Having a change in our daily routines is a surefire way to throw us all for a loop. We’re all in the same boat, wondering how to continue with our active lifestyle while still maintaining the safety of our health and others. While these measures, such as social distancing, is imperative right now, don’t let yourself fall into a sedentary lifestyle.
Staying Active While at Home
Vista Grande Villa is committed to helping you find ways to stay active. We’ve put together a list of ideas you can try from home, with no expensive exercise equipment needed!
Stretching: Simply moving your muscles can help your body function properly and maintain flexibility, even as you age. Try to incorporate stretching into your daily routine, whether it be a full stretch prior to exercising or a few minutes in the morning when you first wake up.
Online Exercise Videos: With many gyms and fitness centers closed right now, many are offering free online exercise classes, either on YouTube or even being streamed on Facebook. Whether you’re into yoga, Pilates, or even light cardio, you’ll be able to find something for your fitness level. Search for an exercise program that matches your interests and abilities you can do at home. We found this exercise video on YouTube you may enjoy.
Use the Stairs: If you have access to a set of stairs, you’re in luck. Using the stairs at your own pace is a great way to get your heart pumping. Or, on a nice day outside, try walking or running up a hill or visit your local high school football stadium to walk up and down the bleacher steps.
Keep Moving While Watching T.V.: Walking in place while you’re enjoying your favorite show offers an opportunity for your body to move. To get your heart pumping even more, do more dynamic workouts, like jumping jacks and crunches, on commercial breaks.
Use Household Items for Weights: Expensive workout equipment isn’t necessary. Find alternatives to weights with common household items. Soup cans, water bottles or laundry detergent jugs can act as weights, while an old towel may be used as a resistance band. Remember to only use what is appropriate for your level of fitness.
Chair Yoga: All you need is a chair for this activity! Chair yoga offers a variety of poses all while sitting in or standing next to a chair. This form of yoga offers a multitude of health benefits similar to traditional yoga, including reduced stress, improved circulation and loosened muscles. You can start with a video like this one.
Clean Your Home: Cleaning gets you on your feet and moving around, getting your blood pumping and helping you burn calories. You also use a surprising amount of muscle groups while vacuuming, wiping down counters and straightening up, giving your whole body a much-needed workout while you clean. The bonus part is, you get your workout in AND have a clean house afterwards!
Dance, Dance, Dance: Create your own dance party in your living room! Put on your favorite music and dance like nobody is watching. You can even use music streaming apps such as Pandora, Amazon Music, and Spotify. Dancing burns about 200 calories for every half hour, offering a fun way to get your exercise in. It’s also known to lift your spirits!
Get Some Fresh Air: A simple stroll around your neighborhood will not only do wonders for your cardiovascular health, but getting outside will boost your mood too. Waving and smiling to your neighbors is another added bonus!
What we are all experiencing right now is not our normal, there are ways to make the best of our situation from the comfort of our own homes. So, let’s commit to get up and get moving to stay healthy!
Be sure to check with your physician before exercising.