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 also read about Tom Koch in our Top 10 Fittest TV Personalities in Houston list– he was fit long before the pandemic!
How are you staying physically active in the age of COVID-19? What are you eating?
Tom Koch: I’ve always been a runner although my knees have been telling me to run less the past two years. during the pandemic I’ve continued running my three miles a day, but I’ve also, like so many others, taken up biking everyday. i have a group of guys I ride 14-16 miles with every day after I’m done running. Since the gym closed, I’ve been doing pull-ups and pushups at home, plus practicing yoga with my wife.
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?
Tom Koch: A big challenge is sifting through all the confusing and often contradictory information about COVID 19. But we search and read a lot and do our best to present the most accurate information. And like everyone else, I have to deal with the stress that the pandemic has produced.
How has your job changed in the past few months?
Tom Koch: My job hasn’t changed much because I’ve continued going to work. What has changed is interacting and communicating with my co-workers who are working from home. They have the really tough job of getting up even earlier every morning and trying to research and write from what can be the chaos of home…all while staying quiet and trying not to wake up their families.
How are you managing your stress during this time?
Tom Koch: Running and biking and yoga…but I’m also a person who believes in gratitude and I thank God every day for the people around me and all he has given me.
A bit of positivity: have you seen an act of kindness or generosity during this difficult time that has moved you or inspired you?
Tom Koch: Too many to mention. They happen every day but the ones that really stand out are those done by children, often starting lemonade stands or selling their toys to help people who’ve lost their jobs. It gives you great faith in mankind.
How are you staying in touch with family and friends? Any tips for staying more connected?
Tom Koch: We’ve done a lot of FaceTime and Zoom calls. The only tip I have is to call someone and just tell them you’re thinking about them and miss them. it means the world.
What’s one good habit you have developed during this time that you want to keep?
Tom Koch: Baking bread. I now make some killer sourdough and Kalamata olive and feta cheese bread.
We all have some tough days, what keeps you positive and motivated as a public figure?
Tom Koch: The positive stories we report on every day and friends and neighbors whom I dearly love and admire for their positive attitudes.
What do you most look forward to doing again after restrictions are lifted?
Tom Koch: Going to a restaurant with friends and not worrying about anything except the quality of the wine and food. But most of all traveling! We love to travel and I have a long bucket list.
What was the most fun quarantine activity you’ve done?
Tom Koch: Spending time playing games and watching movies with my family. We take turns choosing the films.
What were the best and worst parts of working from home, especially when filming a newscast? How did you and other coworkers stay in touch?
Tom Koch: I didn’t have to work from home, but the iPhone and computers kept me in touch with everyone at Channel 13, and I can honestly say they are some of the smartest, hardest working, and most fun people I’ve had the pleasure of working with.
What are 3 tips you would give to all Americans during COVID-19?
Tom Koch:
1. Wear a mask…I know its controversial for some, but if it makes someone else feel more comfortable, then why not perform that small act of kindness. To me, it’s the American way.
2. Social distance. Let’s get through this thing together…about six feet apart.
3. Be kind and courteous and try to stay calm. This too shall pass.
