It's early morning at a cemetery in Harare and the silence is being broken by a fitness class.

Having been cooped up inside during the global health crisis, many Zimbabweans have become more health conscious.

But townships like this one, Warren Park, have few facilities - and residents have been forced to improvise.

Training instructor Tichaona Macheka says a graveyard gives them room to exercise.

"Maybe, if we go and train at home, we will make noise for the other neighbors, so we decided here, because many people say at a graveyard space, there is space -- a lot of space there, and peace. So, we decided to come here."

The Warren Hills cemetery is a popular location and for many residents, like social worker Agenes Chigunde, the classes have become a part of their daily routine.

"I realized I was gaining too much weight. I was overweight. I can say I was obese. So, I was like, to myself, I need to do something about it. I need to burn some calories, and have a normal body."

However, for some, lycra-clad aerobics near the last resting places of loved ones might seem distasteful. For others, a bit spooky.

19-year-old Lesly Madebuko says the graveyard makes some feel uncomfortable.

"... but I see nothing wrong about coming here. Our rural folk are always superstitious, but we are not afraid."

For the health-conscious residents of Warren Park the cemetery is a smart solution to the lack of facilities.

The classes also make it possible to fit exercise into packed schedules, whilst getting a chance to socialize.

As one group session winds up, mourners start to arrive.

Music is switched off, joggers run their last laps, and the cemetery returns to its daily calm.

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Graveyard Workouts Give Zimbabweans Space to Keep Fit - VOA Zimbabwe

Mayank Kumar, MD and CEO, upGrad

Note to readers: Fit to lead is a series of interviews with business leaders on their approach to fitness, leadership and navigating the new normal.

Mayank Kumar is well aware of the power of the Kendriya Vidyalayas (commonly known as KVs), the government schools across India. After all he studied in one in a remote village in the Bongaigaon district of Assam, where he spent 18 formative years. My subsidised education in KV was one of the main reasons for launching upGrad, explains Kumar, the co-founder and managing director of upGrad. Kumar, who has a mechanical engineering degree from IIT-Delhi, started his career in consulting at Tata Strategic Management Group before joining the Indian School of Business in 2008-09, which was one of the worst times globally to graduate from a B-school.

Between an engineering degree and consulting, Kumar got into education by accident. In his new consulting job, he was asked to work in the education space and fell so much in love with it that he even joined a venture capital group to set up their education investment arm. Investment wasnt enough skin in the game and I wanted to do more in education because I didnt know anything other than education, says a very Zen-sounding Agarwal from his flat in south Mumbai. Thats what led to starting upGrad in 2015.

Kumar played table tennis all through school and even played at the zonal level. He also played cricket and football and ran a half marathon in 2008. However, after joining B-School and consulting, he had no life left. However, he has returned to running and does so regularly. It helps me meditate and gather my thoughts for a productive day ahead while also pushing me further to compete with myself and become a better version of me, he says.

Edited excerpts from an interview:

Your fitness routine

I spend about an hour a day about 4-5 times a week on fitness or outdoor activities. Typically, I do this in the morning after I drop off my son to the schoolbus. I go to the gym 2-3 days a week for strength-training under the guidance of my personal trainer. I run 5km to 10km outdoors at least twice a week.

Favourite fitness activity

I sincerely enjoy running and participating in marathons. I run half marathons regularly, as it gives me enough time to take my mind off work and other distractions.

The toughest?

A 40-day health challenge that my wife enrolled me in. It required me to follow a strict diet that involved zero consumption of white rice, sugar, white flour, milk and alcohol. The fitness component was high-intensity interval training. That has been the toughest. But it worked for me in a good way.

The new normal

These days Im largely occupied with more in-person meetings rather than Zoom or video calls as compared to the last two years, which has increased my work travel.

Has your fitness routine helped you navigate the uncertainties of the current times?

My fitness routine has increased my concentration levels while also helping me stay active, efficient and attentive for a longer period of time. It has also pushed me to make decisions much faster and promptly. I enjoy that discipline in my life where Im getting involved in some sort of fitness activities every day. It helps in bringing down my stress levels or other stress-led symptoms significantly. Not to miss, all of these factors have increased my productivity while also helping me navigate better towards everyday chores.

The one change you would encourage your teammates to make to deal with the challenges of current times.

I encourage my colleagues to spend an hour a day at least four times a week on their health. Health apart, it also makes you far more productive while giving you personal space to vent out the stress or pressure leading to a more relaxed mind. Fitness routine helps the mind and body to experience a reset and perform effectively, else it might just burn out and collapse.

Leadership lessons in your fitness journey

Its important to constantly push the envelope and push for something better.

There are no shortcuts to hard work and consistency, therefore, show-up every day.

Stop making excuses, you are the only one accountable.

If you are pushed into uncomfortable situations, youll come out stronger.

Things dont get easier, but you have to grow stronger.

What impact does your image of a fit leader have on your team?

I have always encouraged peers and colleagues to be more consistent, focused and committed towards a particular goal. Otherwise, one might get distracted easily. Also, I feel that if I could take out time from my schedule, so can they. Its mostly about prioritizing commitments for a better and healthy lifestyle.

Has being fit helped you become a better leader and a better version of yourself?

Yes, 100 percent. It has helped me physically and, more than that, mentally. It makes you grow stronger and confident about yourself while also teaching you a certain amount of self-discipline.

Your leadership style

Extremely approachable and open to constructive feedback.

Open to giving my colleagues and team members more freedom and flexibility to make their own decisions for an enhanced output.

I have a bias for action.

The art of over communicating, which Im still working on.

