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    What Exactly Is NEAT And How Can It Help Me Shed Weight Without Eating Less Or Exercising More?

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    So you’ve got the healthy routine waxed. You’re doing regular workouts, you’re cooking your own healthy meals and you’ve cut back on the wine. So why are the waistbands of your leggings still digging in more than usual? The answer may lie in a concept called Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis or NEAT. And the good news is that you can totally make it work for you and even lose weight with NEAT!What Is NEAT?NEAT refers to the energy that you burn doing any activity that’s not eating, sleeping or formal exercise. This could include anything from walking the dog to fidgeting with your pen during a meeting that could have been an email.How Does It Help Me Lose Weight?You all know that weight loss (and when we talk about weight loss, we mean lowering body fat percentage) essentially comes down to the old calories in vs calories out equation: very simply put, if you burn the same or more calories than you consume, your body is less likely to store calories as fat. Well, this is where NEAT comes in.READ MORE: 10 Reasons Why You’re Lifting Weights But Not Losing Weight, According To ExpertsAccording to Dr James Levine, who first got us talking about the phenomenon and continues to study it, the difference between someone with high NEAT compared to a similar person with low NEAT can be up to 2 000 extra calories burnt per day! In a 2006 research paper, Levine observed that obese people tended to spend 2.5 more hours each day sitting than sedentary lean people. “If obese individuals were to adopt the lean ‘NEAT-o-type,’ they could potentially expend an additional 350 kcal per day,” he theorised. In other words, you could lose weight with NEAT.Why Am I Not Losing Weight When I Eat Well And Exercise?Think about your life pre-Covid. You probably walked a lot more then. At work, you’d be walking from your car or the station to your office. Maybe you even walked to work. In the office, you’d have to walk to the bathroom, the kitchen, the photocopier.Plus, you might’ve been hitting the shops more often pre-2020. Now we have all of our groceries at our fingertips thanks to Woolies Dash and Sixty60. And we’re all taking advantage of this convenience. Perhaps your life has changed and you’re not socialising as much or no longer going out dancing on a Friday night.READ MORE: Slower Walks Boost Weight Loss In Women Over 50, Recent Study Finds. Here’s WhyAll this translates into NEAT and extra calories burnt.  And that’s on top of the workouts you’re clocking. Now think of your new routine – our lives have changed pretty drastically since then with many of us no longer being in the office 24/7. Unless you’re Bruce Wayne, the daily commute around your house is not exactly a marathon. So even if you’re doing your usual daily workout, your overall activity may not be as high as it used to be.Ways To Incorporate More NEAT Into Your DayThe good news is that it’s actually pretty easy to increase your NEAT burn and potentially lose weight with NEAT. Start practising some of these habits:Keep Your Hands Busy. Get hold of a fidget spinner, Rubik’s cube or even just a piece of string that you can fiddle with while watching TV. Natural fidgeters have been shown to expend more NEAT energy than those who can sit still.

    Take Movement Breaks. Every 20 minutes, get up from where you’re sitting. Jump around, do a set of squats or just take a walk around the house.

    Embrace Inconvenience. You know how you’ve structured your home or home office so everything is conveniently within arm’s reach? Don’t do that. Rework your environment so that you’re forced to get up for things like a glass of water or a stapler.

    Stand More Often. Standing burns more energy than sitting. If you’re already spending hours sitting at your desk, don’t spend all your free time sitting on the couch. Try pacing next time you’re on the phone or standing for your next Zoom chat.Other ways to sneak NEAT into your day: Playing with the kids, walking the dog, gardening, housework. Essentially, just move. Your body will thank you. More

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      18 Running Clubs In South Africa To Kickstart Your Journey

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      As the country’s running scene continues to evolve, a notable trend has emerged: more women are lacing up their shoes and hitting the pavement. For women joining running clubs in South Africa, it goes beyond hitting a PB; it’s a testament to the power of community and empowerment that running clubs offer. With the rise of trail running and the enduring appeal of marathons like the Comrades, Two Oceans and Otter Trail Run, South Africa’s running landscape is more vibrant than ever. To prove it, we graze the surface with some of the most popular running clubs in South Africa right now. What’s stopping you?Nation-Wide Running Clubs In South AfricaBurnt Run Club

      A welcoming space for women runners of all levels. Burnt Club meets every Saturday morning throughout the summer season (October through March) and has chapters throughout the country, from Bloem and Potch to Ballito and Stellies.

      Location: Various nationwide

      Days they meet: Saturdays during summer

      Time: Mornings

      Born2Run

      This club offers a mix of socialising and expertise,  including social runs, regular time trials and access to coaches. They meet every Wednesday evening. There’s also a branch in Pretoria, East London and CPT.

