While practicing social distancing, you can find creative ways to stay connected. As you settle into your new routine, remember to take care of yourself—physically and mentally. Now more than ever, it is important to stay connected to the activities that bring you joy. Here you will find some of our favorite ways to be a part of the sports and fitness community from home. Check back every Friday for a new, fun list.
- Meditation Apps
- Arts and Crafts Resources
- Sports Movies
- Accounts for Your Mental Health
- Sports Books
- Healthy Recipe Inspiration
- Iconic Sports Moments
- Influencers to Follow on Instagram
- Brands that are Supporting COVID-19 Relief Efforts
- Dance Classes
- Favorite Sports Documentaries
- Throwback Workout Videos
- Active Animals
Active Animals
Watch a tiny chihuahua with Cirque de Soleil-level skill enhance its owner’s backyard tumbling.
Attempting to jog with a mask for the first time might have you relating to these tiny floofs.
Downward dog takes on a whole new meaning with this collection of intrepid yoga pups and their flexible owners.
Fitness has never looked as cute as this pomeranian crushing its home workout. Come for the handstands, stay for the outfits.
This suited-up corgi looks as ready to get back in the pool—we can relate!
Throwback Workout Videos
Jane Fonda’s Original Workout – 1982
The ultimate throwback exercise video, Jane Fonda’s original workout VHS tape sold more than 17 million copies worldwide. Tone your arms, abs, hips, and glutes to retro music, and stay motivated with Jane’s charming pep talk.
Disney’s Mousercize – 1983
The whole family will enjoy working out with Mickey and the rest of the Disney crew. Earn bonus points for channeling your inner Goofy by rocking your brightest leotard and bandana combo.
Gilad’s Total Body Sculpt – 1983
Gilad’s fitness series, Bodies in Motion, is the longest-running fitness show in the United States. It launched in 1983 and is still being televised today. Travel back in time to the beaches of Hawaii for a respectable total-body workout and be soothed by words of encouragement in his familiar Israeli accent.
Richard Simmons’ Sweatin’ to the Oldies – 1988
Richard Simmons’ energy is unparalleled, and this 10-minute dancercise video is perfect for a quick post-lunch groove session. If you have half as much fun as his backup crew, you’ll be grinning and sweating in no time.
Cindy Crawford’s Shape Your Body – 1992
Cindy Crawford is as ageless as her famous workout. Her moves are broken down into easy-to-follow sets of three and include squats, lunges, sit-ups, crunches, and weights.The workout is elevated by Seal singing softly in the background.
Billy Blanks’ Tae-Bo™ Workout – 1998
Seven-time world karate champion Billy Blanks’ exercise videos shine in a socially distanced fitness world. His standing-in-place cardio workout cycles are perfect for at-home routines and incorporate boxing, kickboxing, dance, and aerobics all in one.
Favorite Sports Documentaries
Hoop Dreams
Hoop Dreams tells the story of two high school basketball players in Chicago and their dream of making it to the NBA. The film demonstrates the importance of sports in these young athletes’ lives and displays the challenges and successes involved in becoming elite players. While three hours is on the longer side for a documentary, it is perfect for a Saturday afternoon at home.
How to watch: Hulu and HBO Now
ESPN Films 30 for 30: Pony Excess
Pony Excess documents the rise, fall, and rebirth of the South Methodist University Football program, which held the best record in college football from 1981 to 1984. When winning became all that mattered to the university and its financial backers, the team was pressed to routinely break NCAA rules – and paid dearly for the consequences.
How to watch: Rent from Prime Video for $1.99
Dare to Dream: The Story of the US Women’s Soccer Team
Dare to Dream tells the journey of the rise of the US Women’s National Soccer Team and its quest to win the 1999 Women’s World Cup. The three-part documentary includes interviews from five players, dubbed the 99ers, who became the faces of US soccer: Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, Christine Lilly, Joy Fawcett, and Brandi Chastain. The series shows how this team paved the way for future female athletes and the power of believing in yourself to achieve your dreams.
How to watch: YouTube: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Ballplayer: Pelotoro
Pelotoro follows young baseball players in the Dominican Republic fighting to make it to the MLB, revealing the corruption of recruitment in the world of professional baseball.