What about work-life balance?

There are no excuses for work-life balance. We have to maintain discipline and draw a line somewhere tocreate that balance. My routine has helped me with that extra time for myself, my health and my family.

Goals for the year

I aim to participate in at least three to four half marathons and finish them in under 2 hours tomaintain my health and sanity.

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Fit to Lead | upGrad's Mayank Kumar: Running helps me gather my thoughts for a productive day ahead - Moneycontrol

If you want to lose body fat, gain muscle or maintain your weight, there's an important health metric you should know about: your basal metabolic rate. Your BMR is the minimum number of calories that your body needs to function at rest. You may think you only need energy to exercise or complete tasks, but your body has a specific energy need just to complete basic functions like breathing and regulating your hormone levels.

Your BMR is not in itself a tool for weight loss, but it can be a helpful starting point for figuring out how to adjust your diet and exercise goals. The problem with a lot of diets and weight loss programs out there is that they are "one size fits all." But every person is different, so taking one meal plan and applying it to multiple people just does not work. Your BMR is calculated based on several different factors that are personal to you, like your age, gender, current weight and activity level.

Keep reading to find out about what BMR is, how to calculate it and how it can help you with your nutrition and exercise goals.

Read more: How Many Calories Should You Burn Each Day to Lose Weight?

BMR calculators use several different factors, like age and gender, to determine your BMR.

Many people use BMR as a starting point to calculate their daily calorie needs and how to best adjust them to reach their goals. In fact, many macro calculators, like the popular IIFYM, incorporate BMR into their calculations for telling you about your calorie intake and macro needs based on your goals.

One common misconception about BMR is that it is the amount of calories your body burns at rest, but that is a different metric -- resting metabolic rate or (RMR). Your BMR is what energy your body needs to perform basic functions, while RMR is the amount of calories that your body burns while at rest. Some people use the measurements interchangeably, but they aren't necessarily the same thing.

There are many different calculators available online that can calculate your estimated BMR. Note that some of them will ask you to enter your body fat percentage, which many people do not know. If you don't, you can make an estimate or use the images provided (like IIFYM does) to guess.

Some of the best BMR calculators:

Once you start learning about your BMR, you will likely also find information on total daily energy expenditure, orTDEE, since BMR is often calculated first to find TDEE.

Your BMR tells you your calorie needs, when you take that number plus how much you burn every day during normal activity and exercise, you get your TDEE. So really, TDEE is the number that you work off of for figuring out how to adjust macros or calories for body composition goals, according to IIFYM.

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Weight loss is tricky, but using calculators that factor in your BMR are helpful for taking a more customized approach for your calories and macronutrient needs. The way that most macros and BMR-based calculators work is by factoring in your TDEE with your goals.

If you want to lose weight, you have to be in a calorie deficit, meaning the calculator will set your daily food intake to equal less calories than what you burn. Sometimes when you take an online quiz to find this number, you will be asked how fast you'd like to lose weight. Then the calorie deficit will be adjusted accordingly. The faster you want results, the more extreme you will have to be with cutting calories. But many experts say that slow and steady is optimal compared to trying to lose a lot of weight quickly.

If you want to maintain your weight instead of lose or gain, then knowing your BMR and TDEE can help you know how many calories you should aim to consume each day to maintain your weight. On the flipside of weight loss is gaining muscle mass. This too requires that you strategically approach your nutrition and add calories into your day (likely in the form of protein and carbs) to make sure you can gain muscle.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

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Your BMR Is the Key to Losing Weight or Gaining Muscle - CNET

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Do you struggle with starting or maintaining a fitness routine? Dont worry, youre not alone. While most of us know that exercise is beneficial, fitness can be daunting, especially if youre over 65 and want to be sure that you work out in a way that is safe and effective. The good news? Physical activity is key to maintaining health and mobility as you age, and if you are 65 or older, the right Medicare Advantage Plan can provide tools and resources to help you get off the couch. If you just need a little motivation to reengage in your fitness and social routines or would like to start a new one, there are more choices than ever in exercise and wellness options.

Meeting seniors where they are

No matter your age, the ongoing pandemic has caused tremendous changes in our lives, including an increase in physical and mental health issues because of social isolation. Many seniors were understandably cautious due to a heightened health risk and experienced a greater disruption of trusted routines. More good news? We continue to see a return to our lifestyles and activities.

A recent nationwide poll by Tivity Health, a leading provider of healthy lifestyle solutions, including SilverSneakers, the nations leading community fitness program designed for older adults, shows that seniors no longer just work out at the gym or at home, but enjoy the freedom to exercise how and where they please: indoors, outdoors, at the gym or community center, together or alone, in-person or virtual.

The poll also found that over the last few months, 78% of seniors have engaged in some type of physical activity, the highest proportion in months. More seniors are engaging in activities that bring them joy and can include a variety of movements walking, household chores, gardening, hiking, etc. By identifying how the past few years have unsettled these daily routines, we can take steps to help older adults re-energize and re-engage in healthy activities that are enjoyable and encourage valuable social connections.

All you need is an iPhone

By joining forces with Apple Fitness+, the award-winning fitness and wellness service designed to be welcoming to all, SilverSneakers members in participating health plans will soon have access to Apple Fitness+, with workout types from Strength to Yoga, guided mediations, and more at no additional cost. Programming allows members to exercise where they want, when they want with world-class workouts and fitness programming curated for a range of skill levels and interests.

