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

    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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    We Asked A Yoga Instructor For The Best Back Stretches To Tackle Upper And Lower Back Pain

    Back pain? Join the club. Per the KZN Department of Health, some 30 to 40% of South Africans are affected by back pain at some point in their life. Back stretches help, so heed these tips from yogis for the best back stretches to ease out niggles and get that aah-inducing feeling that relieves it all.

    So what causes back pain?

    Back pain is caused by several conditions: arthritis that affects the lower back and spinal cord, osteoporosis (your spine’s vertebrae become brittle), or even muscle and ligament strain caused by repeatedly lifting heavy objects.

    What’s more, sitting at a desk all day causes back pain to intensify. According to UCLA Health, “sitting in a slouched position can overstretch the spinal ligaments and strain the spinal discs”, leading to prolonged pain. Over time, these pains can be intensified. Got a bad posture? You can thank your slumped shoulders for back pain, too. Slumping or slouching loads your back in a way isn’t supported by your spinal structure. The offshoot? “The intricate network of muscles, discs, and joints in your back tend to be pushed beyond their tolerable limit, causing pain,” according to Spine Health.

    The power of back stretches

    Doing back stretches regularly can elongate the back, reduce the stiffness in the muscles supporting the back and improve the range of motion and overall mobility. Also, it could help you maintain a good posture, since the muscles are stretched out and are able to better support a good standing or sitting posture.

    Yoga instructor Amy Hopkins weighed in on a few back stretches that can help with your back pain. Yoga is a popular workout for your rest days or for when you want to stretch or strengthen your muscles. Do these moves in your own flow every day and feel your back unwind.

    Back stretch gear

    These tools can elevate your stretching routine and deliver those aahs.

    Use a foam roller over your back to get some deep tissue massage going.

    Prop a yoga block under your back to release tension and relax your back muscles.

    A yoga mat delivers comfort and helps with slipping while you stretch things out.

    READ MORE: A 4-Week Home Workout Plan To Get Fit And Strong AF

    Get started…

    Start by releasing tension along the spine with a series of Cat and Cow postures. Begin in a tabletop position, hands beneath shoulders, knees beneath hips, on a mat or carpeted surface, fingers spread wide, tops of feet pressed into the mat. Do this slowly, five times each move for a total of 10 long breaths. These stretches bring flexibility into the spine and are great for stretching the back, hips and abdomen. They’re good for relieving lower back pain and sciatica (lower back into hips and butt).

    The Cow Posture

    Inhale as you lift your forehead and eyes to gaze up towards the ceiling.

    Drop the belly as you curl your spine, as if you have a Pilates ball balancing on your back.

    Actively tilting your tailbone upwards will help create the curve.

    The Cat Posture

    Exhale as you round the spine (imagine the ball is beneath you now) and suck your belly button into your spine.

    Press your hands into the mat, creating a lift in your shoulders.

    Drop your head and gaze towards your belly button.

    Actively tip your pelvis forward.

    Come back to a neutral tabletop position to move into the next pose.

    READ MORE: The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

    Back stretches for the upper back

    Child’s Pose With Side Stretch

    From tabletop position, bring your toes together and spread your knees so that each knee is at the edge of the mat.

    Fold forward over your lap and let your belly hang softly between your thighs, arms stretched out in front of you.

    Actively try reach your bum to meet your heels. This elongates the spine. Stay here for five to 10 breaths.

    Walk your left hand over to just outside the left side of the mat. Place your right hand on top of your left, so you really stretch out the right side of the back and shoulders. Hold for five to 10 breaths.

    Move your hands back through the centre, then over to the right side, placing the right hand outside the right side of the mat.

    Place your left hand on top of the right, so you feel a nice stretch along the left side of the back and shoulders. Stay here for five to 10 breaths.

    Thread The Needle Pose (good for the whole back)

    From tabletop position, inhale to lift your right hand up towards the ceiling; as you exhale, thread the needle: bring the right hand and arm through the ‘hole’ you create on the left side with your left arm and left thigh.

    Bring the arm all the way through so you’re lying on your right shoulder and your right cheek and temple are on the mat. Extend the left hand out in front of you so your arms form perpendicular lines. Stay here for five to 10 breaths.

