Life can seem pretty hectic right about now. Eight months ago, a pandemic shut down our usual lives, some of us were thrown into a work from home situation. We had to pull together a makeshift workstation where we hoped we could get some work done. Unfortuantely, others were pushed into furloughs or job lossess that took its toll on us mentally. On top of that many of us have children thrown into the already crazy mix. Luckily, back then school was almost over and we just had to ride it out until the kids could be free to roam about the house and yard during summer break. Summer months focused on creating a better home work environment for ourselves and balancing a few moments with the kids. But then summer ended and we were hit with another curve ball – virtual learning. So we moved from setting up our work spaces to setting virtual learning spaces for the kids. We’re all about a month or so in now, and so far, so good, right?
Well, in the midst of taking care of work and making sure the kids were ready for a new learning experience, we forgot about ourselves. Of course, we’re all wearing our masks and avoiding crowds to the best of our ability, but when was the last time you worked out? When was the last time you took a moment to take care of your health? The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of exercise 5 days per week for adults. Just 30 minutes!!! We can make that happen, right? Some of us scroll through our phone for 30 minutes watching ridiculous cat meme videos without even realizing it. I’m sure we can all spare 30 minutes. But where do you start? How do you start? It’s actually pretty simple. You just start.
Here are 5 tips that you can help you get back to an exercise routine.
1. You don’t have to do 30 minutes all at once!
Have a few minutes in between meetings? Take a few laps up and down the steps. On a non video work call where you just have to listen? Get up and do some squats. Waiting for that dinner pot to boil? Grab some light weights for a few sets of bicep curls and tricep kickbacks. In between your work and the kid’s video learning sessions is a great time to get a quick set of exercises. Pick a few of your favorites and do them throughout the day! You’re guaranteed to get in 30 minutes or more activities each day if you stick with it!
2. Go for a walk during your lunch hour
Instead of chomping down on that burger during your lunch break, take a quick 30 minute walk outdoors. Fall weather is a great time for a walk – not too hot, not too cold! If you have children or pets, take them along. Walking outdoors is also a great mental break for everyone before getting back to work. First thing in the morning or just after work are also great walking times!
3. Virutal PE – join your kids!
It may sound silly, but those virtual PE classes that your children are taking are great! They are up moving and jumping around. And I’m sure your kids would get a kick out of watching you move around with them. It’s a great way to get everyone’s wiggles out and be more focused during the day.
4. Enroll in a virtual exercise class
I’m sure we can all agree that we are exhausted with Zoom, Microsoft Teams or whatever other platform you are using, but virtual exercise classes are a great way to engage with other people outside of your circle in a safe way, have some fun, and get some exercise in. Not sure where to start? Check with your local Physical Therapist as many clinics are offering virtual workout sessions. You can also check with your local gym.
5. When all else fails, consult with a professional
Physical Therapists can be a great resource as you attempt to navigate how to get back to a fitness program. Forever Fit Physical Therapy & Wellness offers a fitness evaluation that can help you figure out your strength and weakness to help you get back on track to a more fit you!