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    9 Bodyweight Exercises That Will Improve Your Mobility

    Bodyweight training serves as your foundation and is the driver of all of your other strengths and skills. And the ability to move and control your bodyweight is very important for daily life. In fact, even if you don’t realise it, you are performing variations of bodyweight exercises every day.

    That’s why we turned to a pro to help create a wuick workout you can do any time, any place. Co-owner of Pride Fighting Academy, Jess Mouneimne takes us through nine bodyweight exercises that will improve your mobility.

    Meet The Expert: Jess Mouneimne is a pro fighter and the co-owner of Pride Fighting Academy.

    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.

    5. Crocodile push-ups

    Starting in a standard push up position (A). Bend your elbows as you bend one knee and bring the leg to your elbow (B). Repeat both sides for 45 seconds.

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

    6. Broad jump and back crawl

    Start standing, bend your knees, and jump as far forward as you can. Come down to a tabletop with knees off the mat and shuffle backward in this position (A). Repeat 45 seconds.

    7. Shoulder taps to yoga squat

    Starting in a tabletop with knees off the mat (A). Tap each shoulder four times and then jump forward landing in a yoga squat (B). Jump back and repeat for 45 seconds.

    8. Hip ups

    Start lying on your back, legs off the floor, in line with your hips (A) Draw your knees into your chest and send your hips up high as you stack your legs over your hips (B). Repeat 45 seconds.

    9. 2 Point arm extensions

    Starting in tabletop with knees off that mat (A)  Extend opposite arm and opposite leg out (B). Draw the arm and leg while allows the elbow and knee to touch (C). Repeat both sides for 45 seconds.

    READ MORE: The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

    Watch The Workout Video Below And Follow Along:

    [embedded content] More

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    Quick Air Fryer Delights

    Busy times call for ‘quick’, ‘healthy’ and ‘convenient’ to be the only operative words in the kitchen. And this is why we’re clinging on to these air fryer recipes from Lelia Castello’s Super Easy Air Fryer Recipes: 69 Simple, Quick and Delicious Meals for dear sanity.

    Super Easy Air Fryer Recipes: 69 Simple, Quick and Delicious Meals by Lelia Castello

    From quick midweek dinners to weekend delights, each dish boasts minimum effort and a few simple ingredients. Featuring appetisers, mains, one-pot wonders and desserts, this air fryer cookbook ensures flavour-packed meals with every turn of the page.

    5 Quick And Easy Air Fryer Recipes

    Pink Peppercorn-Crusted Tuna with Artichoke and Pine Nut Caponata

    Chef Monché Muller

    From Harvest Table: A Culinary Journey Through the Wine Regions of France, Italy, Spain and South Africa

    Prep Time 30 minutes mins

    Course Lunch, Main Course

    Servings 4 servings

    1 Braai Stand1 Griddle Pan
    For the tuna4 Tbsp Pink peppercorns, crushed 1 Tbsp Pink Himalayan salt1 Lemon, zested1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil800g Fresh tuna loinMarjoram, deep-fried to garnishFor the caponata200g Pine nuts2 tsp Sweet paprika2 tsp Cumin seeds½ tsp Turmeric375ml Extra virgin olive oil100g Capers, drained165ml Fresh lemon juice2 Tbsp Marjoram, chopped800g Artichoke hearts, halved
    To make the tuna, combine the crushed peppercorns, salt, lemon zest and olive oil. Cover the tuna loin with the pepper crust on all sides.Sear the tuna over very hot coals on all sides, leaving the inside raw. Also grill the artichoke hearts (for the caponata) for a few minutes, until charred.Cool the tuna on a chopping board for about 10 minutes, then cut into 1 cm-thick slices.To make the caponata, toast the pine nuts in a dry saucepan over medium-high heat until golden. Add the spices and toast until fragrant.Add the olive oil and bring to a low simmer. Add the capers and fry until crispy.Remove from the heat, stir through the marjoram and lemon juice, then pour the hot liquid over the chargrilled artichokes. Allow to cool.Serve the caponata as a relish with the seared tuna slices, and garnish with deep-fried marjoram.

    NB: Not in the mood to braai? Similar results can be achieved by searing the tuna in a hot griddle pan.

