Free Resources to Stay Fit during Coronavirus Isolation

Life is a little different these days. People are being asked to socially distance themselves at the minimum to shelter in place at the maximum. Some people are making the personal choice to self isolate due to either exposure or being in the vulnerable categories. We as a family are doing our best to self isolate. In the last few days, I’ve run two errands that HAD to be done (can’t let the animals starve…), but mostly my outside time has been running or walking the quiet streets of my neighborhood. In fact, I have a daily checklist that includes both getting in a workout and getting 20 minutes of outdoor time. (Yes, I’m that person who has to have checklists and to do lists or I’ll spend this whole time doing nothing.)

I’m a firm believer in exercise as a coping mechanism. While it obviously helps keep you physically healthy, there are lots of studies that show it helps keep you mentally healthy. In this stressful time, if nothing else, it helps with stress release. Besides going for a walk, run, or bike ride (all of which are currently ok), I’ve listed some free resources that you can use at home. I’ll continue to add as I come across more.

• Peloton App: The Peloton App is currently free for the next 90 days. You have to download the app and sign up through there in order to get the free option. From what I’ve seen, there are workouts for everything from an exercise bike to running to yoga. So far I have not checked it out personally as I have a paid program I use, but I’ve heard nothing but good. 
• Fitness Protection Program – QuaranTeam – This Facebook group, led by Mary-Katherine, will offer workouts as well as anxiety tips, breathing exercises, and options for people who are in need of modifications.
• CorePower Yoga is offering free classes for the month. Lots of videos up on their site.
• Another yoga option is YouTube – I’ve heard great things about Yoga with Adrienne!
• Various bloggers have been sharing at home work outs. Check out this upper body workout from Relentless Forward Commotion or the huge list of workouts at the bottom of Confessions of a Runner Mother.
• Also check out Headspace and Calm for meditations to help you with the mental health side of the puzzle.
• The YMCA has some free video workouts for everything from barre to Tai Chee.

I know this time is stressful for most of us and we all have a lot of responsibilities, but you can’t pour from an empty glass. Give yourself grace, but also try to get some physical activity in. Your mind and body will thank you.