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      Essential Gear For Any Active Vacay

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      If your idea of a perfect getaway involves a bit more adrenaline and a lot less lounging, then join the club. Chamain van Zyl, our online editor and hiking enthusiast, knows the drill: “Spontaneous bushveld strolls and local trail scouting? Count me in!”

      Plus, a foray into nature reaps health benefits, too. In a 2020 study published in the Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy, researchers discovered a significant correlation between outdoor mindfulness and two key components of human well-being: positivity and life satisfaction. The study underscores the impact of mindful experiences in natural settings on individuals’ emotional well-being and overall life contentment. So, if you’re still wondering why you should hit the trails and discover the great outdoors, these articles might help:

      Beyond the basics

      We’ve crafted a guide for your upcoming adventure—packed with action cameras, versatile gear and all the outdoor essentials you never knew you needed. Happy shopping!

      Hiking or Trail Running

      GoPro Hero 10 Black

      Capture the heart-pounding moments of your hiking, running, surfing, cycling and all the epic adventures with the GoPro Hero 10. Don’t miss a single second of the action!

      Garmin vívoactive® 5

      Keep a vigilant eye on your body battery this holiday season. Remember to prioritise much-needed rest and recovery after each exhilarating session. Your body’s your most valuable adventure tool!

      Salomon Active Skin 8 

      Whether it’s a quick run or a day-long hike, this hydration vest offers ultimate comfort with its soft, snug fit and breathability. Plus, enjoy modular storage and clever chest pockets for quick access to your flasks.

      USN Vooma Bar Almond & Honey Nougat

      Get hooked on these delectable USN nougat bars! Not only do they taste AMAZING, but they also give you the ‘vooma’ you need during your action-packed activities. It’s the perfect on-the-go fuel!

      PUMA X Liberty Women’s Crop Top

      It’s not just about hiking; it’s about hiking in both style and comfort. A sports bra ensures the utmost support for your adventure. After all, we need to look after the girls on any trip!

      READ MORE: 3 Things To Look For When Buying A Hiking Backpack (Plus, 8 Amazing Ones To Buy Right Now)

      Women’s UA RUSH™ Energy 2.0 Short Sleeve

      This top not only fits like a dream, but it helps you stay dry, stay energised and conquer every PB on your journey!

      Ladies X-Trail Waterproof Running Jacket

      Don’t let unpredictable weather keep you from the trails. Stay cool, dry and protected with the Ladies X-Trail lightweight jacket. It’s designed for the most demanding conditions and easily packs into your hydration pack. Be unstoppable, rain or shine!

      Kitchen Think Gadget Set

      Marshmallow on a stick is so last season. For the outdoor foodie, this self-stacking nesting gadget set is a game-changer. Enjoy brie and fig sarmies on your hike with a swivel peeler, mini grater, pizza cutter, bottle opener and grinder.

      adidas Terrex Speed Flow Trail Running Shoes

      Your adventure’s best friend. Designed for racing on any terrain and in all conditions, these shoes offer comfort and grip with a breathable mesh upper and a cushioned, lightweight midsole. Stay sure-footed on wet rocks and roots with the Continental™ Rubber outsole.

      Falke Silver Cushion Runner

      Never underestimate the importance of quality socks. Choose the right fit, just like the right shoes, for a blister-free experience.

      READ MORE: 24 Best Fitness Gifts For The Gym Lover In Your Life

      Thule AllTrail X 15L

      Whether you’re hauling snacks, jackets, or more, this versatile waxed canvas backpack can handle it all. It’s equally at home on the trail as it is in the city, ensuring you’re ready for any adventure that comes your way.

      Women’s UA Run Elite 2-in-1 Shorts

      What’s an adventure without comfy shorts? These have an expandable pocket to secure your phone without the bounce, making them perfect for runners who like to stay connected.

      Mountain Biking

      Specialized Women’s Camber Comp Carbon

      You cannot go wrong with Specialized! This bike is designed to give women the ultimate trail experience, offering speed, efficiency, and assured handling both uphill and downhill. Get ready to ride like never before!

