How to stay active and healthy at home in Townsville

Townsville City Council wants you to get up and get active at home while we work together to slow the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Social distancing restrictions put in place by the Federal Government have closed gyms, public pools, playgrounds and outdoor gyms. But this doesn’t mean you can’t get a good workout in at home.

Mayor Jenny Hill said there were plenty of ways to get active while observing social distancing restrictions.

“The restrictions in place limit the number of people you can exercise with – either with one friend, or with your household,” Cr Hill said.

“A number of outdoor areas have been restricted for use, which means that now is the perfect time to take advantage of your backyard, front yard and surrounding streets.

“That’s why Council has created a webpage dedicated to how you can stay active and healthy at home.”

Cr Hill said exercise was not only good for physical health, but for mental health too.

“We’re going through something that’s never been experienced before,” she said.

“So while getting 30 minutes of exercise a day is important for your body, it’s also really important for your mind and is a great way to bond with your family, partner or housemates during this time.

“To get involved, head to Townsville Shines and check out our Staying Active and Healthy At Home page.”

For more information about COVID-19, head to health.qld.gov.au.

No-equipment work out

Four rounds for time

Ten reps of:

• Push ups
• Sit ups
• Lunges/leg
• Squats
• Crunches

Family workout

#plankchallenge with your family – stay active and healthy inside your home!

Let each family member have a turn at a plank. One person to be the timber, each member to have a go. The person that stays up the longest is your winner!

Outdoor craft fun

Craft fun for the kids!

Create a nature mask using leaves, flowers and grass from your backyard.

For instructions and to download templates visit: https://www.healthier.qld.gov.au/healthy-families/getting-active/crafty-nature-masks/

Happy health honey toasted muesli

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• ½ cup sunflower seeds/pepitas or chopped nuts or coconut flakes
• ½ cup dried fruit (sultanas, cranberries, dates etc)
• 1 cup puffed rice
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Method:

Place oats, seeds/nuts and puffed cereal into a frypan that is on moderate heat.

Toast for five minutes until ingredients are lightly browned. Set aside.

Heat four tablespoons honey on medium heat with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon until runny. Toss muesli through till golden brown and all covered.

Allow to cool slightly then mix in fruit. Allow to cool.

Store in an airtight container.