The wearable company Fitbit recently posted some interesting statistics showing that fewer steps are being taken by people in several countries  during the COVID-19 crisis. Assuming these people wear a Fitbit rather than a dress watch, they are presumably already aware of the virtues of regular activity. Some simple data analysis (the best kind) shows that people are moving less in 2020 than they did in 2019 - social distancing may mean less moving around. Put simply, people are more of less staying at home, and when they do, they move less. We are not just flying less, we are walking less, and whilst one may be good for the planet, the other is not good for public health.

Our immune system needs to be at full alert right now, and regular activity is good for that. Exercise is also good for our mental health, metabolism, body composition, bone density, heart health, sleep, and our mood.

Part of the downward spiral effect of inactivity is that some of the functions that help us to move well can deteriorate quickly - if we don’t use them, we lose them! We become more exposed to aches, pains and accidents, like falls, especially when we are older. 

Three of the main functions that we need to maintain, for the injury and pain free life that we all yearn for, are balance, strength and co-ordination. Failure to do so can cause changes in the way we move. We start to substitute normal efficient movement with ‘substitution patterns’ - a medical term for cheating in order to get the job done. Just watch people walk down the street and all kinds of interesting moves will get your attention. Some will be symptom-free of course – the human body is resilient. However, if you are brave enough to interview them, the majority will report aches and pains that prevent them from being as active as they might like. So instead of going to the gym, they sit on the sofa, eat chips and watch Netflix. I would like to see the data on home delivery + crisp sales + Netflix activity in relation to step counts of the past weeks! 

The way we move is just as important as how much we move. Ask anyone practicing dance, yoga, pilates, tai chi, and qigong. Moving more is great, but only by moving well will you be able to move more in a sustainable way. This is relevant to a long sports career or simply a long and independent life.

For the sake of your health and happiness, if you are feeling well and able, try to get in 30 minutes of daily activity that raises your heart rate and causes you to break a sweat. There is plenty of material online. If you have pain or difficulty moving, arrange an online consultation with a physical therapist – you may be surprised by how quickly personalised corrective exercises take effect.

Move well then move more,

Glenn Bilby

Human Movement Scientist, Physiotherapist

Founding CEO, Qinematic