FITNESS NOTES- Get Moving

Absolutely quizzes Adam Ridler, Master Trainer at Ten Health & Fitness on getting fit post-lockdown

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

Q Has lockdown had an impact on the nation’s fitness levels?

A Not only has the closing of leisure facilities and sports clubs and studios reduced many people’s activities levels, but lockdown has put a stop to daily commutes and those little bits of movement we do throughout the day. Mental health has also reportedly worsened throughout lockdown with heightened stress and depression due to health anxieties, isolation and boredom.

Q How can those of us who haven’t been exercising during lockdown get motivated?

A Start by finding something that interests you and that you actually enjoy, whether it’s pilates, jogging or HIIT. Then set some realistic short-term goals, as these “small wins” will keep you motivated as you progress. National guidelines state that we should try to achieve 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week, including two sessions which strengthen muscles. But you can start by trying short bouts of exercise a few times a week. You’ll benefit from a “dose response”, which is when less active people see great health improvements by simply starting. Bodyweight exercises like pilates can be great for mindfulness too.

Q How can people access online classes?

A When lockdown started, there seemed to be a flurry of trainers, fitness brands and influencers doing Instagram Live workouts, but now many people have moved to using fitness brands’ own virtual training sessions. For example, at Ten Health & Fitness we have a series of free live sessions via our Instagram page as well as a schedule of sessions available through Zoom-calls. We also have low-impact on-demand workouts on our YouTube channel which are all instructed by our experts.