It’s so easy to do nothing.

At the moment Covid-19 has stranded us in our houses with nothing to do and nowhere to go. I am the first to admit that I am a lazy so and so by nature. I could sleep all day, eat nothing but snacks and not bat an eye!

However, I recognise that staying active is so important for both our physical and mental health. I took it upon myself to have that much needed glow-up and emerge from lockdown a far more productive and motivated version of myself. So, I’ve put together some thoughts on how I’ve been trying to stay active.

A quick workout is a handy study break. Whether it be following an online video or setting up an at home circuit. It has felt good to take active breaks and have actually found studying is far easier too. Anybody can find a workout that works for them. The NHS has specialised workouts on their website for those with mobility issues and also for wheelchair users. Remember the internet is your friend, there are hundreds of videos, blogs and Instagram accounts which upload workouts that require zero equipment and are suitable for beginners.

Due to the virus, a number of online subscription services have become free. You can find yoga or running apps which have now released their premium content for free. Take advantage of the allowance to leave your home for one form of exercise a day. Even if you live in an urban area, a walk around the block to give you fresh air and vitamin D will make you feel refreshed.

Be that as it may staying active isn’t just about a tough workout. It’s about small changes such as running up the stairs rather than walking or ensuring you don’t sit still in one position for so long. Even taking part in the daily fitness challenges such as 30 sit ups a day or five-minute plank a day would make a world of difference.

When you’re at home it is also very easy to forget to drink enough, and a key part to staying active is ensuring that you stay well hydrated. I’ve found more often than not I have wasted snacks thinking I was hungry but really, I simply hadn’t drunk enough water.

Remember not to be too hard on yourself. The current situation is difficult and stressful, especially for us students who somehow also have to motivate ourselves to complete assessments. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so don’t expect to go from couch potato to Olympic athlete. Take it slow and steady, listen to your body and let yourself rest. Just do not let yourself get lazy.

I wish you all the best and hope reading this helped.

Stay safe!
Molly Earp