We know that fitness isnt one size fits all, especially with todays dynamic senior population, said Richard Ashworth, president, and CEO of Tivity Health. Seniors need a variety of options for physical activity that fit their lifestyles. Our partnership with Apple Fitness+ offers fitness for all skill levels, interests and goals including a wide array of content presented by expert instructors and celebrity guests.

Seniors can change the fitness industry

The fitness industry is changing. According to the International Council on Active Aging, a large and growing number of products and services are being developed to allow people to fully enjoy the gift of a longer life, which requires a foundation of good health. Exercise remains critical for seniors to maintain a healthy immune system thats able to fight off disease and consistent exercise can improve balance and strength and help prevent falls. One trend the pandemic saw was the rise of digital and virtual care, and its here to stay. About one in four seniors are currently using a device to monitor their health and well-being, and the use of video calls to socially connect with friends and family has steadily increased in the past few months.

Fitness is more than a workout

As a fitness instructor, I see firsthand how exercise can change a persons life. But fitness is more than just a workout, said Jen Burgmeier, 2022 SilverSneakers Instructor of the Year. I have SilverSneakers members who attend classes both in-person and virtually, and I love that they have a choice to work out when and where they want. One of my members recently said that the laughter and camaraderie coming through her computer screen makes you feel like you could conquer anything! I get so much joy out of seeing them take meaningful steps to improve their health and watch them fall in love with SilverSneakers.

Dont wait until January to jump-start your fitness journey. The Medicare annual enrollment period runs until December 7, so you still have time to review and choose a plan that includes SilverSneakers. For more information on how seniors can check their eligibility, visit: silversneakers.com.

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Senior Fitness: You may have more choices than you think - Philadelphia Sunday Sun

2022 DEC 02 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Insurance Daily News -- Investigators publish new report on data systems. According to news reporting originating from Amsterdam University Medical Center by NewsRx correspondents, research stated, Between 2019 and 2021, the first Irish health system performance assessment (HSPA) framework was developed. As routinely collected health data are necessary to continuously populate indicators of an HSPA framework, a purpose-driven assessment of the health information system (HIS) in Ireland and its fitness to support the implementation of an HSPA framework was conducted.

Funders for this research include H2020 Marie Sklodowska-curie Actions.

Our news reporters obtained a quote from the research from Amsterdam University Medical Center: This study reports on the status of the Irish HIS through a multimethod assessment based on continuous broad stakeholder involvement. Between May and November 2020, over 50 informants were engaged in individual and group interviews and stakeholder consultation workshops as part of the HIS assessment process. Descriptive themes and high-level data availability heatmaps were derived from interview and workshop data using thematic analysis. Indicator passports for the HSPA framework were populated during stakeholder consultation workshops and analysed using univariate descriptive statistics. The HIS in Ireland was able to provide administrative, survey and registry-based data for public sector acute care services, focusing on structure, process and output metrics. Significant data availability gaps, most notably from primary care, private hospitals and community care, were reported, with little availability of electronic health record and people-reported data. Data on outcome metrics were mostly missing, as were linkage possibilities across datasets for care pathway monitoring. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the national HISs shortcomings but also the capacity for rapid development and improvement.

According to the news editors, the research concluded: A tailor-made assessment of the HIS in Ireland, involving a broad set of relevant stakeholders, revealed strengths, weaknesses and areas for improvement in the Irish health data landscape. It also contributed to the development of a national HSPA framework and momentum to further strengthen data infrastructure and governance, while working towards a more data-driven and person-centred healthcare system. This work demonstrates the utility of an inclusive HIS assessment process and is applicable beyond Ireland, where this case study was conducted.

For more information on this research see: Status of the health information system in Ireland and its fitness to support health system performance assessment: a multimethod assessment based on stakeholder involvement. Health Research Policy and Systems, 2022,21(1):1-12. (Health Research Policy and Systems - http://www.health-policy-systems.com/). The publisher for Health Research Policy and Systems is BMC.

A free version of this journal article is available at https://doi.org/10.1186/s12961-022-00931-1.

Our news journalists report that more information may be obtained by contacting Damir Ivankovic, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam University Medical Center Location University of Amsterdam. Additional authors for this research include Tessa Jansen, Erica Barbazza, Oscar Brito Fernandes, Niek Klazinga, Dionne Kringos.

(Our reports deliver fact-based news of research and discoveries from around the world.)

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Studies from Amsterdam University Medical Center Yield New Data on Data Systems (Status of the health information system in Ireland and its fitness to...

Not trying to throw shade at cereal, weve all enjoyed a big ole bowl with nice, cold milk but there are quicker and better breakfast options. Remember those bowls with built-in straws so you could sip the sugar-filled milk that the cereal created? I do. It might have done your tastebuds good, but your health, not so much.

Breakfast, (Break-the-fast) is an important meal; its the first thing youre feeding your body after a night of fasting while it repairs torn muscle fibers and rejuvenates cells. Its the energy that will fuel your morning and provide your body with much-needed nutrients. For avid exercisers, this bumps your morning meal to top priority when it comes to consuming clean fuel.

End the better breakfast struggles with fit chef Joshua Bailey If youve struggled with putting health first at breakfast time, or arent really sure how to, Joshua Bailey chef and personal trainer is a breakfast-building pro who lays the groundwork for you for creating flavor-packed, nutritious morning meals.

Bailey takes pride in prioritizing making a healthy breakfast to start his day. I always try to include a source of protein, carbohydrate, and greens, while my go-to breakfast usually consists of eggs, oatmeal, and a protein shake, says Bailey.

Quick breakfast options such as cereal tend to be very high in added sugar and contain absolutely no nutritional value, he adds. That doesnt mean you have to give it up forever, it just simply shouldnt be your everyday meal.

