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    This 15-Minute Full-Body Weighted Workout Tones Every Inch

    Wanna work out but no idea what to do? We’re here to the rescue! Get in on this full-body weighted workout by trainer Bazini Ngcongo.

    This full-body weighted workout requires just the dumbbells you have sitting in your living room, waiting to be used. Or, you could hit the gym and do it there. It doesn’t really matter. What does? Getting your strength training session done, so you can have healthier bones and muscles, which aid in longevity. No more niggly knees when you’re 80.

    Per Ngcongo, this workout will tone your legs, shoulders, arms, upper back and core. It’s also moderate in intensity, so you can do it if you’re recovering from a cold or just plain can’t stand the idea of jumping around right now. Plus, all you need are two dumbbells and any weight that’ll get you through the workout will do.

    To do this workout, work in 30-second intervals, rest for 15 seconds and then power through the next 30 seconds. Keep going until you’ve covered all the moves, for a total of 15 minutes. That’s all it takes!

    The 15-Minute Full-Body Weighted Workout

    Weighted Squats

    Standing with feet hip-width apart hinge at the knees to come into a squat position – making sure your knees track over your toes and don’t extend past. With the weight in your heels push back up to standing, squeezing your glutes at the top. That’s one rep. Keep going until the timer sounds.

    Back lunges

    Stand holding a dumbbell in each hand. Step backwards into a lunge on your left leg. Hold for a beat. Push off your left leg to return to the starting position and repeat.

    Curtsey lunges

    These’ll work your inner thighs and quads. Start in standing, with one dumbbell balanced on your shoulder, holding it with one arm. With the other, hold it out at your side for balance. Step into a curtsey, making sure your balance holds and weight is distributed evenly throughout. Step back to standing. That’s one rep.

    Romanian deadlifts

    Start in standing, holding the dumbbells at your knees, slightly bent. Hinge down, keeping your core engaged and lower the weights until they reach your shins. Hinge back up to standing.

    Bent-over rows

    Start in standing, then hinge forward from the hips and lower your back until it’s at a 90-degree angle with the floor. Now lift one arm and perform a row, weight in hand. You’ll feel it in your core and arms. That’s one rep. Alternate your arms until the 30-second timer is up.

    Front raises

    Start in a standing position and brace your core. Take one dumbbell and raise it, holding the weight with both arms. Raise until the weight is at chest level, then lower back down.

    Bicep curl

    Hold the weight in one hand. Curl your arm up until the weight touches your shoulder, then lower all the way back. That’s one rep. Keep your core engaged throughout.

    Plank

    Get into a plank position, elbows stacked under shoulders, toes tucked and hips raised so that your body forms a straight line from your head to your feet. Engage your core (it should feel as though you are tensing) and hold for 30 secs. Remember to keep your hips raised, breathe and try not to arch your back.

    Watch trainer Bazini demo the moves here:

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    10 of the best Dubai-based studios to book for a zen yoga class

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    With International Yoga Day soon approaching on June 21, 2023, it’s time to book a session to feel calm from the inside out.
    So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, there’s a class for everyone to try out and feel completely rejuvenated after.
    From Vinyasa to hip hop yoga, you can choose a class that fits best into your workout routine to relax and heal during your time off or for a midweek break.
    Hence, for inspiration on where to book next, Emirates Woman has curated the perfect guide of venues to book for your upcoming yoga class.
    Samadhi Wellness

    For an aesthetic studio, this is newest wellness space on the block. With a wide range of classes including Warm Power Yoga, Candlelit Yin, Sunrise Flow, Warm Vinyasa Flow and much more, visitors are sure to feel calm from the moment they enter. With fine attention to detail, the space uses natural textures, stones, woods and all the elements of a sacred setting. Open daily from 7am to 9:45pm, this newly opened wellness studio promises an unforgettable experience with its zen interiors. Located in Jumeirah, 491b, this space is definitely a must-visit.
    For more information visit samadhi-wellness.com
    Paus; Wellness + Community

