Finding the motivation to keep active during a lockdown can be difficult especially with the latest restrictions on gyms, playgrounds, skateparks and outdoor equipment. Keeping active is important for both physical and mental health but lockdown fatigue is real and the urge to stay home curled up on the couch reading a good book or binge watching the latest show is strong.
Here are 10 ways to keep active during a lockdown:
#1: Go for a walk
If you live in Melbourne like me it can be hard to find the motivation to head outside and go for a walk, especially with the grey storm clouds that are constantly hanging in the sky. None the less, chuck on your fitness leggings, maybe a raincoat, and head outside for a walk. The current restrictions in Victoria limit outdoor exercise to just 2 hours daily within 5 km of your home so best make the most of the time you have. If you are lucky enough to have a beautiful walking track nearby then utilise it, if not then walk around your local park, the beach, or even just around the block. Get the whole family involved too whether that be your kids, your dogs, a cat - because believe me they too have lockdown fatigue and getting some fresh air can do wonders for your mental health. If you need some extra motivation go online and buy yourself some new activewear to show off. I recently purchased some shapewear leggings from Emamaco and they are too good to wear on the couch.
Wearing the Emamaco Shaper Move Leggings, Long Line Crop and High Tech Jumpers
#2: Its time to bounce
If you have kids at home theres a good chance that you have a trampoline sitting in the backyard. Jumping on a trampoline is an amazing low-impact exercise that gets the heart racing and is a fun way to keep active at home. Research shows that jumping on a trampoline can have a positive effect on bone health and could improve bone density and strength. So if you have access to a trampoline then its time to bounce!
Wearing the #3: Dance party
#4: Join an online class
With the current gym closures it can be hard to get the same quality workout at home that you would at a gym. A lot of gyms and personal trainers are offering online classes that you can do in your living room. You won't have access to the same equipment but you can still work up a sweat and as a bonus you will be supporting a local business. If you don't want to keep to a schedule or you have kids at home that make online classes impossible to focus on then another great option is searching for fitness videos on YouTube. I have completed many late night workouts in my Emamaco leggings while my kids were asleep. If you have an opportunity to be active then embrace it, even if its 10 o'clock at night.
The Mama Physio who runs fantastic online classes and is wearing the Emamaco Snow Jumper
#5: Get yourself some wheels
Im not sure if I am late to the party but adult scooters are a thing and they are amazing. This is another activity your can do with your kids or even by yourself. It doesn't have to be a scooter, it can be skateboard or a bike, whatever gets you out of the house and moving. Currently skateparks are closed but that doesn't stop you from riding around your streets or even just in your driveway or backyard. Grab your helmet and get moving This is a great alternative to a walk or run and its something fun the whole family.
#6: Time to pull those weeds
If you are like me and you have avoided doing the gardening during the winter months there is no better time than lockdown to get out into the garden and start pulling those weeds. Spring is around the corner so while we are under stay at home orders we may as well get outside and get the backyard ready for those family bbq lunches we are all hanging out for. Mow the lawn, pulls the weeds, trim the hedges, plant some new flowers, do whatever it is you do in your garden to make it look beautiful. You will be keeping active whilst getting some fresh air.
#7: Go and play
Our kids and pets are also feeling the strain from these constant lockdowns and restrictions. And whilst we have been separated from family and friends for far too long these lockdowns have given us a rare opportunity to spend more time than ever with those who live in our home. So lets make the most of it. Play with your kids. Play with your pets. Nothing brings a smile to my face more than spending time with my kids and dogs and seeing them enjoy themselves. Kick a ball, run around the backyard, blow some bubbles, have a tea party in the cubby house, get messy. No matter how you play, you will be keeping active whilst keeping your mind healthy as well.
@sliang95 in Emamaco Pet Hair Free Leggings and Crop top
#8: Try some yoga
The benefits of yoga have been well documented and if you have never tried it then during lockdown is a great time to give it a go. Yoga is great for both mental and physical health. It is an exercise that doesn't require a membership or expensive equipment and be performed anywhere you feel comfortable. Online there are a number of videos to help you get started or if you wanted some extra help there are a number of yoga teachers who run online classes. Grab your yoga leggings and give it a go.
Wearing the Emamaco Shaper Move Leggings and Cropped Sweat Jumper
#9: Change positions
If you are one of the many people working from home during this lockdown then something as simple as changing your position regularly can be a great way to keep active and avoid postural injuries. As regularly as you like get up and change positions. Whether it be changing workstations, getting up and doing some squats or maybe some pushups if you are game, or even jogging on the spot. Anything that gets you up and active even if its just for a few minutes.
#10: Keep your mind healthy
Keeping your mind healthy and active is just as important as keeping your body active. The stress and anxiety of these constant lockdowns has affected all of us and finding ways to exercise the mind is more important than ever with screen time taking over our lives. Learning a new skill, keeping in contact with family and friends, switching off your devices and being present in your life are all ways of keeping your mind healthy. Don't underestimate the power of keeping your mind happy and healthy.
No matter how you decide to keep active please remember lockdown isn't forever, we will get through this. Stay active, keep your mind and body healthy, keep in touch with loved ones and have fun!!