Given the crazy times we’re living in, we can’t group run, can’t go to the gym, can’t swim . . . I wanted to reach out to my good friends, Sabrina from runningbringa.com. I wanted to see how she’s faring and get her advice (she’s a running coach) on what we should be doing now to prepare for the future?
Here’s what she had to say:
Given social distancing, what are your recommendations for running?
Run solo. Running solo is the new group running. I’m running during off peak hours which is very early in the morning. General rules are to stay 6 feet away from others, do no spit or touch your face and if you can, wear a bandana or mask to make other around you feel more comfortable and protect yourself.
If you had a spring marathon planned, should you try and stay in peak shape until your race? If not, how should you manage your fitness and running?
With all races being canceled I utilize running as something that brings me joy and no stress whatsoever. Training for a marathon can be mentally and physically exhausting. Putting stress on yourself during times like this can stress you out even more.
With that said, I make sure that my time on the road right now is fun and almost therapeutic for me. While I’m running (solo) I am able to focus on myself. Trying not to think about everything that’s going on.
I’m maintaining my fitness and running for sure but with less stress. If I miss a long run because I don’t feel like doing it, I’m more forgiving with myself all the things considered.
Given that gyms are closed, do you have any recommended exercises for mimicking the gym at home?
When I learned my beloved gym is closing I tried to find as much home equipment online as possible. Obviously, everything sold out quickly. I have a few weights at home now, as well as a bar and some kettlebells, but I have to be creative with my workouts since there is no leg press, machines, a squat rack or anything like that. What I’m doing now is working on my skills. Sure it’s not perfect working out from home. That’s good though! So I learn how to do things better and become really good at this specific skill.
I stopped whining about not being able to go to the gym after a few days and told myself that I want to become really good at this (working out from home). I’ve been crushing my home workouts with simple exercises like deadlifts, different squats, lunges, upper body work with dumbells or simple body weight exercises. I run up the stairs in my building and replace the stairmaster with that.I keep my routines and workout at the same time during the day that I used to, I put my gym clothes on, shut the door and kill it.
What have you been doing to stay in shape given social distancing norms?
Keeping my daily routines when it comes to working out, running and my diet. I had the choice, and I wanted to stick to my regimen. I still run 4-5 times a week and do my weightlifting from home 5 days a week. With the fridge only being a few feet away it is definitely harder not to snack but I’m getting better at it every day.
As much as it sucks to be stuck at home, I’ll tell myself every day how lucky I am to be healthy, to still have a job and be able to workout. More than ever this is a blessing for me which I am beyond grateful for.
Anything else you want to add?
For everyone who is really struggling right now, I want to invite you to contact me for guidance and motivation. We’re in this together and I would love to help everyone that I can. Now is the time to focus and stay strong. If I can be a part of your journey I’m more than happy to be by your side
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Eric’s Current Running Gear
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