With the shelter-in-place affecting a lot of our routines, staying fit and in shape has become more of a challenge. Aside from the temptation to Netflix and binge eat, not all of us have the equipment to work out with, or have a lot of ideas on where to get started. Take a look at how you can keep fit and continue exercising even while at home!

Try Virtual

If you are used to having someone guide you through the motions, there are plenty of options and apps where you can have a virtual trainer to help keep you on track. We love Tone It Up, which offer free workouts and meditations in their app, plus the website also provides nutrition plans, recipes you can use, as well as weekly scheduled workouts. This one-stop-fitness shop even features an online store where you can purchase meal plans as well as fitness apparel and accessories. Want to find the best app for you? Check out these other options for online fitness programs.

Go for A Walk

Walking is an underrated exercise, but it is a highly effective physical activity, and may be as good a workout as running. Apart from being a lower impact exercise, it can be done for longer periods of time compared to running. Researchers also compared the results from the National Runners’ Health Study with the National Walkers’ Health Study and they found that the energy used for moderate-intensity walking and vigorous-intensity running resulted in similar reductions in risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease over the study’s six year period. If you’re within walking distance of Marin’s many beautiful hiking areas, make use of these spots for your daily trek! No open areas nearby? Check out this YouTube channel by Leslie Sansone, which features quick routines you can do even in small spaces.

Get on the Mat

The Yoga mat that is. One of the best exercise option for beginners, yoga is offers multiple benefits for any age and level, including improving flexibility, building muscle strength, and increasing blood flow. One study also found that a consistent yoga practice improved depression and led to a significant increase in serotonin levels and a decrease in the levels of monoamine oxidase and cortisol. There are a number of yoga apps like Glo which you can download to help you get started on your “om”-azing journey. Some Marin County yoga studios like Marin Power Yoga and Embrace Yoga Marin also offer online classes and live streaming videos.

Dance Your Heart Out

If you like moving to the beat, dancing is a fun and entertaining way to burn calories and get your heart rate going. Find music you like and put your dancing shoes on with your loved ones. Since you’ll be dancing from the comforts of your home, you don’t need to worry or be conscious about missing steps as well. RoCo Dance offers online classes you can sign up with and join through their live streaming program. Want to give dancing a try before signing up for anything? Check out this 30-minute Zumba Routine.