Is the daily constitutional here to stay?

Magenta’s recent exploration into health and wellbeing shows COVID-19 has thrown wellbeing into stark relief with people saying they have considered it more since the start of the pandemic than ever before. Lockdown has also put the spotlight on the intrinsic link between physical and mental health and its contribution to an overall positive sense of wellbeing. Being outdoors, being active, connecting with nature and living a perceived better work life balance have all contributed significantly to people’s wellbeing.

Many people have used physical activity as an antidote to the stress and tension induced by COVID-19. Even if the original driver for exercise was for physical fitness this rapidly evolves, and the benefit becomes overwhelmingly emotional and mental.  Exercise often provides a relief from daily chores and this has been more acutely felt during the pandemic where pressures in the home or just being inside a lot means activity and exercise offer an even greater release. 

For those who were heavily into exercise prior to lockdown, especially the gym, many struggled initially having had their routine disrupted and their normal avenue to alleviate tension curtailed.  They adapted as best they could to maintain exercise as part of their routine perhaps by purchasing equipment for the home or trying a new activity e.g. running rather than going to the gym or signing up to fitness apps or watching videos. As we emerge from lockdown, this group are very keen to get their old routines back and are relieved gyms are open again. By contrast, previously busy commuters, who didn’t have time to do as much exercise as they would’ve liked, pre-pandemic, have adopted new regimes that working from home allows. In fact, they are reticent to return to the old normal because they don’t want to relinquish the work life balance benefits COVID-19 has afforded them.

The humble walk has been the universal pressure valve during lockdown. For those not previously active, many have recently discovered the benefits of simply going for a walk, using this activity as a ‘ctrl, alt, delete’ for the mind, and so many have integrated this into their daily routine. According to exercise app Strava, in February 2021 there were 6.3 times more walkers in London and the South East compared to the same time last year. Obviously, walking will have grown during the pandemic as people had few other choices, but it seems to have taken on new status and acceptability.

SO, IS THE DAILY CONSTITUTIONAL HERE TO STAY?

Pre-pandemic a purposeless, and possibly solitary stroll, wasn’t necessarily seen as an appropriate use of time but now its value is highly appreciated and actively encouraged. People have experienced the positive effect of a walk; to get perspective, breathe in fresh air, gain head space and help with daily step count goals. It is a quick fix to regain balance and improve wellbeing.