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      The Best Running Shoes For 5k, 10k And 21k

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      You’ve started your running journey and you’ve just signed up for a new race when it hits you: do you have the best running shoes for that distance? Right now, they might be feeling a little thin after all that training.

      Believe it or not, the right shoe for your distance does more than get you a new PB. Wearing the right shoes can prevent injury, since the best running shoes for you supports your unique gait, offers the right cushioning and can handle the lengths you want to go. When picking a shoe, think about your distance, terrain and the technical aspects of the shoe. We’ve got all that info right here.

      Here, we’ve rounded up top trainers for different distances, and are dishing intel on how to know if the shoe you like is right for that distance.

      The Best Running Shoes For A 5K

      Whether you’re just starting out (good for you!) or want to speed up your 5K with speed drills and hill sprints, look for a shoe with less height but sufficient cushioning since this supports your weight but also allows you to run more naturally. These new shoes have stacked soles but are light and built with speed in mind.

      On Cloudsurfer 7

      Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Moderate | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 399  | Weight: 205g

      A pronounced forefoot rocker forces your foot onward with each strike, propelling you forward. As your feet hit the ground, the CloudTec Phase® midsole collapses in sequence, creating a smooth roll from heel to toe. They’ve also kept the environment in mind: their dyeing process requires 90% less water and the total recycled content is 30%.

      PUMA Deviate NITRO™ 3

      Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 799  | Weight: 236g

      Made for everyday runs with extra oomph, this shoe features PWRPLATE technology that stabilises the midsole but also allows your foot to be pushed forward when your foot touches the ground. The cushioning is made from NITRO™ foam, a nitrogen-injected foam that adds a bouncy response to each strike. More than that, for a shoe with a 10mm drop, it feels incredibly stable.

      HOKA Rocket X 2

      Heel drop: 5mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 250  | Weight: 193g

      HOKA has redone their propulsion carbon fibre plate and sandwiched it between two responsive layers of foam. You’ll notice a reduced drop at the heel with a chunky support in the midsole. They’ve purposefully put the foam in strategic zones so you get the support where it’s needed.

      Reebok Floatzig 1

      Heel drop: 6mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 799  | Weight: 277g

      This incredibly popular shoe makes for a springy, fast run. The lightweight foam is sectioned off, making it more flexible when your feet curve while running. A full-length carbon rubber creates a firm outsole, with some extra cushioning in the midsole. This is an excellent option if you’re new to running and it’s specifically designed to get people pounding the pavement. Plus, it’s a great price.

      READ MORE: The 8 Greatest Smartwatches And Trackers To Elevate Your Health and Fitness

      The Best Running Shoes For A 10K

      Now that you’re logging longer distances, you’ll need a shoe with a bit more cushioning and extra durability. Try and find a light shoe – you’ll reduce significant energy when you’re not dragging your shoes along.

      Under Armour Infinite Pro Breeze

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral/Supination | Price: R3 499  | Weight: 326g

      This shoe is light and springy, making for a fun run. As you log longer distances, the breathable upper is a welcome feature, as is the 3D-moulded sock liner that cradles your foot for comfort. UA HOVR™+ cushioning reduces impact, returns energy & helps propel you forward. The outsole is made to handle things in the long run.

      Nike Zoom Fly 5

      Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral/Pronation | Price: R3 500  | Weight: 242g

      A nice, stacked heel ensures you’re supported through a 10km run and beyond. A carbon-fibre plate sits inside the shoe, offering extra propulsion. They’ve reworked the foam in the midsole, making it lighter but also more responsive. If you’re a pronator, this might work for you: the forefoot and heel have wider bases for more stability and the banana-like shape raises to create a healthy arch.

      Hoka Cielo X1

      Heel drop: 7mm | Cushion: Firm | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 750  | Weight: 264g

      Yes, it’s a stable foam that feels closer to the ground, but this goes the distance with speed. The resilient two layers of PEBA midsole provide a bouncy feel with energy return. Between those layers sits a winged carbon fibre plate that widens the surface area on the rebound. The rocker shape creates constant forward propulsion with every step.

