Tuesday, June 9, 2020

SHS Gym Teachers Answer: How to Stay Active During Quarantine

Written By: Noelle Hanek

Exercise has been proven to be beneficial in numerous ways. Not only does exercising help us stay in shape, but it improves our health and overall well-being. With many of us having extra time to spare during quarantine, this is a perfect time to start improving our active lives– and the SHS gym teachers know exactly how to help! Here are some helpful tips from the gym teachers on how to stay active!

First off, what exercises can students do over quarantine? 

 Ms. Wille explained how students have been advised to exercise for a minimum of three times per week, for at least 30 minutes each day. “We would like them to combine cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, muscle endurance and flexibility.” she added. She also provided a great range of ideas on how to accomplish all three goals:

Hiking Trails
Walking/Jogging/Running
High Intensity Interval Training
Yoga
Abs
Meditation
Dance Cardio
Beginner Dumbbells
Circuit Workouts(such as pushups, squats, and much more!)

Where can these workouts be accessed? 
It is important to note that students in Sussex County have the unique advantage of having easy access to nearby hiking trails and parks. According to Mr. Tobin, workouts can be easily accessed through the downloading of fitness apps like Peloton or Beachbody. Additionally, many workouts are available for free on internet sources like YouTube! 

“There are many fitness options available to help everyone work out. There are numerous streaming workout classes available via the internet that provide a variety of different workouts to choose from.  From Yoga to HIIT classes, stretching, weight training, pilates, kickboxing, ab classes, dance, aerobic and circuit classes plus more!” Ms. Reese noted.

What if students do not have access to exercise equipment? 
“Not to worry,” Ms. Reese stated, “you can use water bottles, detergent jugs, books or whatever you have access to for weight resistance. Use a staircase for aerobic exercise and toning. Walk or run up the stairs, take two steps at a time, perform quick step taps, step knees, glute presses, etc. So many options!”

How can we make the workouts most effective?
Ms. D'Amelio gave a few helpful tips on this topic, suggesting “to do something that makes you happy, even if you start small.” This means that starting small can help students build themselves up to their goals. For Ms. D’Amelio, this meant starting with walking, then hiking, and eventually building up her endurance up to run miles again. She personally enjoys listening to music while exercising. She advises to “pick something you look forward to every day” because a workout you enjoy will end up with more results. 

Ms. Reese advises to switch up your exercises to keep it interesting and fun. “Keep the thought that whatever movement and activity you perform throughout the day is positive and will help to improve your fitness. The key is to make time for movement. If you do, it won't be too long before you begin to see and feel the many benefits that come from working out on a consistent basis,” she explained.

Lastly, How can we stay motivated? 
According to Mrs. Reese, having a workout partner or family member can help boost your motivation. You will push each other and help stay on track together. 

Mr. Tobin added that organization is also key to exercise success, “Staying organized and managing your time can help you with your school, work and exercise goals.” he explained.

There are tons of different exercises to choose from, and various ways to get active during this unusual time at home. If you needed that extra boost of motivation, here it is! Now is a great time to start exercising!

Thank you Sparta gym teachers for all of your efforts to keep Spartans active and healthy during this time!
A Beginner Workout Plan for Your First Week in the Gym | Planet ...
Source: Planet Fitness
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