Since the past few months, we have been confined to the four walls of the house due to the pandemic. But as we enter Unlock 1.0, things are about to change (rather, go back to normal). As we head towards resuming our everyday lives, it’s best to do so with the utmost precautions. Cause let’s not forget this: we’re not free from the virus and a vaccine hasn’t been developed yet.

The number one thing that fitness enthusiasts would want to do is finally step out of their house to work out. Even celebs like Kareena Kapoor Khan and Rakul Preet who were exercising in the comfort of their homes, during the lockdown, stepped out for a quick run and cycling session, respectively.

If you’re planning to resume your outdoor workouts (with your mask on, of course), here are five solid precautions you NEED to take to keep yourself and others safe.

 

01. Do not wear any makeup

01. Do not wear any makeup

As if working out with makeup on wasn’t bad enough, it gets worse with a mask on. It can trap a lot of oil, sweat and dirt on the skin in and around the mask leading to breakouts and skin infections. If you’re working out during the day, don’t forget to slather on a sunscreen such as the Pond’s Skin Fit Pre Work Out High Performance Sunscreen SPF50 to protect your skin from sun damage and keep premature ageing at bay.

 

02. Wash your mask after each use

02. Wash your mask after each use

One of the best ways to prevent yourself from catching the virus is to use a one-time mask or wash your reusable mask after every use. This little step will go a long way in keeping you and your family safe.

 

03. Avoid touching your face

03. Avoid touching your face

While working out outdoors, avoid touching your face with your hands to wipe away the sweat, especially if you have touched any foreign surface like railings, elevator buttons, doorbells, handles, etc. In addition to that, always keep a bottle of hand sanitiser such as Lifebuoy Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizer handy and use it immediately after touching any foreign surface.

 

04. Maintain social distancing

04. Maintain social distancing

Even though things have started to open up, it is not exactly safe outdoors. Therefore, avoid going for your jog with a bunch of friends, and maintain social distancing, even with your mask on.

 

05. Avoid public places

05. Avoid public places

When looking for a place to workout, avoid using your building gym. When working out at the gym, you will be touching a lot of surface which may lead to transfer of germs, and that’s obviously risky. Therefore, if you do want to step out for a quick workout sesh, choose to do so in late in the evening or early in the morning to minimise social contact. All being said, if possible stick to working out at home and stay safe!

Main image courtesy: @kareenakapoorkhan and @rakulpreet