    Walk your left hand back to underneath the left shoulder; inhale as you push up through the left hand, lifting your right hand back up towards the ceiling. Exhale to place the right hand back on the mat, so you’re in a neutral tabletop position.

    Repeat on the other side, starting by inhaling as you lift your left hand towards the sky, and then thread the needle on the other side. Stay here for five to 10 breaths, then come back to tabletop position.

    READ MORE: LISS: A Complete Guide, From What It Actually Is, To Why And When To Do It

    Back stretches for the lower back

    Supine Twist

    Lie on your back, bringing your arms into a T-shape.

    Bring your knees in towards your chest, then slowly release both knees over to the right-hand side.

    Rest your head either facing upwards or looking over your left shoulder.

    Keep both shoulders on the mat and try to keep your knees pressed together. If your top leg lifts up, you can fold a towel and place it between your knees (or use a yoga block).

    Stay here for five to 10 slow breaths. Bring your knees back up to centre and then over to the opposite side. Repeat.

    Sphinx Pose

    Hopkins says that because we spend so much time sitting, our lower backs can take a lot of strain. The Sphinx Pose is a counter-pose to sitting and promotes the natural curvature of the spine, relieving back pain.

    Start by lying on your stomach. Feet hip-width apart and with your forearms on the mat, bring your elbows to rest directly beneath your shoulders.

    Be mindful of the pressure on your lower back – if this is too painful, you can shift your elbows slightly forward.

    Hold the pose to five to 10 slow breaths. Release by lying on your belly, right cheek to the mat.

    You can then move into Child’s Pose to finish off.

    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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    7 Best Lower Back Stretches To Ease Aches And Pain

    There’s nothing more satisfying than finding that ahhh-inducing stretch when you have a tight and achy back — and nothing more maddening than not being able to hit that spot. But doing the best lower back stretches for yourself is important – especially when we sit at a desk all day, or even if we’re on our feet.

    Lower back pain is near-universal — in fact, about 80 percent of people experience it at one point or another, according to the American Chiropractic Association. “Where the spine meets the pelvis is kind of a crash site,” says Patrick Donovan, owner of Heather Lane Physical Therapy.

    Why you should be doing back stretches

    It’s little wonder that this area is a pain point for so many seeing as how the daily habits that commonly cause lower back issues are the ones you likely do often: spending hours hunched over a computer, phone, or steering wheel, which all cause the muscles in the front of your pelvic area to shorten and tighten, too. When the hip flexor muscles are contracted in a seated position, those muscle fibres start to shorten, pulling the pelvis forward and pushing the lower back out of alignment. Translation: weaker — and achier — back muscles.

    You’re probably getting the picture that the more time you spend sitting, the more likely you are to experience lower back pain, but it’s not like you can just stop working a desk job or driving your car. Being mindful of your posture and standing up regularly can help you prevent lower back…but what if you’re already hurting? Stretches can definitely help.

    A quick disclaimer: If you’re experiencing extreme pain or pain that radiates down your leg, talk to a doctor or physical therapist to make sure there’s nothing serious going on — and do that before trying out the stretches below, says Donovan.

    If it’s just everyday aches and pains, here are the 7 best lower back stretches to do at home, ASAP.

    How to: Start in a kneeling position, with shins flat on the ground, butt on heels, knees slightly wider than torso and hands in lap. Walk arms forward to straight on the floor, lower stomach down onto thighs and rest forehead on the floor. Hold for at least 30 seconds.

    READ MORE: The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

    Sphinx Pose

    How to: Start by lying on the stomach with legs extended, elbows bent, upper arms close to ribs and hands planted on either side of the rib cage. Lift chest and walk hands forward so forearms rest on the floor parallel to each other, with elbows beneath shoulders. Press forearms and hands into the floor and tuck tailbone in to engage lower abdominals and support the spine. Lengthen from tailbone through crown of head.

    Hold for at least 30 seconds.

