Lockdown hues: Some shed pounds, others take it easy

An array of memes has emerged on the social media on men being unable to button their shirt when the offices reopen. At the same time, there are a whole lot of them who are wisely using the lockdown period to shed a few pounds.

Besides resorting to free online classes, many have also availed advice from fitness experts who offer online training. They have made it clear that exercises could be done without gym equipment and if required, articles like water bottles, mop and sticks can be used at home.

“Since the lockdown, we have been providing online training. It is difficult for the students to adapt to the conditions at home while doing the workout.

The atmosphere inside a gym is different and the outcome is also much more visible when compared to the workout done at home. But it is imperative that those who have been exercising for either weight loss or health issues should continue doing it at home.

Those who were on a bodybuilding journey might find it difficult without the right equipment,” said P Surendar, a fitness trainer.

Also, beginners are utilising their time by walking on the terrace, counting their steps with apps and also by doing basic exercise by watching YouTube channels. “People can also get help from their friends who go to the gym regularly. Those who were leading a sedentary lifestyle can ease into workouts using articles available at home,” said A Praveen, another fitness trainer.

On the other hand, there are quite a few couch potatoes who are glued to the TV or video games while snacking all day long. Fitness experts cautioned that such breed of people is bound to gain weight unaware of the health complications that would surface in the future.

“Earlier, I used to visit the gym every day. But from the day the lockdown began, I started working from home. Now, I realise that neither do I have time to spend with my family nor work out. The little home time I had has now been extended to work time. I have gained a lot of weight by eating a lot while working. There is no time for physical activities. My day passes by as I sit in front of the computer. I have to hit the gym after the lockdown,” said Gopi Krishnan, a video editor.

Dieticians said that this is the time to take care of one’s health because when people are confined to their homes they tend to eat more. Do not store caloryhigh snacks and sweets, which will lead to weight gain, they cautioned.

“When it comes to a diet plan, try to wake up early and have fruits followed by breakfast. Try not to skip three meals a day, and add green vegetables into the diet chart. People should also cut down the consumption of oil to only 15ml per day. Sugar is another reason for weight gain. A teaspoon of sugar is worth 20 calories, but people add two or more teaspoons in their tea or coffee. Instead of having five to six cups of tea per day, one can have plain warm water by adding some basil, coriander or curry leaves,” said Dr Dharini Krishnan, dietician.

Weight gain can be caused by stress, too. Doctors recommend limiting news viewing to two times a day to check the stress levels.

“India has gone through many tough times. This is nothing compared to that. Being stressed can result in weight gain or lose depending on the metabolism of a person. If a person is stressed and eats a lot, then he or she is bound to experience weight gain. However, not eating properly could lead to malnutrition,” said Dr Dharini.

Both children and adults should start making physical activities a habit at home. A mere 30-45 minutes of indoor exercises like stretching and static jogging along with walking on the terrace or balcony is bound to help keep one fit, said fitness experts.