We all like to be outdoors, but the current situation means that we have to find new ways to get outdoors when and where we can.
Although Health Canada asks us to stay at home as much as possible, it also invites us to go out for exercise, but by staying close to our home. How to continue training outdoors without harming public health? We asked Dr. George Farjou, an Ontario infectious disease specialist, for advice on how to take advantage of spring despite the physical distancing measures imposed to deal with COVID-19.
“Exercise is good for mental and physical health,” says Dr. Farjou. Physical distancing measures may remain in place for several weeks or even months, but it is not realistic to wait for things to return to normal before doing the activities that are good for our body and our body. mind. “
Note: Since the situation is changing rapidly, it is important to always follow the most recent guidelines of local public health authorities. Only follow our advice if: you have no symptoms of COVID-19, have not been diagnosed with COVID-19, have not traveled outside Canada in the past 14 days and do not belong not to a high risk group ( see details provided by Health Canada ).
Keep your distance
When you go out, practice physical distance by staying at least two meters away from others. “Exercising in crowded places is not a good idea right now,” says Dr. Farjou. Two meters is the equivalent of:
- three road bike wheels placed one behind the other;
- the size of an adult grizzly bear;
- the distance of a ski pole held at arm’s length (if the tip can touch another person, you are too close).
Going out solo (or with the people you live with) is perfectly acceptable. Take this opportunity to move with your family or your roommates. Go running while your children pedal by your side, go out for a walk with your dog, or invite your roommate to take a bike ride. On sidewalks and narrow paths, respect the personal space of others – two meters, remember – by refraining from overtaking them closely.
Avoid group activities, such as cycling or group trips, and do not carpool with people who do not live with you to get to the trails.
