During the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the gym where I normally exercise closed completely for an extended period. I knew I needed to continue engaging in physical activity because this is such an important way for me to maintain my physical health and my mental and emotional well-being. I also wanted to make sure that the physical activity was done outside to ensure I did my part to keep others and myself safe from COVID-19. For several months, I walked a few miles per day at a nearby park. I put on my headphones, listened to music, and enjoyed the sunshine and beautiful weather. Then I took off my headphones and started to meet other people who came to the park due to gym closures and other life interruptions resulting from COVID-19 (we stayed six feet apart, of course). It was nice connecting with some neighbors I had never met before.
After some time, I got bored with my daily walks, and the exercise I got from the walks did not seem to be enough for me. Near the park in my neighborhood was a community basketball court. I played a few sports growing up, bu