Amy Norton

THURSDAY, Aug. 18, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Using a lower threshold to diagnose pregnancy-related diabetes does not seem to reduce the risk of having a big baby, on average but some women do benefit, a new clinical trial suggests.

Gestational diabetes is diagnosed when a pregnant woman's blood sugar levels are abnormally high. The condition can have consequences for moms and babies, a main one being fetal overgrowth. That results in a big baby and a difficult delivery that can injure the newborn or mother, and raise the odds of a Cesarean section delivery. In addition, some infants are born with low blood sugar or breathing problems that require treatment.

For women, meanwhile, gestational diabetes raises the risk of preeclampsia a potentially dangerous condition where blood pressure rises and protein accumulates in the urine.

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But while gestational diabetes is commonly diagnosed, experts are still debating exactly how to define it, said Dr. Michael Greene, a professor emeritus of obstetrics and gynecology at Harvard Medical School, in Boston.

"The problem has been gathering the evidence on where to draw the line," said Greene, who wrote an editorial published with the new study in the Aug. 18 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

Back in 2010, the American Diabetes Association and the International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) lowered their recommended blood sugar thresholds for diagnosing gestational diabetes.

That was based on a large international study that found the risks of negative pregnancy outcomes continuously rose with blood sugar levels. There was no clear "inflection point," Greene explained, that could be used as a cutoff for diagnosing gestational diabetes.

So, the expert consensus was to lower the blood-sugar threshold for diagnosing the condition, in the hopes it might prevent more pregnancy complications.

In the new trial, researchers in New Zealand tested the impact of those lower thresholds, versus higher ones that are still used in that country.

And they found that, overall, women diagnosed with gestational diabetes according to the lower threshold were no less likely to have a large newborn, versus those diagnosed based on the higher thresholds.

But there were benefits when the researchers focused on the subgroup of women whose blood sugar levels fell in between the higher and lower thresholds meaning they would not have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes based on the higher cutoff.

Among those women, treatment for gestational diabetes did lower the risk of having a large newborn, as well as the risk of preeclampsia.

"The health differences we did see... were driven by the 9% of women with 'milder' gestational diabetes, whose [blood sugar] results fell in between the higher and lower thresholds," explained lead researcher Dr. Caroline Crowther, of the University of Auckland.

She said the finding supports using the lower cutoff though that will mean more pregnant women being treated for diabetes. That typically means diet changes, physical activity and regularly doing finger-sticks to check blood sugar levels; some women need to take insulin or the oral medication metformin.

"Use of the lower [blood sugar] threshold will mean more women will be diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and that will increase health service utilization," Crowther said. "But for the women with milder gestational diabetes so detected and treated, the study suggests important health benefits."

The study involved just over 4,000 pregnant women who were being evaluated for gestational diabetes. Half were randomly assigned to a higher-threshold group, where the condition was diagnosed according to recommendations used in New Zealand. The other half were assigned to a lower-threshold group, using the blood sugar cutoffs recommended by the IADPSG.

As expected, the lower cutoffs resulted in more women being diagnosed with gestational diabetes: 15% versus 6%. Just under 9% of newborns in both groups were large for gestational age above the 90th percentile for babies born at that week of pregnancy.

Then, the researchers focused on that group of women between the two thresholds, who could be considered to have mild gestational diabetes. Among those in the lower-threshold group who were diagnosed and treated for the condition 6% had a large newborn. That compared with 18% in the higher-threshold group, who went untreated.

The treated women also had a lower rate of preeclampsia, 0.5% versus over 5% in the higher-threshold group.

Crowther said that in places where the lower threshold is not currently used, such as New Zealand, it might be time to consider it.

But the question of the optimal blood sugar cutoff remains open, according to Greene. The goal, he said, is to identify the greatest number of pregnant women who can benefit from blood-sugar management, without being so "stringent" that healthy women are diagnosed with a medical condition.

"There's no question that finding and treating gestational diabetes works," Greene said.

As for preventing it in the first place, he said that going into pregnancy at a healthy weight can reduce the risk.

The U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has more on gestational diabetes.

SOURCES: Caroline Crowther, MD, professor, maternal and perinatal health, Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Michael Greene, MD, professor emeritus, obstetrics and gynecology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and associate editor, New England Journal of Medicine; New England Journal of Medicine, Aug. 18, 2022

Continued here:
Change to Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Helped Women - Journal Times

Fitness is not a one size fits all program and no one knows that better than Michael Blauner more commonly known as New Jerseys premier in-home personal fitness trainer. And with over three decades of personal training experience on his resume, its safe to say that Blauner knows a thing or two or 10 about health and fitness.

Blauner, a certified personal trainer in Bergen County, NJ, specializes in bringing individualized fitness routines into homes. The goal is simple motivate people to engage in regular physical activities in order to improve all aspects of their life. My program is based on technically correct exercise science and instinct, he said.

Blauner has trained everyone from celebrities and Wall Street financiers to walk-ins off the street. His current clientele includes over 50 residential communities, senior housing developments, country club fitness rooms and private residences.

My goal is to provide the best fitness program available by customizing each program to fit each individuals needs, he adds.

In case you need further proof that his program works, just take a look at Blauners credentials. He is a Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Senior Fitness Specialist, Lifestyle and Weight Management Specialist, Certified Pilates Instructor, Red Cross CPR Certified. Blauner has also been featured in over 30 national publications, designs custom fitness center and currently runs a gym in Bergen County.

