Don’t let lockdown be a let-down

What I’m doing to keep myself mentally and physically positive during Covid-19

PART 2

Don’t let lockdown be a let-down – WORK

Work is my passion but my job role is now completely different. The personal part of personal trainer has been removed. But that doesn’t mean that I can’t be productive. Everything is online now so I have been doing Zoom 121 sessions (virtual personal training) and writing an infinite amount of online programs.I started a WhatsApp group where my clients could share ideas and I could give them workout ideas to do. I’m also providing meal plan ideas. My clients are writing down a list of goals that they want to achieve which I am reviewing.

With AYOSC I really wanted to try and relieve the stress on business partners. Laura, Izzy and Matt are all key workers and I knew from the outset that they will be going through incredibly trying times right now. I assured them that I would take over all the work with the business. We have many exciting projects which are coming out soon and I’ve really enjoyed being involved. I’ve also been doing weekly recorded interviews with them to see how Covid-19 has been affecting them on the front-line. They’re a great watch so if you have time then please have a watch.

Don’t let lockdown be a let-down – EXERCISE

Exercise for me has always been my therapy. It’s my way of forgetting about all my stresses and focussing on the moment and on what I’m trying to achieve. I wrote out a program for myself and set myself some achievable goals. I know that if I work on my imbalances now then I’m going to be in the best position possible to become stronger coming out of this.

From a strength perspective its more important than ever to focus on mobility and stability. I make sure that I do a daily stretching routine and a daily strength/cardio workout. We’re all going to be sitting around more and its so important to keep ourselves mobile. There is lots of online content out there and personally I love using the workouts from TV.FIT. My daily walk is crucial too. The fresh air (occasional sun in Scotland) are invaluable right now. For mind, body and soul, nature is the greatest medicine but just remember to stay local and keep your distance! Remember that exercising doesn’t need to be a chore or for a long duration. Find something that you enjoy and keep it fun.

Don’t let lockdown be a let-down – NUTRITION

I’m really trying to keep my normal balanced approach to food. I make sure that I prepare all my foods in advance and I know each day what I’m going to have. My suggestion would be to batch cook your meals. A Stir Fry can be turned into so many different meals and its cheap and easy to do.

I’ll set my macros and I’ll prioritise hitting my protein goals. I know if I’m having enough protein in my diet then I’m less likely to snack on junk and I’ll feel fuller throughout the day. I’m always tracking how much water that I’m having too. Keeping hydrated will help in so many ways. Improving concentration, decreasing appetite and improving digestion are just a few of the reasons. Don’t worry about being perfect but just focus on consistency and balance.

Don’t let lockdown be a let-down – HOBBIES & INTERESTS

I really wanted to try something new with this time off so I started an Instagram page called ‘Coaches Covid Connection’. I’ve used this to reach out, interview other coaches that I have never met and ask them what they have been doing themselves and for their business since the lockdown. Its been great to connect with like minded people and hear some inspirational stories.

I also wanted to help the community in some small way so I started a Facebook page called ‘Mobility with Wee Maw’. I know there are so many older people out there right now who need a friendly face and some inspiration for exercise. My talented wee mum is doing some daily stretching and mobility exercises with me and I’m sharing it with the group. It’s completely free and has been a huge hit with the older generation.

I’m also enjoying catching up with friends over Facetime, watching all those movies which I never got around to seeing and most importantly enjoying a good nap now and again.

So far, the days have been flying by and I’m enjoying having a balanced routine again. I’m going to have down days and unproductive days and you know what……. that’s absolutely OKAY! As long as overall I can focus on being productive, proactive and have a sense of ease with the situation then everything is going to work out. Take it a day at a time, don’t put pressure on yourself and only focus on what you can control and not what you can’t.

Be safe and keep smiling.

Grant