Exercise During A Pandemic—Back to the Basics

It’s probably for the best to avoid gyms, yoga studios, community swimming pools, or anything of that sort during the unprecedented time of COVID-19—especially for those over age 60, and those who are immunocompromised. And to be honest, these institutions are likely already closed, will close soon, or are very limited in use.

But, a pandemic is not the time to give up on exercise whatsoever. In fact, it’s a major component of keeping us healthy! So, how can we exercise while safely keeping our social distances and being COVID-19 cautious?

The answer is in the basics.

Walking, hiking, running, cycling, climbing stairs, or YouTubing home workouts (all while keeping a safe social distance).

A certified trainer from Texas D’Juan Woods says it’s not the time to stop working out, “but a great time to do some workouts at home. Workouts that don’t use any equipment and you can incorporate the entire family into,” --NBCDFW.

“Exercise helps strengthen the lymphatic system. That’s where our immune cells circulate and lowers levels of stress hormones. Effectively managing stress levels keeps our immune system running strong,” Woods said.

It’s okay that your exercise routine doesn’t look the same as it usually does without a pandemic circling us. That is to be expected. Just focus on what you can do and make the best of it.

Here are some YouTube videos to get you started:

Try a quick 20-minute full body workout, no equipment needed.

A yoga session can move your body and relieve some stress. This one can be made into a 30 Days of Yoga guide, or just mix and match.

Or, enjoy a flashback with Jane Fonda. Get your jazzercise on!

The Muscles for Myeloma 20 minute Fitness Challenge has been joined by over 200 myeloma patients who have already logged over 52,231 minutes of exercise since March 1. Join us to help us reach 80,000 in total minutes! Prizes for patients and caregivers will be given in multiple categories.

Join the Muscles for Myeloma Fitness Challenge

Thanks to our Muscles for Myeloma sponsors: