Going forward

 

As we emerge from a rather surreal few months it’s clear that for the foreseeable future we will have to change the way we go about our daily lives. When lockdown first started and all the gyms shut, many dusted off their outdoor exercise kit and took to the parks, streets and hills. Converted rooms and garages into convenient spaces for home workouts and purchased wetsuits for wild swimming. But strangely now as things reopen there isn’t the rush to return to gym life as before. Actually we’ve quite liked being outside and embracing the elements and adapting our usual fitness regime. Admittedly the weather has been on our side for the best part of it but still it is much more invigorating and healthy to be outdoors. 

As a trainer I am still conducting many of my sessions virtually and my clients have adapted and it’s still working well. Others found it too difficult so for them we have resumed activities outside in parks and gardens. My work life has changed quite dramatically and I do feel that we won’t be rushing back to the gym. 

Interestingly it is clear that working from home though is not beneficial to people’s weight and posture as back to back zoom meetings from dawn till dusk mean a great deal less movement overall and as a result weight gain and bad backs necks and shoulders. Again I can’t see people heading back to offices in the city right now meaning this is the new norm and we need to adapt as we go. 

I feel the future is us looking at outdoor exercise and fitness being the way forward and also virtual classes where you can dial in before you turn the computer on in the morning then grab a swift coffee as you sit down for you first meeting of the day, no shower required. It’s the height of convenience. No more driving to the gym, wearing flip flops in public showers, monthly gym fees. Either trainers on and out you go or iPad on Houseparty HiiT, Pilates, yoga, done. Even better you don’t have to miss anymore classes when you go away because you can join in wherever you are. 

No more competitive gym sessions hauling ass on the squat rack or bench press. It’s all about rope throwing in the park and the TRX around the tree. Body weight, dynamic and free movement. Sun on your face, wind in your hair. Healthier happier and more convenient. We are creatures of habit and it has been hard to cope with our new found situation but there can be a glimmer of sliver in this cloud.