I would be lying if I said I didnt occasionally enjoy a bowl of cereal myself, says Bailey, but try and be aware of how often you include it in your diet.

So skip the cereal, as Bailey offers several simple yet effective tips that will take all the guesswork out of building your morning fuel.

Building a better breakfast all comes down to incorporating simple swaps and choosing high-quality ingredients. Making simple swaps and being conscious of what ingredients you are adding to your food when cooking can make all the difference, says Bailey. An example of this looks like swapping pre-made sugar-filled oats with plain steel-cut oats and dressing them with healthy toppings like sliced almonds and berries. When choosing breakfast foods, It is important to make choices based on your body and your personal goals, Bailey says. Now, lets get to the building.

Protein and nutrient-packed enjoyed by millions. While the yolk hosts strong nutritional value, to lower unnecessary fat content, Bailey suggests limiting yolks, depending on how many eggs you normally consume). I make the conscious choice to only use one egg yolk in order to eliminate unnecessary fat intake from eating eight egg yolks, he says.

Opting for organic, free-range eggs is also a way to up your egg health. Supporting local farmers is a great way to boost your morning nutrients while supporting your community.

When cooking the eggs, try using cooking spray instead of butter, to once again avoid excess fats.

Because breakfast meats tend to be very high in sodium, Bailey steers clear of them and suggests you try make alternative adjustments as much as possible. If you want to include a slice of morning meat, opt for low-sodium turkey bacon instead. This way, your experience pops of flavor minus more fat, excess sodium, and calories.

If you have lean protein leftovers from dinner like chicken or steak, cubing the meat and tossing them in the pan with the eggs makes for a tasty protein addition without sacrificing health.

Sure, those ready-made oats packed with sugar may taste delicious, but are probably not the best choice if youve got fitness goals to achieve (and you probably already know this. Bailey recommends eating traditional, unflavored oats topped with a small amount of brown sugar and a very light drizzle of maple syrup. This way youre giving your tastebuds a treat without overdoing the sugar content.

A bowl of plain oats is a blank slate and there are many clean toppings at your service. Berries, nuts, nut butter, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg make for a flavorful bowl. Oats are a complex carb that will keep you full longer and your body absorbs more nutrients from complex carbohydrates, Bailey says. So, build your bowl with your favorite toppings and youre good to go!

The fantastic thing about protein shakes and smoothies is the amount of nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals you can add to one glass. Baileys morning protein shake normally includes fruits and veggies which can lack in many diets.

My go-to shake includes Strawberries, blueberries, and bananas. Spinach, peanut butter, almond milk, protein powder, and the occasional scoop of reds and greens, Bailey says.

Depending on what you include in your shake, the drink alone could serve as a breakfast by itself. Opting for protein, fats, and carbs is the goal.

For mornings that dont go as planned, there are bars that are a clean, grab-and-go option. Kickstart your morning (especially when running late), with this plant-based, soft and chewy breakfast bar. With 8g of plant-based protein, BC30 probiotics to support immune health, 14g of whole grains, and 4g of prebiotic fiber, The Complete KickStart is filled with goodness to start your day off right!

Building a better breakfast will build better health. All you need to do is be diligent about consuming clean, whole ingredients while swapping out the not-so-healthy ones. One breakfast at a time.

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Build a Better Breakfast With These Eggcellent Tips - Muscle & Fitness

Crunches and sit-ups are some of the most fundamental ab workouts, but there are other options if you want to build core strength. Instead, you can use this four-move kettlebell workout to strengthen your core, work your whole body, and boost your metabolism.

All you need to get started is one of thebest kettlebells (opens in new tab)and a bit of space. These versatile weights make a great companion for at-home workouts, as moves like kettlebell swings and presses work your whole body. Plus, a kettlebell is much easier to store away than an entire weights rack or several dumbbells.

This three-move routine comes from fitness coach and founder ofIt's So Simple (opens in new tab), Rachel Sacerdoti, who explains that kettlebells are her "favorite pieces of equipment and [are] a brilliant piece of kit to use when performing deadlift variations."

Rather than focus on swings and upper body moves, Sacerdoti's program is designed around kettlebell deadlifts, with conventional lifts alongside Romanian, Sumo, and single-leg Romanian deadlift variations. You'll do 12 repetitions of each exercise and repeat the routine three times for a muscle-building workout.

When you learnhow to deadlift with dumbbells (opens in new tab), you usually hold a weight in each hand, but you only need a single kettlebell for this routine. This works alternative muscles, as the weight is concentrated in a different area, helping work your core for stability and developing lower body strength.

Although the technique is similar between dumbbell and kettlebell deadlifts, you can follow Sacerdoti's demonstrations to perfect your form before starting. This is essential if you want to get the most from your training and avoid injuring yourself, which can be a concern when exercising with weights.

Sacerdoti uses a 35lb/16kg kettlebell for these four deadlift variations, but the aim is to find a weight that will challenge your muscles without affecting your form. Adjustable kettlebells can help with this as you can quickly adjust the load, but they are generally more expensive than fixed-load options like those you'd find at the gym.

If you want to put your new skills to good use, thiskettlebell workout for beginners (opens in new tab)is a great place to start. You'll also take on goblet squats, bent-over rows, and weighted lunges alongside deadlifts. But one of the most impactful moves for working your whole body is the kettlebell swing.

Learninghow to do kettlebell swings (opens in new tab)is one of the best ways to build full-body strength, work your core, and raise your heart rate to boost your metabolism and burn fat. Just be sure you keep your protein levels up to promote muscle growth by adding one of thebest protein powders for weight loss (opens in new tab)to your post-workout routine.

