More stories

  • in

    22 Simple Tips To Help You Lose Weight Safely—They Actually Work

    Are you tired of constantly trying to lose weight and failing? This is often due to bad desperate decision-making. Yes, we are looking at you bread-hating diets and you torturous Cleanse diet. It’s time to break the cycle and make healthy habits that’ll stick.

    Losing weight by improving your diet and lifestyle is without a doubt the healthiest way to go. All you need is practical tips on how to incorporate simple, easy and healthy choices so that you can not only shed those extra kilos. They’ll help you transform your relationship with food and exercise and embrace a happier, healthier version of yourself!  These tips hold true for most across the board — and they’re theories that you can put into practice today. Let’s get started!

    1. Do Some Aerobic Moves

    Not the Jane Fonda kind, but aerobic exercise. It refers to the exercise you do ‘with oxygen’ (think: cardio), and it used to be considered the best exercise for burning fat, as you use a higher percentage of it for energy. But it’s the anaerobic kind (short bursts of intensity, like HIIT – more on that later) that burn more energy over time.

    2. Burn Brown Fat For Weight loss

    The fat in your body is made up of different colours. Surprised? We know! White fat is the standard fat that stores energy and gathers around your body. Too much of this white fat can cause obesity. Brown fat is a type of body fat that regulates your body temperature in cold conditions. Brown fat also burns calories and generates heat, as does the less potent but more plentiful beige. Regular prolonged cold exposure fires up both helping you to slim down. Turn your air conditioner down to 19 degrees.

    3. Work The Deficits To Slim down

    If you are looking to lose body fat, you’ll need to be in a calorie deficit, explains sports nutrition expert Dr Emilia Thompson. “That means, simply, that you’re burning off more calories through exercise than you’re taking in.” Not a fan of tracking every morsel? Thompson recommends ruling out post-dinner snacks as a low-effort way to stay within your caloric budget and, ultimately, maintain your deficit.

    4. Watch Your Environment

    By which we mean factors that influence you to eat more and move less. This covers everything from eating the leftovers straight out of the pot (portion size) to a commute that consists of walking to your dining room table (sedentary jobs) and medicating a bad mood with an entire box of Astros (stress).

    5. Choose Foods That Keep You Full

    Or satiated. The goal is to choose foods that keep you comfortably full, for a while – and not to the point where you need a nap. The protein-rich yoghurt, fibrous fruit and fatty flaxseed in this breakfast parfait from performance nutritionist Liam Holmes will reduce your levels of hunger hormone ghrelin and raise levels of satiating peptides.

    INGREDIENTS

    150g Greek yoghurt (or a vegan alternative)

    A handful of berries

    1⁄2 banana, sliced

    2 tbsp flaxseed

    METHOD: Dollop half the yoghurt in a jar or bowl. Add half the fruit and flaxseed. Repeat. Eat.

    6. Watch The Junk

    In a Stanford study, we cited subjects who lost significant amounts of weight without counting calories by eschewing processed foods for the whole, real and satisfying kind. Guess what? They ate fewer calories without number-crunching. Quantity and quality both have an impact.

    7. Check Your Intentions

    Ensure that you’re trying to lose weight for the right reasons. If you think you can reduce deep sadness by slimming down or control a scary situation by controlling the number on the scale, that’s anything but healthy and could tip you over into disordered eating territory. Address the emotional issue first.

    8. TRY A HIIT Workout

    Want to torch excess fat in an expeditious fashion? Welcome high-intensity intervals into your weekly workout schedule. Try this no-gear, no-excuses circuit. Warm up, then go hard on each move for 45 seconds, resting for 15 in between. Build up to three circuits, giving yourself a minute after each round to get your breath back.

    01 | Push-up

    02 | Squat jump

    03 | Bicycle crunch

    04 | Close-hand push-up

    05 | Jump lunge

    06 | Bicycle crunch

    07 | Staggered-hand push-up

    08 | Split squat jump

    09 | Bicycle crunch

    9. Drink More Water

    Animal studies indicate that H2O may facilitate fat breakdown, while human trials show that if you drink more, especially before meals, you’ll eat less, as it helps you distinguish thirst from hunger. Another reason to hit your 2L target.

