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Could Fitness Wearables Help Detect Early Signs of COVID-19? – bostonmagazine.com
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Local company WHOOP is helping investigate how changes in respiratory rate may be an early indicator of the coronavirus.
Photo provided by WHOOP
Weve been counting our steps and monitoring our heart rates using fitness wearables for quite some time. Some homegrown wearables like Nix and Embr Wave even monitor your hydration levels and body temperature. Now, with the ever increasing public health concern of COVID-19, Boston-based fitness wearables company WHOOP may have found a way to use its data to help detect the earliest sign of the virus: an increase in respiratory heart rate.
Emily Capodilupo, WHOOP Vice President of Data Science and Research, says the company came across the connection after a WHOOP member noticed his respiratory rate, or how many breaths you take in a minute, skyrocket from 14.5 to 18 in just one day. He later reported his findings to the company after being diagnosed with the disease. The changed respiratory rate was the first indicator that he wasnt fully healthy.
It takes a lot to disturb your respiratory rate, Capodilupo tells me over the phone. Its also important to note that respiratory rate is different from resting heart rate, which is different from heart rate variability. Respiratory rate is the number of breaths (inhales and exhales) you take in a minute and ranges from 12-20 breaths in a healthy person. Resting heart rate is the number of times your heart beats per minute and ranges between 60-90 in a healthy person, and heart rate variability is the time in between each heart beat. The latter two are more susceptible to fluctuations, while respiratory rate remains steadier. Generally speaking, you want a low respiratory rate, a low resting heart rate, and a high heart rate variability, she says.
For the WHOOP member who originally reported the changes in data, his respiratory rate usually only ever deviated between 14.5-15. A jump to 18 breaths per minute is a 17 percent increase from baseline and shows something much more significant is going on, Capodilupo explains. COVID-19 is primarily a lower respiratory tract infection, so it was worth seeing if there was a coincidence between the two. This differs from sicknesses like the flu or common cold, because those are upper respiratory infections, and are less likely to affect respiratory rate.
Turns out there was more going on. As more and more WHOOP users started reporting the same type of observations, the company decided it was time to do a little more digging. Together with the Cleveland Clinic and CQ University in Australia, WHOOP plans to conduct a study with 24/7 physiological data collected via the WHOOP strap from people with self-identified and confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Obviously our preference would be to study as many confirmed cases as we can, but that will depend on the availability of testing, Capodilupo says. Testing can be hard to come by without meeting strict criteria. The sample size of presumed cases is clearly much larger, but the accuracy of whether or not theyre actually experiencing COVID-19 is a little less clear.
Either way, all WHOOP users will have the ability to opt in to the study if they start experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, or are diagnosed with the virus. Typical symptoms include shortness of breath, fever, and a dry cough. When WHOOP members log in to their WHOOP Journalan online interface connected to their smartphone allowing them to track and compare daily behaviors with physiological dataCOVID-19 will be an option to monitor. They can also opt in to studies and surveys through the same interface, and opt out at any time.
If you dont have a WHOOP, youre probably wondering if your FitBit or Apple Watch can do the same thing, and the answer is a little unclear. WHOOP claims to be the only wearable device to validate the accuracy of its respiratory rate in a third party study. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, determined that WHOOP could accurately measure sleep and cardiorespiratory variables, finding that the chance for error was very low in both. Some Garmin watches and FitBit models do measure respiratory rate, but most studies on the validity and reliability of fitness wearables have been inconclusive at best.
The coronavirus pandemic is a rapidly evolving situation, with new findings developing daily. We may not know a lot about it, but Bostonians everywhere are working hard to find answers and to keep this city safe. If you own a WHOOP, youre encouraged to take part in the survey. If you have a different fitness wearable that measures respiratory heart rate, its unclear whether or not the information is reliable enough to predict a diagnosis. Regardless of your fitness wearables, continue carrying out social distancing measures, start wearing a mask when you leave your house, and wash your hands.
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Could Fitness Wearables Help Detect Early Signs of COVID-19? - bostonmagazine.com
News Gyms and fitness centers still charging members while closed Blayke Roznowski 6:57 AM, Apr – NewsChannel5.com
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) Gyms and fitness studios were forced to shut their doors in mid March because of COVID-19, but some of them havent stopped asking their members to pay. Millions of people across the U.S. are out of work and dont want to be charged for a service theyre not even allowed to use.
Major chains, like Planet Fitness, immediately froze all of their corporate and franchise stores. They say they'll adjust billing when they reopen.
Golds Gym is freezing billing at its corporate spots, but that doesnt mean that happened at all of its franchise locations.
The YMCA of Middle Tennessee automatically put memberships on hold for the month of April. They are giving members the option to turn their monthly dues into charitable donations. It is possible YMCAs outside of Middle Tennessee did not automatically put memberships on hold.
If a business is still billing customers who want to cancel, the National Consumer League says to reach out to the business and document all attempts and responses from both parties.
"I think a health club that wants to maintain its customers after this health emergency is done should be doing all it can to try and make sure its part of the solution to consumers problems here not part of the problem," National Consumers League spokesperson John Breyault said.
If the fitness center isnt cooperating, contact the the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs for assistance.
See all our Coronavirus coverage here
What is COVID-19 (a.k.a. the new coronavirus?)
According to the World Health Organization, coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. Examples include the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. COVID-19 stands for "Coronavirus disease 2019," which is when this strain of the coronavirus was discovered.
What are the symptoms?
The CDC says patients confirmed to have the 2019-nCoV reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with:
Prevention
The CDC is recommending "common sense" measures such as:
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News Gyms and fitness centers still charging members while closed Blayke Roznowski 6:57 AM, Apr - NewsChannel5.com
Heres the workout from Patriots receiver Julian Edelmans virtual fitness class – The Boston Globe
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This is a dream of mine, he said.
Heres a look at Edelmans fast-paced class:
1. 20 jumping jacks
2. 20 push-ups: His tips included making sure your hands are at your shoulders and keeping your butt up.
3. 20 jumping jacks
Then it was on to core work for what Edelman called abs of steel . . .
4. 20 toe touches: His tips included keeping your feet straight and making sure you get shoulder blades off the ground when reaching up.
5. 20 suitcases
6. 20 traditional sit-ups
At one point, Edelman shouted, What number am I on, Brady? What number am I on? He immediately clarified he was not referring to his former teammate, Tom Brady. My producers named Brady, said Edelman, gesturing to his earpiece.