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Want to build core strength? Skip the crunches and do this kettlebell deadlift workout - Fit and Well

More than 38,000 gyms and health clubs have been shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic as of May 2020

MIAMI (PRWEB) December 02, 2022

Harrison Co. reported that over 38,000 gyms and health clubs closed down because of the COVID-19 pandemic as of May 2020. It is why 40% of gym members exercised at home for the first time, resulting in 83% of trainers working primarily online after the pandemic, as per The Personal Trainer Development Center.

DesignRush, a B2B marketplace connecting businesses with agencies, interviewed Jill Rankin, senior vice president of marketing at 24 Hour Fitness, to find out how the brand adjusted to the challenges of the past two years.

Interview highlights include:

Get to know these and more in the full Spotlight interview.

About DesignRush:

DesignRush.com is a B2B marketplace connecting businesses with agencies through expert reviews and agency ranking lists, awards, knowledge resources, and personalized agency recommendations for vetted projects.

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Jill Rankin Of 24 Hour Fitness On Their Brand Refresh [DesignRush Spotlight] - PR Web

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Looking for the perfect gift for the fitness enthusiast in your life? Look no further than any of the Theragun products below -- all of which are on major discount this weekend. Save $200 on a Theragun Pro, or get $50 off a Theragun Mini, which makes an excellentstocking stuffer (in our expert opinion).

Check out all the best Theragun deals below, plus all the Cyber Monday fitness deals you can still shop this weekend -- but hurry, there's no guarantee how long these sales will last.

Theragun Prois a professional-grade device constructed for physical therapists, trainers and other professionals, but it's also great for athletes, however amateur. Like the Theragun Elite, it is equipped with an OLED screen and a customizable speed range of 1,750 to 2,400 PPMs (percussions per minute) with three presets. However, instead of 40 pounds of force, the Pro boasts 60 and is the only model with an adjustable arm, allowing for easier use.

The Theragun Pro comes with six attachments: a dampener, standard ball, wedge, thumb, cone and super soft tip. A two-year warranty (compared to just one with the less expensive models) makes it more appealing for anyone who might use the gadget daily.

Theragun Pro, $400 (reduced from $599)

TheTheragun Eliteis really simple to use -- you control the intensity of the massage via an up or down press of a button and by varying the pressure you apply on your muscle. (We recommend, from first-hand experience, starting with a lighter touch.) The triangular design makes it really easy to reach all areas of your body on your own, at just the right angles -- even those otherwise hard-to-reach spots on your back. It includes five attachments -- a dampener, standard ball, thumb, cone and wedge.

It's a high-end splurge, to be sure, but trust us -- you'll wind up getting a lot of use out of this massage gun once you know how good it makes you feel after a session.

Theragun Elite, $298 (reduced from $399)

Theragun Elite, $299 (reduced from $400)

Primeis Theragun's most basic, standard-sized model, with up to 30 pounds of force. It also offers a five-speed range with customizable speed through the Theragun app and weighs 2.2 pounds. It's also equipped with four attachments: dampener, standard ball, thumb and cone.

This model is quite user-friendly and will suit the needs of the average person suffering from muscle soreness, tightness and pain.

Theragun Prime, $198 (reduced from $299)

Theragun Prime, $199 (reduced from $299)

TheTheragun Miniweighs just 1.43 pounds. It offers 20 pounds of force and three speeds -- 1,750; 2,100 and 2,400 PPMs. While the three standard-size Theragun models are Bluetooth enabled, the mini is not. The Mini may not replace the need for a full-size, full-powered massage gun, but it is a great supplementary option for anyone who travels often or wants to bring a massage gun to the gym.

The Mini is covered under a one-year warranty.

Theragun Mini, $150 (reduced from $199)

Theragun Mini, $150 (reduced from $200)

The holidays are fast approaching. Give yourself, your friends and your family the gift of a very fit new year. We've created the ultimate fitness gift guide for 2022.

Gift your friends and family the home gym equipment they really want. Skip the same, old resistance bands and dumbbells -- we're talking top-rated fitness gifts for the ultimate gym lover. Shop fitness must-haves, including thePeloton bike,Fitbit ChargeandGirlfriend Collective leggings.

Here's more of our top-rated picks fromHydrow,Apple,Pelotonand a whole lot more.

We've found stationary bikes that suit a wide variety of budgets. Shop bikes fromPeloton,Schwinnand more.

This indoor fitness bike features 32 manual resistance levels, a wide seat, padded handlebars and fully adjustable toe cages to keep feet in.

This Cyber Monday deal includes a 30 day free Echelon membership trial for the brand's live and on-demand classes.

"Love this bike!" wrote a Walmart customer. "So easy to use, well worth the price. Set up fairly straightforward. Echelon App is a bit annoying to set up but after that not bad. Classes are great motivation, most fun I've had doing a workout in awhile!"

Echelon Connect Sport-S indoor cycling bike, $297 (regularly $799)

Looking for more Echelon fitness equipment on sale for Cyber Monday?

TheEchelon sport exercise roweris on sale for Cyber Monday. The rower features 32 levels of magnetic resistance and a built-in tablet holder (up to 12.9 inches). It easily folds up when not in use for easy storage.

The Echelon Sport exercise rower normally retails for $597, but you'll pay $297 -- less than half price -- at the Walmart Deals for Days Cyber Monday sale, happening now.

