The transition to eLearning was extended to at least May 1 by Governor Greg Abbott on Tuesday, and for many students that means finding new ways to stay active and healthy while staying at home.

“I’ve been working out everyday as well as maintaining a healthy diet,” junior Franny Trezza said. “Some things I’ve been incorporating into my routine is cardio. I usually lift more than anything but I don’t have all the equipment needed soI do a lot of HITT workouts and bodyweight stuff.”  

Head volleyball coach Ui Womble has found several workouts for her P.E. students that anyone can do and picked up on some new healthy habits.

“All activities can be completed at home,” Womble said. “I’d also recommend the Peloton app (free right now), lots of fitness clubs are also making daily workouts available. OrangeTheory fitness is another I’ve used. Taking frequent stand and stretch breaks, getting outside and making good food choices are ways to stay healthy.”

All gyms in the area have closed due to COVID-19, yet senior Zach Bishop has found his home gym very useful.

“I’m actually really lucky,” Bishop said. “I have a little weight set in my garage so it’s been easy sticking to my normal routine. For myself I’ve just tried to stay as busy as possible, whether that be going to lift or play basketball or whatever just trying to do stuff throughout my day.”

Even though Trezza has been able to stay active, she has been struggling with mindful eating.

“The biggest challenge is food,” Trezza said. “My dad loves to cook and he makes great food and my grandma has been baking a lot so I feel like there’s food everywhere. I’m just trying to make healthier choices throughout the day so I can have that sweet treat or something as well.” 

Unlike Trezza, Bishop finds staying at home to be more of a mental challenge.

 “My biggest challenge has been keeping my hopes up for the rest of senior year,” Bishop said. “Having so much cancelled and delayed is really frustrating not knowing what’s to come.” 

Although quarantine life is slowly becoming the new norm, Trezza believes it’s important to take things day by day.

“My advice for people is to compromise for yourself and take baby steps,” Trezza said. “If it’s cardio you hate but need to do, try some interval workouts with breaks in between. Find a good balance that you don’t dread. Working out and being healthy shouldn’t be painful. It should help you maintain a positive mindset overall.”