Due to the coronavirus outbreak, everyone is spending a lot more time at home.
This could affect the amount of physical activity you are able to do, which in turn could impact on how you’re feeling.
It’s easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of behaviour when you’re stuck indoors, but you don’t have to.
You can still stay active, as the current guidance states that you can leave your house for exercise once a day, however it’s important that, if you do this, you keep a social distance of two metres from anyone who does not live in your home.
Activities you can do outside
Remember if you do go out, you must stay two metres away from other people and wash your hands once you return.
Going out for exercise should not be used as an opportunity to see friends.
Here are some examples of the sort of exercises you can do outside of your house, but it’s important that any activity you do lasts up to an hour in length and that whatever you do is either on your own or ONLY with people/family that you currently live with:
- Going for a walk
- Going for a bike ride
- Going for a jog or run (if you have never done this before, why not download a free app called Couch to 5k which helps build up your ability to jog or run)
Activities you can do at home
While it’s good to get some fresh air, there are lots of exercises that can be done at home to help keep you physically active.
Below are some online resources that you can access to help keep you active:
Sport England have developed a campaign called ‘#StayInWorkOut’ which has lots of tips and advise on how to exercise at home.
Joe Wicks, The Body Coach has a number of videos you can access on YouTube on how to stay fit at home. He is also doing a daily 30 minute PE class (PE with Joe).
Yoga Sports England recommend a YouTube Channel called ‘Yoga with Adriene’ which is another way to stay active, and also helps with mindfulness
The NHS website has lots of 10 minute exercises you can do without the use of the gym.
There are other ways that you can get some exercise without using online resources. For example, helping out with housework or gardening can help to keep you active and feeling good too.
How to get help
If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your public health nurse.