      Saucony Ride 17

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 500  | Weight: 250g

      For soft, plush rides, this shoe might be your fave. The PWRRUN+ foam, their softest-feeling foam that’s plush and springy, is paired with higher sidewalls to provide extra stability. The upper is a breathable mesh, which is important for long runs and the outsole is durable and protective. It’s also vegan and contains recycled materials.

      READ MORE: 5 Signs You’ve Bought The Wrong Running Shoes

      The Best Running Shoes For 21k+

      For 21km runs, personalised comfort is the name of the game. At this stage, you’ll know what kind of cushioning you like and the stability you need. Nonetheless, a long-distance running shoe should carry you through race training and all 21K races going forward, so look for durable outsoles and reinforced uppers.

      adidas Adizero Boston 12 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

      Heel drop: 7mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 999  | Weight: 216g

      This shoe, created especially for the 2024 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, sits at a very reasonable price point while adding vooma to your runs. The ultra-light mesh upper guarantees breathability, while the Lightstrike Pro cushioning feels light and responsive underfoot. As per usual, adidas uses a Continental™ Rubber outsole, which ensures grip in all conditions and is very durable. It features at least 20% recycled materials. 

      New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4

      Heel drop: 4mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 399  | Weight: 188g

      Save this one for race day when you’re chasing a new PB. The thick, soft heel keeps every strike ultra cushioned and a thinner, snappier carbon fibre plate gives you a springy energy return. It’s also got that rocker feel that transitions from heel to toe very naturally. And, it’s incredibly light.

      Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 PLATINUM

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R4 000  | Weight: 262g

      This shoe, made for long-distance runs, offers a lightweight ride that feels soft but remains durable. To reduce the impact of running on your joints, Asics uses their GEL™ Technology in the front and rear. They’ve added in an improved midfoot, a knitted upper that’s supportive inside. For those looking for a supportive shoe, this one has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance – meaning it’s good for your feet.

      Brooks Ghost 16

      Heel drop: 12mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 050  | Weight: 241g

      Despite the thick sole, you’ll find this shoe to feel incredibly light, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole, which cushions comfortably. With a spacious toebox for wider feet and a durable outsole using recycled silica, this would last for a variety of distances. The wider toebox is also supported by the wider soles at the forefoot, which provides good stability.

      READ MORE: Tried & Tested: New Running Shoes From Asics, PUMA, Salomon & Under Armour

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

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      6 Running Pains — And How To Treat Them So They Never Come Back

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      Got some aches and pains from running? Here’s how to determine just what damage you’ve done…

      As any runner knows, running is a lifestyle. Unfortunately, injuries have been known to sideline as many as 50 percent of runners each year, per studies. That’s a whole bunch of unhappy people… That’s why we’ve sourced the ultimate guide to your ache or pain, so you can remedy it the right way – and ensure it doesn’t return to haunt you the next time you hit the trail or the streets.

      When is running pain a problem?

      Some pain is normal when you first start running (remember those first few weeks, guys?), but look out for things that change how you move, says sports doctor and marathon-runner, Dr Jordan Metzl. “If you’re running differently because your knees or hamstrings hurt, have it checked out,” he advises.

      And see your doctor if you have running pains that lasts longer than a few days or keeps you up at night – especially if you spot it on this chart of common culprits. From runner’s knee (or the more scientific patellofemoral pain syndrome, a soreness under your kneecap) to shin splints, iliotibial band syndrome (a lesser-known syndrome that involves pain on the outside of the knee), good old plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis and the dreaded stress fracture, we’ve got you covered.

      Common Running Pains And Treatments

      1. Runner’s Knee

      Spot it: Soreness under your kneecapLikely culprit: Weak or inflexible hips or quadsPrevent it: Strength-train twice a week; foam-roll your hips and thighs.Treat it: Ice for 15 minutes post-run; take ibuprofen or another anti-inflammatory.

      READ MORE: The Beginners Guide To Foam Rolling Correctly

      2. Shin Splints

      Spot it: Achy pain in the lower legs, usually the inside.Likely culprit: Too much training too soon – or a quirk in your body structure – overloads your bones and muscles.Prevent it: Build up slowly; focus on a quick turnover or cadence (180 steps per minute).Treat it: Cross-train and ice. More stable shoes may prevent inward rolling. NB: see a physiotherapist if you have pain in the front of your shinbone.