On to legs and glutes . . .
Edelman laid out three rules he learned from retired fitness instructor Richard Simmons: 1. We have fun; 2. Were cutting calories, baby; and 3. Work them buns.
7. 20 squats: As you bend your legs, Edelman recommended keeping your chest up, your knees wide through the hips, and your butt back.
8. 20 lunges: Edelman equated this exercise to squishing a bug, and said to keep your knee above your ankle as well as maintain a bend in your back leg. His other tips were to have your chest up, core tight, and abs in.
Hydration is crucial, Edelman said during a water break. Old quarterback I used to have used to talk about it a lot. Brady, what was his name? Oh yeah, never mind.
Throughout the class, Edelman gave shoutouts to viewers such as Rebecca from Boston and Liz in Texas who had tuned into his session.
9. 20 jumping jacks
10. 20 squats
11. One-minute plank
12. 20 jumping jacks
13. Alternating push-ups, using a prop: Edelman used a football, of course, but he said a pillow, towel, or another small furniture item would suffice.
14. Stretches
With its gyms closed across the country, Planet Fitness is offering free virtual workouts daily amid the coronavirus shutdown. According to Edelman, former Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola is set to be the next celebrity host.
Tough times dont last, tough people do, Edelman said.
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Heres the workout from Patriots receiver Julian Edelmans virtual fitness class - The Boston Globe
Indoor fitness to feature on local cable TV; ICAM program schedule April 5 – April 11, 2020 – The Local Ne.ws
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Tashi Mark Warner and Tashi Deborah Mahoney of Ipswich will be on ICAM Channels Comcast 8 and Verizon 32 repeated daily starting Wednesday, April 8.
Start your day off and exercise with Warner for 40 minutes each morning at 8 a.m.
Mahoney will show you some self-defense moves each day at 5:30 p.m..
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And to add to this daily routine, follow along with yoga Instructor Mary Van Abs at 11 a.m.These shows are for all levels of abilities and can be modified to fit your needs.
The rest of this weeks schedule is below.
ICAM Public ChannelComcast Ch. 9 and Verizon Ch. 33Sunday, April 5, 2020
7:00 AM Good News: Jones Family Part I7:30 AM Lets Visit: The JFK Library & Tiny Houses8:30 AM Two Grannies on the Road: Carver pt 2 of 29:00 AM Smart Boating: Engine Rebuilding10:00 AM Ipswich First Congregational Church Service11:00 AM ECKANKAR: The Breath of God11:30 AM John wants Answers: Municipal Government12:00 PM COA Today: Beagles and Rum Running1:00 PM Grumpy Old Men Cooking: Curry Chicken & Bacon Pecan Squares1:30 PM Two Grannies on the Road: Carver pt 2 of 23:00 PM Downtown Tuesdays 2017: The Mood Swings Orchestra6:30 PM Smart Boating: Engine Rebuilding8:00 PM Time to Wake Up 268 Blaring Economic Alarms8:20 PM ICARE presents To Divest or Not to Divest? A forum on fossil fuels10:30 PM Energy Week: Renewable fuels competitive with fossil fuels. The climate is changing so much that historical data is no longer reliable.
Monday, April 6, 2020
8:00 AM Captain Ricks Adventures: An Interview with Tom Jeep Pappas, 98 yr old retired Commercial Clammer8:30 AM Timing is Everything: Coping with Grief Surrounding Alzheimers and Dementia11:30 AM Captain Ricks Adventures: An Interview with Tom Jeep Pappas, 98 yr old retired Commercial Clammer12:00 PM Good News: The Mantle Part I12:30 PM Timing is Everything: Coping with Grief Surrounding Alzheimers and Dementia1:30 PM Downtown Tuesdays presents The Orville Giddings Band6:00 PM Taste of Theater- Im the man by Lorie Hardy Warford6:30 PM Two Grannies on the Road: Marshfield and Scituate7:00 PM Lets Visit: The JFK Library & Tiny Houses7:30 PM Toy Talk: Nostalgic Look at Old Commercials8:00 PM COA Today: Beagles and Rum Running8:35 PM MA for the Blind PSA9:00 PM ICARE presents How Green Energy will change our future9:45 PM ICARE presents Dark Money in Senate EPW Nominations Hearings10:00 PM Democracy Now! Monday
Tuesday, April 7, 2020
7:00 AM Off The Shelf: Wrongful Convictions & the DNA Revolution edited by Daniel S. Medwed7:30 AM New Englanders: Halibut Fishing History8:00 AM Democracy Now! Monday9:00 AM Taking Care of You with Mrs. Magoo Ep.810:30 AM Ipswich First Congregational Church Service12:00 PM Democracy Now! Monday1:00 PM Off The Shelf: Wrongful Convictions & the DNA Revolution edited by Daniel S. Medwed2:30 PM Energy Week: Renewable fuels competitive with fossil fuels. The climate is changing so much that historical data is no longer reliable.6:00 PM Methodist Church Service7:30 PM New Englanders: Halibut Fishing History8:00 PM ICARE presents Scientists Warning to Humanity & Business as Un-usual8:30 PM Time to Wake Up 268 Blaring Economic Alarms10:00 PM Democracy Now! Tuesday11:00 PM Gay USA
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
7:00 AM Gay USA8:00 AM Democracy Now! Tuesday9:00 AM Methodist Church Service10:30 AM Ipswich First Congregational Church Service12:00 PM Democracy Now! Tuesday1:00 PM Sound Off: Senator Karen Spika4:00 PM The Ipswich Museum presents the Myths and Legends of Ipswich5:30 PM Gay USA7:00 PM Grumpy Old Men Cooking: Curry Chicken & Bacon Pecan Squares7:30 PM Timing is Everything: The Benefits of Massage Therapy8:00 PM Time to Wake Up 268 Blaring Economic Alarms8:30 PM Energy Week: Renewable fuels competitive with fossil fuels. The climate is changing so much that historical data is no longer reliable.9:30 PM Derby Street Variety Show: Champitto10:00 PM Democracy Now! Wednesday11:00 PM Sound Off: Senator Karen Spika
Thursday, April 9, 2020
