How and why do we exercise in today’s quarantine world?
Gyms are closed and the weather outside is not looking good either. Then how do we find the motivation to work out, and what kind of routines are possible to do at home?
Unless you’re a millionaire, the chances of you having a gym in your overpriced, rented apartment is slim. As sad as that sounds, let’s hope once you graduate, you’ll find a well-paying job and end up with your own private gym (if you ask me it’s not likely, but that sounds good, eh?).
Even if this doesn’t happen, years later you can still look back at this article about exercising at home. In my experience the hardest part of it all is taking that first step, and getting started. I’m a huge advocate of gyms, when they are open, that is. It’s a whole different vibe to go somewhere to train, and the motivation is different too, since one of the most driving factors as a student is that you already paid for it. Meanwhile, at home, I have this little voice in my head saying that here the only thing I paid for is the crisps and chocolate in the cupboard.
Anyways, enough talking, let’s jump right into it. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing a shorter or longer workout, right after you’ll feel better, maybe you’ll even start studying (exam period is creeping up on us, so better start). Working out elevates our mood, relieves stress and also helps with losing weight.
The list of activities we can do outside is endless, for example running, cycling, hiking or just simply walking. While doing so, don’t forget to layer properly – after all, it’s winter time.
The exercises at home can be simple too, many of them don’t require any equipment. The internet is a great source for routines and programs, there are numerous apps and online streaming services filled to the brim with information.
For example, Cyberobics is an app where you can join live fitness classes from your apartment, just set your level and you’re ready to go. Another great source is YouTube, you can simply search for routines and follow along. You can also create your own workout plan, here are some ideas:
- squats (you can alternate between jumping up from a squat position, or burpees – aka place the palms of your hands on the floor in front of your feet, jump back into a push-up position, in some cases complete one push-up, return to the squat position, and then jump up into the air while extending the arms over your head)
- lunges
- push-ups
- plank or side plank (at least this slows down time till exams)
- “superman”
- sit-ups, crunches
- leg raises
- Russian twist
- jumping jack
- mountain climber
- bicycle
It helps a lot to have a watch or phone nearby to time yourself. Another way to keep track is to try rounds, you just have to keep track of which number you are on.
You can also practice all these exercises with weights. It might be smart to buy a yoga mat, or other tools like kettlebells, jumping ropes or medicine balls. It’s extremely important to step away from the screen while doing online, or hybrid education. Doing sports is a good way to do so. So if you’re able to, do at least 15 minutes of exercise daily. It’s also important to not forget to hydrate, and try to include vegetables and fruits in your diet.
To finish off, here’s a quick reminder: you don’t have to be skinny to be pretty – you’re perfect as you are, don’t try to change yourself for others. Workout because you love your body, not because you hate it.