    10. Go Slow And Steady

    Your metabolism slows as you lose weight, stalling progress – or even reversing it. Former contestants on the diet show The Biggest Loser came away burning up to 800 calories per day fewer than average. Why? Because their bodies had adapted by going into starvation mode, doing all they could to cling to fat stores. Go slow and steady: aim to lose no more than 1kg a week.

    11. Axe Keto

    Touted to being the queen of weight loss. Think again. If you’re unfamiliar with “Atkins on steroids”, it’s essentially forgoing carbs (and fun) to get your body into ketosis: a state in which it burns fat for fuel. But once calories are matched, other diets are as effective for weight loss and superior for exercise performance and retaining muscle. Is it really worth forgoing fruit, veg, fibrous grains and beer? Didn’t think so. Should you need more convincing, two words: keto breath.

    12. Say No To Stress

    Stress triggers cravings and may leave you too strung out to buy and prepare healthy foods. It can lead you to eat poorly, mindlessly and irregularly (by disrupting hunger signals) or emotionally. Plus, you lose out on sleep. Dial it down with meditation, yoga or this breathing exercise by Michael Townsend Williams, founder of Do Breathe (dobreathe.com).

    01 | Sit somewhere comfortable and, ideally, quiet (or wear headphones).

    02 | Breathe deeply from your belly and through your nose, feeling the air passing through you.

    03 | Count to five on each inhale and exhale. Repeat three to five times.

    13. Get Some Light

    We kid you not. Yes, we’re talking about the UV kind. The sun’s rays shrink white fat cells, while studies have linked bright morning sunlight exposure to lower BMI because it signals that it’s time for your metabolism to get moving. Meanwhile, vitamin D from sunlight, salmon and eggs stir the fullness hormone leptin. Go for an al fresco brunch, basically.

    14. Stop Overeating

    Just don’t do it. Only eat when you feel physical hunger (gradual and in your stomach), not emotional (sudden and for a specific food). Ask yourself if you’re thirsty or bored. And be sure to stop before you’re full – as opposed to 10 minutes after.

    15. Work Your Quads

    Write this down: One of the two prime movers in a squat, a move that burns the most calories of all the common lifts. Read again, ‘burns THE MOST calories of all the common lifts’. Strength training while losing weight retains and even adds muscle, which raises your metabolic rate.

    16. Be Pro Probiotic

    Yes, the gut. You’ve been there, done that and brewed the kombucha. But did you know that gut bacteria also affect calorie extraction? Grow your own probiotics in your gut by eating plenty of garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, cabbage and oats. All contain prebiotic fibres that “good” bacteria go crazy for.

    17. Try Tracking

    Pretty self-explanatory, this. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a useful way of monitoring your dietary intake. Whether you use an app or pen and paper, give as much detail as you can about where key health markers – sleep, digestion, mood – are that day. It’ll help you see how lifestyle tweaks are affecting you.

    18. Reward Yourself

    The odd treat (not “cheat”) doesn’t affect your metabolism substantially but can refuel your staying power. But if weight loss is your goal, keep within your deficit, or all that discipline will be in vain.

    19. Eat More Consciously

    You eat more when you’re distracted by screens or music. So, contemplate what’s on your plate with mindful eating: bring your awareness to what you’re consuming, slow down and savour the smells, colours, textures and flavours. Om (nom nom).

    20. Eat More Veggies

    Eating less is hard – so eat more. According to a Penn State study, subjects trained to monitor portion sizes still ate however much was in front of them, but they consumed fewer calories by filling up on low-calorie, high-fibre veg. Devote half your plate to a variety of vegetables and you’re good.

    21. Add Yoga To Your Regime

    Regular practice can support weight loss for reasons beyond a raised heart rate. In a 2016 study, yogis who had lost weight credited the discipline with reducing cravings and stress eating. It’s also been proven to aid sleep.

    22. Get More Zzz’s

    Insufficient shut-eye causes you to sleepwalk towards a bunch of weight loss-sabotaging behaviours: eating bigger portions, selecting food impulsively, consuming more calories and expending less energy overall. It disturbs your hormones and gut bacteria to boot. So, remember: if you don’t adequately snooze, you don’t lose. More

  • in

    Beginners 5K Running Training Plan And How To Crush It In Just 6 Weeks

    If the thought of participating in a full-fledged running race seems daunting, starting with a five-kay run can be an excellent way to build confidence and ease into the world of racing. Not only does the shorter distance sound more achievable than a 10km or longer race, but 5km runs also tend to attract a fun-loving crowd of runners who value camaraderie over competition. Follow this training plan to go from couch potato to 5km runner in 6 weeks!