      Location: Johannesburg, Pretoria, East London, Cape Town

      Days they meet: Wednesdays

      Time: Evenings

      Distances: 5km & 8km

      Nedbank Running Clubs

      You’ll find a Nedbank Running Club almost anywhere in the country, with each running on a different schedule. A perk: at major races, visit the Nedbank gazebo and meet other club members from the country and stow your bag safely for free.

      Location: Nationwide

      Days they meet: Various

      Time: Various

      Distances: Various

      READ MORE: Slower Walks Boost Weight Loss In Women Over 50, Recent Study Finds: Here’s Whyadidas Runners

      Join weekly events in different locations around the country, including team relays, roving running locations and fun activations. Find them in Durban, JHB and CPT.

      Location: Nationwide

      Days they meet: Various

      Time: Various

      Distances: Various

      Catch Me If You Can

      Calling themselves South Africa’s largest all-women running club, this crew has helped many women run together, connect and build lasting friendships. All levels, shapes and ages are welcome; activities include running, walking, hiking and trail running.

      Location: Gauteng, Cape Town

      Days they meet: Various

      Time: Various

      Distances: Various

      Run For Coffee

      An all-female running collective offering weekly runs all over the country. Every run starts at a coffee shop, where everyone gathers after to chat. They also host events regularly.

      Location: Nationwide

      Days they meet: Various

      Time: Various

      Distances: Various

      Running Clubs In JohannesburgRockies Running Club

      Welcoming walkers and runners alike, the club also has time trials, Comrades training and socials. They’re centrally located at Zoo Lake in Parkview.

      Location: Zoo Lake, Parkview

      Days they meet: Sundays

      Time: 06:00

      Distances: 16km & 40km, 5km time trial

      Thesis Run Cru

      Running for good vibes, this club meets up on the weekend to run and socialise. Something to love: they’re big on welcoming beginners, sharing expertise in nutrition and running.

      Location: Soweto

      Days they meet: Weekends

      Time: 06:00

      Distances: 5km – 25km

      Braamfie Runners

      This social crew meets on Saturday mornings and has grown into one of the largest crews in the country, catering to every level of runner. Big on socialising and running, there is no sign-up or fees required.

      Location: Braamfontein

      Days they meet: Saturdays

      Time: 06:30

      Distances: 10km

      READ MORE: Are Running Shoes Good For Walking? Here’s What To KnowRunning Clubs In GqeberhaCharlo Athletic Club

      A family-focused club, Carlo offers a community for everyday runners. With 126 members, you’re bound to make a friend!

      Location: Italian Club, Harold Road

      Distances: 5km & 8km time trials

      P-Easy Running Club

      Running, but make it easy-peasy. Tuesday mornings, find these fun-loving runners in Gqeberha chasing the sunrise and sometimes playing padel, too.

      Location: Summerstrand

      Days they meet: Tuesdays

      Time: Mornings

      Distances: 5km, 7km & 8km

      Crusaders Athletic Club

      On Mondays and Thursdays, this group runs together. Routes vary, but all are welcome, including walkers. The route is between seven to 10km.

      Location: St Georges Park

      Days they meet: Mondays & Thursdays

      Time: Evenings

      Distances: Various

      Running Clubs In DurbanSocial Runners Club

      Race-focused and fun, this club offers camaraderie in Durban and a fun, quirky presence on Insta.

      Location: Daily Dose coffee shop

      Days they meet: Fridays

      Time: Evenings

      Distances: 5km & 10km

      Durban Athletic Club

      Wanna be part of history? This is South Africa’s oldest athletic club, according to the website, founded in 1879. On a Thursday, the crew gather to run – there are three routes to choose from.

      Location: Kings Park Athletic Stadium

      Days they meet: Thursdays

      Time: Evenings

      Distances: Various

      Regent Harriers

      Originally founded as a training group for the Comrades Marathon, this crew attracts runners from all levels and meets every Tuesday and Friday in Durban North.

      Location: Durban North

      Days they meet: Tuesday and Friday

      Time: Evenings

      Distances: 10km to 30kmkm

      READ MORE: The Best 28-Day Workout Challenge To Get Stronger All Over Using Only DumbbellsRunning Clubs In Cape TownChicks Who Trail

      Like the name suggests, this crew hits the trails together – safety in numbers! Stemming from a need for a community for women to learn and challenge each other, the group meets every Thursday eve and grabs a beer after.

      Location: Atlantic Seaboard

      Days they meet: Thursdays

      Time: Evenings

      Running Late Club

      Born from the idea that you can start running at any time, any age, this supportive club offers “a place to belong”, per the website. They have a community on Strava, TikTok and Instagram.

      Location: Atlantic Seaboard

      Days they meet: Wednesdays

      Time: Evenings

      Distances: 5km & 7km

      Couch Potato Run Club

      This welcoming group aims to debunk the idea that running is a daunting experience. Instead, Couch Potato inspires and encourages members, especially beginners, and offers guidance from recovery, building fitness and confidence.