      Assos® Uma GT Evo | Women’s Half Shorts

      “I prefer shorts over bib shorts, it’s just easier to get out of when nature calls. [chuckles]” says Chamain van Zyl, Digital Editor. Picking the right pair of cycling shorts is crucial to keep your comfort levels high and your bum happy on those long rides.

      Ciovita Nucleo Sport Fit Cycling Jersey

      Look as cool as your ride while tearing up the trails! The Nucleo Sport Fit Cycling Jersey offers a relaxed sport-fit style with slightly longer sleeves. It also packs an expandable pocket for extra storage, reflective trims for visibility and a secure elasticated back hem. Style and function in one!

      Fizik Ladies Terra Ergolace X2 Mountain Bike Shoe

      These gorgeous mountain bike shoes offer an anatomical fit for ultimate comfort. Plus, they feature an X2 outsole with Vibram grip for superior traction both on and off the bike.

      READ MORE: 10 Reasons Why You Should Take Up Cycling In 2023

      Giro Radix Cycle Helmet

      Safety is non-negotiable! Protect yourself with the Giro Radix Cycle Helmet, built to deliver toughness, protection, durability, and style. Your trusted companion for a thrilling ride through the trails.

      ILoveBoobies Tropical Socks

      Don’t forget to match your kit with cute socks! These tropical socks by I Love Boobies aren’t just adorable; they’re functional and for a fantastic cause. For every five pairs of socks sold, one breast cancer screening is paid for.

      Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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      The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 Might Be The Bounciest Running Shoe We’ve Tried

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      When it comes to running, a number of factors come into play that determine how much you’ll get out of that 5K sprint (or let’s be honest – light jog). There’s how well you hold yourself – too far forward and you’ll be going slowly, too far back and it’s the same. There’s your cadence, pace and other measurable variables. But one that only gets measured by how much pain you experience? Your bouncy running shoe. Too tight and you’ll cramp. If it’s too loose, you’ll get no support. Too soft and you’ll hurt your knees. But we have found a winner! 

      When shopping for a running shoe, we know we need to look at arch support, ankle support and something light and springy. The *new* New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 delivers all that and then some. It’s incredibly light and so bouncy you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re walking on reinforced marshmallows.

      New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080

      The Specs

      Get comfort for your feet with this shoe. It cushions the foot perfectly, while still being versatile for everyday life. A midsole is built for smooth transitions from the landing to push-off (so you’re flying) and a second-skin style mesh upper provides breathability that’s supportive around the ankle. Plus, choose your preferred fit, from a standard shoe or wider shoe.

      READ MORE: How Do You Know When It’s Time To Replace Your Running Shoes?

      What it’s good for 

      Touted as your go-to everyday shoe, this gorgeous runner goes beyond cradling your foot while trying to ace your next PB. It’s been designed to be worn while running errands, shopping, walking, the whole nine yards. “As a mostly barefoot person (hello, WFH attire), I relished this shoe in all its softness as I padded around the house and did my morning walks. Light and airy, it also looks great with a pair of jeans and a plain white top,” says Michelle October, WH Features Ed. 

      READ MORE: The ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 30: The Shoe That Will Make You Love Running Again

      We tried the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080

      WH Features Editor Michelle October took the shoes for a run.

      “The shoe is next-level bouncy and responsive on the road. I tried it out on a run and felt like I was flying through my route. Because the shoe is so soft, I expected it to have minimal support around the ankle – I have weak ones – but that wasn’t the case. The forefoot is reinforced and ultra-supportive, making it perfect for long runs. It’s also got a light, airy upper that leaves your foot able to breathe as you take on your run. I loved that it gave me back what I pounded into the pavement and the bounce back definitely takes a load off your knees when running. Overall, a shoe I’d buy in an instant.”  More

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      Under Armour Drops 2024 Gear – And We Are Obsessed!

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      Step into the future with Under Armour’s 2024 tech and product range, where innovation and style collide to empower athletes of all levels. From groundbreaking baselayers to premium sportswear and cutting-edge running shoes, Under Armour is bringing their a-game to help you reach your peak performance.

      Told through an immersive fit – the brand highlights three areas of focus in the year to come:

      Baselayer – For the Heat and Cold.

      Unstoppable Collection – Be Unstoppable. Born from performance. Made for style.

