Because so many people are inevitably left with more time on their hands, it has become a trend to begin working on summer bodies. On social media platforms, including Instagram and TikTok, millions of home exercise videos are blowing up and reaching out to many people. These videos focus on a variety of things, including workouts, how to eat healthily, and lifestyle tips.
Because this topic has become so big, even my school’s PE teachers are assigning PE-related projects to students. For instance, I recently had to create my own workout routine for a week, listing the different activities I planned to do along with how many minutes or how many reps I would include. These exercises could involve jumping jacks, cardio workouts (jogging and running), ab workouts, push-ups, jump rope, or any other type of physical activity.
Even though I thought of this assignment as tedious when I first saw it, I forced myself to get out of bed. And so my workout began. In the morning, I would write down a list of exercises I would do that day, and I made sure to include a diverse list of activities so I could get an all-around workout. I did push-ups, core workouts, jumping jacks, pilates, and occasionally jogged around my neighborhood.
After finishing my last workout on Friday, I realized two things. I was very out of shape, but I had enjoyed exercising. This activity had gotten me out of bed bright and early and induced me to spend my time doing something that would benefit my health. Even though this week’s PE project has come to an end, I have been finding myself eager to do more exercises, as I see countless workout videos constantly being posted on social media.
Gabriel Barcelona, a fellow student at North Hollywood High School said, “Being stuck at home for the next four months has made me realize that I [can] be doing something good with my time… I know that if I exercise, not only will it make me happier by making me more content with my body, but it will also improve my overall health.”
This exercising fad has proven to be one of the beneficial trends that can help others spend their time improving their mental health. Not only do people gain confidence by seeing themselves improving every day, but they can also let go of any stress or burdens they have been carrying. By regularly exercising, people release all kinds of endorphins like dopamine and serotonin, allowing them to balance their stress hormones.
Additionally, exercising can benefit our physical health and can contribute to reducing risks of diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. Barcelona also mentioned how his family has a history of these diseases. So, he feels inclined to do whatever possible to reduce the risk of these in the future.
Staying at home during quarantine doesn’t have to be dull and prolonged; we can make it productive and lively by doing things that keep us occupied and busy. Even though I was bugged by my PE teacher’s decision to make us do a workout routine for a week, I realize what a thoughtful decision this was. By being forced to get out of bed and exercise, I was able to spend my time more wisely and feel more motivated to get things done throughout the week.
So, if you have nothing to do during quarantine, you might as well start working on that summer body now!
Sabrina Mo, Grade 9
North Hollywood HGM High School