With all that experience working in the fitness industry with adults of all ages and stage of life, Blauner says that the keys to a successful exercise regimen are simplicity and enjoyment.

Regardless of your current level of fitness, basic fundamentals of fitness work the best in order to achieve lasting health, he said. My program is effective for everyone especially people who do not have a consistent health and fitness regimen.

Blauners focus is to get people moving and feeling great in a non-intimidating way. Significant gains in physical fitness can be achieved at any age regardless of where you begin your journey, he said.

In an effort to streamline his approach even further, Blauner has shared what he calls the 10 Rules of Health & Fitness a collection of fitness musts that he has learned over the course of his own fitness journey. These are basic rules that everyone should follow in order to make a positive impact on their health, said Blauner.

The number one rule on the list is: Diet matters more than exercise.

This is always the best place to start, Blauner adds. Take a look at what youre putting into your body in order to get what you want out of it.

Number two the waistline. Put the scale away, he said. As a barometer of overall health, your waistline tells the story.

And for those who say fruit offers unnecessary sugar and carbs, number three reveals the opposite. No one gains weight from eating fruit, said Blauner. In fact, its quite the opposite. Fruits are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals and are high in fiber and antioxidants, which means it can reduce a persons risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammation and diabetes.

The next four rules zero in on exercise. Exercise for strength looking good is a welcome side effect, said Blauner. Basic exercise, such as push-ups (a compound exercise that activates multiple muscle groups across your body), works best. Fast walking is also the best form of cardio you can do. Frequency over intensity all day long.

Number eight variety is overrated. You heard that right, said Blauner. Variety in diet and exercise is not always the key to progression or transformation. Its okay to find a plan that works and stick to it. Results will follow.

The next rule is one that everyone should be familiar with. Drink water all day long, said Blauner. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine has determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is about 15.5 cups of fluids a day for men and 11.5 cups of fluids a day for women.

Finally, rule number 10 individuals only need a 15-minute all body strength routine daily to stay in great shape. Dont overthink this, said Blauner. 15 minutes of exercise is all you need to see a change.

Looking to start or enhance your fitness journey? Email Blauner at mbfit@optonline.net.

Read the rest here:
Michael Blauner breaks down health and fitness into 10 simple rules that can change your life - The Hudson Reporter

July 20, 2022

UPDATE

How Apple is empowering people with their health information

A new report shares the ways Apple products are helping users, developers, and health organizations advance personal health, research, and care

Today Apple shared a new report that offers a snapshot of the ways Apple products are empowering people to be at the center of their health, and acting as an intelligent guardian for their health and safety. Users, developers, medical institutions, and health organizations around the world are using Apple devices, features, and APIs to break down barriers between people and their health information, all while keeping privacy in mind.

Apples efforts to advance health primarily fall into two categories, which are detailed in two corresponding sections of the report. The first section describes Apples focus on personal health and fitness features on Apple Watch and iPhone that offer actionable, science-based insights and help protect users health and safety. The second section shares Apples work with the medical community to support research and care. Both sections along with an Extensions and Spotlights section at the reports end include a variety of examples of third-party developers, health institutions, and organizations innovating with Apple technology.

We believe passionately that technology can play a role in improving health outcomes and encouraging people to live a healthier day, and we are excited about the many ways users are benefiting from our health and fitness features, and by the ways third-party developers, institutions, and organizations are using Apple technology to advance health and science, said Jeff Williams, Apples chief operating officer. Our vision for the future is to continue to create science-based technology that equips people with even more information and acts as an intelligent guardian for their health, so theyre no longer passengers on their own health journey. Instead, we want people to be firmly in the drivers seat with meaningful, actionable insights.

Empowering Users on Their Personal Health Journeys

Since the release of the Health app in 2014 and Apple Watch in 2015, Apple has introduced a wide array of innovative health and fitness features, with the goal to provide users with easy-to-understand, meaningful insights so they can be empowered to live a healthier life. The report outlines the four pillars of Apples health and fitness features: 1) giving users a central and secure place to store and view their health data in the Health app, 2) offering features that enable Apple Watch to act as an intelligent guardian for users health, 3) offering features that help users improve their everyday health and fitness for better health outcomes, and 4) fueling innovative third-party health and fitness apps with developer tools.

With the release of iOS 16 and watchOS 9 this fall, Apple Watch and iPhone will offer features that focus on 17 areas of health and fitness, from heart health and sleep to mobility and womens health, and more. Over the years, customers of all ages have shared how these health and fitness features have, in their own words, changed their lives. Several share their stories in the report, including customers who have discovered serious heart conditions, received emergency assistance after a fall, or dramatically improved their health through daily activity.

Users can now store over 150 different types of health data from Apple Watch, iPhone, and connected third-party apps and devices in one central view in the Health app, in addition to available health records data from connected institutions in the US, UK, and Canada. There are now tens of thousands of apps on the App Store that use the HealthKit API, which allows developers to incorporate data users choose to share from the Health app to offer innovative health and fitness experiences, with rigorous privacy and data security protocols. The report spotlights examples of globally popular HealthKit-enabled apps like Nike Run Club, Calm, and WeightWatchers, plus an increasing number of HealthKit-enabled apps including Qardio heart health and Withings Health Mate that use connected accessories to allow users to track and monitor even more aspects of their health.

