Keeping Your Distance, Maintaining Your Fitness
The pandemic has forced us all to rethink many of our daily routines, forming new habits that have an immediate – but possibly also a long-term – impact. When it comes to fitness, we’ve seen some incredible shifts. For some, the sudden abundance of time has motivated them to pick up a fitness regimen; for others already committed to a studio, club or gym it has forced some creative problem solving.
While Peloton and the Mirror have created more interest in at-home fitness these past few years, culturally we have a “go to the gym” mentality. So, what does one do when their favorite yoga instructor is unavailable? Or the high-end exercise equipment at their club is suddenly on lock down? As we’ve seen, where there's a will, there's a creative new way to exercise whether that's outdoors, online or at home. Here's a quick look at not only how consumers are committing to their physical well-being, but also how the fitness industry overall is evolving with them.
Outdoors
For those wanting a natural connection to the outdoors (or a good excuse to get out of the house), the idea of Vitaparcours fits. According to The New York Times, this outdoor circuit training phenomenon began in Switzerland back in the 70s. This cross-fit approach uses various circuit training exercises like dips and pull-ups often on natural materials to help participants achieve a full-body workout. The concept applies the same principles found in HIIT, or high-intensity interval training methods used today.
For those in urban settings, we've seen inspiring impromptu rooftop exercise classes with participants following the instructor live from their own balconies. It gives them the physical distance society requires along with the communal class feel they so many desire at this time.
Online
As studio doors have closed, it has opened the possibilities for fitness instructors to find bigger audiences...and for some, a cult-like following. Instead of motivating a few dozen in a room, they're able to inspire thousands around the world. From Instagram Live to YouTube On-Demand, there are virtually unlimited possibilities for all fitness levels. Although there's no way to fully replicate the energy from an in-person class, the real time instruction can keep participants in the moment and motivated to do more.
Workout platforms like Peloton take it a step further by tracking performance, providing instant feedback and offering a live look at how one compares to others in a class. Progress becomes a motivating tool especially when working out alone. And key to their digital app-based offering – you don’t need their Peloton equipment. They’ve even extended their typical three-week free trial to 90-days free.
And if you’re a parent, you’ve likely turned on Cosmic Kids to get the kids moving around the house, expelling that cooped-up energy. Overnight, Jaime Amor’s online yoga classes became a sensation to give kids easy-to-follow activities and parents a much-needed break in the day.
At Home
For those who aren't ready to invest the money or physical space for a higher-end piece of equipment, there's always a fitness opportunity around you. It just might mean redefining what a workout really is. For example, instead of a leisurely bike ride with the kids, try running behind them for the full distance. Instead of 20 minutes of cardio, how 'bout an impromptu social distanced dance party with five up-tempo songs in a row? Or consider setting up a neighborhood obstacle course filled with fun physical challenges and determining who can get the best time on the block?
But if it’s a little bit of ‘me time’ you’re seeking, there are plenty of smart round ups that will help you determine what accessible fitness program is out there that will fit your routine or interests. Unconventional times require unconventional methods. Out of necessity comes innovation and with the right challenge perspiration. Here's to finding new ways to remaining active each day, and possible new habits formed long-term.