7:00 AM ECKANKAR: The Breath of God7:30 AM Taste of Theater- Real Talk By Jackie Chambers8:00 AM Democracy Now! Wednesday9:30 AM Smart Boating: Engine Rebuilding12:00 PM Democracy Now! Wednesday1:00 PM Taking Care of You with Mrs. Magoo Ep.83:30 PM Toy Talk: Nostalgic Look at Old Commercials4:30 PM First Church of Wenham Service6:00 PM One Step Beyond 66: If You See Sally6:30 PM S01 E15 Tales of Tomorrow: Dune Roller7:00 PM ECKANKAR: The Breath of God7:30 PM ICARE presents How Green Energy will change our future8:30 PM ICARE presents Scientists Warning to Humanity & Business as Un-usual9:00 PM John wants Answers: Municipal Government9:30 PM Off The Shelf: Wrongful Convictions & the DNA Revolution edited by Daniel S. Medwed10:00 PM Democracy Now! Thursday11:00 PM OK House Presents Variety Show: Episode 1
Friday, April 10, 2020
7:00 AM Sound Off: Senator Karen Spika8:00 AM Democracy Now! Thursday9:00 AM The Ipswich Museum presents the Myths and Legends of Ipswich12:00 PM Democracy Now! Thursday2:00 PM COA Today: Beagles and Rum Running3:00 PM John wants Answers: Municipal Government4:00 PM Grumpy Old Men Cooking: Curry Chicken & Bacon Pecan Squares5:30 PM Lets Visit: The JFK Library & Tiny Houses6:00 PM Captain Ricks Adventures: An Interview with Tom Jeep Pappas, 98 yr old retired Commercial Clammer6:30 PM The Ipswich Museum presents the Myths and Legends of Ipswich7:30 PM ICARE presents A Road to a Green New Deal: Washington, DC Pt 19:00 PM Democracy Now! Friday10:00 PM ICAM Aberrant Movie: Hollywood & Vine (1945)11:00 PM OK House Presents: Evan Kelley Album Release, Acoustic Music Episode 2
Saturday, April 11, 2020
8:00 AM Democracy Now! Friday9:00 AM First Church of Wenham Service10:00 AM Good News: The Mantle Part I10:29 AM Kayak The Ipswich River PSA11:30 AM Toy Talk: Nostalgic Look at Old Commercials12:00 PM Democracy Now! Friday1:00 PM One Step Beyond 66: If You See Sally1:30 PM S01 E15 Tales of Tomorrow: Dune Roller5:00 PM Taking Care of You with Mrs. Magoo Ep.86:00 PM New Englanders: Halibut Fishing History6:30 PM Derby Street Variety Show: Champitto7:30 PM ICARE presents A Road to a Green New Deal: Washington, DC Pt 29:00 PM OK House Presents Variety Show: Episode 110:28 PM Kayak The Ipswich River PSA10:30 PM Derby Street Variety Show: Champitto11:00 PM One Step Beyond 66: If You See Sally11:30 PM S01 E15 Tales of Tomorrow: Dune Roller11:59 PM ICAM Aberrant Movie: Hollywood & Vine (1945)
The ICAM Education ChannelComcast Ch. 98 and Verizon Ch. 31Sunday, April 5, 2020
10:30 AM Michaels Toys: Hyperboloids12:00 PM Sidewalks Entertainment with American Ninja Warrior Junior Victoria Arlen1:00 PM Ipswich School Committee Meeting 4/2/206:00 PM STEM in 30: Randy Bresnik Downlink7:00 PM Whittier School Committee Meeting 3/11/209:00 PM Ipswich School Committee Meeting 4/2/20
Monday, April 6, 2020
8:00 AM Science 360: FERMILAB, the Tribal Colleges and Universities Program9:00 AM Sidewalks Entertainment with American Ninja Warrior Junior Victoria Arlen12:00 PM Money Talk with Jack Bevilacqua: Elder Financial Abuse12:30 PM Here We Are with guest Becca Blust1:00 PM Yoga with Mary Van Abs5:30 PM Current Topics in Science Series: Anthony DAmato7:00 PM Stop My Crisis: Toxic Relationships and Raising Your Self-Esteem7:30 PM Beyond My Crisis: Betrayal in Relationships8:00 PM Lucys Big Beautiful World of Painting: Adirondack Loveseat8:30 PM Sidewalks Entertainment with American Ninja Warrior Junior Victoria Arlen9:00 PM Here We Are with guest Becca Blust
Tuesday, April 7, 2020
8:00 AM Stop My Crisis: Toxic Relationships and Raising Your Self-Esteem8:30 AM Beyond My Crisis: Betrayal in Relationships9:00 AM Current Topics in Science Series: Anthony DAmato12:00 PM Whittier School Committee Meeting 3/11/201:00 PM Yoga with Mary Van Abs5:30 PM Michaels Toys: Eulers Disk6:30 PM The Kamla Show: Silicon Valley Pioneers Part 37:00 PM Ipswich HS Large Ensemble Winter Concert 20198:10 PM Ipswich Schools All-Town Choralfest Feb 27, 2020
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
9:00 AM Money Matters:Marina Kats10:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner12:00 PM The Kamla Show: Silicon Valley Pioneers12:30 PM Money Matters:Marina Kats1:00 PM Yoga with Mary Van Abs2:00 PM Money Talk: Student Loan Debt4:00 PM Self Defense Tashi Deborah Mahoney6:00 PM The Kamla Show: Silicon Valley Pioneers Part 37:00 PM Whittier School Committee Meeting 3/11/207:30 PM Current Topics in Science Series: Anthony DAmato
Thursday, April 9, 2020
8:00 AM STEM in 30 Science of Safety10:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner12:00 PM Lucys Big Beautiful World of Painting: Vintage Sheet Music1:30 PM Ipswich School Committee Meeting 4/2/205:00 PM Science 360: WIFIRE, solar superstorms, Alaska Fire and Ice and more!6:00 PM Michaels Toys: The Convex Deltahedron6:30 PM Money Matters: Lyman7:00 PM Ipswich School Committee Meeting 4/2/20
Friday, April 10, 2020
8:00 AM Here We Are with Guests Lucy Goldman and Yousef Hassan9:00 AM Lucys Big Beautiful World of Painting: Vintage Sheet Music9:30 AM STEM in 30: Airplane Family Tree10:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner12:00 PM Yoga with Mary Van Abs1:00 PM Ipswich School Committee Meeting 4/2/206:00 PM Science 360: Generation Nano Awards, a computer that executes 115 billion instructions per second7:30 PM Michaels World of Art: Ambigrams8:00 PM Ipswich Schools All-Town Choralfest Feb 27, 20209:00 PM Ipswich HS Large Ensemble Winter Concert 2019
Saturday, April 11, 2020
7:00 AM Saturday Morning Cartoons: 1960s Flashback9:00 AM Whittier School Committee Meeting 3/11/2010:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner12:00 PM Stop My Crisis: Conquering Phobias and Lifestyle Change12:30 PM Beyond My Crisis: Betrayal in Relationships1:00 PM Yoga with Mary Van Abs4:00 PM Self Defense Tashi Deborah Mahoney7:00 PM Ipswich Schools All-Town Choralfest Feb 27, 20208:00 PM Ipswich HS Large Ensemble Winter Concert 2019
ICAM Government ChannelComcast Ch. 8 and Verizon Ch. 32Replay times for meetings may change as meeting lengths are determined.
