As we undergo changes in our lifestyles as a result of the COVID-19, Minnesotan’s are finding creative ways to stay active in the midst of local gym closures. The weather lately has been hit and miss in helping this cause, varying from near 60-degree highs to inches of snow. Regardless, we have some great at-home exercising options you can try (and hopefully more spring weather on the way)!
Stick to the Basics
If you do not already own a home weight lifting kit, odds are you will not be able to get one anytime soon as they sold out online fast. But do not lose hope, you can still get some great exercise in by just sticking to the basics (after all, any exercise is better than none at all).
This over decade-old video from Nerd Fitness is a great resource that sums things up in just a couple minutes.
This workout calls for 3 circuits of following
- 20 Bodyweight squats.
- 10 Push-ups.
- 10 Walking lunges (each leg).
- 10 Dumbbell rows (use a milk jug or other weight).
- 15 Second Plank.
- 30 Jumping jacks.
Nothing too complicated here, but it may be easier to use something other than a full jug of milk for a weight. A reusable cloth bag filled with anything heavy can do the job, and make it easier to adjust the weight you are lifting as you see fit.
Some of the Integracare staff have been exercising outside, and even inside, during this time (we’ll have even more photos in a video we have coming up!).
And what we hope to be doing again this summer!
Yoga
Yoga, like a proper fitness program, is something that might be best done in a group with an instructor. But it’s still worth trying some things out for yourself at home. There are plenty of free and paid resources online to show you some basic yoga positions even if you are not very experienced.
And, if you don’t think yoga is your thing, try doing some basic stretches anyways to keep yourself loose around the house.
Get out and walk
It’s a great simple way of exercising. It does not require any special equipment or skills plus there are lots of fun apps you can try for tracking your steps and other statistics. If you have a newer phone, it likely has a built-in pedometer that is always tracking your steps – check out your health or fitness app on your phone to see this cool information!
If you do not have a treadmill to walk on in your home, consider simply walking up and down the stairs. This can prove to be even more effective than just walking on flat ground.
Whatever you decide to do, get creative with it and find activities that you enjoy while helping you stay active!