      3. ITBS

      Spot it: Pain on the outside of your knee soon after starting a run.Likely culprit: Inflammation of the thick band of connective tissue that runs from your hip to just below your knee.Prevent it: Stabilise your hips by training your core and butt.Treat it: Foam-rolling just above your knee for three minutes on each side daily. NB: Visible swelling or a clicking sound.

      READ MORE: Sculpt A Great Butt With This Home Booty Workout

      4. Plantar Fasciitis

      Spot it: Heel pain, notably first thing in the morning.Likely culprit: Connective-tissue inflammation on the bottom of your foot.Prevent it: Foam-roll your calves; strengthen your feet by wearing less supportive shoes when not running.Treat it: Ice; use a golf or tennis ball to massage the bottom of your foot.

      5. Achilles Tendinitis

      Spot it: Ache or pain on the tendon behind your ankle.Likely culprit: Tight calves pull on the tendon.Prevent it: Foam-roll your calves; strengthen them with eccentric raises (stand on a step or curb, then lift and lower your heels).Treat it: Cross-train, ice and anti-inflammatories. NB: crunchiness or a lump.

      READ MORE: The Only Half-Marathon Training Plan You Need Per Run Coaches

      6. Stress fracture

      Spot it: Pain in the lower leg, foot, shin, or groin that doesn’t decrease.Likely culprit: Stress leads to a hairline bone break.Prevent it: Build up slowly; make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D.Treat it: NB always see a doctor for a fracture.

      New to running? Check out this strength and cross-training workout to improve your running. Plus, 18 new running shoes to help you run faster and further. More

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      Sculpt A Great Butt With This Home Booty Workout

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      There are many reasons to do this home booty workout: sitting all day? You’ll need this. Chasing a new PB? This booty workout is for you. Want to grow those glutes? Right this way! And it matters more than aesthetics: a stronger butt creates more stability and lessens back pain. In short, your booty was made for so much more than sitting on the couch.

      Why Sculpting A Great Butt Matters

      Did you know your glutes are the biggest muscles in your body? That means keeping them firm and toned doesn’t just look great in jeans, it also spikes your overall fat burn. What’s more, having strong, capable glutes will help you do pretty much everything better, from walking up stairs to running a faster 10-kay. This booty workout by trainer Angelique van der Linde will help you sculpt your booty and boost your mood. Sign. Us. Up.

      How To Do This Home Booty Workout

      The workout is divided into two stations, each comprising three strength moves and a cardio finisher. You’ll spend three rounds at each station.

      Do station 1 as a circuit, moving directly from one move to the next.

      Once you’ve done all three moves at station 1, end the round with the cardio kicker, then start at the top again.

      You’ll notice the number of reps decreases with each round. Once you’ve done all three rounds of station 1, move on to station 2, following the same pattern. Get ready to feel that booty burn!

      You’ll need: A broom; 5L water bottle or large protein tub

      READ MORE: “How I Went From Being A Party Girl To A Fitness Fanatic – And Lost 31kg”

      Booty-Building Tips

      Want to up the ante? How you structure your workout can make a difference. For extra burn, alternate between slow, weighted sets and high-tempo bodyweight sets. So you’ll do one set with weights, performing the number of reps indicated slowly and focusing on creating a strong mind-muscle connection. Then, on the next set,  drop the weights, up the tempo and increase the reps, doing as many as you can with good form.

      The Home Booty Workout

      [embedded content]

      READ MORE: 6 Workout Moves You Can Actually Do With Your Dog

      Station 1

      REPS: 15, 12, 10 CARDIO KICKER: 30 Mountain Climbers

      1A: Broom Squat

      You can make this move more challenging by hanging weights off the ends of your broom, like identical water bottles. Just be sure to secure them properly!

      1B: Squat With Water Bottle Overhead

      If 5 litres of water is too heavy, drink (or empty) some of the water until your bottle reaches a comfortable weight. You know what we say in fitness: Hydration, hydration, hydration!

      1C: Plié Squat

      You’ll need your water bottle for this one again. Make sure your feet are turned outwards and squeeze that booty!

