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    5 DIY Flavoured Waters For Every Situation

    Flavoured water has taken the health community by storm – and now, it’s near impossible to have a sip of good old H2O without craving a bit of cucumber and lemon to spice it up. But it’s actually a great way to flush toxins while at the same time fixing a few niggles in your system.Here are five flavoured waters for every situation…If you’re hungover Hydration, hydration, hydration! And this doesn’t necessarily involve chugging buckets of plain water either. Drinking in excess means you’ve lost vitamins, most importantly Vitamins B, C and folic acid. Spike your water with strawberries (a yummy source of Vitamin C) and oranges, an ace source of Vitamin B12 and folic acid. And since you’ll be chugging the stuff all day, alternate with lemon water: it’ll not only flush out toxins but balances out the PH levels in your body that are out of whack after a night of booze-induced revelry. You can thank us tomorrow morning.If you’re at the gym Go for what’s rich in magnesium, a mineral that powers your bones and keeps you going for long periods of time. Add leafy greens to your water, like spinach or kale. To even out the bitter taste and promote flushing out last night’s cheat meal, add some lemon, too.READ MORE: What To Look Out For When Picking A Water BottleIf you need to freshen your breath Reach for sprigs of peppermint: it freshens up your mouth with menthol and eases IBS (perfect after a giant plate of garlicky, cheesy nachos). Throw in some cucumber for added hydrating benefits.If you’re nauseous Tummy bug? Ginger’s your gal: she’ll ease inflammation and gas, and coupled with anti-inflammatory pineapple, you’ll be sipping your way to a better gut. Add in mint, too – it combats bloating and constipation.If you’re in need of a detox Drop kiwis and blueberries to your water. It sounds almost too delicious to be true but kiwis are super nutrient-dense with lots of vitamin C, which helps prevent wrinkles and promotes skin rejuvenation. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, the stuff that combats harmful elements in the air. More

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    The HOKA Gift Guide Every Runner Will Thank You For

    PB your gift-giving this festive season and spoil the runner in your life with a pair of new HOKA shoes.

    HIGH MILEAGE WORKHORSE

    HOKA Bondi 8

    One of the hardest working shoes in the HOKA lineup. The Bondi takes a bold step forward this season, reworked with softer, lighter foams and a brand-new extended heel geometry. Taking on a billowed effect, the rear crash pad affords an incredibly soft and balanced ride from heel strike to forefoot transition.

    EVERYDAY KILOMETRES, ELEVATED

    HOKA Skyflow

    Designed to elevate your daily running practice, the Skyflow combines premium Skyward X-inspired geometry with upgraded foam compounds, taking everyday miles to the next level. Super-critically foamed EVA offers an extra cushy, springy ride, while a supportive heel-focused Active Foot Frame™ cradles the foot and a smooth forefoot rocker profile encourages effortless strides. Constructed with a sleek upper and extra durable outsole, this shoe redefines the idea of “daily driver.”

    LIGHT AND PLUSH FOR EVERYDAY MILES

    HOKA Clifton 9

    The ninth iteration of our award-winning Clifton franchise has launched, lighter and more cushioned than ever before. Eliminating weight while adding 3mm in stack height, the new Clifton 9 delivers a revitalized underfoot experience with a responsive new foam and improved outsole design. Removing overlays and hotmelts, the stripped back upper has been consciously crafted with a plusher heel, reflective heel panel, and streamlined tongue with single side medial gusset.

    A SURPRISINGLY SLEEK STABILITY SHOE.

    HOKA Arahi 7

    Not your average stability shoe, the new Arahi 7 delivers the same streamlined support as its predecessor with our patented J-Frame™ technology. Updated with a zonally engineered, flat knit upper for improved midfoot lockdown, we’ve fine-tuned the fit with a plusher tongue, and a stretchy dual gusset beneath the lace line to help mitigate tongue migration.