      Location: Citywide

      Days they meet: Various

      Time: Various

      Distances: 5km More

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      5 Beginner Yoga Poses To Help You Sleep Better

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      These yoga poses are beginner-friendly and all you need is an open space in your house. If you don’t have a yoga mat, place a towel down on your carpet. We recommend putting on some peaceful yoga music and flow your way to deeper sleep.Yoga Poses To Help You Sleep Better
      [embedded content]
      5 Yoga Poses To Help You Sleep Better by Amy HoppyPose 1: Forward BendTo start, inhale as you lift your hands towards the ceiling for High Mountain pose. Exhale Forward Bend, hinging from the hips (bend your knees as much as you need to). While in a Forward Bend pose, you can straighten your legs, pedalling out one at a time, stretching your hamstrings. Grab opposite elbows and hang out in a ragdoll-like pose. Sway gently from left to right before slowly coming all the way up.Benefits: Stretches the hamstrings, calves and hips while reducing anxiety, relieving stress and calming the mind. Creates a calming effect on the brain.Pose 2: Child’s PoseWith knees to the edge of the mat, toes to touch, hips towards heels, extend your arms out in front of you, lifting elbows off the mat. Place your forehead on the mat, gently rolling from left to right.Benefits: Stretches hips, thighs and ankles while reducing stress and fatigue. Gently relaxes muscles in the front of the body while softly stretching muscles at the back.Yoga Pose 3: Shoulder Stand (to Ear Pressure Pose)Begin lying down and then use your core to lift your legs up. Place your elbows firmly on the mat, hands to your bra strap line to assist with holding the lift with a straight spine. Straighten legs. Hold for one minute. When you feel ready, you can add Ear-Pressure pose to this move. Gently bend your knees and press the inside of the knee area into the ears on each side of your heading, blocking out sound.Benefits: Shoulder stand pose helps to improve circulation, calm headaches and relax the mind. Ear-Pressure pose (aka deaf man’s pose) helps calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. It also removes excess stimuli.Yoga Pose 4: Legs Up The Wall PoseAny wall surface will do. The trick is to get your bum as close to the wall as possible. It might feel uncomfortable initially, but soon your body will relax into the pose. Focus on slow, steady breath and stay in the posture for 10 minutes.Benefits: Deep relaxation, soothes swollen legs and feet, stretches hamstrings and lower back while relieving tension in the lower back (practise while experiencing period pain). This is a great pose to do before setting up for your nighttime routine as it really helps to calm the mind.Yoga Pose 5: Corpse PoseStart by lying down on the mat, feet and hands to the edges of the mat, hands facing upwards in a gesture of openness. Close your eyes and focus on your breath as you settle into a state of meditation. Try to remain as still as possible. Option 2: Bring your feet to touch and let your knees drop out towards the sides. Stay in this position for 10 minutes without moving. No fidgeting, no scratching.Benefits: Sensory stimulation and external distractions are minimised to help the body completely relax. With a grounded body, mental energy can be channelled inwards and the mind can start to explore the body from the inside. This posture increases self-awareness and introspection, which has been linked to decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression.Tips for meditatingIf you don’t have time to do all five of these, just spend five to 10 minutes with your legs up against the wall. Remember to focus on your breath and clear your mind. Use the breath in each of these postures to keep your focus on being present on the mat, aware of your body.Yoga/Meditation Cushion 1/2 Moon

      Sattva Yoga Gear Black Meditation Cushion

      Crescent meditation cushion

      When your mind starts to wander out the room, bring your attention back to your breath. When thoughts pop up, accept them and let them go. Let them pass through without attaching emotion to them and focus again on the breath.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

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      The 411 On Wall Pilates Workouts From Experts. Plus, A Go-To Wall Pilates Routine

