Three months ago, Virtual Happy Hours, Netflix binges, and shower skipping were all the rage. Fast forward to the present and we’re picking out masks to match our outfit before going out, our Netflix playlist is near zero, and online meetings?? Well…let’s just says there are some very creative excuses as to why someone can’t meet up online (dying your hair, dog ate your computer camera, poor Internet connection, out-out-of-the-country…wait…out of the what?)
As states lift restrictions on personal travel, parks start to open and other activities resume – people are starting to move around a bit more under local health and safety guidelines encouraging individuals to wear masks indoors, maintain social distance and staying home if you are sick.
However, with COVID cases still very much in the news, the meetings and events industry remain predominantly in a virtual space. The days of walking around a hotel or convention center, logging 20K+ steps between sessions and running to find a lost speaker or fix a microphone mishap are on pause right now
So…how do you get physical…while still being stuck in the virtual?
We asked a few Kinsley experts to share their tips:
1. Schedule It (Andrea, Vice President)
As a planner, I live and die by my calendar! If it is not on the calendar…it doesn’t happen.
- Conference calls? On there. - Dentist appointments? On there. - Netflix Binge?? On there. - Workouts --- ON THERE!
I find that if I block off time on my calendar, I’m making a “formal” commitment that day to get my workout done. Plus putting it on my calendar ensures that no one schedules something during that time, meaning I have nothing else to do at that time but put on my running shoes and move!
2. Go Hard…Go Easy…Just Go (Megan, Senior Meeting Architect)
I’m doing this incredible online workout program that includes everything from cardio, weight training, Pilates, yoga, agility and more.
For the most part, I have no problem knocking it out each day. However, there are some days I just don’t feel like giving 100% - and you know what? I don’t! But I do give it something.
I know on most days I am going to nail my workouts and my energy will be through the roof. On others? Not so much. But no matter the energy level that day, getting in some form of exercise makes me feel better all the time.
3. Phone a Friend (Allison, Chief Meeting Architect)
Instead of Zooming with my family and friends, I’ve discovered taking them along for my walks is so much better!
With so many of my meetings and event industry friends and our two kids living in separate states, taking time to catch up with them while walking around our neighborhood is a win-win situation. The time flies by as I hear about what is going on their lives and share our news. Before you know it I’ve already logged a few miles, a few stories and several laughs!
4. Get up and Get ‘er Done (Cary, Meeting Architect)
I wake up at 5:15 a.m. each morning and start my workout at 5:30 a.m. Tackling it first thing in the morning before the kids get up or work gets underway ensures I get it done!
Is it pleasant to wake up that early? Umm….NO. Let me repeat that – NO. I do not like getting up that early. But I ask myself each morning when the alarm clock goes off and I’m tempted go back to sleep --- “how will I feel at 7:00 a.m. sipping my morning coffee? Would I regret not working out?” In most cases the answer is yes, and so I drag myself out of bed and start moving! I never regret it.
No matter what approach, sneaking in some physical activity these days as most of us are stuck behind screens can not only improve your health, but can bolster your mood and productivity. So set your alarm, call up an old friend, write it down and get out there.
Tell us your trick to get in a workout these days!