Pandemic Fallout: Sedentary Lifestyle

There have been many harmful aftereffects resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic that is still determined to reach and infect every person on earth. As it was a novel virus, we have had few defenses that prevent us from becoming very ill. Now that it has reached almost all areas of the globe, many of our bodies have developed some recognition of this virus, and its ability to spread quickly has reduced. Other than mutations that allow the virus to become stronger, many of us have immune systems now that are more prepared to fight and convalesce quickly when we encounter it again.

Although, it may be something that we must always be prepared to protect ourselves from and people that are ill should be thoughtful and forward thinking to stay home when they are sick as viruses cannot spread easily without a new host to reproduce in.

As the initial wave of COVID-19 hit, we reacted by staying home for business and pleasure. We restricted ourselves from freely move about the world to attempt a resolution, and to save as many lives as possible. During this time there has been an increase in sedentary lifestyles which still persists. Places where we normally achieved our physical activity closed or required uncomfortable masks which have deterred many from getting much needed movement and exercise.

This extensive decrease in activity can only result in an increase of health problems and loss of capability for many people. Our bodies need to move and be challenged to maintain and improve. This and many other indirect consequences of the pandemic are still affecting us. Some people have found creative ways to keep their activity levels up, but we can all benefit from considering how active we are now in comparison to how much we were before the pandemic started. Are we at our previous level? Or, are we 10, 20, or possible even 50% or more, less active then we were?

If we can admit to ourselves that our activity levels have reduced by any percentage, it may be long overdue to make some changes. Many people are still concerned to leave their homes and go to crowded places and this is certainly understandable. It is a risk, as with many things in life, and as we approach the fall and winter when, historically, microbial infections rise, the risks increase as well. We are also typically less inclined to be very active this time of year. But do we want to add another 8 months of negligible activity?

If we do not use our bodies and keep active our muscles will reduce in size and ability, our bones will become weaker, and our reflexes will become slower. In addition, our risk factors for health conditions and disease increases. Our bodies need to be challenged to improve. Our species has great intelligence and all living things have a drive to survive. When we are confronted with restrictions and reduced opportunities, we can overcome them with our creativity and intellect. We need to adapt and keep moving to live well.

The outdoors remains relatively safe as it is fairly easy to avoid groups of people. Non-peak hours are also great ways to avoid many people if we are trying to reduce exposure to viruses and other microbes. Increasing our home workout options is another great option. Basic things to get started like dumbbells and pushup handles, and then building up your equipment overtime. Engaging our children and others close to us is also important because they too need to be active.

Think about your activity and fitness level now, and then previous to the start of the pandemic. If you have been forming new habits like getting food delivered, working, and enjoying all your entertainment from home. Are you replacing these activities that before, required more effort and movement to accomplish them with an alternative? If not, it may be time to increase your activity and get back to exercise. This will improve how you look and feel, and it will motivate you to accomplish even more in life.

Live Well!

Alexander Pierce, CPT

Author of Well-Rounded Mind Health Fitness