      Infinite – The Run Category Collection.

      Baselayer Tech

      Under Armour’s 2024 collection places a significant focus on baselayer technology, which saw the unveiling of new Heatgear, Coldgear, Iso-Chill and Authentics apparel. These cutting-edge baselayers are designed to offer a next-to-skin fit, regulating temperature and providing essential support for every athlete. 

      The baselayer product offerings included:

      HG Armour Tee (feel cool, dry and light)

      CG Armour (feel warm, dry and light)

      HG Armour Iso-Chill (Makes you cooler so you can work longer).

      All of which exemplify the commitment to moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties, ensuring athletes feel powerful and perform at their best. With key benefits such as a next-to-skin fit which regulates temperature, these items are a must-have for every athlete. But, that’s not all. They’re light and tight which makes you feel more powerful so you can work out for longer.

      READ MORE: We Tested The NEW Under Armour Iso-Chill Range With Running Late Club

      Unstoppable Collection

      This is a premium sportswear line designed for athletes who want to look good, feel confident and perform at their peak. It’s described as a “clean, premium and a future-looking sports style.” Feeling confident and unstoppable is the emotional impact of wearing the product. Designed with UA performance technology and crafted from premium materials, the gear is not only comfortable and stylish but also enhances one’s overall performance. The woven fabric, enhanced with an EcoStorm finish, ensures superior comfort and durability, with the jackets composed of 90% Polyester and 10% Elastane, and the bottoms available in 100% Polyester or 90% Polyester/10% Elastane options. 

      The Unstoppable Woven Jackets

      These represent a fusion of style and functionality, catering to the needs of today’s active lifestyle with an elevated and versatile sportswear design. Ideal for post-workout recovery, travel, and everyday activities, these jackets feature a woven fabric with an EcoStorm finish, ensuring superior comfort and durability. The trendy jacket silhouettes not only offer a contemporary look but also incorporate elements of sports heritage DNA, adding a distinctive touch to the design. The jackets boast a loose fit, providing comfort and ease of movement, along with practical pockets for added functionality. The inclusion of PU matte logos adds a touch of sophistication, making these jackets a stylish and practical choice for individuals leading an active lifestyle.

      The Unstoppable Woven Bottoms

      Crafted with woven fabrics featuring an EcoStorm finish, these bottoms ensure superior comfort and durability. The design showcases cargo and wide-leg silhouettes, combined with an elevated aesthetic with elements of sports heritage DNA. Evident attention to detail shines through with the oversized fit for wide-leg pants, loose fit for cargo styles, convenient pockets and incorporation of PU matte logos.

      READ MORE: 24 Best Fitness Gifts For The Gym Lover In Your Life

      Infinite

      Let’s talk shoes, a popular offering in the Under Armour staple. It was announced that a key focus for 2024 is their Infinite Shoe range, with special attention being placed on the UA Infinite Pro, UA Infinite and UA Elite – elevating your running experience like no other. 

      UA Infinite Pro

      Designed to deliver an elevated and comfortable running experience, the UA Infinite Pro incorporates various tech features. The tongue and collar lining provide added comfort, ensuring a snug fit without irritation. The shoe prioritises heel impact reduction for smooth landings and enhanced overall stability. Its outsole is intelligently designed for a balance of durability and lightweight rebound. The engineered upper, with zonal structures and 3D haptic print detailing, offers breathability and containment. A high-resiliency premium sock liner cradles the foot, enhancing step-in comfort. The lightweight Pebax foam in the midsole contributes to soft landings and exceptional springiness, providing excellent energy return. The one-piece bead foam midsole, softer, lighter, and more flexible, ensures a plush and bouncier underfoot experience for runners.

      UA Infinite

      The UA Infinite offers an exceptional running experience with its Deluxe Comfort System, featuring an Ortholite sock liner and PU strobel underfoot for ultimate step-in comfort. The full-length, unwrapped HOVR technology ensures lightweight cushioning and high rebound responsiveness, propelling the runner forward. The Circular Knit full-length upper contributes to breathability, durability, and lightweight containment. Additionally, the shoe is equipped with a durable rubber outsole that provides traction and durability. This ensures proper flexibility for an efficient toe-off during each stride.