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      Any woman on social media would know wall Pilates workouts: the trend that racked up over 22 million likes on TikTok is peppered throughout your daily scroll, purporting a slender, stronger frame using just a wall. But do wall Pilates workouts do all they claim to? WH spoke to experts for the 411.So, What Is Wall Pilates Anyway?  Simply put, it’s Pilates… with a wall. The firm object, says Pilates instructor Jordyn Stoos, “can help balance and stability for those that might need to build their strength, whilst performing a limited Pilates repertoire.” Pilates is by nature a low-impact exercise modality that focuses on core and stability while enhancing flexibility. By adding a wall (or any stable surface), Pilates becomes more accessible. “It’s a built-in guide that helps with alignment, posture, and control, making exercises more intentional and precise,” says Melissa van der Walt, a Pilates instructor.What Are The Benefits?“Wall Pilates is incredibly functional, meaning it improves strength and mobility in a way that translates to better posture, reduced back pain, and a stronger core for everyday movements,” says van der Walt. “The wall acts as a built-in resistance tool, balance aid, and alignment checker all in one—so it’s way more than just a substitute for a bench or the floor.”Wall Pilates workouts help activate your core muscles:It offers deeper core engagement, since pressing into the wall “forces your deep core muscles to activate properly, making ab work more effective,” she adds.It aligns your practiceFor everyone wanting to appear more confident, taller and slimmer, consider the wall a free tool. As a built-in guide, the wall forces proper alignment and reduces lower-back strain.It’s a boon for balance “What people often don’t realise is that balance in itself needs to be strengthened, too,” says Stoos. “I often have clients that find themselves so surprised when I ask them to do a balance exercise and they topple over!” To combat this, the wall is great for checking posture while balancing and using stabiliser muscles. Stabilisation exercises, like balancing, “helps to activate the core and strengthen the spinal stabilisers,” says Stoos.READ MORE: 7 Proven Pilates Benefits And The Best Apps To DownloadWhy Wall Pilates Workouts Might Be Right For YouYou’re older: Balance and bone density decline as you age. Wall Pilates offers a strength workout that helps improve balance and muscle strength, a key factor in bone-building.

      You’re a Pilates newbie: “It offers extra support so you’re not compensating with the wrong muscles,” says van der Walt.

      You’re post-partum: This gentle workout focuses on deep core strength, including those all-important pelvic floor muscles, which are compromised during childbirth.

      You want a challenge: No cheating when you’re up against the wall, says van der Walt. “There’s no momentum or “cheating” the movement – your muscles have to do all the work.” Plus, she adds that the extra level of resistance (I.e., pushing against the wall) forces engagement, making even simple movements more challenging.

      You need low-impact movement: If you’re recovering from an injury, wall Pilates workouts are easy on the joints but still challenge muscles.READ MORE: What You Need To Know About Doing Pilates For Weight LossCan Wall Pilates Help With Weight Loss?Weight loss is a specific balancing act that involves calories, yes, but also hormonal balance, science says. Still, movement is a great way to move the needle and wall Pilates can be part of your movement routine. For body recomposition, i.e., adding muscle tone and definition, wall Pilates can help you achieve that, says van der Walt. “It’s fantastic for toning, sculpting, and increasing muscle endurance,” she explains. “But body composition shifts come from a mix of:Progressive Resistance – Over time, you need to increase intensity (using body weight, resistance bands, or even light weights) to keep building muscle.

      Nutrition – No workout alone will change body composition without proper nutrition to support fat loss and muscle retention.

      Overall Movement & Cardio – Pilates strengthens and sculpts, but adding walking, strength training, or other movement will amplify results.”Also, remember that muscle is a key component in minimising fat stores. Per van der Walt, wall Pilates can help strengthen your core, increase muscle endurance, improve posture and support joint health and mobility. And let’s be real: those are all very worthy pursuits for overall health.Your Go-To Wall Pilates No-Equipment WorkoutFollow this simple no-equipment at-home wall Pilates workout from van der Walt to get your gains:
      [embedded content]
      READ MORE: 15 Pilates Exercises That’ll Work Your Core From Every Angle Without Any Equipment More

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      What Is GORE-TEX? A Deep Dive Into The Viral Fabric

