Stay connected through free online workouts
By: Megan Benz
While stay-at-home orders seemed to mark the beginning of a new life of sweatpants and Netflix, it has proven to be so much more. It just so happens that being ordered to stay home is the excuse everyone has been waiting for; it’s an excuse to do something your future self will thank you for. So, instead of spending all day sitting, binging, and baking yummy banana bread, get up and get active. Take this time to try out a new exercise program, go for a walk, or simply practice mindfulness.
Although gyms and workout studios across the country have closed due to COVID-19, you can still get a great and effective workout at home. Many of Memorial’s favorite workout spots are now offering extended free trial periods on their apps, or free live sessions via YouTube and Instagram to keep their members active and engaged. Because studios are now online, you can now access classes with instructors from around the world for a fraction of the cost.
If you are not currently active at a gym or studio and are looking for a program to join, I highly recommend taking advantage of all the free videos available on YouTube. YouTube offers everything from HITT workouts to yoga. Of course, just like in the real world, you have to try a bunch of classes with different instructors and different kinds of classes to find your perfect fit, so don’t give up or get discouraged because there are so many different programs available.
Working out has always been more of a social event for me, so take advantage of all the technological opportunities available as you exercise. Zoom with your friends and take a YouTube class together or go on a walk and FaceTime a friend. There are so many ways to stay connected and get some exercise.
Below are some free workout options to fuel a better post-quarantine you:
- YouTube
- Instagram lives
- Megan Roup- Dance cardio (@meganroup)
- The Rockettes- Dancer-style strength and conditioning (@therockettes)
- Lia Bartha- Pilates-based ball method (@liabartha)
- Melissa Woodhealth- Yoga/Pilates conditioning (@melissawoodhealth)
- Amanda Kloots- Arm/Jump rope workouts (@amandakloots)
- Studio’s apps
- Ryde
- Pure Barre
- Define: Body & Mind (live streams via website)
- The Barre Method (live streams via website)
- The Sculpt Society
- Soul Tribe— Yoga
- Duplites—Dominics Pilates