How to watch: Rent from Prime Video for $2.99
Losers
In a world obsessed with winning, what can we learn from failure? This eight-part documentary series interviews athletes who have turned their most crushing losses into positive experiences. It covers players from the worlds of golf, curling, boxing, endurance running, and figure skating.
How to watch: Netflix
Cheer
This gripping docuseries follows the dramatic ups and downs of Navarro College’s competitive cheer squad on its way to the National Championship. If you have never heard of competitive cheerleading, this show does an incredible job displaying the physical and emotional demands of the sport. The series will leave you in awe of Navarro teammates’ enthusiasm, perseverance, and determination to bring home the trophy..
How to watch: Netflix
The Last Dance
Through archival footage and candid interviews, The Last Dance paints a detailed portrait of the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s. This meticulous deep dive into the history of one of the greatest basketball teams of all time confirms that there’s nobody quite like Mike or the team he led to victory.
How to watch: ESPN App
Dance Classes
Learn what it takes to be a Radio City Rockette! Put your high kicks, jumps, and ball changes to the test every Thursday at 12pm when the Rockettes teach their famous dance moves via Instagram Live. It will feel like Christmas in July soon––the choreography is straight from "Christmas Spectacular."
Cost: Free
From ballet to jazz to improvisational movement to tap, Dancing Alone Together has classes for everyone. This collection of dance resources is currently being run single-handedly by Katherine Disenhof, a professional dancer who is donating her time while experiencing an extended furlough due to COVID-19 closures.
Cost: Free, suggested donation, per-class fees
For a workout-focused dance session, check out our virtual group exercise schedule for weekly barre, nia, and Zumba classes taught live from home by Asphalt Green instructors. Good tunes, moves, and a sweat session are great ways to stay connected to the Asphalt Green community.
Cost: Members: $10/class or $50 for monthly unlimited; Non-members: $15/class or $60 for monthly unlimited.
NOTE: Members must log in through their home campus (Upper East Side and Battery Park City) in order to receive the discounted rate.
Alvin Collantes is a certified Gaga instructor based in Berlin. His program, Dose of Pleasure, is a joyful, freeform, movement-based meditation. Alvin encourages dancers to improvise with guided prompts. You will end class sweaty and feeling great!
Cost: Free
Get kids moving with virtual classes from the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. The nonprofit offers a comprehensive dance curriculum for students ages 4 and up. Check out its weekly schedule of virtual classes via Zoom. Follow @officaldadance on Instagram for free classes and other resources.
Cost: $3 donation/class
Stretch your mind and your body with virtual 45-minute workshops from the New York City Ballet. Every Monday and Thursday at 6pm, tune in for a ballet warm-up and movement combination inspired by the company’s iconic repertory. Workshops are geared towards young adults and adults of all levels; no experience required.
Cost: Free
Keep dancing at home with live online classes taught by Ailey Extension instructors. Experience a variety of styles, including samba, West African, hip-hop, ballet, Afro-Cuban, and more. Ailey Extension was created to continue Alvin Ailey's legacy that dance comes from the people and should be given back to the people. It also offers free on-demand routines and shares where you can find its instructors’ classes on Instagram.
Cost: $12/class
Brands that are Supporting COVID-19 Relief Efforts
For when it’s time to sweat: Adidas
Adidas doesn’t just keep Asphalt Green Soccer Club’s uniforms looking fresh. Purchases from the athletic company directly support the COVID-19 response. Adidas has donated $3.2 million to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund and is producing 18,000 3D-printed face shields a week for first responders and health care professionals in the U.S. Not to mention, we love Adidas shoes and funky athleisure, which are currently on sale.
For a post-workout treat: Theragun
This popular workout recovery device has taken the fitness world by storm. If you have been on the fence about getting one for yourself, the time is now. The company is having a sale on all of its percussive therapy tools, with a portion of the proceeds supporting Feeding America. Now you have two reasons to treat yourself and give back!
For grocery delivery: FreshDirect
Grocery delivery company FreshDirect makes it easy for you to give back to New Yorkers in need. Before checkout, don’t miss the option to add a donation to New York Common Pantry, which provides free meals and produce for individuals and families.
