Do's and Don'ts of Exercising Outdoors During COVID-19 Distancing Measures

As the vast majority of the country, or about 300 million Americans, remain under orders to stay at home to slow the spread of COVID-19, another recommendation is to keep exercising, including outdoors. These are some do's and don'ts of exercising outdoors while physically distancing yourself from other people to keep yourself and others safe.

DO exercise outdoors

Being physically active helps control weight and lower the risk of chronic diseases, and it also has benefits that are specific to the COVID-19 situation. Exercising helps relieve stress and strengthen the immune system. Exercising outdoors may have additional benefits for mental and physical health.

DON'T go to a crowded location

Beaches, parks, and hiking trails may not be realistic destinations right now, especially if you live in a city. They may be too crowded to maintain your 6-foot distance, and many are closed now anyway.

DO take your gym workout outside

If you are used to working out in a gym but can no longer do so, there are ways to get a similar workout in the fresh air by setting up equipment, such as dumbbells or resistance bands, in your yard or at a park. Many online streaming services offer classes that you could do by taking your smartphone outside.

DON'T get stuck in a rut

Americans may be staying at home for several more weeks, so it is best to include a variety of activities to prevent boredom. Walking, jogging, biking, kicking a ball around at a park or against a wall, gardening, jumping rope, and cleaning out the garage are all good ways to get your heart rate up.

DO include your family

The people you live with may be the only in-person company you get nowadays, so they may as well be your workout buddies, too. Adults may hop into your workouts or suggest their own for you to try, while kids are good for exhausting and satisfying games such as Tag and Follow the Leader.

DON'T invite all your friends

Good though your intentions may be, it is nearly impossible to maintain your 6-foot distance throughout an entire walk, run, or other workout. Phoning friends while working out may be the best way to work out with them. 

DO make room for everyone

Crowded sidewalks from people not usually out there. When someone is coming towards you, you may need to step aside for them. Generally, it makes sense to step aside for people pushing strollers or parents with young children, as well as older adults.

DON'T take chances

If there are simply too many people out there to exercise safely, it may be best to take another route or exercise at a different time of day.

DO keep your dog on a leash

Dogs are built-in motivators and great company for exercise so take full advantage. Just be considerate of others, and follow the law, by keeping your dog on a leash unless you are at an off-leash dog park. Even if you normally "get away" with letting your dog off of her leash, there are more people outside right now to share sidewalks and parks.

DON'T let your dog drag you too close to other people

While dogs will not spread the virus to humans, they can suddenly drag you close to other people if they go towards them or other dogs without warning. Stay aware of what may attract your dog so you can prevent close encounters.

DO take Lark with you

Keep your phone on you so Lark can detect all that movement you are doing, and log in often to get encouragement and see how much you moved. Best of all, Lark is your 24/7 coach and you do not even need to worry about germs.

DON'T sweat the details

The exact number of calories you burned or miles you walked is not as important as getting out there and doing something. During the COVID-19 pandemic, being consistent with your exercise routine without letting it add to your stress is a priority. That is why Lark is encouraging, positive, and there for you all the time.