Now, listen, I get it. Movement is my life. I love it in all of its incredibly sweaty glory and you might too. So I get why not being able to go to the gym, pound the pavement with your running group, take a class, or teach a class might be a big deal to you. I, too, am now sweating at home. I, too, am teaching classes from home. And I, too, am privileged to be doing so.
In the spirit of getting through this thing together, here are nine assorted tips I want to share with anyone whos thinking about their fitness right now.
I know I said it already, but Im going to say it again. Being in a position to think about your fitness goals during this time is a privilege. Take a moment to let that sink in. And I mean sink all the way in. Let it seep into your veins until you are radiating with gratitude. Your body is an incredible vessel, and movement is a blessing. So its not that you cant or shouldnt focus on your fitness goals if thats what you want and are able to do, but I do think its important to remind yourself of how fortunate you are to do so. Value and appreciate your ability and position during this chaotic time. Maybe meet yourself on your mat or living room floor with a little more compassion and rejoice in your progress with a little more awe.
Of course, understanding that our society is basically built on some of us having privilege while others don't or, even more specifically, that some people suffer so that others have certain privileges, is imperative. Social stratificationbased on race, class, gender, sexuality, size, ability, and moreis deeply woven into the fabric of this country. So whether were speaking of fitness or literally anything else, disentangling these threads of privilege necessitates acknowledgement that they do, in fact, exist and then figuring out how we can challenge the systems that continue to weave them deeper. It means being cognizant of the fact that some of us having what we need and want probably means that other people arent getting what they need and want. This pandemic is shining an extra-bright light on all of this.
If youre feeling like I often dothat merely acknowledging privileges we might have doesnt really do that much to right any wrongsI suggest doing some things to put your privileges to good use.
Think through some ways you can contribute to your community that makes use of your privilege. Can you donate money to a mutual aid fund? Can you volunteer to shop for groceries for an elderly or immune compromised person in your neighborhood? Can you sew masks or provide tutoring or other virtual services? Or, in the context of these online classes, can you donate maybe a bit extra for someone else to be able to take class?
Just because a lot of us have more time at home, it doesnt mean we are obligated to spend it working out. While everyone is on all the Insta and FB Lives, its okay if you sit out to be live in your own life. Even though I, myself, am one of the trainers/instructors offering live classes and other online offerings, I hope that you look at all these options as exactly that: options. Offerings. Opportunities. Not pressure-filled, FOMO-inducing obligations. If you sit one or two (or all) of them out, its okay. They will still be there later. And if youre just not that into working out at home, thats okay too!
Maybe nows not the time to dial in your next-level fitness goals. Maybe you couldnt even if you wanted to because you dont have access to the space or equipment youd need to do it. Thats fine. Try not to let the pressure to keep going as you always have contribute to the stress that is already surrounding us. Because it is surrounding us on every platform and channel, empty grocery store aisles, and taped-off markers on the ground. Instead, use movement for release and relief, for fun, and to keep yourself healthy when and how it best serves you.
Theres no one right way to feel now. Feeling upset about an event being canceled, to feel lost or confused about how to switch up your routine, or to be frustrated that you feel like your hard-earned progress has suddenly been thwartedthis is all natural and okay.
See more here:
Lets Talk About the Privilege and Pressure to Work Out Right Now - Self
