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      10 Super-Cool And Inspirational Fit Moms You Need To Follow On Instagram

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      When you’re doing the most just to keep your new little human alive, it’s a winning day when you find time to wash your hair. As for exercise? Healthy eating? Leaving the house? This is what dreams are made of.  Well, these fit moms are proof that there is hope. Follow them on Instagram for fun ways to incorporate baba into your healthy lifestyle, post-baby workouts and, most importantly, to remind yourself that you’re not alone in this strange, new world.

      1. Takkies

      @Takkies7

      SA’s queen of sass and self-love shares heartwarming videos featuring her adorable daughters. Trust us, these kiddos are natural-born co-stars (following in their mom’s dancing shoes)! Follow Takkies for a dose of positivity and some delightful family moments.

      2. Abbi McDuling

      @_activeliving

      The mama we just can’t get enough of! She’s all about prioritising self-love and embarking on a journey every mom can relate to. As she puts it, “My body will NEVER be the same again & neither would I want it to be because these changes have transformed me into a mother & given me my beautiful baby boy.”

      3. Uleen Fourie

      @uleenfourie

      Uleen is a health coach, a soon-to-be mom of two and the co-founder of Health-e App. Juggling motherhood and fitness like a pro, her feed is loaded with quick workout videos and time-saving healthy food ideas. Need pregnancy fitness tips? She’s got those too! Plus, Uleen keeps it real about the ups and downs of motherhood.

      READ MORE: Hey New Mom — These Products Will Change Your Life

      4. Daniella Lagerwey

      @healthylivingwithdaniella

      Daniella is all about pregnancy and postpartum workouts, guiding women on their healthy living journey. With her easy-to-follow workouts, she offers great advice and shares mouthwatering recipes to keep you on track.

      5. Kayla Itsines

      @kayla_itsines

      With a whopping follower base of over 15 million, chances are you’re already following Kayla Itsines. This fit mama’s account covers it all: high-intensity, strength, pregnancy, post-pregnancy and low-impact workouts.

      6. Caley Jäck

      @caley.jack

      Former WH cover star Caley Jäck is not just a mom of two, but also the ultimate #bodygoals! Check out her Instagram for workout videos featuring her adorable ‘babas’. As she mentioned in one of her posts, “I want my girls to love physical movement as they grow up, to have a healthy relationship with exercise and food and to have it built into their daily lives.” Follow Caley for some inspiring workouts and heartfelt messages about fostering a healthy lifestyle for the next gen.

      READ MORE: Caley Jäck’s Simple Formula For Sticking To A Healthy Lifestyle

      7. Raeesa Solwa

      @RunItWithRaeesa

      We’re totally inspired by this Durban-based biokineticist and running coach’s workouts. While her kids are all grown up now, her older content is packed with bright ideas for working out safely with a bump on board and the road to recovery.

      8. Rachel Brathen

      @yoga_girl

      If you’re looking for a dose of calm and inspiration in your feed, Rachel Brathen, also known as Yoga Girl, is a must-follow. With her soothing yoga flows, candid reflections on motherhood and glimpses into her daily life, Rachel offers a sanctuary of mindfulness and positivity.

      9. Emily Skye

      @EmilySkyeFit

      For every reward that comes with being a new mom, there’s also a boatload of struggle and self-doubt – which is why it’s so comforting to see Emily talk openly about issues like her postpartum depression, how much work really goes into shedding the baby weight in a healthy way and some of the totally gross “joys” of motherhood that no one usually talks about.

      READ MORE: Here’s How To Actually Practise Mindfulness And Unlock Inner Peace

      10. Meg Lagerwey

      @the_good_gut_guru

      Finding time for a well-balanced meal might feel daunting, but look to Meg, mama of two, for healthy and nutritious meals the entire family can enjoy. As a certified wellness and nutrition coach, she’s passionate about gut health and shares delicious, wholesome recipes that make eating well a pleasure. More

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      Get Moving The Fun Way With This High-Energy Dance Workout

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      The gym isn’t for everyone and if that includes you, it’s totally fine. There are many ways to get a good workout in. And right up there, is dancing. You might not think of shaking your booty as exercise, but spend a Friday night burning up the floor at the klurb and don’t be surprised if you struggle to get out of bed the next day. This dance workout from Toka Lintsa is perfect for women who love to move on the dance floor, not so much on the gym floor.

      Work Out Without Even Realising It

      So how do you turn your love of dancing into a workout? It’s easier than you think! “Dancing comes from the inside,” says Toka. “What you see inside a club, try to see which muscle groups it targets – like if you get down low, this is a squat and it benefits your thighs.” Similarly, moving your arms works your shoulders and the muscles of your upper back. You may not be holding any weights, but do it for long enough and you’ll feel the burn, don’t you worry!

