Copa America 2024 – What’s Happening and How to Keep Moving While You Watch

If you love football and staying active, the Copa America is the perfect excuse to do both. The tournament brings together South America’s best national squads, and the excitement lasts for weeks. Below we break down the key dates, the teams to watch, and quick ways to turn a lazy viewing session into a mini‑workout.

When and Who – The Core of Copa America 2024

The 2024 edition kicks off on June 12 and runs through July 7. Ten teams are competing: Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and the host nation, which varies each cycle (this year it’s the United States with matches in several cities). Group stages are followed by knockout rounds, with the final set for July 7 at MetLife Stadium.

Argentina and Brazil are the historic heavyweights, but surprise packages like Paraguay and Ecuador have already taken points off the giants in recent qualifiers. Keep an eye on Brazil’s attacking trio – Neymar, Gabriel Jesus, and Vinícius Jr – and Argentina’s midfield engine, Lionel Messi, who’s still scoring at a high clip.

Fit‑Fans: Turn Game Time into Mini‑Workouts

Most fans sit for long stretches, but a few simple moves can keep your heart rate up without missing any action. Here’s a quick routine you can do between halves or during commercial breaks:

• Jumping Jacks: 30 seconds to boost circulation.
• Squat Pulses: 15 reps, hold the bottom for a few seconds.
• Wall Sit: Sit against a wall as long as the referee’s halftime whistle lasts (usually 15 minutes).
• Arm Circles: 20 forward and 20 backward to loosen shoulders – perfect for cheering on those long throw‑ins.

All you need is a small space and a willingness to move. The routine burns roughly 70–100 calories per hour, which adds up if you’re watching multiple matches.

Another fun idea is to match the intensity of the game. When your team scores, do a quick sprint in place for 10 seconds. If they concede, hold a plank until the next goal. It keeps the emotional roller‑coaster in sync with your body.

Hydration matters too. Replace sugary sodas with water or electrolyte drinks. A hydrated body recovers faster, so you can stay active throughout the tournament without feeling sluggish.

Lastly, don’t forget to stretch after the match. A simple 5‑minute routine – hamstring stretch, chest opener, calf raises – reduces muscle tightness and keeps you ready for the next game.

Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just tuning in for the highlights, Copa America 2024 offers plenty of chances to stay entertained and healthy. Mark the schedule, pick a few favorite teams, and use the downtime to move a little. You’ll enjoy the football more, feel better physically, and maybe even surprise yourself with how many calories you can burn while cheering on your nation.