    Thread the Needle

    How to: Start on all fours. Slide the right hand along the floor behind the left wrist until the shoulder is on the floor. Hold for at least 30 seconds. Reverse movement and lift right arm into the air, twisting to gaze up. Repeat on the other side.

    Low Lunge Twist

    How to: Start in a low lunge with the left foot forward between hands and the right leg extended straight back. Draw the left hand straight up overhead toward the ceiling and rotate the torso from the waist to gaze up at it. Hold for at least 30 seconds, then return to low lunge and repeat on the other side.

    Cat/Cow

    How to: Start on hands and knees with elbows and wrists below shoulders, knees below hips and toes untucked. On the inhale, drop your stomach and arch back to lift your tailbone and chest towards the ceiling. Look up. On the exhale, pull the navel to the spine and tuck the chin and pelvis towards the navel to round the spine. (Initiate the movement generated from the tailbone and allow the spine, neck and head to follow.) Repeat for at least 30 seconds.

    READ MORE: LISS: A Complete Guide, From What It Actually Is, To How And When To Do It

    Spinal Twist

    How to: Start lying on the left side with legs bent and both arms straight, the right one resting on top of the left. Keep left arm on the floor and knees pointed toward the left side, then open right arm across the body in line with shoulder, bringing it to rest on the floor on the right side of the mat. Hold for at least 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.

    Seated Spinal Twist

    How to: Start seated with legs crossed. Plant left foot outside of the right thigh, lifting knee as needed. Extend arms up overhead and twist torso to the left, placing right elbow against the outside of the left knee and left hand on the floor behind (but close to) back. On the inhale, lengthen the spine. On the exhale, gently twist lower back, middle back and then upper back to the left. Hold for at least 30 seconds. Then, repeat on the other side.

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

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    10 Best Kettlebell Core Exercises For Strong, Sculpted Abs, From A Trainer

    No offence to sit-ups, planks and hollow holds, but basic core exercises can feel drab day after day. They work the abdominals, but if you’re looking for stronger, sculpted abs, let me introduce you to a secret weapon: the kettlebell. I’m talking about kettlebell core exercises, specifically.

    First things first: “A kettlebell is a cast-iron ball with a handle attached to the top and due to its offset load and centre of gravity, the kettlebell is used to train power, endurance, speed and strength,” says Lauren Kanski, CPT, creator of the Body & Bell program on the Ladder app and a WH advisor. “It’s a very ballistic style of training, but in my opinion, it’s elite if you’re strapped for time and/or financial investment.”

    The kettlebell also adds a fresh spin on core workouts because it uses your entire body, says Kanski. “Many people don’t understand that full-body complex movements are the best options to train the core compared to core-centric exercises,” she explains. And based on the pure versatility of a kettlebell, they allow for a well-rounded workout to build power, strength and endurance in the various movement patterns, all while sculpting your core, she adds.

    Meet the expert: Lauren Kanski, CPT, is the creator of the Body & Bell program on the Ladder app and a WH advisor.

    Another perk? Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or beginner, kettlebell exercises are effective for anyone and everyone, stresses Kanski. These moves are easy to adapt to your goals and level by changing up the load, speed, time under tension, isolation and tempo.

    As for how often you should do kettlebell exercises, Kanski recommends four to five days a week for optimal results. “The best part about the kettlebells is all the goals go hand in hand,” she explains. “You get leaner, stronger and more athletic as you spend time learning the skills.” (Here! For! It!)

    For a killer total-body workout, keep scrolling for Kanski’s picks for kettlebell core exercises.

    10 Best Kettlebell Core Exercises

    Instructions: Pick one lower-body move, one upper-body move and either a windmill or Turkish get-up. Do 3 sets of 10 reps for each of the upper and lower body exercises and 2 sets of 3 reps for the windmill or Turkish get-up.

    Pro tip: Focus on your breath. “Inhale as you move the load toward the floor or brace to lift and exhale as you move the load away from the floor,” Kanski says. “It applies to all main lifts, swings, cleans and snatches because breathing controls the core engagement.”

    1. Kettlebell Goblet Squat

    Why it rocks: Get ready for a total-body torcher because this move works your upper body, lower body and abs, says Kanski. Your core also works extra hard to stabilize your trunk as you squat up and down.

