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    This Beginner Callisthenics Workout Builds Serious Strength & Mobility

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

    Why callisthenics workouts are so good

    You can do it anywhere, anytime

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

    It builds killer abs

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

    Callisthenics sculpts your upper bod

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

    How to do this beginner callisthenics workout

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

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

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    1 Frog Stand

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

    2 Wall Walk

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

    3 Dead Bug

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

    4 Hollow-Body Hold

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

    5 Hollow-Body Rock

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

    6 Skin The Cat

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

    Try these workouts next: More

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      Did you know chronically high cortisol can disrupt sleep? 5 ways to combat it

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      1 min ago

      Feeling frazzled? You’re not alone. Daily pressures can send cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, into overdrive.
      For women, chronically high cortisol can disrupt sleep, worsen PMS symptoms, and even contribute to weight gain. But don’t despair! Here are 5 science-backed strategies to keep your cortisol levels in check and your well-being soaring:
      Power Down for Power Up

      Sleep is the ultimate stress soother. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, including winding down electronics at least an hour before bed.
      Why it Works: According to a study published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) journal Psychoneuroendocrinology, just one night of short sleep can significantly elevate cortisol levels.
      Breathe Deeply, De-Stress Completely

      Deep breathing activates the relaxation response, a natural antidote to cortisol’s fight-or-flight effects. Practice belly breathing for just 5 minutes daily. Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your belly expand. Exhale slowly through pursed lips.
      Science Says So: A review published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology highlights the effectiveness of deep breathing in reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
      Nourish Your Body, Tame Your Stress

      A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides sustained energy and minimizes blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger cortisol spikes. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine, which can worsen anxiety and stress.
      Move It or Lose It (the Stress, That Is!)

      Exercise is a potent stress reliever. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Physical activity helps burn off stress hormones and promotes the production of feel-good endorphins.
      The Science of Sweat: A meta-analysis published in the journal Sports Medicine concluded that regular exercise is an effective strategy for reducing cortisol levels and improving stress management.
      Connect and Be Kind

      Social connection is a powerful buffer against stress. Nurture relationships with loved ones, engage in activities you enjoy, and consider volunteering. Acts of kindness boost both your mood and the well-being of others, creating a positive feedback loop.
      By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can effectively manage your cortisol levels and cultivate a calmer, healthier you. Remember, consistency is key. Be patient, celebrate your progress, and enjoy the journey to a more balanced and stress-free life!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Unsplash, Pexel & feature image: @xun1020 More

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      Where to try the best high intensity workouts in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGES
      Want to break a sweat and burn those extra calories? Then High Intensity workouts are the best form of exercise to go the extra mile.
      High-intensity workouts are designed to push your body to its limits by incorporating short bursts of intense activity followed by periods of rest or lower-intensity exercise.
      Overall HIIT, or high-intensity interval training, refers to repeated sets of intervals that are between five seconds and a minute long, with a relatively short rest period.
      The main type of workouts include:
      High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
      Alternates between high-intensity exercises and short recovery periods.
      Circuit Training
      Combines strength and cardio exercises performed back-to-back with minimal rest.
      HIIT Cycling
      Pedal your way to that heart-pumping rush. HIIT cycling workouts, on the other hand, can make the time fly as you challenge your body and mind with various effort levels, work intervals, and recovery breaks.
      What are the overarching health benefits?
      Improved Cardiovascular Health
      HIIT can help improve the efficiency and strength of your heart. Also, Regular high-intensity workouts can reduce resting blood pressure.
      Enhanced Metabolism
      HIIT boosts your metabolism and keeps it elevated for hours after exercise, helping you burn more calories even at rest. These workouts are effective at reducing body fat.
      Time Efficiency
      HIIT sessions are typically shorter than traditional workouts, making them ideal for busy schedules. Despite the shorter duration, HIIT can provide significant fitness benefits in less time.
      Improved Muscle Tone and Strength
      High-intensity workouts often include resistance training, which helps build and tone muscles. These exercises can improve overall strength and endurance.
      Better Insulin Sensitivity
      HIIT can enhance insulin sensitivity, which helps your muscles use glucose more effectively. Improved insulin sensitivity lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes.
      Enhanced Athletic Performance
      HIIT can increase your maximal oxygen uptake, improving your endurance and performance in other physical activities. Overall, it can improve speed and power.
      Mental Health Benefits
      Intense exercise releases endorphins, which help reduce stress and improve mood. HIIT can improve brain health and cognitive functions such as memory and learning.
      So, if you’re looking to burn those calories, Dubai has a host of venues that work for both beginners and experts.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash @malikshibly More