For when your hand-sanitizer runs out: The Honest Company
This eco-friendly company has committed to donating 3 million diapers, 30,000 packs of wipes, and 20,000 personal care products to help children in need. These essential items will be distributed through family resource centers, homeless shelters, health clinics and head start centers to families impacted by the spread of COVID-19. Plus, its award-winning plant-based hand sanitizer is moisturizing and free of synthetic fragrances – and it’s in stock!
For when you’re tired of cooking: DoorDash
Support local businesses, lend a hand to your community, and give yourself a break from the kitchen when you place your next takeout order with DoorDash. The food delivery company has partnered with Mount Sinai to donate free meals and membership service to 42,000 healthcare workers. In addition, DoorDash’s ongoing partnership with Feeding America, Project DASH, helps restaurant owners with food surplus connect with delivery workers who transport it to the nearest shelter. The result? Over 1.7 million pounds of food have made it into the homes of those in need since the program was founded in 2018.
Favorite Meditation Apps
Headspace – Something for everyone.
Headspace is one of the most well-known meditation apps. Choose from hundreds of guided meditations, including exercises for anxiety, emergencies, relaxation, sleep, focus, compassion, kids, and more. We especially love its animations that work as visual aids to help you better understand meditation.
Cost: Free two-week trial and selection of meditations at no cost through the COVID-19 crisis. $69.99/year after trial.
Wellzen – If your kids want to join.
While Welzen has content appropriate for all ages, its dedicated section for kids is what impressed us the most. The app does a great job introducing the concepts of mindfulness and meditation in an age-appropriate manner, with categories for kids under 6 years, 7-9 years, and 10-12 years. Children can learn about the importance of breathing and posture in a playful and engaging way.
Cost: Three days free, then $29.99/year
Sanvello – If you want to build a daily practice.
Sanvello utilizes techniques borrowed from scientifically proven cognitive behavioral therapy to promote mental health and wellness. Designed to be used as a daily tool, the app is comprised of quick mindfulness activities to help address stress and anxiety at a gradual pace. Sanvello also fosters a supportive community and encourages users to share their meditation journeys.
Cost: Free premium access through COVID-19 crisis
Calm – If you want variety.
If you’re looking for more variety in your meditation options, choose Calm. The app provides guided sessions from three to 25 minutes long on topics ranging from calming anxiety to gratitude to mindfulness at work. We also like its soothing nature sounds and breathing exercises. Its website, calmtogether.com, is a great source of free mental health resources while social distancing to mine as needed.
Cost: Seven-day free trial, then $69.99/year
Oak – If you only have five minutes.
Oak is afree meditation and breathing app. If you only have five minutes to spare, slot one of its meditations into your day to help you feel grounded. Oak has three sections: meditate, breathe, and sleep. The exercises are divided into categories suitable for first-timers and those looking to take a deeper dive into their consistent practice.
Cost: Free
Favorite Arts and Crafts Resources
ARTBAR’s mantra is “raising creative thinkers,” and its thoughtful craft ideas are perfect for young children all the way through teens and adults. Many projects are designed with materials you likely have at home. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can order supplies online for more advanced crafts. We also love its weekly “learning at home” curriculum ideas, which incorporate classroom studies into art projects.
Whether you’re a parent needing some quality coloring time or a family looking to craft together, Crayola has you covered. Each week, it provides themed craft ideas, activities, free coloring sheets, and more. You can even tune in to live craft demonstrations on its Facebook page. Check upcoming events here.
If you’re looking for an activity for the whole family, have a painting party! PaintingParties.com brings the experience of guided painting directly to your living room. Exercises are designed for all ages and ability levels. Adults can even put a creative spin on Zoom happy hours with a private paint ‘n sip party.
Local business The Creator's Workshop provides hands-on creative projects for parents, teachers, and caregivers for simple, unique ways to play and connect with young children. Most activities are designed for kindergarteners and younger. Each project includes information on the developmental appropriateness of the materials and ways it can be customized for your family’s needs.
Easy Peasy and Fun offers paid and free craft ideas for elementary school kids. We appreciate that its crafts require little-to-no-prep time. They are also organized by theme, making it easy for you to browse by your kids’ interests–or to get a jump-start on Mother’s Day crafts! You’ll also find printables, how-to-draw tutorials, and coloring pages.
