Movement

Self-care practices for our changing world

Things to consider trying

Exercise
Try to get outside to exercise if possible. If you have a garden try circuits, yoga, even digging, otherwise other safe outdoor spaces for a run, walk or bike ride. Obviously follow public health guidance when doing this.

Online Classes
There is a huge surge in online class offerings – see resources below for more info.

Things to consider minimising

Sedentary time for prolonged periods.

It’s easy to move significantly less if you’re working from home, so set a timer to get up and move every hour or so. 5 star jumps or running on the spot for 30 seconds gets everything moving again. Using the Pomodora technique (basically, dividing your day into 25 minute chunks – lots of apps are available for this – is something that many people have recommended as a great way to time manage your day and include movement ‘snacks’.

An uncomfortable desk set-up

If working from home, try to make sure it is as ergonomic and comfortable as possible. Sore backs, necks, shoulders and wrists can occur quite quickly with awkward positions. For more information on how to set your desk up, take a look at this checklist from the National Institute of Health.

Other resources

With the kids:

Yoga:

  • Yoga with Adriene (Free, YouTube)
  • Movement for Modern Life (offering a 70% discount on membership for those in need and free for NHS staff).
  • Many local teachers are now offering live online classes too, so check the website of your local studio.
  • Triyoga is soon offering online classes.
  • For a wonderful Vinyasa Flow class, check out Heidi’s online classes (£8 each)

High intensity:

  • Peloton app is offering a 90 day free trial.
  • Barry’s Boot Camp is offering free daily workouts via Instagram Live. Check their feed daily for the next day’s timetable.
  • Fitness Blender – over 600 free workouts available online
  • Cult fitness studio, FRAME, is now providing online classes – including dance, pilates and HIIT.

Barre & Ballet:

  • Paolas Body Barre is doing online barre and personal training classes for a tough, sculpting workout.
  • Free live ballet sessions with The Ballet Couch (including for little ones) with Sarah Du-Feu, an English National Ballet School trained dancer.

Other:

  • Sweaty Betty offers a wide selection of free, at-home workouts