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

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      The hot girl walk is about to get hotter—and maybe a little retro. When Kate Davidson posted a simple Sunday morning vlog, filled with skincare, her furry friends and the farmer’s market, to TikTok, her super-toned arms ended up stealing the spotlight. In a subsequent video that racked up five million views, she dropped her secret and it’s simple: wrist weights.

      Kate Davidson – Toned Arm Trend

      Davidson credited wearing the 500g wrist weights on her daily walks for her sculpted upper-body physique, and naturally, the rest of the internet was influenced to give them a try, myself included.

      While many shared their excitement about this “lazy girl hack” for toned arms, others in the comment section had concerns that wrist weights are bad for joint health. But, as long as the weight isn’t *too* heavy, your joints should be okay. “A very heavy weight on a weak wrist can be harmful in that it can put undue strain on your joints, but that’s about it,” says Claudette Sariya. So, you’ll just want to make sure you’re not overloading your wrists with too much weight.

      But, how much of a difference will wrist weights make? Here’s what you need to know about incorporating wrist weights into your hot girl walks and beyond.

      Meet the expert: Claudette Sariya, CPT, is the founding instructor at SOLE Fitness and a coach at F45 Training.

      Benefits Of Wrist Weights

      The cult-fave Bala Bangles are a modern take, but wrist weights have been popular since the 1970s and 80s. They’re versatile and can be used at any time, whether you want to strap them on while you’re doing household chores, at a barre class, or on a walk or run, says Sariya. They add resistance and therefore up the intensity of any activity and help build muscular endurance.

      Wrist weights can help your arms look more toned, but not for the reason you might think. “Using weights while walking won’t help you build muscle,” Sariya says. Instead, by adding weights to your walking routine, you’re making the activity a little bit harder and increasing your caloric burn, even if just by a little bit.

      While you may see the benefits of wearing wrist weights on your arms, it’s not because wrist weights can spot reduce fat (this isn’t possible, Sariya says). Since your arms don’t store most of the body’s fat to begin with, that’s one of the first places you’ll notice a difference, Sariya explains.

      Nordik Beauty Fitness Wrist & Ankle Weights

      OTG Weighted Bangles

      How To Use Wrist Weights While Walking

      The beauty of wrist weights is that they’re easy to use. After you’ve strapped them to your wrists, you’re ready to take them out for a spin. Before you get started, you can also do some wrist rolls to warm up your joints. In order to maximise their benefits, keep your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle, similar to how you hold your arms while running, advises Sariya. And, “if you feel comfortable and coordinated, you can add in bicep curls to get an extra boost,” she says. Overall, the more you move with intention, the more of a difference you’ll see, says Sariya. You can also slowly increase your weights for an additional burn, as long as they’re not too heavy.

      As for how often you should use your wearable weights, incorporating them into your preferred form of cardio (so, in Davidson’s case, her walks) twice a week for about 40 minutes is a great place to start, says Sariya. Since wrist weights are not an effective way to build muscle, you should also do strength training if you’re looking to really take your arms to the next level.

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

      When should you see results?

      There’s not one timeframe for when you can expect to see results from walking with wrist weights because it varies based on things like starting fitness level and the intensity of your walks. (If you’re a fitness newbie, the good news is results might appear quicker than for someone who is already hitting the gym multiple times a week.)