Sunday, April 5, 20207:00 AM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/209:00 AM Ipswich Select Board Meeting 3/27/2012:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/201:00 PM Ipswich Select Board Meeting 3/27/207:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/20Monday, April 6, 20207:00 AM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/2012:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/2012:30 PM Ipswich Select Board Meeting 3/27/206:30 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/207:00 PM Ipswich Select Board Meeting 4/6/20
Tuesday, April 7, 2020
7:00 AM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/208:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner10:30 AM Governor Baker Covid-19 Update 3/30/2012:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/2012:30 PM Ipswich Select Board Meeting 4/6/206:00 PM Governor Baker Covid-19 Update 3/30/207:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/207:20 PM Governor Baker Covid-19 Update 3/30/20
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
7:00 AM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/207:20 AM Governor Baker Covid-19 Update 3/30/208:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner11:00 AM Yoga with Mary Van Abs12:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/2012:20 PM Governor Baker Covid-19 Update 3/30/205:30 PM Self Defense Tashi Deborah Mahoney6:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/206:20 PM Governor Baker Covid-19 Update 3/30/207:00 PM Ipswich Conservation Commission Meeting 4/1/20
Thursday, April 9, 2020
7:00 AM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/208:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner11:00 AM Yoga with Mary Van Abs12:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/2012:30 PM Ipswich Conservation Commission Meeting 4/1/205:30 PM Self Defense Tashi Deborah Mahoney7:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/20
Friday, April 10, 2020
7:00 AM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/208:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner11:00 AM Yoga with Mary Van Abs12:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/205:30 PM Self Defense Tashi Deborah Mahoney7:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/20
Saturday, April 11, 2020
7:00 AM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/208:00 AM Tai Chi Tashi Mark Warner11:00 AM Yoga with Mary Van Abs12:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/205:30 PM Self Defense Tashi Deborah Mahoney7:00 PM Ipswich Covid-19 Update 4/1/20
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Indoor fitness to feature on local cable TV; ICAM program schedule April 5 - April 11, 2020 - The Local Ne.ws
Most purchased cleaning, tech, fitness and kitchen products – NBC News
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March has been a month to remember for some, it might have felt more like a year than a month. NBC News readers proved themselves exceptionally serious about staying clean and sanitizing their tech a somewhat elevated concern for many as the coronavirus illness COVID-19 continues to spread across the country. Given the increasing number of Americans working from home where it can be hard-but-doable to stay focused many readers seemed keen on boosting their Internet connections with new wireless routers, mesh Wi-Fi systems and some of the newer Wi-Fi 6 routers. Other than that, some of our most-read articles last month included our shopping guides to computer monitors, smart thermostats, sound bars and bookshelf speakers for those preferring audio solitude, we published an article on what active noise canceling headphones are and how they work. And lastly, some of our kitchen-centric coverage drew lots of attention, both the more hefty cast iron cookware shopping guide and our guide to making great cookies at home.
As you check out the shopping guides and recommendations above, we also wanted to be sure to share which of the specific sanitizing, tech, fitness and kitchen products were most popular among readers last month. Below are the top 15 most popular products across these categories. Catching up? Check out the most popular products we covered in February.
In March, readers found increasing interest in both keeping their devices clean and sanitized.
From our original UV light sanitizers coverage: The smaller and more portable iteration of the HoMedics UV light sanitizer below "will fit your phone and little else which might be worth the trouble considering the amount of time we use our phones."
In the same article, we highlighted another highly-rated Homedics product: "HoMedics has a portable sanitizer you can use to keep cleaning the surface of your phone, smartwatch, keys, wallet, glasses and so on."
And here is yet another popular option from the same coverage: "LARQ's bottlecap is equipped with UV-C LED lights that are designed to purify up to 99.99 percent of bacteria and viruses in your water. The bottle is set to self-clean every two hours." Last month, retailer Uncommon Goods released its own edition of a UV-C LED light self-cleaning bottle that looks a lot like the LARQ.
Veering somewhat from the more tech-centric items above, here's a ready alternative to paper towels or even sponges. "Microfiber cleaning cloths cut cleaning time in half because theyre able to grab the smallest microscopic to be exact particles of dirt, dust and dander," we previously reported on BETTER.
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Reader also increasingly read up on the latest wireless Internet-boosting options, as well as the best pair of noise canceling headphones.
As Whitson Gordon notes in his guide to Wi-Fi routers: "Youd be surprised what less than $100 will get you in this day and age. TP-Link offers some of the best bang for your buck with their Archer A7 router, a budget-focused router with remarkably fast Wireless AC performance, offering theoretical top speeds of 1300Mbps for an individual device or 1750Mbps combined speed across multiple devices.
Another popular router last month is featured both in the general guide to Wi-Fi routers mentioned above but also in Gordon's guide to Wi-Fi 6 wireless routers: "This is the cream of the crop one of the fastest, congestion-busting-est routers you can buy right now, thanks to its combination of Wi-Fi 6 and those tri-band antennas."
And finally, from Gordon's mesh Wi-Fi guide: "Eero was one of the pioneers in the consumer mesh Wi-Fi space ... Its not the fastest mesh system around, but it comes at a great price compared to the competition, and its extremely easy to set up. (If you can wire each unit together with Ethernet in your walls, all the better.)"