Supporting the Health Ecosystem by Collaborating with the Medical Community

Apple believes the strongest health innovations are possible only through direct collaboration with the medical community, and the report describes four categories of this collaboration: 1) building tools to enable researchers to make new scientific discoveries, 2) helping strengthen the physician-patient relationship with meaningful data, 3) collaborating with health organizations to promote healthy lifestyles at large scale, and 4) supporting public health and government initiatives.

The ResearchKit framework gives researchers the opportunity to recruit study participants from a large user base of iPhone and Apple Watch users, and for participants to choose to share health data to help advance science. Through the Research app, Apple has collaborated with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Brigham and Womens Hospital and the American Heart Association, and the University of Michigan and World Health Organization to offer users across the US the opportunity to participate in three first-of-their-kind research studies: the Apple Womens Health Study, the Apple Heart and Movement Study, and the Apple Hearing Study. Early learnings from the studies appear in the report, as well as information on other studies Apple has supported, like the Heart Failure Study with University Health Network and the Digital Mental Health Study with UCLA.

Health Records on iPhone in the Health app, along with apps and devices developed by third parties using Apple developer tools, help strengthen physician-patient relationships with meaningful data. Health Records is now available to patients at over 800 institutions across over 12,000 locations, making it easy for patients to see their available medical data from multiple providers in the Health app whenever they choose. Research has shown that connecting patients with their care teams remotely results in better outcomes with the Corrie Health app, UVA Health care at home programs, and the US Department of Veterans Affairs loaning Apple devices to veterans to connect them with their VA healthcare services. Care teams are better able to help patients with chronic conditions at Ochsner Health System and NHS Sunderland, and remote monitoring is reducing the cost and length of stays in the neonatal intensive care units at Odense University Hospital and the University of Virginia Childrens Hospital, where premature babies can come home with their parents but stay connected to care teams remotely.

Health organizations and companies around the world including Paceline in the US; Vitality Active Rewards in the US, the UK, South Africa, and Australia; and LumiHealth in Singapore have collaborated with Apple to integrate Apple Watch into their wellness programs. There are currently 55 programs running in 17 countries with over a million users taking part in an incentive program leveraging Apple Watch. These programs have been successful in increasing participants physical activity levels and uptake of health behaviors, such as aiming for more regular sleep patterns, focusing on mindfulness, and swapping in healthier food options.

Finally, the report highlights Apples partnerships with clinicians and local governments on unique ways to support their crucial work to promote public health, including building apps and features during the COVID-19 health crisis.

Grounded in Science and Designed Around Privacy

All of Apples health and fitness features have been developed with two overarching principles:

Press Contacts

Clare Varellas

Apple

cvarellas@apple.com

(408) 862-7311

Zaina Khachadourian

Apple

zkhachadourian@apple.com

(408) 862-4327

Apple Media Helpline

media.help@apple.com

(408) 974-2042

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How Apple is empowering people with their health information - Apple

Do I need to warm up before a swimming workout?

Warming up before a workout is always a good idea. Taking 5 to 10 minutes to warm up the muscles you plan to use before starting your workout can help loosen your joints and prime those muscles for exercise, Koleber says. Before swimming, perform a few sets of push-ups and planks on dry land, and then spend a few laps swimming at a slow, easy pace to warm up.

The number of calories youll burn when swimming varies depending on your age, sex, body weight, and the intensity and duration of the exercise. However, as mentioned above, a 150-pound person may burn 216 calories from 30 minutes of general swimming (not vigorous), according to Harvard Medical School. If that same person increases the intensity, the expected calorie burn can jump to 360 calories in 30 minutes.

When youre first starting out, any number of laps youre able to do is a good swimming workout. For those who need concrete numbers, however, four laps of any basic stroke is a good distance to start with, Slabaugh says. (For reference, standard-sized pools tend to be 25 yards long, according to U.S. Masters Swimming.) From there, the number of laps you do will depend on your goals, intensity, fitness level, and how much time you have to exercise.

Swimming is a full-body workout. It works the large muscles in your back (latissimus dorsi and trapezius), chest (pectoralis major), shoulders (deltoids), hips (glutes), legs (quadriceps and hamstrings), and midsection (abdominals), Buckingham says.

Many groups of people, including beginners, kids, older adults, pregnant women, people with chronic conditions, and those with joint pain or injuries, can all potentially benefit from swimming. However, its a good idea to consult with your physician if you have any medical condition or injury that may make exercise and swimming in particular unsafe. In addition, Slabaugh recommends avoiding swimming if youre recovering from surgery, have open wounds, or cant complete the strokes.

A comfortable swimsuit and a pair of goggles may be all you need. However, some people may want to wear a swimming cap to protect their hair from damage from pool chemicals or salt water.

Aside from a swimsuit, goggles, and a swim cap (if you prefer to use one), most other swim gear is optional. However, if youre swimming in a natural body of water, its a good idea to get a safety buoy to increase your visibility and give you something to hang onto if you get tired, Koleber says.

