How to keep fit and healthy in a COVID-19 lockdown

2021 didn’t start particularly positive for anyone in the UK, as we were thrown into yet another lockdown. However, whilst lockdowns have become the new norm, it doesn’t mean they become easier – especially in the midst of bleak winters.

Here are 10 tips to help you keep healthy, in what we all hope is the final lockdown:

1. Home workouts

With gyms being closed, home workouts have become a necessity to keep the endorphins pumping. Not only are they practical - as they can be completed in your front room; they are also effective at getting you fit. One great personal trainer is Ross Hosking who provides home workouts on his Instagram and Facebook pages: The Tri PT.

2. Daily walks

Increasing your step count and getting fresh air is a great way to keep fit and clear your mind. Everyone Active lists the benefits of walking and why you should try to walk daily.

3. Running/ jogging

Whilst running sounds daunting to some, the NHS provides a ‘Couch to 5k’ plan which breaks the intimidation of runs, by setting goals to complete over 9 weeks with motivational advice along the way.

4. Healthy diet

Although it may be tempting to fill the day by snacking on junk food – it doesn’t do your body or mind any favours. A healthy diet doesn’t have to be drastic changes. Snacking on fruit and eating a varied, balanced diet will improve not only your body physically, but also mentally by making you feel more awake and motivated.

@annaarcherfitness Nourish Bowl from Instagram

5. Try to keep an active routine

Mind UK highlights the importance of keeping an active routine. You can maintain a routine, even in lockdown, by simple changes such as: waking up at the same time, showering and eating breakfast before you begin your day. These steps will place you in the right mindset for the day ahead.

6. Limit screen time

Keeping fit does not only regard you physically, but also mentally. Although we have adapted well to not seeing people face to face - through the using the internet, it is still just as important to get time away from our screens, allowing your body to refresh. The Mayo Clinic offers tips to help you reduce your screen time.

Try to not go on your phone first thing in the morning and before bed, giving your body the chance it deserves for a good rest.

7. Realistic goals

Setting goals is a key factor to staying motivated and keeping track of your progress. However, if your goals are not realistic, this can deter you from your development.

Instead of setting just long term aims, make to include precise, short term goals as well, such as: being able to do 10 push ups. This will result in more goals being achieved - maintaining your motivation whilst also keeping you on track to your long term aims.

8. Follow social media accounts that inspire you

Accounts such as: Anna Archer fitness, Stef_fit and Zannavandijk create posts that provide inspiration to their followers whilst keeping it realistic. So control what you see in your social media feed and surround yourself with encouragement and positivity.

9. Gym equipment

One positive to come of lockdown is that gym equipment has become much more accessible. Websites such as Amazon provide various gym necessities that will advance your work outs.

10. Keeping in touch with friends and family

With so many uncertainties in the country, one thing you can rely on, to improve your mood, is your friends and family. So check up on them, chat regularly and keep socialising online.

Remember: lockdown won’t last forever but in the meantime, look after yourself. For more tips, see my post on how to look after yourself whilst training.