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      Are your Salomon’s a prized possession in your wardrobe? Your Merrel essentials have to be pried out of your cold, dead hands? For anyone who loves their outdoor gear, GORE-TEX should be a stalemate in your vocab and your wardrobe.But does anyone actually know what GORE-TEX is? So, we decided to dig deep and chat with some experts to get the dirt on the viral fabric that is probably sitting in your wardrobe as we speak.What Is GORE-TEX?First of all, what is it? Well, it’s made by the team at GORE-TEX Product Technologies, who work to create innovative technologies that provide premium weather protection. The way they do this depends on the product you’re buying, but it’s either through their state-of-the-art fabric and construction designs or a unique membrane or laminate that fabric is treated in.So you’ll often find that some of your favourite outdoor or sportswear brands – like Salomon, adidas, Saucony and more – work with GORE-TEX Product Technologies to create more durable pieces that are built for the outdoors. This could be anything from sneakers and hiking boots to jackets, pants and accessories.READ MORE: Are Running Shoes Good For Walking? Here’s What To KnowHow Does It Work?Catriona Shearer from GORE-Tex Product Technologies broke down some of the more nitty gritty details for us.“The membrane has 1.4 billion pores per cm2, and each pore is 700 times larger than a vapour (or sweat) molecule – so [air] can easily escape,” she explains. “However, these pores are also 20,000 smaller than a water droplet, so water cannot get in.”The membrane is sandwiched between a face fabric and inner layer, and is used within products by their partner brands.“Lastly, the face textile is treated in the lamination process with a treatment called DWR. This is the element of the GORE-TEX Fabric that creates the beading, when water can roll easily off the surface.”Is It Sustainable?In the past, GORE-TEX has relied on the chemical known as PTFE, founder Bob Gore changed the game for outdoor gear when he had the idea to stretch it, creating a lightweight, breathable and most importantly waterproof membrane. The treatment the pieces were then coated in often contained PCFs. While these chemicals do the job well, they’re not great for the environment—they stick around for a long time and can accumulate in living things.However after a decade of production, the GORE-TEX team have developed an innovative Next Gen alternative to their previous methods of waterproofing.“The textiles used in Next Gen GORE-TEX Fabrics are recycled and/or solution dyed – which save energy and water in their production,” says Shearer. “It is the combination of the textiles and the thin, light membrane, coupled with the PFA-free DWR treatment that lower its carbon footprint.”Does It Last Forever?One of the wonderful things about GORE-TEX is their durability. The length of the products does depend on how they are used and how frequently. With the right care, cleaning and upkeep some people have claimed their waterproofing stays up to scratch for multiple years!“The decades of science, testing and development we invest – along with the holistic way in which we work with and support the brands who use our fabrics, ensure high quality and performance,” says Shearer.“As our products are built to last, consumers will also get long product life from their GORE-TEX garments, gloves or shoes. This is the most responsible thing you can do – to keep your products in use for as long as possible.”READ MORE: A Beginner’s Guide To HikingHow To Clean GORE-TEX ProductsTaking care of your GORE-TEX products are of top importance if you want to make the most of them.First of all, the brand recommends washing them pretty regularly to ensure sunscreen, body oils and other dirt and grime doesn’t impact the quality of the waterproofing.Granger’s Performance Wash

      Next you want to ensure all of your zips are zipped and drawcords are loosened before popping it in the washing machine with half a cap of a quality liquid detergent. The brand recommends Grangers Performance Wash, which is specifically for waterproof clothing. And wash it on a delicate cycle at 40°C.

      After washing, ideally you want to tumble dry your garments for 20 minutes as this helps to reactivate the DWR treatment on your pieces. You can also iron dry on a gentle setting if you don’t have a tumble dryer, or line dry if necessary.

      Just make sure not to tumble dry any GORE-TEX SHAKEDRY™ garments, as they work differently for waterproofing.Shop WH’s Favourite Pieces That Feature GORE-TEXThink of any of your favourite apparel and outdoor gear, you can bet they work with GORE-TEX. Below are some of our very favourite pieces from our favourite brands for you to shop if you want to test something new out and hit the great outdoors.Salomon XA Pro 3D V9 GORE-TEX®

      Nike ACG ‘Chena Vortex’

      The North Face OFFTRAIL GORE-TEX®

      Salomon Outline 2.5L GORE-TEX®

      HOKA Challenger 7 GORE-TEX

      Merrell Moab Speed GORE-TEX®

      This article by Isabelle Knevett was originally published on Women’s Health UK – additional reporting and products added by the Women’s Health SA team. 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

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      The Best New ASICS Running Shoes For Every Kind Of Runner

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      ASICS has long been a go-to for runners, delivering a balance of comfort, stability and performance. Their latest line-up continues to push the boundaries with advanced cushioning, energy return and breathability. From speed-focused 5Ks to marathon training and daily mileage, there’s a model built to support every stride.Here’s a breakdown of three top picks designed for different running needs.For Energised Mid-Range RunsASICS NOVABLAST™ 5If your go-to distances are around 5K to 10K, the NOVABLAST™ 5 is built to keep your stride feeling light and bouncy. The redesigned midsole and outsole deliver an ultra-responsive ride, making every step feel effortless.What’s New?FF BLAST™ MAX foam cushioning – Now 8.5% bouncier than the previous model for extra energy return.

      Refined midsole geometry – Designed to propel you forward with every step.

      Engineered mesh upper – A snug, breathable fit that keeps your feet cool and comfortable.“We approached the design and structure of the NOVABLAST™ 5 shoe in a way that would allow the FF BLAST™ MAX to show its full potential for the consumer,” said Yosuke Atarashi, Senior Designer of Footwear at ASICS and lead designer of the NOVABLAST™ 5 shoe. “Visually, we wanted the design to mimic the wearer’s dynamic experience and underfoot feeling as they run in this latest version of the NOVABLAST™ line.”READ MORE: 34 Running Tips Every Beginner Needs To KnowFor Maximum Comfort On Long RunsASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 27The GEL-NIMBUS™ 27 is designed for long-distance comfort, offering soft cushioning and breathable materials to keep your feet feeling fresh mile after mile.Upgraded Features Include:Engineered Jacquard Mesh Upper – A lighter, more breathable upgrade from the previous knit upper.