Includes a 30-day free trial membership to Echelon Premiere, with more than 40 daily live and 15,000 on-demand fitness classes. (Echelon Premiere costs $34.99 per month after that; membership is not required to use the rower.)

Echelon Sport exercise rower, $297 (reduced from $597)

Clip into aPeloton Bikefor a cycling workout like no other. This small-space-friendly bike features delta-compatible pedals, a resistance knob for manual control, a two-channel, rear-facing stereo speaker system with 16W of total power, 10-point multitouch touchscreen, USB micro port, 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, 5MP front-facing camera, built-in microphone and volume buttons.

A Peloton All-Access Membership ($44 monthly) must be purchased separately to access Peloton content on your Bike. Membership offers unlimited access to Peloton's entire library of content available on your new bike and through the Peloton App.

Original Peloton Bike, $1,145 (reduced from $1,445)

This stationary bike has a belt-driven system for a smooth and quiet ride, an adjustable non-slip handlebar and a tablet holder. Its LCD monitor tracks time, speed, distance and calories burned. There is a water bottle holder and wheels on the bike, so that it can easily be moved.

Yosuda indoor cycling bike, $230 with coupon (reduced from $440)

This spin bike has a weighted flywheel and quiet belt drive system. It has an adjustable seat and handlebars, plus a water bottle holder. Stream your workout on your TV or a laptop in front of you, or invest in a tablet holder for this bike's handlebars, as it doesn't come with a tablet or workout streaming subscription.

Sunny Health & Fitness indoor exercise bike, $250 (reduced from $399)

Rowing is become the hot new fitness trend. These home rowing machines make an excellent holiday gift.

The Hydrow rowing machine features an adjustable 22-inch HD screen, an aluminum and steel frame and a customizable footbed. The Hydrow Rower fits heights up to a 36-inch inseam and weights up to 375 pounds. Rated 4.8 stars at Best Buy.

Learn more about the Hydrow rower, here.

Hydrow Rower, $1,995 (regularly $2,495)

Hydrow Rower + 1 year Hydrow subscription, $2,451 (regularly $2,951)

The Hydrow Rower's small-space-suitable successor features a 16-inch HD screen, stainless steel seat track, durable polymer frame and an adjustable footbed. Despite its smaller size, the Hydrow Wave also fits heights up to a 36-inch inseam and weights up to 375 pounds.

Hydrow Wave rowing machine, $1,495 (reduced from $1,695)

This storage kit includes a bracket, strap and detailed installation guide, so you can store your Hydrow Rower in a space-saving, upright position.

Hydrow upright storage kit, $80

If the weather outside is frightful, you might as well workout inside where it's warm. We've found treadmill deals that suit a variety of budgets.

The NordicTrack T Series 6.5 S treadmillis equipped with one-touch, zero to 10 percent incline control, can reach speeds of up to 10 mph, and be folded up into the frame for storage. It has a 300-pound capacity.

"Precise and well-crafted, the unit smoothly folds upright to reduce the footprint in my living space,"reviewer Morgan Powers says. "The console immediately synced with my home Wi-Fi. Graphics/audio on the 10-inch monitor are crystal clear."

The treadmill is available in two varieties: one with a five-inch display screen; and, one with a 10-inch display screen.

NordicTrack T Series 6.5 S treadmill (5" inch display screen), $552 (reduced from $649)

NordicTrack T Series 6.5 S treadmill (10" inch display screen), $999

Bowflex treadmills boast motorized incline ranges from -5% to 20%, Comfort Tech deck cushioning, SoftDrop folding systems and bluetooth capabilities. They also come with a one year JRNY membership ($149), which grants you access to the JRNY app, featuring a wide range of fitness classes taught by world-class trainers. Starting at $1,100 during the brand's sale, you can score the biggest deal on theBowflex Treadmill 10.

Bowflex Treadmill BXT8J $1,099 (reduced from $1,300, save $200)

Bowflex Treadmill 10, $1,499 (reduced from $1,999, save $500)

Bowflex Treadmill 22, $2,499 (reduced from $2,699, save $200)

Consider this treadmill desk for the friend or family member who works from home and wants to get more movement into their daily routine.

The adjustable work station has a 350-pound lifting capacity. The treadmill desk can be customized to have the finish, desk shape, top size and accessories of your choice.

Jarvis treadmill desk, $2,363 (reduced from $2,954) and up

Know someone who works from home and doesn't have a ton of space? This mini walking treadmill is the perfect size to slide under a standing desk. When it's not in use, this fitness machine can be folded to almost half its size for easy storage.

Choose from five colors.

WalkingPad C2 Mini foldable walking treadmill, $550 (regularly $600)

Track your fitness goals this year with a top-rated wearable. Shop smart watches and smart jewelry from Fitbit,Apple,Samsungand more.

This on-sale fitness tracker features a 1.69-inch super-large and colorful HD display so you can easily see calls and texts. This smart watch has a 14-day battery life, making it a great gift idea for anyone who constantly forgets to charge their devices.

This wallet-friendly wearable provides blood-oxygen saturation measurement, monitors all-day heart rate, gives abnormal heart rate warnings, monitors stress levels and tracks sleep and menstrual cycles. Plus, it's a steal a just $35.

"I love the long battery life -- lasts 2 weeks without a charge!" wrote a Walmart customer. "Also, nice big screen with many watch faces to choose from. I also like that I can take a shower or swim and not worry about the watch because it is water resistant. I would highly recommend this watch."

Amazfit Bip 3 Urban Edition smart watch, $35 (regularly $60)

The Fitbit Sense is an advanced fitness tracker that tracks heart health, sleep, exercise and more. It includes an ECG app that can assess wearers for heart-rhythm irregularity, including atrial fibrillation. It also has an electrodermal-activity sensor that records your skin temperature to measure stress.