    YOUR GATEWAY TO EVERYDAY SPEED

    HOKA Mach 6

    Behold our lightest, most responsive Mach to date. This lively trainer has been fine-tuned for extra energy return with a super critical foam midsole and updated for enhanced durability with strategic rubber coverage in the outsole. Implementing speed focused design details throughout, we’ve enlisted a new creel jacquard upper with zonal breathability and an internal gusset to deliver the foot-hugging comfort required to set your next PR.

    Find them at top running stores or conveniently online at Runbeatable.co.za.**WH Partnership More

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    The Ultimate Core Workout For Abs Of Steel – From A Trainer

    We get it: the ultimate way to show off your hard-earned gains in the gym is to have shimmering, chiselled abs of steel. Luckily, this ultimate core workout, made up of different abs workouts, is an intensive all-over toning routine to get you from A to Teyana Taylor hotness. Why are abs workouts important? We’re so glad you asked! Having a strong midsection is far more beneficial than an iconic crop top moment. It’s imperative for stellar posture, which supports the spine. A good posture is so much more than looking great in outfits and appearing slimmer, too. It prevents injury, aches and pains and even reduces wear and tear on your joints. Translation: you can push back purchasing a walking stick. That’s not all: doing this core workout will support your body in other ways. It naturally elevates every workout or sport, since the force you produce is far greater when your powerful midsection is behind it. A muscly midsection protects your internal organs, alleviates back pain, improves your running, burns fat… the list is endless. How to do this *ultimate* core workout Fitness Trainer and Owner of FIT BEST Training, Renché Seyffert, created this workout for all levels. Here’s how: When to do it Add this routine to the end of your regular workouts two to three times a week. This abs workout takes just 12 minutes to complete. Short on time? Pick just one or two combos and repeat for as much time as you have! How to time it For best results, try working for 50 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds between each move. But you can scale things, depending on your level. Beginners: Use the 40/20 principle. work for 40 seconds then rest for 20 seconds. Make it harder: Add extra weights to each move, either on your legs, weight plates (for advanced movers only) or use dumbbells. Ready, steady… work!READ MORE: What You Really Need To Know About Running For Weight Loss, According To ExpertsThe Ultimate Core Workout Combo 150 seconds – Shoulder taps (targeting the core and shoulders)10 seconds rest50 seconds – High plank knee circles (targeting the core and hip flexors)10 seconds rest50 seconds – Combination: 2x shoulder taps; 2x knee circles; repeat for time 10 seconds restCombo 250 seconds –  Commandos (targeting the core and arms)10 seconds rest50 seconds – Plank jacks  (targeting the core and legs, while increasing the heart rate)10 seconds rest50 seconds – Combination: 2x commandos and 2x jacks, repeat for time 10 seconds restREAD MORE: How To *Actually* Lose Belly Fat With Diet And ExerciseCombo 350 seconds – Tricep dips in bridge position (targeting the core and triceps)10 seconds rest50 seconds – Toe taps in bridge position  (targeting the core)10 seconds rest50 seconds – Combination: 1x tricep dip; 2x toe taps, repeat for time 10 seconds restREAD MORE: The 15-Minute Tone Up WorkoutCombo 450 seconds – High plank reaches (targeting the core and shoulders)10 seconds rest50 seconds – High plank leg lifts  (targeting the core and glutes)10 seconds rest50 seconds – Combination: 2x reaches; 2x leg lifts, repeat for time 10 seconds restCheck out the entire workout here:
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    Dark Chocolate Power Bark Is The Easy Snack Your Netflix Marathons Are Missing

    Craving something sweet to go with your popcorn while binge-watching the latest Netflix holiday movies? Enter dark chocolate power bark – a salty-sweet treat that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Created by author and chef Serena Wolf, this indulgent snack comes together in just five minutes (yes, really).

    Dark Chocolate Power Bark

    You can make this salty-sweet dark chocolate power bark from author and chef Serena Wolf in five minutes or less.