    How to:

    Start standing with feet slightly wider than hip-width apart and hold a kettlebell at chest height with both hands, elbows bent and pointing toward the floor.

    Inhale as you sit hips back and bend knees to lower body until thighs are parallel to the floor, elbows brushing the inside of knees.

    Pause, then exhale as you explosively press through heels and scoop hips forward to return to standing. That’s 1 rep. Do 10 reps.

    2. Kettlebell Renegade Row

    Why it rocks: This an awesome full-body exercise with an upper-body focus, says Kanski. You’ll also work your anti-rotational core which is key for stabilizing your lower back and preventing your hips from rocking side to side, she adds.

    How to:

    Start in a high plank position with kettlebells in each hand, hands directly under shoulders, feet behind you about hip-distance apart (or wider for more stability). Your body should form a straight line from head to toe.

    Inhale and engage core as you slowly draw kettlebell in right hand up to right hip as if you were putting in pocket. Keep elbow close to body and pointing upward.

    Exhale, keep core engaged and body still, as you continue to push through left hand and slowly return weight to the starting position.

    Repeat with the left side. That’s 1 rep. Continue alternating for 10 reps.

    3. Kettlebell Deadlift

    Why it rocks: Not only is this an awesome move for better balance, but you’ll feel it in your hamstrings and glutes, says Kanski. It’s also a functional movement for walking and running gait strength, she adds.

    How to:

    Stand with feet hip-width apart and hold a kettlebell with both hands in front of you, near thighs.

    Engage core, keep back and legs straight, hinge at hips and send butt back as you inhale and lower kettlebell toward the ground. Keep weight in heels.

    Maintain position and lower as far as your flexibility allows, ideally the kettlebell level with the middle of your shins.

    Squeeze glutes, contract hips, engage core and exhale as you drive back to the starting position. That’s 1 rep. Do 10 reps.

    4. Kettlebell Seated Overhead Press

    Why it rocks: This move takes your legs out of the equation and forces you to work your hips, core and upper body, says Kanski. You’ll also notice your triceps engage as you extend the kettlebell overhead, she adds.

    How to:

    Start seated with legs extended, butt on ground, back straight, with a kettlebell in each hand, arms bent, elbows narrow, palms facing inward and weights resting against upper arms.

    Inhale and in one motion, rotate palms away from body and press the kettlebells overhead until arms are straight and biceps are by ears. Squeeze kettlebells tightly so there is no bend in the wrists.

    Exhale as you reverse motion to return to start. That’s 1 rep. Do 10 reps.

    5. Kettlebell Lateral Lunge

    Why it rocks: This move works your frontal plane, which is key for injury prevention, says Kanski. It also targets your inner thighs which are necessary for stabilizing your core.

    How to:

    Start standing with feet under hips holding a kettlebell at chest.

    Inhale and engage core as you take a large step out with the right leg and sit hips back, bending right knee until right thigh is parallel to floor while left leg remains straight, toes of both feet facing forward. Stay tall in the chest and keep kettlebell close to body.

    Exhale and push through the right heel to return to start. That’s 1 rep. Do 10 reps, then switch sides and repeat.

    6. Kettlebell Windmill

    Why it rocks: This is a hip-dominant movement that works your rotational core, says Kanski. You’ll also engage your obliques as you rotate and stabilize the kettlebell overhead.

    How to:

    Start standing with feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointing toward left at a 45-degree angle, with a kettlebell in right hand, right arm extended straight overhead and left arm by side. Keep eyes on the kettlebell.

    Inhale as you rotate chest to the right, look up at the kettlebell and slowly hinge at waist to lower torso toward floor and touch left foot with left fingers, pushing hips back to the right corner of the room. You can bend left knee as much as needed to rotate but keep standing leg straight.

    Pause, then exhale as you reverse motion to return to start. That’s 1 rep. Do 3 slow reps, then switch sides and repeat.

    7. Kettlebell Turkish Get-Up

    Why it rocks: This advanced move packs a punch and works your rotational core, hip strength, grip strength and upper and lower body, says Kanski. It’s also great for promoting overhead mobility and stability, she adds.