      READ MORE: 6 Dance Fitness Lessons From The Fitness Marshall

      Toka’s 15-Minute Dance Workout

      Ready to give this whole dance workout thing a try? Try this routine from Toka. Spend five minutes learning the moves, then when you’re feeling confident, dance along with Toka in real time. Got it down? Repeat the dance, feeling free to improvise as you go along and feel the beat. Just like any dancing, a dance workout should be free and fun.

      READ MORE: Tone Up The Fun Way With This Strength And Cardio Dance Workout

      [embedded content]

      Your Moves

      1. ‘Roll It Dance’

      Walking squats: 8 steps to the front

      Spin punches to a dynamic shoulder roll: alternative sides x4

      Reversed walking squats: 8 steps/counts to the back

      Spin punches to a dynamic shoulder roll: alternative sides x4

      2. ‘Kick and side-tap’

      Kick and side-tap: alternating sides x8 times

      3. ‘Upper body roll-tap’

      Upper-body roll and toe-dip: alternating sides

      Report To The Dance Floor!

      The WH editors have dropped their go-to dance workout jams and trust us, resistance is futile! Try not to groove along as you add these tracks to your playlist. Feel free to throw in your own signature moves and make it a dance party workout. More

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      Hunch Over Your Desk? These Moves Will Sort Out Your Shoulders STAT

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      Picture someone hunching over their keyboard for the majority of the day, shoulders creeping up towards their ears. Does that hypothetical person sound a lot like you? We’re all guilty of being that person at some point or another. And while we should be more vigilant about sitting up straight, it’s easy to forget when you’re rushing towards that 3pm deadline. That’s why we found four simple shoulder strength exercises that will help you get better posture in very little time.

      READ MORE: The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

      Why You Should Strengthen Your Shoulders For Better Posture

      Building up your shoulder strength and mobility will help counteract that urge to hunch, even when you didn’t even realise you were doing it.

      “The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, which means there are a lot of things that can go wrong with it,” says physiotherapist Mike Riccardi. “If your shoulders hurt, it’s probably from a combination of a few things, because the shoulder joint is complex. But the one overarching cause is poor posture.” (Did we just see you straighten up?)

      The key to beating the hunch is to increase shoulder mobility and build shoulder strength. But you don’t just want to target your traps and anterior deltoids (the showy muscles that you obviously think of as ‘shoulders’). Remember how the shoulder is a complex joint? It also has a whole lot of muscles round back that help stabilise the joint and pull your shoulders back and down away from your ears.

      The Workout: 4 Shoulder Strength Exercises For Better Posture

      These four simple exercises from coach Lushwill Rossouw will help you get there.

      You need: Barbell, two medium to heavy dumbbells and a PVC pipe (don’t have one? A broom or mop will do too, as long as they’re not heavy).

      READ MORE: Try This Shy Girl Upper Body Workout If You Lack Confidence At Gym

      1. PVC Pipe Complex

      Good for: Mobility Do: 3 sets of 5 reps of each move

      This is a great warm-up to do before any upper-body workout that’s going to be using your shoulders because it targets different muscles around the joint. The first part hits the traps and anterior deltoids in the front and on top of your shoulders, while the next two hit the muscles at the back.

      2. PVC Pipe Shoulder Rotations

      Good for: Mobility Do: 10

      Another good warm-up, this move takes the joint through its full range of motion. The wider apart your hands, the easier it will feel. Your goal is to warm up, not become a contortionist!

      READ MORE: 18 Feel-Good Workouts That’ll Boost Your Mood ASAP

      3/ Push Press

      Good for: Strength Do: 3 sets of 6-8

      Lifting any weight above your head is an easy way to strengthen your shoulders. They difference here is that your stabiliser muscles have to work to control the clumsy barbell. Using your legs for a little boost helps you lift a heavier weight than you would with shoulder strength alone. The real work is controlling that barbell at the top and on the way down and that’s where those rear stabilisers come into their own. Bonus: It’ll also do wonders for your core and triceps.

