How to stay active during a pandemic

Thanks to our special guest blogger Dr. Tricia Pierce, Assistant Professor of Exercise Science at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.

It has been hard to maintain social, spiritual and literally all relationships during the global pandemic. One mechanism you can use to improve your mental and spiritual health is exercise. This does not mean you need to sweat and pump iron at the gym. Exercise can be beneficial in as little as 10 minutes a day. 

Frequently asked questions

Does 10 minutes a day really make a difference?

Yes, 10 minutes of exercise can improve your cardiovascular health, improve insulin sensitivity and help with balance.

Why is it important for me to move?

Exercise is a use-it-or-lose-it relationship. Your body needs movement to stay healthy and prevent injury from occurring.

What should I do for exercise?

Walking is the number one exercise recommended for all people. Below are some suggestions, even an indoor walking video that can be done in a small area. These 10 to 15-minute videos are appropriate for beginners, women and all body types.

10-minute Indoor Walking Workout for Seniors: This is a beginning level.

This video is moderate to hard and includes some flexibility exercises. 10 minutes

This is a 15-minute full body workout with 5 lb weights for women over 50 years old.

Try each video and see which one fits best for you. You don’t need to complete the full video, at first. Take it slow and break it up into 5-minute sessions, if needed. Ask a friend to join you and make it a plan two or three times per week. 

Keep moving

Equipment is not necessary to have an effective workout. As long as you are moving your body. With aging bodies it is vital to continue everyday movements. Here is a short list of the benefits you will add to your life: Increase cardiovascular health, decrease blood pressure, improve muscular strength and endurance, better reaction time, improved glucose levels, better memory and better balance. Your body is an amazing tool if you use it!

Leaving your body up to circumstances will lead to weight gain, loss of muscular strength and endurance, along with low-grade depression and anxiety. Moving your body has never been more important than right now. 

If you have questions reach out to Dr. Pierce via email tricia.pierce@smwc.edu.