      While the added weight on a walk gives you a little boost by driving your heart rate up and working more muscles, the timeframe for results is actually still pretty similar to walking without them. But, if adding this accessory is the inspiration and excitement you need, wrist weights can be a great way to spice up a stale walking routine—I know they spiced up mine.

      READ MORE: 5 Ways To Burn More Fat During Your Walking Workouts

      This article written by Olivia Luppino first appeared on Women’s Health UK. Additional product recommendations by the Women’s Health SA team. More

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      Transform Your Legs With This 20-Minute Home Workout

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      It’s safe to say that we’ve all found different ways to make home workouts work for us. You could be using a tin of beans as weights or your broom has magically turned it into a barbell.  Either way, we’re working on our fitness! If you have equipment at home but haven’t used any of it, I’d like to introduce you to your new best friend — the resistance band.

      At first glance, this piece of exercise band looks like nothing but a band, but this baby can make your body stronger and firmer without lifting weights. Health Coach, Online Trainer, and Bikini Pro Athlete, Andene Thomson shows us how we can transform our legs with a resistance band in just 20 minutes.

      20-Minute Resistance Band Workout

      Time: 20 Minutes | Equipment: Resistance Band | Good For: Quads, glutes, hamstring, and calves

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      Warm-Up

      50 reps x Knee-Banded Squats with Abduction

      Place the resistance band above your knees, with your feet hip-width apart (A). Lower yourself down (as if sitting into a chair) keeping the weight in your heels and sink down into your squat (B). While in your squat position, open the legs as you feel the tension from the band (C). Return to standing by pushing your heels into the ground (D). Remember to engage those glutes!

      Exercise 1

      1/  Knee-Banded Kickbacks (4 x 15 each leg)

      Place the resistance band around your thighs with your feet hip-width apart, keeping your core engaged (A). Shift weight into your left leg, so there is tension in the band (B). Squeeze your core as you kick your right leg back (C).

      2/ Knee-Banded Side Abduction (4 x 15 each leg)

      Place the resistance band around your thighs, while keeping your core engaged (A). Lift your outer leg up and straight out to side as far as possible, before bringing your leg to the starting position (B). That’s one rep!

      READ MORE: Get A Full-Body Workout In Just 15 Minutes With Only 2 Household Items

      Exercise 2

      1/ Knee-Banded Dumbbell Split Squats (4 x 15 each leg)

      Grab a dumbbell and hold it at your sides (A). Lower your hips until your front thigh is at least parallel to the floor. Push through your front heel, and extend the hips and knees to return to the starting position (B). That’s 1 rep. Don’t forget to change legs!

       2/ Knee-Banded Forward and Back Jump Squats (4 x 12 each way)

      Start with your feet hip-width apart, keep your knees soft as you tuck into a low squat position (A). Jump over a small step, rope or a towel to intensify, before jumping back again (B).

      Exercise 3

      4 x 20 reps Dumbbell Lying Leg Curls

      Start by lying flat on your stomach (A).  Place the dumbells between your feet and extend legs all the way back (B). Be careful not to arch your spine as you extend your legs back, then repeat the move (C).

      Exercise 4

      1/ Sumo Deadlifts (4 x 15 reps)

      Position your feet shoulder-width apart as your toes point out at an angle (A). It’s important not to round your lower back for this one. Grab hold of your weights with both hands as you lower your body down, keeping your core engaged, before returning back to starting position (B).

      2/ Knee-Banded Sumo Squat Pulses (4 x 20 reps)

      Get the resistance band on and start with your legs opened wide to the sides (A). Keep the shoulders directly over your hips and your knees are in line with your feet (B). Go for small pulses up and down (C).