      UA Infinite Elite

      The UA Infinite Elite promises an uninhibited running experience with its resilient and springy core. The updated outsole design features wider gauges and a reinforced heel for added guidance, flexibility, and efficient dispersion of impact forces, ensuring a smooth ride. HOVR+ cushioning, higher midsole heights, and intelliknit upper technology combine for an undeniably plush feel, providing a dynamic fit. Notable features include a pull tab for easy entry, premium branding for heel support and an outsole designed for a balance of durability and lightweight rebound.

      The knit upper materialisation provides a precision 1:1 fit with micro details. While a high-resiliency premium sock liner enhances step-in comfort. The full-length, one-piece bead foam midsole contributes to a softer, lighter, and more flexible underfoot experience, promising runners a smoothed-out ride with amplified energy return and increased overall stability.

      For more information, visit https://underarmour.co.za or download the Under Armour app on Google Play or the Apple Store, today! More

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      On The Flip Side With Samsung

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      The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 is the latest and greatest foldable phone on the market and WH was fortunate enough to get an exclusive sneak peek to explore all its incredible tech wonders. Let me tell you, it’s nothing short of amazing!

      As soon as I laid my eyes on it, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia from the early 2000s when flip phones were all the rage. Alongside those lowrise jeans and chunky knotted necklaces, the Galaxy Z Flip5 is a true throwback to a time we thought was long gone.

      But don’t be fooled; this phone is not merely a blast from the past. It’s here to revolutionise the way you live, encouraging you to embark on a wellness journey in style. Let me share some of my favourite features:

      Comprehensive health tracking: Monitor fitness progress and vital stats with ease.

      Camera access from watch: Remotely control and utilise your phone’s camera directly from your smartwatch, ensuring you never miss a precious moment.

      Seamless integration: The phone, watch and earbuds work in harmony to enhance your wellness journey.

      Health-enhancing apps: Access tools for calorie tracking, hydration, stress management and more.

      Stress reduction: Use guided breathing exercises and relaxation features to manage stress.

      Quality sleep tracking: Gain insights into sleep patterns for improved rest.

      Water and dust resistance: The phone stays protected in various environments.

      Impressive battery life: Dependable power for all-day adventures.

      Compact and portable: Fits easily in your pocket for on-the-go activities.

      It’s technically fun!

      Capture every moment with precision

      Now, you’re probably wondering, “How’s the camera?” After all, we’re the ones snapping pictures on hikes, runs and adventures, right? Well, the Galaxy Z Flip5 boasts a 10MP front camera and two 12MP lenses at the back. But that’s not all; it even offers night mode photography, which is a game-changer for those exhilarating night runs through the city.

      Pocket-sized tech for your active lifestyle

      “This little pocket-size device fits perfectly into my running belt,” says Chamain van Zyl, WH Digital Editor. “If you don’t have access to the watch and you want to run with your phone, it is super compact.” It’s your ideal companion for hiking, cycling, or any adventure you embark on. 

      Selfies never looked so good

      Let’s talk about the front screen, dubbed the FlexCam. No more flipping open your phone to capture that perfect selfie. You can effortlessly utilise the powerful 12MP cameras and see exactly how your shots will turn out without the hassle of constant retakes.

      Plus, the camera syncs seamlessly with the Galaxy Watch6, letting you capture selfies and videos right from your wrist. It’s the ultimate tool for jet-setting influencers and on-the-go adventurers.

      “I must say, the FlexCam is a game-changer for me. It’s a feature I didn’t know I needed until I tried it,” says Chamain. “The convenience of capturing the perfect selfie with a live preview, all while syncing seamlessly with the Galaxy Watch6 is simply remarkable. It’s like having your personal photographer on your wrist, ensuring you’re always in the frame and looking your best. I can’t imagine going back to the old way of taking selfies after experiencing this level of ease and innovation.”

      Stress-reducing features and sleep monitoring

      Wellness isn’t just about physical health; it’s also about managing stress and getting quality rest. 

      The Galaxy Z Flip5 offers stress-reduction features like guided breathing exercises and relaxation techniques, helping you unwind after a hectic day. 

