All the gyms are closed, but that’s no reason to stop working out. There is no way to know how long the shelter in place orders could last and we all need a way to stay fit. Summer is just around the corner and although we may be pale from our long stint indoors, it doesn’t mean we have to be out of shape, too.
In order to take care of yourself in this time of stress, turmoil and uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is best to double down and discipline yourself into healthy habits. It would be extremely easy to become lethargic and treat yourself to extra sweets or television, but that’s not going to help your physical or mental health in the long run.
What is actually best for you during this time is setting a series of small goals that help you stay on track and create a structure to your days amid so much uncertainty.
Here are five apps and programs that can help you achieve your goal a day at a time. All of these programs offer workouts with little to no equipment since they are meant to be done at home.
- Peloton
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Peloton is normally $12 per month, but now that gyms are closed it is offering a 90-day free trial. Peloton has several categories for workouts: running, outdoor, strength, cycling, yoga, meditation, stretching, boot camp, walking, and cardio. In addition, to the numerous categories, it also has several programs that range from two to six weeks. I am just beginning the two-week Outdoor Running program. This is always the highlight of my day since running and walking are allowed as long as you continue to stay six feet away from others. So far I am really enjoying it, and they play upbeat music to encourage a quick pace. This is paired with motivational comments from the instructor to maintain a positive attitude. Peloton’s app has several workouts and programs that involve no equipment so this would be the perfect time to try out their 90-day free trial. Peloton is available on all Apple and Android devices, on Amazon and on Peloton’s website. Just remember to put a reminder on your phone to cancel in case you lose interest or the program just isn’t for you. It can be annoying to see an extra charge from a forgotten subscription.
- BetterMe
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BetterMe is only available on the Apple App Store. It has individual meal plans curated for each person. For the workouts, you can choose programs that work your core, arms, legs or all three. The workouts are consistently updated. The app costs about $9.99 per month and it gives you new workouts each day that get harder as you progress through the program. Each program you choose runs for 28 days. These guided daily workouts take approximately 30 minutes each day, which easily fit into a busy student schedule. Additionally, I used this app all of 2019 and saw great results. I lost about 10 pounds while targeting my problem areas. I loved the recommendations for healthy meals which led me to cook a lot more. However, the price may be a deal-breaker for some, so check out the next app for a free option!
- FitOn
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I love FitOn! It is completely FREE! You can pay for a premium version for added features, however, you get free access to all of their workouts without paying a cent. The premium plan provides access to their personalized meal plans, premium music stations, offline downloads of their workout classes and the ability to connect to your Fitbit or Garmin. FitOn decreased its price from $69.99 annually to $19.99, which is only $1.67 per month due to gyms closing. If you want a premium app without the price, this is the one for you. With the price drop, I’m definitely considering purchasing the premium version. Each week it gives you three new workouts and similar to other apps, FitOn’s workouts become more difficult as you progress. My personal favorite is the Bikini Body Burn workout, which is 21 minutes long. Even though it is short it will have you sweating by the end. It is a full-body workout that burns about 200 calories. Another workout I love is Barre Strong. This workout helps with flexibility and balance, which works the whole body. It is 20 minutes long and burns about 150 calories. It incorporates dance elements and is led by a fantastic instructor who is upbeat, fun and motivates you through the whole exercise. I love this app because of the huge variety of workouts such as cardio, toning, strength, no equipment, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and circuits just to name a few. Also, the instructors are great and keep every workout fresh!
- Daily Burn
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Another way to get premium workouts for free is through Daily Burn’s 30-day free trial. They have sections for cardio, HIIT, strength, core and so much more. Depending on your level of activity, Daily Burn will make suggestions for the best workouts for you along with the right level of difficulty. Daily Burn can be done on your laptop, tv or through the app, which is available to Android and Apple users.
- Beachbody on Demand
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First off, a quick disclosure, I have not tried this workout; however, it is next on my list! Beachbody on Demand (BOD) is doing a 14-day free trial. BOD has a philosophy for its two-week free trial: the creators of this workout claim you can lose up to 9 pounds in two weeks with their program, by giving you a two-week trial, you are supposed to see results before you buy. Their homepage features people who have lost weight using their program. You can access BOD on all Apple devices, Amazon Fire Stick, Roku and through the website. Due to the positive reviews and the access to 1,200 workouts, I think that this program would be worth a shot. Also, who doesn’t want a beach body, right?
Do not let COVID-19 deter you from your goals. A long run and at-home workout session help me feel positive and optimistic during this chaotic time. I hope that each of you can find something that makes you feel happy and proud of yourself!