By ALEXIA KADOTA-BROWNER, MICHELLE WU, JENNA WISELTIER, ELLIE KORNBERG, SABRINA PAN, LINDSEY KOMSON, SYDNEY LESNICK, DREW HECHT and LILY WACHTEL
During quarantine, most of us have become a lot more sedentary. We no longer have to get up every 40 minutes to travel down the halls to our next class or spend 10 minutes walking to and from the senior lot. In order to bring some movement back to your daily routine, here is a guided 5-minute stretch that you can do between “class periods” to help relieve some tension that builds up in your neck, back and legs from sitting at a computer all day.
Exercising can help pass time, but it also helps you stay fit, decreases the risk of health conditions and boosts energy levels. This routine from Oprah.com is an excellent workout that does not require any equipment.
Fitness experts and content creators are taking advantage of this time by posting at-home workouts that are easy to do in small spaces. A “HIIT Workout” burns fat and calories during and after the workout, and it does not require a lot of space. YouTube is a great resource for videos with instructors that break down each exercise, making it easier for viewers to understand the moves. Working out can help refresh the body and mind, especially if accompanied by an upbeat playlist.
Another way to be active, and get some fresh air, while in quarantine is riding a bike. While there are many physical benefits to biking, there are numerous mental health benefits as well. Biking can elevate your mood and decrease stress. It is also possible to bike with friends while remaining socially distanced! Riding 6 feet apart from a friend is a way to safely socialize during this time.
Jericho residents take advantage of the mild weather by taking strolls with pets. Jericho Middle School student Lilly M. expressed the value of walking. “Going for walks adds a break in the day to get some fresh air,” she said.
If riding bikes isn’t your forte, taking a walk is a great alternative. Walking outside helps with blood flow and circulation and can ultimately revamp one’s mood. It can also help trigger one’s creative side.
Whether it is with an at-home workout routine or some time outdoors, remembering to stay active during this time is important for all us.