      “I absolutely loved the breathing exercises! I incorporated them into my daily routine, setting short 1-minute intervals that I could easily squeeze into even the busiest of days,” says Chamain. “What impressed me the most was how tangible the results were. I had been grappling with a high stress level, symbolized by a persistent red bar on my device. But with consistent use of these exercises, I witnessed a remarkable shift. It was as though my stress levels were responding in real time to the calming power of controlled breathing. Gradually, the ominous red gave way to a much more reassuring green-orange hue.”

      Additionally, the Galaxy Watch6 offers sleep tracking, so you can gain insights into your sleep patterns and improve your sleep quality. This holistic approach to wellness addresses not only your physical health but also your mental and emotional well-being.

      Powerful wellness trio

      The Galaxy Z Flip5, Galaxy Watch6 and Galaxy Buds2 work together as a powerful wellness trio. The phone pairs effortlessly with the watch, allowing you to monitor your fitness progress in real time. I could track my heart rate, sleep patterns, steps and more, all while staying connected to the phone. 

      The Galaxy Watch6 syncs with fitness apps, helping you keep tabs on your goals and making it easier to lead a healthy, active lifestyle. And with the Galaxy Buds2, you can listen to your favourite workout playlist while staying aware of your surroundings, ensuring a safe and enjoyable exercise experience.

      Health-enhancing apps and features

      The phone comes pre-loaded with an array of health and wellness apps that cater to your well-being. Whether it’s tracking your daily calorie intake, monitoring your hydration levels, or even managing stress through mindfulness and meditation apps, this phone offers a comprehensive wellness toolkit. 

      The Galaxy Watch6 complements this with advanced fitness tracking, including GPS for accurate outdoor workouts and ECG monitoring for heart health. These features empower you to take control of your health and achieve your wellness goals more effectively.

      Music and motivation on the go

      You can easily access your favourite workout playlists on your phone and play them through your Galaxy Buds2, which offers rich sound quality and stays snug during even the most intense workouts. 

      The Galaxy Watch6 also has music storage and playback capabilities, eliminating the need to carry an additional device during your runs or workouts. 

      “Another amazing feature that I simply can’t get enough of! You can enjoy your favourite music through the watch and earbuds while running, doing chores, and you don’t even need your phone!” says Chamain.

      It’s the ultimate combination for the modern woman on the move, making the Samsung Z Flip5 an invaluable addition to your active lifestyle. More

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      10 Reasons Why Upgrading Your Smartwatch Matters

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      Feeling stuck with your trusty X2000 smartwatch from way back when? Well, hold onto your wristbands because we’ve got 10 irresistible reasons to upgrade! 

      I can practically hear your inner sceptic saying, “Another upgrade? Seriously?” But let me tell you, I recently got my hands (or should I say, my wrist) on the Garmin Epix Pro and it was like stepping into the future. Suddenly, my old watch felt as outdated as a Tamagotchi in a world of supernatural, super-smart lifeforms.

      This isn’t just about splurging on a shiny new gadget; it’s about making a savvy investment in your health and overall well-being.

      1. Body Battery 

      You might not know it, but your watch does. The new Garmin can tell you exactly when you need to slow down and rest and when you can go back at it. Proper rest and recovery is vital for your training and getting the most out of your sweat sessions. 

      2. Sleek and Stylish 

      Farewell to the era of chunky wrist bling! This watch is like the undercover style agent of smartwatches. It may look like it means business, but once it graces your wrist, you’ll feel its featherlight charm. With its sleek vibes and the power to don different fashion personas with its customisable watch faces, it’s the fashion-forward chameleon that effortlessly swings from gym mode to glam mode!

      3. Long Battery Life 

      The Epix Pro boasts an extended battery life, which is essential for outdoor adventures that might last several days. This reduces the need for frequent recharging, giving you more time to focus on your activities.

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

      4. Multi-Sport Functionality

      The Epix Pro supports a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to swimming and skiing. It provides specific metrics and data tailored to each sport, helping you analyse your performance and progress.

      In Our Pilates Era

      If you’re into yoga or Pilates, this smartwatch offers enhanced metrics that cater specifically to these activities, helping you refine your techniques and achieve better results.