      Extra 2mm of FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning – Made from 24% bio-based materials for enhanced comfort without added weight.“With the introduction of the GEL-NIMBUS™ 27 shoe, we’ve made significant advancements in comfort. This super comfortable shoe is designed to calm the runner’s body and mind with cloud-like cushioning that goes the distance. Runners will experience an unprecedented level of comfort. I firmly believe that the GEL-NIMBUS™ 27 shoe offers our most comfortable run yet,” says Laura Bolgen, Senior Manager of Global Product Line at ASICS.READ MORE: Are Running Shoes Good For Walking? Here’s What To KnowFor Everyday TrainingASICS GEL-CUMULUS 27If you need a reliable all-rounder, the GEL-CUMULUS™ 27 delivers. Designed for versatility, this neutral running shoe is a solid choice for everything from easy runs to tempo sessions.New and improved features include:Updated engineered mesh upper – Soft, breathable and adaptive for a secure fit.

      PureGEL™ technology – Enhanced shock absorption for smooth landings.

      FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning – Lightweight, plush comfort that keeps you moving.Shop The LookASICS NOVABLAST™ 5

      ASICS GEL-NIMBUS™ 27

      ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 27

      Shop the full ASICS range here. **WH Partnership More

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      OTG Active Unveils The Zeal Rib Collection

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      OTG Active, the pioneering activewear brand designed for women on the move, is proud to launch the latest innovation – the Zeal Rib Collection. Designed to effortlessly blend performance, comfort and style, this versatile collection is a timeless staple that transitions seamlessly from high-intensity workouts to everyday life. From gym sessions to running errands or enjoying a coffee with friends, this collection offers the perfect balance of support and flexibility.Tech That Moves With YouThe Zeal Rib Collection reflects OTG Active’s commitment to creating activewear that enhances a dynamic lifestyle, with innovation and functionality at its core. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to elevate your fitness journey, offering not just great looks but exceptional performance. The collection’s standout feature is its unique ribbed fabric that is buttery soft to the touch, resistant to wrinkling, and designed to maintain its shape even after multiple wears. This ensures that the collection offers not only a flattering fit but long-lasting durability.The ribbed fabric provides gentle compression, which offers support for muscles during movement, making it an ideal choice for high-intensity workouts. Additionally, the fabric’s four-way stretch gives wearers complete freedom of movement, whether performing challenging exercises or navigating your day. This collection is designed with breathability in mind, the fabric promotes airflow to keep you cool during sweat-inducing activities, while moisture-wicking technology ensures you stay dry no matter how demanding the day gets.Shop The LookOTG Zeal Rib Tank (Chalk)

      OTG Zeal Rib Tank (Black)

      OTG Zeal Rib 7 Inch Short Tight

      OTG Zeal Rib Jacket (Black)

      OTG Zeal Rib Jacket (Chalk)

      OTG Zeal Rib Fit & Flare Pant

      Zeal Rib 7/8 Tight

      Zeal Rib Long Gym Tight

      Zeal Rib 1/4 Zip Long Sleeve Top

      Versatile Styles For Every BodyFrom flattering crops and lightweight tanks to fitted jackets that offer the perfect balance of warmth and mobility, the collection includes a range of pieces designed for maximum versatility. OTG Active understands that every woman is unique, so the Zeal Rib Collection includes a variety of styles and fits to suit different body types and preferences. For those who prefer a more streamlined look, the collection includes options such as 5-inch and 7-inch shorts, 7/8-length tights, and full-length tights, all designed to be squat-proof and offer ultimate comfort. These tights are crafted with flat-locked seams to prevent chafing, ensuring a smooth and irritation-free fit.For added convenience, functional details such as side drop-in pockets provide ample storage for your phone, keys, or other small essentials while on the move. The collection also features a choice between crossover or straight high-rise waistbands, allowing you to customise your fit for comfort and style. These thoughtful design elements ensure that each piece is not only functional but also designed to elevate your everyday activewear experience.Effortless StylingAvailable in a sophisticated palette including black, navy, coffee, chalk, pink, midnight plum, and elemental blue, the Zeal Rib Collection encourages effortless mix-and-match styling. The carefully chosen colours complement a wide range of personal styles, making it easy to incorporate the collection into your existing wardrobe. With inclusive sizing from XS to XXXL, OTG Active ensures that every woman, regardless of shape or size, can find her perfect fit and feel confident in motion.A Brand Rooted In MovementFounded in Cape Town, OTG Active embodies a philosophy of movement, confidence, and empowerment. The brand’s vision is to create activewear that supports women in living their best, most active lives. By blending global trends with real-world performance, OTG Active continues to redefine what it means to look and feel good – whether you’re at the gym, on a hike, or enjoying a casual day out.The collection’s combination of performance, comfort, and style makes it a must-have for any woman looking to elevate her activewear wardrobe. From running errands to heading to a yoga class or meeting friends for coffee, each piece is designed to move with you while delivering uncompromising comfort and a sleek, elevated aesthetic.Launch Recap“The energy was incredible, and being an all-women event made it even more inspiring. Everywhere you looked, it was a sea of stunning OTG activewear – such a fun way to introduce the new range. The material is thin and light but still cinches in the tummy area. The workout was tough and really hit the booty… not that I was complaining! Overall, such a vibrant and energising event,” says Pia Hammond, Creative Director Visit any Sportsmans Warehouse store nationwide to shop the Zeal Rib Collection or check out otgactive.com for an easy online shopping experience.**WH Partnership More