    5k Training Plan

    This plan, designed by fitness guru Amy Dixon, will help you build from a walk to running 30 minutes without stopping. Do all walking and running at an intensity level that feels challenging, but comfortable. Feel free to switch the rest day, but make sure you have one full rest day each week. And don’t forget to stretch.

    Getting Started

    Now that you have the plan, let’s look at starting out with a few basic items. Choosing the right gear can help you prevent running-related injuries and ensures the support and comfort you need on your 6-week journey. On your rest days, you can browse through the WH Tech and Gear section which is packed with expert advice, reviews, products and helpful tips.

    Adidas Supernova+

    Nike Dri-FIT Fitness Swift

    Nike Women’s Dri Fit Race Run Vest

    Puma Run High Impact Ultraform Bra

    Aonijie Funky Running Hat

    Salomon 250ml/8oz 28 Soft Flask More

  • in

    This Strength Leg Workout Will Build Strong, Sexy Legs

    By Rachel CosgroveThe easy exercises in this strength leg workout will reward you with a flat stomach, tight butt and slim thighs so you can rock a skirt with total confidence.

    Carrying extra weight on your thighs? That could point to a dependence on steady-state cardio. To lean out your legs, you need to supplement your slow-and-steady routine with fast-and-furious interval strength training. Along with burning kilojoules, you’ll also be building lean muscle, which sets off a chain reaction that boosts your metabolism, fires up your fat burners and sculpts the lean, toned legs you long for.

    For this strength leg workout, perform 10 reps of each move without resting between exercises. Do as many rounds as you can in two minutes. Then rest for two minutes. Repeat two or three times.

    Time: 30 Minutes | Equipment: A pair of dumbbells (start with four to six kilos and increase the weight as that becomes too easy) | Good For: Legs

    The Strength Leg Workout

    1/ Dumbbell squat to overhead press

    Hold a pair of dumbbells at shoulder height with your elbows bent and feet hip-width apart. Keeping your chest upright, bend your knees and lower until your thighs are at least parallel to the floor (A). As you stand, press the weights overhead until your arms are straight (B). Return to start. That’s one rep.

    2/ Alternating lateral lunge

    Holding a pair of dumbbells at your sides (A), step out to the left with your left leg; bend your knee and sit back to lower into a side lunge, keeping your back flat as you lower the right dumbbell to the inside of the left foot (B). Press through the left foot to return to start. That’s one rep. Repeat on the other side and continue alternating for five reps on each side.

    3/ Straight-leg deadlift with row

    Hold a pair of dumbbells in front of your thighs and stand with your feet hip-width apart (A). Bend forward and lower the weights until your back is parallel to the ground, keeping your back flat and the weights close to your body (B), then bend your elbows and pull the dumbbells up towards your chest (C). Return to start. That’s one rep.

    4/ Dumbbell squat jump

    Holding a pair of dumbbells at your sides, sit your hips back and lower into a squat (A), then push through your heels and jump as high as you can (B). That’s one rep.

      More

  • in

    23 *Stunning* Activewear Sets To Cop Now To Give Your Workout An Oomph

    Fact: losing the impetus to go workout when your gear doesn’t match or feel good is a *thing*. Enter activewear sets, matching bras and tights that’ll have you feeling your best self while training. Not only will you look good, but you’ll also feel good when moving in high-tech fabrics that look cute and get the job done. We’ve rounded up 23 of our favourite activewear sets, just because.

    But First, Why Is It Important To Invest In Good-Quality Activewear?

    According to adidas, 92% of women find it difficult to focus on their workout when their apparel is uncomfortable. adidas partnered with Associate Professor in Exercise Science and Elite Athlete Physiological Consultant Jason White and Professor Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, head of the Research Group in Breast Health at the University of Portsmouth. Further supported by a global consumer survey, they uncovered the extent of the impact of inadequate apparel. 

    A shocking 58% of women said that they frequently have to stop to pull up their leggings during a workout, whilst almost half (49%) have had marks left on their skin due to tight-fitting apparel. Plus, up to 94% of women are reported to have asymmetrical breasts, which reinforces the critical importance of the correct and supportive fit, as well as adequate performance wear (check out our 19 best sports bras of 2023, if that’s you).