    How to:

    Start lying faceup with right leg straight on mat, left leg bent, foot flat on floor, right arm out at the side on floor at 45-degree angle and left arm holding kettlebell above shoulder, triceps on floor and elbow at 45-degree angle from body.

    Raise the weight up above the chest, keeping your gaze on it, until arm is straight but not locked at the elbow.

    Push into the right forearm to sit up.

    Rise onto the right palm, lift hips off floor and slide right leg behind body until kneeling on right knee with shin parallel to top of mat.

    Sweep right foot back behind body to come into kneeling lunge with both legs bent at 90 degrees. Push through feet to stand bringing feet together under hips.

    Reverse entire movement step-by-step to return to start. That’s 1 rep. Do 3 reps, then switch sides and repeat.

    8. Kettlebell Squat To Overhead Press

    Why it rocks: Not only will you feel a burn in your upper and lower body, but this is an “elite” core move since it works your anti-rotational core and builds power in your legs, says Kanski. It’s a win-win.

    How to:

    Start standing with feet shoulder-width apart holding a kettlebell in each hand, arms bent, elbows narrow, palms facing inward and weights resting against upper arms.

    Inhale and lower body down into a squat.

    Engage core and in one motion, exhale as you push through heels to stand, rotate palms to face away from body and explosively press the kettlebell overhead until arms are straight.

    Reverse the movement to return to start. That’s 1 rep. Do 10 reps.

    9. Kettlebell Halo

    Why it rocks: This move is key for stabilizing your abs and promoting 360-degree core strength, as well as improving the range of motion in your shoulder joints, says Kanski. Hello, shoulder mobility!

    How to:

    Start standing with feet hip-width apart holding the handle of a kettlebell with both hands in front of face, elbows bent and wide at sides. Engage core with belly button pulled in toward tailbone.

    Keeping both elbows bent and the rest of the body still, slowly circle the kettlebell around head once, keeping the weight at eye level. That’s 1 rep. Do 10 reps in each direction.

    10. Kettlebell Farmer’s Carry

    Why it rocks: It might look simple, but this move is a full-body exercise that hits the upper and lower body, in addition to your core, says Kanski. It’ll also target the smaller stabilizing muscles as you stay tall and fight the urge to rotate toward the side holding the kettlebell, she adds.

    How to:

    Start standing with feet together, a kettlebell in left hand, arm by side and right hand on hip.

    Engage abs and take a small step forward. Continue stepping one foot in front of the other for a total of 30 seconds. Rest for 30 seconds then repeat on the other side.

    Benefits Of Kettlebell Exercises For Core And More

    1. Build muscle

    If you’re looking to build major muscle, Kanski says kettlebells are your go-to. Because most kettlebell exercises recruit your *entire* body (hello, Turkish get-ups and squat to overhead press), you get more bang for your buck in less time, she adds. You’ll also notice a lot of kettlebell moves promote time under tension which is extremely effective for muscle hypertrophy (AKA an increase in muscle size).

    2. Produce power

    When training with kettlebells, you’re using compensatory acceleration (for example, swinging the bells as quickly as possible) which torches calories and generates extremely high neuromuscular engagement, says Kanski. “The unique shape and offset load also act as an extended lever, which allows you to produce more torque and power,” she explains. As a result, you build explosive power which is key for overall sports performance and muscular endurance.

    3. Train grip strength

    Kettlebells are phenomenal for grip strength and wrist flexion, in turn, supporting shoulder and elbow health and longevity, says Kanski. After all, you have to use your wrists, elbows and shoulders to control the bell while moving through various planes of motion.

    4. Experiment with training variety

    Based on the 10 moves above, it’s clear there’s a wide variety of exercises you can train with a kettlebell, says Kanski. Whether you’re training lower body, upper body, or core, you’ll see major gains with only one kettlebell. They’re also portable and take little space in your home or gym.

    5. Boost cardiovascular activity

    Not only are kettlebells killer for strength gains, but research shows they also increase aerobic capacity. In fact, one study found that kettlebell exercises could significantly improve aerobic capacity to boost cardiovascular fitness.