Optional gear includes:

While swimming is low-impact, the repetitive motions can still cause pain and injuries, if youre not careful. The most common swimming-related issues include swimmers shoulder, lower back pain, breaststroke knee, and foot and ankle tendonitis, according to the Hospital for Special Surgery(HSS).The best way to avoid all of these injuries is to use proper swimming technique, build strength in the muscles that support your stroke, include a warm-up and cooldown in every workout, and progress your routine gradually, per the HSS.

More:
Swimming: What It Is, Health Benefits, and Getting Started - Everyday Health

Global Health & Fitness Software Market Insights and Forecast [2022] with Top Manufacturers analysis: MINDBODY, Acuity Scheduling, Perfect Gym Solutions, BookSteam. The report presents a comprehensive overview, market shares, and growth opportunities of Health & Fitness Software market by product types, applications, key manufacturers and key regions. It allows a reader to understand consumer behavior and gives a better understanding of the leading competitors operation in the market.

The Global Health and Fitness Software Market offers detailed coverage of Health and Fitness Software industry and main market trends with long-term and short-term impact of Covid-19 . The market research includes historical and forecast market data, demand, application details, price trends, and company shares of the leading Health and Fitness Software by geography. The report splits the market size, by volume and value, on the basis of application type and geography. An in-depth analysis on a geographic basis provides strategic business intelligence for investments. The study reveals profitable investment strategies for companies, business executives, product marketing managers, new business investors and many more in preferred locations. The study covers and includes emerging market trends, developments, opportunities, and challenges in the industry. This report also covers extensively researched competitive landscape sections with prominent companies and profiles, including their market shares and projects.

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The report also provides Historic, current and forecasted market trend of the market by analyzing the impact of current market trends, needs, drivers and barriers. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current global market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. This report encompasses the fundamental dynamics of the market which include drivers, opportunities, and challenges faced by the industry. Additionally, this report showed a keen market study of the main consumers, raw material manufacturers and distributors, etc.

Our report focuses on top manufacturersin global Health and Fitness Software market, with production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer, covering:

Get A Sample Copy Of Health and Fitness Software Market Report

Health and Fitness Software is a fitness software solution for gyms and fitness centers that can manage all day to day business operations. The software helps trainers manage individual clients, build personalized training plans, track their performance.

Market Analysis and Insights:Global Health and Fitness Software MarketThe global Health and Fitness Software market is anticipated to rise at a considerable rate during 2021 to 2027. In 2021, the market is growing at a steady rate and with the rising adoption of strategies by key players, the market is expected to rise over the projected horizon.

Global Health and Fitness Software Market:Scope and Market SizeHealth and Fitness Software market is segmented by company, region (country), by Type, and by Application. Players, stakeholders, and other participants in the global Health and Fitness Software market will be able to gain the upper hand as they use the report as a powerful resource. The segmental analysis focuses on revenue and forecast by Type and by Application in terms of revenue and forecast for the period 2016-2027.

Global Health and Fitness Software Market:Drivers and RestrainsThe research report has incorporated the analysis of different factors that augment the markets growth. It constitutes trends, restraints, and drivers that transform the market in either a positive or negative manner. This section also provides the scope of different segments and applications that can potentially influence the market in the future. The detailed information is based on current trends and historic milestones. This section also provides an analysis of the volume of production about the Global market and about each type from 2016 to 2027. This section mentions the volume of production by region from 2016 to 2027. Pricing analysis is included in the report according to each type from the year 2016 to 2027, manufacturer from 2016 to 2021, region from 2016 to 2021, and Global price from 2016 to 2027.

A thorough evaluation of the restrains included in the report portrays the contrast to drivers and gives room for strategic planning. Factors that overshadow the market growth are pivotal as they can be understood to devise different bends for getting hold of the lucrative opportunities that are present in the ever-growing market. Additionally, insights into market experts opinions have been taken to understand the market better.

Global Health and Fitness Software Market:Segment AnalysisThe research report includes specific segments by region (country), by manufacturers, by Type and by Application. Each type provides information about the production during the forecast period of 2016 to 2027. by Application segment also provides consumption during the forecast period of 2016 to 2027. Understanding the segments helps in identifying the importance of different factors that aid the market growth.

On the basis of types,the Health and Fitness Software market is primarily split into:

On the basis of applications,the Health and Fitness Software market covers:

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Highlighted points of Health and Fitness Software Market Size:

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Geographically, this report is segmented into several key regions, with sales, revenue, market share and growth Rate of Health and Fitness Software in these regions, covering

North America(United States, Canada)Europe(Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Russia)Asia-Pacific(China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, India, Australia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia)Latin America(Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina)Middle East and Africa(Turkey, Saudi Arabia, UAE)

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Table of Content

1 Report Overview of Health and Fitness Software1.1 Study Scope1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.3 Market by Application1.4 Study Objectives1.5 Years Considered

2 Global Growth Trends2.1 Global Health and Fitness Software Market Perspective2.2 Health and Fitness Software Growth Trends by Regions2.3 Health and Fitness Software Industry Dynamic

3 Competition Landscape by Key Players3.1 Global Top Health and Fitness Software Players by Revenue3.2 Global Health and Fitness Software Market Share by Company Type (Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3)3.3 Players Covered: Ranking by Health and Fitness Software Revenue3.4 Global Health and Fitness Software Market Concentration Ratio3.5 Health and Fitness Software Key Players Head office and Area Served3.6 Key Players Health and Fitness Software Product Solution and Service3.7 Date of Enter into Health and Fitness Software Market3.8 Mergers and Acquisitions, Expansion Plans