    By normalising wellness in your day-to-day life, this wellness studio located in the heart of Jumeirah promises an unforgettable experience unlike any other. For a new take on your workout routines, guests can try a hip-hop yoga class. Participants will typically start with some gentle stretching and breathing exercises to warm up their bodies. The instructor will then guide students through a series of yoga poses, often set to a soundtrack of hip-hop music. Who said feeling zen needs to be boring? Everyone can be a part of the class with a few creative twists to match the rhythm and beat of the music. Located at Villa 1202, Al Reef Villas, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2, this wellness hub is open daily from 7am to 10pm and classes start at Dhs95 per session.
    Shimis

    Introducing a completely unique yoga concept to get the maximum benefit, the team feliver peace of mind with calming meditation sessions that challenge both your flexibility and mental well-being. The studio offers a unique blend of yoga and fitness classes that cater to individuals of all skill levels. The classes offered including Hatha, Yin and Vinyasa flow along with the occasional full moon yoga classes. Located in Warehouse 42 in Alserkal Avenue, it’s open from Monday to Friday 6:30am to 9:30pm and Saturday from 8:30am to 4pm and Sunday from 8:30am to 8pm.
    For more information visit shimis.com
    SEVA Experience

    With an all-day plant-based dining experience accompanied with classes at its yoga and sound meditation studio to help you unwinds as you enjoy simple pleasures in this haven. For the complete experience guests, indulge in vegan dishes after the class. The yoga classes are tailored for all levels from beginner to advanced with incredibly passionate teachers to guide you through the process. With flow of movement, breath, mindfulness and sound, this all-in-one experience ensures customers feel rejuvenated when they walk out. A single class is priced at Dhs130 and the 5 class package is priced at Dhs550 and is valid for 2 months after the date of purchase.
    For more information visit sevaexperience.com
    Blended Wellness

    This multi-wellness destination is an all-encompassing space of health, fitness and beauty experiences. If you want to focus on your fitness goals, this professional environment offers personal training sessions and group classes for workouts such as yoga. Guests can also opt for the full moon yoga sessions taking place occasionally at Dhs199 per session with Yin Yoga and Crystal Singing Bowl Meditation. Situated in the luxe surroundings of The Dukes, The Palm Jumeirah, Blended Fit is open daily from 6am to 10pm.
    For more information visit blendedwellness.com
    Yoga House
    Yoga House offers a variety of classes suitable for all levels of yoga practitioners, from beginners to advance. The main classes include Power Yoga, Vinyasa Flow, Yin Yoga and Hatha Yoga. Additionally, visitors can opt for workshops and events that focus on different aspects of wellness such as meditation, mindfulness and nutrition along with state-of-the-art facilities and a set of skilled instructors. Located at Emaar Business Park and Intercontinental Dubai Marina Hotel.
    For more information visit yogahouse.ae
    FitnGlam

    At this one-of-a-kind all-ladies studio, customers can embark on a holistic wellness journey with a series of invigorating experiences that include Yin Yoga, Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Gentle Yoga, restorative Face Yoga complemented by other deeply transformative sound meditation and Theta Healing sessions. The UAE’s leading women-only SuperClub is ready to inspire women to unfurl their yoga mats for an extraordinary celebration of International Yoga Day throughout June. Located in al Quoz, Mirdif and Dubai Hills Mall, women can opt for a one time class or opt for the packages with the prices available upon request.
    For more information visit fitnglam.ae
    Akasa Wellness

    As a sanctuary to connect and thrive in your wellness journey, guests can embark on a fitness journey with Yoga, Pilates and other Holistic activities from beginners to advanced level. The space is place to release, reflect and recharge before, after or during an active day. Located at Loft Office 2 in Al Sufouh, it’s open daily from 7am to 10pm.
    For more information visit akasawellness.ae
    Dryp