      READ MORE: The Best Back Stretches To Tackle Upper And Lower Back Pain

      4/ Dumbbell Press With Isometric Hold

      Good for: Strength Do: 3 sets of 5

      Pushing the weights overhead will sculpt those showy muscles at the front and on top of your shoulders, making them look seriously toned and sexy. But here’s the catch: Once they’re overhead, hold them up there, with straight arms, for a count of three. This brings your stabilisers into play to keep the joint, well, stable. Bye-bye hunch, hello toned upper back! More

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      18 Feel-Good Workouts That’ll Boost Your Mood, Stat

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      When it comes to exercise, one rule is paramount: you’ve got to enjoy what you do, whether that’s hitting balls playing padel, swimming or dancing. Whatever your movement, study after study confirms that the more you enjoy exercising, the more likely you are to continue. These six trainers champion feel-good workouts and will inspire you to move more in a way you truly enjoy.

      Kirsten Johnson

      Everything about Kirsten Johnson’s workouts screams joy. Her dance-inspired workouts are all about rejoicing in the way your body can move.

      An ex-dancer and founder of the Find Balance Kindly workout app, a series of dance-inspired functional workouts, she muses: “Growing up in the harsh dance industry, I was very aware of how words, comments or corrections could either encourage or deflate me as an artist. The classes on my app are all real-time, follow-along workouts so that I can encourage and motivate through positive affirmation.”

      Why Does Kirsten Love Feel-Good Workouts?

      “I believe that movement is medicine,” says Johnson. “Being able to move your body every day is such a huge blessing and showing up for yourself, even on the hard days, is an act of self-love and gratitude, which is something I think we should practise daily.”

      Try Kirsten’s Workouts

      READ MORE: 20 Fitness Apps To Kickstart Your Wellness Journey

      Teal Hogg

      Teal Hogg’s workouts are all centred around lifting heavy while treating your body kindly. That also means tailoring your workouts around your menstrual cycle to accommodate your body’s ups and downs. Find her workouts on her Hustle Fit app. How’s that for feeling good?

      “Learning to understand and work with, and not against, the natural hormonal fluctuations as a woman has been the most empowering thing I’ve ever done for myself – and for other women as well. Instead of shying away from the stigma of periods, we’re starting to honour the beauty of the female body.”

      Why Does Teal Love Feel-Good Workouts?

      “Not only is it nice to feel good from working out but it’s actually essential for women to train according to how they feel, because of our continuous hormonal fluctuations,” says Hogg.

      Try Teal’s Workout

      READ MORE: Tone Up The Fun Way With This Strength And Cardio Dance Workout

      Nomvula Khuzwayo

      Nomvula exploded on our Insta feeds some time ago with her always-happy dance moves. She also champions tough-as-nails workouts, while doing it with a smile. Who doesn’t love a challenge?

      “I dance – a lot! I don’t have to preach anything to my followers, they can see from the joy I exude in my videos that the lifestyle I live has a positive impact on my life. They love that and they too want to have that kind of energy.”

      Why Feel-Good Workouts Work For Nomvula

      “The more people feel good, the more motivated they are to live, work and be present members of society,” says Khuzwayo. “Most of the workouts I post are full body, which allows those with busy lives to get a workout in without having to focus on one muscle group at a time.”

      Try Nomvula’s Workouts

      READ MORE: The Best Back Stretches To Tackle Upper And Lower Back Pain, From A Yoga Instructor

      The Movement Lab

      Pilates is having a hot moment. But Pilates with upbeat music? Now that’s even hotter. The Movement Lab, with trainer Jessica Mandel at the helm, offers this in buckets: fun, feel-good Pilates set to thumping good tunes. We’re sold – and we’ve been for a while!

      “Feel good movement is at the heart of each of our classes. Our repertoires are designed around functional movement patterns – ensuring we can move through life confidently, pain-free and efficiently. We want people to find joy and fun in their workouts,” she explains.

      Why Jess Loves Feel-Good Workouts

      “For years, I didn’t consider myself sporty or fit because I hadn’t found an exercise routine that I loved,” reflects Mandel. “It wasn’t until I did my Pilates Instructor Training that I fell in love with movement. I leave every class feeling better than when I walked in and I look forward to moving my body.”

      A Peek At The Movement Lab’s Classes

      READ MORE: Step Into Your Best Shape With The WH Walking Challenge

      Takkies

      Cover star Takkies stole our hearts when she entered the WH Next Fitness Star competition back in 2016. Years on, her dance classes, centred on self-love and body positivity, continue encouraging women to love their bodies in all shapes and forms.

      Find her workouts at a Rockingnheels studio in Joburg, with a team holding down the fort while she runs the London classes. “I create a safe space where women can come, let go and just be. There’s so much power in being in a space where you feel comfortable enough to be yourself, accept yourself or even to be able to find out things you love about yourself,” she says.

      Why Does Takkies Love Feel-Good Workouts?

