How to Work Out Safely in the Era of COVID-19

You’re not alone if your ability to follow through on exercise recommendations has taken a back seat in the “new normal” of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Despite the ways everyday life has changed, you don’t have to sacrifice your commitment to strengthen your physical and mental well-being. A few simple precautions can help you keep up with your fitness routines and even start new ones while staying safe. 

Daily workouts contribute significantly to better physical and mental health. You need 150 minutes of a moderate-intensity activity each week to reap the health benefits of exercise. 

Exercise is also a key component of the weight-loss programs at NuvidaRx Weight Loss in Tallahassee, Florida. Our weight-loss specialists encourage you to participate in an exercise regimen as part of your journey toward a healthier lifestyle and ideal weight.

Find out how you can accomplish your wellness goals while working out safely in the era of COVID-19.

Ask about new gym protocols and follow them

If you prefer to work out at a gym or fitness center, follow the guidelines to reduce your risk of getting sick. Ask about the procedures your gym has established to allow everyone to exercise safely.

Confirm that your gym uses CDC-recommended cleaning and disinfecting procedures. You should be assured that the facility and equipment are being cleaned regularly using the appropriate protocol.

To minimize the risk of spreading infection, your gym may require that you reserve a block of time to work out so that there aren’t too many people there at once. Upon arrival, your facility may take your temperature before you enter the building and/or request that you wear a face mask while working out.

Sanitize properly and maintain social distance

At the gym, follow these safety precautions:

• Ensure that the equipment is wiped down between uses
• Don’t share equipment that can’t be cleaned, sanitized, or disinfected between uses
• Maintain social distance of at least 6 feet in indoor areas 
• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after using gym equipment
• Bring clean towels to avoid wiping your face with your bare hands
• Use a clean towel to cover benches or seats

Work out at home

Going to the gym isn’t the best option for everyone. 

If you are 65 or older, have a serious underlying condition such as heart or lung disease or diabetes, or are immunocompromised, you have a higher risk of hospitalization and serious complications if you become infected with COVID-19. 

Your physician may advise that you avoid gyms. Or, perhaps you’re healthy but just not comfortable with the risk of working out with others yet. You don’t have to compromise your overall wellness to exercise. 

Try fitness videos and classes

It’s possible to get a results-oriented workout at home by watching a fitness video or subscribing to a streaming service. 

These services offer a wide variety of prerecorded classes, which allows you to work out for specific goals such as strength, flexibility, or weight loss on different days.

Attend a live online class

If you prefer a live class, check out local fitness studios that provide this option. For individual attention without going to the gym, sign on with a personal trainer who offers virtual sessions customized to your needs. Committing to a virtual class can provide the same type of accountability as signing up for a class at the gym. 

Remember to check with your physician before beginning an exercise program. To reduce your risk of injury, warm up and stretch before working out. Start out slow to ensure you’re using proper form.

Consider outdoor alternatives

You don’t have to follow a traditional fitness program to get an effective workout. Take advantage of the opportunity to get moving in new ways that don’t put you at risk of COVID-19 infection.

Outdoor exercises such as walking, jogging, bicycling, and hiking can provide a much-needed change of scenery while you accomplish your fitness goals. These activities also allow you to include friends or family members with whom you may not be able to visit indoors. 

Always wear appropriate shoes and safety equipment to reduce your risk of falls or injuries, especially if you’re new to the activity.

Get back into the routine

Find out more about ways to work out safely in the era of COVID-19 to get the best results from your exercise program. Schedule an appointment online or call our office today at 850-290-7307.