4 Health and Fitness Software Breakdown Data by Type4.1 Global Health and Fitness Software Historic Market Size by Type4.2 Global Health and Fitness Software Forecasted Market Size by Type

5 Health and Fitness Software Breakdown Data by Application5.1 Global Health and Fitness Software Historic Market Size by Application5.2 Global Health and Fitness Software Forecasted Market Size by Application

6 North America7 Europe8 Asia-Pacific9 Latin America10 Middle East and Africa11 Key Players Profiles12 Analysts Viewpoints/Conclusions

13 Appendix13.1 Research Methodology13.1.1 Methodology/Research Approach13.1.2 Data Source13.2 Disclaimer13.3 Author Details

Continued

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Market is changing rapidly with the ongoing expansion of the industry. Advancement in the technology has provided todays businesses with multifaceted advantages resulting in daily economic shifts. Thus, it is very important for a company to comprehend the patterns of the market movements in order to strategize better. An efficient strategy offers the companies with a head start in planning and an edge over the competitors.Precision Reportsis the credible source for gaining the market reports that will provide you with the lead your business needs.

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Health & Fitness Software Market Report 2022 Size, Share and Trend, Demand Status, In-Depth Analysis of Top Manufacturers, Growth Drivers and...

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They're on sale right now.

Youll have heard of Veja one of the first sustainable shoe brands in the world loved by the likes of Meghan Markle, Kate Middleton, Emma Watson and Emily Ratajkowski.

So, when I heard theyd launched their first workout trainer, the Impala, I was keen to try it. Its their lightest trainer ever, is made from rice waste, and was designed to be worn for both work and workouts, ideal for the busy working woman.

Being honest, Im still yet to find a workout shoe that can do both well that is, most other trainers that look acceptable with work clothes arent actually that good for working out in, let alone weight training or running longer distances. But thats where the Veja Impalas come in, promising to look good and perform well for running, HIIT workouts, strength training and more.

I put them to the test, taking using them for a 3 mile, 5 mile, and 6 mile run and a few strength training sessions at my local gym, too. How did they fare? Youll have to keep scrolling to find out. Dont miss our AllBirds TreeFlyer review, while youre here.

A bit about the Veja Impala, the first fitness offering from the certified B Corp. All of the shoes are made from organic, agroecological and fairtrade cotton, wild rubber from the Amazonian Forest and innovative materials such as recycled plastic bottles.

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Good question. When I first unboxed the trainers, I was impressed. The shoes look more elevated and less sporty than other alternatives, if thats not your thing ideal for if youre after a workout shoe that you can seamlessly transition into your work wardrobe, too.

But did they stand the sweat test? Short answer: yes. Sure, theyre not as propulsive and springy as some of the running-focused Nike, Hoka, Adidas or other brand alternatives, but that said, you couldnt really wear those to the office without them really standing out.

The Veja Impalas, on the other hand, strike the perfect balance. Theyre breathable, have a good grip, and didnt cause any blisters. They go well with dresses, skirts and trousers, but dont sacrifice on performance, either. For all of my workouts, my feet and ankles felt supported and stable, and I was impressed with both the weight (theyre super light) and the bounce.

Not only are they functional, but theyre fashionable, too offering comfort, style and, a workout trainer that wont give you shin splints if you actually workout in them.

Not to mention the fact that theyre wide, giving those of you lucky enough not to have wide feet extra room for comfort or any swelling, and those of us with wide feet (myself included) adequate room and breathability. I sometimes struggle in summer months when its hot (anyone else relate?). When my feet swell, the laces and upper of some trainers can cut in. Not with the Impalas, though, which I tested in both Croatia and Turkey in over 30 degree heat a big plus point from me.

Theyre a great option for holidays as I said, I took them on both of mine. They look good for the plane and mean you save precious space on packing two pairs of trainers (a fitness pair and a fashion pair). Plus, theyre super comfortable.

Health Editor Ally Head wearing the Impala for a hike, to work, and for a run.

Cons: While theyre great for two or three workouts a week, I wouldnt wear them for more than that as, at that level of training, youd likely need more cushioning and support (read our round-up of the best running trainers, here). Theyre a good basic shoe, but I wouldnt advise for, say, marathon training.

Its also worth noting that the laces are quite long, and I had to draw the loops rather wide to stop myself from tripping over them.

Bottom line: The Impalas are a great all-rounder I ran, strength trained, walked and hiked in mine and they still look brand new, bar a bit of dust here and there. Theyre my new go-to option and recommendation for people who work out a few times a week and want a pair of trainers that they can wear outside of their workouts, too.

After all, its important that we all strive to be more sustainable in our day-to-day and invest in products and clothes that you dont just wear for one thing, rather, all the time and for a variety of occasions.

Original post:
Veja Impala review: Why the workout shoe from the brand is my new go-to - Marie Claire UK

Most of us spend most of our gym time dead-set on blasting our biceps and torching our triceps, but fail to place any focus on our forearms.

Sure, we may bang out a few sets of hammer curls every other workout and consider that a heavy-hitting forearm day. But aesthetics aren't the only downside of skipping this prominent muscleweak forearms can result in weaker performance in exercises that require grip strength, i.e. deadlifts and rows, which are important for all-around strength and size.