    Keyword Easy Meals, fish

    READ MORE: Try These Fluffy Air Fryer Doughnuts Next Time You Want A Sweet Treat

    Courgette And Feta Frittata

    Lelia Castello

    From Super Easy Air Fryer Recipes: 69 Simple, Quick and Delicious Meals by Lelia Castello

    Prep Time 30 minutes mins

    Course Breakfast

    Servings 4 servings

    1 air-fryer
    6 Eggs2 Zucchinis80g Feta crumbled3 tbsp Milk12 Sprigs flat-leaf parsley, chopped chopped1 Onion chopped
    Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.Chop the courgettes into cubes (cutting some into five or six thin slices for the top of the frittata). Brown the cubed courgette with the onion in the air fryer for 5 minutes.Mix the eggs, feta, milk and half the parsley in a bowl.Add the mixture to a flan dish or shallow cake tin with the vegetables. Cook in the air fryer for a further 15 minutes.Garnish the frittata with the remaining parsley before serving.

    Keyword air fryer

    Indian-Style Meatballs

    Lelia Castello

    From Super Easy Air Fryer Recipes: 69 Simple, Quick and Delicious Meals by Lelia Castello

    Prep Time 18 minutes mins

    Course Main CourseCuisine Indian

    Servings 4 servings

    1 air-fryer
    300g Shoulder of lamb2 tsp Tandoori spice mix1 Egg200g Tomato sauce or passata1 Red onion1 Bunch coriander
    Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.Blitz the lamb, red onion and half the coriander in a food processor.Beat the egg in a large bowl and add the lamb mixture and tandoori spice. Mix well.Roll the mixture into meatballs, 4 cm in diameter, and cook in the air fryer for 4 minutes. Turn the meatballs over, pour over the tomato sauce and cook for a further 4 minutes. Serve garnished with the remaining coriander.

    Keyword air fryer

    Petit Pois And Basil Risotto

    Lelia Castello

    From Super Easy Air Fryer Recipes: 69 Simple, Quick and Delicious Meals by Lelia Castello

    Prep Time 20 minutes mins

    Course Main Course

    Servings 4 serving

    1 air-fryer
    300g Risotto rice1 litre Vegetable stock 50g Grated Parmesan1 glass Dry white wine150g Petit pois 1 cup1 small Bunch basil torn
    Preheat the air fryer to 190°C.Put the rice in a cooking dish or silicone insert in the air fryer, pour over the white wine and then add the stock. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring regularly.Add the peas and half the basil 5 minutes before the end of the cooking time.To serve, stir, add the Parmesan and sprinkle with the remaining basil.

    Keyword air fryer

    READ MORE: Are Air Fryers Actually Healthy Or Am I Kidding Myself?

    Chilli Con Carne

    Lelia Castello

    From Super Easy Air Fryer Recipes: 69 Simple, Quick and Delicious Meals by Lelia Castello

    Prep Time 8 minutes mins

    Course Main CourseCuisine Mexican

    Servings 4 serving

    1 air-fryer
    500g Minced beef400g Tinned red kidney beans400g Tomato sauce or passata1 Red bell pepper1 Red onion, finely chopped
    Preheat the air fryer to 180°C. Remove the stalk and core from the pepper and cut the flesh into cubes. Brown the pepper and onion in a cooking dish or silicone insert in the air fryer for 5 minutes.Add the minced beef and cook for a further 5 minutes. Add the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.Drain and rinse the red kidney beans, add to the chilli con carne and simmer for a further 5 minutes.Serve the chilli con carne with rice, if you wish.

    Keyword air fryer

    Best In The Game

    These air fryers have been hailed kitchen saviours by WH editors – and for good reason.

    Vortex Air Fryer 5.7L

    Food Network voted this one Best Air Fryer for three consecutive years, this multitasking wonder whips us crispy, tender food sans the extra fat and calories. The improved drawer design can easily accommodate large pieces of fish, four patties and a whole chicken with potatoes on the side.  

    Haden Dorset Air Fryer 6L

    This stylish and spacious appliance isn’t only aesthetically pleasing to the eye but can also cook meals that feed a family of up to six. The removable non-stick frying basket is dishwasher safe – we love a convenient babe!

