At the best of times, it’s hard for adults to achieve the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week, based on the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines. Covid-19 is making it harder. And then there is the recommended 60 minutes of energetic play for kids per day... oy!
So, what can you do to keep active?
Many parks and trails are closed at this time. However, in most urban areas it is still ok to go for a heart-pumping, blood-moving walk/roll around the neighbourhood – as long as you keep your physical distance to six feet from others. Some people have started putting teddy bears and rainbows in their window to create a scavenger hunt for their neighbours. Next time you are out, look a little closer to see if your neighbourhood does this – but the teddies and rainbows should be a blur of fuzz and colour because of your walking/rolling speed!
In the country there may be areas less travelled, so if you live outside a city, or if you can get there, you may want to consider a hike, taking in some nature along the way. If the trails are closed, you can try a slow country road. Take time to look around and just breathe. Treasure the time.
But when you are at home, there’s no reason to stop being active. Do an at home workout! This YouTube channel has many workouts that are geared towards people with all abilities. Check it out and see if there is something that fits your lifestyle: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwMObYmlSHaNyPBsDN4ATKi_Cn-dTyuK5 As well, UFIT (Universal Fitness Innovation and Transformation) has lots of resources on inclusive ways to stay active, such as inclusive yoga and flexibility for all classes: https://justdoufit.com/ufit-homexercise/
If you spend each week trying to reach your recommended physical activity, chances are good that, on the other side of this Covid-19 mess, you are going to come out looking and feeling great!
As a reminder, we are looking for ideas/activities to include in our (hopefully) weekly blog.
- We want to provide a balance of online and offline activities. Chances are good that we are all getting lots of screen time already as we isolate at home.
- We believe active living includes recreation, sport and play – so any activities you want to share that fall into these categories would be great!
- The Active Living Alliance for Canadians with a Disability is all about inclusion – an interesting thought as we all isolate in our homes. Give us your best inclusive ideas and activities for these unique times.
- Send your ideas/activities to: info@ala.ca
Until next time, remember to move it!