However, this simple exercise, called the long-lever forearm rotation, can easily place some much-needed focus on your forearms. Long-lever forearm rotations are great for building grip and forearm strength and can even help to address certain types of elbow aches, according to Mens Health fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. An added bonus: Long-lever forearm rotations can be done virtually anywhere and with any type of long handle, such as a broomstick.

Heavy weight really isnt needed for this exercise to be effective, either. Youll just need a light bar thatll be placed in one hand in an offset position, creating a challenging lever for your forearms to twist against.

Grip a bar in your hand. Hold it tight.

Twist the bar back and forth, left to right, over and over.

Repeat for three sets with each arm for about 40 seconds.

The movement is different than how most people train forearms; according to Samuel, most exercises tend to curl our wrists upward. With long-lever forearm rotations, we rotate at the elbow, forcing our forearms to work harder than normal to allow the rotation to happenthe long lever side is sneakily heavier than you would expect, youve been warned.

Do these rotations slowly, which will force your forearms to stay in control. You can increase or decrease the difficulty level simply by gripping the bar closer or farther to its center.

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The Long-Lever Forearm Rotation Drill Builds Strength and Muscle - Men's Health

Coconut water has always been a go-to trendy beverage for your vacation pictures. However, it is important to understand it is not just another trendy beverage choice. Coconut water is flooded with health benefits. This trendy beverage is rich in natural vitamins and minerals that are essential to hydrate the body and skin. It is a naturally sweet refreshing drink thats surprisingly low in calories and naturally free of fats.

Coconut water is refreshing, hydrating, and delicious. It makes the perfect ingredient for all the spa-worthy coconut-based drinks and at the same it is just an ideal sports drink alternative. Not to be mistaken with coconut milk, coconut water is the liquid thats found inside a green coconut which is filled with all the essential electrolytes and nutrients.

Coconut water is a rejuvenating natural drink that is mildly sweet and paired with an interesting nutty flavor. This clear fluid is found in the centre of green coconuts. Coconut water has as much potassium as a banana but it is exceptionally low in calories as well as sodium which makes it a perfect sports drink alternative. People also refer to coconut water as coconut juice or tender coconut water.

However, it is important to understand coconut milk is not the same as coconut water. Coconut milk is made of coconut flesh from mature brown coconuts. It has a comparatively thicker and richer consistency with a creamy texture.

Here is the nutritional value of one glass of coconut water thats around 240 milliliters:

Coconut water is an excellent beverage option. In fact, with exceptional nutritional content, it harbours multiple health benefits. While it can not be an absolute substitute for regular water, coconut water can definitely be added to your regimen for additional health benefits. Its the perfect post-workout drink and it's absolutely heart-friendly. In fact, it is also known to deliver anti-aging benefits, and that's not all, coconut water is power packed with health benefits.

Coconut water can be an unbeatable addition to your diet because of its endless health benefits. Lets dive right into them.

1. Coconut water is hydrating

When it comes to the benefits of coconut water, hydration actually tops the list. Coconut is flooded with electrolytes like sodium, potassium, as well as magnesium. These electrolytes are essential for the regulation of hydration and regulation of your pH. Apart from being regular hydration essential, coconut water works perfectly as a rehydrating after an intense workout or a day out in the sun. In fact, it works wonders for anyone with an upset stomach. Whether it's nausea or diarrhea coconut water can definitely make up for all the fluid youve been losing.

2. It improves digestion

While water is said to improve and support healthy digestion, consistent consumption of coconut water can takes things to the very next level. Coconut water is rich in fiber as well as magnesium content. Fiber works to smoothen the movement of waste and magnesium works to relax muscles, this in turn works to improve bowel movement and relieve any digestion-related issues.

3. It offers benefits for the skin

While we have established coconut water works to instantly hydrate the body, it is important to understand it also hydrates the skin. With a consistent consumption of tender coconut water, one can achieve optimal skin health. Apart from the essential hydration, it also delivers plenty of Vitamin C around 10 mg per 100g. Vitamin C works to boost the natural collagen formation that effectively reduces signs of aging like lines and wrinkles. It is all you need for radiant and healthy-looking skin.

4. Boosts heart health

Coconut water is rich in potassium which makes it extraordinarily healthy for the cardiovascular system. Scientific studies have shown that consistent potassium consumption has the power to lower the risk for stroke as well as coronary heart diseases. Therefore, coconut water is scientifically backed to help in the prevention of heart diseases.

5. Potentially lowers cholesterol

Another exceptional reason why coconut water is an unbeatable beverage is it works to keep cholesterol levels in check. Plus, it is very low in calories which makes it a healthy drink for anyone trying to lose the extra pounds.

6. It is good for the bones and teeth

With an impressive calcium content, coconut water is said to be helpful for the upkeep of healthy teeth and bones. In fact, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics claims that healthy adults must consume over 1,000 mg of calcium per day for stronger teeth and bones. Coconut water delivers around 60 milligrams of calcium per serving which is a lot considering it has no calories.

7. Prevention of chronic inflammation

Inflammation for an extended period of time may lead to chronic illnesses. Food items with high antioxidant contents are essential for the prevention and treatment of inflammation. Coconut water is one such antioxidant-rich anti-inflammatory agent.

