The role of a woman at home is often more of a caregiver for the rest of the family. The responsibility of many women may have increased manifold as people are stuck at home because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
It has become increasingly important for women to be active, fit and healthy in order to be able to take care of their loved ones at home. They need more physical activity and exercises to keep them mentally strong.
Xiomara Henriquez is woman carrying a diverse set of qualifications. She has a university degree in biology with minor in chemistry. She also has certified qualification in emergency medical services and clinical lab sciences. “I have always been enthusiastic about health, sports, and fitness. As a young girl, I played volleyball and basketball; and at university I began taking courses on strength training. I am a certified WBFF (World Beauty Fitness Fashion) fitness professional competitor; and have competed in shows within the USA, Canada, and UK. In 2016, I was ranked among the top 10 at WBFF Worlds and WBFF European Championship competitions in the category of ‘Fitness Diva-Masters’. I am featured in online fitness training videos for Udaya (packages available at https://udaya.com/fitness/ under the “General Fitness and Barre” category).”
Xiomara carries practical experience as a certified personal trainer, pre and post-natal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, functional exercise trainer, and corrective exercise trainer. “Additionally I have eight years of experience in aerial fitness. I help clients improve their activities of daily living. Since moving to Qatar four years ago, I’ve been instructing aerial fitness and functional strengthening classes for Yama Yoga Studios, training clients for a reputed hotel in Doha, and offering private training to clients in their residential gym.”
The fitness trainer has also resorted to online sessions due to the stay-at-home norm. “As many of us are spending more time at home, I offer one-to-one consulting and training sessions online. These sessions include, but not limited to, me guiding clients through their workout, teaching proper exercise form and techniques, discussing nutrition, and demonstrating how to increase mobility/flexibility through stretching. I believe it is important that a health and fitness programme include exercises that enhance stability, mobility, and strength at the same time. With guidance, clients develop the skills to take ownership of their health and be a leader in advocating for their well-being. All programmes are customised to fit each person’s goals, lifestyle, schedule, and equipment availability.”
In general around the world, women tend to stay at home most of the time. Since the novel coronavirus outbreak event, the working women are also confined to home. The female fitness trainer believes it is necessary for women folk to be physical active to have mental strength and better immunity. “I would like to take a moment to speak to women who find themselves at home more during this pandemic. For our mental and physical well-being, it is important to stay active. Incorporating physical activity can benefit you in the following ways:
1. Boost your immune system.
2. Reduce fat.
3. Increase your metabolism to help burn calories.
4. Reduce stress and anxiety.
5. Increase your energy levels.
6. Help you get quality sleep.
7. Reduce daily body aches and tension.
8. Help improve mental clarity.
9. Help create a support system to achieve your goals.
10. Set a positive example for your family and friends to become active.
“As women, we are often the caregivers of the household. If we don’t take time to love and care for ourselves, it becomes difficult to do so for others. Working out at home gives you the opportunity to be active with your family. It’s another way to bond and spend time together.”
FITNESS: Xiomara believes that for our mental and physical well-being, it is important to stay active.
