Gyms are all closed right now, and the outdoor events we love are cancelled for everyone’s safety. We’re all feeling itchy to get outside, whether we spend that time jogging around the block, walking the dog, or just soaking up some sun in the garden. For many people during the world’s response to the coronavirus, this time outdoors may be the one special window when things just feel normal again.
You may only have 30 minutes to an hour each day to yourself. If you’re lucky enough to get that time, what’s the most nurturing thing you could do for yourself? Get out of those four walls and get that fresh air, because each second matters. And believe us: After eating up all those yummy endorphins, your brain will thank you.
So make those seconds count. Just remember to get your steps in safely, protect your home when you leave it, and always take good care of yourself. We’ll give you some “do’s” and “don’ts” to help you find your worry-free workout.
Secure your time outdoors with our do’s and don’ts
Do maintain social distancing. Stick to the CDC’s recommendation for social distancing, even while outside:
- Stay at least 6 feet from other people
- Do not gather in groups
- Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings
Do lock up behind you. If you have geo-fencing as part of your security system, you can draw a virtual fence around your house and set a rule to lock the door and arm your system once you get a certain distance away.
Don’t leave without checking heating tools and appliances. Do a quick walk-through of your home to ensure heating tools like clothes irons, curling irons, and space heaters are shut off and unplugged.
Do test your life safety devices. Make sure you have smoke and CO detectors installed, and check that they are working. We recommend professionally monitored smoke and CO devices. When you have Guardian’s protection specialists on the job, not only will you be notified in the event of a fire or another emergency, but our team will jump into action to help you get the assistance you need.
Do stay connected. Trust and believe — we know how go it feels to unplug, but while you’re outside and by yourself is not the time. Bring your smartphone or a smart watch. Send a text to someone you trust letting them know where you will be and when you should be back.
Do wash your hands. We touch our faces a lot when we sweat, so do a thorough 20-second handwashing before and after your time outside.
Don’t post your fitness routine. We know you’re proud of closing those fitness rings on your Apple Watch or hitting your daily step goal on your Fitbit. But don’t post info online that lets everyone know when your house will be empty.
Do learn about where you will be running. If you are driving outside of your immediate neighborhood, do a little research first so you know what to expect. State and local officials determine whether parks, beaches, and other recreational spots are open, so check in before you go.
Don’t block out your surroundings. Always be aware of who is nearby and what is going on around you while you run. Stay alert, and keep the volume low on your headphones.
Do know your limitations, and be gentle with yourself! This is not a time you want to be sitting in a hospital waiting room with a sprained ankle.
Don’t touch anything that gets frequent use, when you can avoid it. This includes public restrooms, water fountains, and mail boxes. Use a mask and gloves when appropriate. If you have to touch something like a handrail or a traffic signal, use hand sanitizer.
If you play ball, play by the rules!
A couple important considerations:
First, it’s always smart to get a thumbs-up from your doctor before beginning any new fitness routines. If you are not feeling well or have any questions about whether you are at a higher risk of getting sick, consult with a medical professional.
Second, the majority of U.S. states have issued “stay at home” or “shelter in place” orders to slow the spread of COVID-19. Many allow outdoor activity as long as people practice safe social distancing, do not gather in groups, and do not go out if they are feeling sick. Still, there may be limitations on what you would typically do outdoors, and where you can do it. Stay informed about the COVID-19 situation in your area and follow the advice of your local health and government officials.
Create your custom outdoor activity Scene
Are you a Guardian customer who makes outdoor time a regular part of your routine? Create a custom Scene! Guardian’s Scenes feature lets you adjust multiple Guardian security and smart home automation devices with one command. For example, you can create a Scene named “Daily Run” that locks your front door, arms your security system, and turns down the thermostat. You can learn more about Scenes here.
Not a Guardian customer but wish you could create a Scene of your own? Fill out a form on our website to set up a totally free consultation and we’ll explore what’s possible together.