    If you’re looking to release all your toxins. Then Dryp yoga is the right option for you. The space uses latest infrared heat technology that enhances results no matter which class you choose or what level you’re at. We recommend Hot Yin Yoga -slow paced, deep stretching candlelight yoga class practiced with relaxing beats. The classes are priced at Dhs125 per class or Dhs399 for five classes which are valid for one month. Located in Orra Marina Tower, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 7:30am to 10pm, Friday 7:30am to 7pm, Saturday 8am to 6:30pm and Sunday 8am to 8pm.
    For more information visit dryp.ae
    The Hundred Wellness Centre

    From Ashtanga and Vinyasa to Hatha yoga, numerous disciplines are offered at this wellness retreat that is a real haven in the city. A strong focus on balance, power, fluidity, flexibility and alignment make for improved posture, flexibility and overall wellbeing. Located in Villa 21, Street 53 B on Jumeirah Beach Road, it’s open daily from 7am to 8pm and is closed on Friday.
    For more information visit thehundred.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @emily.sferra More

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    6 Tips That’ll Help You Get Over The Finish Line Of The Comrades Marathon

    International water activist Mina Guli recently did a whopping 200 marathons in one year around the globe to raise awareness of the global water crisis we’re facing. 200 marathons? Now that’s a woman with intel, we say. Naturally, we turned to her right before the formidable Comrades Marathon to get her tips on how to get over the finish line, blisters and chaffing be damned.

    “I am not a runner, by any stretch of the imagination,” says Guli. “In fact, when I was younger, I avoided doing any form of exercise. But I realised that to raise awareness for the dire global water crisis, I would have to do something very hard to make a real impact. I have found that these six tips are the only reason I am able to make it through my runs when things get really rotten, and it would be so much easier to give up!”

    Stay in the moment

    Wanna give up because there are still 20 whole kilometres of road left? Take it one kilometre at a time, says Guli. “It is really important to remember this is not a 90km race, it is 1km one step at a time,” she says. “Focus on the kilometre that you are doing and the step that you are taking, really focus on just being there in that moment!”

    Focus on your purpose

    Throughout the race, remind yourself why you signed up for this race. Is it to raise awareness around an issue? Did you want to prove to yourself that you can do difficult things? Focus on this. “It’s very important to think in advance why you are doing this race, what your purpose is! It often helps to write this purpose on your hand or your wrist so that you can easily see it and remind yourself on the route why you are there!”

    Think good things

    You’re tired and everything hurts and you just want to give up. This will happen. To help, channel positive thoughts. “There will always be something that hurts – be real it’s 90km – but equally, there is always something that feels good. Whether it’s your fingers, your hands or even the tip of your nose, focus on that and how good it feels! Remember how powerful your mind is and focus your attention away from the hurt to the parts that feel good!”

    Be grateful

    “Phrase thoughts differently in your mind. Instead of thinking, I have to do this race, rather think how awesome it is to be able to take part in this event,” says Guli. “Say hello and thank you to all of the volunteers along the route who make a race like Comrades Marathon possible. When you give positive energy out, it’s incredible the energy that you get back and the power that this gives to your spirit, your body, your mind and your soul.”

    Get the basics right

    Remember your snacks, hydrate regularly and fuel your body properly with loads of carbs before the race. “You need to ensure that you take on the right fuel to help your body get through an incredible feat like the Comrades Marathon,” says Guli.

    Pick a mantra

    “When things get really tough for me, I remind myself that we CAN do hard things, we are capable of so much for than we realise,” says Guli. “I like to bring in all of the points above into my mantra to keep my head in the right space. [Things like] I am able to do hard things, I stay in the moment, I focus on my purpose, I think about only good things, I am grateful and I fuel my body to the best of my ability throughout the run.” More

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    The ultimate editor-approved guide to Dubai’s Wasl 51

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Bringing you all the best hotspots in Dubai, our editor-approved guide to another bustling community is back. This time featuring Wasl 51.
    From all the quaint eateries to an upcoming workout hub, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the activities to try out on your next visit.
    Restaurants & Cafés
    BLK Cab Coffee