    “From distractions to performance implications, the research and surveys have shown that a large majority of women face issues due to poorly fitting leggings. Whether the leggings are too tight or loose, comfort is a key element to performance, which is why unearthing this research is an important step to support a woman’s participation and enjoyment in all kinds of sport,“ explained Associate Professor Jason White.

    So yeah, choosing the right activewear is pretty darn important, but of course, you still want to be sweating in style. Never fear, our hand-picked selection of activewear sets is here to ensure you’re sorted for 2023 and beyond.

    Activewear Sets For HIIT

    adidas Tailored HIIT Training Set 

    This is one of the workout sets that was created based on the research above, so you’re getting expert-backed gear (on sale right now!).

    Designed with the sporadic movements of HIIT in mind, an integrated internal gripper on the high-rise waistband of these leggings helps minimise your tights rolling down as you jump and run. Meanwhile, the four-way stretch material aims to reduce the feeling of material digging in (don’t you hate it when that happens?) and provides all-round comfort. Plus, this bra’s HEAT.RDY tech and mesh detailing across the front and the open back design maximise airflow, so you’ll feel cool across those high heat and sweat zones.  

    Koko Active Kickstart Set

    Who knew houndstooth could look so chic as workout gear? The shorts feature pockets for storing your keys or phone and the racerback detail on the bra is stunning and shows off your back.

    Burnt Essential Sports Bra And Tights

    A black set is a staple in any workout gear wardrobe and this one will be a fast fave. The sports bra is designed with a long line fit for more coverage so you can feel comfortable wearing it without a shirt. The back of the bra is the real star though; with wide straps and adjustable fasteners so you can customise the fit you’ll get some serious high-impact support.

    The tights, on the other hand, have a thick reinforced waistband so you never have to worry about them slipping while you squat jump or doing a burpee. They’re also 100% squat-proof and designed to flatter all body types. BTW, Burnt is a proudly South African brand, too!

    Under Armour Infinity High Sports Bra and Merdian Print Leggings

    Under Armour nixed the traditional sports bra rules and injected the padding into this bra in a figure 8 pattern. The result? A more aerodynamic fit and a much lighter feel.

    The ankle leggings (perfect for those who are shorter or enjoy a shorter legging) have specially engineered fabric that is super-soft and stretchy. But it’s not that low-support stretch you might first think of, this delivers support and lasting comfort while still being lightweight and breathable. Get ready to smash your push-up PB next time you hit the gym in this kit.

    Activewear Sets For Running

    New Balance Impact Run AT set

    The bra has pockets at the rear for secure storage plus, reflective detailing for those early-morning runs. The tights have pockets too and a beautifully sculpted high waist detail.

    Women’s UA Run Trail Set

    With the winter fast approaching, a crop outer layer and shorts duo is the perfect pick. Both of these pieces are light, ultra-durable, stretchy (thanks to the 4-way stretch fabric) and built to dry fast so you can tackle any trail with confidence.

    The crop is made of super-soft fleece material and has water-resistant woven panels for added durability. Best part? The slouchy funnel neck with drawcord adjust.

    The shorts are made from UA’s updated HeatGear® fabric and have an expandable Speedpocket on the waistband, as well as side bungee lacing for extra storage. You can pack anything you need (even snacks)!

    PUMA Run Ultraform Set

    PUMA is another brand that focuses on developing workout gear with the female form in mind. This set was created for everyday runners. Both the tights and tank feature PUMA’s signature dryCELL moisture-wicking technology for enhanced temperature control to help you remain sweat-free. Plus, these pieces are made with at least 70% recycled material.

    And if you’re wanting to upgrade your kicks, they’ve recently launched the Deviate NITRO 2 Electrocharged running shoe in the pic (matchy-matchy!) It’s super responsive and has a layer of premium NITRO Elite foam for extra cushioning. You can check them out here.

    ASICS Papaya Bra and Tights

    ASICS’ new Gel-Nimbus™ 25 shoe has been one of the hottest releases of 2023 (you can read our review here). But they didn’t just release a gorgeous papaya shoe, we got a stunning matching set, too!

    The Accelerate Bra is a high-support running bra (goodbye movement!) that has a soft lower band (goodbye squished back skin!) and a cross-back design with adjustable straps so you can tailor your fit (goodbye awkward uni-boob!).