      READ MORE: Use These 5 Resistance Band Moves To Ease Knee Pain

      Finisher

      Knee-Banded Double Pulse Sumo Squats

      Start with your legs opened to the sides and your toes turned slightly outward (A). As low as you can, take on a squat position as you make small pulses up and down (B). More

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      6 Workout Moves You Can Actually Do With Your Dog

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      Working out with your dog doesn’t just benefit your health. It can be a real treat for your pet – and for you. “A dog is the best motivator you’ll ever have,” says Tricia Montgomery, founder and president of K9 Fit Club, a fitness club for people and their pets. “All they want to do is spend time with you and please you,” she says. “They look forward to it.” And although they won’t judge you for skipping workouts, it’s tough to say no when you have to face a wagging tail.

      Montgomery created this 30-minute circuit, which alternates between cardio and body-weight training moves, to give you and your canine a heart-pumping full-body workout.

      The only equipment you need is your leashed four-legged friend. Holding the leash, warm up together with a minute-long power walk, then perform high knees and butt kicks until you feel loose. Standing in place, perform arm circles while your dog stands next to you until your shoulders feel warmed up.

      Then repeat the following circuit three times, two to three times per week:

      Rover’s reverse lunges with paw

      Tell your dog to sit. Then face him with your feet together. Step back with one foot so that your front leg is bent at a 90-degree angle with your knee directly above your ankle. At the bottom of each lunge, ask your dog for his paw to “shake.” Release the dog’s paw as you stand to return to your starting position. Repeat on the other side, and ask your dog for his other paw. Repeat for 20 reps.

      NOTE: If your dog doesn’t know how to “shake” or won’t do it 20 times, pat him on the head instead.

      READ MORE: Are Stiff Joints Affecting Your Pet This Winter?

      Sit-and-stay side shuffles

      Holding the leash so your dog moves with you, perform a side shuffle across the room or workout area. Then, facing the same direction, shuffle back to your starting position. Repeat 10 times.

      Paws push-ups

      Ask your dog to sit or lie down next to you while you get into push-up position. Keeping your abs tight, and elbows tucked into your sides, lower your body until it hovers above the ground, then push back up. Do as many as you can, dropping from your toes to your knees if needed. While you recover, have your dog do five Doggy Push Ups: Tell him to sit, then lay down five times.

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

      Waggin’ wall sit

      With your back against a wall, sit so your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle. If your dog is small, hold him. If your dog is large, ask him to put his paws on your lap to increase the challenge. Hold the wall sit for up to one minute.

      High-paw knees

      Perform high knees back and forth across the room or outdoor space while your dog walks or jogs next to you. Repeat for one minute.

      Puppy planks

      With your dog laying next to you, get into push-up position on your toes or knees with your elbows under your shoulders. Tighten your core and make sure your butt is aligned with your shoulders so your body forms a straight line. Hold for up to one minute while breathing normally. More

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      Consider This Yoga HIIT Workout A Total-Body Shred

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      Yes, yoga HIIT exists! Like strength-training moves, it’s possible to up the ante and turn your yoga flow into a sweaty interval training session. How? By upping your pace. Yoga works particularly well for this, since each pose is meant to flow into the next, creating a pacey workout that gets your heart racing.

      Plus, every move is done without a single weight, so you’re able to use your own body weight to strengthen your muscles. But don’t be fooled: this challenging flow, while mostly bodyweight, can up your heart rate and doubles as a hybrid strength-cardio workout.

      How to do this yoga HIIT workout

      Personal Fitness Trainer Phia-Lee Rabie came up with this workout. Each move blends into a circuit that you can repeat four or five times, making up a complete total-body workout. You’ll engage your core and tone your arms and legs.

      To complete the yoga HIIT workout, do each of the five exercises for 40 seconds and take 20 seconds rest. Repeat for four or five rounds.

      Move 1

      Start in a down dog position and from there, move to plank, pulling the right knee to chest.

      Allow the right leg to move to a down dog split. From there, your right leg comes back to plank, knee to chest ending in down dog. Repeat the sequence on the left side, alternating for 40 seconds.