Fitbit Premium members can receive a "Daily Readiness Score" that tells you if you're ready to exercise or should focus on recovery. It's no longer on sale but is still a great buy.

Fitbit Sense, $140, (reduced from $250)

The Apple Watch Ultra is designed to be a more rugged and durable option for athletes and adventurers. It provides up to 36 hours of life on a single charge with standard use or 60 hours of battery life with the soon-to-be-released battery optimization setting. It is made with a stronger titanium alloy material for improved impact resistance. It also offers a brighter display and a second speaker for better sound and display visibility during outdoor use. Apple says it's optimized for diving and water sports.

The Apple Watch Ultra provides enhanced GPS functionality to trace your steps and improve navigation for outdoor expeditions. There is also an action button that can be used to more accurately track your workouts by marking segments of your workout.

Apple Watch Ultra (GPS + cellular, 49mm), $739 (reduced from $799)

The larger, somewhat weightier45mm Apple Watch Series 7is on sale at Amazon right now.

Apple Watch Series 7 GPS (45mm), $310 (reduced from $429)

TheSamsung Galaxy Watch 5is an upgrade from the popular Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. It features 10W smart-charging capabilities, a notable upgrade from the slower 5W charging offered by the prior model. It also offers an advanced workout algorithm and sleep tracking technology.

The Galaxy Watch 5 features an advanced bioactive sensor that collects more accurate data. This data can be managed and tracked in the Samsung Health app.

This is the first time that Samsung is offering its sapphire glass on its non-premium smartwatch options. (Sapphire glass isn't actually glass. It is a ceramic that mimics the transparency of glass and offers more durability.)

Like prior Galaxy Watch models, the Galaxy Watch 5 is available in 40mm and 44mm display sizes. It is also available in five colors.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, $230 and up (reduced from $280 and up)

A water-resistant, budget-friendly alternative to the Apple Watch, and compatible with both Android and iOS, theAmazfit Bip Uboasts a longer battery lifeup to nine days per chargeand a variety of activity tracking options.

Measure heart rate, blood oxygen levels, breathing, sleep quality and even stress levels. Women can track periods and get reminders when it's almost that time of the month.

Amazfit Bip U, $42 (reduced from $60)

Released in late 2021, the slender, Alexa-enabledAmazon Halo Viewmeasures heart rate, activity, sleep and even blood-oxygen levels. It also offers connectability to popular health apps, such as Headspace and Bettersleep, as well as connectivity to your phone. It also boasts a seven-day battery life.

Another added bonus? Each watch comes with a 12-month membership subscription with access to workout and programs. After the trial period, it auto-renews at $4 per month.

Amazon Halo View, $35 (reduced from $80)

The latest incarnation of the popular Charge line from Fitbit,this well-equipped activity and health trackerpacks advanced technology into a slender device and features a color touchscreen. The smartphone-enabled device helps you manage stress and stay on top of heart health and sleep.

Android users can even respond to text messages.

Fitbit Charge 5, $100 (reduced from $150)

The Garmin Instinct 2 Serieswas introduced in February. It's built not just to be worn, but to beactivelyworn. It's an outdoorsy, thermal- and shock-resistant GPS smartwatch that boasts damage- and scratch-resistant glass. It measures your heart rate, stress level, sleep metrics, blood oxygen, your fitness age and more. It delivers daily workout prompts, comes with built-in workout and sport apps and even tracks your mountain-biking stats, if any. Download apps from Garmin's Garmin Connect IQ store to up the watch's game even more, and track everything from hydration to menstrual cycles. The battery will last up to 30 hours in GPS mode -- and up to 28 days in smartwatch mode. Or get the solar version for what Garmin says will be unlimited battery life.

The Instinct 2 Series comes in two case sizes: 40mm and 45mm. It also comes in a range of editions, from standard to surf and more. Pictured above is the 40mm, solar, standard-edition Instinct 2 in mist gray. This version of the watch lists for $450.

Garmin Instinct 2 Series (40mm) standard edition, solar (mist gray), $398 (reduced from $450)

The premiumGarmin Epix, launched in January, is not just another outdoor-ready Garmin smartwatch -- it's an outdoor-ready Garmin smartwatch with a luxe look. Billed as a "premium multisport watch," the Epix features an AMOLED display, and, in a nice touch, comes with preloaded maps to thousands of golf courses and ski resorts worldwide. It boasts a number of health- and fitness-monitoring powers, and includes features that'll help you on the next ski run, or surfing wave. The battery runs for 16 days in smartwatch mode, and 42 hours in GPS mode. The Garmin Epix lists at $900 and up.

Garmin Epix (Sapphire-White Titanium), $900 and up (reduced from $1,000)

Complement any fitness gift with some top-rated workout wear. Shop our top-rated sneaker and athleisure picks.

These Girlfriend Collective leggings are one of Oprah's Favorite Things 2022. The TV icon loves these "sweat-wicking, high-compression and high-waisted," leggings from size-inclusive brand Girlfriend Collective, made out of recycled plastic bottles.

Available in sizes XS to 6XL.

Girlfriend Collective compression pocket leggings, $70 (reduced from $88)

Reviewers rave about Colorfulkoala's Lululemon Align-lookalike leggings (and they're Essentials bestsellers). The tie-dye option, which comes in six colorways, is currently on sale. These leggings have a seamless waistband with a hidden pocket.

