Right now, it doesn’t seem as though there exists a “business as usual” mantra. In fact, it’s starting to feel less like we’re going to “return to normalcy,” and instead begin fresh, in a seemingly new world.  Everyone is banding together in their own ways to support one another, remain as socially active as possible (tough for those extroverts out there), and find new at-home routines that are helping them rediscover their own wellness during this time.  

This shifting landscape is especially true in the fitness world, specifically for studios and gyms. In a time of closures and social distancing, there’s seemingly no way for these businesses to provide services to their members the way they did only a few weeks ago. While this seems like a lose-lose for both sides, because the businesses still need a revenue stream to ride out the COVID-19 era, and their members—now more than ever—still need the benefits of physical activity and togetherness, Mindbody is doing everything we can to support both sides impacted by this.  

Now, through Mindbody.io, as well as in your Mindbody app, when you search virtual, you will find a growing number of live and prerecorded classes to enjoy. Let’s get into how virtual classes can help you right now: 

Physical Wellness: Staying fit in a stay-at-home world 

With times being as uncertain as they are, it perhaps has never been more important to prioritize wellness in our daily lives. While Mindbody focuses on all seven dimensions on wellness, let's dig into one of the more actionable ones: Physical wellness.  

Now that we’re cooped up indoors more than usual, we need to counterbalance the extra sitting/Netflixing/day-drinking with a good sweat. Maintaining your fitness routine now not only helps with your current calorie-in-calorie-out conundrum but also keeps you on track so that when things do return to normal, you won’t have lost your fitness mojo.  

[Search virtual in your area on Mindbody.io!]

But perhaps even more important than the physical benefits are the emotional ones. Being sedentary lowers our mood—and our immunity. Plus, it’s just really boring. With the added stress of so many of our kids (and partners) being home more than usual and right there in our personal space, throwing your earbuds in and getting in a good cathartic workout can help break the monotony and get your mind right. 

[Check out the Mindbody At-Home Workout Routine Here] 
 

Bridging the Gaps: Working out alone—together 

Many gyms and studios are starting to offer their “virtual” classes on Mindbody.io and the Mindbody app, but If you don’t see much being offered by gyms in your area just yet, don’t worry! More and more studios are adding classes every day.  

[Read our Guide to How You Can Support Local Studios Right Now] 

But think about it: what’s really cool about virtual classes is that—because they’re virtual—you’re not just limited to studios in your area. Broaden your search! From your living room in Los Angeles, you can drop in on a class happening in New York. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new. 

On the Mindbody app: Pop open your Mindbody app, and search “virtual.” You will be able to see any classes in your areas, from yoga and Pilates, to spin and even guided meditations. Select the class you want, whether a tried and true workout or a brand new sweat, now’s the perfect time to keep your wellness in line, virtually. 
 

On Mindbody.io: Head over to Mindbody.io and find the virtual drop-down in the top navigation. Here, you will be able to filter and find all the virtual classes in your area... and beyond. Or, just click here to see the classes in your area already filtered. 
 

[Show me Virtual Classes in my area]
 

NOTE: If you aren’t seeing many virtual classes in your area, don’t be discouraged. The beauty of virtual classes, again, is being able to transport anywhere in the country, or world for that matter, and jump in on a class of your choice.  

Virtual classes make a real difference 

The COVID-19 epidemic isn’t doing the economy any favors, and fitness services are being hit especially hard. If you’re a lover of fitness and the businesses that provide it—and the fact that you’re reading this article means you probably are—taking advantage of these virtual classes is an excellent way to support these businesses in their time of need.  It’s a total win-win: they get to continue living their passion and driving value to their clients, and you get a body-sculpting, spirit-lifting workout. Each side supports the other when everyone needs it most. 

[Read our letter to the Wellness Community and how to support businesses] 

Remember, we are getting through this together, and together we will emerge stronger. To show your local studios support during this time, tag them on social media, along with @Mindbody, and we will support in any way we can.