      Next up:

      Add the cardio finisher, then repeat the circuit until you’ve completed three rounds. Then, move on to Station 2.

      READ MORE: What You Really Need To Know About Running For Weight Loss, According To Experts

      Station 2

      REPS: 15, 12, 10 CARDIO KICKER: 30 Skips or Star Jumps

      2A: Broom Alternating Lunges

      No need to power through these at pace. Move with control and focus on your body alignment. You’re aiming for a ninety-degree angle as you sink into your lunge. Too shallow and you won’t reap the booty benefits; knee too far forward and you’ll put pressure on the joint.

       2B: Single-leg Deadlift

      Keep toppling over? Tighten your tummy, squeeze your glutes and plant your standing leg. You should feel both butt cheeks switching on. This will help your balance and boost your burn as well!

      2C: Lateral Leg Raise

      This will hit your booty from the sides to round out your results. If you experience knee pain or you struggle with squats, strengthening the muscles on your outer thighs might help.

      Next up:

      Add the cardio finisher, then repeat the circuit until you’ve completed three rounds. And you’re done!

      Bookmark these workouts next: More

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      7 Useful Mind Hacks To Overcome Tough Runs

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      Reaching the end of a long run and seeing that you outdid your last pace and set a new PB feels like glory. It’s everything that warrants an Insta Story to let the world know of the day’s great feat. The reality? Not every race feels like you’re flying through it, with every song in your playlist egging you on. Sometimes, pushing through to overcome tough runs is… tough.

      Do we ever talk about the gruelling moments in the run? That moment when you’ve only hit 600m, but you already know it’s going to be a difficult one? Or that moment when you’re 2km from completing your goal, but it feels like torture to continue? 

      For many of us, those moments can be too excruciating and end not only that one run but the motivation to try again tomorrow. But what if you could fight through those moments, overcome tough runs and come out even more victorious at the finish line? At the end of the day, your ability to push past the pain is an integral part of your running life. 

      Here we’ll go through some of the most effective strategies to help you overcome tough runs. 

      Believe in your pain threshold 

      If you believe that you can push past the bouts of muscle pain throughout your run, then you’re already one step ahead. This is according to a study done by researchers at the University of Illinois. The study found that athletes who believed they could push through leg muscle pain did better than those who did not.

      Remember your why

      Sports psychologists Noel Brick and Stuart Holliday wrote a new book, specifically looking at ways to make running more enjoyable. Their first tip? Decide why you’re doing it. With motivation, things are far more likely to get done. “We know that those who have meaningful reasons for running are more likely to maintain running longer term and get through those challenging experiences when running can feel hard, unpleasant, and not particularly enjoyable,” Brick told Newsweek.

      READ MORE: What You Really Need To Know About Running For Weight Loss, According To Experts

      Have a mantra 

      Numerous studies have found that repeating mantras can relieve stress and do wonders for calming the mind. One study concluded that silently repeating one word to yourself brings you peace of mind. This type of positive affirmation is important for any run – particularly a painful one. Repeating the mantra is also a good way to keep yourself distracted so that your focus is not only on muscle pain. 

      Create a power playlist 

      We all know that listening to music while exercising changes everything! But not every song on your Spotify might work well for your routine, so shuffling isn’t the answer. It’s important to take the time and curate a playlist of your power songs. These are the songs that you know always keep you going. It’s also important to try identify one particular power song that can get you through the extremely tough moments. 

      A 2017 study looked at the effect of music tempo on exercise performance among young adults and found that there was an increase in total duration of exercise and heart rate when fast and loud music was played. 

      “Motivation by music can lead to an increase in exercise duration, which is a stress alleviator in young people,” the study says. “Nevertheless, the importance and beneficial effect of music on health cannot be underestimated.” 

      READ MORE: 18 New Running Shoes To Help You Run Faster And Farther In 2024

      If you can overcome a tough run, you can overcome anything

      One of the many wonders of sport is its ability to create grit and mental fortitude that inevitably impacts other areas of your life. The discipline of forging ahead, even when you’d much rather curl up in a ball, spills over into work, relationships and everything else. Remind yourself of this when the going gets tough.

