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    This Healthy Cauliflower Risotto Is A Winter Dream

    A classic, cosy way to cook rice, the risotto stands out not only as a filling and delicious dish but as a veritable winter warmer. And this healthy cauliflower risotto ticks all the boxes.

    This recipe, from Executive Chef Kerry Kilpin’s new offering at Steenberg Wine Farm’s Bistro Sixteen82 winter menu, nails it.

    The new winter menu at Bistro Sixteen82, curated by Kilpin, embodies the essence of winter comfort. Featuring an array of fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, the menu includes highlights such as umami-glazed Cape Bream and heart-warming desserts like Valrhona chocolate marquise, promising a sensory feast that celebrates the best of what the colder months have to offer.

    But if you can’t make it to the lush foothills of the Steenberg valley, Chef Kilpin has this healthy cauliflower risotto recipe to cosy you up.

    The key to a perfect risotto

    Use the right rice

    A short-to-medium grain rice does well and absorbs the liquid, making it velvety and rich. Another tip: don’t wash the rice beforehand – you want that extra starch to create a good, rich texture.

    Go slowly

    Per Jamie Oliver, cook your risotto slowly on low heat. Also add your broth in ladles: this gives the rice time to absorb each spoonful of broth, slowly plumping up that grain.

    Pay attention

    Like the perfect scrambled egg, you can’t leave a risotto unattended. Stir frequently to prevent the dish from sticking to the bottom of the pan and make sure the rice never dries out.

    Healthy Cauliflower, Corn & Bacon Risotto

    Executive Chef Kerry Kilpin

    This healthy cauliflower risotto is a winter dream and comes together in minutes.

    Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes mins

    Course Appetizer, Lunch, Main Course, StarterCuisine Healthy, Italian

    1 onion, chopped100 g butter2 cloves garlic, chopped200 g risotto rice200 ml Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc, or dry white wine15 ml smoked paprika1 cup frozen corn250 g streaky bacon, chopped½ head cauliflower  blended roughly to make “cauliflower rice” 2 cup chicken stock2 sprigs rosemary, chopped125 g parmesan, grated20 g parsely
    Sweat your onions and garlic with 50g butter in a pot for about 2 minutes. Add your rice, cook for a further minute until the rice starts to go translucent on the outside. Add the wine and allow the wine to cook off and the rice to absorb all the liquid. Add the paprika, bacon and enough stock to cover the rice. Cook on a medium heat. After a further 2 minutes, add the cauliflower, corn and rosemary and top with stock. Throughout the cooking process you will add stock and stir from time to time. Keep your risotto moist at all times. If you run out of stock and your rice isn’t cooked, top up using water. Once your rice is about 2 minutes off from being cooked, add the parmesan, butter and parsley and allow to melt. Season to taste and enjoy with a glass of Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc.

    Keyword bacon, comfort food, Easy Meals, risotto

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    How Many Carbs Should I Eat If I’m Trying To Lose Weight?

    If you’re trying to lose weight, you may have heard the recommendation to cut back on carbs. You may even be wondering how many carbs a day you should eat to lose weight—which, TBH, can be a pretty tricky number to figure out.

    Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to cut carbs altogether to lose weight. Your body needs carbs for energy and in some cases, they may even support your weight loss goals. “Carbohydrate-rich foods can be your ally when it comes to weight loss and management,” says dietician Charlotte Martin. The myth that carbs can make you gain weight isn’t entirely true and eating carbs won’t prevent you from losing fat if you want to, either, she says.

    Instead, swapping out simple carbs (white bread and flour products like baked goods, cereal and pasta) for more complex carbs like beans, sweet potatoes and whole grains, can help. Complex carbs help you control satiety, hunger and overall calorie intake, and therefore your weight as a byproduct—no carb or calorie counting necessary, says Martin.

    Here’s what you should know about consuming carbs during your weight loss journey and how many carbs a day are optimal for losing weight.

    Meet the experts: Christy Brissette, RD, is a Chicago-based dietician and owner of 80 Twenty Nutrition. Charlotte Martin, RDN, is a dietician and the owner of Shaped by Charlotte. Danielle Schaub, RD, is a dietician and the culinary and nutrition manager for Territory Foods. Crystal Scott, RDN, is a dietician at Top Nutrition Coaching.

    How many carbs should you eat in a day to lose weight?

    Remember: Cutting carbs completely isn’t necessary for weight loss—in fact, most people can lose weight without reducing carbs drastically, says dietician Christy Brissette. It’s recommended that you get between 45 to 65 percent of your daily calories from carbohydrates, Brissette says. “Dropping carbs below the 45 to 65 percent range isn’t recommended for most people because it makes getting all of your vitamins and minerals each day far more challenging,” she says.

    Since everyone needs a different number of calories every day, there is no universal number that will dictate whether or not you lose weight. However, to accelerate weight loss, your doctor or dietician may recommend that you practice a low-carb diet to see if it makes a difference. This means aiming for the lower end of the recommended daily carb range (45 percent).

