Exercise is Essential for Well-Being During COVID-19 Pandemic

Exercise is Essential for Well-Being During COVID-19 Pandemic

• By Staff Writer

Exercise is Essential for Well-Being During COVID-19 Pandemic

Measures taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19 are causing changes in everyday schedules are disrupting workout routines for many Americans.

Exercise is especially important now because it can decrease stress, prevent weight gain, increase the immune system, and improve sleep.

You can safely engage in physical activity by exercising with family, getting outdoors, using online fitness resources, taking a virtual class, setting exercise goals, and doing calorie-burning chores.

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted just about every aspect of ordinary life — and exercise routines are no exception. Work-from-home, remote learning, and public health guidelines for gyms and fitness facilities that include capacity limitations, cleaning protocols, mask-wearing, and social distancing have changed how, when, and where we exercise.

Although it might be tempting to skip your workout during these challenging times, public health officials say that exercise — while undoubtedly crucial under normal circumstances — is essential to your physical health and mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s why you should stay active and how you can exercise safely during the pandemic.

What COVID-19 concerns may affect physical and mental health?

If you’re working from home, you may find that you’re sitting for more extended periods. And, changes in your daily routines — such as caring for kids who are home from school — may make it more challenging to find time to exercise.

COVID-19-related concerns may affect dietary habits, leading to higher calorie consumption that could promote weight gain. Limiting trips to the grocery store, skipping fresh fruits and vegetables in favor of stocking up on calorie-dense, non-perishable foods, and financial difficulties may cause people to opt for less expensive, ultra-processed food options. All the extra hours you’re spending at home may make you more likely to snack, “stress-bake,” or prepare high-calorie, comfort-food meals.

Additionally, many people are coping with fear, anxiety, stress, financial concerns, sadness, boredom, and isolation — all of which can have a negative effect on diet, physical health, and mental well-being.