    Philips Essential 6.2L Rapid Air Technology Air Fryer XL

    A unique design, generous basket capacity and Rapid Air Technology makes this a premium air fryer that requires little to no oil to create crispy, yummy meals that are tender and evenly cooked on the inside. 

    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes. This means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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    10 Healthy Snacks That Won’t Give You A Sugar Crash In 20 Minutes

    Raise your hand if you ever ate a candy bar for a mid-day boost, only to experience a sugar high…followed by an immediate crash. Yup, it’s a nasty cycle.

    An alternative? Sugar-free snacks that help stabilise your blood sugar and wean you off your sweet tooth says Desiree Nielsen, a registered dietician.

    Whether you opt for sugar-free or no-sugar-added (aka only naturally occurring sugar) snacks is totally up to your dietary needs.

    But, when you go for a sugar-free snack to fuel your body, be sure the ingredient list reads like a recipe (no chemicals or artificial sweeteners), says Nielsen. Look for the word “unsweetened” on the label, and go for snacks that have a hefty dose of protein and fibre to further balance your blood sugar and boost your energy.

    And don’t be scared of fruit! “Naturally occurring sugars in moderate amounts, like whole fruit as opposed to fruit juice, are part of a healthy diet,” says Nielsen. She explains that whole foods contain fibre that slows down the rate at which your body accesses the sugars (warding off that dreaded afternoon slump—yay!).

    Need some ideas to get started? Try an RD-approved, sugar-free and no-sugar-added snack to fuel your body right.

    1. Apples dipped in almond butter

    Nothing beats this no-utensils-needed iconic snack. “It’s one of my faves,” says Nielsen, thanks to its plant-based protein content. Be sure to read the label and make sure no sugar has been added to the almond butter.

    Per medium apple: 95 calories, 0 g fat (1.5 g saturated), 25 g carbs, 19 g sugar, 2 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 0.5 g protein

    Per 1 tbsp almond butter: 98 calories, 9 g fat (1 g saturated), 3 g carbs, 0 g sugar, 1 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 3 g protein

    2. Dates stuffed with peanut butter

    Nielsen says this is the perfect no-sugar-added snack for anyone with a serious sweet tooth.

    Per date: 66 calories, 0 g fat (0 g saturated), 18 g carbs, 16 g sugar, 0 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 0 g protein

    Per 1 tbsp peanut butter: 95 calories, 8 g fat (1 g saturated), 3.5 g carbs, 0.5 g sugar, 63 mg sodium, 1.5 g fibre, 4 g protein

    3. Sprouted grain toast with homemade chia jam

    To make the jam, Nielsen says to mash two and a half cups of thawed frozen raspberries and stir in two tablespoons of chia seeds. Let sit until the chia seeds plump and hydrate. The expansion of the chia seeds will help keep you fuller for longer.

    Per slice: 78 calories, 0 g fat (0 g saturated), 14 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 196 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 5 g protein

    READ MORE: Sugar-Free Easter Eggs With A Collagen Boost

    4. Unsweetened coconut milk yoghurt

    For the healthiest dessert in the history of desserts (or, dessert for breakfast), Neilsen suggests pairing yoghurt with unsweetened cocoa and diced frozen cherries stirred in for extra antioxidants.

    Per 1-cup serving: 110 calories, 7 g fat (7 g saturated), 10 g carbs, 0 g sugar, 45 mg sodium, 3 g fibre, 0 g protein

    5. Flavoured almonds

    A handful of almonds is the poster child of healthy snacking. But Bonnie Taub-Dix, registered dietician, says the Blue Diamond gourmet variety is her new go-to. “They come in a variety of flavours,” she says. “They also provide protein and just the right crunch to keep you feeling satisfied.”

    Per 30-gram serving: 170 calories, 15 g fat (1 g saturated), 5 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 130 mg sodium, 3 g fibre, 6 g protein

    6. Toasted whole grain waffle with low-fat cottage cheese

    Like waffle à la mode—but healthier. For an added boost of antioxidants, Taub-Dix suggests adding cinnamon on top, a great sugar-free way to add flavour.

