BY KAYLA GATES
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted almost every aspect of everyday life. For athletes, this means that participating in physical activity has become more of a challenge. In light of the situation, professionals are sharing methods on how athletes can stay active at home.
The outbreak of COVID-19 at the start of 2020 has temporarily altered the world of sports. Both national and international leagues have halted or postponed competition. For many student-athletes, school closures have prevented the completion of their seasons.
With parks, gyms and sports facilities also closed in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus, most athletes no longer have an outlet for practicing their sport. However, many are getting creative with the ways in which they stay physically active during the government-mandated quarantine.
Professional athletes have taken to social media in order to motivate others to follow suit. Their methods include practicing their sport at home in unconventional ways. Many are sharing their at-home workouts in hopes of motivating others to do the same.
“I am sending love and positivity to everyone staying at home during this health crisis.”
Toronto Raptors player Serge Ibaka
“I am sending love and positivity to everyone staying at home during this health crisis,” Toronto Raptors player Serge Ibaka said. “I hope some of you feel inspired to exercise at home and to stay healthy and in shape.”
However, the movement to stay productive has not been limited to professionals. In fact, athletes of all levels are encouraged to partake in some form of physical activity. Experts note that staying in shape at this time is vital to maintaining one’s health, especially with the threat of COVID-19.
“This is the right time people need to do more active things, not just sitting around,” chief of the Division of Clinical Nutrition Dr. Zhaoping Li said. “Take this opportunity to do self-examination, self-inspection and self-care.”
CCHS student-athletes have already accepted the challenge, participating in physical activity from the confines of their home. Members of various sports have taken a personal initiative to stay active during the newly imposed offseason.
For sports that require running, athletes have taken their training from the track to the sidewalks within their neighborhoods. While they are still encouraged to follow the six feet apart guideline by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when out in the community, athletes can safely workout outdoors by being cautious.
“You definitely have to be mindful of your health by staying six feet away from anyone.”
Sophomore and cross country team member Dylan Bober
“I usually do jogging workouts most days of the week,” sophomore and cross country team member Dylan Bober said. “You definitely have to be mindful of your health by staying six feet away from anyone.”
Athletes with proper equipment at home have the opportunity to practice their sport directly on their property. Whether it be throwing a football, kicking a soccer ball or shooting a basketball, students have gotten creative with the ways they are staying in shape.
“Quarantine has been pushing me to stay in shape despite my desire to stay in bed all day,” sophomore and water polo player Kiara Ryan said. “I’ve tried swimming at least three times a week to have some physical activity and prepare for next year’s tryouts.”
While other sports may require equipment that many do not have access to at home, athletes are still encouraged to lead their own workouts by simply stretching. While the activity may not be as strenuous, the movement allows athletes to stay healthy.
The coronavirus pandemic has cast a shadow of defeat for the sports world. However, athletes of all levels are making the best of the situation by staying active at home. Despite the situation, professionals have found solutions to this aspect of everyday life.
Photo by Anabella Garcia