    The high-waisted tights are supportive, soft and stretchy in the best way and they’re quick-drying so you don’t have to stress about sweat marks. They also have a phone pocket at the back that’s sweat-resistant and bounce-limiting.

    Activewear Sets For Strength Training

    Under Armour Crossback Low Sports Bra and HeatGear® Leggings

    Under Armour asked real women how they could make UA bras even better, and then they made it happen! This one is built for light-support activity and has removable cups with perforations for better shape and breathability. And the tights have ergonomic flatlock seams to give you a comfortable, chafe-free fit. Both pieces are made with anti-odour tech which prevents the growth of odour-causing microbes. Cheers, stinky workout gear!

    Oh, and those trainers you can see in this pic, those are Under Armour’s new Flow Dynamic trainers and the WH team tested them out. We absolutely loved them and you can read our review here.

    2XU Racerback Crop and Compression Tights

    This set gives major Legally Blonde vibes and we’re here for it. We’re also here for the quality fabric and tech in these pieces. The medium-impact crop has been designed to prevent bounce and is perfect for your gym training sessions and even short runs and spin classes.

    Meanwhile, the compression tights are all about body-sculpting magic with no side seam construction, an extra high waistband and ultra-matte, anti-pill SLX fabric. The real star though? These tights have a mild graduated compression fit for increased circulation for improved recovery and reduced muscle stiffness post-exercise. We love when our workout gear works hard!

    Burnt Milan Sports Bra and Istanbul Tights

    Burnt is a local brand that has taken SA by storm and we can’t get enough of them! The Milan sports bra is their best-selling bra of all time and for good reason, too; it’s supportive, moisture-wicking and breathable. As if that’s not enough, it’s also double-lined and has removable cups.

    And the tights live up to the high praise of this sports bra as well. Burnt promises they are 100% squat-proof with zero transparency which means you don’t have to worry about anyone seeing your underwear through your tights (we’ve all been there). They’re also engineered to sculpt your legs and have a pocket for your keys or gym card.

    N3YH Sage Blossom set

    We love an understated yet bold item and these pieces do just that. With just enough colour to give you a sense of style while you deadlift, this pairing wants you to mix and match items for mimosas, farmer’s markets and downward dogs.

    Livv Activewear Snakeskin print set

    Gold-flecked snakeskin just screams luxe while being as hardworking as you are in the gym. Scrunch detail in the rear accentuates that butt you’ve been working so hard on and the high waist is just *chef’s kiss*.

    The Lot Outline Active Set

    Um, at R440, you can’t really get a better deal than this activewear set. The outline detail sculpts and creates shape.

    Activewear Sets For Yoga And Pilates

    Puma Studio Trend Set

    The soft materials will have you lounging around all day and supports through sweaty sessions with moisture-wicking tech. And just look at how beautiful it is?

    Motherkind Cross-Over Active Wear set

    Flattering halter neck detail? Check. High-waisted pants with drawstring so nothing comes undone? Check. Feeling like you can take on the world? Check, check, check.

    Bacon Bikinis Activewear set

    Think: soft, lush fabric that sits high at the waist and supports the bust. What’s not to love?

    DailyFriday Seamless yoga set

    If you’re working hard during your yoga sesh, you can’t go wrong with a pair of shorts. This detailed set includes flattering criss-cross shapes across the torso, so you’ll just feel your hottest self, while pivoting from horse to skandasana.

    Me and the Sea Earthy Twig set

    Find your flow with this gorgeous set of flowers that crawl up the legs. These pieces are individually cut, so your pair will be totally unique, plus the tights are double-lined (nothing showing when you bend down, woohoo!).

    adidas Collective Power TLRD Impact Luxe

    This bra, which was specifically created to flatter and support women of different sizes, is still available! Plus, it comes with gorgeous pink yoga leggings.

    Nike Zenvy and Indy

    The Nike collection creates pieces that seamlessly coordinate and match each other. Plus, Nike’s gone sustainable, with at least 50% of the product made with recycled nylon fibres. Big win.

    H&M softmove™ set

    Functional fabric helps to wick away moisture from your skin and SoftMove™, a supersoft, functional fabric that is lightweight and provides extra freedom of movement. Plus, that buttery fabric… *swoon*.

    Mr P Checked set

    This cropped bra with eyehole detail is good to go for coffee dates or the gym. The checked pattern is different without screaming you’re about to throw down at the weights.

