Ways to Stay Motivated and Active When You’re Stuck at Home

Nowadays everyone is getting used to their new normal.  Which for me is staying mostly home and living that “time to change from my day PJ’s to my night PJ’s” life. Yes, these are strange times we are living in with the COVID-19 pandemic. It might seem easy to just lay around and binge-watch Disney+ (yes, we all have those urges), but don’t forget to stay active! It is a crucial time to stay healthy and fit so your immune system is in peak condition. Here are a few tips on ways to stay motivated and active when you’re stuck at home.

Put on Your Active Wear

When I first started running, I realized that the hardest part of getting out the door was getting into my running clothes. Once I had the outfit on, it was time to get my sweat on! It seems like a small step, but I guarantee you will feel inspired to do something once you don your workout duds! Give it a try and see if you feel inspired!   

Sleep in Your Active Wear

Here’s a tip I’ve heard from folks who have a hard time finding motivation during the day to workout, sleep in your workout clothes. The idea is that you are reducing your time to get ready in the morning, thus making your early workout quicker and easier to start! This is something I have never done personally, but if it works for you, that’s awesome!

Explore Youtube Workout Channels

With gyms being closed it’s become a bit tougher for folks to get their strength training in. During these times Youtube.com is a LIFESAVER! Youtube offers endless strength and fitness channels to explore! Since I have stopped attending my yoga class, I discovered a great channel called “Yoga With Adriene”. She has TONS of free yoga videos for all levels of fitness. I am excited to explore more of her channel!

Virtual Races

Since pretty much EVERY race has been canceled (and for good reason) there is no better time to try a virtual race out! I had never signed up for one, but since my race got canceled, I decided to give it a try. They are fantastic for beginner runners since you can run your own race without having to attend a big event. I can’t wait for my “May the 4’th” baby Yoda medal to arrive, and to run my half marathon! Virtual races are great to motivate runners who have been left raceless during this time.

Play Around

Being active doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Sometimes I just mess around with my weights in the living room or see what I can do with some resistance bands. Maybe have a dance party with your kids or husband. Have you jumped rope recently? Why not give it a try! Have FUN and get your heart rate up!

Make it Routine

If you carve out a part of your day, whether it be first thing in the morning or half an hour in the evening, you will be motivated to stick with your workout. I’ve said it before, but I am VERY routine, so this is a huge motivator for me. If you have a busy schedule, setting time aside for a workout is key. This will help keep you motivated and on track. Also, schedule rest days and make them routine. Believe me, taking a few days off will make sticking with your workout days easier.

Vitamin D

We all need it, that sweet sweet sunshine. If nothing else, get outside for your own mental health. Catching some sun in any way possible, whether it be running, biking or walking, will improve your mood and overall well-being. Make sure you take the time to get out of the house and know that everything is going to be okay!

Remember that getting active in whatever way you choose, and making it part of your routine, will help keep you healthy and sane during these crazy times. This time will pass, and we will all appreciate things (like races!) a little more. And maybe we might learn a little something new about ourselves and what motivates us along the way!

For more motivation read “Mental Strength and Running: How to Become Stronger“.

Check out “How to Become a Runner: Powerful First Steps” for more information about starting a running habit!

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