      5. Tailored Fitness Tracking 

      The Epix Pro offers specialised fitness tracking features that cater to women’s health, such as menstrual cycle tracking, which helps in understanding patterns and optimising your training around hormonal changes.

      6. Comprehensive Health Insights

      With features like stress tracking, sleep monitoring and hydration reminders, the watch provides holistic insights into your well-being, helping you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

      READ MORE: The Garmin Fēnix® 7 Pro And Epix™ Pro Are Here

      7. Staying Connected

      Stay connected without being constantly glued to your phone. The watch offers smart notifications, allowing you to keep track of important messages, calls and appointments while on the go. Plus, you can listen to music and use your watch to pay!?

      8. Safety Features

      For added security during solo adventures, the Epix Pro includes safety features like incident detection and assistance alerts, ensuring that you’re always connected and safe, no matter where you are.

      9. Engaging Fitness Challenges

      The watch offers various fitness challenges and competitions via the app, providing an extra layer of motivation to stay active. You can connect with friends for friendly challenges, making fitness more fun and engaging.

      READ MORE: This Full-Body Bodyweight Workout Builds All The Muscle

      10. Customised Workouts

      The watch allows you to create and follow customised workouts. If you have specific fitness goals, it tailors exercises to suit individual preferences and needs. You can download the app, register your watch and get access to a massive library of workouts. 

      Smartwatches On Our Radar

      epix™ Pro (Gen 2) – Sapphire Edition | 42 mm

      Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2)

      The Garmin epix™ Pro (Gen 2) is a top-tier choice for those seeking an advanced GPS smartwatch. Its cutting-edge features and rugged design make it a standout option for outdoor enthusiasts.

      Multisport versatility

      Advanced health monitoring

      Connectivity and compatibility

      It has a built-in flashlight!

      Garmin fēnix® 7S – Solar Edition

      Garmin fēnix 7S

      The Garmin fēnix® 7S is an excellent choice for upgrading your current watch. Its sleek design, advanced features and robust performance are just a few reasons we love it.

      Multi-sport options

      Advanced health insights

      Long-lasting battery

      Women’s health tracking

      Detailed performance metrics

      Polar Grit X Pro Premium

      Polar Grit X Pro Premium

      Designed to conquer any environment, the Polar Grit X Pro combines military-grade durability with sapphire glass for exceptional toughness and scratch resistance. With its ultra-long battery life and precise optical heart rate tracking, it’s a reliable partner for your outdoor pursuits. Offering turn-by-turn guidance and powerful built-in GPS, it ensures you always know your way.

      Exceptional battery life

      Comprehensive health metrics

      Stylish designs

      Robust durability

      Suunto 9 Peak Pro – Pearl Gold

      Suunto 9 Peak Pro

      The Suunto 9 Peak Pro, priced affordably, offers exceptional value for those looking to upgrade their watch. Suunto’s reputation for crafting exceptional diving and water sport timepieces is reflected in this powerful multisport watch, boasting extended battery life and military-grade durability. Furthermore, its sleek, thin and timeless design adds an aesthetic allure to its impressive functionality

      Robust durability

      Exceptional battery life

      Advanced navigation

      Comprehensive health metrics

      Sports mode diversity (over 95 sports modes!)

      The Bottom Line

      The decision to upgrade ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences and budget, of course. Consider how these reasons align with your goals and activities to determine if you’re due for an upgrade. 

      P.S. If you’re still not convinced, I encourage you to try out the Epix Pro for yourself. You might just be surprised at how much you love it! More

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      Epic Rides From The Comfort Of Home With The New Garmin Smart Bike

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      Bring the outdoor world indoors when you train. The newest smart bike by Garmin delivers a realistic road feel and simulated descents — plus virtual shifting to immerse you in your ride. Redesigned shifters change gears easily and precisely with the tap of a finger. NEO Bike Plus adjusts to match the fit of your outdoor bike exactly, with stem and seat measurements in millimetres and five crank lengths.

      Get the feel of a real ride. Anytime.

      Tacx NEO Bike Plus is simple to use and always ready to ride. With accurate power, speed and cadence metrics — even in sprints — and nearly silent operation, you can crush your goals in any room. Plus, simple adjustments make it easy to share with other athletes in your household.

