The coronavirus pandemic has interrupted daily life as we know it for most. This is especially true when it comes to exercise. In speaking with many of my bariatric surgery patients over the past few weeks, one thing stands out — most have been less active than usual during the lockdown. Many people exercise in a gym, attend workout classes, work with a trainer, walk/run in a local park, etc. These routines have been disrupted. While some states are putting forth plans to end the lockdown over the next several weeks, I think it’s safe to say that things will not return to “normal” as soon as the lockdown ends.

In addition to the various health benefits and immune boosting qualities of exercise mentioned in our earlier blog post, exercise is also a great way to deal with the stress and psychological issues associated with being socially isolated for an extended period of time. Exercise helps reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and it increases circulating endorphins, or “feel good” hormones.

Even if you’re stuck at home, there are ways to stay active and some of these require very little or no equipment. Activities such as walking briskly around the house, going up and down the stairs, dancing to your favorite music are a good and simple start if you have been quite sedentary lately. Doing yoga, running or jogging outside, and virtual fitness classes (streaming or live) are great options also. Speaking of virtual fitness classes, Virginia Hospital Center offers an excellent selection of classes ranging from low-impact options to family fitness to yoga for all levels. All of these classes are offered online on Zoom and typically run in 6-week sessions. Really, any activity that raises your heart rate & makes you break a sweat is good. Start off with a time interval and pace that is comfortable for you. Schedule a time within your day and stick to it. Have an accountability partner, someone that is supportive of your goals. This could be a friend, spouse/partner, family member, or co-worker. If you live alone, a virtual accountability partner via Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, telephone or text is a great option. When it comes to exercise, consistency is the key.

Below are some helpful links to get you started:

• How to Exercise at Home During Coronavirus Outbreak

• How to Exercise at Home and Actually Like It

• Tips For Exercising At Home While You're Staying At Home

• An efficient (and thrifty) way to exercise at home

• Home exercise: The eight exercises you can do while stuck in lockdown

• 10-minute home cardio workout

• Virginia Hospital Center Spring 2020 - Fitness & Healthy Lifestyle Classes

Great list of FREE Work Out Apps

• 11 Free Fitness Apps That Will Help You Work Out When Your Living Room Is Your Gym

Happy Exercising!

- CSD