      READ MORE: Exactly How To Train For A Handstand Or Pull-Up, Per Experts

      Move 2

      Start in an upward-facing dog position. Jump or step to a resting squat position placing your hands on the floor.

      Jump or step to an upward-facing dog position and repeat for 40 seconds.

      Move 3

      From a down dog position, bend your knees and sit back onto your heels.

      With your right leg, step out into a low lunge keeping your left hand on the floor. With your right arm, reach up to the sky forming a straight line from one hand to the other and feel the nice stretch in your spine.

      Bring the right hand back to the ground. Step your leg back and return to the bent-knee downward-facing dog. Repeat everything on the left side, alternating for 40 seconds.

      READ MORE: This Scalable HIIT Workout Will Be Your New Go-To For All-Over Gains

      Move 4

      From a forward fold starting position, walk out on your hand to a plank.

      Lower your body to perform a push-up in a ripple-like manner with your hips first.

      Walk back to forward fold. Do one quick jump or step to plank and back.

      Keep repeating the flow for 40 seconds.

      Move 5

      Lie on your back with feet apart and arms overhead.

      Do a crunch or sit-up while lifting both legs, reaching your hands to toe-tap. Knees may bend, depending on your flexibility. Keep the rhythm for 40 seconds.

      For detailed demos of the moves, watch PT Phia-Lee do the moves here:

      [embedded content]

      Try these workouts, too: More

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      How To Get Fit At 40 – And Thriving Healthy Tips

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      This is the prime of your life – yes, your 40s are it! It’s a time when staying active and taking care of your health becomes even more crucial. As your body goes through changes, it’s essential to understand how to adapt your fitness routines accordingly.

      Engaging in physical activity also supports cognitive function, keeping your mind sharp and focused as you navigate the challenges of work and family life. It can improve sleep quality, which becomes increasingly important as hormonal changes may disrupt your rest.

      By incorporating exercise into your routine, you’re investing in a healthier future self by promoting cardiovascular health and supporting bone density. Plus, staying active can enhance flexibility and balance to prevent injuries that may be more common as we age.

      “If you’re not engaging in regular aerobic and strength training by your forties, it’s possible there may be a shift towards insulin insensitivity,” says Dr Amal Hassan, a sports and exercise medicine consultant. Oestrogen optimises insulin levels (the hormone needed to move glucose out of your bloodstream and keep blood sugar levels regulated)

      Unilateral Training

      In your forties, unilateral (single-sided) moves should be front and centre of your strength training routine. “Exercises such as single-leg Romanian deadlifts and single-arm dumbbell rows, are great for improving balance and ironing out any muscular imbalances,” says McGowan. “By doing them, you test your balance and work oneside of your body at a time, which isolates and strengthens weak muscles.” It’s a game changer for injury prevention, too.

      Quick, Short Bursts of Activity

      Giving your metabolism a boost is the name of the game, here. “Regular activity is vital for reducing the risk of insulin insensitivity, which could lead to diabetes and weight gain, as exercise moves blood sugar into the muscles for storage and promotes an immediate increase in insulin sensitivity, rather than leaving excess insulinfloating in your body,” explains Dr Hassan. “Short walks after meals and reducing alcohol intake to within the guidelines (or lower) are powerful ways to improve your metabolism.” The thinking is that rather than aiming for longer 20-minute sessions, know that four five-minute bursts could also work wonders.

      Do More Balanced Moves

      Your balance may also begin to wobble a little. Research in Frontiers In Neurology found that the ‘vestibular threshold’ was more than 80% higher in participants over the age of 40.

      Get Fit In Your 40s: The 10 Minute Stretch

      Instructions: Complete the exercises in this yoga workout in order. Move from one to the next without resting. Rest 45 to 60 seconds at the end of the circuit, then repeat for up to three rounds

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

      1. Sukhasana To Half Moon

      Start in an easy seated pose (Sukhasana). Sit like this for a minute with your eyes closed and hands in your lap, breathing deeply. Raise your arms to the sky and then over to your right into half moon.