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      Garmin’s Newest Smartwatch Is Built for Outdoor Junkies Like You

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      There’s a reason why people are obsessed with the Garmin Instinct 3 – it’s durable, packed with smart features, and tough enough to handle everything from gruelling workouts to weeks-long camping and hiking trips. If your idea of a good time includes getting outdoors, embracing nature and pushing your limits, the Garmin Instinct 3 is exactly what your adventure kit needs. Whether you’re trail running, hiking, or exploring the wilderness, this rugged smartwatch has all the tools to keep up with your active lifestyle.
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      Durability Meets StyleThe Instinct 3 is designed to withstand the toughest conditions. With a metal-reinforced bezel, the Instinct 3 can handle whatever comes your way.Be you. Know you.Know your body better with health monitoring features. Track your heart rate, stress levels, sleep, and even your menstrual cycle for a holistic view of your health.  Plus, with the Body Battery™ energy monitoring, you’ll know when it’s time to push forward or take a well-deserved rest.READ MORE: Love Stylish Tech? You’ll Obsess Over Garmin’s Lily 2 Active Built for Adventure, Powered for LongevityNo matter how long your adventures last, the Instinct 3 has the power to keep up. With up to 28 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, you can focus on exploring without constantly worrying about charging. Leave the charger at home. In smartwatch mode, get up to 24 days of battery life with an AMOLED display or unlimited battery life with a solar charging lens.Stay Safe, Stay ConnectedEven in the wild, the Instinct 3 keeps you connected with smart notifications and safety features like incident detection. You’ll always know that help is just a tap away, wherever your adventure leads.Instinct 3 – 45 mm, AMOLEDBlack with black band

