COMEBACK FROM COVID
The loss of exercise through lockdown has been damaging to many in multiple ways, and its absence has highlighted its many benefits.
The last 18 months have been extraordinary. At the time of writing, we are entering a relaxing of restrictions (Step 4 of the Roadmap - 19th July). With so many changes of rules and regulations you are forgiven to feel a bit disorientated and that can be true when it comes to your exercise too.
Exercise is good for you. It is a constant rule. Our modus operandi! Why and how you go about it may differ but even during the current state of play this advice is evergreen.
THE LOCKDOWN EFFECT
One of the many detrimental effects of the numerous lockdowns has been inactivity. Not only has it stopped the progress many of you were making before, it has seen many people caught in a vicious cycle of regression; which has seen bodies get weaker, fitness decrease and motivation plummet. This is nobody's fault. It has been a tough card dealt across the board.
START SMALL & BUILD
What everyone needs now is a springboard. A restart. Take it one day at a time and it can start tomorrow, day one. It does not have to be big or clever, it can be a walk, a swim or a light strength and mobility session. It will be the first rebuilding block to your ultimate goal - feeling better. As you progress to reap the rewards of your new active habit you will feel alive again. If there is one thing the last year plus has been short of - it's fun, so let exercise fulfil that mood!
EXERCISE & HEALTHY EATING: THE ULTIMATE IMMUNITY BOOSTER
It is unclear how long we will be living under the Covid cloud but what we can say confidently is that physical activity will boost your immune system. Improving your respiratory system and the body’s ability to fight infections with changes in antibodies and white blood cells - exercise is the protective buddy you need. Overdoing it can be detrimental (please speak to a member of the gym team for guidance) but that level is rare and lack of activity is a far greater threat to the population. In addition, it will help your sleep (and vice versa) and reduce stress which helps shield you from any threats to the body. A nutritious diet full of fruit, veg, whole grains, lean protein and plenty of water will aid your defences.
LONG COVID, VACCINES AND EXERCISE
Many of you might be recovering from contracting Covid and still not feel right and will be wondering what they should or should not do when returning. You may be suffering from long Covid or feel a bit off after your vaccine. First piece of advice will be to take your time. You do not need to put yourself under pressure. Whether your body is recovering or repairing listen to it. When it comes to the jab, most symptoms are short term whether feverish, low energy or a sore arm. It might be 24 hours or a few days, think of it as a tapering week whilst your body adjusts. Long Covid differs from person to person. Go steady. Your body may be telling you it is not ready for an increase in intensity. Listen to it. Be patient.
The benefits to your immune system described earlier will come through but if symptoms of fatigue hit - relax and ride it out or focus on lower intensity work with a walk or mat based exercises. It may feel frustrating but turn it into an opportunity to work on mobility and activation exercises which may have been overlooked previously in preparation for your comeback. You can always book in a session with a personal trainer who can assess you and recommend a suitable, individual plan for you.
THE LINK BETWEEN PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEATLH
A three-way Venn diagram of thriving physical, emotional and mental health goes a long way and has been highlighted by the pandemic. The seclusion we all endured harmed us in all three areas. Working out and the release of endorphins will boost your emotional and mental health. They will reciprocate your physical wellbeing in return. In a club setting the bonus of the special atmosphere at The Hogarth with so many friendly and supportive faces enhances our state of mind. Many people have remarked on this since returning. Hopefully the lift this gives you can help everyone outside of these walls too. When you leave here we want it to be with a spring in your step!
It has been a steep learning curve in the last year and a half for us all. I am sure the months ahead will teach us more. Rest assured the team at The Hogarth is aware of the latest research and will always act accordingly to be here to help you. We will always aim for you to enjoy your visit here. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Ready for a reset?
Find out more about our 90 Day Fitness Reset Programme to kickstart healthier habits with the support of our team of health & fitness professionals!
Get in touch with Health & Fitness Manager, Vojin for any questions: vojin@thehogarth.co.uk