    Per waffle: 70 calories, 1 g fat (0 g saturated), 13.5 g carbs, 1.5 g sugar, 130 mg sodium, 1.5 g fibre, 2 g protein

    Per ½ cup cottage cheese: 81 calories, 1 g fat (1 g saturated), 3 g carbs, 3 g sugar, 459 mg sodium, 0 g fibre, 14 g protein

    READ MORE: This High-Protein Vegan Salad Will Leave You *So* Satisfied

    7. Almond butter on whole-grain bread

    Not an avo toast fan? This alternative is Taub-Dix’s way of sustaining blood sugar levels throughout the day. Use only half a banana to keep the natural sugars low.

    Per 1 tbsp almond butter: 98 calories, 9 g fat (1 g saturated), 3 g carbs, 0 g sugar, 1 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 3 g protein

    Per slice: 69 calories, 1 g fat (0 g saturated), 11 g carbs, 1.5 g sugar, 99 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 3 g protein

    8. Overnight oats with almond milk

    Overnight oats made with unsweetened vanilla Almond Breeze almond milk are a dietitian go-to. “I like to add frozen raspberries, chopped nuts and chia seeds to help it congeal a little more. It’s also high in protein so it’s a great way to start the day,” says Taub-Dix.

    Per ¼-cup oats: 150 calories, 2.5 g fat (0.5 g saturated), 27 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 0 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 5 g protein

    9. Hummus

    Taub-Dix says her go-to partner for cut-up veggies—a food group most of us don’t get nearly enough of—is hummus. “It’s a good source of fibre and contains protein,” she says.

    Per 60-gram serving: 150 calories, 11 g fat (1.5 g saturated), 9 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 260 mg sodium, 3 g fibre, 3 g protein

    READ MORE: This Hot-Honey Broiled Pineapple Toast Recipe Will Crush Your Hunger

    10. Egg and Avocado Mash

    Taub-Dix recommends mixing one hard-boiled egg with one-fifth of a medium avocado for a protein-filled snack with plenty of heart-healthy fats.

    Per large egg: 72 calories, 5 g fat (1.5 g saturated), 0 g carbs, 71 mg sodium, 0 g sugar, 0 g fibre, 6 g protein.

    Per 1/5 of avocado: 45 calories, 4 g fat (0.5 g saturated), 2 g carbs, 2 mg sodium, 0 g sugar, 2 g fibre, 0.5 g protein.

    This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com  More

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    Everyone Will Love These 3 Healthy Recipes For Ramadan

    Refresh your dinner repertoire with these nutritious, healthy recipes during the month of Ramadan.

    Cariema Isaacs – South African cookbook author now based in Dubai – shares some of her favourite recipes from her book Spice Odyssey.

    “The best way to describe Cape Malay cuisine is possibly to say that we prefer our food well balanced when it comes to spices. Therefore our curries are also known to be spicy, but not fiery hot,” says Cariema.

    “My first lessons as a child helping my grandmother cook were about finding that balance. She maintained that our senses are meant to be awakened by the subtle flavours, which become pronounced with every bite. Thus, at a very early age, I understood the tastes derived from cumin and coriander, the pungency of fennel, cloves and star anise, and the piquancy of chilli powder, cayenne pepper and masala blends.”

    “The health benefits derived from spices are the true treasures… The warm saffron milk I drank at bedtime as a child, ushering me into a peaceful sleep; the concoction of turmeric and oil applied directly to the skin for my cuts and grazes; and the ginger-infused, honey tea given to me when my throat was sore.”

    Cariema also swears by ginger tea. “Ginger can promote perspiration, which can help lower body temperature – helpful when treating colds and flu. This process also helps the body get rid of toxins. Ginger tea can be made by adding a pinch of ground ginger to one cup boiling water and can help in the treatment of digestive disorders.”

    My Beloved Gobi Masala

    “I’ve always maintained that if I were ever to give up meat, I could happily survive on cauliflower. I happened upon this recipe during my visit to Mumbai and found a local restaurant in Dubai that makes a mean gobi masala. The sauce is really luscious and fragrant and perfect to have with Indian naan bread.”