In his guide to shopping for active noise canceling headphones, Gordon explains that the WH-1000XM3 headphones "cancel out more noise than most of the competition. It can also let in outside noise through its microphones, but unlike the Bose 700, this setting doesnt adjust the level of noise cancelling so some folks may experience discomfort even with this setting turned down."
If the above options are too expensive, Gordon recommends Mpows H10 wireless noise-cancelling headphones as "a solid alternative. Theyre not as powerful as higher-end choices in my tests, they did a good job blocking out low-pitched drones but were not as effective at blocking out people talking next to me. Having said that, for long airplane trips, theyll do nicely without breaking the bank."
Gordon, who's been a remote worker for years and learned a thing or two about keeping all of his tech devices safely powered, recommends the Tripp Lite 8-outlet surge protector, arguing it's "a bit bigger than most standard power strips, but it has enough space to fit a couple larger power bricks without covering up the other outlets which can be a big plus if youve got multiple laptop blocks connected to it. It also contains an automatic shutoff mechanism that stops delivering power once its surge protection has worn out, so you know when its time to buy a new one."
Often a reader-favorite since we first put it out, our guide to exercise bikes and indoor cycling solutions found renewed interest as more and more readers might have found their gyms shutting down.
From our guide to at-home cycling solutions: "An adjustable seat and ergonomic handlebars with integrated heart monitors and wheels for portability make for a feature-heavy and relatively affordable at-home fitness solution from a leading brand like Schwinn."
On the higher-end of things: "The latest EX5S Bike model comes with a 21.5-inch HD touchscreen that flips 180 degrees for live streaming workouts. It's equipped with adjustable handlebars and has been outfitted with a new motor for more precise resistance levels. If incline and decline cycling are important to you, note the Echelon won't let you adjust either."
In last month's baking guide from cookie expert Jonathan Bender, he ran through everything you need to make great cookies at home three of those suggestions were very popular.
The Beater Blade is a KitchenAid attachment that scrapes the sides of the bowl while it mixes the dough. The pointed tip also hits the bottom of the bowl, helping to fold together all the ingredients.
"While fresh dry ingredients are important, there are also a few key places in a recipe where you should be willing to stretch your budget," Bender wrote. "Real vanilla extract, such as Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, will be designated with the word 'pure.'"
Finally, Bender wrote: "The right knife is the one that works for your hand. I find myself often reaching for the least expensive knife in my drawer, the Pure Komachi serrated sandwich knife. This steel knife is lightweight, helps slice bar cookies and can be used as a spreader in a pinch."
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Catch up on the latest from NBC News Shopping guides and recommendations.
Gideon Grudo is the NBC News commerce editor.
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Most purchased cleaning, tech, fitness and kitchen products - NBC News
Gyms may be closed, but virtual fitness instruction could be a viable alternative – WTOP
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For many, losing out on the ability to go see a personal trainer was a huge blow to their workout regiment. But there are ways to get a similar experience without leaving the house.
Once a week in the mornings, I usually go to downtown Bethesda, Maryland, to work out with my personal trainer, Nick Irons, at his gym. That hasnt happened in almost three weeks, because his gym Irons Fitness is closed, along with many other businesses in the area.
Luckily, the closing of the gym didnt mean the coached workouts had to end.
We just decided to find a way to use our skills and our knowledge to put people through the same workouts when theyre not with us, but theyre with us in a different way, Irons said.
Irons and his trainers have turned to platforms such as Zoom and FaceTime to connect with their clients for sessions. He said close to half of his clients are doing it.
According to Irons, part of the process is getting to know what clients have or dont have. Even if they have no equipment, he said a plan which uses body weight exercises can be developed.
In my basement, I have a modest setup: A pair of dumbbells which can be set to different weights, and a TRX suspension trainer. With those items, Irons came up with a workout regimen that I can do in my home.
The only other trick is finding a place to put the phone, computer or tablet, which gives him a good view of what I am doing. For me, a shelf and an iPad did the trick.
In my home, I have done two virtual sessions, both feeling as intense as the ones we did at the gym. Along the way I couldnt slip into sloppy form either, because whether it was to straighten my arm more for overhead presses or bring hands closer together for push ups a voice from the iPad would correct me.
He said for many of the people he works with, the workout sessions are important because it gives them the same level of accountability they have when they come into the gym.
Its amazing how quickly you can lose fitness, within a week and a half to two weeks you start to lose strength and endurance, so the work that youve already put in you start to lose, Irons said.
Irons said the virtual sessions also provide some normalcy during uncertain times.
Its also incredible that we have the ability to do something like this, where its not just were losing 100% of our revenue, Irons said.
Even with the virtual session, his business has taken a substantial hit he expects revenue to be down at least 50% this month. He said he plans to apply for assistance being offered to small businesses, by the state of Maryland, Montgomery County and the Federal Government.
Otherwise, Im not sure that we will be able to keep our doors open, Irons said.
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Gyms may be closed, but virtual fitness instruction could be a viable alternative - WTOP
Gym and fitness leaders in the region offer tips to stay active and healthy at home – Southernminn.com
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Although the governor ordered fitness clubs to close statewide March 17 through May 4, during the COVID-19 pandemic, personal trainers are still helping people stay active and healthy with online classes and at home workouts.
Faribault Parks and Recreation
The city of Faribault Parks and Recreation Director Paul Peanasky encourages walking on trails or sidewalks. Parks are also open, but playgrounds are all closed in the city. The Parks and Recreation Office also offers online classes in yoga, pilates, barre, group exercise, tai chi and meditation.
Zumba class participants see their reflection in mirror working out at the city of Faribault Fitness Center. (Photo courtesy of Paul Peanasky)
Holding classes online is a little awkward, as staff is putting together videos with no patrons, Peanasky said. He added, Usually they also spend a little time correcting patrons who need help. Cant do that by video.
However, response to the online classes has been very good, according to Peanasky. Patrons and community members call and email additional programs they would like to see.
Taught by Faribault Parks and Recreation Certified instructors, they can be seen on computers. and the local cable TV station (FCTV) plays them occasionally as well.
The Faribault Parks and Rec. Facebook page features this online yoga class which can be found on YouTube. (Photo courtesy of Paul Peanasky)
There is no cost for the classes.
We feel like everyone still needs some opportunities to get some exercise while being cooped up, Peanasky said. This is very difficult for everyone. We need to find ways to continue to feel good, and exercise is one of those ways.