Favorite Sports Movies
Remember the Titans
Remember the Titans address racial issues in the United States and demonstrates the power of sport in bringing people together. The movie is based on a true story of a newly appointed African-American coach and his high school team on their first season as a racially integrated unit.
How to watch: Disney+
Miracle
Miracle is a film about the American team’s ice hockey victory in the 1980 Olympics over the heavily favored Soviet squad. The coaching moments from this movie are used in youth sports today. Even though you know the ending, reliving this iconic sports moment will have you on the edge of your seat.
How to watch: Netflix and Disney+
Hoosiers
Hoosiers is the ultimate underdog story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team coached by a man with a troubled past.
How to watch: Hulu
A League of Their Own
A League of Their Own is a fictional account of the first female baseball team. Set during World War II, this movie shatters stereotypes about women competing at a high level in sports.
How to watch: Rent on Prime Video or Vudu for $2.99
Field of Dreams
An Iowa farmer hears a voice telling him to build a baseball field. Players from the infamous 1919 Chicago White Sox team return from the past to play ball!
How to watch: Hulu
Favorite Accounts for Your Mental Health
Your mental health is equally as important as your physical well-being. In fact, they are more connected than you think. These accounts share healthy perspectives and make you feel a little less alone during these uncertain times.
Self-Care is for Everyone - @selfcareisforeveryone
This account exists to remind you that you matter and are worthy of self-care. Each post is more inspiring and thoughtful than the last. Follow for reminders to check in with yourself, quarantine tips, and insight on how to practice mindfulness.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness - @namicommunicate
The National Alliance on Mental Illness is a nonprofit that is breaking the stigma of mental illness. NAMI envisions a world where all Americans receive mental health support. In recent weeks, the organization has been sharing tips on how to cope with the global pandemic, look after your mental health, and care for others.
Shine is a self-care community. You can download the app or follow on Instagram for tips on managing stress and anxiety. Shine is a friendly reminder to feel your feels and provides actionable tips from a community of experts.
Lisa Olivera - @lisaoliveratherapy
Lisa Olivera shares her insight as a therapist on Instagram. Her posts read like poetry, and she creates graphics, lists, and charts that encourage curiosity and reflection.
Author of Choose Wonder Over Worry, Amber Rae shares journal prompts to navigate tricky emotions. You can even download a free 30-day feelings journal.
Favorite Sports Books
Diving into a good book is one of our favorite quarantine activities. You may be at home, but your mind can be on the field.
Moneyball by Michael Lewis
Sports meets math. This is a true story about Oakland A’s manager Billy Beane’s pursuit to build a baseball team based on statistics rather than player reputation and history. This book changed the game of baseball—it was even turned into a movie in 2011. Many Major League Baseball teams have adopted the science of Moneyball to create their lineups.
Wins, Losses, and Lessons by Lou Holtz
One of the most iconic voices in sports, Lou Holtz’s autobiography is as uplifting as a self-help book. His writing and storytelling brims with positivity, leaving you walking away with an I-can-take-on-the-world mindset. It’s an underdog story about a man that rose to the top of the sports pile—armed with only hard work and a persistent good attitude.
Brilliant Orange: The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Soccer by David Winner
Brillant Orange explores the impact of soccer on Dutch culture. It’s a story about how soccer inspired a shift in mindset. From devastating losses to World Cup Finals, it’s one of those sports stories you just can’t put down.
Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen by Christopher McDougall
Often-injured runner Christopher McDougall sets out to study a Native Mexican tribe that boasts extreme marathoners who run barefoot or in thin sandals. This is the type of story that will inspire you, engage your mind, and help you realize that you were born to run.
Game On: The All-American Race to Make Champions of Our Children by Tom Farrey
Game On is a must-read for parents with kids in sports. Tom Farrey is the Executive Director of the Aspen Institute’s Sports and Society Program. It encourages parents to think introspectively about their relationship with their child from a sporting perspective. Although usually well-intentioned, parent’s put damaging amounts of pressure and expectation on their children’s athletic life. More often than not, this is damaging for the child’s future.
Favorite Instagram Accounts for Healthy Recipe Inspiration
Cookie and Kate features vegetarian recipes that pack a flavorful punch. Kate’s recipes use whole, sustainable ingredients that nourish the body and soul. Our mouths are watering over the enchilada casserole, chocolate peanut butter crispy bars, and colorful beet salad.