    How To Calculate Your Carbohydrate Needs

    If you know how many calories you typically consume daily, you can do a little math to find your low-carb range using the 45 to 65 percentage rule. (For example, if you’re eating 1,800 calories per day, that equates to 810 to 1,170 calories from carbs or 203 to 293 grams of carbs per day.) To simplify, you can use the formula below:

    Carb Math: Your total daily calorie goal x .45 = the lower end of your carbohydrate calorie goal per day. To calculate that amount in grams, take that number and divide by four.

    However, remember that your daily carbohydrate needs will also depend on your activity level, age and body composition, among other factors. To that end, always consult your healthcare provider or registered dietician before trying a new eating plan so they can help you understand your unique needs.

    Healthy Carbohydrate Sources

    As a reminder, simple carbs are quickly and easily digested, while complex carbs take longer to digest, but translate into longer-lasting energy. Since complex carbohydrates take more time to break down in the body, they can help you feel fuller and more satisfied, making them a great option if you’re trying to lose weight. Healthy carb options include:

    Legumes like black beans, chickpeas, green peas and lentils

    Sprouted grain bread and whole-wheat bread

    Grains like barley, brown rice, farro, millet, multigrain hot cereal, quinoa, rolled oats, spelt and whole-wheat pasta

    Starchy vegetables like butternut squash, kamut, potatoes and sweet potatoes

    Non-starchy vegetables like cauliflower, celery, arugula, spinach and eggplant

    Fibre-rich fruits like apples, blueberries and raspberries

    Low-carb bread, granola and pasta

    READ MORE: 19 Complex Carbs You Should Def Incorporate Into Your Diet

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does a low-carb diet help you lose weight?

    On a very basic level, weight loss happens when the number of calories consumed is less than the number of calories burned (known as a calorie deficit). Eating a low-carb diet is one way to lose weight, but it’s not the only way, says Danielle Schaub. Instead of focusing on the amount of carbs you eat, try to focus on the type of carbs, she says. Replacing simple carbs (like refined grains and sugar) with complex ones, like carbs from veggies and legumes, can help you lose weight over time.

    If you decide to limit carbs, you might be more likely to get more of your daily calories from protein and fat instead, both of which are more filling than carbs. “You may eat fewer calories overall because you’re more satisfied by what you are eating,” says Schaub.

    Can you eat too few carbs?

    Experts say yes. Eating too few carbs (under 100 grams a day) could possibly impact your memory, energy level and mood, says Brissette. “Carbs are your brain’s preferred energy source, and they boost the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that lifts your mood and makes you feel happy,” Brissette says. “That’s why low-carb diets [may be] associated with a higher risk of depression.”

    Cutting back on carbs can also have some uncomfortable side effects. “Fibre is a carb and it’s important for nourishing your gut microbes,” says Crystal Scott, RDN, a dietician at Top Nutrition Coaching. “If you cut carbs, you also cut important sources of fibre and this can have a negative impact on your gut bacteria.”

    Rather than immediately opting for a low-carb diet to lose weight, try prioritising minimally-processed complex carbs, reducing portion sizes and increasing the amounts of non-starchy vegetables you’re eating first, says Brisette.

    READ MORE: 3 High-Protein, Low-Carb Breakfast Recipes You’ll Actually Love To Eat

    Who should follow a low-carb vs. high-carb diet?

    You may want to aim for a low-carb diet if you have diabetes or metabolic disorders that require you to keep your blood sugar stable, says Schaub. If you struggle to maintain a healthy weight or simply feel your metabolism slowing down with age, a low-carb diet (combined with higher protein and fat intake) may help you feel fuller and maintain muscle mass, she adds.

    On the other hand, you may want to opt for more carbs if you’re an athlete who wants to improve performance or an active person with high muscle mass, Schaub says. If you have kidney disease, a higher-carb diet may reduce the protein-filtering load on your kidneys, she says. Additionally, if you have digestive issues like constipation, reducing carbs and adding more fibre-rich foods (like whole grains, beans, fruits and veggies) may help.

    This article written by Stella Katsipoutis, Emily Shiffer and Ashley Martens first appeared on Women’s Health US. More

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    Consider This Yoga HIIT Workout A Total-Body Shred

    Yes, yoga HIIT exists! Like strength-training moves, it’s possible to up the ante and turn your yoga flow into a sweaty interval training session. How? By upping your pace. Yoga works particularly well for this, since each pose is meant to flow into the next, creating a pacey workout that gets your heart racing.

    Plus, every move is done without a single weight, so you’re able to use your own body weight to strengthen your muscles. But don’t be fooled: this challenging flow, while mostly bodyweight, can up your heart rate and doubles as a hybrid strength-cardio workout.

    How to do this yoga HIIT workout

    Personal Fitness Trainer Phia-Lee Rabie came up with this workout. Each move blends into a circuit that you can repeat four or five times, making up a complete total-body workout. You’ll engage your core and tone your arms and legs.

    To complete the yoga HIIT workout, do each of the five exercises for 40 seconds and take 20 seconds rest. Repeat for four or five rounds.

    Move 1

    Start in a down dog position and from there, move to plank, pulling the right knee to chest.