    Homegrown in Dubai, BLK Cab Coffee has five locations across the emirate, one of them being in the heart of Wasl 51. As the name would suggest, the coffee chain is inspired by the black cabs of London. The coffee spot is the ideal place to meet for a quick work meeting or to see friends over a nice brew on the weekends.
    Brunch & Cake

    Created with love, Brunch & Cake believes in delivering each dish with the best possible ingredients. From zucchini pancakes to delicious French toast, the restaurant was created to push the boundaries of F&B in Dubai. Bringing grandma’s goodness to the table, the restaurant offers a perfect mix of healthy, wholesome and visually appealing items on the menu. Located at Wasl 51, ground floor, it’s open daily from 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit brunchandcake.com
    Lana Lusa

    With Portuguese roots, the restaurant revives the neighbourhood soul of old southern Europe. By working in an open kitchen, the chefs create a series of mouth-watering dishes ranging from salted cod to grilled chicken. For a secluding and calming environment, this restaurant is an ideal place to leave the relentless pace of city outside. If you want a quick bite or a candlelit dinner, this restaurant has it all. Located in Plaza 1, Al Wasl road, it’s open on weekdays from 8am to 12am and on weekends from 9am to 12am.
    For more information visit lanalusa.com
    Milk Bar

    After starting as a family-owned, home-based dessert shop, this café provided a comfortable and trendy atmosphere with milk as its main ingredient. The urban environment focuses on bringing people together with lovingly prepared sweets accompanied with a cup of specialty coffee for the ultimate treat. Located in Shop 19, Wasl 51, It’s open from Monday to Sunday 10am to 10pm.
    For more information visit milkbar.ae
    Saya Brasserie

    This cosy concept has an array of delicious dishes in an Instagrammable setting. From Moroccan hummus to custom desserts, this restaurant provides the highest quality in everything served. Whether an enjoyable lunch or a romantic dinner, this restaurant has become an oasis of the sweet and desired. Located in Wasl 51, it’s open from 9am to 1am.
    For more information visit sayacafe.ae
    La Fabbrica Italiana

    This restaurant brings an exciting new side of Italy to Dubai. Based on a piece of Focaccia, this 2000-year-old Italian tradition is served with a modern touch at this haven. By serving history, the love of food, culture and customer is all combined together under one roof. From Burrata’s to Tiramisu, La Fabbrica is considered a foodie’s time machine with every bite of its heritage served on a plate.
    For more information visit lafabbricaitaliana.com
    Orfali Bros Bistro

    By pushing the boundaries of cooking, Orfali Bros allows guests to discover new flavours to Dubai’s food scene. By invoking a sense of creativity, pride and joy at the kitchen, the chefs bring their experience to the table with an avant-garde flair. Enhanced with an element of multiculturalism, the restaurant has evolved into a work of gastronomical art. It’s open from Sunday to Saturday 12pm to 12am.
    For more information visit orfalibros.com
    Salons
    The Lash Show

    Your eyes have the power to change your complete look and the lash show believes the same. It’s the first-ever concept beauty salon & café in the region. This one-stop shop for your lash and nail needs offers its clients an array of innovative techniques to leave them feeling flawless. With this salon truly being love at first blink, guests have the option to choose from various mocktails as their session takes place. It’s open daily from 11am to 9pm except for Tuesdays.
    For more information visit thelashshow.ae
    Fitness
    51 Gym

    This one-stop shop fitness centre lets everyone discover their potential with all the state-of-the-art fitness equipment and premium amenities. With classes ranging from boxing, TRX, HIIT, yoga, Reformer and Pilates, guests will surely come back for more. Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness fanatic, this gym has enough sessions and expert levels to best suit your needs. Located in Plaza 1 Entrance, it’s open on weekdays from 6am to 10pm and at weekends from 8am to 8pm.
    For more information visit 51gym.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Supplied by Wasl 51 More

