What if you just get started with your fitness journey, and suddenly there came the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing you from hitting the gym? No need to worry! There are still things you can do to stay fit and healthy. As we already all know, a healthy weight is more than just feeling good about yourself. But it also improves your overall health and cognitive functions.
1. Workout
Working out remains the number one factor when it comes to losing weight. Because it allows you to burn a significant amount of calories, it promotes weight loss. The problem is, the quarantine period requires everyone to stay at home. You can try these exercises, though. They allow you to burn fat without having to walk past your pre-cast concrete wall.
- Bridge
- Planking
- Chair squat
- Straight-leg donkey kick
- Push-up
- Stationary lunge
- Side-lying hip abduction
- Bicycle crunch
- Jumping lunges
Even during a pandemic, there are many ways to stay active. Start with a 15-minute exercise, then gradually increase your workout duration by adding a new set. Exercising activates thermogenesis in the body, speeding up fat burning. Doing it consistently will sure help you achieve your fitness goals.
2. Healthy Diet
The quarantine period makes food more tempting. Since you cannot go outdoors to hang out with your friends, watching on Netflix while picking on popcorn and buffalo wings sounds like a great idea! But junk food can ruin your weight!
Go for a delicious low-calorie snack instead. Even plain fruits and vegetables can turn into a mouth-watering snack when you add a twist to them. For instance, Brussels sprouts make a tasty snack when mixed with olive oil, spices, and Parmesan cheese. It satisfies cravings without wrecking your diet.
3. Plenty of Water
Did you know that drinking water in the morning kicks off your metabolism? And balanced metabolism is one of the keys to staying fit and healthy. Dehydration slows down your metabolism. It’s the natural response of your body to conserve energy. And the result is weight gain. So if you want to improve your metabolism, make it a habit to drink eight glasses of water a day. Water also helps flush out toxins in the body, promotes a healthier gut, and improves brain functions.
4. Stress Management
Are you wondering how stress is related to weight loss? Stress eating. That’s one reason stress management is essential.
Getting stressed out occasionally is normal. We are just human. There’s financial matters, relationships, family, and jobs we have to deal with. Sometimes, things get overwhelming and stress us out. And prolonged stress has a detrimental effect on your body.
Have you been stressed out lately? Take time to unwind. Spend some time alone. Disconnecting from social media will also help. Study shows that social media is linked to depression and anxiety because of the overwhelming information on it. Life can sometimes be challenging. But remember, you are allowed to take a break.
5. Yoga
While yoga cannot help you burn lots of calories as much as exercise, it promotes mindfulness. And when you are in tune with your mind and body, achieving your fitness goals comes naturally. Fortunately, you need not attend classes to learn it.
Just find a quiet place where you can sit comfortably. Close your eyes, then start focusing on your breathing. You will feel your body beginning to get lighter. When your mind wanders, shift your attention back to your breathing.
Yoga is a great way to gain a sense of balance and relaxation. Not only that, but it also helps improve your memory, flexibility, and focus.
6. Quality Sleep
Have you been deprived of sleep because of your daytime job? The quarantine period is the perfect time to make up for lost sleep. You can use the time you usually spend on the road to get longer sleep.
Sleep deprivation is associated with weight gain. It triggers hunger because your brain sends signals to your body that you need more energy. That’s when midnight cravings strike. You can prevent it by getting 8 hours of sleep a day, though. Further, quality sleep promotes cell regeneration, helping you look younger and radiant.
Try taking a warm bath two hours before bedtime. It is said to promote better sleep. You can also try applying an essential oil. It contains calming properties that can help you feel relaxed.
Some people complain that the quarantine period causes them to gain more weight. But it can be the exact opposite for you. With a proper diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle, you sure can achieve your ideal weight.