    Prep Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 5 minutes mins

    Course Snack

    Servings 8 servings

    100 grams dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) chopped into small pieces¾ cup granola¾ cup dried tart cherries¼ cup chopped pecans
    Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment. Briefly set it aside.Place the chocolate in a large microwave-safe glass bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each one, until the chocolate is completely melted. This should take about 2 minutes.Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and smooth it out with a spatula until it’s about 1/6-inch in thickness. Evenly sprinkle the granola, cherries and pecans over the chocolate.Let the bark stand at room temperature for 3 hours until set, or pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes. (I’d go with the latter if I were you.) Peel off the foil, and break bark into whatever size pieces you’d like. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or pop it in the freezer for all eternity.

    Easy Snack Recipes To Try:This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com. More

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    A Hearty Roasted Salad You’ll Turn To All Summer Long

    When the weather calls for cool, easy food, this roasted veggie salad from renowned South African chef Reuben Riffel delivers all the smoky, sweet and hearty flavours we crave. Perfect as a side for a braai or even as a main, this salad packs enough flavour and texture to stand on its own, making it an ideal go-to for lunches or dinners during the warmer months.READ MORE: The Steak Recipe Guests Will Still Be Raving About Weeks Later…“Many vegetables benefit from fire cooking, but none more so than butternut and beetroot,” explains Reuben Riffel. “This salad is great even without the roasted vegetables, but the sweet smokiness of these two cooked over the coals takes it to another level. Paired with a tangy yoghurt dressing, they’re the perfect combination for a substantial and satisfying salad,” he adds. Riffel is the creator of this recipe that can be found in his brand-new cookbook Braai.

    Braai by Reuben Riffel

    “The recipes in this book are the tried and tested ones that got the thumbs up from friends and family, and range from incredibly simple to more creative. You’ll find different meats and seafoods, loads of vegetables and salads… and a good helping of quick and easy snacks to keep everyone happy kuiering by the fire while you cook the main event,” says Riffel.

    Roasted Summer Salad Recipe

    Roasted Beet, Butternut and Walnut Salad with Green Herb Yoghurt Dressing

    Reuben Riffel

    This salad is great even without the roasted vegetables, but the sweet smokiness of these two cooked over the coals takes it to another level. Paired with a tangy yoghurt dressing, they’re the perfect combination for a substantial and satisfying salad.

    Cook Time 30 minutes mins

    Course Side DishCuisine South African

    Servings 4 servings

    6 medium beetroots1 large butternut1 tbsp olive oil1 tbsp Rozendal vinegarSalt and ground black pepper1 packet crunchy lettuce (washed) iceberg, cos or baby gem2 avocados sliced1 red onion finely sliced1 packet walnutsGreen Herb Yoghurt Dressing3 tbsp olive oil½ lemon juice2 tbsp Rozendal vinegar1 small clove garlic1 cup plain coconut yoghurtHandful tarragon leavesHandful fresh dillHandful parsleyA few drops Tabasco sauce
    Roasting the VegetablesPrepare medium-hot coals. Place the beetroots and butternut directly into the coals and cook, turning occasionally, until tender, about 25–30 minutes. Remove from the heat and brush off most of the charred skins.Chop 3 beetroots into quarters and scoop out bite-size chunks of butternut from the skins.Puréeing the BeetrootPreparing the Dressing and WalnutsAssembling the SaladSpread the beetroot purée on the serving dish. Top with lettuce, roasted beetroot quarters and butternut, avocado and slices of red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and sprinkle with toasted walnuts.

    Keyword Braai Recipes, salad, south african recipe, vegetarian

    READ MORE: Dessert On The Braai? Nail It With These Easy BBQ Strawberries With Black Pepper Honey Glaze More

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    “I Went From Everyday Gym Goer To Starting My Own Running Club And Competing In HYROX”

