Social distancing is vital to the fight against the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Close contact between persons is the main culprit of infection. Ideally, there’s a physical distance of 6 feet (1.83 m) from one person to another during social interactions. That’s the reason why for the past year, we have all been advised to self-isolate.
Instead of going to salons, we bought hair-cutting scissors online so that we could trim our own hair. Instead of going to the bakeshop for our favorite cakes and pastries, we learned how to bake ourselves. In cases where we have no choice but to venture out of the house, we wear a protective mask for everyone’s safety.
However, the pandemic has been here far too long. And you probably miss bonding with your friends and loved ones. Thankfully, there are ways to interact with your close circle without putting anyone at risk of COVID-19. Here are some social-distancing physical activities you may want to try.
Cycling
Cycling is like shooting two birds with one stone. You get your much-needed cardio exercise. Also, you get to see some lovely scenery along the way. At least that’s true if you spend enough time researching the best and most accessible routes in your area.
More importantly, cycling is a physical activity you may share with your dear ones even amid a pandemic. You will be using your own bikes. You’re socially-distanced throughout most of the ride.
Kayak
This is safe so long as you and your friends use solo kayaks. No partnering, please. If there’s a lake or ocean nearby, head out to that destination. Enjoy the soothing effect of being in the presence of a body of water.
Make sure that everyone wears a life jacket, even if you’re all swimmers. And don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. You do not want to survive a pandemic only to succumb to skin cancer.
Badminton/Tennis
Opponents play these sports on two opposite sides of a relatively large court. There’s very little chance of getting dangerously close. Even if playing doubles, there’s still more than enough space between a duo.
Choose an outdoor court. If there’s none nearby, you might need to improvise. Keep in mind that accumulated aerosol in enclosed and air-conditioned spaces has been linked to COVID-19 transmission. You want to stay away from a sports gym with poor ventilation.
Hiking
You’re lucky if you live in an area with hiking trails that offer the best views. Make the most of them even if there’s a pandemic. Gather your friends and family and hike six feet apart. Pack light so you do not overexert yourself. Do not forget to bring trail mix to keep yourselves energized. Most importantly, stop routinely to admire the beauty that surrounds you. You need all the calm you can get during these troubled times.
Virtual Zumba
If you do not want to go out, virtual hangouts are still a thing. But it’s time you level up your Zoom meetings with friends and family. Why not schedule a Zumba session via Zoom? You can all chip in to book a professional Zumba instructor. Make the session even more fun with outlandish outfits. Give out a prize to the person with the most eye-catching fashion statement.
Golf
This might not appeal to younger people. But if someone you know, your dad or an uncle, for example, is an avid golfer, this is the best time to explore what it is about this sport that gets people hooked. You don’t even need to invest in any gear since you can borrow from them.
Golf courses are expansive, so there’s no reason for standing dangerously close to anyone. You’ll get to stay safe.
The activities in this list are just the tip of the iceberg. There are many other ways to bond with your friends and loved ones without going against authorities’ health safety rules;. It only takes a little creativity and a load of missing your dear ones. So go on and schedule something with them. After all, we should not allow this pandemic to dull our lives beyond belief. ;
COVID-19 vaccines are currently being administered worldwide. Soon, the global population will reach herd immunity. That would weaken the virus to a point where we can slowly go back to how things used to be. In the meantime, we still need to subscribe to precautionary measures recommended by experts. Yes, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
