The new outdoor exercise rules
Hopefully, you’ve been making the most of the sunshine to exercise outside in recent weeks. Our founder Kate has been enjoying long walks and bike rides near her home in Devon and the KBPT team is now back training clients outdoors – following the 2-metre rule and armed with anti-bac spray and hand sanitiser, of course!
As the risk of transmission from coronavirus (COVID-19) is much less from seeing people outside at a distance of 2 meters than inside, the UK Government recently announced changes to outdoor exercise. So, what are the new rules and how can you get yourself motivated as we move into summer?
Can I exercise with my friends?
You’re now allowed to spend time outdoors with up to six people from different households, following social distancing guidelines. So, yes, you can exercise with a small group of friends in your garden, your local park or another outside space as long as it’s possible to maintain a 2-metre gap from each other.
Am I allowed to play sports?
Some sports, such as tennis and golf, are now possible. If you play a team sport like football or basketball, you can train outdoors with up to six people (e.g. fitness conditioning and ball skills). You must follow social distancing guidelines at all times. It’s also recommended that you don’t share any equipment and that you up your hand hygiene.
Should I wear a face covering when I exercise outdoors?
Face coverings aren’t compulsory in the UK but you’re advised to wear them in enclosed public spaces, such as the tube or bus. It’s up to you if you wear a face covering while you exercise outdoors but there are some things to bear in mind – this CNET article provides useful advice.
Find out more about the rules for outdoor exercise on the UK Government website
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Three fitness challenges to get you moving
1. #RWRunStreak
Runner’s World Summer Run Streak gets you running one mile every day. As the organizers say, “One daily mile is more powerful than you can imagine. It represents your strength to self-motivate, crush all excuses, and follow through on your goals.” Find out more on the Runner’s World website and share your progress on Twitter and Instagram using #RWRunStreak.
2. #BikeWeekUK
Why not get on your bike for #7DaysofCycling during Bike Week (6-14 June)? Whether it’s a pootle around the park or some off-roading in the woods, you’ll enjoy the fresh air and improve your fitness. But you’ll also have an even greater impact. “Cycling is an incredible solution to many challenges… More cycling could help fix air pollution, obesity, poor mental health and traffic congestion,” says Cycling UK. Get all the info on the Bike Week website.
3. #HomeTeamHero
“While the world waits… let’s remember, now is the time to keep moving, to pull together, to share skills, positivity and hope.” Powerful words from Adidas, the organizers of the #HomeTeamHero COVID-19 fundraising campaign, which took place recently. Although the fundraising element is now over, you can still find lots of inspiring content on the campaign website, including workouts by sprinter Noah Lyles and long jumper Jazmin Sawyers.
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If you’d like to find out about KBPT’s outdoor PT sessions (for individuals and pairs), contact Kate.
