With every day that passes, it becomes clearer that we’ll all be staying inside and social distancing for several more weeks, and I hate to think about it, but possibly several more months. Things are so unpredictable and maintaining a somewhat normal schedule, including time to exercise becomes more and more important.

Most of us are used to exercising at a gym, yoga studio, or even on the sidewalk (running, walking etc.). While running and walking are fine in most places, as you all know, gyms and studios are closed with many streaming classes and coming up with new ways to encourage people to keep moving their bodies.

Like so many other things, this pandemic is forcing us to figure out how to exercise on our own, by streaming a class, watching a YouTube video, or just coming up with our own workouts. Exercise is changing from a group activity to an individual activity and we’re sweating alone these days!

Exercise should be an important part of our routines now more than ever. Working out contributes to good health, mental and physical and in turn helps to maintain a healthy immune system. We could all use a mood booster right now and exercise is known for its ability to release endorphins and make us feel better. I know for sure that on the days when I take a walk, or just do a simple workout in the house, I feel more productive and have a much better day. Being outdoors is always my preference especially on a beautiful spring day.

I recently went to Target to find a few things to make exercising inside a little easier, such as resistance bands, balls and dumbbells, only to find that the exercise aisle looked very similar to the toilet paper aisle. I did, however find a few things on Amazon that I’ve been using. I’m working on a video with resistance bands that should be up on YouTube later in the week.

If you’ve been unable to find workout gear, you can make do with household items. It’s nice to have a yoga mat, but not essential and towels make good resistance bands in a pinch. You can also use soup cans for bicep curls, or simply run up and down the steps. I’ve done squats up and down my hallway several times lately and you would be surprised what a good workout that can be and you can stop and do 15 pushups almost anywhere! I think part of what this pandemic is teaching us is how to be adaptable.

Staying motivated to workout at home might just be the hardest part so having a few cute outfits to wear might get you motivated to get up and exercise. If you’re waiting for a sudden spark of inspiration…it probably won’t come until you realize that you can’t zip your jeans, so it’s best to plan 30 - 45 minutes of exercise into your day. I promise…you won’t be sorry!

I’m wearing workout clothes from Gap in these pictures…they’re cute, comfortable and the best part is that they’re on sale! My sneakers are by Nike from Nordstrom and also on sale! Keep scrolling for a boutique of my favorite workout wear including my favorites from Tory Sport!