Working out at home has become more popular. In fact, being physically fit (to lace up and get started) is more vital than ever. If you want a different tomorrow, you must work harder than you did yesterday.
The noble coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has forced a nationwide lockdown, resulting in both negative and positive diet/physical activity-related adjustments. Physical fitness is not only necessary for a healthy body, but also for a healthy mind and emotional well-being. Sedentary behaviours (long hours of sitting during Work From Home), increased screen time (over-the-top media service binge sessions), emotional eating, increased snacking frequency (mid-morning & after dinner), decreased water intake, vitamin D deficiency, and a disturbed sleep pattern (lower sleep quality) are a few known risk factors for low levels of physical activity and being overweight/obese.
Working out at home has become more popular. In fact, being physically fit (to lace up and get started) is more vital than ever. If you want a different tomorrow, you must work harder than you did yesterday. Various apps and websites are now making it possible for many people to engage in physical activity in a convenient, cost-effective, and accessible manner (PA). The use of fitness trackers and pedometers, as well as wearable PA trackers, may allow people to exercise and increase their PA levels in accordance with current recommendations. People who have trouble sleeping have begun to prioritise health and exercise in order to burn resistant fat. Although the classes are virtual, participants can select from a choice of trainers, styles (dance, pilates, HIIT, lifting weights, working with resistance bands, yoga, or meditation), and class lengths, just as if they were in the studio. Experts, however, warn that people should take it slow to avoid fitness-related injuries & over-training.
Virtual fitness (VF) is often regarded as the most valuable combination of digital technology and physical activity (exercise programming). Digital fitness platforms illustrate how advanced technology, such as motion sensors and real-time performance tracking, is transforming the offline experience into an online experience. The tech revolution is unmistakable for movement instructors, fitness experts, and wellness coaches. According to research, it is critical to engage in all four types of exercises: endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Each has its own set of advantages and problems for keeping us physically healthy. Doing one type can increase your ability to do the others, and variation helps reduce boredom and, if necessary, harm risk. VF professionals blend a range of exercise styles, also known as sweat sessions, such as dance, cardio, and strength.
- For dancers that enjoy a good workout while listening to a range of musical styles such as pop, hip hop, salsa, and others.
- Zumba takes the “work” out of working out by combining low and high-intensity dances for an interval-style, calorie-burning dance fitness workout.
- Crossfire is a high-intensity workout that uses various joint movements and full-body workouts to enhance metabolism.
The demand to stay connected digitally has intensified as we strive to improve our physical and mental wellness through virtual workouts. Motivation is primarily driven by three factors: comparison, social reward, and emotional support. VF lessons have proven to be more effective for almost all people to engage in exercises in their own homes throughout the pandemic. VF lessons are an excellent way to help the community at a time when people want both social relationships and physical activity. People are increasingly turning to online exercise sessions rather than visiting gyms, studios, and workout centres. Instructor-led VF workouts and exercises, both pre-recorded and live-streamed, are made available to everyone who wishes to prioritise their health from anywhere (through social workout apps), at any time. The virtual coach will lead you through a series of workouts that do not require any equipment to increase your strength and flexibility. Furthermore, the tech-led exercise facility may simulate being in a class with an instructor from the convenience of your own home.
According to research, it is critical to engage in all four types of exercises: endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility.
Popular digital platforms for virtual fitness classes:
- Streaming services for exercise: YouTube, Google Duo, Instagram Live, Facebook Live.
- Subscriber fitness programs free/ premium, via an app or online: FitIndia, MyFitnessPal, Fitbit, HealthifyMe, Strava, Fittr, Cultfit, Fitterfly, Workout Buddies, etc.
- Online live or recorded classes, via platforms: Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Facetime, BlueJeans, etc.
- Active electronic games: Xbox Kinect
Easy tips to make the most out of virtual fitness classes:
- Find a professionally certified trainer who caters to your fitness goals.
- Create your own workout playlist: Make it fun.
- Use a TV instead of a laptop.
- Take a trail before enrolling in a virtual training app.
- Follow a shared virtual workout plan.
- Stick to a VF schedule.
- Share your VF training screen with family & friends to stay motivated.
- Set a weekly fitness challenge.
- Invite up to 10 friends: Do your toughest workouts together.
There’s a lot to admire about VF regimens right now. These classes are growing increasingly popular among both seasoned fitness lovers and newcomers. According to a recent consumer trends survey conducted by The New Consumer, the pandemic pushed 76 percent of all customers to turn to at-home fitness.
Physical activity, whether in VF courses or outside in the fresh air and sun, may help to decrease stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and, as a result, aiding in the correct functioning of the immune system.
Pros of Virtual Fitness:
- No need for a gym: Utilize what you have (weights, a yoga mat, or a foam roller).
- Professional guidance delivered to your door: Virtual one-on-one training.
- More adaptable.
- More relaxing.
- Keeps the momentum going.
- It’s simple to connect and remain motivated.
Cons of Virtual Fitness:
- Too much liberty.
- Nobody is adjusting your form or technique, which could result in harm.
- There is no accountability.
- I’m missing my pals’ support.
- There is limited space and equipment.
- There is little interaction with the instructor or the other students in the class.
- Without an instructor or a companion to inspire you, it’s easy to become distracted.
- Increases your reliance on technology for workouts: you must have reliable internet access.
Physical activity, whether in VF courses or outside in the fresh air and sun, may help to decrease stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and, as a result, aiding in the correct functioning of the immune system. Remember that whatever you desire occurs outside of your comfort zone. People are becoming used to it, from fitness applications to online exercise programmes. Virtual is no longer a temporary substitute for the gym, but rather a new method to consume exercise. Now is the time to get the most out of your training programme.
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Composed by: “Dr. Swati Dave has done her doctorate of Foods & Nutrition. She is a Hospital Dietitian and Nutrition Expert apart from this she is a Certified Diabetes Educator.”
