We’ve all had to make adjustments this year with COVID-19 gripping almost every area of our lives. Celebrities and public figures are no different- which is why we asked them how they’ve adapted, what’s inspired them during this difficult time, and how they make time for themselves.
HFR founder Samir Becic adds “It is immensely important that Texans stay physically fit during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
We hope that these positive tips and routines will make our readers feel less alone during these trying times and maybe even find some inspiration in adopting some of these COVID-19 healthy daily habits! You can even read Matthew Seedorff’s pre-COVID fitness interview here.
How are you staying physically active in the age of COVID-19? What are you eating?
Matthew Seedorff: I’ve continued training! Originally, I had been expecting to compete in IRONMAN Texas in the Woodlands last April. Like many things, it was postponed until the fall. At first, I was bummed and slowed down my routine quite a bit. I think we all did. Then, IRONMAN starting doing virtual races every weekend. It was just the little bit of extra motivation I needed to start cranking out miles again. I’ve continued logging long miles on the bike, running trail, and in the pool. I’ve got my eyes set on the postponed IM Texas now scheduled for Waco.
As for food, I try to eat relatively healthy. I cook most meals and try to meal prep my work week with leftovers. Truth is though, most triathletes can get away with eating more calories. The amount of calories someone can burn while training for an IM race is insane, and allows me to eat almost anything. As a general rule, I avoid fast-food and stuff that’s fried, but anything else is fair game. I’ve been known to slug down a large amount of Blue Bell Ice Cream.
Being the voice of information and news during a pandemic creates new and unforeseen obstacles- what are some of the challenges that you’ve successfully adapted to/overcome?
Matthew Seedorff: We’ve all had to adapt and adjust our routine since March. Our way of life has changed. We have to wear masks at the gym and go through temperature checks.
It was easy to make excuses at the beginning of the pandemic to not work out, to not go for that run. But, as time went on, you realize this is just the way it is now. Once I accepted that it was much easier for me to stop making excuses and exercise.
How has your job changed in the past few months?
Matthew Seedorff: My job has changed quite a bit in terms of how we go about our day. I’m very thankful to work at FOX, they’ve always made the health and safety of their employees a top priority. We’ve been socially distant for months now. Instead of in-person meetings for work, we have Zoom calls. We also take a health questionnaire and do temperature checks every day. It’s cool to see us all working together to stay as safe and healthy as possible.
How are you managing your stress during this time?
Matthew Seedorff: I’ve been managing my stress by exercising and getting outside. It’s amazing what the sun can do towards helping my mentality. A quiet beach day, a run, music, and a book is always a good recipe to de-stress. I also try to mix-up my routine. I’ve been exploring new places to run, new swimming pools to swim, and new parks. By mixing up my routine, this monotonous pandemic period has felt less stagnant.
A bit of positivity: have you seen an act of kindness or generosity during this difficult time that has moved you or inspired you?
Matthew Seedorff: Seeing Houston come together during this time is something I’ll never forget. I’ve met so many volunteers at food drives and mask distributions, sacrificing their own time in the relentless Texas heat. It’s been remarkable to see. One gentleman, in particular, comes to mind. He had lost his oil-field job and was volunteering at a recent food drive. You could tell how hurt his family was financially, he couldn’t hide his emotions. While he had food donations sitting in his car, he also felt driven to give back to the 5,000 + other people in line that needed help. He stood on the hot blacktop for hours putting food in other people’s cars. To me, that gentleman represents Texas and I love it.
Also, special shout out to all of the doctors and nurses I’ve met throughout the last few months for news reports. The work they’re doing is incredible. Many of them have worked 140+ days straight, and haven’t seen their families for months. Unbelievable. Thank you medical workers and everyone on the frontline.
How are you staying in touch with family and friends? Any tips for staying more connected?
Matthew Seedorff: I’ve been FaceTiming and calling my family and friends much more since March. I think the use of Zoom has been a game-changer too. I had never heard of Zoom prior to March, but now I use it every day. Like many others, I’ve celebrated family birthdays and other special moments over Zoom. It’s not nearly as good as in-person obviously, but I do think it could allow for future opportunities for us to continue to stay together post-pandemic. For events we might have missed for whatever reason, maybe Zoom will be a backup plan moving forward to at least witness those moments online.
We all have some tough days, what keeps you positive and motivated as a public figure?
Matthew Seedorff: Tough days are a challenge that everyone experiences. There’s no avoiding it. Sometimes it can be tough to find motivation, and if that’s the case, make-up a reason to get motivated if you have to. I pull from previous life experiences, people who told me I couldn’t do something, to push forward that much harder. Sometimes the motivation you make for yourself is the strongest. Also, I’m blessed to have a family that supports me and picks me up on the bad days. If I ever lack motivation, my family and friends are my support system that keeps me locked-in on the next goal.
What do you most look forward to doing again after restrictions are lifted?
Matthew Seedorff: I look forward to hugging my parents, going to MLB games, having dinner with friends, races, and traveling. It’s been too long.
What was the most fun quarantine activity you’ve done?
Matthew Seedorff: I went on a camping trip that was much needed. Nothing says socially distant more than camping in the mountains. It was a much-needed break and an enjoyable experience to be outside without cell reception.
What were the best and worst parts of working from home, especially when filming a newscast?
Matthew Seedorff: I’d say the best part of working from home is avoiding traffic. I think I can work much more efficiently without having to sit in traffic and going to the office. The worst part though is not getting to see my coworkers. I moved to Houston from San Antonio only 2 months before the pandemic. It’s been tough getting to know people personally, just because everything is over Zoom. We do our best though and share lots of laughter over Zoom. It’s a fun team to be a part of!
What are 3 tips you would give to all Americans during COVID-19?
Matthew Seedorff:
1. Get outside and safely enjoy the fresh air!
2. Unplug. Turn your phone off sometimes and be in the moment.
3. Stay connected. Your family and friends are your base. Keep them close and they’ll lift you up.
