With lockdown in Kigali and eight other districts, the Covid-19 pandemic has drastically restricted daily activities, making physical exercise crucial for a healthy body and mind. As we navigate through the Covid-19 lockdown period, fitness enthusiasts share the importance of exercise.  

Research published by Healthline suggests that staying active could potentially decrease the risk of severe Covid-19 symptoms, and even death. Patients who were inactive, exercising 10 minutes or less per week during a six-month period prior to the pandemic were more likely to be hospitalised, or require intensive care, or die, than those who were constantly physically active for at least 150 minutes per week.  Other than advanced age and history of organ transplant, physical inactivity was the strongest risk factor for severe Covid-19 outcomes, the research conducted.

Laurien Izere, a professional trainer in Kigali, highlights some of the benefits of physical exercise while indoors.

"Exercise has a lot of positive impact on the immune system,” Izere says. Physical exercising can, among other things, improve lymphatic drainage that can remove toxins and boost the body’s ability to fight off infections.

"The practice of physical exercise modulates the immune system, continuous exercise is essential particularly in the lockdown period as many consume but do not engage in daily movements,” he says.

"Previous plagues have shown that lockdown can result in high levels of psychological and physiological distress. Physical exercise can be used to cope with mental-related issues, as it helps to release endorphins and chemicals that make a person feel relaxed and less stressed. Physical exercise, when done at least three times a week, reduces mental fatigue, boosts better sleep and fights poor mental health,” he says. 

Regular exercise also boosts heart function and can be extremely beneficial for the long term health of your heart. "It lowers blood pressure, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by almost 50 per cent.

"During the lockdown period, you can increase the efficiency of your exercise routines by reading about health management. Regular exercise is increased appreciation of your overall health and wellbeing,” Izere says.

Some people use physical exercise as a way to relax, or feel motivated. And, engaging in physical exercise boosts productivity almost instantly. According to Izere, productivity output increases by 60 per cent when you are active, as opposed to when you are inactive. Incorporating physical activity in your daily routine can do wonders, especially if you are working from home as this will boost your productivity level.

Izere points out that there are various workouts, including fat burning, to regulate blood circulation, and so on. People who are used to going to the gym might find working out from home a challenge, however, he says, it is possible to exercise at home with the use of different objects and tools. He adds that other exercises include yoga, squats, push-ups and more, and all are helpful. He also notes that it is important to regulate your daily diet by avoiding oily food, consuming fresh vegetables and fruits, and drinking at least two litres of water a day.