How to Get Fit in 2021, Even During a Pandemic

If you’re like most San Antonians, you’re planning to trade your tamales and margs for some salads and mineral water in January. In years past, this would have probably included a new gym membership (or actually going to the gym you have a membership to!). But this year, we’re not all comfortable going to the gym quite yet. No worries! I’m here with safe, socially distanced ways to get fit in 2021. (Disclaimer: talk to your doctor to see what workout program is best for you!)

1. Hit the trails!

We are so lucky to live in a city with so many free parks and trail systems! No matter what part of town you’re in, you are bound to have a trail to run, walk, or bike on near you. My personal favorite is the Leon Creek Greenway—I usually start at the Valero trailhead. Want to take your jogging stroller? Check out Whitney’s tips here.

2. Try Stroller Strides

Stroller Strides is a fitness program for parents and littles together! They have adapted to the pandemic, offering virtual playgroups and workouts. More information can be found here.

3. Peloton is not just for squizillionares

Yes, the Peloton bike and treadmill are pretty expensive and the $40/month additional membership fee is a lot (but if anyone is wondering, my birthday is in April and I’m a size treadmill). But did you know Peloton has an app available to anyone? The first 2 months are free and then the price goes to $12.99 a month. This includes mat workouts, yoga, running, and of course cycling workouts. You can learn more about the app here.

4. Beachbody on Demand

I have been a Beachbody fan since 2009, when I jumped on the P90x trend like everyone else in the early 2000s. What’s great about Beachbody is that they offer a range of workouts for all fitness levels, from beginners to more experienced athletes. I personally enjoy LIIFT4 and Insanity, old school as it may be! Beachbody on Demand is currently offering a free 14-day trial, and you can read all about it here.

5. Try a Tabata workout

Tabata is a workout protocol in which you push really hard for 20 seconds, rest for 10, and repeat 8 times. It is designed to be very challenging, but only 4 minutes of total work-perfect for busy parents! You can do anything for a Tabata workout-sprints, pushups, burpees, you name it. A Tabata workout has more aerobic and anaerobic benefits than an hour of steady-state cardio—all in 4 minutes! Try it out!

6. Go to Youtube

The best thing about Youtube is that it’s free, and to me that’s a win-win: I don’t have to pay anything AND I get to workout without thinking about what to do! My two go-to Youtube channels are Yoga with Adrienne for yoga (duh) and PopSugar Fitness for HIIT workouts. Other friends of mine like HASfit and Fitness Blender. There is so much to choose from, from Pilates to dance to everything in between. For kids, check out Cosmic Kids Yoga. The instructor has kiddos act out stories using yoga poses.

7. Pure Barre on Demand

This is a fitness app that runs a little pricier than many other, $30 a month, but that’s consistent with Pure Barre’s pricing. As it suggests, the app offers Pure Barre classes that members can filter by length, equipment, and body part. I’m personally not a huge fan of barre classes but if you are, it’s worth checking out!

8. My Fitness by Jillian Michaels

People seem to either love or hate Jillian, but I personally love her! She’s a little abrasive but she really knows her stuff when it comes to personal training. Her app allows you to customize your workouts by length and body part, and also includes nutrition. It costs $15 a month and offers discounts for longer subscriptions.

You’re perfect just the way you are! But if fitness is a goal in 2021, you have some great options to choose from!

Kristin
Kristin moved to San Antonio from Baltimore in 2006. Although she had a brief 2 year stay in Fort Worth, the margaritas, breakfast tacos and the kind souls of our residents drew her back for good. She's a third grade teacher and group fitness instructor, and single mom to Molly (2009), Sadie (2011), Daisy (dog) and Charlie (cat). When she has free time, she's either training for a half marathon or on a patio somewhere with a Titos and soda. Favorite Restaurant: Sustenio Favorite Landmark: The Pearl Brewery Favorite San Antonio Tradition: The Elf Movie parties at Alamo Drafthouse