

As stay-at-home orders are starting to ease after a near global shutdown to combat the spread of COVID-19, people everywhere are wondering how to regain some semblance of normalcy in their lives. Based on the major shift in daily routines, fitness has been negatively impacted around the world. With society slowly reopening and summer starting to arrive, now is the ideal moment to consider alternative approaches to exercise in this uncertain new era. For the most part, gyms are still barricaded, so it’s important to find more unconventional methods for getting a solid workout. Thus, here are a few tips to help you get back in shape post-pandemic:
1. Take Advantage of Public Parks
With the widespread practice of social distancing still mostly in effect, a lot of people don’t realize that many parks are actually open for business. As Slate has detailed, the trails are reported to be much emptier than usual, so this is a great time to go for a jog or start a cycling hobby. Hiking is great for your health as well. As a bonus, it’s easy to maintain the publicly advised six-foot distance from others when you have the expansive wilderness laid out in front of you.
2. Try Visiting the Trampoline Park
Irreverent forms of exercise will soon be available again as recreational facilities like trampoline parks start reopening to the public. These fun venues offer plenty of engaging workout options and fitness programs. It also feels amazing to bounce around with abandon after being cooped up for several weeks. While group participation might be relatively limited moving forward, there are still countless ways to lose weight and gain muscle while going solo. With relatively low traffic, these places are perfect for anyone trying to get active again.
3. Conduct Do-It-Yourself Home Renovations
If you have a maintenance project or reconstruction idea that has been on your mind, then it may be wise to utilize the extra time around the house in a productive fashion. In addition to being economically smart, one key advantage of performing physical labor is the built-in workout that comes with it. Whether it’s building, painting or cleaning, you are bound to enjoy the visual results of your home makeover endeavors on multiple levels. Just don’t forget your mask when you run to the hardware store.
4. Run a Self-Quarantined Boot Camp
You can unlock the physique you’re seeking without even having to leave home, which is welcome news for anyone still under orders to shelter in place. Remember, push-ups and sit-ups can work wonders for establishing a sturdy core. A pull-up bar can usher major results for the upper body. With a little discipline, you can take exercise matters into your own hands by establishing a consistent regimen. Online workout videos can replicate the group-oriented atmosphere while granting highly specified instruction and guidance.
5. Practice Yoga and Martial Arts
Speaking of pre-recorded exercise lessons, why not branch out into a whole new fitness trade? Yoga is well-known for increasing physical flexibility, but the practice actually has similar benefits for the mind. These stress-relieving routines can range from relaxed to intensive, so there is a series of helpful stretches available for everyone. Meanwhile, taking up martial arts is an excellent way to build strength and discipline alike. For maximum results, supplement the routines with weight-lifting.
6. Make Love
If you are lucky enough to have a partner in isolation with you, then consider making an effort to reconnect on an intimate level. A romp in the hay can give a great cardio boost while alleviating some of the coronavirus anxiety that we all have been facing. If you have to burn off some pesky calories, then this is probably the most pleasurable way to get the task done. Although guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control discourage the formation of new relationships, existing connections should be thoroughly enjoyed under the conditions of sequestered cohabitation.
Final Thoughts
The outside world is uncertain right now, so it’s best to cultivate a degree of control over our own inner worlds. Organizing a steady fitness plan can accomplish this aim brilliantly while enshrining a sense of personal purpose during these confused times.