    This article by Andi Breitowich was first published on Women’s Health US. More

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    The 3 Stretches You Should Be Doing Daily

    Wanna feel more balanced, have fewer aches and pains and stand taller? Here, expert Aaron Smith shares the three stretches you’ll need to add to your repertoire: the laughing baby stretch to release tension, lunge stretch to unlock flexibility and cobra stretch to boost your posture. Get ready to move with newfound ease and grace!

    Pro Tip: To maximise your stretching routine, think about adopting general good habits which will help change your life and feeling of well-being. Include setting your office chair to a height where your feet touch the floor but your knees are not higher than your hips, pelvic floor contractions when driving or brushing your teeth and/or using your legs whilst bracing your abdominals to lift heavy objects and smiling with your collar bones.

    1. Laughing Baby Stretch

    Imagine a baby, laying on its back, holding its feet and laughing whilst it rocks from side to side. This stretch is amazing for helping to stretch the lower back, glutes and hamstrings. Try laying on your back, hold the outer edge of your feet with your hands and bend your knees towards your armpits positioning your elbows inside your knees. Then hold your feet wide apart from each other and lengthen your lower back along the floor. To advance the stretch and target the hamstrings more, you can gently straighten your legs too.

    RELATED: The 14 Yoga Stretches To Do Daily If You Want To Become More Flexible

    2. Lunge Stretch

    The lunge stretch targets your hip flexors (psoas major) and medial quadriceps. Tight hips and quadriceps can contribute to aching backs and slouched postures as they pull your pelvis into a forward, anterior tilt. Lengthening them will help the pelvis sit in a more neutral position reducing tension in the lower back and enabling you to stand taller and prouder.

    Getting down on one knee (as if you were going to propose to your partner!) lean your body weight forward into your front leg, keeping your torso upright and knee at a 90-degree angle over the ankle (move your foot forward if the knee goes past the toes). At this point, you should be feeling a stretch through the front and top of the back leg and to make it a bit juicier, reach your arms above your head and slightly arch your torso back and take long inhalations and exhalations.

    READ MORE: The 8 Best Groin Stretches For Anyone Who Sits All Day Long

    3. The Cobra Stretch

    The cobra stretch lengthens the front of the body and strengthens the many long stabiliser muscles of the spine. This will improve spinal mobility and also help us stand taller and prouder with fewer aches and pains in the back and shoulders.

    Lay on your stomach on the floor, legs out straight, front of the feet flat on the floor (plantar flexion), forehead to the floor hands on the floor under the chest and elbows pinned up to the ribs. Inhale, press the lower body and front of the pelvis to the floor and push the upper body up from the floor, making a gentle backbend and letting the head tilt so that you can see the ceiling. Keep the arms active as they hold you up and keep pressing the lower body to the floor. Exhale, then gently release to the floor and repeat again.

    The article by Nikolina Ilic appeared first on Women’s Health Australia. More

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    LISS: A Complete Guide, From What It Actually Is, To Why And When To Do It

    You’re likely well-versed in HIIT, but how much do you know about LISS, a.k.a. ‘Low Intensity Steady State’ training? Also known as LISS cardio, the low-intensity training includes workouts such as walking, hiking or cycling. And it’s packed full of rewards that you’ll not want to be missing out on.

    So, we’re diving into a full explainer on what LISS is really about, from what LISS cardio is good for, to how to do a LISS workout properly and when to add it to your weekly schedule. Ready?

    1. What is LISS?

    ‘LISS’ stands for Low-Intensity Steady State training, so instead of pushing yourself to breaking point for short bursts, you aim for a lower level of exertion for a long, continuous period of time.

    For many years, LISS was the go-to exercise for burning exercise cals (think long runs and endurance cardio) but when its younger and speedier cousin HIIT (high-intensity interval training) came along, it was quickly relegated to the B-team. The main difference between the two is that in HIIT, you’ll get your heart rate close to max for a matter of seconds before resting and repeating, whereas in LISS your heart rate will rise to a much lower intensity but will be kept there for minutes or even hours. You can see why some people swung to team HIIT – with shorter bursts of exercise needed for health benefits.

