Whether you’re a gym devotee or someone who dabbles in exercise here and there, it’s safe to say that being cooped up at home can make you crave some movement. Get with your partner and stay fit together as we all weather this crazy situation. Your body—and your state of mind—will thank you for putting in the effort.
Recreate the Gym Class Experience
If you’re into HIIT, spin classes, strength training and all those great offerings you used to take advantage of at your local gym, you may feel a little bummed out right now. Luckily, there are a number of great online resources that you and your partner can take advantage of. The Peloton app, for instance, is offering a 90-day free trial for all of its pre-recorded classes, which includes five-to 45-minute classes for spinning, running, cardio and more. (You can also find almost any kind of fitness class you love on YouTube for free.) Take classes together and encourage each other to keep going when things gets tough.
Do Yoga
Maybe you’re missing your mat and mourning the fact that your fave studio is closed. Check to see if your local studio or teachers are offering video classes—many have mobilized to create virtual platforms that you can support. (If not, CorePower Yoga On Demand offers a monthly online membership with all kinds of classes for every level of yogi.) Doing yoga together at home will not only make for a great workout, it will also give you a chance to practice presence and mindfulness to help you through these unusual times.
Get Creative with Your Equipment
No weights? No problem. You can swap in cans of soup, books, bags of rice, or gallons of milk instead of using dumbbells or kettle bells for your strength workouts. Have fun with it by trying different household items—you’ll make each other laugh by pumping iron with whatever is in your pantry. If you have a baby at home, you can even use your little one as part of your workout, as popular YouTube videos have demonstrated.
Challenge Each Other to Get Out of Chores
Stay active with short fitness challenges. See who can do the most pushups, jumping jacks, sit-ups, squats—any exercise you can think of—in 60 seconds. Whoever wins doesn’t have to do the dishes that night. These little competitions will infuse some lightness into your everyday life at home and get your heart rate up at the same time. When you run out of moves you already know, learn some new ones online or make up your own.
Walk Your Dog (Or Just Yourselves)
Getting some fresh air is good for the mind, body and spirit. If you’re healthy, take a walk around the block, being mindful to keep a safe distance from other people. Even just a quick lap can get your blood pumping and boost your mood if you’re feeling a little stir crazy. If you’re craving some speed, you can run intervals by jogging on the sidewalk and walking when you cross the street. Your furry friend, if you have one, will appreciate the extra exercise, too.
Keep fit and have fun together as our friends, the LA couple, have demonstrated over the past few weeks.
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