#YourActiveStory - James
Just prior to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, I was fortunate enough to run the Malta Half Marathon. In training I’d managed an enjoyable mix of Sport and Wellbeing classes (mainly yoga, pilates and the odd body pump [Matt = fantastic teacher]), alongside regularly running. Two weeks later the UK entered lockdown, and after being evicted from campus, it was time to establish new routines like everyone else. On the back of high-mileage and stupidity, week 1 saw me using my daily 90 minutes of ‘daily physical activity’ for long runs, more to escape from work than for fitness or performance. The further my runs took me into Lordswood, the greater my distance, but my speed, weight and motivation hit rock bottom. As did my energy levels.
After what felt like a never-ending Bank Holiday weekend (devoid of energy and enthusiasm), I did two things: i) reconsidered my goals, and ii) learnt to embrace the enforced rest, whilst remaining active and maintaining enjoyable ‘occupations’. In week 2 my daily activity became long walks, coupled with Sport and Wellbeing online classes. These both gave structure to my working day. If the class was too high an intensity, then I’d skip it for yoga or repeat a favourite class. ‘Occupation-wise’ I tended to my small urban garden, repainted the dining table and continued cooking regularly in the evenings to calm my anxieties.
After week 3 when the April temperatures soared, I mixed things up again. At times like these, do what suits you (but is agreeable with your nearest and dearest). Out came my road bike, which I hadn’t used starting UoS just over a year ago and no longer needing to cycle commute. At Highfield Campus I value lunchtime classes at the Jubilee to structure my day. These provide an excuse to escape from work and alleviate stress; as a senior academic once said, “Schedule your active breaks/activity just as you would a research meeting or teaching - time block”. If I had no meetings in the afternoon I would cycle and compensate follow-up emails in the evening, but regardless, online classes have become a firm fixture in my calendar and an anchor point for me working from home.
In around 9 days now I will become a father. Again, I need to reconsider my goals, safe in the comfort that lockdown will soon end, fatherhood will give provide me (chaotic) ‘structure’, and once settled, albeit sleep-deprived, I will set myself a new challenge, be it running, cycling or walking. Growing up in the Lakes District instilled in me to value the outdoors; having lived in urban Southampton for 5 years green-spaces are my solace – the activity doesn’t matter. We are all in different situations and have different values. Personally I know what works for me, do what makes you feel happy, do what is necessary and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself
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Like James, if you're finding it difficult to work from home. Remember that Sport & Wellbeing have FREE online fitness classes available live on Facebook and fitness class archives Youtube. You can also receive fitness advice from the team by using #DYGCoach on Twitter. All of this information and more can also be found on our dedicated #DoesYouGood page.
Thank you for getting involved with #YourActiveStory, James. FREE headphones and a water bottle are on their way to you.