“Can’t afford to get fit” is one of the top excuses people give when asked why they don’t exercise. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some easy (and inexpensive) ways to get fit if you are spending more time at home to practice physical distancing:
- Walk. Most people walk 4,000 to 5,000 steps per day anyway. Aim to add more steps in your daily activities.
- Use a pedometer to help keep track of your steps. You can order one online for about $10, or maybe you already have one but haven’t used it in a while.
- Take the stairs every chance you get, even if it’s only one flight.
- Don’t use your children as an excuse not to exercise. Take them along for a walk or run in a stroller, wagon, or on a bike.
- Turn on your radio and dance up a storm for 20 to 30 minutes in the privacy of your own home.
- Use the lowest stair or stairs in your home and create your own step workout.
- Turn your canned goods into weights. Or pour sand or water into empty milk bottles to create weights.
- Grab a chair or the kitchen counter and do some push-ups, squats and leg lifts.
- Pair a favorite TV show with some sit-ups. Just hook your toes under the sofa. Stand up and jog during commercials.
- Got rope? Jump it for a total body workout.
- Go for a walk or just stand by your workstation and stretch for 5 to 10 minutes every hour.
Remember to practice safe physical distancing while exercising outside (stay six feet apart), and wear a face covering to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.