'LOVE IN LOCKDOWN' EPISODE 3: 'FREE WORKOUTS?' CHARLOTTE AND VICTORIA

Since the first lockdown in March, 'home workouts' have become extremely popular. 

With the pandemic leading to lockdown, gyms suddenly closing and those working in the fitness industry taking a hit, working out from home has not only become an alternative to the gym, but a new way of continuing business. Proving that you don't need a gym to move your body, or to look after your body and mind.

During Lockdown, as well as working to continue online personal training and zoom sessions, many established fitness influencers have used the Social Media app 'Instagram' to share 'Live Workouts' where followers can watch and follow along with their workout live from home. A lot of influencers have used these 'Live Workouts' via Instagram to support themselves with a form of income, sharing information about a monthly or weekly cost for the workouts and then allowing access to an account where the lives then take place. However, others are sharing them for free. Offering Live workouts to their followers as a kind gesture and selfless act to help and support others during this time. 

IN CONVERSATION WITH CHARLOTTE SAUNDERS VICTORIA LAYZELL:

Charlotte (22) and Victoria (24) are qualified Personal Trainers and Performers living in Kent and started running their own free weekly 30 minute live workouts on Instagram over Lockdown, five times a week. When the Performing industry came to a halt, they wanted to support other performers and those who aren't to continue to move their bodies and look after themselves. The workouts are then uploaded to their pages so anyone who missed it live can watch them back at any time. Both pride themselves in moving your body for fun and wellbeing, rather than associating exercise with pressure, standards, punishment or aesthetics. Their workouts are for everyone, they provide for a range of ages and abilities with a shared aim of supporting as many people as they can over this challenging time.

CHARLOTTE: 
Instagram: @charlottesaundersx
Live Workouts: Monday-Friday at 10:30am

'Be kind, keep in contact with as many friends and family as you can, and don't be afraid to look after yourself first. Don't put pressure on yourself to keep busy and be smiling all the time, it's impossible and it's a difficult time for everyone right now.'

'I am a Performer and Qualified Personal Trainer wanting to spread happiness, promote a healthy lifestyle, positivity and longevity. I'm here for long term support and guidance, not a quick fix', she says.

'I started my online business and live workouts during lockdown to reach out to and help more people globally. I chose to do the Live Workouts for free to support anyone and everyone, to aid motivation and a sense of routine and structure and release endorphins.'

'I love everything about my job', she smiles. 'It's the most rewarding feeling knowing people are joining in and feeling good as a result. It sets them up for the day. It's important to me to help others to look after their wellbeing, keep spirits up and keep people smiling. It's such a difficult time and I believe a little movement and exercise can really help', she admits. 'I particularly love doing my 'Stagey Sweat Fest' on a Thursday... we work out for half an hour to just Musical Theatre songs. Performers coming together to celebrate our industry whilst working out at the same time. It makes me so happy and I hope everyone that does them is smiling along!', she grins.

'It's very humbling knowing I'm helping others, the response can be overwhelming actually, others telling me how grateful they are and the positive impact I'm making. I've been sent endless kind messages, thanking me during this unknown and isolating time for bringing people together and caring for others physical and mental health'. 'I advice moving your body in a way that feels good to you, removing pressure.' 'Lots of people see physical transformations as well as mental, telling me they feel more confident in their own skin, which is beyond amazing', she beams.

'I've learnt that there are a lot of positives from Social Media, you choose who you follow and what you share, so I say follow those who make you feel good and positive, and be you', she states. 'I've learnt how much impact exercise can have in helping mind-set, endorphins and mood. It's also helped me experiment with different exercises, workouts and styles which is always exciting!, she tells me.

'You can get involved by following my Instagram! 10:30am Monday to Friday for 30 minutes, I do save them on my feed so you can do them whenever suits you. Spread the word, it's all for free... the more the merrier', she exclaims.

VICTORIA
Instagram: @victorialayzell
Live Workouts: Monday and Wednesday 7am, Sunday 9am

'I'm helping others to get moving during this challenging time, but also supporting an incredible charity... it's a win win!'

'I am doing my workouts for free on Instagram, but as I do them I'm raising money for the charity 'Crisis', which supports the homeless. You can donate via my JustGiving Page' (https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/victoria-layzell), she explains.

'I want to raise as much money as possible for an incredible charity, and hopefully help others to be grateful for what they have rather than what they don't have. Supporting a charity that's close to your heart is so rewarding. I always try and do some sort of charity work or fundraising around Christmas, but Coronavirus was an even bigger reason to choose this particular charity', she states.

'It's lovely to receive such incredible feedback from my friends and family', she smiles. 'People have said that having a structure to their week where they can workout from home during this current climate has had a lot of mental benefits, so that's amazing to hear', she shares.

'You can take part in my Live Workouts by getting involved on Instagram, and also any donations to my JustGiving page will be greatly appreciated and support such an important charity'.

'I encourage you to focus on the positive things in your life, remember to always be kind to yourself'.'

https://www.instagram.com/charlottesaundersx/
https://www.instagram.com/victorialayzell/

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