      “I feel that you have a more positive approach to life, people and all that you do when you feel good,” says Takkies. How you feel contributes so much to what you pour out into the world. I also believe that we can tackle anything that life throws at us a little better when we feel good.”

      Try Takkies’ Workouts

      READ MORE: Here’s How To Make Weight Loss Goals That Will Actually Stick in 2024

      Lisa Raleigh

      Lisa Raleigh literally bounces for joy. Her workouts, called bounti, which take place on the rebounder, will have you feeling like a kid again – while working all the major muscle groups on one tiny feel-good tramp.

      Find her classes in Joburg.“bounti rebounding takes you right from the absolute basics of, not just rebounding, but fitness as a whole. Rebounding is a low-impact, totally enjoyable way of becoming fitter, stronger and happier! We’re literally guiding our clients towards jumping for joy,” she enthuses.

      Why Lisa Loves Feel-Good Workouts

      “Movement that heals, not harms is our business mantra when it comes to downloadable workouts, programmes and classes,” Raleigh explains. “The goal is restorative exercise that gives you an effective workout, while also being kind to your body. Who said no pain means no gain?”

      See Lisa’s Workouts More

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      This 15-Minute Pregnancy Workout Does It All – Fast

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

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

      Why this 15-minute pregnancy workout?

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

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

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

      How to warm up for this workout

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      The 15-minute pregnancy workout

      You’ll need:

      A set of dumbbells

      An exercise mat

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

      1/ Squat and knee-to-elbow

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

      2/ Alternating bird dogs

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

      3/ Glute bridge

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

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

      4/ Shoulder press

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

      5/ Triceps kickback

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

      Iovino demonstrates all the moves here:

      [embedded content]

      Michelle October

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

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

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      If you’re in search of a workout that’s both efficient and effective, look no further than high-intensity interval training, or HIIT for short. HIIT helps you build strength and get a cardio workout at the same time, plus it actually burns 25 to 30 percent more calories than resistance training, cycling and treadmill running, according to a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.

      HIIT also comes with all kinds of other perks, like how it can strengthen your heart, help lower blood pressure and even increase your metabolism and calorie burn post-exercise (also known as EPOC). Not to mention, you don’t need any equipment for a challenging HIIT workout and you can do it just about anywhere (granted you have space to crank out a burpee, of course).

      If you’re ready to reap all of the above benefits, try this 30-minute HIIT workout at home, which is good for all fitness levels.

      Time: 30 minutes | Equipment: None | Good for: Total Body

      How To Do The HIIT Workout

      Go through each exercise below in order (some of the moves will repeat throughout the workout). Complete the indicated reps and then continue to the next move, taking rest as noted. Once you’ve completed all 29 exercises, rest for one minute, then repeat the entire circuit one more time.

      1. Walkout

      How to: Start standing at back of mat with feet under hips and arms at sides. Bend over and place palms on the floor then walk hands out to a high plank position, so shoulders are directly over wrists. Pause, then reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      2. Butt Kicks

      How to: Start standing with feet under hips and hands at sides. Bend left leg and raise heel to glute, then quickly return it to start and repeat on the right side. That’s one rep. Complete 10 reps.

      3. Knee Hugs

      How to: Start standing with feet hip-width apart and arms at sides. Bring arms out wide. Then lift left knee toward chest while wrapping arms around shin. Hug leg toward body, then place it down and re-extend arms wide. Now, lift right knee and repeat. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      4. Alternating Low Lunge With Rotation

      How to: To start, from a high plank, bend left knee and bring foot forward to rest outside of left hand. Lift left arm into the air and twist torso toward left leg. Replace hand on floor and step back to high plank, then repeat on right side. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      5. Mountain Climber

      How to: Start in a high plank position. Keep hips level while driving right knee toward chest, return to a plank and quickly repeat with left knee. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      6. Jumping Jacks

      How to: To start, stand in the center of mat with feet together and arms at sides. Then, simultaneously raise arms out and overhead while jumping feet out past shoulders. Without pausing, quickly reverse the movement. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      7. Plank Jacks

      How to: Start in a forearm plank position. Jump feet out past shoulders to a wide “V” shape, then jump them back in again. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      8. Side Forearm Plank To Forearm Plank

      How to: Start in a side forearm plank position, with right forearm on floor, parallel to top of mat, elbow under shoulder, left arm extended straight in air at shoulder height, feet staggered and flexed. Rotate body forward toward mat and place left forearm down on floor behind and parallel to right coming into a forearm plank. Then, drop heels to left side and rotate body toward right side coming into a side forearm plank of opposite side. That’s one rep. Complete 5.Rest for one minute. Then continue to the next exercise.

