It been over two weeks since all of our lives were upended by the COVID-19 Pandemic. With the closure of schools, cancellation of sports seasons, and Stay Home Save Lives, it seems harder to stay active. However, it is important that all of us, young and old, make a commitment to stay active, both physically and mentally, during this time of social distancing and home quarantine.
How Much Activity Should You Get
Whether you are a high school athlete or an adult working from home, it is important to find ways to maintain your activity level. Staying fit will reduce your risk of injury once you do return to sports and normal physical pursuits. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that all adults get at least 30-60 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio exercise 5 days a week, as well as 2-3 days per week of strength training.
Best Ways to Stay Active
In spite of the Stay at Home order, it is still okay and encouraged that you get outside and go for walks and runs. By staying in your own neighborhood, and maintaining proper social distancing, you can easily meet the recommendations for cardio exercise. In addition, walking and running are great ways to escape the monotony of indoor life while helping to relieve stress and anxiety. Admittedly, we can all benefit from that in these stressful times. Find ways to get outside and be active, whether it is in your backyard or in your neighborhood. It is crucial to maintaining physical and mental health during these uncertain times.
Share With Us
What are you doing to stay active, healthy, and maintain your fitness during this time? Please share, and feel free to send us any questions you may have about tips to stay healthy. We will do our best to answer your questions in upcoming blog articles!
Written by: Stuart Schmidt, MS, ATC, CSCS athletic trainer supervisor for The Center Foundation in Bend, OR. Learn more about Stuart HERE.
The Center Foundation places dedicated athletic trainers in local high schools to provide sports medicine services to young athletes at no charge to the students or their families. Learn more about our work HERE.