Fitness enthusiasts staying active throughout pandemic

As COVID-19 regulations have seen gyms opening and closing over the last 14 months, running outdoors has always been an option.

For those working from home, exercise has never been more important.

“I’m by myself, this is a chance for me to get out and still be social and keep my distance from everybody at the same time, said Daniel Spurgeon, interim president of the club.

Members of the club meet up to five times a week, exploring different trails around the city.

But for other avid exercise lovers, there have been some adjustments.

Back Alley Fitness has shifted group workouts outside. Co-owner Colin DeWolfe says it’s important for people to have this outlet.

“The biggest thing with our community is mental health, physical health,” DeWolfe said. “People have been feeling it, sitting at home through the winter months, being dark, just not feeling like yourself. Exercise is an important part of a lot of people’s lives. It’s one of those things that help you feel better about almost everything.”

He says clients love rocking their shades during sunny outdoor workouts.

Other perks of outdoor exercise are the ability to socialize. Members of the Mad Hatters’ Running Club always remember to pack their lawn chairs.

“We like to go for coffee afterwards and do those sort of things as well,” Genno said. “Plan our next activity and what we’re going to do. Although we run, we also have people that will bike and get together.”

The Mad Hatters’ Running Club is open to all running levels and won’t let a pandemic slow them down.

by Teagan Rasche

Fitness enthusiasts staying active throughout pandemic

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