Pandemic Fallout: Sedentary Lifestyle

There have been many harmful aftereffects resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to spread and infect people worldwide. As it was a novel virus, we initially had few defenses to prevent severe illness. Now that it has reached nearly every part of the globe, many of our bodies have developed some recognition of the virus, and its ability to spread rapidly has lessened. Aside from mutations that may make the virus stronger, many of us now have immune systems that are better prepared to fight it and recover more quickly when we encounter it again.

However, it may be something we must always be prepared to protect ourselves from. People who are ill should be thoughtful and forward-thinking, choosing to stay home when sick, as viruses cannot spread easily without a new host in which to reproduce.

As the initial wave of COVID-19 hit, we responded by staying home for both business and leisure. We restricted our movement in an effort to resolve the crisis and save as many lives as possible. During this time, there was an increase in sedentary lifestyles—a trend that still persists. Places where we typically engaged in physical activity closed or required uncomfortable masks, which deterred many from getting the movement and exercise they needed.

This significant decrease in activity has led—and will continue to lead—to increased health problems and reduced physical capability for many. Our bodies need movement and challenge to maintain and improve. This, among other indirect consequences of the pandemic, still affects us. While some people found creative ways to stay active, we can all benefit from honestly assessing how active we are now compared to before the pandemic. Are we at our previous level? Or are we 10, 20, or possibly even 50% (or more) less active than we were?

If we can acknowledge that our activity levels have decreased by any percentage, it may be long overdue to make some changes. Many people are still hesitant to leave their homes or visit crowded places, which is entirely understandable. It is a risk—like many things in life—and as we approach fall and winter, when microbial infections historically rise, those risks increase. This time of year, we are also typically less inclined to be physically active. But do we want to add another 8 months of negligible activity?

If we don’t use our bodies and stay active, our muscles will shrink, our bones will weaken, and our reflexes will slow. Additionally, our risk for various health conditions and diseases increases. Our bodies need to be challenged to improve. As a species, we possess great intelligence and an instinct to survive. When confronted with restrictions and fewer opportunities, we can overcome them with creativity and intellect. We must adapt and keep moving in order to live well.

The outdoors remains relatively safe, as it’s fairly easy to avoid groups of people. Choosing non-peak hours is another effective way to reduce exposure to viruses and other microbes. Increasing our at-home workout options is also a great alternative—starting with basic equipment like dumbbells and push-up handles, and gradually building up from there. Involving our children and others close to us is equally important—they, too, need to stay active.

Consider your current level of activity and fitness compared to how active you were before the pandemic. Have you formed new habits like getting food delivered, working from home, and enjoying all your entertainment indoors? If so, are you replacing the effort and movement those activities used to require with alternative forms of activity? If not, it may be time to increase your movement and return to exercise. Doing so will improve how you look and feel—and it will motivate you to achieve even more in life.

Live Well!

Alexander Pierce, CPT

Author of Well-Rounded Mind Health Fitness