    Allow the right leg to move to a down dog split. From there, your right leg comes back to plank, knee to chest ending in down dog. Repeat the sequence on the left side, alternating for 40 seconds.

    READ MORE: Exactly How To Train For A Handstand Or Pull-Up, Per Experts

    Move 2

    Start in an upward-facing dog position. Jump or step to a resting squat position placing your hands on the floor.

    Jump or step to an upward-facing dog position and repeat for 40 seconds.

    Move 3

    From a down dog position, bend your knees and sit back onto your heels.

    With your right leg, step out into a low lunge keeping your left hand on the floor. With your right arm, reach up to the sky forming a straight line from one hand to the other and feel the nice stretch in your spine.

    Bring the right hand back to the ground. Step your leg back and return to the bent-knee downward-facing dog. Repeat everything on the left side, alternating for 40 seconds.

    READ MORE: This Scalable HIIT Workout Will Be Your New Go-To For All-Over Gains

    Move 4

    From a forward fold starting position, walk out on your hand to a plank.

    Lower your body to perform a push-up in a ripple-like manner with your hips first.

    Walk back to forward fold. Do one quick jump or step to plank and back.

    Keep repeating the flow for 40 seconds.

    Move 5

    Lie on your back with feet apart and arms overhead.

    Do a crunch or sit-up while lifting both legs, reaching your hands to toe-tap. Knees may bend, depending on your flexibility. Keep the rhythm for 40 seconds.

    For detailed demos of the moves, watch PT Phia-Lee do the moves here:

    [embedded content]

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    How To Get Fit At 40 – And Thriving Healthy Tips

    This is the prime of your life – yes, your 40s are it! It’s a time when staying active and taking care of your health becomes even more crucial. As your body goes through changes, it’s essential to understand how to adapt your fitness routines accordingly.

    Engaging in physical activity also supports cognitive function, keeping your mind sharp and focused as you navigate the challenges of work and family life. It can improve sleep quality, which becomes increasingly important as hormonal changes may disrupt your rest.

    By incorporating exercise into your routine, you’re investing in a healthier future self by promoting cardiovascular health and supporting bone density. Plus, staying active can enhance flexibility and balance to prevent injuries that may be more common as we age.

    “If you’re not engaging in regular aerobic and strength training by your forties, it’s possible there may be a shift towards insulin insensitivity,” says Dr Amal Hassan, a sports and exercise medicine consultant. Oestrogen optimises insulin levels (the hormone needed to move glucose out of your bloodstream and keep blood sugar levels regulated)

    Unilateral Training

    In your forties, unilateral (single-sided) moves should be front and centre of your strength training routine. “Exercises such as single-leg Romanian deadlifts and single-arm dumbbell rows, are great for improving balance and ironing out any muscular imbalances,” says McGowan. “By doing them, you test your balance and work oneside of your body at a time, which isolates and strengthens weak muscles.” It’s a game changer for injury prevention, too.

    Quick, Short Bursts of Activity

    Giving your metabolism a boost is the name of the game, here. “Regular activity is vital for reducing the risk of insulin insensitivity, which could lead to diabetes and weight gain, as exercise moves blood sugar into the muscles for storage and promotes an immediate increase in insulin sensitivity, rather than leaving excess insulinfloating in your body,” explains Dr Hassan. “Short walks after meals and reducing alcohol intake to within the guidelines (or lower) are powerful ways to improve your metabolism.” The thinking is that rather than aiming for longer 20-minute sessions, know that four five-minute bursts could also work wonders.

    Do More Balanced Moves

    Your balance may also begin to wobble a little. Research in Frontiers In Neurology found that the ‘vestibular threshold’ was more than 80% higher in participants over the age of 40.

    Get Fit In Your 40s: The 10 Minute Stretch

    Instructions: Complete the exercises in this yoga workout in order. Move from one to the next without resting. Rest 45 to 60 seconds at the end of the circuit, then repeat for up to three rounds

    READ MORE: The 14 Yoga Stretches To Do Daily If You Want To Become More Flexible

    1. Sukhasana To Half Moon

    Start in an easy seated pose (Sukhasana). Sit like this for a minute with your eyes closed and hands in your lap, breathing deeply. Raise your arms to the sky and then over to your right into half moon.

    Repeat on the left, then inhale, raising your arms up again and lengthening your spine. Exhale as you reach your hands in front of you.

    2. Cat And Cow

    Place your hands on the floor, then walk them forward and move onto all fours. Spend a few breaths performing cat and cow: inhale and arch your back, sticking your tailbone up.

    Exhale and round your back, tucking your tailbone. Continue alternating.

    READ MORE: Boost Your Morning Routine With This Easy 15-Minute Yoga Flow

    3. Downward-facing Dog To Standing Mountain

    From cat and cow, push up into downward-facing dog .

    Walk your hands back towards your feet, or your feet towards your hands, and exhale into forward fold, then roll up into a standing mountain pose.