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    12 things you might not know about Sheikh Hamdan

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is constantly here there and everywhere.
    With an unending list of passions and hobbies, Emirates Woman has taken a deep dive into some interesting things you might not know about the Crown Prince of Dubai.
    He’s a massive foodie

    For those always on the lookout for places to dine in, these well-known establishments in Dubai have had the seal of approval from UAE royalty.
    Sheikh Hamdan absolutely loves to dine at the best eateries in Dubai including Roka, Ammos, Alici, Carine, Avli by Tashas and many more.
    He’s a doting dad

    His Highness became a father for the first time in May 2021, welcoming twins Rashid and Shaikha into the world. Since then, the Crown Prince of Dubai has truly become the ultimate doting dad. Fazza has shared tidbits of the growing twins on social media, sharing some adorable doting father moments with his 14 million followers on Instagram. He welcomed his third child in February 2023. Revealed to be named Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, he is the third addition to the Crown Prince of Dubai’s growing family.
    He cycled alongside an ostrich

    In a heart-stopping video taken to social media, Sheikh Hamdan is seen racing an ostrich in Dubai which is the world’s fastest bird on land. As he cycles with his entourage on the track, his love for the wildlife is beautifully depicted in this video.
    He’s passionate about underwater sports

    While inspiring many to take the plunge, Sheikh Hamdan makes the idea of deep water underground diving look very easy, as he continuously shares footage of himself under the sea, while also heading numerous metres below the surface to explore hidden underwater caves.
    He can fly a helicopter

    Starting off from Bluewaters island and making his way to Dubai Marina Mall as he goes around Dubai, Dubai’s Crown Prince’s video on social media has circulated around the UAE as he clearly loves to fly his chopper.
    The Crown Prince is also a poet

    With the caption for the above image being translated as follows, picking up poetry from his father has been one of the hidden talents he possesses, as he has also published under the pen name ‘Fazza’ which is an ode to a legendary Arab knight.
    Nature of the Soul
    My poems have meaning written with intuition I write my poems aware and observant My poems are not empty and a waste of my time They become more valuable with the passing of time
    What his nickname ‘Fazza’ means
    As mentioned, Sheikh Hamdan is affectionately known as ‘Fazza’. It means “the one who helps” in Arabic.
    He has climbed to the top of Burj Khalifa

    While scaling to new heights before the end of 2020, Sheikh Hamdan is seen scaling the sky-high building with his video amassing over 900,000 views and over 10,000 comments. He also showcases how high he is as he points the camera directly below him showing the busy Dubai highway and other buildings below. Well, this is not the first time he managed to do this, he also scaled to the top around seven years ago.
    He’s besties with Cristiano Ronaldo

    Over the years, Sheikh Hamdan and football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo have become firm friends. Whenever Ronaldo visits the emirate, the Crown Prince is always on hand to ensure he has the best time in Dubai.
    He launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge

    The annual fitness challenge which takes place every year inspires residents of the emirate to work out for 30 minutes every day for 30 days. Fazza himself launched the Dubai Fitness Challenge back in 2017, encouraging people to be more active in the emirate.
    He’s an avid traveller

    With travelling back on the radar again, there’s no better source of inspiration than His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fueled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.After digging through the archives, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the potential places to add to your bucket list from Sheikh Hamdan’s feed. From Scotland to Japan, this Royal has travelled the globe and continues to make trips around the world.
    He’s a keen photographer

    While he’s an adventurer at heart, Sheikh Hamdan is also a keen photographer always capturing spectacular shots of the travels he’s on and photographs around Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Faz3 More

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    Introducing the TS-ACTV8 Performance Training Gear by Totalsports

    The TS-ACTV Performance gear is engineered with one goal in mind: To make sure you’re getting the most out of your training.

    Upgrade your training sessions with the new TS-ACTV8 range of next-level workout and running gear. Each piece taps into cutting-edge innovations to get you moving (and stay moving).