    Cauliflower Spiced Curry

    Cariema Isaacs

    Course Main CourseCuisine Vegetarian

    Servings 4 servings

    2 tbsp vegetable oil2 medium onions, finely chopped8 fresh curry leaves2 tomatoes finely chopped4 cloves garlic finely crushed½ tsp garam masala1 tsp red chilli powder2 tsp ground coriander½ tsp turmeric½ tsp tandoori masala or biryani spice mix1 medium cauliflower cut into florets1 tsp salt2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander for garnishing
    Heat the oil in a medium-size saucepan on medium to high heat and immediately add the chopped onions and curry leaves to the pan.Sauté the onions for five to seven minutes, or until slightly golden.Add the chopped tomatoes and garlic and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have reduced to form a luscious sauce.Stir in all the spices.Stir in the cauliflower florets and salt and turn the heat down to medium. Simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the cauliflower is well coated with the curry sauce.Do a last taste test, as the cauliflower might require additional salt. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander.

    READ MORE: This Vegetarian Recipe Makes The Perfect Movie Night Snack

    Sanju’s Sri Lankan Beetroot Curry

    “Did you know that most households in Sri Lanka only use clay pots for cooking? According to my friend Sanju, using clay pots is known to be a healthier method of cooking and allows the dish to retain its purest form of flavour. I managed to bring home some cooking utensils after my visit to Sri Lanka, but my clay pot  is by far one of my most treasured finds.”

    Sri Lankan Beetroot Curry

    Cariema Isaacs

    Course Side DishCuisine Vegetarian

    Servings 4 servings

    4 medium beetroots1 tbsp coconut oil½ tsp brown mustard seeds½ tsp fenugreek seeds8 fresh curry leaves1 small red onion finely chopped2 green chillies slit lengthwise¼ tsp chilli powder1¼ tsp salt¼ cup water¼ cup coconut milk
    Peel and rinse the beetroot, then slice and cut them into thin strips. Set aside.Heat the coconut oil in a saucepan on medium heat and fry the mustard seeds and the fenugreek seeds, making sure they don’t overcook and burn.When the mustard seeds begin to pop, stir in the curry leaves, chopped onion and chillies.Reduce the heat to low and quickly stir in the chilli powder so that it does not burn.Stir in the beetroot strips, then add the salt. Pour in the water, cover the saucepan with a lid and cook the beetroot for about 10 minutes.Once the beetroot is ready (you can use a knife to test if it’s cooked or not – you don’t want it too hard, but equally not overly soft), stir in the coconut milk and cook for a further 10 minutes.Stir well, take the pan off the heat and serve with basmati rice.

    READ MORE: This Aubergine Curry Is The Ultimate Comfort Meal

    #mydubai Bowl

    “There is a hashtag that was introduced in Dubai a few years ago which aims to promote the vibrancy and diversity of this city. Soon the hashtag was accompanied by another hashtag, #mydubailife. As the hashtags suggest, it’s really about the things we so adore about our beautiful city and a life we have come to make here.”

    #MyDubai Bowl

    Cariema Isaacs

    Course LunchCuisine Vegetarian

    Servings 2 bowls

    2 small aubergines sliced about one-centimetre thick1 punnet cherry tomatoes halvedolive oil½ tsp dried oregano½ tsp dried mint1 cup cooked brown lentils1 cup canned chickpeas drained and rinsed¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves only2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed Sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper to taste2 cups mixed leafy greens2 tbsp pine nuts for garnishing2 tsp za’atar for garnishing2 lemon wedges for garnishingDressing¼ cup mint finely chopped and fresh 1 clove garlic crushed2 tbsp olive oil2 tbsp tahini paste2 tbsp water¼ cup lemon juice
    Preheat the oven grill.Meanwhile, arrange the aubergine slices and tomatoes on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Coat them with olive oil and sprinkle with the oregano and mint. Grill for about eight minutes, or until the aubergine flesh is light brown.Place the lentils and chickpeas in two separate mixing bowls. Add half the parsley to the lentils and the other half to the chickpeas.Drizzle one tablespoon lemon juice in each and season to taste with salt and pepper and then give it a good but gentle mix.Line two bowls with the leafy greens and arrange the aubergine slices and tomatoes on top. Add equal measures of the lentils and chickpeas.Scatter the pine nuts on top and toss gently. Sprinkle generously with the za’atar.Whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing and serve on the side, along with the lemon wedges. More

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    This 15-Minute Pregnancy Workout Does It All – Fast

    If you’re pregnant, making time for exercise can be rewarding but difficult to achieve. Waning energy and not feeling 100% can be powerful demotivators in your fitness journey. But this 15-minute pregnancy workout is made for a slow and steady approach, so you’re working at a level that feels comfortable for you.