    READ MORE: This 6-Move Yoga Sequence Will Seriously Strengthen Your Tummy

    Foods You Should Be Eating In Your 40s

    Proper nutrition plays a critical role in staying fit and healthy, especially as you hit your 40s. As your metabolism starts to slow down, it becomes even more important to fuel your body with the right nutrients. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can help maintain a healthy weight and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

    In your 40s increasing your protein intake from 15 percent of your total calories to 30 percent can help you boost the calories your body burns during digestion.

    Switch to low-GI foods rich in soluble fibre, which helps to lower bad cholesterol. These include: Green vegetables, some fruits, kidney beans, chickpeas and lentils.

    Hydration is another essential aspect of proper nutrition that often gets overlooked but is crucial for maintaining energy levels and supporting bodily functions.

    Habits To Avoid In Your 40s

    “I often see clients putting pressure on themselves when they notice that their bodies are changing due to hormones,” says McGowan.

    “Consistency is key but going all out isn’t necessary. I recommend two or three moderate to intense workouts per week, but the most important thing is to reduce sedentary behaviour – stand as often as you can and always walk to your destination if it’s an option.”

    Bragg agrees: “Your body is going through a huge hormonal shift – oestrogen and progesterone levels decrease as ovaries stop producing them, and the control hormones (FSH, follicle-stimulating hormone and LH, luteinising hormone) released by the pituitary gland in the brain shoot up. This all contributes to the most common menopausal symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain and hot flushes. Doing intense workouts will only send hormonal imbalance further off-kilter as they increase the stress hormone cortisol.” Try incorporating at least one yoga session per week.

    This article written by Bridie Wilkins first appeared in the July/August 2022 Issue of Women’s Health UK additional reporting by the Women’s Health SA team.

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    3 Hearty Winter Braai Recipes To Warm Your Weekend

    South Africans know that a braai isn’t just for summer—it’s a year-round custom. These hearty recipes are what we call comfort food goals! Picture this combination: a crackling fire, a glass of Pinotage, cosy knitwear and good company. Sounds like the perfect winter evening, right?

    Our friends at Le Creuset and Georgia East have teamed up to bring you three braai recipes that celebrate the best of winter flavours, featuring juicy citrus, rich squash, and aromatic alliums like garlic, spring onion and shallots.

    For best results, use a pizza oven, kettle braai, or Weber. However, all three recipes can be prepared in a conventional oven, too.

    Moreish Sticky Chicken

    This sticky braaied chicken, basted with sweet oranges, marmalade and fresh rosemary, is the perfect main course for a cosy night in.

    Image by Le Creuset

    Butterflied Chicken with Citrus & Rosemary Basting

    Georgia East

    Sweet oranges, marmalade and fresh rosemary make an addictive basting for this sticky braaied chicken. By butterflying the bird, it is easily and evenly cooked over the coals with the Le Creuset Alpine Skillet ensuring that no roasting liquids are lost. 

    Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr

    Course Main CourseCuisine South African

    Servings 4 servings

    1 kg whole free-range chicken, cleaned3 tbsp chunky orange marmalade 50ml2 large oranges zested and juiced25 ml Worcestershire sauce or dark soy sauce3 garlic cloves finely chopped3 sprigs fresh rosemary leaves finely chopped, plus extra sprigs for stuffingSea salt and black pepper1 large red onion unpeeled and quartered150 ml dry white wine or water
    Add the marmalade, orange zest and juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic and rosemary to a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced and sticky. Season with salt and pepper and set aside. Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to butterfly the chicken by removing the backbone and flattening the bird breast-side up. Clean and dry the chicken with paper towel and brush the citrus glaze all over the underside of the bird.Arrange the orange slices over the base of the Le Creuset Alpine Skillet and place the chicken skin-side up on top of the fruit, tucking a few rosemary sprigs underneath the chicken. Use the rest of the citrus mixture to baste the chicken thoroughly. Tuck the red onion and any extra rosemary around the chicken and pour in the white wine or water. Cover the skillet with foil and place into a preheated 220°C kettle braai or Weber, removing the foil after the first 25 minutes. The chicken will be done once the skin is a golden brown and the juices from the thigh run clear (poke the chicken with a knife to make sure). Leave the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before carving and serve with the red onion and spoonfuls of the roasting liquid from the skillet.

    *Cook’s tip: Use Le Creuset’s silicone basting brush to baste the chicken with its own roasting liquid while it cooks, for a deliciously sticky skin.

    Keyword braai, chicken

    Grilled Butternut Bliss

    What’s a braai without the perfect side dish? This one features a tangy balsamic glaze and fresh sage, transforming it into the ultimate veggie delight. Moreover, butternut and other squashes are rich in vitamin A and fibre—exactly what you should stock up on this winter.

    Image by Le Creuset

    Smoky Grilled Butternut with Balsamic Glaze, Sage & Seeds

    Georgia East

    Butternut and other squashes like pumpkin, gem and Hubbard are in season now and their tender taste pairs well with smoky flavours infused from fire. For this recipe, two big butternut squash are halved and roasted over the coals in the Le Creuset Alpine Grill Basket, brushed with a piquant balsamic glaze and stuffed with fresh sage. A scattering of toasted pumpkin, flax, sunflower and sesame seeds finish off this easy veggie dish.

    Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes mins

    Course Side DishCuisine Vegetarian

    Servings 4 servings

    2 large butternut squash halved lengthways50 ml balsamic vinegar reduction25 ml dry red wine or waterSea salt and black pepperOlive oilA handful of fresh sage30 ml mixed toasted seeds
    Pour the balsamic reduction and red wine into a small saucepan over medium heat and reduce until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Rub a little olive oil over the skin-side of the butternut and place into Le Creuset’s Alpine Grill Basket. Use a sharp knife to score the cut side of each butternut in a criss-cross pattern and brush with the balsamic glaze. Put the butternut into a preheated 220°C kettle braai or Weber and cook skin-side down for the first 20 minutes before basting the cut side with more glaze, placing some sage into each cavity and turning the butternut to roast flesh-side down for a further 10 to 20 minutes or until soft. To serve, baste once more with the balsamic reduction and scatter over the toasted seeds.

    *Cook’s tip: by roasting butternut in the skin, the vegetable takes on a buttery, nutty flavour. Once cooked, the skin of a butternut can be eaten and is more nutrient-dense than the flesh. This is also a tasty way to roast butternut for soups, sauces and pasta filling.

    Keyword braai, vegetarian

    Focaccia with Garlic, Spring Onion & Shallots

    Enjoy this focaccia as a starter or as a delightful side dish alongside the chicken and butternut recipes. Did we mention it’s a plate of pillowy, bubbly goodness?

    Image by Le Creuset

    Focaccia with Garlic, Spring Onion & Shallots

    Georgia East

    Not only great for pizza, Le Creuset’s Alpine Pizza Pan is perfect for flatbread or this easy focaccia. Cold fermentation is essential for a pillowy, bubbly bread and so the hardest part of this recipe is the waiting period! Get creative with different designs for the top of the focaccia – this recipe uses Autumnal alliums like spring onions, garlic and sweet shallots. 

    Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCold-ferment 2 days d

    Course Side DishCuisine South African

    Servings 4 servings

    1 kg stoneground white bread flour850 ml warm water1 sachet nstant yeast 7g10 g honey30 ml olive oil20 g fine sea saltAssorted alliums like garlic, spring onions, shallots and red onionAdditional olive oilFlaky sea salt
    Pour the water into a large mixing bowl and add in the yeast, honey, olive oil and salt. Mix to combine and pour in the flour. Mix well, scraping down the bowl, until the flour is thoroughly hydrated. Cover the bowl with a clean tea towel and leave for 15 minutes. Using wet hands, stretch and pull the dough, folding it in over itself. Cover for another 15 minutes before repeating the stretching process. I like to do this step three times to really build structure in the dough. After the final stretching process, turn the dough smooth-side up and rub with olive oil. Cover the bowl with clingwrap and refrigerate for 48 hours – 72 if you have the time.Drizzle a little olive oil over the base of the Le Creuset Alpine Pizza Pan and using oiled hands, carefully place the focaccia dough on top. Fold the dough into a burrito-like shape and flip so that it is smooth-side up. Cover the dough and leave to prove for a minimum of 2 hours. I usually prove for 4 hours. By now, the dough should have spread out over the pan but if not, gently assist it using oiled fingers. Oil the alliums and push them into the dough. Drizzle the focaccia with a little more olive oil and season generously with flaky salt.Bake the bread in a preheated 220°C kettle braai or Weber for 30 to 40 minutes. The focaccia is best sliced and eaten immediately.

    *Cook’s tip: be sure to oil the veggies and herbs before putting them into the focaccia dough as this will prevent them from blackening on the braai. Other produce like olives, radishes, tomatoes, beetroot, mushrooms, asparagus, figs, grapes, peppers and chillies can be used in place of alliums if desired.

    Keyword braai

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    How To Get Fit At 30 – And Important Healthy Habits

    How to get fit in your 30s is as simple as listening to your body’s cues. As you transition into your 30s, staying active becomes more crucial than ever. Not only does regular exercise help maintain a healthy weight and build strength, but it also plays a significant role in preventing age-related health issues. By incorporating physical activity into your daily routines, you can boost your metabolism, improve heart health and increase overall energy levels.

    Globally, the average age at which women become first-time mothers is 30+, even though it ranges between 20 and 29 in South Africa. “Only 3 to 15 percent of pregnant women meet the suggested physical activity guidelines, which decreases further postnatally,” says Dr Amal Hassan, a sports and exercise medicine consultant.

    When it comes to getting fit in your 30s, finding the right workout routine is key. With a plethora of options available, it’s essential to choose a plan that suits both your body and goals. Consider factors like your current fitness level, any injuries or health concerns and what you enjoy doing.

    HIIT The Workouts Hard

    “As oestrogen levels drop and bone density reduces, strength training helps keep bones strong, as the stress that comes from tugging and pushing on bones nudges bone-forming cells into action,” explains personal trainer Caroline Bragg.

