Chisa Glendenning says it's still possible to stay active during the COVID-19 pandemic, even if you don't have a home gym. (Submitted Photo/Chisa Glendenning)

By Mat Barrett

No Gym, No Problem

Staying active and in shape still possible, even with gyms closed during COVID-19 pandemic

Apr 3, 2020 | 8:00 AM

The COVID-19 pandemic has shut down numerous businesses in Saskatchewan, and across Canada.

Included in those businesses closed are local gyms. However, even with local gyms shut down for the time being, that doesn’t mean stop getting active and staying fit.

Chisa Glendenning is a personal trainer and operates Chisa G Fitness, she said there’s plenty of ways to get those workouts in, even if you don’t have a home gym at your disposal.

“If you do, that’s bonus points,” she said. “Just make sure we’re actually in it, and using it, but you don’t need it. Mostly everyone has stairs in their house. Just setting little things, starting small.”

Glendenning added our own bodyweight is also a great thing to use in workouts. She said it’s important to remain active during this time of self-isolation and social distancing.

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“When we’re in our homes and we’re bored, we start to snack, and we start to eat more than we normally would,” Glendenning told northeastNOW. “And also, just the activity of everyday life, getting in your vehicle, going to work, getting up, getting groceries, getting this getting that, we’re burning calories doing just those simple things. But when we’re not doing those things and we’re in our home, we’re not burning as many calories.”

She said as a result, some may see a few extra pounds being put on.

“Fitness, it’s 80 per cent food, and 20 per cent that activity,” Glendenning said.

But how long should we be getting active each day? Glendenning said 20 minutes a day is a good starting point for daily goal.

“That’s a great start for everyone,” she said. “If 20 minutes sounds like it’s too much for you, break it up. So do something for 10 minutes in the morning, 10 minutes in the afternoon, maybe five minutes before you go to bed, or just try and get something in for 20 minutes.”

Glendenning added having an accountability partner is great. Even if you can’t be with them in person, things like FaceTime and Zoom, among other video chatting services are options.

Not only is getting active during this time important for our physical health, but mental well-being as well. Glendenning said a big part of it is making sure you have a routine.

“Don’t stay in your pyjamas all day, don’t sit around,” she said. “Get up, have a shower, get ready, put on some clothes. Nine o’clock, or whatever time you decide is your workout time, get up, get it done, check it off.”

Glendenning added to drink plenty of water as well.

For those who don’t know where to start when it comes to home workouts, Glendenning said there are numerous “fitness gurus” in the area, including herself that are willing to help get people started.

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mat.barrett@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @matbarrett6