I wondered how long the pandemic would last.
When the first lockdown orders were put into effect, I figured it would last a month or two.
I did not foresee a multi-year problem that would totally impact almost every aspect of my life. Who could have predicted the global significance and the effects on all industries, including manufacturing, travel and health and fitness. All of the restaurants in my local state were forced to close at the beginning of the pandemic. Many of those businesses survived by implementing competitive home delivery services. I started cooking more last year. I used the quarantine as an opportunity to start eating healthy. Rather than buying meals from restaurants, I was purchasing fruits, vegetables and lean proteins from the grocery store. I changed my diet considerably and noticed the difference in my weight and body shape. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to sign up at a local gym or fitness center. These facilities were closed for over six months. Even when they were allowed to resume operation, the restrictions were so severe that it was ridiculous. No one is willing to work out in a mask. No one is going to make the trip to the gym when they could be turned away if the place is at 20% capacity. Now that the gyms are finally open again, they’re offering lowered membership fees to encourage people to join. They definitely lost a lot of their regular members. I have taken advantage of the discounts. I am so happy to be able to workout at the gym again. While I did my best to manage my fitness at home, I only have limited equipment. It was difficult to stay motivated. I now have access to all the amenities as well as group training classes.