Cheryl Fenton
September 16, 2020 | 12:21 PM
With the coronavirus pandemic putting a damper on everyone’s routines, keeping an active, healthy schedule can be a struggle. Packed fitness classes have been sent packing, and in-person gym sessions are now replaced by Instagram Live workouts in the living room.
For a little guidance on staying sane and in shape right now, we reached out to some of Boston’s top fitness pros for their tips on how to get moving and practice self-care. From mindful breathing to breaking a sweat in a virtual class, their suggestions will leave you ready to finish out 2020 strong.
1. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise. Now more than ever, consistent exercise is important! It can reduce stress and anxiety, but also prevent weight gain. It’s normal to feel stir-crazy and also less motivated to exercise since your routine has changed. Ways to safely engage in physical activity include exercising at home, alongside family members, safely going outside, taking a virtual class, or setting exercise goals. — Kenny Vertus, owner, Unrivaled Performance, and personal trainer
2. Monitor yourself. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Try to recognize the signs and symptoms for when you’re not feeling OK. Allow yourself to experience your emotions without judgment. If you feel that you’re in the house too long, go outside and take a walk. Establish a routine that’s going to keep you active while also easing your emotions. — Kenny Vertus, owner, Unrivaled Performance, and personal trainer
3. Use your breath as an anchor. The breath is a powerful tool for easing the anxiety spiral. One simple go-to technique is called Equal Breathing, which involves matching your inhalation and exhalation. Start with a four-count and gradually increase. The counting, linked to the flow of breath, really helps create a sense of steadiness. — Rebecca Pacheco, founder, OmGal
4. Get moving in 10- to 20-minute increments throughout the day. Incorporate small movement breaks throughout the day, perhaps right before lunch or while you’re waiting for another meeting to start. I find something as simple as stretching can sharpen my mind, release tension in my body, and help break up my day. — Christie Wang, certified Pilates instructor, PMA-CPT, @fitwithchristie
5. Get some “me” time. Self-care looks different on everyone, but it’s so important to allot at least 30 minutes of “you” time each day. This could be a workout, meditation, a glass of wine after a long day — something that doesn’t involve social media or checking e-mails. — Kelly Whittaker, Boston senior instructor, Barry’s Bootcamp
6. Join a fit community. Find a wellness program or fitness class you genuinely enjoy that provides routine and also has a community component. Half the battle of staying well is showing up for classes/programs, so enjoying a program is really important. This is a lonely time to begin with, so the community component will help you feel supported and keep you accountable. — Eliza Shiraz, founder, Kick It By Eliza
7. Rotate your surroundings. It’s important to change your physical space in a remote world. We’re used to commuting to and from work, going to group fitness classes, etc. Today, a lot of people are living where they work. Get outside and breathe fresh air every day. Utilize outdoor spaces while the weather is still nice. Move your body in a way that feels good for you, in a space that’s bigger than your living room while listening to your favorite playlist, podcast, or audio book. — Erin Lindsay, master instructor, Soul Cycle; former Radio City Rockette
8. Be around supportive people. We’re living through an exceptionally important time in history right now. It’s been traumatic, exhilarating, and tiring all at once. Keep your crew close and remind yourself everyday that you deserve to be here. This time is meant to push us but not break us. — Heather White, CEO/founder and Sculpt instructor, TRILLFIT
Whatever activity keeps you moving, do it as part of the Fall Fitness Challenge.
Participating from anywhere in the world keeps you living well while donating to charity. You’ll have the chance to win amazing prizes, including a Peloton bike.
Join the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Fall Fitness Challenge, powered by Boston.com.
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September 16, 2020 at 11:21PM
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8 ways to get fit, practice self-care, and blow off steam right now - Boston.com
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