    Incorporate high-intensity aerobic efforts to keep your heart and lungs functioning at optimum capacity, too, as the risk of cardiovascular disease increases with age as blood vessels stiffen, and exercise, which pushes blood around the body, keeps vessels nice and flexible. Try fitting in two strength training sessions with one high-intensity 30-minute cardio session, such as a spinning class or a run, per week.

    Do Some Breathwork

    Stress spans every decade, but if you’re juggling more responsibility than ever in your thirties, it might be timefor some new management techniques. “Focused breathwork can curb stress by increasing your oxygen intake, which in turn reduces blood pressure, slows your heart and releases tension in your body,” says Dr Hassan.

    There are plenty of free guided breathwork sessions on YouTube, while Breathwrk, Calm and Headspace all have their own. Start with one 10-minute session per week and see how you go.

    Just Move It

    NEAT, otherwise known as non-exercise activity thermogenesis, is basically the energy used for everything that’s not formal exercise – the stuff you do without realising it, such as walking around, hauling the washing up the stairs or using a standing desk.

    A study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that two hours of sitting could cancel out the benefits of a 20-minute workout, so the goal with NEAT is to reduce sedentary time – less about going hard in the gym and more about simply getting yourself moving. Set yourself a realistic daily step count to keep track.

    Get Fit In Your 30s: The 15 Minute Bodyweight Home Workout

    Instructions: Complete the exercises in this bodyweight home workout in order. Move from one to the next without resting. Rest 45 to 60 seconds at the end of the circuit, then repeat for up to five rounds.

    Make it harder: Feeling extra fired up for your bodyweight home workout? Increase the cardio challenge by adding 30 seconds of star jumps or running in place between each move. Get the best out of your chill with this couch workout.

    READ MORE: A 4-Week Home Workout Plan To Get Fit And Strong AF

    1. Bulgarian Split Squat

    Stand about 60 centimetres in front of your couch and extend your left leg behind you, placing the top of your foot on the seat (A). Keeping your chest upright and core tight, bend both knees to lower your hips as much as you can (B). Push through your right heel to return to start. That’s one rep. Do eight to 12, then repeat on the other side.

    READ MORE: Try This 30-Minute HIIT Workout At Home For A Total-Body Burn

    2. Travelling Plank With Leg Raise

    Get into push-up position with your toes on the couch (A). Raise your right arm and rotate your torso to the right until your feet are stacked and your body forms a T. Without dropping your hips, lift your right leg (B). Hold for 20 seconds. Reverse the movement to return to start and hold for 20 seconds, then repeat on the other side.

    READ MORE: 9 Bodyweight Exercises That Will Improve Your Mobility

    3. Single-Leg Hip Thrust

    Lie on your back on the floor in front of your couch with your left heel on the edge, knee bent about 90 degrees and your right leg straight up, arms at your sides (A). Press through your left heel and raise your hips as high as possible, keeping your right foot in the air (B). Slowly lower your hips back down. That’s one rep. Do eight to 12, then repeat on the other side.

    READ MORE: 10 Best Kettlebell Core Exercises For Strong, Sculpted Abs, From A Trainer

    4. Reverse Inch Worm

    Get into push-up position with your toes on the couch (A). Bracing your core and glutes, slowly walk your hands towards the couch, lifting your hips into the air and keeping your legs as straight as possible (B). Pause, then walk your hands back out to start. Make it harder by adding a push-up here. That’s one rep. Do four to eight.

    Excerpted from the Women’s Health Little Book of 15-Minute Workouts.

    READ MORE: 4 Easy Exercises You Can’t Ignore If You’re Walking For Weight Loss

    Foods You Should Be Eating In Your 30s

    When it comes to maintaining a healthy and fit lifestyle in your 30s, nutrition plays a crucial role. It’s essential to fuel your body with the right foods that provide energy and support for your workouts.

    It’s recommended that women ages 31-50 consume 25 g of fibre per day. Examples include: oats, legumes, seeds, nuts, breads, cereals and pasta.

    Women should include omega-3s to help with inflammation and reducing heart disease risk. This fatty fish, algae, flaxseeds, chia seeds and some nuts.

    Your 30s are the time to focus on preserving bone density to prevent loss—and getting enough calcium is the best way to do so.

    Aim for a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats.

    Habits To Avoid In Your 30s

    Finally found an exercise routine you genuinely enjoy? The last thing you’re going to want to do is change it, but that could be where you’re going wrong. The loss of muscle mass and bone density that marks this decade is your cue to stop going hell-for-leather in HIIT classes, or at least not so often. “If you regularly put your body through intense workouts in your twenties and are still keen to get your HIIT fix, once a week is enough. A reduction in oestrogen also means that recovery will come slower, as muscle regeneration relies on stem cells called satellite cells, which need oestrogen to function optimally,” says personal trainer Samantha McGowan.

    This article written by Bridie Wilkins first appeared in the July/August 2022 Issue of Women’s Health UK, additional reporting by Women’s Health SA team.

