COVID-19 is affecting our lives, and it doesn't seem like it will end anytime soon with a resurgence of cases. But have you ever thought about doing some beneficial exercise at home that doesn't have to be strenuous?
Exercise is important
WHY exercise is important? WHO has advised us all to stay physically active during lockdown and isolation. Exercise and health are closely related. The more active you are, the less likely you are to get sick. In fact, exercise is thought to reduce the likelihood of contracting infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, the flu) and even non-communicable diseases (such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes).
Skipping rope
Skipping rope is one of the most underrated types of exercise—it may even be more effective than other forms of cardio. In fact, a 2013 study was published in Research Quarterly: American Association for Health. Physical Education and Recreation found that college men who spent 10 minutes of jumping rope daily for six weeks improved their cardiovascular fitness compared with college men who spent 30 minutes jogging.
Browse YouTube
Whether you’re into yoga, Zumba, cardio workouts or strength training, there is a video ready for you. Many online fitness platforms are also offering free or discounted memberships right now. Just remember to change your workout routine from time to time to keep things interesting.
Focus on bodyweight movements
Use this valuable time to incorporate bodyweight exercises into your workouts. It is advisable that you can try pushups, squats, lunges, planks and burpees. Pick a few different movements and create a circuit workout by completing as many reps of that one movement, take it easy, do not force yourself. Then rest for a minute and continue on to the next moment. Do this continuously for 15 to 20 minutes.
Make the most of what's around your home
When it comes to working out at home, Lawton encourages creativity. Run up and down the stairs in the basement, do a triceps workout with a chair, or grab a can of soup or a gallon of water as a weight. Even jumping over a shoe box a few times can be a quick burst of cardio.
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