      9. Jump Squat

      How to: Start standing with feet shoulder-width apart, toes forward, arms at sides. Bend knees, stick butt back and lower down into a squat, bringing hands together in front of chest. Then explosively jump up as high as possible off floor, swinging arms straight behind body for momentum. Land softly on the balls of feet and immediately lower into next squat. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      10. Star Jump

      How to: Start standing with feet together and arms at sides. Bend knees to crouch down, bringing fingers to hover above toes. Then jump up into air bringing legs wide outside of shoulders and arms out overhead, forming “X” with body. Softly land back into a crouch. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      READ MORE: The Top Beginner’s Weightlifting Gear To Elevate Your Training

      11. Step Touch

      How to: Start facing sideways at back of mat with feet together, right heel high, knees bent, torso tilted slightly forward, right arm extended straight behind body and left arm bent across chest. Lift right foot and take a wide step to the right, then bring left foot to meet it, balanced on ball of foot, switching arm positions. Reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      12. Split Jump

      How to: Start in a lunge with right leg forward and left back, both bent at 90 degrees, right arm straight at side and left arm bent, hand in line with chin. Jump up quickly off floor, switching legs in midair to land in lunge with left left forward. That’s one rep. Continue alternating for 10 reps.

      13. Star Jump

      How to: Start standing with feet together and arms at sides. Bend knees to crouch down, bringing fingers to hover above toes. Then jump up into air bringing legs wide outside of shoulders and arms out overhead, forming “X” with body. Softly land back into a crouch. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      14. Step Touch

      How to: Start facing sideways at back of mat with feet together, right heel high, knees bent, torso tilted slightly forward, right arm extended straight behind body and left arm bent across chest. Lift right foot and take a wide step to the right, then bring left foot to meet it, balanced on ball of foot, switching arm positions. Reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10. Rest for one minute. Then continue to the next exercise.

      15. Jump Squat

      How to: Start standing with feet shoulder-width apart, toes forward, arms at sides. Bend knees, stick butt back and lower down into a squat, bringing hands together in front of chest. Then explosively jump up as high as possible off floor, swinging arms straight behind body for momentum. Land softly on the balls of feet and immediately lower into next squat. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      16. Star Jump

      How to: Start standing with feet together and arms at sides. Bend knees to crouch down, bringing fingers to hover above toes. Then jump up into air bringing legs wide outside of shoulders and arms out overhead, forming “X” with body. Softly land back into a crouch. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      17. Split Jump

      How to: Start in a lunge with right leg forward and left back, both bent at 90 degrees, right arm straight at side and left arm bent, hand in line with chin. Jump up quickly off floor, switching legs in midair to land in lunge with left left forward. That’s one rep. Continue alternating for 10 reps.

      18. Star Jump

      How to: Start standing with feet together and arms at sides. Bend knees to crouch down, bringing fingers to hover above toes. Then jump up into air bringing legs wide outside of shoulders and arms out overhead, forming “X” with body. Softly land back into a crouch. That’s one rep. Complete 20.Rest for one minute. Then continue to the next exercise.

      19. High Knees

      How to: Start standing with feet under hips and arms at sides. Drive left knee up to chest, return foot to floor and repeat with right, switching feet as fast as possible and pumping arms similar to running motion. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      20. Pop Squat

      How to: Start in a squat with feet shoulder-width apart and arms bent, hands in front of chest. Bend over to place hands on the ground in front of toes, then jump feet back into a high plank position, shoulders stacked over wrists. Reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      TRY THIS RECIPE AFTER YOUR WORKOUT: These Banana Protein Pancakes Will Keep You Going All Day

      21. Walkout

      How to: Start standing at back of mat with feet under hips and arms at sides. Bend over and place palms on the floor then walk hands out to a high plank position, so shoulders are directly over wrists. Pause, then reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      21. Walkout

      How to: Start standing at back of mat with feet under hips and arms at sides. Bend over and place palms on the floor then walk hands out to a high plank position, so shoulders are directly over wrists. Pause, then reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      22. Burpee

      How to: To start, stand with feet hip-width apart, arms at sides at back of mat. Hop up off floor, land softly, then jump body forward into plank position, quickly lowering stomach all the way to the mat. Push back up and reverse movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      23. Mountain Climber Lunges

      How to: Start in a low lunge position with shoulders stacked over wrists and left foot next to left hand. Jump up and quickly switch legs, so the right foot is in front. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      24. Walkout

      How to: Start standing at back of mat with feet under hips and arms at sides. Bend over and place palms on the floor then walk hands out to a high plank position, so shoulders are directly over wrists. Pause, then reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      25. High Knees

      How to: Start standing with feet under hips and arms at sides. Drive left knee up to chest, return foot to floor and repeat with right, switching feet as fast as possible and pumping arms similar to running motion. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      26. Pop Squat

      How to: Start in a squat with feet shoulder-width apart and arms bent, hands in front of chest. Bend over to place hands on the ground in front of toes, then jump feet back into a high plank position, shoulders stacked over wrists. Reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 20.

