IS EXERCISE ESSENTIAL?

We think so.

Exercising outside has been permitted throughout even the toughest lockdown restrictions we’ve forgone in the UK.

Remember back in March when we were only allowed out once a day to exercise, on our own or with our household? Back then the government allowed us out for only a few ESSENTIAL things: food, medication, work (if you were a frontline or essential worker) and EXERCISE.

Says a lot about how important exercise is doesn’t it?

It was wonderful to see and hear how many people did take up some form of exercise as a coping mechanism in this unprecedented and stressful situation. Running has become a new favorite hobby for so many, and we’ve been delighted that some of those people have joined us on our running tour.

When rules eased off in June, running, alongside other outdoor activities, has been permitted in unlimited numbers in Covid secure environments put in place by running clubs and businesses such as ours. This is when a lot of other activities and socialising were subject to “The rule of 6”.

Now, we’re being told to stay at home again from tomorrow, Thursday 5th November 2020. No mixing with any other households and the shut down of most businesses and venues. On the other hand meeting outdoors to exercise isn’t just permitted but it’s actually being encouraged by the Government, and you can do it with one other person.

England Athletics, with British Cycling and British Triathlon have written to our Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, to ask for permission for small outdoor groups to continue exercising together, recognising the positive impact of group motivation being the difference between exercising or not.

I certainly lost my running mojo during the high of lockdown when my running groups had to cancel and I had to get out there on sheer willpower alone. With less daylight and more rain it's going to be even harder for me this time round.

We’re waiting to hear if our group running tours can continue, or we’ll be restricted to one guide per runner. We are keen to ensure those using running and being outdoors during the pandemic as a coping mechanism to combat tough mental health conditions, or for those living alone, can still reap the benefits of exercise and some social interaction.

We will update you as soon as we know what we can do.

In the meantime, we encourage you to move your body in any way you can. We promise it’ll make you feel better, and there is a form of exercise for EVERYONE whether that’s walking, skipping, dancing, stretching, balancing or running. You won’t regret it!