Exercise and Connect

Keep up physical activity and interaction with others during quarantine.

Jen Hawkinger, MPH

Dionyse Hartmann, RN

Staying physically active improves mood, boosts energy and promotes better sleep. Staying active is especially important right now when stress is high and gyms are closed. Fortunately, you can exercise at home with online workout routines, without any equipment or with things you already have. Before starting a new exercise routine, and especially if you have any underlying medical conditions, remember to check in with your primary care provider.

Here are some resources to help you stay active during quarantine:

TeensHealth offers easy exercises for teens, and they’re also good for adults.
The YMCA offers free exercise videos for adults, including cardio, strength and yoga.
Online yoga resources abound; some are free while others are fee-based. Yoga Bharati offers free videos. Do Yoga With Me is offering two months for free during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The National Institute on Aging offers free workout videos and a sample exercise routine.
If you’re a senior, SilverSneakers may be part of your Medicare Advantage Plan, including on-demand fitness videos. Check your eligibility.

For motivation, consider setting up a group challenge with your friends, family and coworkers using an app such as Fitbit or Couch to 5k.

Don’t forget walking and running outdoors, too. Wear a mask in case you encounter other people, and keep at least 6 feet apart.

Stay Socially Connected

Staying connected to others is crucial to mental health. Here’s how:

Schedule calls and video chats with family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers to combat loneliness.
If you’re out walking, it’s OK to wave and say hello to your neighbors! Just keep at least 6 feet of physical distance between you and other people.
Play an online game with friends.
If your children are at home with you, use this time to really connect. Read aloud, play board games, cook or start a DIY (do-it-yourself) project together. Call relatives together to keep everyone connected.
Spirituality can positively impact your health. Check if your religious community is meeting online for prayer, meditation or a service.

As you adjust to and cope with the changes brought about by COVID-19, please remember to contact your local Community Health Resource Centers for assistance. If you’re a Palo Alto Medical Foundation patient, call your nearest CHRC or submit an online request. We’re always happy to help.

Written by: Jen Hawkinger, MPH and Dionyse Hartmann, RN

Reviewed by: Steven Johnson, PA-C

Last reviewed: March 31, 2020

DISCLAIMER: Sutter Health does not endorse or recommend any of the outside resources mentioned in this article. These resources are meant to assist you in achieving a greater understanding of general health issues and are not intended to be a substitute for medical care. We do not recommend any particular treatment option. These resources do not represent all that is available on a given health topic. We strongly encourage you to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional regarding any questions about your specific health concerns.