    Kelleigh Korevaar

    Kelleigh is the Managing Editor of Women’s Health. When she’s not convincing her colleagues to try the latest TikTok trends, you can find her planning a holiday that never leaves the group chat, binge-reading or eating her way through Cape Town.

    Michelle October

    Michelle is a freelance writer at WH, passionate about all things health, fitness and mental wellness. She’s also an avid surfer and recently discovered skateboarding as a viable means of transport. Skate dates, anyone? More

  • in

    Easy No-Bake Oat Protein Balls To Fuel You Up For Your Next Race

    Sometimes, the hardest time to stay on track with healthy eating is in-between meals. Make snack time healthy with this oat protein balls snack recipe. They’re easy to make and can be prepared during loadshedding. Grab one for your lunchbox or before race day for a little oomph.

    Oat Protein Balls

    Ingredients 

    1 cup whole rolled oats

    2/3 cup coconut flakes

    ½ cup peanut butter

    ½ cup chia seeds

    ½ cup cocoa nibs

    1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

    3 tablespoons coconut oil

    ½ teaspoon vanilla powder

    Method

    Mix everything together in a medium bowl.

    Chill for 45 minutes.

    Roll the mixture into balls and enjoy.

    Store in the fridge.

    Looking for more protein recipes?

    Loadshedding? Try this no-bake Caramel Cream Cheese Balls recipe

    Supercharge your morning with this Protein Berry Porridge recipe

    A breakfast staple, try one of the 26 Protein Pancakes recipes

    Add To Cart

    Lifestyle Food Oats Rolled

    R49 at Dis-chem

    Coconut Flakes 250 g

    R59 at Woolworths

    ButtaNutt Peanut Butter

    R34 at Faithful to Nature

    Nature’s Choice Maple Syrup

    R185 at Faithful to Nature

    Vanilla Powder

    R78 at Woolworths

    Faithful to Nature Chia Seeds

    R79 at Faithful to Nature

    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. More

  • in

    Ultraboost Light Unveiled As The Latest Innovation From adidas Running

    The South African Marathon season is approaching fast. With the Two Oceans Ultra and Half Marathon scheduled for Saturday, 15 April and Sunday, 16 April 2023 respectively.

    Running is booming in our country, and, along with a huge increase in runners – by more than 10% since the 2020 lockdown, the tech in running shoes is forging ahead.

    One of the heroes of the new evolution of running-specific shoes is the BOOST cushioning from adidas. This month adidas unveiled the latest member of its most iconic running shoe franchise – the Ultraboost Light. Testament to their constant strive to take innovation to the next level, and in response to consumer feedback, the new Ultraboost Light has a ground-breaking new material at its core – Light BOOST.

    Marking a decade since the introduction of BOOST technology, the new and improved Ultraboost Light benefits from 30% lighter BOOST material. Resulting in a performance running shoe designed to offer epic energy, plush cushioning, comfort and responsiveness.

    Taking runners’ experiences to the next level, the all-new Ultraboost Light also includes:  

    A redesigned Linear Energy Point (LEP) found on the sole of the shoe reworked to optimise responsiveness and work in harmony with the new Light BOOST material. 

    PRIMEKNIT+ upper for an adapted fit that provides breathability and comfort.

    Continental™ natural performance rubber instils confidence in traction for all weather conditions.  

    A 10% lower carbon footprint* compared to previous versions.

    The new Ultraboost Light launches in a white colourway, featuring solar red and core black detailing. It is now available from adidas concept stores countrywide, online at adidas.co.za and on the adidas app.

    To celebrate the 10th anniversary of BOOST technology, adidas is also revealing a special edition version of the adidas Ultraboost Light with a dedicated colourway. The 10th-anniversary edition comes in a primarily black colourway, with black and yellow detailing. The same design that was found on the first-ever adidas silhouette with BOOST technology, the Energy Boost.

    Follow the @adidasZA #ULTRABOOST conversation on Instagram for more information. More

  • in

    8 Foods With High Water Content, For Maximum Hydration

    Hydration is key, so it stands to reason that you chug tons of water all day, right? Wrong. While maximising your water intake is important, you can also take in foods with high water content. Per one study, it’s not just hydration that’s a boon when eating your water. “In the last years, several investigations have suggested that water intake and retention could have important implications for both weight management and body composition,” the authors note. The study found that there’s a positive correlation between having a healthy body composition and adequate water intake. “The improvement of water intake and water balance could be useful for overweight and obesity prevention,” the study says.