      27. Walkout

      How to: Start standing at back of mat with feet under hips and arms at sides. Bend over and place palms on the floor then walk hands out to a high plank position, so shoulders are directly over wrists. Pause, then reverse the movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      28. Burpee

      How to: To start, stand with feet hip-width apart, arms at sides at back of mat. Hop up off floor, land softly, then jump body forward into plank position, quickly lowering stomach all the way to the mat. Push back up and reverse movement to return to start. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

      29. Mountain Climber Lunge

      How to: Start in a low lunge position with shoulders stacked over wrists and left foot next to left hand. Jump up and quickly switch legs, so the right foot is in front. That’s one rep. Complete 10.

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

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      Ready To Play Padel? Here’s The Gear You Need, Per Experts

      by

      So, you spotted everyone having a blast on the padel court this weekend and now you’re itching to join the new “it” sport? Don’t worry, that little voice in your head asking “is it worth it?” is totally normal. But trust me, you’re going to be hooked on this game in no time!

      First things first, let’s start with the basics:

      Racket: You can borrow a padel racket from a friend or rent one at most courts.

      Court Shoes: Trust, your regular kicks won’t cut it here. Grab yourself a pair of court shoes for maximum grip and agility.

      Outfit: Shorts, skorts, a tank top, or a t-shirt will do the trick.

      Balls: Can’t play padel without ’em! 

      Water bottle: Don’t forget to bring along a water bottle to keep you hydrated. Here’s how to pick the perfect one!

      Now that you’re a regular on the court, here’s what the pros recommend:

      Their advice? Don’t be overwhelmed by the options! While there are tons of brands out there, focus on finding the right fit and feel for you.

      Meet The Experts: Jackie Booth is a top-ranked female Padel player and Sports Director of Africa Padel. Simon Raab is from Padel Gear. Ricky Lewis is the Director of Virgin Active Padel Club. 

      “As one of the few level 2 internationally qualified coaches in SA and top-ranked women’s player with a Playtomic rating of 4.84, I have been fortunate to test a number of padel products on the market,” says Booth. “It is staggering the number of padel brands that have flooded the market over the past three years. As players become more discerning and knowledgeable about the various shapes, weights, soles and bounce of the rackets, footwear and balls, in my opinion, there are a few top contenders, some mirroring the international market leaders who have been playing this game for many more years.”

      “In the world of Padel, equipment tailored specifically for women isn’t just about style, it’s about maximising performance and safeguarding your health on the court,” says Simon Raab from Padel Gear SA.

      Padel Rackets 

      There are different types of padel rackets designed to suit various playing styles and skill levels. Beginners typically benefit from rackets with a larger sweet spot and a balance of power and control. Intermediate and advanced players might prefer rackets with more control or power, depending on their playing style.

      First Buy

      “Weight, shape and materials used such as carbon or fibreglass as well as price will be the determining factors for padel players who decide to purchase their own racket,” says Booth.

      Weight

      “New players need to be cautious buying a racket that is too heavy.  Incorrect technique coupled with a heavy racket can quickly result in an injury such as tennis elbow!  Women should stick to a weight range between 345 – 360 grams.  Beginners should also stick to either a round or teardrop shape head as these are more forgiving compared to the diamond shape which is better suited to expert players, as they are able to make consistent contact with the ball higher up on the racket face,” advises Booth.

      Material

      “Fibreglass has a soft feel but lacks power and durability. So, in my opinion, as a beginner, rather invest in a carbon racket.  Carbon provides more power and is also far more durable so the extra investment may save you in the long run,” recommends Booth. 

      PLAY TWO Drop Racket

      A signature choice for intermediate players seeking innovation. Crafted in Sweden, its custom heart minimises vibration, while a 7° racket shape maximises the sweet spot. It’s also got sharp edges for aerial control, a sand finish for spin and a 100% carbon frame for powerful hits.

      adidas DRIVE Light 3.3

      “This racket is designed for players who appreciate a few grams less in their hand. This condition facilitates handling and lightens the arm, especially for less powerful players. It is, therefore, a very interesting option for beginner-level players.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Bullpadel Flow Light 2024

      “A light racket in beautiful colours, with a large sweet spot and very forgiving. World’s No. 1 selling Padel brand.”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      Bullpadel Elite 24

      “My 2024 top choice for a women’s racket overall for all levels: It’s worth the investment!”