    However, those of you that were quick to hang up your walking shoes may have jumped too soon – LISS has a myriad of benefits that shouldn’t be overlooked.

    In fact, a weekly routine that contains both LISS and HIIT workouts might help you hit your goals more quickly than if you were to commit to just one – more on this later.

    2. Benefits of LISS training

    There are myriad benefits to LISS cardio, including:

    Pain elimination

    Posture improvement

    Fat burn

    Improving your body’s cardiovascular capacity

    It’s accessible and scalable to all fitness levels

    Research shows that LISS can be just as beneficial for cardio health as HIIT and that there’s no difference in fat loss between groups who did continuous training and interval workouts.

    3. What are some example LISS workouts?

    LISS training is any low-endurance workout, all at a relaxed level. These can include:

    To be precise, LISS training or LISS cardio is any low-endurance workout that’s around 50-65% of your max heart rate, depending on your fitness level. In other words, you should still be able to hold a conversation whilst performing LISS, so it’s a good form of exercise to do with a friend or the family.

    ‘LISS is important because it breaks up your week,’ WH cover star and PT Kayla Itsines previously explained at Women’s Health‘s Live Virtual event.

    ‘Going for LISS [exercise] is so great for your overall fitness and also for your mind as well,’ she continued. ‘Set a 15-minute timer or a 20-minute timer and go for a walk and when it goes off, come back. It’s a really good way to break up your week and still stay active and motivated to do more.’

    But, for those who strongly dislike walking, cycling or hiking – don’t worry, you’re not alone! – there are some other options to get your LISS-fix:

    ‘A semi-fast yoga class you can do at home,’ is one option according to Itsines. Or, ‘you could even march on the spot while watching TV,’ she suggests.

    Try these LISS workouts:

    A two to five-kilometre walk, aiming for a pace between 8 and 10 minutes per kilometre depending on fitness levels.

    Hopping on a treadmill, cross-trainer or stationary exercise bike for 30-60 minutes at a moderate pace.

    A Vinyasa or ‘flow’ yoga class that keeps your heart rate between 40% and 60% of your maximum.

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    5. LISS vs. HIIT

    Unlike HIIT – where you go balls-to-the-wall switching between max-effort bursts and short recovery periods – LISS is all about exercising at a slow and steady pace that burns fat over other energy sources, such as carbohydrates or food.

    ‘HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) alternates between powerful, limit-pushing bursts and slowed-down recovery periods, while LISS helps you achieve longevity in your training,’ explains Michelle Morrey.

    6. Why is LISS good for fat burning?

    Itsines frequently recommends LISS as part of her training programmes – citing the fact that LISS exercises such as walking burn the most fat per calorie when compared to jogging, running and sprinting.

    ‘In order to metabolise fat the body needs oxygen and the lower the intensity, the more oxygen is available to be used by the body to break down fat,’ Itsines explains. When you’re jogging or sprinting, less oxygen is available meaning that your body will use other energy sources, such as carbohydrates, for energy instead of fat.’

    Bear in mind, however, HIIT does still burn fat, as well as helping with muscle adaptations – plus it burns more calories in a shorter space of time, so if you can’t find the time for a full LISS workout, then HIIT is a great alternative.

    7. How much LISS should I do a week?

    At WH, we encourage you to experiment with your exercises and try out new workouts that will get your heart rate going – do make sure you see your GP if you have a condition, are pregnant, or are feeling under the weather – but working out is also about balance and finding out what’s good for you.

    ‘Ideally, only 20% of your workouts should be high-intensity,’ says Morrey. ‘Whether you’re an Olympic athlete or a mum, it’s the same. Say you work out five times a week, only two sessions should be HIIT. If HIIT is not carefully controlled, it can lead to injury.’

    The good thing about LISS is that it’s an easy, accessible and family-friendly way to keep fit and healthy.

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    8. Who is LISS good for?

    Luke Worthington, PT, Nike trainer and sports scientist, breaks down exactly why LISS isn’t just ‘the easy option out’:

    ‘TypicallyHIIT sessions have appealed to those who are time-poor people who need to fit in a short and effective workout. But, HIIT can actually cause more pressure as it’s a high-stress mode of exercise for the body but also for the mind and the nervous system.”

