The chances are you’re probably reading this at home, struggling with the effects of lockdown, a whole lot of uncertainty and potentially feeling extremely unmotivated at the same time. The ever changing COVID-19 updates have left many of us unable to cope with daily lifestyle changes, due to social distancing, work procrastination and the unforeseen circumstances of 2020 taking their toll along the way.
Nevertheless, there are ways to work towards building a better morning. With regular exercise having a huge effect on the supply of blood flow to the brain, which is able to boost focus and concentration as a result, and what better way to start the day off right, than with an at-home workout?
Whether you’re a self confessed gym junkie, or a not so keen anti-exerciser enthusiast. We’ve lined up a range of workout ideas to keep you in shape throughout quarantine, and distract you from self isolation sponsored walks to the fridge.
Joe Wicks YouTube Workout
This man is without a doubt paving the way for change when it comes to our working from home schedules. From PE videos to keep the kids moving to full body HIIT workouts, Joe Wicks AKA The Body Coach’s YouTube videos deliver a 30 - 40 minute daily dose of exercise, to leave you feeling energetically satisfied and ready to face another day.
Take Part In A Workout With Someone Via Video Calling
Found your perfect workout routine, but still struggling to gear up the motivation to take part? Just because we’re in lockdown it doesn’t mean you can’t bring your gym bestie along the way with you virtually. Why not share your routine with a friend or family member and take part in the workout together, via the powerful means of video calling? Not only will you enjoy it more by doing it with someone else, it’s also a great way to motivate each other and most importantly stay in touch.
7 Minutes Fitness App
If you prefer to track your fitness progress and set yourself daily targets, try investing in a fitness app on your smartphone. 7 Minute Workout is a free app which combines a range of 30 second HIIT exercises, with accompanied vocal trainers and image direction to illustrate each particular exercise. Designed to be used everyday, each day you complete works towards an achievement medal on the app, and best of all you are allowed to have a rest day without compromising your progress, because let’s face it who doesn’t love a rest day?
Couch To 5K
If you’re more into running or would like to discover your inner runner potential, Couch To 5K is another app worth trying. Designed to help you go from 0 to 5K in 8 weeks, this app devises a combination of short distance walking and running exercises for 30 minutes a day, 3 days a week. Track your progress, the calories you’ve burnt, your workout distance and the overall time you’ve spent with this fitness favourite app, which also lets you listen to your own music while you’re training too. If that wasn’t enough they also have a selection of familiar coaches to keep you going until you reach the finish line.
Dance Like Nobody’s Watching
If your workout attempts don’t go to plan, don’t worry. Stick your favourite music on and dance until your heart’s content! After all half an hour of continuous dancing has been proven to burn anywhere between 200 - 400 calories, and what better way to boost your mood, stay in shape and listen to your favourite music all at the same time!
Words: Stephanie Orr