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    How To Reclaim Your Fitness Routine

    We’re halfway through the year and the fitness resolutions that you set at the beginning of the year now seem like a far-fetched idea. According to Enterprise Apps Today, only 9% of people are successful in keeping with their New Year’s resolutions. Most people quit by the second Friday of the month. Therefore, you’re not alone. Don’t berate yourself too much and in the words of the late Aaliyah, “If it at first you don’t succeed, then dust yourself off and try again!”

    “As a fitness instructor, I’ve witnessed first-hand the enthusiasm that comes with setting New Year’s especially when it comes to health and fitness. Yet, by February a lot of people’s new year’s resolutions start fading, and by the time June rolls around, many of us have fallen into old habits,” says Colleen Petersen, owner of CrossFit AniWaya in Ruimsig, Johannesburg, who has cultivated a thriving community around health and wellness over the years.

    READ MORE: How To Get Fit In Your 20s – This Is Your Healthy Routine

    Whether it’s discipline, a lack of motivation. or time constraints, Petersen suggests these five steps below to beat any excuse that’s holding you back from working out:

    1. Not Enough Time

    “I don’t have time to exercise, I wear many hats.” But the truth is, we make time for the things we value. If exercise is an important aspect of your life, you will find the time for it. Whenever I hear someone say they don’t have enough time, I always recommend challenging that notion. I recommend a “reality check”, which is simply starting a day plan, where you list all your day’s activities and the amount of time you spend on each activity – from the time you wake up to when you go to bed.

    When you put pen to paper and break it down, it’s a big eye opener to where we’re spending our time. When you have this information in front of you, you can find places where you can carve out time for activities that nourish your soul, like fitness. It’s about prioritising and recognising that investing in your health is worth the time.

    READ MORE: Get A Full-Body Workout In Just 15 Minutes With Only 2 Household Items

    2. Too Exhausted

    I’ve heard this line more times than I can recall. Many people find that fitness ends up being the last item on the to-do list, meaning that it frequently gets bumped off the list because, by the end of the day, we’re just too tired.

    So, finding the right time to prioritise exercise is crucial – whether it’s waking up 30 minutes earlier or squeezing in a short workout between meetings. It also doesn’t need to be at a gym, it could be a quick workout video online. Making fitness a non-negotiable part of your day can lead to improved energy levels and overall well-being.

    3. No Motivation Whatsoever

    Sometimes, the hardest part is getting started. As human beings, our innate nature is to be social beings, which is why sometimes exercising by yourself can get monotonous. This is where finding a supportive community can make all the difference – whether it’s joining a running club or finding a workout buddy who will keep you accountable.

    Another tactic to get out of your own way is through the 5-second rule. Author Mel Robbins describes this rule as ‘The moment you have an instinct to act on a goal you must 5-4-3-2-1 and physically move or your brain will stop you. There’s one thing that is guaranteed to increase your feelings of control over your life: a bias toward action.’ 

    So, if today is the day you have determined that you want to reclaim your fitness, the minute you think about it, you must physically do one small action, even if that means researching what you are going to do next.

    4. Fear Of Looking Silly

    Depending on your fitness journey, it is easy to fall prey to your own mind where you feel like you will look silly exercising, especially in a gym or training environment. The fear of judgement can be paralysing, but it’s essential to remember that everyone starts somewhere. There is also a physiological way to “get out of our own heads.” When we are excited or scared, our bodies release a hormone called cortisol. It’s released in the same way, but the difference is what our brains do with the information. It’s important to realign our thinking and give our brain the correct information by being determined to turn fear into excitement. By reframing fear as excitement and creating positive pathways in our brains, we can overcome self-doubt and take the next step towards growth.

    READ MORE: Scalable HIIT Workout Will Be Your New Go-To For All-Over Gains

    5. Budgeting

    Many people view fitness as a luxury rather than a necessity. We need to start changing the narrative and categorise fitness as a top priority, because investing in our health is one of the most valuable investments we can make. It doesn’t have to break the bank either; there are so many cost-effective training activities that you can participate in, and one of the great things about our information-age is that we have knowledge right at our fingertips so access to information, training programmes or motivation is easily available.

    One way to start is by finding someone who has a fitness platform online, follow them, and start doing their home-workouts. When you are ready, investigate what fitness options suit your needs and find an environment that matches that, within your budget.

    In essence, we need to change the narrative of how we view fitness; it’s about overcoming mental barriers and finding balance in our busy lives. By addressing common obstacles and implementing practical strategies, we can reignite our motivation and get back on track towards a healthier, happier lifestyle. Fitness can be as simple as spending 20 minutes playing ball with your children or taking a brisk walk in the park. Remember, every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goals. So, let’s lace up our sneakers, embrace the journey, and reclaim our fitness one day at a time. More

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    How To Get Fit In Your 20s – This Is Your Healthy Routine

    How to get fit in your 20s? Easy. This is the decade in which you’re most likely to be in your peak physical condition; your reaction times are at their fastest, you can build muscle quicker and recover from tough sessions faster. You’re also developing your musculoskeletal strength. “Because bone density peaks in your twenties to early thirties, undertaking weight-bearing activity [where your bones are supporting your weight] like running, soccer or netball, in combination with a strength programme, can maximise your bone health for life,” says Dr Rebecca Robinson, consultant physician in sport and exercise medicine.