      Repeat on the left, then inhale, raising your arms up again and lengthening your spine. Exhale as you reach your hands in front of you.

      2. Cat And Cow

      Place your hands on the floor, then walk them forward and move onto all fours. Spend a few breaths performing cat and cow: inhale and arch your back, sticking your tailbone up.

      Exhale and round your back, tucking your tailbone. Continue alternating.

      READ MORE: Boost Your Morning Routine With This Easy 15-Minute Yoga Flow

      3. Downward-facing Dog To Standing Mountain

      From cat and cow, push up into downward-facing dog .

      Walk your hands back towards your feet, or your feet towards your hands, and exhale into forward fold, then roll up into a standing mountain pose.

      READ MORE: This 6-Move Yoga Sequence Will Seriously Strengthen Your Tummy

      Foods You Should Be Eating In Your 40s

      Proper nutrition plays a critical role in staying fit and healthy, especially as you hit your 40s. As your metabolism starts to slow down, it becomes even more important to fuel your body with the right nutrients. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can help maintain a healthy weight and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

      In your 40s increasing your protein intake from 15 percent of your total calories to 30 percent can help you boost the calories your body burns during digestion.

      Switch to low-GI foods rich in soluble fibre, which helps to lower bad cholesterol. These include: Green vegetables, some fruits, kidney beans, chickpeas and lentils.

      Hydration is another essential aspect of proper nutrition that often gets overlooked but is crucial for maintaining energy levels and supporting bodily functions.

      Habits To Avoid In Your 40s

      “I often see clients putting pressure on themselves when they notice that their bodies are changing due to hormones,” says McGowan.

      “Consistency is key but going all out isn’t necessary. I recommend two or three moderate to intense workouts per week, but the most important thing is to reduce sedentary behaviour – stand as often as you can and always walk to your destination if it’s an option.”

      Bragg agrees: “Your body is going through a huge hormonal shift – oestrogen and progesterone levels decrease as ovaries stop producing them, and the control hormones (FSH, follicle-stimulating hormone and LH, luteinising hormone) released by the pituitary gland in the brain shoot up. This all contributes to the most common menopausal symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain and hot flushes. Doing intense workouts will only send hormonal imbalance further off-kilter as they increase the stress hormone cortisol.” Try incorporating at least one yoga session per week.

      This article written by Bridie Wilkins first appeared in the July/August 2022 Issue of Women’s Health UK additional reporting by the Women’s Health SA team.

      Icons at Freepik – Flaticon More

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      How To Get Fit In Your 20s – This Is Your Healthy Routine

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      How to get fit in your 20s? Easy. This is the decade in which you’re most likely to be in your peak physical condition; your reaction times are at their fastest, you can build muscle quicker and recover from tough sessions faster. You’re also developing your musculoskeletal strength. “Because bone density peaks in your twenties to early thirties, undertaking weight-bearing activity [where your bones are supporting your weight] like running, soccer or netball, in combination with a strength programme, can maximise your bone health for life,” says Dr Rebecca Robinson, consultant physician in sport and exercise medicine.

      Embracing an active lifestyle now will not only benefit you in the present but will also pave the way for a healthier future. Let’s dive into how you can kickstart your fitness journey in your 20s and make lasting changes that will impact both your body and mind positively.

      Strength Is Key

      The workout you want to do is the one you should do (it’s the one you’ll keep up), but there’s resounding encouragement around strength training. “It’s great for increasing muscle mass and boosting metabolism and confidence,” says personal trainer Samantha McGowan.

      The latter is particularly important in your twenties: several studies have shown that women’s confidence increases with age, while others show that strength training can seriously bolster self-esteem, as lifting heavier and achieving goals gives you a sense of achievement. Dr Hassan concurs. “Finding a balance of basic activity forms (cardio and strength) is key, but your weekly schedule should include at least one strength training session. The type is up to you – body weight, free weights or weight machines all reap the same rewards. I’d advise a combination.”