    If you’re looking at upping your water intake, look to foods with high water content. Not only do these deliver an extra dose of nutrients and electrolytes, they’ll go a long way toward getting more water in your system. Plus, chugging bottle upon bottle of water isn’t for all of us. Here, the foods with high water content.

    Cucumber

    Ok, this one is obvious. Cucumber is so great in green juices because it’s mostly water and contains only 8 calories in a 52g serving. They’re also high in nutrients like vitamin K, potassium and magnesium. Cucumber sandwich, anyone?

    Strawberries

    91% of the weight of a strawberry is made of water. Plus, they’re incredibly high in vitamin C, folate and manganese. Eat them as they are, or blend them up and add to smoothies (even more water).

    Tomatoes

    These juicy red dudes are far more than just tart goodness. Not only are they high in vitamin C and lycopene (key for good oral health, bone health, and blood pressure), but they’re over 90% water. Eat cherry tomatoes as they are, or add them to your meals, roasted and flavoured with garlic. Yum.

    Cauliflower

    100 grams of cauliflower gets you more than 59 ml of water (that’s more than half!), as well as 3 grams of fibre. Not only is cauliflower the new low-carb darling (clutch for low-carb pizza bases, cauli rice and more), but it’s also home to a variety of nutrients.

    Cottage cheese

    Surprise, surprise! Not only is cottage cheese an amazing source of protein and healthy fats, but about 80% of its weight is also water. Stock up on this and spread over crackers, sandwiches or eat it with cucumber as a snack.

    Plain yoghurt

    Standing at 75% water, plain yoghurt also delivers important nutrients like calcium, potassium and protein. It’s also clutch at reducing your hunger pangs, because of its high water and protein content.

    Broths

    Since broths are just savoury bowls of water, it’s about 92% water, but depending on what you put in it, a broth can become a super-hydrating and healing meal. Consider boosting your broth with chilli, ginger and garlic for its anti-inflammatory properties. Also, drinking broth regularly won’t only fill you up but could also help your weight loss since it’s so low in calories.

    Watermelon

    Not only is this a low-calorie summer staple, but it’s also nutrient-dense, containing vitamin C, vitamin A, magnesium and lycopene. It’s also about 92% water, so blend it up and drink fresh watermelon juice to stay hydrated. More

  • in

    Is This Really The World’s Most Comfortable Running Shoe?

    Earlier this year, Asics launched the Gel-Nimbus™ 25 – the latest iteration of their Gel-Nimbus running shoe series – with a bold claim: “the most comfortable running shoe, as tested by runners”. That got our attention.

    What Asics Had To Say

    The Gel-Nimbus™ 25 contains PureGEL™ technology, which is designed to absorb shock and, according to Asics, creates the softest landing to date. Other notable features are the addition of Asics’s FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning foam, which is made using 20% bio-based material from renewable sources, and the stretchy, breathable knit tongue and collar.

    Independently Tested

    It took the Asics design team 18 months to come up with a running shoe that they believed could be called the “most comfortable”. They then handed it over to Dr Chris Bishop, a podiatrist and biomechanist at The Biomechanics Lab in Australia for testing. He designed a test to pit to the Gel-Nimbus 25 against three competitor shoes, as well as the Asics Gel-Nimbus 24. He recruited 100 runners – 52 men; 48 women – to take part in the eight-week study, which involved running on a treadmill for three minutes.

    All the shoes were disguised, so study participants had no idea which shoes they were wearing. After reviewing the study participants’ ratings across various categories, Dr Bishop concluded that, “Comfort is a perception factor which is not a biomechanical variable and it’s not the same for every individual. However, the results of this study were conclusive: the GEL-NIMBUS™ 25 was statistically the most comfortable running shoe tested.”

    WH Tests The Asics Gel-Nimbus™ 25 Running Shoe

    Intrigued by the lab results, Wanita Nicol took the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 for a test-run under less lab-controlled, more plot-twisty conditions: South Africa’s roads.

