Anyone used to working out at the gym or outdoors is now faced with the challenge of exercising at home during quarantine. Lack of motivation, space and equipment could become a problem, but Algarve councils are here to help.
In order to encourage the population to stay active at home, they have started online workout classes.
PortimĂŁo is hosting online classes for yoga, Pilates, pop dance for children, Zumba and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Classes are held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and are live streamed at 9.30am on the âPortimĂŁo Mais Desporto para Todosâ Facebook page or on the councilâs YouTube channel, where a full list of workout classes can be found – https://tinyurl.com/PORTIMAO-DESPORTO-ONLINE
A similar scheme has been launched by Lagoa Council, which is also using its online platforms (Facebook and YouTube) to share a series of workout classes for children, adults and seniors, including gymnastics, HIIT, aerobics, yoga and Zumba.
LoulĂ© has also uploaded home workout plans on its website dedicated to sport – www.louledesporto.com/pdef/
New exercises are added every Monday and Thursday, with the intensity increasing each week.
Meantime, MAR Shopping in LoulĂ© has also come up with a series of daily online workout videos, including HIIT classes, step and stairs, recharge, resistance band and fitball. Classes take place each morning at 10am on the shopping centreâs Facebook and Instagram pages.
According to the World Health Organisationâs Regional Office for Europe, staying at home for prolonged periods of time can pose a âsignificant challenge for remaining physically activeâ.
âSedentary behaviour and low levels of physical activity can have negative effects on the health, wellbeing and quality of life of individuals. Self-quarantine can also cause additional stress and challenge the mental health of citizens. Physical activity and relaxation techniques can be valuable tools to help you remain calm and continue to protect your health during this time,â says the organisation.
WHO recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, or a combination of both. These recommendations can still be achieved even at home, with no special equipment and with limited space.