Pulse Fitness Center
Pulse Fitness Center in St. Peter is among the gyms that offer online classes. Owner Rachel More, along with instructors at The Pulse and MoreFit (formerly CrossFit), teach the classes.
I started a new Facebook page for our current members to tune into for Facebook Live classes and workouts that we post as options for them to do when it works for their schedule, More said. There is a new class added daily Monday through Saturday. They can watch them live or anytime after the video is posted. We have done a variety of strength, interval and HIIT [workouts), mobility, yoga and pilates live classes, which they can view on any device.
Videographer Ella Wiebusch tapes online classes with Sally Morrow (right) and Rachel More, owner of The Pulse Fitness Center in St. Peter. (Photo courtesy of Rachel More)
Its going well.
So far the response has been very positive, More said. We are able to give members classes in formats that they like and are familiar with. Our videographer communicates with them if they are watching Live, which brings in the sense of community and that we are doing this together.
Comparing the online individual classes with in-person group classes, she noted, When you are working out with a group, there is a higher sense of accountability. Therefore, you show up, you work harder, you complain together, you celebrate together and say See you tomorrow when youre done. With online classes, the participant is alone in their house and can easily get side tracked or distracted. I believe during this time, though, because we have no choice, its different. My members are showing up (checking in) to class, saying Hi, still complaining together and still celebrating together. One perk, yoga in PJs.
For the general populace, unable to get to a gym right now, More recommends getting outside and getting up inside.
Everyone needs some fresh air, so getting outside when they can, More said. Aiming for your 10,000 steps. We all need to move our bodies with some kind of exercise, a variety is best. Try to get in both strength training and cardio. Many people may be sitting more since we are not leaving our homes as much, so getting up throughout the day to do some stretches and mobility exercises is also important. Maybe set a mini-goal for April, it might be as easy as 20 minutes of activity every day. Then write it down on your calendar so you can keep yourself accountable, that will give you motivation to stick with it.
We are all in this together. Everyone is being affected in one way or another. So have compassion for your neighbor, have patience with those you work with and those you are home with, and continue to support one another however you can.
Your Time Fitness
Kris Krause, owner and personal trainer at Your Time Fitness in Le Sueur and the Silver Sneakers instructor at the Le Sueur Community Center, teaches all the live online classes.
Kris Krause, owner of Your Time Fitness in Le Sueur teaches online workout classes. (Photo courtesy of Kris Krause)
Krause said there are many options to exercise and feel better.
Just getting outside to take a walk is so important, she said. There are many options out there online for all abilities and ages for exercise workouts. You should have no excuse now for not getting that workout done. From 10 to 15 minutes is better than nothing. Exercise is also important for boosting your immune system and decreasing stress levels.
She added, This is a tough time for all of us, but we have the make the best of it. Going online for me was very scary, but in order to keep my business going, I had to change with the times.
Krause offers online classes at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 8 a.m. Saturdays. She uses the video application Zoom for all classes and her personal training clients.
Members are glad to have the option, Krause said. Its the connection of being able to see and chat with everyone before we start class that we all appreciate and enjoy. There of course have been some learning curves along the way, but we just continue to learn and grow.
Your Time Fitness workout classes can be seen online twice a day Mondays through Thursdays and once on Saturdays. (Photo courtesy of Kris Krause)
For the most part online classes are run in the same fashion as in-person group classes. The only difference is the loss in connection.
We are only offering two classes a day, and they are the same format, Krause said. We can all see each other while doing the class, so we get the sense of connection, but classes in studio are more personal.
Just About You Fitness
Owner Jennifer Fisher, one of three personal trainers at Just About You Life Fitness & Personal Training Center in Owatonna, said people can exercise many ways during the pandemic for their mind and body.
Fisher, who teaches the majority of the classes and training, recommends five minutes of purposeful stretches, yoga, meditation, marching in place, using items around your home to improvise for the lack of exercise equipment, walk up and down your front steps or back deck steps. So many pretty easy-to-do exercises can be done during the minutes of each TV commercial.
Just About You Life Fitness & Personal Training Center in Owatonna offers a dynamic variety of fitness techniques for men and women of all ages. (Photo courtesy of Jennifer Fisher)
She continued, Get the family involved in the previous mentioned movements, make a game out of it or even challenge each other with a fun, non-food related, family reward when its safe again to socialize, travel, etc. There are thousands of ideas I throw at people every week, including my own family. Its imperative to keep moving with intention to stay healthy. The 12 systems that make up our body all connect. When is not working properly or efficiently, the other systems get the hit. That opens the door to our immunity system being compromised.
Asked about the response to online classes, Fisher said, its been positive with a seasoning of relief from many. We have been receiving notes, messages, cards, and personal calls thanking us for working so hard to get things set up and continue to offer the classes. I created spreadsheets of what devices people had and what exercise equipment they had available (no machines) based on their responses to email inquiries sent the very same day the governor put out the order.
According to Fisher, online live streamed classes definitely outrank videos, in terms of popularity. People are watching the classes using different devices from their phone, tablet, iPad, to computers, and laptops. With the warmer turn of weather, some are taking their devices outside, along with their equipment and following along with the workout.
Much of the time, people attend classes, because they cant motivate themselves to workout by themselves with a video or YouTube. Its just not the same is the comment we often hear.
But Fisher noted there are also opportunities associated with these challenging times.
As terrible as this crisis is, there are so many things we can learn from it and the effects it is having on everyone, she said. Despite this being an unprecedented and dangerous event globally, what a good time to also reflect upon how healthy or unhealthy we have been living our lives.
The business is lacking revenue right now, but Fisher wants access to help with healthy living to be as open as possible.
Financially, this is devastating to my business, Fisher said. However, I never opened a studio with the intent of it being anything less than about you. The people, like me when I was morbidly obese, had nowhere to go to ask questions, to work with people that could offer more than sympathy (at best), to show us how to move correctly while receiving educated and skilled advice while we were trying to becoming a better, more healthier version of ourselves.
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Gym and fitness leaders in the region offer tips to stay active and healthy at home - Southernminn.com
Richard Simmons of ‘Sweatin to the Oldies’ is posting fitness videos as a comfort during the coronavirus pandemic – Yahoo Entertainment
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Richard Simmons, of Sweatin to the Oldies fame, is restoring his YouTube channel during the coronavirus pandemic with nostalgic workouts for people under home quarantine.