      Understand Your Body

      Track your menstrual cycle and practise pelvic floor exercises. Contract for three seconds, then relax and repeat. Do eight to 10 daily. Around 21 percent of women in South Africa suffer from a form of incontinence, but strengthening the pelvic area can be game-changing. “Monitor your workout performance during your monthly cycle and see if there are any patterns,” advises Dr Hassan. The four phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulatory and luteal affect hormones, energy levels, strength and endurance. For example, the rise in oestrogen levels post-menstruation means you may have more energy.

      Make Time For Rest

      While this is a great time to fall in love with exercise, over-exercising is common among women of this agegroup. For many of the 20-something patients Dr Nicky Keay, an exercise endocrinologist, sees for amenorrhoea (loss of periods), it can be directly attributed to relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S, pronounced ‘reds’). “It’s a disparity between food intake (the energy and micronutrients you’re consuming) and the nutrition required to cover the energy demands of exercise and the basic ‘housekeeping’ tasks in the body,” she explains. If you’re concerned that your workouts are taking their toll, Dr Keay suggests ditching high-intensity exercise and building in some slow strength and conditioning sessions, too.

      Get Fit In Your 20s: How To Do This Bodyweight Mobility Workout

      Each exercise done for 45 seconds with a 15-second rest. Repeat the circuit 3 times for a sweaty bodyweight HIIT session. If you have any injuries, please check with your medical practitioner to see if it safe for you to do the following bodyweight exercises. Remember to have fun!

      1. Rolling cobra

      Start in a hovering child’s pose and extend your legs up to a down dog (A) Shift your weight forward, round your back as you move through a plank, and then a hanging cobra-style position (B). Continue for 45 seconds.

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

      2. Beast reach to high plank

      From hovering child’s pose spring your knees forward to a high plank. Reach and repeat for 45 seconds (A).

      3. Beast reach, high plank, runners lunge

      Move from hovering child’s pose to high plank and then step your foot on the outside of the same side hand for runners lunge (A). Reach back to hovering child’s pose (B). Repeat alternating sides for 45 seconds.

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

      4. Beast reach, high plank, runner lunge to sit through

      Once in runner lunge, lift your back foot up through the middle of the body (A). Lift the opposite hand off the floor too, balancing on one hand and foot (B). Come back to your starting position and repeat for 45 seconds.

      Foods You Should Be Eating In Your 20s

      Remember, balance is key! Allow yourself occasional treats but aim for consistency with nourishing foods that support your fitness journey. Your body will thank you for it!

      Go for food high in fibre like beans, fruits, veggies and whole grains. High-fibre foods digest more slowly and are also more filling, which means they’re a good option for weight control.

      Calcium plays a role in heart health, muscle function and nerve signalling. Many seeds are good sources of calcium. Cheese, yoghurt and sardines are also great sources of calcium.

      Eat the rainbow. Aim for five servings of vegetables a day (1 serving = ½ cup cooked or 1 cup salad) and try to have a bigger variety of veggies each week.

      Habits To Avoid In Your 20s

      Overtraining. The idea that you’re near-invincible during your twenties is only natural – you’ve got energy for days and can sail through any sweat session with a hangover like it’s nothing, but the ‘too much of a good thing’ adage may apply. Over-exercising is something personal trainer Caroline Bragg sees in plenty of her clients in their twenties. “Overtraining can lead to RED-S [relative energy deficiency syndrome], when the body isn’t taking on enough energy to meet demand,” she says. “This can lead to your body fat dropping so low that you stop producing oestrogen, which in turn can nix your periods (amenorrhea). Later on, this lack of oestrogen can cause loss of libido, trouble sleeping and difficulty concentrating.”

      This article written by Kirsti Buick first appeared in the July/August 2022 Issue of Women’s Health UK, additional reporting by Women’s Health SA team. More