      Instinct 3 – 45 mm, AMOLEDNeotropic with Neotropic Band

      Instinct 3 – 50 mm, SolarBlack with Charcoal Band

      **WH Partnership More

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      in fitness and body

      Are Running Shoes Good For Walking? Here’s What To Know

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      Everywhere you look, someone is raving about walking on an under-desk treadmill or is marathon training. The hype is real, and all you need is a good pair of shoes. However, choosing the right option can be a tedious task.Not all shoes on the market are a one-size-fits-all for everyone when racking up kilometres. Some styles should only be used for performance, while many running and walking kicks can spill into lifestyle wear for their incredible comfort, fit, durability and (our favourite reason) gorpcore vibe. But, of course, each shoe is unique and can serve a different purpose. Before getting technical, step one is making sure your footwear suits your activity and intensity, which begs the question: Are walking shoes and running shoes able to sustain the same impact and movement?“A shoe designed for running often has more cushion because the impact forces from running are much greater than the impact forces from walking,” says Milica McDowell. “This isn’t necessary for walking and reduces your feel of the ground, which is problematic for those with any balance issues or previous falls.”Having the proper shoes is important to help prevent injury. To help you make a decision, we enlisted the help of physical therapists and applied our experience as longtime runners and power walkers to examine if running shoes are good for walking. Here’s what you need to know.Is it okay to wear running shoes for walking?Running shoes can be appropriate for walking, but with a few caveats: If they’re not designed for racing, for trails, or have carbon fiber plates wedged in the sole (this provides massive bounce and speed during runs). “Many times they have a very tight fit for higher performance, a narrow toe box, or are highly supported in the arch, which are features a lifestyle walker does not need,” says McDowell.Many of today’s models are designed with a rockered sole, which is meant to propel you forward. It’s only essential for trying to gain speed, and McDowell agrees “due to the slower cadence and pace of walking and the different contact of the two patterns.” For context, cadence is how many steps you take per minute, while pace is how fast you’re going per kilometre.The maximum cushioning of most running shoes can also be problematic for walkers because it can lead to instability. As Lalitha McSorley, a physiotherapist notes, the “shoe may not support the natural heel-to-toe stride of walking.”As much as I like to reserve my running shoes for training, I do have a few on hand that I strictly use for walking because I love how they feel on my feet. Many models offer adequate support and cushioning that mimics a cradling sensation, which is beneficial when walking high mileage. When seeking a walking shoe, McDowell recommends these four features: a wide toe box, a thin and flexible sole, a low(er) cushion and less stack height, which can all be found in running shoes depending on the model.Is it okay to use walking shoes for running?Walking shoes are generally not ideal for running, given their lack of cushioning. Unlike running shoes, they’re not designed to spare your joints from the impact of pounding pavement. As someone who has had multiple knee and hip injuries from running, I advise against it.“I often tell my patients that running is really high impact – think of the force of your entire body weight coming through your feet when you jump. Now add that every time your foot strikes the ground when you are running,” says McSorley.”This is why running shoes often have extra cushioning in the heel and a more flexible toe box.” Specifically, maximum cushioned shoes are super popular among runners, such as the Hoka Bondi 9. As for flexibility, both walking and running shoes should have at least some for added comfort.READ MORE: 6 Trainer Trends Set To Take Over In 2025 Is there a difference between a running shoe and a walking shoe?While some running shoes can double as walking shoes with a few exceptions, cushioning, heel-to-toe drop, stack height, flexibility and arch support are all key differences that are important when considering the best shoe for you.CushioningGenerally speaking, running shoes are high-cushioned to absorb impact and reduce strain when striking the ground while walking shoes should have less to provide more ground feel for increased stability. The cushioning types in walking and running shoes are typically the same, it’s just the amount that differs. EVA foam is super common and is extremely light, durable and plush for proper shock absorption.Heel-To-Toe DropThe heel-to-toe drop is the difference in cushion height between the heel and forefoot. For runners who land with their heels first, they would benefit from a higher drop (10 to 12 millimetres). Specifically for running, lower drops cause more impact on the ankles, while higher drops put more stress on the knees and hips. To distribute impact evenly, five to six millimetres is the sweet spot for mid-foot strikers. A drop between four to eight millimetres is optimal for walking depending on the support needed and your foot strike.Stack HeightStack height means the amount of foam or material between your feet and the ground. For a walking shoe, there should be less stack height in the heel and even cushioning throughout to prevent instability – aim for at least 30 millimeters to absorb impact. For running, it largely depends on your needs. Many shoes start as low as 20 millimetres, while maximum cushioned styles can reach up to 50.READ MORE: How Often To Replace Walking Shoes, According To DoctorsFlexibilityBoth running and walking shoes should have flexibility, but the amount is a personal preference and depends on needs specific to your feet. For example, those with flat feet would benefit from a stiffer, less flexible shoe for added stability when running and walking. A stiffer shoe is also popular for racing or speed training given its responsiveness, but we prefer a balance of flexibility and firmness to maintain comfort, such as the On Cloudmonster 2. Pay attention to your running gait when wearing both shoes to find what works best for your feet.Arch Support“Walking shoes are typically designed to be more rigid in the arch [firm] and offer better heel-to-toe support, which can help improve proper walking posture and reduce stress on your knees, hips and lower back,” says McSorley.As for running shoes, it greatly depends on your feet and running gait. For example, those who overpronate (have collapsing arches) benefit from firm support for stability, while those with neutral gaits or underpronators benefit from more cushioning in the arch.Overall, it’s important to determine your arch type (flat, medium and high) before choosing a walking or running shoe. An easy way to do this is by looking at your arch from the side to see how inverted it is. Another simple test is to dip your foot in water and step onto a piece of paper. If you see your entire foot, then you have flat feet. A high arch will barely be visible, while a normal arch will show half your foot.Does walking break in running shoes?Experienced runners often employ a strategy to break in new running shoes. Before taking new running shoes for a spin, wear them around the house. This allows you to assess if the fit is optimal to avoid blisters – a runner’s worst nightmare. For individuals with specific foot conditions, like bunions, this initial wear test is crucial for determining if the shoe’s width and fabric are suitable.  When beginning to run in a new pair, it’s advisable to start with shorter distances to allow the shoes to mold to the feet and minimise the risk of injury.READ MORE: Hettie’s Story Proves It’s Never Too Late To Start MovingWhat are our favourite walking and running shoes?Our editors have been testing the best walking and running shoes for years, so we have some stellar recommendations based on hundreds of kilometres and steps logged. Plus, a few new ones on the market to check out:Everyday Walking Shoe

      Hoka Mach 6

      All-Rounder Running Shoe

      On Cloudeclipse

      Wide Running Shoes

      Fresh Foam X 1080 v14

      Long-Distance Running Shoes

      Brooks Glycerin GTS 22

      Stability Running Shoes

      PUMA ForeverRun NITRO™ 2

      Arch Support Walking Shoe

      HOKA Clifton 9

      Meet The ExpertsThis article by Nicolette Accardi was originally published on Women’s Health US – additional reporting and products added by the Women’s Health SA team.  More