“Hi, how are you?”
“Fine thanks, how are you?”
Sounds like a familiar greeting, right? However, I suspect as government restrictions ease, the answer is somewhat economical with the truth! after 15 months of uncertainty and abrupt changes, who could be blamed for feeling, at best, a little uneasy, and at worst, anxious and overwhelmed. The coming months will be an adjustment for everyone, even those who are relieved and excited about the return to normality. So, it’s time to do all we can to ensure we’re ready for the voyage ahead.
During each lockdown, exercise has been my one constant, my little bit of routine, amongst the ever-changing times. aside from the numerous physical benefits, people who exercise regularly do so because it gives them an enormous sense of well-being. They feel more energetic, sleep better, have sharper memories, higher self-esteem and stronger resilience. regardless of your age, you can learn to use exercise to improve your energy, outlook and enjoyment of life.
Regular exercise prompts all sorts of changes in the brain, including neural growth and new brain activity patterns, these promote feelings of calm and well-being. Endorphins are released in your brain and these energise your spirits and make you feel good.
Exercise serves as a distraction, a break from any negative thoughts that feed and fuel depression and anxiety. Group exercise brings other added benefits – a sense of community and togetherness, and inter-personal contact which humans thrive on. Group exercise, even the livestream online ones, create a connection with others and a shared experience which will soon make a resurgence in our lives.
As we regain our daily routines, make sure exercise features in your ‘new’ beginnings. if you already exercise, set new fitness goals, find a new challenge, explore a different type of exercise. if, however, lockdown for you has been a little more sedate, then it really is never too late to start. There are so many options – online fitness, 1-2-1 training, group classes, fitness apps, gyms, the list goes on, there really is something for everyone.
Find something you enjoy and build steadily from there, you’ve been through a lot, and it’s been one hell of a rollercoaster. mental and physical strength is a gift you can bestow on yourself. Community and connection are there for the taking. Some of you may feel guilt pangs or regret about not exercising or doing too little, but be sure of one thing – You will never regret completing a workout, so come on, what are you waiting for?
Connect Fitness offer group fitness classes with a personal touch, and appeal to a broad range of ages and fitness levels. Take a peek at www.connect-fitness.co.uk to see how you can connect with us and others.