As nurses, you know better than most how important it is to keep healthy and exercise regularly. You also know that sometimes you just don’t have the time or energy to do that run or visit a gym. And in this era of social distancing, going to the gym is less accessible for the time being. But in the wide world of smartphone/tablet/laptops, “there’s an app for that.” Here are a few suggestions to keep you motivated and moving, no matter what your favorite form of exercise may be.
Johnson & Johnson 7-minute Fitness (Apple, Android)
When time is of the essence (and when isn’t it?), surely you can squeeze out a few minutes for some high-intensity, high-reward circuit training. This app comes with a library of 72 exercises so you can spot-train or just get variety. Exercises are ranked Easy, Moderate, and Hard, letting you create a custom program that works best for you.
You may be a Peloton devotee, but it’s impractical to take your spin bike on assignments. Not to worry. Now, with the new Peloton app, you can access over 1000 Peloton classes and workouts that you can do without a stationary bike, from running to mediation. It’s a fairly hefty $12.99/month, but there’s a free 30-day trial to test it out. (Apple, Android)
As the title says, no equipment is needed to do these workouts, just your own body weight. Workouts for your abs, chest, legs, arms, and glutes, as well as full body workouts. Free, or $2.99 for the ad-free version. (Apple, Android)
Need motivation to take your daily run? Maybe being chased by zombies will help you break into a trot. This combo running game/exercise app puts you in the center of the action. It’s free, too. (Apple only)
If a screeching alarm clock starts off your working day, there’s a better way to ease into your morning. Yoga Wake Up gently nudges you awake with quiet, contemplative music and gentle yoga exercises you can do in bed. Free with in-app purchases available. (Apple, Android)
If you’ve ever wanted to explore the ancient meditation/martial art Tai Chi, this app will give you some basic patterns. These relaxing, supple movements will help quiet your mind and body after a busy day on the job. Free. (Apple, Android)