    Embracing an active lifestyle now will not only benefit you in the present but will also pave the way for a healthier future. Let’s dive into how you can kickstart your fitness journey in your 20s and make lasting changes that will impact both your body and mind positively.

    Strength Is Key

    The workout you want to do is the one you should do (it’s the one you’ll keep up), but there’s resounding encouragement around strength training. “It’s great for increasing muscle mass and boosting metabolism and confidence,” says personal trainer Samantha McGowan.

    The latter is particularly important in your twenties: several studies have shown that women’s confidence increases with age, while others show that strength training can seriously bolster self-esteem, as lifting heavier and achieving goals gives you a sense of achievement. Dr Hassan concurs. “Finding a balance of basic activity forms (cardio and strength) is key, but your weekly schedule should include at least one strength training session. The type is up to you – body weight, free weights or weight machines all reap the same rewards. I’d advise a combination.”

    Understand Your Body

    Track your menstrual cycle and practise pelvic floor exercises. Contract for three seconds, then relax and repeat. Do eight to 10 daily. Around 21 percent of women in South Africa suffer from a form of incontinence, but strengthening the pelvic area can be game-changing. “Monitor your workout performance during your monthly cycle and see if there are any patterns,” advises Dr Hassan. The four phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulatory and luteal affect hormones, energy levels, strength and endurance. For example, the rise in oestrogen levels post-menstruation means you may have more energy.

    Make Time For Rest

    While this is a great time to fall in love with exercise, over-exercising is common among women of this agegroup. For many of the 20-something patients Dr Nicky Keay, an exercise endocrinologist, sees for amenorrhoea (loss of periods), it can be directly attributed to relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S, pronounced ‘reds’). “It’s a disparity between food intake (the energy and micronutrients you’re consuming) and the nutrition required to cover the energy demands of exercise and the basic ‘housekeeping’ tasks in the body,” she explains. If you’re concerned that your workouts are taking their toll, Dr Keay suggests ditching high-intensity exercise and building in some slow strength and conditioning sessions, too.

    Get Fit In Your 20s: How To Do This Bodyweight Mobility Workout

    Each exercise done for 45 seconds with a 15-second rest. Repeat the circuit 3 times for a sweaty bodyweight HIIT session. If you have any injuries, please check with your medical practitioner to see if it safe for you to do the following bodyweight exercises. Remember to have fun!

    1. Rolling cobra

    Start in a hovering child’s pose and extend your legs up to a down dog (A) Shift your weight forward, round your back as you move through a plank, and then a hanging cobra-style position (B). Continue for 45 seconds.

    READ MORE: Your 4-Week Home Workout Plan To Get Fit And Strong AF

    2. Beast reach to high plank

    From hovering child’s pose spring your knees forward to a high plank. Reach and repeat for 45 seconds (A).

    3. Beast reach, high plank, runners lunge

    Move from hovering child’s pose to high plank and then step your foot on the outside of the same side hand for runners lunge (A). Reach back to hovering child’s pose (B). Repeat alternating sides for 45 seconds.

    READ MORE: The Best Back Stretches To Tackle Upper And Lower Back Pain, From A Yoga Instructor

    4. Beast reach, high plank, runner lunge to sit through

    Once in runner lunge, lift your back foot up through the middle of the body (A). Lift the opposite hand off the floor too, balancing on one hand and foot (B). Come back to your starting position and repeat for 45 seconds.

    Foods You Should Be Eating In Your 20s

    Remember, balance is key! Allow yourself occasional treats but aim for consistency with nourishing foods that support your fitness journey. Your body will thank you for it!

    Go for food high in fibre like beans, fruits, veggies and whole grains. High-fibre foods digest more slowly and are also more filling, which means they’re a good option for weight control.

    Calcium plays a role in heart health, muscle function and nerve signalling. Many seeds are good sources of calcium. Cheese, yoghurt and sardines are also great sources of calcium.

    Eat the rainbow. Aim for five servings of vegetables a day (1 serving = ½ cup cooked or 1 cup salad) and try to have a bigger variety of veggies each week.

    Habits To Avoid In Your 20s

    Overtraining. The idea that you’re near-invincible during your twenties is only natural – you’ve got energy for days and can sail through any sweat session with a hangover like it’s nothing, but the ‘too much of a good thing’ adage may apply. Over-exercising is something personal trainer Caroline Bragg sees in plenty of her clients in their twenties. “Overtraining can lead to RED-S [relative energy deficiency syndrome], when the body isn’t taking on enough energy to meet demand,” she says. “This can lead to your body fat dropping so low that you stop producing oestrogen, which in turn can nix your periods (amenorrhea). Later on, this lack of oestrogen can cause loss of libido, trouble sleeping and difficulty concentrating.”

    This article written by Kirsti Buick first appeared in the July/August 2022 Issue of Women’s Health UK, additional reporting by Women’s Health SA team. More