Online Fitness Resources
Gyms in England have recently reopened, following months of closure to help limit the spread of coronavirus. This is great news to some - the gym is often a welcome escape from the chaos of everyday life, with lots of us enjoying the social aspect of working out this way¹. However, the past few months have seen a huge increase in some fantastic home workout resources, which are both highly convenient and accessible. So if you’re not ready to face the gym yet, or simply want to exercise at home, there are plenty of options out there!
Throughout the coronavirus crisis, experts have continually recommended exercising due to its benefits on physical and mental health ² ³ ⁴. Therefore if you’re struggling with the effects of the ever-changing pandemic struck world, now could be a great time to get moving.
And it seems like many have done just that! A recent study in Belgium, looking at exercise frequency during the coronavirus crisis, found that many people exercised as much as, or more than they did before lockdown⁵. However, those who haven’t been utilising online exercise resources reported being less active than pre-lockdown⁵, highlighting the potential benefit of these resources.
Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite online workouts. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a self-proclaimed fitness fanatic, there is sure to be something for you!
FREE
YouTube:
The Body Coach - For the nation’s favourite PE lessons. Plus, HIIT workouts galore! And even a few videos for the seniors amongst us.
Yoga with Adriene - For budding yogis! In the current climate, we love her ‘yoga for anxiety’.
The Fitness Marshall - For dancing the blues away! Caleb leads quick, fun and easy to follow routines.
POPSUGAR Fitness - For variety. Hundreds of different exercise classes!
Apps:
FitOn - For a workout variety from celeb trainers! You can even workout with friends via the app and get a personalised plan. We can’t believe it’s free!
Couch to 5k - For a beginners running plan. A 9 week plan developed by the NHS, designed to get you running 5k without stopping.
Instagram:
There are plenty of great trainers who regularly post workouts on instagram. @activelyautoimmune and @theinfluencehealth lead great sessions for those who struggle with exercise due to ill health, whilst @aliceliveing’s daily morning workouts are perfect for those looking to step it up - her enthusiastic nature will have you raring to go in no time!
@aliceliveing
@activelyautoimmune
@curveswithmoves
@tallyrye
@courtneyfearon_
@theinfluencehealth
@bradleysimmonds
@shona_vertue
@nez_healthhub
MEMBERSHIPS & SUBSCRIPTIONS
Apps:
Fiit - For training smarter. This app can track your heart rate and reps through compatible devices, allowing you to compete in live leaderboard classes and record personal bests.
Les Mills On Demand - For gym classes at home. If you’ve ever been a member at a gym, chances are you’ve heard of Les Mills classes! They include classes such as BodyCombat, BodyBalance and BodyPump.
Peloton - For keen cyclists and exercise enthusiasts alike. With multiple membership options, you don’t even have to purchase the peloton bike to get started!
Jennis - For fitness, pregnancy and postnatal programmes. Designed by Jessica Ennis-Hill and experts physiotherapists.
Websites & online memberships:
Barrecore - For ballet fitness. No experience necessary!
Lucy Mountain’s Nobs Guide - For 12 week PT led home work-out plans that are neighbour friendly (no jumping)!
Lorna Marie Fitness - For an online squad. Zoom group classes mean you’re not missing out on social interaction and might even get a glimpse of some cute pets too! Classes range from holistic yoga to HIIT and even themed cycle classes.
NHS Fitness Studios Exercise Videos - For accessible options. There are chair based exercises and pilates for different health concerns included in the free-to-access videos.