A new virtual workout normal

Working out at home has been an adjustment. If you’re used to your routine, your go-to classes, favourite instructors, or access to a variety of equipment, I know it has been a challenge to make the shift. We are already stuck inside to work and enjoy our down time, and now we are expected to recreate the same space into a gym? Trust me, I get it. My kitchen now serves a dual purpose. Sometimes it is for cooking, and sometimes it is for working out.

I know most people have settled into this new fitness normal. It has been so exciting to see some of you invest in a space in your home to make movement happen, and even more of you purchase small equipment for at-home use. I hope this goes beyond this pandemic, making movement even more accessible now that we are all pros at working out from home!

If I can offer one piece of encouragement to those still struggling to find consistency in a schedule, remember just how great it feels to move your body! Even if you can find 20 minutes in your day, your brain and body will thank you.

However, I do know that as the year draws to a close and the novelty of working out at home wears off, we may be feeling like we lack a bit of motivation. For those that have struggled with creating a routine, I totally get it. My personal routine has been anything but that! I have yet to find a true rhythm for my own training between new business projects and my online teaching schedule. We are all dealing and coping with the challenge of isolating at home differently, and each of us is valid in how we are feeling and how we choose to deal with it. If I can offer one piece of encouragement to those still struggling to find consistency in a schedule, remember just how great it feels to move your body! Even if you can find 20 minutes in your day, your brain and body will thank you.

 

Challenges of working out at home

Especially if you live in a small space and with other people, I know first-hand just how challenging it can be. Hang in there, and hopefully some of my thoughts below will help support you.

Got a small space and living with others? Invite them to join or let them know when you intend to take time for yourself to move your body. That way they not only hold you accountable, but they can leave you alone and give you the space you need to make that happen.

Nervous about your ability? Don’t put your camera on if it makes you nervous or uncomfortable! A huge barrier for those new to exercise is lack of experience and therefore lack of confidence to show up. Now, you can exercise from the comfort of your own home, in whatever clothes are most comfortable for you and feel safe. And if you start to feel more comfortable, the camera option is always there for you.

Lacking the accountability? As mentioned above, your partner/family/roommate can encourage and support you. If you need extra accountability, invite a friend to participate from their home with you. Or better yet, let me know you want to take class! I will be sure to check in with you. You'll be more likely to come because you know I’ll be expecting you :) 

Not loving what working out used to look like for you? Our bodies and minds have changed this year. Your taste in your go-to workout class is also allowed to change. Mix it up! I know some of you tried Cardio Dance Party for the first time and loved it and are now regulars! Working out should be fun and something we look forward to. Whatever is working for you, keep on going, and whatever isn’t, let it go for now.

 

 

Benefits from at-home virtual exercise classes

 

Here are my top benefits to creating movement opportunities from home:

• allows you a physical break from the constant sitting most of us are doing at home
• gives you a reason to take a break from your work and create time for you
• can be a social time with the people you live with or you can make it social from a distance with friends
• or it can be the total opposite and you can use this as your alone time to escape those you live with :P
• boosts your mood and energy levels
• feels good to allow yourself time for you and escape the reality of what is beyond our doors for a short while

Everyone is doing the best they can during this time.  Remember that you can feel discouraged about what your workouts look like currently.  The best workout is the one you actually do, have fun with, and continue to revisit.  Regardless of your space, ability, or access to equipment, move your body and take care of yourself, so you can not only feel your best, but continue to show up for the important people in your life.

Yours in self-discovery.

Rachel

SeeWhatSheCanDo

Looking to learn more? Explore our Fitness activity page for articles, videos, and great community resources.

Find Discover You in our Athlete Advisor, your online business directory putting local sport, fitness, and wellness businesses at your fingertips. Find, rate, and review fitness leadership certification programs, local community offerings, and businesses that will help you do your thing.

Find, attend, or create a fitness leadership event on our SWSCD Hub.

Do you have a good resource or story around participating in virtual fitness classes and instruction? Tell us about your experience directly on our Discover blog or by using #seewhatshecando on social media and inspire others to get active.