    Dri-Lite™: Revolutionising Moisture Management in Breathable Fabrics

    When it comes to training or engaging in physical activities, staying cool, dry, and comfortable is of utmost importance. Introducing Dri-Lite™, a cutting-edge fabric technology that combines quick-drying properties with breathability to enhance your performance and overall comfort.

    Dri-Lite™ fabric is specially designed with moisture-wicking capabilities, meaning it has the ability to draw moisture away from the body. Unlike traditional fabrics like cotton which can absorb a significant amount of water, Dri-Lite™, is predominantly made of high-tech polyester or nylon and absorbs very little moisture. Polyester only absorbs 0.4% of its weight in water, while cotton absorbs as much as 7%.

    Key Features

    One of the key features of Dri-Lite™ is its remarkable cross-section and large surface area. These attributes enable the fabric to efficiently pick up moisture from your body and transport it away, spreading it across the fabric’s surface. This action allows for rapid evaporation on the outside of the fabric, ensuring that you remain cool and dry throughout your workout or training session.

    Hyper Stride Bike Shorts

    Extreme Control Black Crop

    Hyper Glide Grey Run Jacket

    Power-Lite™: Unleashing Support and Freedom of Motion

    Comfort and support are essential factors when it comes to performance-enhancing apparel, Power-Lite™ is a fabric known for its exceptional “hold” and compression properties. It offers a combination of comfort and support that takes your activewear to the next level.

    Functional Fabric

    Power-Lite™ fabric is characterised by its tight-fitting and stretchy nature. It moulds to your body, providing a comfortable and supportive fit that allows for freedom of movement. The secret behind Power-Lite™ lies in its composition, primarily consisting of a blend of nylon and spandex.

    Nylon plays a crucial role in enhancing the functionality of the fabric. It improves durability, flexibility, and overall performance, ensuring that the fabric can withstand rigorous activities and maintain its shape over time. Meanwhile, spandex, also known as elastane, provides the fabric with its elasticity, allowing it to stretch and conform to your body without restricting your movements.

    While polyester can be part of the blend in Power-Lite™ fabric, it is a nylon that takes the spotlight due to its superior performance qualities. Nylon’s strength and resilience make it an ideal component in compression fabrics, ensuring that you experience optimal comfort and support during your activities.

    Revolutionising Performance Apparel

    Dri-Lite™ and POWER-LITE fabrics have revolutionised the world of performance apparel. Dri-Lite™’s moisture-wicking and quick-drying capabilities keep you cool and dry. While Power-Lite™’s compression and stretch properties offer unparalleled comfort and support. With these advanced fabric technologies, you can now train with confidence, knowing that your apparel is working as hard as you are to enhance your performance and overall comfort.

    Podium Black Zip-Thru Run Jacket

    Hyper Stride Black Tights

    Extreme Control White Crop

    Shop the TS-ACTV8 performance gear now at www.bash.com. More

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    This Quick Workout Works Your Entire Body

    If you’re a beginner to working out and are not sure where to start, this quick all-over body burner is for you. Pressed for time? Try this. Got excuses? This is the workout! If you’re sensing a theme here, it’s one that Johannesburg-based personal trainer Sherneal Joseph wants you to pick out. No excuses – just get your workout done in 15 minutes, and you’ll be better for it. “I’ve chosen this workout because it invalidates the most common excuses I hear for people skipping a workout or not training at all,” says Sherneal.

    And you’ll work all your most important muscles, from the core to your quads and back. “Apart from challenging you, torching calories and getting those endorphins flowing,” says Sherneal, “This quick workout will promote strength and muscular endurance in all major muscle groups while elevating the heart rate for cardiovascular benefits.”

    Want in? Perform each exercise for 45 seconds with 15 seconds of rest. Rest for 1 minute at the end of each complete round. Repeat for 3 rounds. Try it again the following week and see how long it takes you. You’ll up your endurance the more you go.

