Everyone knows the expression: “If you do not use it, you lose it”. It is very important for older adults the keep moving, especially during these times we are stuck at home so much. Dutch GP Edwin de Vaal in Nijmegen, says: “Many senior are scared to get infected by the COVID-19 virus and therefore do not go outside. But, they should actually go outside. First of all because in the Netherlands we are allowed, if you do Social Distancing (at least 1,5 meters distance) and if you wash your hands regularly. Secondly because you need to keep moving otherwise you lose muscle tones. Especially if you reached the age of 70.”
Here are five tips to stay fit during the Corona Crisis:
At Home
Don’t become a couch potato during the lockdown. Get up, walk around the house and do some squat exercises. While brushing your teeth you could do some exercises for your balance: while brushing stand for one minute on one leg and then alternate after that minute for a second minute. You can hold the sink if it is too difficult.
Around the house
Are you less mobile? You could consider to do some exercises in the staircases of your house or apartment building. Hold the raining, go up one stair and back again. When you feel confident enough do two, etc. Everyday you can progress. Don’t forget to wash your hands after you are done and get back home.
Walk/Stroll
It is very important to get some fresh air. Combine exercising and getting some fresh air while walking outside. In case you are fit enough try to stroll or have a high pace walk for at least 30 minutes a day. Don’t forget to keep Social Distancing in mind.
Cycle
Like walking, going for a bicycle ride Net als het wandelen, is fietsen natuurlijk ook een ideale manier om zowel een frisse neus te halen en lekker te bewegen. Uiteraard als je ergens naar toe moet, maar des te meer als je gewoon recreatief gaat fiesten. Geniet van de prachtige omgeving.
Tennis
Do you already know how to play tennis and are the courts near you re-opened again? Go and play some tennis outside. By playing tennis you combine four things: you are not alone while keeping your distance, you are outside enjoying some fresh air, you are moving and finally you can literally get all your stress out with every hit of the ball.
In case you do not have a tennis partner or don’t want to go cycle and/or go for a walk alone, find a new buddy via the Shine Social Club app. Download the app for free and post either an event or a note on the bulletin board to find someone near your with the same interests.