      Focus on the moment

      It’s true: running can become meditation. That’s because by focusing on every step, every breath, the feeling of moving through the air – and nothing else, becomes meditative and reaps benefits. In one study, cyclists who did seven weeks of mindfulness training had changed brain patterns, making them better able to adapt to stress.

      The pain is not forever (if it’s not an injury)

      One thing that can help you get through a tough moment in a run is realising that that’s all it is: a tough moment. It’s not going to hurt forever. It will come and go and each step forward you’re taking is bringing you closer to the finish line. 

      Know when to stop

      Not every difficult moment is an opportunity to fight through – sometimes you have to stop or you could run the risk of getting a serious injury. Here are quick signs that you should never ignore:

      Chest pain 

      Limping 

      Vomiting 

      Diarrhoea 

      Sharp and sudden pain 

      If you experience any of these on your run, stop and get professional medical help.

      READ MORE: Can Wearing Wrist Weights On A Walk Really Tone Your Arms? More

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      Effortless Running FTW With The New Cloudsurfer Next

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      Launch yourself into running with the Cloudsurfer Next. With all-new CloudTec Phase® cushioning, you’ll experience an effortless glide that makes every run feel like a breeze. Plus, the pronounced forefoot rocker is here to give your stride a powerful boost. Comfort? Check. Energy return? Double check.

      The ‘Smooth Operator’ Of Running

      As your feet hit the ground, the CloudTec Phase® midsole collapses in sequence, creating a smooth roll from heel to toe. It’s like running on clouds. The easy step-in design accommodates a wider range of foot shapes, so you’re good to go from the moment you lace up. And when it’s time to push off, the bouncy Helion™ superfoam gives you that extra kick. Every step feels effortless, yet dynamic.

      Looks Fast, Feels Fast

      The Cloudsurfer Next’s updated forefoot rocker pushes power to the front. Built for daily running, it’s light, cushioned and responsive. And feels fast too. Combined with Cloudsurfer cushioning for an effortless feeling, put simply, it makes faster running feel easier. Inspired by the design of our race-day shoes (Silhouette inspired by our pinnacle race-day shoes) the engineered woven upper provides a seamless fit.

      READ MORE: Start Strong With On Running SA

      Next Level Comfort

      Modelled on the top race-day shoes, the updated Cloudsurfer Next upper is engineered ultralight. Highly breathable, its woven mesh hugs your feet for a comfortable and secure ride. As you pick up pace, rubber pads on the outsole grip the road.

      Explore the world of effortless and dynamic running with the Cloudsurfer Next. To learn more about their shoes and apparel, visit tifosisports.co.za and join the conversations on Facebook and Instagram.

      **WH Partnership More

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      5 Signs You’ve Bought The Wrong Running Shoes

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      Raise your hand if you’ve been a victim of this? We’ve all done it, promise. Running shoes should not be chosen based on colour, sale price or even the size you think you are (you’re generally half a size bigger). If you happen to have bought the wrong running shoes, don’t keep wearing them! You will only end up hurting yourself and “hate running”. Here’s how to know when to let the wrong shoes go…

      1. You have to keep adjusting your running shoes

      Look, running never feels amazing for the first couple kms. Your body takes a bit of time to warm up and find its rhythm. However, if you have to keep adjusting the shoe, retying the laces and in general trying to make the shoe feel “more comfortable” that is not ideal. If any part of your foot goes numb or there is chafing or if you develop “sore spots” the shoe most likely does not fit you the way it should.

      2. Your running shoes never “break in”

      There’s a theory that new running shoes need to be broken in. The truth is, running shoes are not like your sleek new stilettos. And you should not be okay with constant blistering. Your running shoes should be comfortable right away! However, they will be the most comfortable two to three weeks into owning them. That’s when the cushioning begins to respond and adapt to your foot strike pattern. The upper will also start to fit and flex to your foot.

      READ MORE: 18 New Running Shoes To Help You Run Faster And Farther In 2024

      3. There’s fraying on the inside heel

      Early breakdown of the heel is an example of wearing the wrong size shoe. For example, your ankle keeps pushing out and causes friction on the run. You can try correct this by retying your shoelaces to provide greater support, preventing the heel and ankle from “escaping the shoe”.