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Theragun Pro is $200 off right now, plus all the Cyber Monday deals you can still get on Peloton, Bowflex and more - CBS News

Holiday gifting can be a thrill when we know weve landed a gift that theyll really love. But it can be a challenge to find that special item, especially for those who dont love the idea of simply getting more stuff.

Gifts that support our whole-body wellness our physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing are gifts that truly keep on giving. And its even better when the gift is sustainable or locally sourced, giving back to the planet and our community, as well.

The bottom line: A well-planned holiday gift can be a thoughtful way to help enhance the health, wellness and balance in the lives of our friends and family and a special way to say we care.

Here are 14 wellness-centered gift ideas to get you started.

The Moka is a stove-top coffee maker, as preferred in Italy.

How about an espresso maker to brew coffee like the Italians? The iconic Moka is a stove-top coffee maker, invented in the 1930s by Italian engineer Alfonso Bialetti (hence the Bialetti Moka, a standard found throughout Italy). Fill the octagonal base with water, add finely ground espresso beans and heat. In addition to creating a magnificent cup of espresso, theres zero waste, and the Moka is designed to last for decades. $40.

The Zojirushi travel mug keeps liquids hot for hours even after hours in the freezer. Available in 12, 16 or 20 ounce brushed stainless steel in a variety of colors, Zojirushis lock system also prevents spills and leaks. Satisfying hot sipping when were on-the-go. $24 and up.

Books for the home chef, baker or mixologist, gift a recipe book paired with ingredients for one of the dishes or drinks. A few of our favorites include "The Ultimate Guide to Keto Baking by Carolyn Ketchum," a brilliant baker well-versed in plant-based sweeteners and gluten-free flours. Also (our books!) "Craft: The Eat Fit Guide to Zero Proof Cocktails" and "The Eat Fit Cookbook" (Mollys note: I dont make any money from the Eat Fit book collection; all proceeds benefit the Ochsner Eat Fit nonprofit community initiative). $22-$35.

Books to help us slow down and prioritize: Currently on my nightstand: "Essentialism" by Greg McKeown and "Stillness is the Key" by Ryan Holiday, two books that serve as inspiration and how-to guides to help us focus more on what really matters. $25-27.

Fine journals from Scriptura

For journaling, Scriptura offers an array of gorgeous handmade leather journals ($60 and up); Lionheart Prints has a variety of whimsical notebook-style journals ($18 and up) that can provide the inspiration to capture thoughts from the day, moments of gratitude, and goals and visions for the future.

Raw Chocolate by Fine & Raw Chocolate is 100% organic chocolate made from unroasted cocoa beans with no soy, dairy or gluten. The ingredients are strikingly simple; the flavors are innovative, ranging from Habanero Salt to Ginger Chocolate to Cashew Butter Chocolate. Available locally at Earthsavers, $9.25.

Peppermint-Biscotti

Triple Chocolate Peppermint Biscotti? Yes, please! Especially the low-carb (and naturally gluten-free) recipe by baking mastermind Carolyn Ketchum (see: "The Ultimate Guide to Keto Baking," above). Added bonus: They freeze well, so can be made well in advance for holiday parties and gifting. Find the recipe along with Carolyns detailed explanations and teaching moments at AllDayIDreamAboutFood.com just type peppermint biscotti in the recipe search feature.

Windowsill herb gardens can work in almost any kitchen size or space. Create your own or gift this mason jar herb kit by Modern Sprout that come equipped with everything youll need to start growing the perfect solution for those with little time and/or green thumb. These vintage-inspired jars use a self-watering system that brings water and nutrients to the herbs roots, so theres no guesswork on how much or how often to water. $24.

Support your local farmers market and inspire culinary creativity with a gift certificate to the local farmers market (or wooden tokens for our local Crescent City Farmers Market).

The Acupressure set by Prosource Fit looks like a small mat and pillow that also happen to be covered with tiny spikes. Dont worry they dont pierce the skin; instead, they provide the relaxation and energizing benefits of acupressure (the mat has more than 8900 pressure points; the pillow has nearly 1800). The mat can be used lying down or sitting up; the pillow can serve as acupressure for the neck or feet. $29.99

TriggerPoint rollers take foam rollers to the next level, helping to release muscle pain and tightness and increase circulation. The dense 3D surface is designed to replicate the feeling of a massage therapists hands, a welcome gift to athlete and non-athletes alike. $35 and up.

Essential oil candles from Aromatherapy Associates

Essential Oil Candles uplift and add balance. With scents ranging from delicate and light to intense and full-bodied, theres an essential oil candle for everyone. Available locally at stores like Home Malone and Earthsavers. $19.50-$70.

Aromatherapy oils can help us relax and unwind. Some energize, and others, like lavender, are backed by science showing that they can help us fall asleep and even reduce our perception of pain.

Gift essential oils along with a diffuser to effectively and effortlessly scent your space. Earthsavers offers the Aromatherapy Associates Atomizer thats elegantly beautiful, cordless and waterless. Oils start around $10; Atomizer is $171.95.

New Orleans Tea Company is a woman-owned tea company with an array organic and fairtrade certified teas. Available through their website and sold locally at Bottom of the Cup, their French Quarter tearoom established by the owners grandparents in the 1920s as one of the first tea rooms in the US.

In addition to the familiar green, black, white and rooibos teas, New Orleans Tea Company has a collection of Wellness Teas, including Jet Lag Herbal Tea, Balance Wellness Tea, and Cleanse and Refresh Herbal Tea. $7.98 for 8 two-cup pyramid tea bags.

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Wellness-centered gifts are a way to show loved ones that we care - NOLA.com