    Meet the expert: Ash Iovino is the creator of the FitMom App and is a certified personal trainer and mother of three.

    Why this 15-minute pregnancy workout?

    Short and sweet is the name of the game here. “During pregnancy, motivation can be low,” explains Iovino. “Incorporating a 30-second-on, 30-second-off format, makes the time go by quicker and the workout more enjoyable, with enough rest in between to prevent quitting.”

    It’s also a scalable workout, meaning you can adjust to make it less intense if you need to. “This workout utilises a set of medium to heavy dumbbells, adapting to your fitness level during each stage of pregnancy,” says Iovino. “Tailored for expectant mothers, it focuses on promoting strength, flexibility and overall well-being, ensuring a safe and effective workout throughout your pregnancy journey.”

    READ MORE: “I’m Fit But Had A Rocky Pregnancy — Here’s How I Stayed In Shape”

    How to warm up for this workout

    There are a few moves to do to adequately warm up for this 15-minute pregnancy workout. This includes:

    Seated marching (Sit on a stability ball or chair, march in place, lifting your knees one at a time.)

    Cat-Cow pose (Inhale as you arch your back, tucking your chin for Cat Pose, then exhale, lifting your head and tailbone for Cow Pose, promoting spine flexibility.)

    Pigeon pose (Bend one knee and place the ankle across the opposite thigh, allowing the knee to open to the side. Gently lower toward the floor to stretch the hip and glutes.)

    Before attempting this workout, it’s important to check in with your healthcare provider. If you are looking for a PT, make sure they have a qualification in pre- and postnatal training. “Avoid randomly following workout videos on social media unless you’re certain they align with your specific stage of pregnancy,” says Iovino. If in doubt, try the many workouts in our FitMama section or try Ash’s FitMom app. “FitMom’s pre- and postnatal program spans 18 weeks, offering meticulously curated workouts designed for prenatal and postnatal stages, inclusive of mobility, stretches, and pelvic floor strengtheners,” says Iovino.

    Do this workout two to three times a week, says Iovino, along with regular low-impact exercises like walking and swimming, “provided they have received approval from their medical team and don’t have any complications in their pregnancy”. “If you were not accustomed to lifting heavy weights before pregnancy, maintain a moderate approach. Additionally, transitioning from high-impact, endurance, or strenuous training to a slower pace, ensures plenty of rest and attentiveness to your body’s cues. Regular, moderate exercise during pregnancy is beneficial, but it’s crucial to align it with your individual fitness history and current health status,” explains Iovino.

    READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know Before Doing Intermittent Fasting While Pregnant

    The 15-minute pregnancy workout

    You’ll need:

    A set of dumbbells

    An exercise mat

    Work for 30 seconds and rest for 30 seconds. Then repeat for three rounds of each move.

    1/ Squat and knee-to-elbow

    Start in standing, squat down, then bring your left leg up so your knee taps your left elbow. Bring your leg down, squat, then crunch up your right knee. Continue for 30 seconds.

    2/ Alternating bird dogs

    Start on all fours, with your back in a straight, neutral position. Kick out your right leg and extend your left arm out in front of you simultaneously. Bring each limb in to crunch, then extend back and release down into all fours. Repeat on the other side, alternating for 30 seconds.

    3/ Glute bridge

    Lie on your back with bent knees and hands at your sides to support you. Arch your butt upwards to form a bridge. Squeeze at the top and slowly lower back down. Keep going for 30 seconds.

    READ MORE: Pregnancy Workout: 5 Easy Exercises For A Healthy Bod

    4/ Shoulder press

    Standing up straight, grab your dumbbells and hold them with palms facing forward. Press up with your arms and slowly lower them back down. That’s one rep – keep going for 30 seconds.

    5/ Triceps kickback

    Start in standing, with knees bent. Hinge forward at the hips so your chest forms a 45º angle with the floor and hold your dumbbells with elbows bent so that they’re in line with your chest. Extend both arms backwards to work the triceps and bring them into your chest. Repeat for 30 seconds.