"We have had an overwhelming request for Richard to return in some way as a comfort to all dealing with the pandemic," a spokesperson for the 71-year-old told Fox News. "We thought we would start by re-releasing some workouts and other inspirational content on his YT channel. Richard is very touched by the outreach. Representatives for Simmons did not immediately respond to Yahoo Entertainments request for comment.
A few weeks ago, Simmons began posting classic content including 10 Minute Sweat with Richard Simmons, Five Minute Retro Sweat Workout and a Motivational Monday segment in which he reads viewer mail and touts the health benefits of non-fat frozen yogurt. But dont fall into the trap of adding all those toppings, he says. Before then, his last YouTube videos were posted six years ago,
The pop culture icons Twitter and Facebook accounts have been sporadically maintained since 2016 (his last Instagram post was in 2014), amid rumors that he was missing or held captive. A New York Daily News report in 2016 described him as frail and trembling while allegedly under the thumb of his longtime housekeeper, according to concerned friends.
Richard is enjoying life at home after a 40-year career of traveling the world and inspiring people to take better care of themselves, manager Micheal Catalano told the New York Daily News. He is working on several projects and continues to encourage those that need his help.
Simmons also insisted that all was fine during a Today interview that aired days later. "No one is holding me in my house as a hostage,' he said. "You know, I do what I want to do as I've always done so people should sort of just believe what I have to say because like I'm Richard Simmons!"
He elaborated on the need for self-care after enduring knee injuries. "I just really don't want to do anything, you know, he told Today. "I just don't want to be traveling anymore. It certainly has taken its toll on me, so it was not like over a day, it was just over some time."
"For all the people that were worrying about me, I want to tell them that I love them with my whole heart and soul and that not to worry, Richard's fine, he said. You haven't seen the last of me. I'll come back, and I'll come back strong."
Following the 2017 podcast Missing Richard Simmons, Los Angeles police performed a home welfare check. However, a detective told People that rumors were all garbage adding, [Simmons] is perfectly fine and he is very happy.
And when the fitness guru was hospitalized in April 2017 for "severe indigestion, his rep told ABC News that Simmons only wanted respite from the spotlight.
Simmons (who was born Milton Teagle Simmons) grew up in New Orleans, Lo., where lard was a food group and dessert mandatory, he wrote on his website. In 1981, Simmons told the Washington Post that he went to Europe as a 268-pound teenager and modeled for Dannon yogurt and other brands.
In the 1970s, Simmons moved to Los Angeles and opened a Beverly Hills-based salad bar, favored by Diana Ross and Barbra Streisand, reported the Washington Post. An attached gym called Slimmons was operational until November 2016.
According to his website, Simmons created 65 fitness videos like Dance Your Pants Off, Party Off the Pounds and Sit Tight for disabled people. He also sold the weight loss tools Deal-A-Meal and FoodMover and published nine books, including the 1998 autobiography Still Hungry-After All These Years and Never Say Diet, the 1982 New York Times Best Seller.
Simmons also wanted children to value health and fitness in 2010, he assisted with passing the the Fitness Integrated with Teaching (FIT) Kids Act to promote physical education in schools.
This week, Simmons tweeted motivational messages such as, Get up and move! and Are your snacks healthy? On Friday, actress Jane Fonda, also famous for the 1982 namesake workout, reenacted the routine on TikTok to raise awareness for climate change.
For the latest coronavirus news and updates, follow along at https://news.yahoo.com/coronavirus. According to experts, people over 60 and those who are immunocompromised continue to be the most at risk. If you have questions, please reference the CDC and WHOs resource guides.
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Richard Simmons of 'Sweatin to the Oldies' is posting fitness videos as a comfort during the coronavirus pandemic - Yahoo Entertainment
Keeping the weight off during Covid-19 lockdown – Free Malaysia Today
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Use this period in quarantine to teach kids how to cook simple dishes with less fat and sugar, says French chef Cyril Lignac. (Rawpixel pic)
PARIS: Covid-19 has shaken the world like nothing else. But beyond the terrible toll of death, economic devastation and fear, the virus is likely to leave another lasting mark.
It is going to make everyone fatter.
I dont know if we are going to come out of this experience stronger, but we will have gotten fatter, warned nutritionist Beatrice de Reynal, who said that was only one thing to do eat less.
It is going to happen to us all, even if we try to exercise, said the similarly fatalistic Julian Mercier, a French sports, health and cooking coach.
With more than a quarter of humanity shut up at home or under lockdown, and with many worried they will get the virus next, the temptation to comfort eat is hard to resist.
I am the first to turn to chocolate rather than to an apple, Mercier admitted. And that is what risks being our undoing.
The arithmetic of the situation is hard to argue with.
By doing little or none of the physical activity people normally do, an adult is likely to burn off up to 400 fewer calories a day, said dietician Jennifer Aubert.
Which is why you have to reduce your portions and move as much as you can as long as it is not to the fridge and back.
Other experts point to people who have panic-bought a cupboard full of fresh food, finding themselves duty-bound to eat their way through it.
Slipping into over-eating
Being alone and coping with the stress of the situation, as well as worries about whether they will have a job to go back to, can tip people into over-eating, the British Nutrition Foundation warned.
With concerns about the availability of food, eating well and staying healthy alongside all the other stresses of the coronavirus outbreak is a challenge, it admitted.
Food can be a comfort and its easy to overeat when spending so much time at home, especially if you like to cook in order to pass the time.
But it is advising people to embrace the lockdown to learn to put together healthy meals which can be a source of enjoyment and help your well-being.
Canned or frozen ingredients can be just as nutritious as fresh, it added.
Not everyone cooks, however, as Pascale Hebel, of the French CREDOC research institute said, and some may not have the wherewithal to cook.
Which can lead to a heavy reliance on fatty and salty ready-meals and tinned food.
Others warned against using food as a way of soothing children forbidden from going outside to play with their friends.
To avoid problems it is easy to make spaghetti bolognese that everyone likes rather than to fight to make them eat spinach, Mercier said. But that would be a mistake.
Experts were unanimous that cooking for yourself and structuring your day with regular meals and physical activity, were vital if we are to come out of this in decent shape.
Stay calm and cook
It can even be possible to lose weight, said Aubert, because we actually have more time to do sport at home.
And with hashtags like #homemadefood proliferating on social media as users show off dishes and compare recipes, it could also be the chance to teach a whole new generation how to cook.