8. Post-workout drink

If youve been looking for a natural post work out drink, you must definitely relish a glass of coconut water. While sports drinks or energy drinks are full of sugar, preservatives, and flavors, coconut water is a 100% natural alternative thats equally refreshing but low in calories as well as carbohydrates. Plus, it is full of electrolytes and is free from any additives. Coconut water can definitely be a terrific post-workout drink because it is filled with rehydrating properties.

9. Full of antioxidants

Coconut water works to deliver a wide range of antioxidants to the body which works to fight free radicals which are potentially harmful to the body. Fresh coconut water is richer in antioxidants as compared to packaged coconut water.

10. Potentially lowers blood sugar

Coconut water is incredibly healthy for anyone suffering from diabetes. It is proven to aid in blood sugar management. Coconut water is rich in magnesium that works to decrease blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes as well as prediabetes. However, for better health management you must consult your health care provider if you suffer from life-threatening or chronic ailments.

11. Coconut water is full of amino acids

Our body requires its proteins but cannot produce them itself. Coconut water is full of amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. The incorporation of coconut water ensures a healthy supply of amino acids and protein in our body. It promotes tissue healing, and a healthy heart and boosts the immune system.

12. Boosts the immune system

Coconut water is full of cytokines, which are also known as tiny proteins. A healthy dose of coconut water boosts the growth of cells that stimulates the bodys immune responses. Cytokinins are also anti-aging and anti-cancerous in nature.

13. Helps in the prevention of kidney stones

Hydration is one of the most important steps in the prevention of kidney stones. Studies have shown that coconut water actively helps in flushing out toxins that which in turn lowers the risk of stones.

14. Helps in weight loss and management

Coconut water works to boost the overall metabolism. It prevents the urge to overeat and prevents weight gain. Plus, coconut water has negligible calorie content which makes it a healthier beverage substitute for soda or juice. Plus, it hardly has any sugar content but is full of nutrients and electrolytes, this is what makes it the perfect low-calorie but revitalizing beverage.

15. Helps get rid of hangovers

Next time you have a hangover, you must get yourself a glass of fresh coconut water. Its non-acidic plus is rich in potassium which will soothe your stomach and effectively help you get rid of that hangover.

With plenty of benefits for the skin and body, coconut water is one of the best natural beverages out there. Whether youre looking for an energy drink substitute, are sick, or are simply thirsty, coconut water is just the right pick. This satisfying electrolyte-rich drink is loaded with a surfeit of health benefits. However, it is advised to go for fresh coconut water instead of packaged ones to incorporate it in all its glory without any side effects.

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15 incredible health benefits of coconut water - PINKVILLA

Healthy lifestyle for a healthy heart, this should be the punchline for everyone who is above the age of 25 in the country of India as well as in any sort of developing country in the world. Health and fitness experts point out that there is a barrage of new change in food habits, alcohol intake, smoking, change in acceptable limitations of these bad habits and most important - excess amount of food available at quick disposition.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Chandrashekhar Kulkarni, Consultant, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery [CVTS] at Global Hospital in Mumbai's Parel, shared, Nowadays, most of the people dont even walk and drive to the restaurant or just order it online. Minimal activity and maximal intake at the wrong time of the day is a harbinger of disease namely heart attack, as well as other problems which can be because of deposition of calcium and cholesterol in the arteries going into your brain, kidneys, heart and intestines. So, this collectively causes reduction in the particular artery. In this case if it is in a heart artery it is called heart attack.

He suggested the following important habits which can curb a heart attack:

1. Dietary modification - Eat sensible, have good intelligent choices when its come to outside food. Try to reduce the amount of quick service restaurants or high intake of salt or fried items. Maybe you can settle for a simple sandwich with some amount of vegetables and very less cheese. Try to avoid double cheese pizza and try to eat simple food bowl with less amount of salt or sugar.

2. Exercise - Burning of the excess calories and excess fats all around your body is a very important and can reduce chances of getting a heart attack especially .

3. Carefully examining your family tree - Understanding the potential hazards of contracting any type of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks, paralysis, kidney disease, and inexplicable loss of fingers and toes due to artery blockages. If there is a heart attack index case in your family, it will be one of the parents or a very close generation of relatives, such as uncles and aunts, if the heart attack occurred around the age of 50. As a result, you should start checking yourself after the age of 35 because you might have a reassuringly high risk of getting yours

4. Maintaining a very minimal amount of alcohol intake and complete refrainment of tobacco - Preventing acquired causes of coronary artery disease is of utmost importance. Keeping a close eye on vitamin B12 intake should also be a top priority. Serum homocysteine levels should also be checked in order to determine whether any particular patient has a family history of early coronary artery disease. These are preventive in many individuals, and straightforward vitamin B complex additions as well as their contributing variables can help avoid serious coronary artery disease in the populations we are seeing today.

Echoing similar suggestions while adding to the list of tips, Dr Zainulabedin Hamdulay, Consulting Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Masina Hospital Heart Institute in Mumbai's Byculla, recommended:

1. Monitor your blood pressure - High blood pressure gradually increases the blood flow in the arteries which makes them less elastic and also damages the cells of the arteries inner linings. The fats from the diet gets collected in these damaged arteries resulting in decrease of oxygen rich blood flow to the heart, this can lead to heart attack. Checking your blood pressure on regular basis can help to keep it under control.

