Sport Captain

As I accepted my 2020 leadership role at Mt A, a pandemic was not something I ever expected to experience and, just like you, I wasn’t really prepared for it.  However, I do want to emphasise the importance of regular exercise and healthy eating during our time in isolation.

Exercising and keeping active during this time is essential; not only for your physical wellbeing; your mental wellbeing is equally as important.  Doing a quick workout before or after school can make a big difference and, if you don’t want to do it alone, Facetime your friends and do the workout together.  It can be as easily as taking 30 minutes out of your day to go for a walk or run, do an online workout, swim a couple of laps in your pool, or ride your bike around the block.  These are just a few easy ways for you to keep fit over the next couple of weeks.

Benefits of exercising include:

1. Reduces stress:  A pandemic is something none of us have experienced before, and stress and anxiety levels are high for some.  Exercising can help reduce the amount of stress and anxiety that you may be feeling and will benefit your mental wellbeing throughout your day, helping you to concentrate better as you participate in online classes.
2. Daily routine:  It is vital that throughout isolation we continue to complete tasks that we would on any other day.  Exercise plays a major part and should be incorporated into your day to help you continue with the routine you were used to prior to Covid-19.
3. Takes you out of the house:   A change of scenery and some fresh air will make a big difference – a quick walk around the block will do it.
4. Small breaks.  During this time our devices are vital for communication and work; however, reducing screen time by taking small breaks from our devices is extremely important.  Exercise gives you an opportunity to take a break.
5. ‘Me’ time.  Be generous - work at being intentionally kind with others and especially yourself.  No one is perfect.  We all need ‘me time’ in our lives right now.

You may prefer to participate in an online yoga or meditation session.  These activities are great to de-stress and relax.

Importantly, physical activity will help greatly with maintaining your mental wellbeing.  The endorphins that the brain releases during exercise help to improve your mood, energy levels, and even sleep.  Eating healthily is also a major contributor to a person’s wellbeing and is equally important during this time.  Also, remember to drink plenty of water!

So, whether you take a quick walk around your neighbourhood, or spend ten minutes just meditating or making your favourite healthy snack, I promise you’ll feel much better afterwards.

Hope you are all well and staying safe!

Emma Winstanley

Ab Workout with Emma

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