    15-minute quick workout

    Lunge to overhead press

    Start in a standing position, with your weights held at shoulder length. Lunge backwards, then step forward, simultaneously lifting the weights overhead. That’s one rep.

    Gorilla renegade rows

    Get onto all fours, with weight evenly distributed throughout. Now raise your knees off the ground and feel your core engage. Grip your dumbbells and lift one into a row. Switch hands and lift the other weight. That’s one rep.

    Push-up to burpee

    With your weights in your hands, get into a push-up position, legs hip-width apart. Bend into a push-up, then straighten all the way up to standing, holding your weights as you do. That’s one rep.

    Dumbbell snatch

    Let your weights be at your feet and start in the standing position. Bend down and snatch and grab one weight, then, in one fluid motion, raise the weight overhead, being sure to brace your core and keeping feet on the ground. Lower the weight back to the floor. That’s one rep.

    Overhead Russian twist

    Start in a seated position, with your legs in front of you and knees slightly bent. Pick up one weight and lift it overhead to lower on your opposite side, like a rainbow. That’s one rep.

    Watch Sherneal perform the moves here:

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    I Followed This One Rule for a Year and It Changed My Body (and My Life)

    The fitness industry is riddled with misinformation and contradictions surrounding how to get fit, gain strength, and attain optimal health, so figuring out exactly how to look and feel your best is typically overwhelming. That’s why I took one full year to try my hand at the one piece of fitness advice that made sense to me, and the results were astounding.
    A little background: I always thought running was the only way for me to stay in shape. I liked the way my body looked when I ran, and I knew exactly what I needed to do to achieve the level of fitness I wanted. However, when running became more of a chore than a chance to be my best self, I found myself using any excuse to stay on the couch. After tons of trial and error (and time and money), I found the one fitness rule that worked. After following it for a year, both my body and my life changed drastically.
    That advice? The best workout is the one you’re most excited to do.
    So simple yet so effective, this one rule about ignoring the noise of what’s “best” and focusing on what’s getting you most fired up is by far the best piece of advice I’ve ever gotten. Not only will following this “do what sets your soul on fire” rule keep you excited and engaged on your fitness journey, but it will also help you discover which parts of fitness you’re most passionate about. Whether you can’t get enough of running, strength training, cycling, boxing, barre, or the Taylor Swift treadmill workout, here are three reasons why following your heart (instead of that Instagram influencer or the workout that claims to burn optimal calories) is actually the best way to achieve your goals.

    Consistency is key
    Any workout you can commit to is better than one you skip. By doing something you love, you’re way more likely to be consistent, and consistency is the number one way to achieve your goals. If you’re simply no longer feeling what you’ve been doing or have the urge to change up your routine, follow your instinct and explore other options! Not only could you reignite your passion for your workout, but you might also discover something new that you love.

    Getting “fit” requires progressive overload
    Getting toned, getting stronger, increasing endurance, or whatever buzzy term you’re striving for actually boils down to progressive overload, or a consistent increase in the demand placed on the body. In other words, in order to improve, you’ve always got to be leveling up your workouts, whether that’s by using heavier weights, moving faster, or including more complicated movement patterns. Not only will doing something you’re excited about make it easier to challenge yourself, but switching up what you’re doing is a great way to increase the demand on your body while also having fun.

    Fitness is a lifestyle, not a task on a to-do list
    If your workout feels like something you need to check off your list of things to do, it’s time for a change. An exciting and inspiring workout will bleed into other areas of your life, such as nutrition choices and dedication to your mental health, so making a workout that you truly love a part of your everyday life is a surefire way to improve many other areas of your wellness as well. No matter what fitness trend shows up on your “For You” page or what class a friend swears helped them get toned, there is no workout better than the one you’re excited to do. Consistently moving your body is more effective than doing the “perfect” workout occasionally (which doesn’t exist, BTW).

    I Spent Hours Doing Cardio and Saw No Results—Here’s What Actually Changed My Body More