      READ MORE: The Garmin Fēnix® 7 Pro And Epix™ Pro Are Here

      Simulated riding. Precision training:

      Feel different road surfaces, such as cobblestone and gravel, when paired with the Tacx® Training smart-device app or other compatible apps.

      IMPROVED! Tap updated shifters to change gears with the precision and feel of electronic shifting. You’ll find the correct gear easily and quickly with shifters programmable for SHIMANO, SRAM or Campagnolo.

      Feel the sensation of your chain jumping into a different gear while shifting to experience more of your ride.

      Dynamic inertia maintains a sensation of forward motion based on your speed and gradient to make your ride feel more realistic.

      Drive downhill with descent simulation when the smart bike is connected to an external power source.

      Use built-in dual power meters to measure the position of your left and right legs and break down your pedalling technique to help you develop a more effective stroke.

      Keep track of your performance and progress with reliable power, speed and cadence measurements, accurate to within 1%.

      Hammer hard with the well-balanced design, even during the most explosive sprints, up to 2200 watts.

      Make your workout more intense by training on realistically simulated inclines up to a 25% gradient.

      Customizable. To share the experience:

      Ride in comfort with the updated seat post and match your outdoor bike fit with easy-to-adjust seat-post settings.

      NEW! Choose among 5 crank lengths for a precision fit, with your choice of pedals.

      IMPROVED! Ensure correct sizing with easily adjustable seat position and handlebar stem with measurement scale in millimetres.

      READ MORE: Train Brilliantly With The Garmin Forerunner® 265 GPS Running Smartwatch

      Connect with your training program:

      Enjoy the Tacx Training app and track your performance on your Garmin Edge® cycling computer (sold separately) at the same time. Tacx NEO Bike Plus can connect to multiple devices simultaneously.

      Pair with popular training apps such as TrainerRoad and Zwift; Tacx NEO Bike Plus communicates via BLUETOOTH® Smart technology and ANT+® FE-C protocol.

      No device to pair? No problem. In stand-alone mode, it simulates a flat road; the faster you ride, the higher the resistance.

      Experience the rush of riding famous courses in Europe, North America and Asia with more than 250+ high-quality, real-life videos on the Tacx Training app1. You can even join “Ride with the Pros” challenges with exclusive Garmin-sponsored team videos.

      Get help meeting your goals with a structured training plan designed for your fitness level with the Tacx Training app — plus race live opponents, upload GPS data, ride with 3D maps and more.

      Power up your devices with built-in USB chargers.

      Stay cool with built-in interactive fans that are automatically controlled by your power and heart rate. More

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      I Tried Out BodyTec’s Brand-New EMS Training System – And It’s From The Future

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      Whether you’re a seasoned professional in fitness or are just looking to elevate your routine, EMS training can be intriguing. What do those high-tech suits do? Can they really boost your training? All that and more, right here. Plus, we took EMS training for a spin with the brand new BodyTec SYMBIONT system, which offers deeper insights from your workout in real-time.

      First, let’s look at the basics of EMS training.

      What is EMS training?

      EMS, or Electro Muscle Stimulation, is a novel way to get your muscles working. As you’re doing basic exercise moves, you’re plugged into a suit with low-level electrical impulses that are sent directly to your muscles for deeper activation than you’d get with weights. “EMS technology allows for up to 90% of muscles to be activated simultaneously with the contractions reaching a much higher intensity than those done voluntarily,” says Sandra Leyck, Co-Founder and spokesperson for BodyTec.

      Is EMS training a tough workout?

      You’ll find yourself sweating while doing something really basic, like bending down into a squat. That’s because your muscles are working that much harder than when you’re using just your bodyweight or even with weights added, per some studies.

      Does EMS training burn fat?

      As with any exercise, EMS training targets your muscles. Muscles don’t burn fat directly, but they require energy to maintain. By growing muscle groups, you allow them to burn more calories. Since BodyTec’s EMS training suit targets all the major muscle areas, including the back, arms, legs, butt and abs, you’re working all the major muscle groups, allowing them to grow and fire up their fat-burning potential.

      Why just one session a week?

