Why Is Physical Activity Important During COVID-19?

Physical activity and regular exercise have always been important for optimal physical and mental health. However, recently, it’s more important than ever, thanks to the global pandemic that’s taking quite the hit on the population.

So, whether you attend yoga class twice a week, prefer a long jaunt on your road bike, or enjoy lifting weights, it’s essential to create a routine and stick to it.

This article will further explain why physical activity is important, especially during the times of Covid-19.

What counts as physical activity?

If lifting weights isn’t your thing, then don’t worry! There are plenty of other types of physical activity and exercise, including walking, running, cycling (indoor and outdoor), rowing, tennis, cricket, and many, many others.

If it gets you moving, then it’s physical. Typically, the more active the sport, the better. However, so long as you are doing something, then you should be okay!

What are the benefits of physical activity?

Exercise, such as running, releases various hormones called endorphins. These endorphins are responsible for the infamous “runners high” you may or may not have heard of.

Despite this, you can feel just as good by performing other forms of exercise, whether cycling or lifting weights.

Benefits of regular exercise include:

  • Reduce stress
  • Relieve anxiety
  • Increase your chances of fighting the virus

Each of these benefits will now be explained in more detail below:

Reduce stress with regular physical activity 

These feel-good hormones help to alleviate stress, whether from work, relationships, or family-related. 

It’s a chance to clear your head, to live in the moment, and focus on your workout.

Relieve anxiety

The same applies to anxiety – not only does exercise help you clear your head and prevent you from overthinking, but it elevates your mood and allows you to feel good.

For those suffering from anxiety, whether about the pandemic or other issues, exercise can bring a great release and escape.

Increase your chances of fighting the virus 

Finally, regular physical activity will increase your chance of fighting Covid-19 if you are to contract the virus.

This may mean you get less ill and overall, have a much better experience than someone who does not exercise.

How often should you exercise to see the benefits?

To reap the many benefits of physical activity, you need to stick at it. Ideally, you should work out a minimum of three days a week, but ideally four to five days per week, as mentioned by Healthline. Don’t worry; you can build up to this.

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