    First Impressions

    The first thing I noticed, out of the box, was that the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25s felt a lot lighter than they looked. They’re actually quite broad and chunky looking, but this doesn’t translate into added weight. The next thing that jumped out at me was the tongue – it’s stretchy, perforated and a lot spongier than I’m used to. I find that running shoes sometimes squash the bridge of my foot and this tongue design prevents that from happening. When I read up about the shoe, I saw this was a key design feature – and the perforations I noticed are for ventilation.

    Fit

    The toe box is not as wide as I was expecting from the look of the running shoe, but it also wasn’t cramped – my toes had plenty of space to flex and move. (That said, I have narrow feet.) This snug fit also meant that my foot didn’t slip inside the running shoe, which can cause blisters. There’s a really nice, cushioned collar that prevents chafing and the laces – which are long and also have a good stretch, preventing them from digging into the top of your foot – have extra eyelets that you can use to create even more stability.

    Stability

    Speaking of which, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 has a broad base for a running shoe, making it feel really stable. That higher collar that wraps around your ankle also made me feel more secure.

    Grip

    The sole felt nice and grippy on the road and gravelly pavements, although I haven’t tested it in wet conditions.

    Versatility

    When you’re forking out a lot of money on a running shoe you may want to use it for different things. The shoe looks really good – on the run and with jeans. In fact, walking around the mall, I had a random stranger say, “I like your shoes!” and when a sports shoe passes the random-stranger test you must know it’s giving style! But as for other sports, this shoe feels, to me, like a road running shoe, end of story. I would not take it offroad – even just running over small stones, I could feel them right through all that cushioning (of course, I could just be long-forgotten royalty ala The Princess and the Pea). And while the base is broad and stable, I wouldn’t feel comfortable doing a functional workout in them with all that cushioning.

    Speed

    Sometimes you put on a running shoe and you feel like you just want to run as fast as you can. This is not that shoe. However, I felt like I wanted to keep going. I did my usual loop around the neighbourhood and as I neared the end, I still felt fresh and like I could go around again. I found it very easy to maintain a steady pace.

    Comfort

    And now for the big one – the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 feels like running on marshmallows. The landing is so soft and pillowy, I didn’t feel any of the jarring sensation I sometimes feel as I start getting fatigued and I had none of the pain in my joints that I sometimes feel as a result. The fit is correct to size, so I didn’t ever feel that my toes were knocking against the front of the shoe or that my heels were slipping out of it. There was no painful chafing and no annoying bite of a lace or any other part of the running shoe. The only bit of discomfort I felt was that my feet felt a bit toasty, which I suspect might be welcome in winter when they typically feel like ice blocks on early-morning runs.

    A Running Shoe For People Who Hate Running

    So, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 is comfy. But who is it for?

    My take:

    I think it’s a good running shoe for people who hate running. From experience, I hated running until one day I put on a pair of shoes that cushioned my landing and took the pain out of the experience. I feel this shoe could be that gamechanger for other reluctant runners. It’s also good for recreational runners who just want to enjoy going for a jog and maybe run further but aren’t chasing a fast time.

    A more serious runner weighs in:

    While I – nowadays – enjoy running, I don’t run far and I don’t run particularly fast either. So, I asked my friend Amy (@‌amy_hoppy on Insta), a triathlete and half-marathoner, what she thought of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25. Here’s what she had to say:

    “The Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 shoes are a slightly wider iteration of the 24, meaning greater comfort in the toe box for wider feet like mine. I love the new stretchy tongue and really enjoyed the comfort of the new foam configuration. It’s a shoe you can comfortably wear all day (I’ve tested that) and is ideal for LSDs (Long, Slow, Distance – i.e. your long weekend runs). It’s not a speed shoe (for short, sharp distances), but a good 21km+ and marathon shoe and everyday runner’s training shoe. Their comfort means that two-hour+ long runs won’t feel as taxing on your body and feet.”

    Price

    The Gel-Nimbus™ 25 goes for R3 499 at asics.com. The women’s sizes start at UK3 and go up to UK10, with half sizes available up to size 9.

    Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 | Papaya

    Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 | Indigo Blue

    The Verdict

    The Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 is a very comfortable running shoe. Is it the most comfortable in the world? I’d have to test a lot more shoes to make that call, but of the shoes I have tested, it’s certainly high on the list. Is it worth the price? If a jarring landing is holding you back from pursuing your running dreams, then I would say yes. And if you usually spend this amount of money on a running shoe, this one is worth checking out More