      Your muscles, which are heavily activated during the workout (reportedly more than in traditional workouts) need rest to recover. For this reason, it’s recommended to only do EMS training once a week.

      What’s the new BodyTec SYMBIONT System?

      “With BodyTec’s shift to the SYMBIONT Smart Training System, they are changing the way people track, train, and transform their bodies,” says Leyck. “This state-of-the-art technology combines advanced symbiont technology with personalised training programs, offering an unparalleled workout experience.”  

      The new system means a new suit for the experience – completely wireless and loadshedding friendly. With each move, electronic impulses are sent to your muscles via vibrations that penetrate deeply for more muscle activation as you move. You also get live feedback on your reps from a screen that tracks your workout. The best part? You’re in and out in under 30 minutes, with just 20 minutes of work.  

      We tried EMS training with BodyTec

      WH Features Editor Michelle October took the brand-new SYMBIONT system for a spin.

      “The new suit looks like something from Ironman. Outside, it’s all fabric and stretchy, while the inside contains electro pads and high-tech wireless plug-ins that activate the suit. My trainer helped me prepare the suit, which should be rubbed down with lotion so the conduction pads can deeply penetrate the muscle for better activation.

      “Notably, the suit is completely wireless, so you have much higher range of motion. You are not plugged in, like other EMS suits. The entire setup is loadshedding friendly, too, but still allows for real-time monitoring, allowing you to track your work.

      After getting suited up, I was taken through a brief test run of the equipment. Electrical impulses are sent through the suit wirelessly and I could feel my muscles being contracted while doing basic squats. On the screen in front of me, I could monitor the intensity of the electronic pulses while working out and see how much longer the pulses would last – about 20 seconds of work, with a few seconds break in between moves.

      The entire workout lasted just 20 minutes, but I was panting towards the end. That’s because my muscles were working so hard to contract with the EMS suit. Overall, I still felt my arm muscles a few days after the workout, even though I had just been lifting them over my head with no weights. I’d say it’s an interesting way to work out and an eye-opening experience.” More

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      in fitness and body

      The ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 30: The Shoe That Will Make You Love Running Again

      by

      Runners, rejoice! ASICS has just launched the GEL-KAYANO™ 30 shoe, the most comfortable stability running shoe featuring brand-new technologies to provide runners with adaptive stability and unprecedented comfort during every step.

      4D Guidance System

      With its new 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™, the GEL-KAYANO™ 30 provides adaptive stability and unprecedented comfort during every step. The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ works with the movement of your body to provide support when you need it most, so you can run worry-free.

      In addition to the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™, the GEL-KAYANO™ 30 also features new PureGEL™ technology for the softest landings ever. PureGEL™ is strategically integrated in the midsole to deliver enhanced shock absorption and smoother transitions.

      The GEL-KAYANO™ 30 also has 20 percent more of the lightweight FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning and a 4mm increase in stack height, which further improve the comfort level of the shoe.

      As Rohan van der Zwet, Senior Product Marketing Manager at ASICS EMEA, says, “The GEL-KAYANO™ shoe has been a crowd favourite for many years, and quite frankly is a legend in our product range. We know the stereotypes that stability shoes have faced over the years: clunky, ugly, and simply not comfortable. That’s why we’re excited to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the GEL-KAYANO™ series with such landmark developments. Through our commitment to ASICS’ unique design philosophy, we’ve been able to develop a shoe that offers the stability that consumers have grown to love from the series and added the comfort that we know is so important to runners. Stability truly never felt better and we’re eager to see runners across the globe experience this with the GEL-KAYANO™ 30 shoes.”

      Shop The GEL-KAYANO™ 30

      From 5Ks to full marathons, the GEL-KAYANO™ 30 shoe is designed to provide advanced stability and softer cushioning properties.  ​

      Engineered stretch knit upper 

      Improves breathability

      External back heel counter 

      Helps keep the foot stable and provides a more comfortable stride

      The GEL-KAYANO™ 30 is available from ASICS retail, online stores and specialists running outlets.

      Is this really the most comfortable stability running shoe? Comfort is subjective, so judge for yourself. Try ASICS’ latest product innovation and tell us how running in ASICS makes you feel. To find out more, please visit asics.com More