      – Jackie Booth, Africa Padel

      adidas Metalbone Team Light 3.3

      “This racket is designed for intermediate-level players who opt for fewer grams on their arm to achieve maximum performance.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Black Crown Hurricane 2.0

      “A round-shaped racket, very forgiving, with excellent control and plenty of power.”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      READ MORE: How To Relax Sore, Tired Muscles With Easy DIY Trigger Point Therapy

      Court Shoes

      Proper footwear is crucial for maintaining stability, agility and traction on the padel court. Padel-specific shoes offer features like durable outsoles with herringbone or omnidirectional patterns for grip, cushioning for comfort and lateral support to prevent ankle injuries.

      Bullpadel Elite 2024 

      “I have seen many rolled ankles and skinned knees due to incorrect footwear.  Padel shoes provide good grip and stability with lateral and linear movements required during a point. Comfort is key and I like a little extra cushion in the heel as I am on my feet for many hours of the day.”

      – Jackie Booth, Africa Padel

      adidas CourtJam Control 3 Shoes

      “Their flexible Bounce midsole will keep you on your toes while the Torsion System helps you translate instinct into quick cuts and slides.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Bullpadel Next Pro White

      “Style with technical ability and design.” 

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      JOMA T Open White

      “Excellent support and a great grip on the court.”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      Balls

      Padel balls are specifically designed for the sport, typically featuring a lower bounce than tennis balls. They’re made of rubber and come in various colours (usually yellow or white) to enhance visibility on the court. Make sure to have a sufficient number of balls for your practice sessions or matches.

      Bullpadel Next Pro FIP Balls

      “A ball that is durable, keeps its firmness and provides a consistent bounce can only be a great quality ball.  This ball is designed for tournaments and due to its long life capability is also the perfect coaching ball all at a very reasonable price.”

      – Jackie Booth, Africa Padel

      adidas Balls Speed Rx

      “Speed Rx is the best ball for beginner to intermediate. It stands out for its great durability and extra bounce.”

      – Ricky Lewis, Virgin Active Padel Club

      Black Crown Pro Padel Balls

      “Perfectly bouncy Padel balls are essential for every game. Why not try these Padel balls, made from high-quality materials to ensure excellent durability and long-lasting bounce?”

      – Simon Read, Padel Gear

      Wilson Padel Balls

      Engineered for optimal consistency, durability and playability, these balls feature Dura-Weave felt for reliable performance on faster court surfaces.

      More On Padel:

      Chamain is the Online Editor of Women’s Health. Explorer by heart, a creative thinker by day and a coffee addict, always. My hobbies include hiking, drawing, painting, photography, cooking and *recently* running. More

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      TikTok’s Viral 30-30-30 Challenge: Does It Work For Weight Loss?

      by

      Ah, another day, another viral TikTok challenge. This time, creators on the app are championing a novel approach to weight loss: the 30-30-30 challenge, which involves eating 30g of protein within 30 minutes of waking up, followed by 30 minutes of exercise.

      As with anything, there are merits and sticky points when it comes to the viral challenge. We spoke to the experts about the 30-30-30 challenge to see how it holds up against the tried-and-true weight loss approaches we know and (seem to) hate: consistent exercise paired with a varied, healthy diet.

      Meet the experts: Claire Julsing-Strydom is a registered dietician specialising in PCOS and weight loss at Nutritional Solutions. Martene Michael is a registered dietician at Nutri Dynamix and is currently completing a Master of Medical Science specialising in the impact of certain dietary patterns on the human body.

      So… What is the 30-30-30 challenge?

      Put simply, the 30-30-30 challenge involves three simple things. Wake up and within 30 minutes, eat 30g of protein. Then, do 30 minutes of steady-state cardio exercise. This exercise can be something very simple like bike riding or a walk. The aim is to keep your heart rate at around 135bmp (beats per minute) while being able to walk or read comfortably.

      This method was first seen in Timothy Ferriss’ book The 4-Hour Body but was made popular by biologist Gary Brecka on TikTok. The idea is that this forces the body to burn fat, as opposed to burning lean muscle (lean muscle burns fat at rest).

      READ MORE: What Is The 75 Hard Challenge—And Is It Safe? Trainers Break Down The Pros And Cons

      What does 30g of protein look like?

      While you’re welcome to eat a combination of carbs and fats with your meal, in order to reap the benefits of the 30-30-30 challenge, your protein must be at 30g.