2. Eat a heart healthy diet - Diet is one of the important factor which can help to keep your heart healthy. Other risk factors for heart disease like cholesterol, high blood pressure, inflammation etc. are affected by your diet. Avoid foods which have high levels of saturated & trans fats, salt and sugar. Regular intake of foods which are rich in fibre, minerals, vitamins, whole grains and healthy fats can boost your heart health.

3. Work out regularly - Obesity is a factor that can lead to the onset of cardiac complications. Continuous physical activity is necessary to keep your weight in check. Regular physical activity can also help to control or modify cholesterol level and high blood pressure which are the major risk factors for heart disease. Jogging, running, working out at the gym or home, there are plenty of activities you can do to keep your heart healthy.

4. Manage your stress Stress is a major contributor to all kinds of problems in our life physically, mentally, emotionally, and psychologically. Ongoing stress also known as chronic stress can lead to unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking too much alcohol, less physical activity and overeating which can affect the heart. Effectively dealing with stress is very important. There are many ways like deep breathing, yoga, carving time for hobbies etc., if done on regular basis can help to reduce stress.

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6 habits that can curb a heart attack - Hindustan Times

A calisthenics coaching club in Pune was full of athletes on a mid-July Sunday morning, as they gathered around four pull up bars, two parallel bars, and one monkey bar. There were flying plumes of chalk, and lots of hype music playing in the background. This was the freestyle calisthenics national championship, with the winners getting a spot at the Street Workout World Championships (SWWC) to be held in Latvia in August.

There is no official calisthenics federation in India, primarily because it is not an Olympic sport yet. But the Latvia-basedWorld Street Workouts and Calisthenics Federation (WSWCF) has two affiliated member groups in India. One of these, the National Calisthenics Federation of India, does not operate anymore. The other is the Alphapack Calisthenics India, with five-time national champion Kunal Mahour, 26, acting as the main link between Alphapack and the world federation.

Also Read: The rise and rise of women in calisthenics

National calisthenics champion Kunal Mahour.

The top 16 countries at the SWWC get to send two male athletes and one female athlete to Latvia, and Mahours 13th-placed finish at the competition in Moscow last year has ensured more exposure to Indias calisthenics community. I have been representing India for a few years now, and have decided to take a backseat and start organising more events to make sure others get a chance to compete at the highest level, says the Pune-based athlete.

Mahours organisation also helped India hostthe global qualifiers for the Calisthenics World Cup (another event organised by the world federation) in March, in which athletes from countries around India participated to decide who would compete in the super finals. Ive been in touch with the world federation since 2014 now, and Ive told them how we keep calisthenics alive in the country without funding. But with the kind of response we are getting, it makes sense for India to host more of these events, Mahour says. He adds that there are plans to change the name of Alphapack Calisthenics to something more official sounding.

Also Read: Are continuous glucose monitors a new fitness fad?

The national freestyle championships introduced a female category for the first time this year. Srushti Shah, 22, was one of only two competitors at the event, but it was still a watershed moment for the sport: If I dont start competing now, then when? We have to start at some point, she says. Shah is a computer engineer and now a certified calisthenics coach, and is almost single-handedly inspiring women to take up calisthenics. Apart fromher personal Instagram handle, which has nearly 45,000 followers, she has also started a community calledCalisthenics Girls India and a training platform called Grip It.

We have had more than 200 women turn up for meetups across five cities at calisthenic parks, with the most successful ones called freestyle Fridays, which allows everyone to show their skills and more importantly, learn, she says. Shah will be travelling to Latvia with her own savings, but says that the sport has to grow enough for sponsors to back athletes to make it easier for athletes to compete abroad.

Also Read: 3 great tips to boost your fitness

Competitions usually involve athletes getting two minutes to showcase their skills, often divided in categories such as: static/holds, dynamic moves, and flow. The number of moves in calisthenics is endless, and has interesting names as well. An example would be Srushti Shahs routine: I started with a shrimp and failed it. Then I went on to do an undertopsy, followed by a dragon 360, and finally a reverse flyaway. My statics included a back lever, a front lever, and a one-arm elbow lever.

Having done some calisthenics in life, one of my happiest moments in a gym was when Mahour and other trainers gathered around for my muscle-up 360 attempt, celebrating the first time I managed to pull off a grab. This is the kind of support and camaraderie that fuels the sport. Pioneers like him and Srushti Shah are important to the sustenance of the sport, and producing better athletes.

Also Read: 5 great accessories for your monsoon workouts

The gap in international competition is reducing, but India is not that far off. When Mahour finished 13th at the SWWC, he scored of 35 out of 60. The first-placed athlete had a score of 52 and the 2nd-placed athlete 48. The 10th-placed athlete had 38 points. I think where we are right now could be accelerated with some kind of government support but if you take that out of the equation, calisthenics is accelerating at a very exciting level in India, he says.

As for Shah, she is revelling at the fact that so many women are stepping forward to learn. Six months ago, hardly a few people could do a back lever. In the last meetup I attended, I saw 20 athletes get it right. The clincher in calisthenics is that of course it looks cool but it also develops your fitness and physique. The added sweetener is you have a skill under your belt which isnt a conventional lift of some kind.

Pulasta Dhar is a football commentator and writer.

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Is calisthenics India's newest fitness and sports cult? - Mint Lounge