    When you hear the word HYROX, it sends a chill down your spine – and for good reason. In the fitness world, it’s a serious test of endurance, strength and mental grit. This is not the kind of event where you just ‘wing it’. Training involves intense high-volume workouts with weights and running. It’s a real test of fitness and that’s exactly what Chané Grobler experienced at her first HYROX event. This full-time med student took on challenges leading up to and during the event, but the reward of crossing that finish line and saying, “I just did that” made it all worthwhile. It’s a reminder that no fitness journey is easy – long hours of training, consistency and mental toughness are all part of the deal, especially when you’re balancing it all with a busy life.READ MORE: Everything To Know About Hyrox, The Tough New Fitness RaceA Fit Foundation Chané’s fitness journey didn’t begin with grand ambitions of competition. Growing up in an active household where movement was part of daily life, it was her dad who first introduced her to the world of fitness. High school netball didn’t ignite a passion for team sports, but after school, she found her own space in the gym. With her dad mentoring her through the ups and downs, she built the foundation for what was to come.At first, her motivation was simple curiosity. She wanted to explore what her body was capable of and create her own sanctuary in the fitness world. But it wasn’t long before this fascination turned into something much bigger.The CrossFit ConversionAlthough Chané’s journey started with traditional weight training, everything changed when she discovered CrossFit. Two years ago, she shifted from her regular gym routine to this high-intensity sport and she hasn’t looked back since. CrossFit, with its endless variety of movements and constant challenges, offered her a new perspective on fitness. The discipline and dedication it required were nothing short of addictive, and it didn’t take long for her to realise that this sport was here to stay.“CrossFit will always be a challenge, no matter how fit or strong you become. It forces you to constantly improve,” Chané reflects. This experience not only built her physical strength but also laid the groundwork for handling the demanding training required for HYROX.Falling In Love With Running – EventuallyRunning wasn’t always a love affair for Chané. In fact, when she first started at the end of 2023, she hated it. Like many, her early runs were battles of will, hoping the act of pushing through would somehow make it easier. Eventually, though, she began to enjoy it. So much so that she co-founded her own running club, Brooklyn Run, alongside a group of like-minded individuals. What had once been a weakness became one of her greatest joys.This newfound love for running, combined with her passion for CrossFit, set the stage for her HYROX debut. “When I heard about HYROX, it felt like the perfect blend of CrossFit and running – two things I had become semi-good at,” Chané jokes. She knew this was something she wanted to try, although she had no idea how much it would challenge her.Training For HYROX: Physically and MentallyPreparing for HYROX was no easy task, especially on top of being a full-time med student. Physically, Chané felt confident in her strength but was most nervous about the running component. She adapted her CrossFit sessions to include more HYROX-specific movements, focusing on tough exercises like sled pulls and pushes. Saturdays became dedicated HYROX days, complete with simulations and fitness tests.However, running needed extra attention. “A few 5 km runs a week wasn’t going to cut it,” Chané admits. She incorporated track and hill sprints into her routine and discovered just how little she knew about proper running training. But as her fitness improved, so did her confidence.The mental preparation was a whole different game. “I had to stop comparing myself to people who’ve been doing this for years,” she says. With HYROX being relatively new, she scoured every “tips and tricks” video she could find, but soon realised that information overload could be paralysing. Trusting her training, she focused on celebrating small victories and learning from the tougher days.The biggest shift in her mindset came after completing her first HYROX simulation about a month before the event. Suddenly, what once seemed impossible began to feel achievable and her nerves started to settle.READ MORE: Don’t Fall For These Common HYROX MistakesThe Challenges of TrainingTraining for HYROX was demanding, but doing it alongside her medical studies added another layer of difficulty. One of the toughest battles was silencing the nagging voice that said, “You’re not doing enough.” Chané constantly had to remind herself that she wasn’t a professional athlete – she was a full-time student trying to manage both responsibilities.She learned to