      This looks like:

      Three scrambled eggs with cheese

      A protein powder shake

      High-protein bread or flapjacks

      1 cup of Greek yoghurt with berries and peanut butter

      A tofu scramble

      What does the 30 minutes of exercise look like?

      Since you’d need to keep your body at 135 bpm, stick to steady-state cardio. This could look like:

      Walking

      Riding a bike

      Stepping

      Running slowly

      Dancing

      READ MORE: 3 High-Protein, Low-Carb Breakfast Recipes You’ll Actually Love To Eat

      What are the benefits of the 30-30-30 challenge?

      A high-protein breakfast is a win

      Experts agree that a filling breakfast is a slam dunk towards weight loss goals. “I think it’s a great idea to wake up, have decent protein for breakfast and then exercise,” says registered dietician Claire Julsing-Strydom. “As a dietician, I often see people do things like oats, but add no protein, or they have toast with avo, which is fat but no protein – and they find that their energy levels dip throughout the day, they get hungrier throughout the day. We know that protein does give us more satiety and it helps with glucose control, too.”

      Martene Michael, a registered dietician, agrees. “With intermittent fasting, eating breakfast has been a hot topic of debate for a while. This 30-30-30 trend brings back breakfast, and I am all for it,” she says. “Encouraging a nutrient-dense, high-protein breakfast may be helpful in improving satiety and in turn, helps to reduce the consumption of high calorie, nutrient-dense foods throughout the day. Research continues to find that eating a protein-rich breakfast may be useful in stabilising blood sugar levels, combats insulin resistance and assisting in long-term, sustained weight loss.”

      Pre-workout fuel is a great idea

      “We also know that exercising straight after a meal helps with glucose control so I think what we’re getting here is the better blood glucose control with the protein,” says Julsing-Strydom.

      We also know that fasted cardio might not be a great idea when it comes to fat loss. “In the popular TikTok video, Brecka discusses the dangers of working out in a fasted state,” notes Michael. “Exercising in a fasted state can lead to the depletion of glycogen reserves, which typically occurs around 20 minutes into a workout. Once glycogen stores are exhausted, the body may resort to breaking down lean muscle tissue to sustain energy levels. This process can compromise muscle integrity and hinder the overall effectiveness of the workout.” Added to that, says Michael, “Consuming protein before a workout can help to prevent muscle breakdown during exercise and can provide amino acids as a readily available energy source during exercise.”

      READ MORE: What Is Cozy Cardio On TikTok? Trainers Weigh In On The Comfy Workout Trend

      What should you watch out for while doing the 30-30-30 challenge?

      According to Michael, make sure that your pre-workout meal also contains some form of healthy carbohydrates.

      “Our brain and muscle’s primary fuel source is carbohydrates. Thus, rather than aiming to hit 30g of protein in a pre-workout meal, it would be advisable to aim to consume a balanced pre-workout meal, consisting of easily digestible carbohydrate and protein sources – such as a light protein shake, rice cakes with fat-free cottage cheese or a low fat/fat-free mini yoghurt with some berries, seeds or nuts,” she says.

      Not everyone can eat that early

      Per Julsing-Strydom, some women might find it difficult to eat a rounded meal within 30 minutes of waking. “If someone would struggle to get this amount of protein in the morning, we’d normally recommend a shake so overall I don’t think this is a bad thing,” she notes. If this is you, it’s not necessarily a bad thing to eat a bit later, says Julsing-Strydom. “I think we mustn’t get into rigid formulas like this – normally those are the ones that do well on social media for the new diet on the block,” she says.

      Steady-state cardio is great, but might not burn all the fat

      “While LISS cardio has its benefits, it is not a magical or exclusive method for fat burning. The perception of any exercise as a ‘fat-burning’ solution can be misleading, and it’s important to understand the broader context of weight management and body composition,” warns Michael. “LISS (low-impact steady state) cardio may be effective for certain individuals. However, for others who have a higher baseline fitness level, this type of exercise may prove to be ineffective. Thus the type of exercise recommended should be based on a personalised approach.”

      READ MORE: Here’s How To Make Weight Loss Goals That Will Actually Stick in 2024

      Overall, experts warn against being too rigid in your weight loss approach. The 30-30-30 challenge, while helpful and potentially healthy, does have a rigidity to it that might not work for everyone. “As with any trending diet, caution is advised, and consulting with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals,” says Michael. “Ultimately, creating a sustainable and healthy lifestyle involves adopting practices that work best for your body to promote long-term health and well-being.” We couldn’t agree more!

      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