With the warm-weather months here and coronavirus restrictions easing, many people are looking at ways to stay safe yet enjoy the great outdoors at the same time. Fortunately, most experts agree that the COVID-19 virus is not easily transmitted outside, making outdoor activities where social distancing can be practiced a good option for exercise and recreation.
Schenectady Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a list of five outdoor activities that are considered low-risk during the pandemic.
Going to the Beach
Going to the beach can be high-risk if it is crowded. If you find a secluded spot and the crowd is sparse, it would turn into a low-risk activity. Be sure to setup at least 6 feet apart from other groups. There isn’t much of a risk in the water itself, as the virus doesn’t transmit through water, but being in close proximity to other people is the main concern.
Jogging
Jogging is considered low-risk as long as you keep your distancing when passing other joggers and pedestrians. You may want to avoid busy parks and trails where there are more people staying in one place.
Biking
Biking is also considered low-risk, but like running, people are asked to be careful when passing by other people.
Tennis
Outdoor tennis courts are considered a fairly safe option because of the distance the players are away from each other. It would be best not to share equipment, and make sure each player is equipped with enough tennis balls so that they don’t have to be touched by other players. You may want to use ones with different colors or markings, this way you know which ones are safe to touch.
Golf
Golf is another activity that is low-risk, as long as social distancing protocols are followed. This means each person not living in the same household should use their own cart, and most courses aren’t allowing flagsticks to be pulled from the holes themselves.
To learn more about Schenectady Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://schenectady-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.