    Iovino demonstrates all the moves here:

    [embedded content]

    Michelle October

    Michelle is the features editor at WH. She’s immensely curious about the world, passionate about health and wellness and enjoys a good surf when the waves are good. Find her on Instagram here. More

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    This No-Gym Workout Is Ideal For The Holidays

    Going away for the holidays? This travel-friendly no-gym workout routine by trainer Johno Meintjies can be done anywhere. And it does the job in just 15 minutes!

    Unlike weird carpet designs, gyms do not come standard with every hotel. So top trainer Johno Meintjies created these simple but effective workouts that you can do in any space – even small. They use only your body weight and the kind of props you would normally find in a hotel room or at home.

    The 15-minute no-gym workout

    This no-gym routine, by Meintjes, is a classic example of a travel-friendly workout. It uses only your body weight and a pair of light weights or cans to sculpt your body from top to bottom. “The most important thing about this workout is that it’s nothing new,” says Meintjes. “Everyone has done these moves, but it’s the intensity that’s the key and also getting the foundation right. If you can master the technique and then bring in the intensity with the recovery, your results will be fantastic.”

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

    Do the workout

    The workout is designed into blocks, each consisting of 60 seconds’ strength work, 60 seconds’ dynamic strength work, 90 seconds’ flat-out cardio and then 30 seconds’ rest. “The recovery is important because you need to be working at maximum the whole time,” says Meintjes. The fourth and final block works differently. There are no strength moves; it’s just ninety seconds of flat-out, high-intensity cardio. “This last block is divided into divided into 30-second blasts of three different exercises,” says Meintjes. “You’ve done two of them before: squat jumps and high knees. Now we’re adding a burpee.”

    Watch a WH staff member perform the moves…

    [embedded content]

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

    Your Moves

    BLOCK 1

    1/ Squat to Kick x 60 secondsAlternate sides each rep.2/ Running Man x 60 secondsFocus on your breathing, keep your bum down and core stable.3/ High Knees x 90 secondsGo as fast as you can.4/ Rest x 30 seconds

    BLOCK 2

    1/ Lunge Pulse x 60 secondsSo 30 seconds on one side, then switch.2/ Push-up to Fly x 60 secondsAlternate arms each rep.3/ Jump Squats x 90 secondsMaintain a wide stance. Jump as high as you can.4/ Rest x 30 seconds

    READ MORE: The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

    BLOCK 3

    1/ Weighted Air Punch x 60 secondsHold light weights or identical cans in your hands.2/ Squat Pulse x 60 secondsKeep feet shoulder width and heels flat down.3/ Lateral, Wide, Deep Single-Leg Jump x 90 secondsIt’s a mouthful, but it’s really just jumping side to side. Make it as explosive as possible.4/ Rest x 30 seconds

    BLOCK 4

    1/ Squat Jumps x 30 seconds2/ High Knees x 30 seconds3/ Burpees x 30 seconds More

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    Super-Healthy Hot Cross Buns Recipe!

    We’ve found the recipe ingredient that’s not only packed with nutrients, vitamins and minerals – it’s also easy for gluten-intolerants to digest. And did we mention these buns are dairy- and sugar-free too? Thank us later…

    And the ingredient is (drumroll)… Spelt. Here’s how to use it to elevate your hot cross buns:

    Spelt Hot Cross Buns Recipe

    Spelt Hot Cross Buns

    This hot cross buns recipe is not only packed with nutrients – it’s also easy for gluten-intolerants to digest and are dairy- and sugar-free.

    Course Dessert, Snack

    300g spelt flour2½ tbsp coconut-blossom nectar or agave syrup1 tsp quick yeast2 tsp mixed spice1½ tsp Himalayan salt
5 cardamom pods, crushed1 large free-range egg25g coconut oil150ml almond milk70g dried apricots, chopped50g dried currantsFor The Crosses50g spelt flour25g almond milk
    Mix the flour, nectar (or syrup), yeast, spice, salt and cardamom in
 a bowl. Separately, whisk the egg, coconut oil and almond milk together and slowly mix it into the flour. Fold in the apricots and currants until it becomes a dough.Allow the dough 
to rest for one hour in a warm spot until it has risen. Knead dough for five minutes. Cut into eight balls. Place on 
a lined tray and rest for 30 minutes.Preheat the oven to 180°C and start making the crosses. Mix together the flour and milk and roll the dough into sausages.Once the buns have risen, mix a little nectar or syrup with water and brush over the top of the buns and stick on the crosses. Bake the buns in the oven for about 15 minutes, until golden. Brush again with the sweetened water and serve warm or toasted.

