As you may have seen in the quarantine community physical distancing workout like this one in Spain, people are eager to feel connected with each other and are missing their workout time. Diving into May, 2020 gyms in our area remain closed due to the Stay at Home order in response to the coronavirus pandemic. However, limiting our social contact shouldn’t also include limiting our activity. With many of the local trails also off limits, we’ve dug up some ways you can access exercise classes online and from your TV so you can stay strong and healthy while in isolation.
On Demand
If you are an Xfinity customer, check out the free videos available On Demand. To use the speak feature on your remote you can simply say, “Fitness”. Otherwise press On Demand and scroll down for the exercise selections. Often they offer samples of premium channels so you can try out a few options for free. In addition, there are a myriad of free workouts that change frequently, ranging from 10 minute focused bursts of intense exercise, to dance, strength training, yoga, cardio, pilates, barre, and more.
Apps
For a variety of yoga sessions, download Down Dog. There is a selection of free options as well as an annual membership if you’re interested. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Down Dog, Yoga for Beginners, HIIT, Band 7 Minute Workout are completely free for new users until June 1st (no credit card required). ClassPass is another app that offers versatility and convenience. The idea is that you can join any local, or not so local, class even when you can’t be there. There is a free database of digital classes you can join anytime. If instructors offer it, you can pay as you go for livestream classes in real time. During COVID-19, ClassPass is giving 100% of livestream proceeds directly to instructors to help support their work.
There are dozens, if not hundreds, of other apps that are specific or general in terms of exercise options. Head to your Apple or Google Store to search for offerings that appeal to your interests and abilities. Most offer at least a 7-day free trial. Just be sure to set up a reminder to cancel if you want to avoid being charged.
Stream it
Your Smart TV and computer are valid sources for a great workout. There is a seemingly endless list of streaming options for every type of exercise. Daily Burn is one popular option with a one month free trial so you can get a new 30-minute routine each day of the week, as well as access to over 1,000 cardio, yoga, dance, pilates, and other workouts. Hint: If you have a smart TV you can stream many exercises directly (meaning you can watch them anytime). However, if you can only get them on your computer, use a universal HDMI cord to connect the stream from your computer and transfer it onto your TV for more convenient viewing during your workout.
DVDs and VHSs
If you don’t have access to the newest gadgets, apps, and streaming devices, a reliable old-school option of DVDs and even VHS tapes works great. If you don’t have any, ask around and borrow from a friend or neighbor.
Get Outside
Of course, a good old-fashioned walk or run, bike ride, skateboard adventure, or roller blade excursion are also fabulous ways to take in the fresh air while working your body. Get outside as often as you can. Take the dogs with you or chase the kids on their scooters. Pump up the basketball for a family game of bump, put up the volleyball net, or dust off the ping pong table. Remember that movement is the key, so mix it up, keep it interesting, and have fun!