British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver certainly thinks so and has been doing his bit with a nightly show based on store cupboard and freezer faves called Keep Cooking And Carry On.
It includes dishes fast but healthy such as Cornershop Curry and Quick green pasta.
I understand that it is easy to fall into watching the television, or lying around reading and snacking. I am the first to do it, his French opposite Cyril Lignac told AFP.
But this period is a great chance to teach children and teenagers how to cook simple dishes. And when I am at home I tend to cook with less fat and sugar.
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Keeping the weight off during Covid-19 lockdown - Free Malaysia Today
For marathoners who run 200 kilometres a week, lockdown has brought them to a dead stop – The Indian Express
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Written by Nihal Koshie | New Delhi | Updated: April 4, 2020 9:10:03 am When in the peak period of their training cycles, marathon runners typically clock 180 to 200 kilometres a week (File Photo)
From running 180 to 200 kilometres a week to near zilch. A set of athletes has literally been stopped in their tracks by lockdowns imposed to contain the coronavirus pandemic. A full marathon covers almost 42.2 kilometres and for those putting their bodies on the line, standing still is not an option.
Marathoners workouts comprise developing endurance, hill training, tempo running every single session planned to begin four to five months before a race. But marathons around the world have been cancelled. For an athlete whose weekly schedule involves clocking kilometres at a stretch for five days a week, not being allowed outdoors can result in the wheels falling off faster than for most others.
Paris, Tokyo, Vienna, Rotterdam, Manchester, Barcelona, Boston and London are cities that have postponed marathons, shredding carefully-chalked-out training plans.
Eliud Kipchoge, often called the greatest marathon runner, shared his training-from-home diary with the BBC recently. He talks about the loneliness of not being able to run with his team because of social distancing. This is now the third day since we broke up from the camp due to coronavirus. Its really hard to train because I value teamwork. Its mutual interest because it helps me so much, Kipchoge says.
The Kenyan was training to run the London Marathon but is now confined to his home. He is based in Eldoret since his training camp at Kaptagat was shut because of the pandemic giving him the option of running solo. Kipchoge is one of the luckier ones.
Indias marathon runners, confined to their rooms at training centres or at home, are learning to innovate. Sudha Singh, a qualifier for last years World Championships, says she looks at the running track longingly from her hostel room window at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala during the ongoing lockdown.
The track is so close yet so far, she says. You feel like going out and running but of course I am being responsible and following all precautions, Sudha says.
Improvisation has kept her restlessness in check. She uses the staircase inside the hostel building to run up and down as a form of cardio exercise. Only when nobody is around do I use the steps. One needs to at least do some basic exercises. In my room, I do basic strength training using an exercise band, she says.
A marathoner has multiple issues to worry about as cutting down on mileage can have repercussions the endurance level begins to dip and weight gain is a concern. I have lost 30 per cent of my endurance in 10 days, Nitendra Singh Rawat says from Baijnath, a village located in the Garur Valley of Uttarakhand.
READ | What Kenyas Eliud Kipchoge has achieved Not an official record, but a triumph of human endurance
Rawat, a 2016 South Asian Games gold medallist, goes for short runs in this picturesque locale but he too needs to be careful. I do a quick run into the jungle where there is a path. There is nobody in these parts so there is no fear of being infected by coronavirus but there are wild animals. Running is so important and if one is not able to, it gets really tough and depressing. I understand the important of the lockdown, Rawat adds.
The experienced marathoner worries about putting on weight because he is not burning enough calories. High-carb drinks and water keep a marathoner going during training days and Rawat says when one stops running suddenly, there can be a build-up of fat.
I have put on over two kilograms. I am cutting down on my calorie intake, especially carbohydrates. I have just one scoop of rice instead of two, one roti and sabzi. At the moment, I cant follow the specialised diet which I would have if I was training properly. I dont lose weight as fast as I put on so it is a challenge. My muscles are losing strength, Rawat says.
The current predicament the town of Baijnath faces in terms of supplies balances it out. I am forced to cut down because the truck that delivers essentials to this area comes from 140 kilometres away. So we have to stock up and go easy, Rawat adds.
The 33-year-old knows the road ahead will be tough for endurance athletes with uncertainty over the duration of the lockdown, not just in India but in marathon venues around the world. Everything has gone for a toss. Mentally also, it is very difficult because the training schedule is disrupted. And how do you plan training because you dont know when the next marathon will be held, Rawat says.
National long-distance coach Surinder Singh gives pep talks to trainees over the phone to keep their spirits high. He is also monitoring their diet. For long-distance runners being in a room and not able to run makes a huge difference. They can burn off half a kilo increase in weight fast once they return to full training. If its more than that, it will take longer. I am trying to ensure that their diet is reduced. Say from 5000 calories a day to 3000 calories a day, Surinder says.
The advantage of being an elite athlete, according to Surinder, is that they can regain endurance levels faster than others.
Thonakal Gopi, a former Asian marathon title-holder, is at the Sports Authority of Indias centre at Kangeri, Bangalore. He isnt too stressed about this off period because he is recovering from a niggle in his knee. This is like a recovery period for me. So in a way, I have not lost much in terms of training because of the lockdown as I was not 100 per cent fit yet. But I should be fine in a few days, Gopi says.
If he was in his peak training schedule, he would have done at least 180 to 190 kilometres a week. Gopi is lucky because he does not put on weight. I am not somebody who eats a lot so it is easy for me to control my diet. My weight has more or less been constant over the years. We dont have access to the gymnasium. Everyone is training individually in their rooms. When we train for the marathons we do so in groups, but we dont know when that would be possible, Gopi says.
Around the world, the uncertainty over events makes planning tougher for athletes. Hugh Jones, a winner of the London, Stockholm and Oslo marathons in the 1980s, and a race director at events around the world, is sensitive to their predicament.
For most elite athletes, denied any possibility of competing for the next few months, the objective should be to set training at a lower level which does no more than maintain a good level of aerobic fitness. When races start to be staged again not just planned and scheduled then there will be an intervening time in which runners must bring their training to a peak, Jones said in an email.
At the moment, races are being postponed from scheduled May dates but, as the virus continues to spread, it is likely that June, July and August dates will also be postponed or cancelled. No one can tell for sure when the race programme will resume so athletes are faced with targets that move in an unpredictable way.
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For marathoners who run 200 kilometres a week, lockdown has brought them to a dead stop - The Indian Express