      4. Side wear and tear on your running shoes

      If your shoe sole is still in great/newish condition, but the sides of the shoes start wearing through, it could mean you’re wearing the wrong size shoe. Often we measure by length, but width is also important and there are certain shoes better suited to wider or more narrow feet.

      5. Black toenails

      You should not be getting a black toenail or losing toenails for any distance under a marathon (even then, not cool).

      What causes black toenails? When the tip of the nail bed repeatedly interacts with the front wall or top of the shoe it causes bruising. This leads to blistering and the nail lifting off the bed.

      READ MORE: Maximise Your Runs With These Tips From The Pros

      It’s not your running shoes, it’s your socks!

      Lower-cut socks can also wear down the inside cushioning and material before their time, so consider higher-length socks if you start to notice the back of the shoe coming undone. Not wearing the right socks can also cause blisters.

      How To Prevent Buying the Wrong Shoe

      Visit a proper running store (not just your local sports shop) and get your feet analysed before buying a pair of shoes.

      You need to check your gait, your arch, your foot size and whether you might have a pronation of sorts.

      Get the right shoe(s) for the type of running you’re doing. Some shoes are made for short, sharp running and others are designed for marathon distances. They give you different kinds of support and bounce. More

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      This Powerful Bodyweight Workout Tones It All – Fast

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      No gym? That’s no barrier to getting your sweat on. Get stronger with this fun bodyweight workout that you can perform in the comfort of your own home. The only piece of equipment that you’ll need is your coffee table or a bench.

      This all-over bodyweight workout was created by personal trainer and founder of Fit Best Training, Renché Seyffert.

      To complete this workout, work in intervals. For intermediate to advanced athletes (yes, you!) work with the 50/10 principle. This means you’ll work for 50 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds.

      If you’re a beginner athlete, use the 40/20 principle. Work for 40 seconds, then rest for 20. Rest for one minute after each round and aim to complete three to four rounds in total. We’ll warn you: it’s a doozy!

      Watch PT Renché Seyffert demo the moves, then read on for the technique notes.

      The Living Room Bodyweight Workout

      [embedded content]

      1/ Single Leg Skater Sit Squats

      Stand in front of the edge of the coffee table on your right leg.

      Jump sideways to your left and land on your left leg in front of the left edge of the coffee table.

      Still only on your left leg, lower yourself down into a sitting squat, placing your bum firmly onto the table.

      Get back up by pushing from your left heel upwards, using your calf muscles, hamstrings and glutes.

      Jump to your right side and land on your right leg before lowering down into your sit squat. That’s one – keep going!

      READ MORE: Transform Your Legs With This 20-Minute Home Workout

      2/ Incline Push Up with Clap

      Get into a plank position with your hands on top of the table, shoulder-width apart.

      Keep your feet hip-width apart and bend your elbows as you lower your chest towards the table.

      With an explosive movement, push yourself away from the table, forcing your arms and upper body into the air and clapping your hands. Return to the starting position and repeat.

      3/ Plank Cross Tap to Bear Jumps

      Start in a plank position with feet hip-width apart, elevated on top of the table.

      With your hands on the floor, shoulder-width apart, jump onto all fours, then jump back into a plank.

      Tap the left foot to the right side underneath the body.

      Move back to the plank position and tap the right foot to the left side underneath the body.

      READ MORE: Can Wearing Wrist Weights On A Walk Really Tone Your Arms? We Asked A Fitness Expert

      4/ Tricep Dip – Alternating Toe Tap

      Get into a tabletop position facing the ceiling with your hands on the table, keeping your feet on the floor.

      Bend your elbows as you lower yourself towards the floor.

      Straighten your arms to move back up to the starting position. Ensure that you use your arms to perform the movement and not your hips or legs.

      Once back to the starting position, tap your left hand with your right foot. Repeat on the other side.

      5/ Side Plank Hip Dips on Right

      Stand in a side plank on your right elbow.

      Raise your left leg on the table and ensure the right leg is suspended in the air, under the table surface.

      Dip your hips towards the floor and back up. Repeat on the other side.

