A Strathaven gym owner has stressed the importance of exercise during lockdown.
Last Monday, the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, placed mainland Scotland in lockdown for the month of January.
The announcement meant that all non-essential businesses, including gyms were to close.
The Stay Home message was reintroduced with people being told to work from home wherever possible and schools closed.
So now many people across the area join thousands across the country who are trying to
move seamlessly between their roles of teacher, parent, colleague, manager, carer all in the same day – whilst at home.
And due to this, Lucy Dawson of Strathaven FTPT is urging locals to ensure that they take time out of their day to exercise in a bid to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Lucy told the News : “January is a tough time for a lot of people.
“After indulging at Christmas and New Year you start the year feeling sluggish, so people join the gym and re-start their exercise plans to feel better physically and mentally.
“But this January, we are in the middle of a pandemic and the country has been placed back in lockdown.
“Gyms are closed, schools are closed, people are working from home and it can all be a bit daunting.
“So it is vitally important people take time out of their day and exercise.
“The release of endorphins will instantly make you feel better and you’ll be improving your fitness – which is a great way to lower your chances of catching the virus.”
Lucy knows all too well the struggles of juggling a number of roles whilst at home in lockdown, but thanks her members for giving her a purpose each day.
She explained: “Although the gym is closed, we still have online classes and we had outdoor group sessions when they were permitted, so technically I was working from home.
“I am currently studying so I am juggling that
with work and, like everyone, keeping their house in order. But I take the time out each day to make sure that I make the time for myself.
“You have to invest in your lifestyle. It’s simple and I know people say it all the time, but eating well, drinking plenty water, getting a decent sleep and exercising regularly all set you up for positive physical and mental wellbeing.
“A simple 20 to 30 minute HIIT cardio class can really burn a serious amount of calories, increase blood-flow and make you feel better over-all.”
For more information on Strathaven FTPT, visit their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ftptstrathaven
