Outdoor Gym

Photo by Patrick Jones. Working out with Maya. 10 Jul 2020.

Before COVID-19, when I wasn't traveling I visited our local YMCA every other day, using various free weights, exercise equipment and shooting some occasional hoops. In early March I had dropped down to a very fit, low body fat weight, and I was really pleased with my progress. With the quarantine & our home cooking, a lot of that good work went back to less fit levels. I was able to run during the quarantine period, but running doesn't burn the fat the same way that lifting weights does.

It didn't help that I waited too long to secure some free weights. Kettlebells completely sold out and are still difficult to find. I was able to order a 20 pound medicine ball in early April, and my dumbbells arrived at the end of June. Last weekend I found an 8 kg kettlebell at our local sporting goods store, but I still can't find a 10 kg or 12 kg size. At least it is a start. I'm still running, but I like free weights. Our YMCA has reopened at a lower capacity, with social distancing measures, temperature checks and limited equipment. When I visited the last time, they weren't allowing free weights, so I still need to source a few more items to round out my home gym.

The silver lining is that we have a very nice backyard & space in the garage, so there is room for a good outdoor workout space. Our black lab also enjoys the entertainment and she is a fun workout partner.

I still plan to visit our local Y (wearing a mask), but it is nice to have the outdoor gym.