SABLE WILLIAMS
reporter

TCC exercise facilities are closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic and students are finding new ways to get physically active.

Students are turning to the internet for ideas because they must be more careful in public gyms, be aware of their surroundings and wear a mask, TR physical education instructor Kelly Broomfield said.

“This has forced students to become more creative with their workouts, using things they have at home, YouTubing or googling workouts to do in their homes instead of in public,” Broomfield said.

It is hard to stay motivated when a lot of group activities are canceled, NE student Ashley Cunningham said.“I’ve been trying to include more outdoor games to keep working out more fun.”

TCC student Beau Baker has found outdoor activities to be his new workout norm changing his whole workout routine. Baker said the last few months have been hard, and depression and stress related to the pandemic have made it difficult to find the motivation to do anything at times.

“If you are lucky enough to live by trails like me, you can still easily bike, hike, and jog whenever you want,” Baker said. Broomfield said working out is a huge stress relief and good for confidence and self-esteem, so even in the midst of students’ hectic schedules, it is important to take some time each week for self care, including physical exercise and getting outside.

“It’s especially important during these scary and unnerving times (with the pandemic) to take care of ourselves physically, emotionally and mentally,” she said.

Even just a little physical activity is better than doing nothing, Broomfield said. “If working out doesn’t come easy or naturally to you, I always recommend starting slow and having a workout partner,” she said.