The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the world of sports, as well as on the physical and mental well-being of people around the world. But that doesn't mean you have to give up all your outdoor fun. Here are some tips and guidance on how to safely enjoy fun outdoor activities during the pandemic. Professional sports leagues have suspended or canceled their seasons, and gyms across the country have gone dark.
Telecommuters follow instructions from fitness experts online in their own homes. Recent instructions from federal, state and local governments to contain the coronavirus include avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people, which would include many outdoor amateur sports. But there are still ways to get your exercise outdoors. Camps may pose less risk if campers are from the same area, don't share objects, wear masks, get vaccinated when possible, wash their hands regularly, and spend time outdoors with at least 6 feet (2 meters) apart.
Outdoor facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, golf courses and swimming pools can be used by people in accordance with the broader limits of social contact (6 or two household rule). For unvaccinated people, outdoor activities that are close to where you live and that leave enough space between you and others pose a lower risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus than indoor activities. Major sports organizations have shown solidarity with efforts to reduce the spread of the virus. Therefore, there is concern that lack of access to regular sports or exercise routines may result in challenges to the immune system and physical health. The digital divide not only has an impact on distance banking, learning or communication, but also on the benefit of access to virtual sports opportunities.
As the resumption of normal life during COVID-19 takes effect immediately, guidelines for outdoor exercise, recreational activities, and return to competitive sports should be enacted with caution. Sport has long been considered a valuable tool for fostering communication and building bridges between communities and generations. We collect tips and guidance on how the sports and physical activity industry has prepared and can prepare for a safe and continuous return to the game.