When you need something quick, easy, and delicious on your table, Minimalist Baker is your go-to source. All recipes require one bowl, 10 ingredients, or take 30 minutes or less to prepare. Many of the recipes (but not all) are plant based. Desserts are not the only recipes Minimalist Baker shares—you’ll see plenty of hearty entrees and breakfasts too.
Sometimes you just need comfort food. Tator tot casserole, need we say more? Julie Andrews is a registered dietitian and shares lightened up versions of classic eats. Her recipes use real and wholesome ingredients to incorporate nutritious foods into your diet.
Author of Healthyish, Lindsey Maitland Hunt shares simple recipes that make you feel like you’re eating gourmet every day. The ingredients are easy to find and recipes are well balanced. Your cleanup crew is also top of mind—the recipes use as few pots and pans as possible.
Have a picky eater in your family? Sophia of Veggies Don’t Bite is here to come to your rescue. Her recipes use plant-based ingredients that burst with flavor. Her three boys even approve of all of the meals. We’re eyeing the easiest lasagna ever.
Five Iconic Sports Moments in American History
Sports Illustrated named the "Miracle on Ice" as the top sports moment of the 20th century, and we couldn't agree more. Team USA’s 1980 Olympic hockey team beat the five-time champions USSR with all odds against them. Witness the miracle and watch the final minute of the greatest hockey game of all time.
Tiger Woods at the 16th Hole Augusta Masters
No one can forget Tiger Woods' iconic chip shot at the 16th hole at the 2005 Augusta Masters. With his ball in the rough, Tiger Woods stuns the crowd, makes the best shot of his career, and wins the tournament.
After 9/11, New York was devastated and many people were left in mourning. New York needed a supportive and strong community more than ever, and that's where baseball stepped in. The first Mets game back after 9/11, Mike Piazza scored a home run in the bottom of the 8th inning to beat the Atlanta Braves. Shea Stadium went wild, and for the first time in a while, New Yorkers felt hope. Watch this heartwarming moment in sports history.
Brandi Chastain’s Monumental Penalty Shot
Brandi Chastain is a two-time FIFA Women's World Cup champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and our hero. On July 10, 1999, Brandi scored the winning goal in a penalty shootout against China at the Women’s World Cup. Her celebration was captured on the covers of Sports Illustrated, Time, Newsweek, and newspapers around the world, creating one the greatest moments in women’s sports and soccer history.
Michael Jordan's winning shot in game six of the 1998 NBA Finals lives in basketball history as the most iconic of all time. Jordan drove to the middle of the floor with less than 10 seconds on the clock, stopped, crossed back over to his left, pushed off Bryon Russell, pulled back for the 20-footer, and hit nothing but net. It was an amazing moment in basketball history for a legendary player.
Six fitness influencers to follow on Instagram
Sarika Patel Ringer - @Sarikadancefitness
Asphalt Green’s very own group exercise instructor, Sarika, is a must follow on Instagram. Her page is full of energy, life, and dance! Follow Sarika for at-home dance routines that will get your body grooving.
Alexandra Sheppard - @Dancinggingerrelax
Alexandra is your go-to fitness and food junkie and a yoga and Pilates instructor at Asphalt Green. Her page will show you how to master the kettlebell swing and whip up healthy pumpkin pancakes. Alex is just what you need to guide you through quarantine life.
Steve Pokk - @Pokkfitness
As the owner of Pokkfitness, a CrossFit gym, Steve shares high-intensity workouts. His no-fuss routines get your heartrate and confidence up. Steve is the fitness inspiration we all need right now.
Kaisa Keranen - @kaisafit
Kaisa is fun, a little silly, and just what we need on our Instagram feed. She takes household items, like toilet paper and soup cans, and turns them into props for a not-so-boring workout.
Cassey Ho - @Blogilates
Cassey combines Pilates, yoga, and high-intensity interval training to create no-equipment-necessary workout routines. Get monthly exercise plans, healthy plant-based recipes, and daily workout videos.
Bob Harper - @bobharper
You probably know Bob Harper as the host of "The Biggest Loser," but you can also follow him on Instagram for inspirational quotes, adorable puppy pictures, and fitness tips. He will remind you every day that you are a winner!