    So from this perspective, LISS may actually be best for those with stressful lives and could benefit more from a low octane, long duration exercise session that is more calming for the parasympathetic nervous system as well as causing less damage to the body,’ says Worthington.

    Morrey agrees with LISS being something that could benefit the vast majority of people but also something that’s gaining in popularity traction too:

    ‘There’s been a pendulum shift, which I’ve seen all over the world. Sport science is changing, and we’re realising that over-stressing the body is not beneficial and can lead to injury and sickness,’ she says.

    9. So, is LISS cardio good?

    It’s a resounding yes from all experts. In fact, Worthington tells us that he prescribes LISS workouts to almost all of his celebrity clients, including Dakota Johnson. They’ll do ‘LISS cardio, like a 60-minute walk, on non-workout days, around three times a week,’ he tells WH.

    This article by Bridie Wilkins and Morgan Fargo was originally published on Women’s Health UK. More

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    4 Easy Exercises You Can’t Ignore If You’re Walking For Weight Loss

    There’s more to good walking form than standing up straight. Proper foot alignment and a powerful push-off keep you walking longer and stronger. First, use this simple test to find out how fit you are, then make good technique second nature with these exercises from Dr Suki Munseli, developer of Dynamic Walking.

    1. Shirt pull

    Why it’s crucial: Lengthens spine to prevent slumping.

    Cross your arms at the wrists in front of your waist and raise your arms, as if you’re pulling a shirt up and over your head. Grow taller as you reach up. Lower your arms, letting your shoulders drop into place. Repeat frequently during a walk to avoid back tightness.

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

    2. Pendulum swing

    Why it’s crucial: Keeps hips lifted for a smooth stride.

    Holding onto something for support, like the back of a chair, balance on your right leg and swing your left leg forward and backward eight to 10 times without touching your foot to the ground. Repeat, this time swinging your right leg.

    3. Heel-toe roll

    Why it’s crucial: Realigns feet and knees.

    Stand with your feet parallel, one shoe-width apart. With your knees slightly bent, roll from heel to toe eight to 10 times, rocking back and forth down the centre of your feet.

    READ MORE: Walking For Weight Loss: Does It Work? Plus, 9 Tips To Get You There

    4. Kick sand

    Why it’s crucial: Increases push-off power.

    Standing tall, scrape the ground with one foot as if to kick sand behind you, like a dog digging a hole. Use your whole leg, from the hip to the butt. Don’t lean forward too much. Repeat six times on each side.

    Here are five ways to burn more fat during your walking workouts. Plus, we’ve got the beginner guide: how to lose weight with running!

    Originally published in Prevention’s Walking For Weight Loss. More

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    This Simple One-Minute Fitness Test Will Help You Reach Your Goals

    If your goal is to get fitter and stronger, you’re going to need a benchmark. This quick and simple fitness test will show you where you’re at. 

    So. The push-up. It’s an upper-body move that sculpts your arms, right? Correct. But did you know that it also tones your abs and butt? True story! When done correctly, a no-knees push-up is actually a killer total-body toner. Yes, it’s amazing for working your arms and chest (hello, perkier boobs!) but to maintain your body position, you also need to engage your core and squeeze those glutes. Relax the glutes and your bum sticks up in the air. Relax your tummy muscles and you’ll start to sag like you’re humping the ground. Not your most attractive moment.

    READ MORE: This Explosive 15-Minute Workout Gets It All Done – Fast

    The One-Minute Fitness Test

    Since the push-up is such a killer full-body move, it’s also a good way to test your muscle endurance, a key component of muscular fitness.

    Take The One-Minute Push-Up Fitness TestThe test is easy, quick and you can do it at home.

    Set a timer for one minute.

    Do as many push-ups as you can with good form in a minute. The key here is quality over quantity. If you’re losing form, take a quick break, then carry on again. Make a note of how many you were able to clock and see how much better you can get over time.

    Looking for more inspo on your wellness journey? Try one of these 20 Fitness Apps to get started. More