adjust her training based on her academic load, waking up early to fit in runs before class or staying up late to finish her assignments so she could train longer the next day. “When something’s important to you, you find a way to make it work,” she says.Another unexpected challenge was nutrition. About two months into her training, Chané hit a wall. She was exhausted all the time, falling asleep in class and her training quality dropped. She quickly realised she wasn’t fuelling her body enough for the amount of work she was doing. Increasing her calorie intake – particularly carbs –and focusing on hydration made a world of difference.The Big DayThe day of HYROX Cape Town was one filled with nerves, excitement and, ultimately, triumph. Chané’s heat didn’t start until 17:10, giving her the whole day to think about what was coming. But once she entered the arena, all those nerves melted away. The atmosphere was electric, with music pumping, lights flashing and spectators cheering. She couldn’t wait to get started.Crossing the finish line was a moment she’ll never forget. “It was impossible to wipe the smile off my face that evening,” she recalls. “We are capable of so much more than we give ourselves credit for.”Pushing ThroughOne of the standout moments during the event was Chané’s performance in the sled push, where she placed fourth overall. “I think I made the CrossFit community proud with that one,” she laughs. But not everything came so easily. The burpee event nearly broke her spirit. At one point, she questioned whether she’d even be able to finish. But seeing her parents cheering from the sidelines gave her the strength to push through.From there, a new fire was ignited. She powered through the rowing and other movements, making up for lost time and finishing strong.Evolving Body and MindsetThroughout her HYROX journey, the most transformative change was in both her body and mindset. Initially, her drive was fuelled by a desire to impress those around her, but as the training progressed, her “why” became far more personal. “I shifted from ‘I need to impress everyone around me’ to ‘I am doing this to make myself proud.’ A bitter pill to swallow is that far fewer people care about what you do than you might think,” she reflects.She soon realised that external validation wasn’t sustainable. “If your only motivation is avoiding failure, you’re going to fail. And failure is the only way you’ll truly get better,” she says. This shift gave her the confidence to embrace the process, leading to a deeper sense of self-pride.Physically, the transformation was just as impactful. Initially hesitant about incorporating running, she feared it might interfere with her strength-building goals. But over time, her body adapted in ways she hadn’t anticipated. “I’m still trying to figure out the sweet spot between too much and too little running, but my endurance has significantly improved and my body handles fatigue better than ever.”Words of WisdomFor anyone considering participating in HYROX or embarking on a fitness journey from scratch, she offers some valuable advice. “Don’t overwhelm yourself with too much information. Stick to a few trusted sources, especially if you’re not part of a CrossFit or HYROX gym,” she advises.She also emphasises the importance of running: “Running is the most crucial part of a successful HYROX and sets a strong foundation for any fitness venture. Strong running equals more energy for the functional components.”Equally important is mastering the movements. “Know the movements and movement standards well, and focus on the quality of your movements during training. Don’t wait until competition day to figure it out – being prepared will put you at ease on the big day.”And lastly, she stresses the power of community: “Surround yourself with people who want to see you win. You’ll need them when training gets tough or when self-doubt creeps in. I’m so grateful for the people I’ve met and the communities I’ve become a part of. We need people; they make us much stronger.”What’s Next?With HYROX Cape Town behind her, Chané’s sights are now set on HYROX Johannesburg 2025. She’s also preparing for the CrossFit Open early next year, aiming to qualify for the quarterfinals once again. Her focus is on improving her running and endurance, particularly when fatigued and finding ways to streamline her performance.As Chané reflects on her journey, one thing is clear – HYROX has transformed not only her body but also her mindset. “I’ve gained so much confidence in myself and my abilities,” she says. “The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that failure is a part of growth. You’re going to fail, but that’s the only way to get better.”And for anyone considering their own fitness journey, her advice is simple: find your people, focus on the basics and don’t be afraid to take the leap. You just might surprise yourself. More

