MADISON- The recent outbreak of Covid-19 across the globe has also hit right here in Madison, but good hygiene along with persistence in the fight to prevent the spread of what could be a deadly virus can save us all. For those who are active, particularly competitive runners or just the casual strolls most take on a regular basis, the lockdown can be very upsetting and can be downright annoying.

Fleet Feet Sports of Huntsville and soon a location in Madison is offering a Curb Side Service available from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. every day. By taking your orders either by phone or on-line, the business is able to reach its goal of putting people first- customers, employees, race participants or the general public.

Fleet Feet came up with a way all those who want to continue to exercise and have the feeling of being able to hold workouts with others by offering Run256 on Facebook and by having the motto of “Keepmoving.”

“We want to try and keep our community motivated through positive posts and e-mails on a daily basis,” said Suzanne Taylor, owner of Fleet Feet Sports. “Like many other small businesses we are struggling through this difficult time, but we are stronger together. We encourage everyone to keep moving. We’re all in this fight together, but we can stay strong and healthy by keep moving.”

For those who love the sport of running or just enjoy the outdoors by running, walking and exercising, the efforts to post your activity on the Run 256 page is helping others through this most difficult time. The crisis, which is so hard to imagine just weeks ago, is testing society on all levels. The strength and resilience of the entire Madison community is uplifting as it shows how a tough breed of athletes like runners and walkers are even during difficult circumstances.

Taylor encourages everyone to stay active as nothing is better for stress relief and self-care than the positive physical and mental advantages of activity. She added, “As we try to reduce interaction between people, we need to keep running, walking and exercising to stay healthy.”

Although social distancing is still warranted during this trying time, there are plenty of locales in the immediate area which can host your workout as an individual- Palmer Park, Rainbow Mountain Preserve and Mill Creek, Indian Creek and Bradford Creek Greenways. All are accessible without having to fret on being too close to others. Outside of Madison there is Point Mallard Park in Decatur, Ditto Landing in South Huntsville and Monte Sano State Park.

At home workouts are also beneficial and easy to conduct in your own space. Just a short array of exercises such as pull ups, push-ups, crunches, burpees, jump rope and other exercises are all easily attainable while at home in a “home-gym” type of atmosphere. Keep it simple.

Covid-19 is changing everyday life. Families are finding themselves in close quarters and the chances to conduct exercising time can be difficult. On inclement weather days/nights, try sitting down with a movie, particularly running movies- Chariots of Fire, The Barkley Marathons, Forrest Gump, Rocky, Where Dreams Go To Die and many others.

Run256 is great to post and/or see posts from others who have taken the time to share their daily exercise routines and become motivations for others. Now is a good time to shout out to friends in the community for posting free workout routines.

As for the new location in Madison for Fleet Feet Sports, Taylor said, “We have not been able to work on the Madison store due to the current situation, but we are hopeful this unusual situation will pass soon and we can get back to our plans.”

Taylor said since groups are not encouraged to gather at this time, she urges those to stay in touch, stay connected and keep moving. The hashtags of #keepmoving and #fleetfeethsv are perfect ways to remain in touch with others during your journey. Inspire others. Find daily workouts, motivation or inspiration to keep you going. Keep moving- one day at a time.