    Keyword Easter

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    Exactly How To Pick The Healthiest Muesli For Breakfast, Per Experts

    If you’re wondering if there’s such a thing as the healthiest muesli for breakfast, wonder no further. We’ve spoken to the experts about how to use this breakfast delight in ways that won’t leave you hanging by 9:30.

    Is breakfast important anyway?

    Things we know: Jeremy Allen White is bae, exercise can do wonders and breakfast is important. If you don’t believe us on the last part, hear this: there’s a well-researched connection between people who regularly eat breakfast and their long-term physical well-being, along with their energy levels. To boot, health experts assert that skipping breakfast has been scientifically associated with an increase in various health conditions including heart disease, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. To add insult to injury, some studies even suggest that skipping breakfast affects women more than it does men. But not everyone has the time for a full fry-up in the morning.

    READ MORE: Chew Slowly, Don’t Skip Breakfast And Eat 30 Plants A Week: 15 Easy Food Changes For 2024

    Is muesli healthy?

    Enter muesli: the breakfast champion that strikes a balance between taste and health benefits. Yet, a potential pitfall emerges when deciding on which box of deliciousness should be chosen: sugar. Yes, that sweet temptress that can transform our beloved morning staple from a wholesome delight into a sugary trap. “All muesli either contain sugar or honey as the second ingredient listed. Honey contains almost double the calorie content of sugar,” warns dietician Carey Seady.

    That’s important, since “the first ingredient makes up the biggest part of the product (by weight),” explains dietician Lindie Mosehuus. “Ideally, this first listed item should have the ability to be released slowly into the bloodstream, i.e. have a low glycaemic index (GI) and or be high fibre and or be a wholegrain ingredient.” But if your chosen muesli doesn’t have sugar or honey listed as a top ingredient, you’re setting yourself up for a meal that could be filling and nutritious. That’s because the bulk of muesli is made up of oats, which are naturally high in fibre and promote regular bowel movements, blood sugar stability, can lower cholesterol and help you to feel fuller for longer.

    READ MORE: Two-Ingredient Chocolate Mousse

    What should I look for when choosing a healthy muesli?

    Fibre, fibre, fibre, baby! Experts note that looking at the amount of fibre per 100g serving would be a good way to compare products. You want to aim for about 6g of fibre per 100g serving. When purchasing a box of muesli, Claudine Ryan, a Gqeberha-based dietician, suggests looking at the ingredient list to make sure that the basis (i.e., the first ingredient) consists of wholegrain carbohydrates like oats, wheat, barley, or rye as these are “rich in fibre, antioxidants, and B-vitamins,” she says. Additionally, look for a muesli with less than 5g of sugar per serving.

    How to make the healthiest muesli

    If you’re looking to bulk up the nutritional value of your muesli, there are tons of options. Boost your fibre by adding more fruit, up the protein content by mixing in some protein powder or add a healthy helping of protein-rich Greek yoghurt. You can also add extra fibre and protein by mixing in some chia seeds to your bowl. If you’re looking to boost your omega-3 intake, sprinkle in some walnuts, ground flaxseeds, or chia seeds, says Mosehuus.

    READ MORE: Your Ultimate Protein Pancake Recipe

    Healthy muesli picks

    These muesli picks have more fibre and less sugar, ticking the boxes for what constitutes a healthy breakfast choice.

    Woolworths Fruity Muesli

    Sally Ann Creed Bircher Muesli

    Vital Muesli

    Alpen Dark Choc Muesli

    Faithful To Nature Fruit, Nut & Seed Muesli

    Tia’s Real Granola

    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

    Alexa Evans is an editorial intern at Women’s Health. She loves all things travel, nutrition and animals. Additionally, with an Honours degree in Psychology, Alexa is an empath who enjoys learning about the mind and exploring the mind-body connection, as well as helping others.   More