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    Prep This Smokey Sweet Potato Side For Easy Weeknight Wins

    Think smokey, sweet and vegan, all dressed up with a swirl of B-well mayo. Whether you’re serving it up as a braai side, pairing it with a chicken breast and salad for lunch, or alongside a grilled steak for dinner, it’s the perfect fit. The best part? It’s super easy to make and takes just 15 minutes to prep!What we love about B-well Mayo? It’s completely free from eggs, dairy and gluten, making it a dream for anyone with dietary restrictions. As a 100% vegan option, it’s perfect for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle or anyone after a healthier, delicious mayo that ticks all the boxes!“We believe everyone should enjoy the simple pleasures of mayo without worry. As a mom, I often have to cater to my own family and my children’s friends, some of whom suffer from allergies. I can honestly say that, despite being egg- and dairy-free, B-well Mayo delivers on taste.”

    Lunique, Spokesperson for B-wellVersatility is one of B-well Mayo’s greatest strengths. Whether you’re spreading it on sandwiches, mixing it into a salad dressing, or using it as a dip, B-well Mayo adds the delicious flavour you’re searching for, especially in a diet restricted by allergies or lifestyle choices. From vegan potato salads to burger toppings, or even as a base for your favourite sauces, B-well Mayo brings a rich, creamy taste that everyone can enjoy. Because, after all, everyone deserves some yum!Let’s Make This Delish Sweet Potato Salad

    Smokey Sweet Potato Salad

    A quick and easy side dish to accompany your weeknight steak.

    Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes mins

    Course Salad, Side DishCuisine South African

    Servings 2 servings

    1 cup B-well Reduced Oil MayonnaiseJuice of half a lemon½ tsp cayenne pepper½ tsp smoked paprikaSalt and pepper, to taste3 large sweet potatoes peeled and cut into cubes½ red onion finely choppedHandful of fresh coriander, chopped
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the sweet potato cubes and cook until soft to the touch. Set aside to cool.To make the dressing, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, cayenne pepper and paprika in a large bowl, mixing well. Add salt and pepper to taste.Add the sweet potato to the bowl and mix together.Add the red onion and coriander and gently mix until combined.Serve chilled.

    Keyword Vegan

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    Grilled Romaine Lettuce, Sumac-Tahini Yoghurt and Pomegranates Salad

    Lettuce is one of the most versatile salad ingredients and, almost, pairs well with most fresh ingredients. Nothing says welcome summer quite like this creation by Chef Monché Muller. In case you’re struggling to find romaine lettuce, baby gem lettuce or radicchio will make great alternatives, too. And, if you can’t find pomegranate molasses, use honey or sweet molasses. Struggling with sumac? Use lemon pepper or add a little extra lemon zest.READ MORE: A Punchy, Citrusy Salad To Usher In Spring

    Grilled Romaine Lettuce, Sumac-Tahini Yoghurt and Pomegranates Salad

    Servings 4

    1 Serving Dish1 Griddle Pan
    4 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp Raspberry vinegar1 Tbsp Chopped mintSea salt and ground white pepper, to taste4 heads Romaine (cos) lettuce, halved lengthways175g Pomegranate rubies mint leaves, to garnishFor the sumac-tahini yoghurt:250 ml Greek yoghurt 1 Tbsp Minced garlic2 Tbsp Tahini paste1 Lemon, zested and juiced 1 Tbsp Sumac1 Tbsp  Pomegranate molasses salt, to taste
    Mix the oil, vinegar, mint and seasoning. Brush the dressing over the lettuce heads.Heat a griddle pan to smoking point, then place the lettuce, cut-side down, on the pan. Grill for 1–2 minutes until lightly charred.To make the yoghurt, mix all the ingredients, adding a dash of hot water if it’s too thick.Pipe or dollop the sumac-tahini yoghurt over the grilled lettuce, then sprinkle with the pomegranate rubies and garnish with mint leaves.

    READ MORE: You’re About To Get Addicted To This Rose-and-Raspberry Lemon Tart

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

    Chef Monchè Muller’s book blossomed from a casual conversation about good food and wine into a much-loved project that tells many magnificent stories about ingredients, communities, local producers and the people behind Oddo Vins et Domaines wines. The recipes, some traditional and some curated especially for this book, are an ode to some culinary regions in France, Italy, Spain and our very own South Africa.

    READ MORE: This Easy Snap Peas Side Dish Deserves A Spot On Your Braai MenuYou may also enjoy these recipes/articles… More