      READ MORE: This Beginner Callisthenics Workout Builds Serious Strength & Mobility

      6/ Step Up Reverse Lunges

      Start by standing with both feet on top of the table.

      Slowly step back with one of your legs into a reverse lunge.

      Make sure both knees are bent and your back is straight. Ensure that your knee (of the foot in front) does not go over your toes.

      Bring back your leg to the starting position and repeat on the other leg.

      Once you have found your rhythm and balance, you can speed it up a little and add a hop on top of the table when changing your legs.

      7/ Elevated Sit-Ups

      Start by lying flat on your back on the floor and place your feet and calves on table.

      Extend your arms over your head using your abdominals, as you lift your upper body and crunch down so that your hands can touch your feet.

      Slowly lower yourself back down to the floor to the starting position and repeat. More

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      This Beginner Callisthenics Workout Builds Serious Strength & Mobility

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      If you’ve ever watched gymnast Caitlin Rooskrantz perform gravity-defying feats, you’ve probably wistfully imagined yourself being *that* strong and flexible. The truth? Those fabulous moves are built on callisthenics: the body-weight workout style that prioritises using your own body as the weight. Practising body-weight moves is an effective way to build functional strength and sculpt sexy, lean muscle tone. And, in case the title didn’t clue you in, you can start as a total beginner and still feel like Simone Biles. Ahead, reasons to tap into callisthenics workouts and the moves to start with.

      Why callisthenics workouts are so good

      You can do it anywhere, anytime

      The great thing about body-weight training (or a callisthenics workout, as it’s technically called) is that you can do it pretty much anywhere with minimal equipment. That’s because you’re using your own body weight as the load and gravity to create resistance. Also, most of the time, you don’t need to move very far, so it can be done in relatively small spaces, depending on what you’re doing.

      It builds killer abs

      There’s a lot of balance and stabilising required in body-weight moves, so your core will work overtime (yay, abs!) Plus, having this improved stability means less falling around in the long run, making you sturdy and strong.

      Callisthenics sculpts your upper bod

      All the pulling and pushing you do with your upper body will sculpt your back, arms and shoulders. If you’re aiming to try a pull-up or handstand, these moves will help you reach those goals.

      How to do this beginner callisthenics workout

      These moves, from Tim and Jacko of the training community School of Calisthenics,  are ideal as callisthenics for beginners starting body-weight training. And all they require are a floor with a cushioned surface (like an exercise mat, carpet or grass), a wall and something to hang from. We’ve used gymnastic rings, but a straight bar at your local park will also work fine.

      Tim and Jacko from School of Calisthenics, with trainer Hayley Ryan, show us how to master these moves…

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      1 Frog Stand

      This foundational move helps you build the upper-body strength and balance that you’ll need for more advanced body-weight moves like freestanding handstands. If you find your feet can’t lift off the ground, that’s totally fine. Over time, you’ll build enough strength to lift them!

      2 Wall Walk

      As adults, we don’t spend much time upside down, so this is a fun challenge. Keep your core braced and only go as far as you feel comfortable, but aim to walk a bit closer to the wall every time.

      3 Dead Bug

      This body-weight move from Pilates works different core muscles simultaneously, strengthening your stabilisers, lowering your injury risk and improving your coordination. Be sure to keep your lower back glued to the floor at all times.

      4 Hollow-Body Hold

      Kind of the upside-down cousin of a plank, this isometric body-weight move (holding a single position; not moving) targets your whole core from multiple directions. It’s brilliant for building core strength, as well as body position patterning to protect your lower back in other exercises. The goal is to create a bowl shape with your body. Again, keep your lower back glued to the ground at all times. See how long you can hold it for.

      5 Hollow-Body Rock

      This is a classic example of how a body-weight move can turn into a fun game. Once you can do the hold for 10 seconds without breaking form, the goal is to rock back and forth like a rocking horse, while in that hollow-hold position. Way easier said than done.

      6 Skin The Cat

      You might need a few practice rounds to really nail this, and that’s ok. It’s a good idea to warm up the shoulders before attempting this one (check out this warm-up you can do with a broom). Then, see how many reps you can knock out. Even if you can’t skin the entire cat, you’ll still get a top callisthenics workout.

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