COVID-19, a new virus has become a pandemic and infected millions around the world. In the UK changes including the shutdown of schools and policies of self isolation have been introduced to try and limit the rapid spread of the virus. For most school pupils, the closure of schools and the necessity to stay indoors will lead to intense boredom and a deterioration in physical wellbeing. However a number of movements have surfaced in an effort to lessen this boredom for all pupils.

 

Kick up challenges with certain objects have appeared on social media and have led to a sharp incline in pupils attempting them.  Whilst most students participate on a nomination basis, it is encouraged for pupils to try these challenges of their own accord. These activities relieve stress and whilst they don’t do a great deal for one's physical fitness, they definitely relieve boredom. Many pupils have reported a sense of community they feel when sharing and comparing scores with new friends they make online.

 

Whilst gyms and leisure centers have shut down, pupils have been doing home workouts. Some schools still teaching lessons online at this time have added this element to the PE section of the curriculum. This helps to alleviate boredom and heighten one's physical wellbeing. It is recommended for all to take part in these activities as it is suspected that COVID-19 will continue to cause infection in England for the foreseeable months and national restrictions on social distance and isolation will remain in place.  Physical exercise is essential to remain healthy. It is positive that there is a huge variety of exercise options available online from traditional gym workouts to yoga, meditation, football skills, ballet skills, ice-skating skills and any other sport you might have an interest in exploring or trying out. It is also positive that most websites are offering access to the exercise /skill programmes free of charge due to the impact of COVID-19.

 

In addition to helping the body, physical activity has positive mental effects.  It not only reduces boredom but it alleviates stress and helps pupils sleep better.  Physical exercise can help pupils cope with the stress and anxiety caused by COVID-19.  The internet and social media allows pupils to have access to physical exercise that enables them to stay mentally well and physically fit and healthy despite the virus and necessary social distance measures imposed by the government to fight it.  

 

I would encourage everyone to keep up their physical exercise or take the opportunity to try out a new sport or activity that is currently available free online. Pupils can continue to stay fit and healthy despite COVID-19 and physical activity can improve the lives of every pupil in national lockdown.


 

Max McFarlane