GYM MEMBERSHIP OR HOME GYM: WHICH IS BEST?

With the outbreak of Covid-19, we have been made to turn to our homes to exercise. This has made plenty of gym-goers question whether the gym is better, or whether installing a home gym could be more worthwhile. Each has its own advantages, and depending on what you want from your gym experience, there is the opportunity to create this in the comfort of your own home. If you have been considering investing in a home gym, read on.

Gym Memberships

Gym memberships may not seem too expensive when you factor in the cost per month, but add this up each year and you can see how much you really spend on your membership. Add in the cost of getting to your gym and parking (if you don’t live locally) and you may find that you could save money by installing a home gym. Gyms offer some things that can’t be recreated at home, such as exercise classes and a sauna, so if you can’t let go of these, a gym membership may be the right option for you.

Going to the gym for some can be motivational; being surrounded by others improving their own bodies is a sure-fire way to get your head in the game. More so, you may meet regular friends at the gym who spot for you while doing weights. Others aren’t such a fan of working out in front of others, so a home gym may be the best way to feel comfortable and get the most from each workout. The other disadvantage of going to a gym is the number of people using the same equipment. You may have to wait around to complete your workout routine and if you can only head to the gym in the evening, which is when most people schedule their workouts, then this is something you have to put up with every day.

Home Gyms

A home gym does cost more up-front, but over time you could save a lot of money. If you calculated how much your membership and travel costs were, you can see how much you could be saving each year. If you invest in the best home gym equipment, this can last for years to come, meaning you can see how a home gym may be worth the initial investment. Many people don’t stick to working out when it comes to traveling to and from the gym, but having equipment in your own home could be the motivation you needed. If you feel self-conscious in the gym, you may feel more motivated to work out at home.

Home gyms allow you to exercise in the comfort of your own home, with no worries about parking and waiting for others to finish with the equipment. You can still invite friends to work out with you at home. If you live with another avid gym-goer, investing in a home gym will be even more worthwhile, as you can use the space together and save double on gym memberships. Space can be an issue when considering a home gym, but if you have a spare room or garage that can be converted, all you need to do is make some room for the equipment. Finding a space for your home gym is the perfect time for a clear out.

Which Is Best?

While the initial investment in home gym equipment can be daunting, when you consider how much you could be saving over the years, a home gym may be your best option for a better budget. If you have the space and prefer the solidarity of working out alone, or with your partner or housemate, then a home gym could be your best option. If you are going to invest in a home gym, make sure to check out home gym reviews, so you can be sure you’re paying for the best equipment. For example, there’s USA-HomeGym.com which compares the best home gyms in 2020, with comparisons to guide you in choosing the right equipment for your workouts. Covering everything from product quality, feedback, and warranty coverage, they might help you to find the best equipment for your new home gym.

If you enjoy classes at the gym, the pool or the sauna however, canceling your gym membership may not be worthwhile. If you can afford both, there are plenty of advantages of being able to work out in your own home, and if you only want to use the pool at your local gym, you can just pay for pool access.

All in all, it comes down to how much money you have to spend to re-create what you need for a full-body workout at home, as well as how much space you have to spare. If working out at home sounds like a dream come true, start comparing reviews now to get the home gym of your dreams.

S1. E9. | BUNGALOW SK WITH TRACY WOLFSON

On today's episode of Bungalow SK, we caught up with CBS Sports Broadcaster, Tracy Wolfson who covers the NFL as well as NCAA Basketball games a few months ago right before the NFL's 100th season. You can read the full interview in Athleisure Mag's Sept Issue #45. In this excerpt, she talks about her career, how she prepares when she is interviewing athletes, some of her favorite stories that she has covered and how she takes time for herself when she is not on the road for gameday. 

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

UTR PRO MEN'S MATCH SERIES POWERED BY ORACLE

On May 8th and 9th in West Palm Beach, FL for the UTR Pro Match Series powered by Oracle which was broadcast live on Tennis Channel. This event marks the first live tennis tournament during COVID-19 where the sport can be played locally and safely with 1:1 match play. It’s worth noting that players engaged in “stick fives” were the new high fives, hand sanitizing stations replaced communal water coolers, and players prepped and recovered in individual socially distanced tents on a grassy field. During the matches, winners waved to invisible fans that were not in attendance and they tossed towels to invisible ballkids that were not there as well.

On day 1 of the series, Hubert Hurkacz (UTR 15.35) of Poland got the day started by winning seven consecutive games and defeating former Roland Garros boys’ champion Tommy Paul (UTR 15.31) 4-2 4-0. Big-serving American Reilly Opelka (UTR 15.51) then defeated former world number one junior Miomir Kecmanovic (UTR 15.38) 4-3(4) 4-0, before also defeating his quarantine roommate Paul 3-4(4) 4-1 4-0 to move to 2-0 on the day. Kecmanovic then bounced back with a 4-3(2) 4-1 win over Hurkacz to close out the day’s action.  

The format is a round robin best of 3 Fast 4 sets. This will be the format for the finals and the 3rd/4th place playoff. You can see more videos here.

5.8.2020 | UTR PRO MATCH SERIES MEN’S PLAYER LINEUP

Reilly Opelka | Third-ranked American, ATP #39, UTR 15.51 (#25)  

Miomir Kecmanović | ATP Next Gen Semifinalist, ATP #47, UTR 15.38 (#43)

Hubert Hurkacz | 2019 Winston-Salem Open Champion, ATP #29, UTR 15.35 (#47)

Tommy Paul | Sixth-ranked American, ATP #57, UTR 15.31 (#58)

American Reilly Opelka, World No. 39, captured the title with a 4-3(2), 2-4, 4-2 win in the final. Despite putting on “Quarantine 15”, he served up a big win over Miomir Kecmanovic. “I’m definitely a little sore which is a good feeling. I’m not going to complain about being tired for the first time,” said Opelka in his post match interview. “UTR did a great job advancing and taking advantage of this time [off due to Covid] to put this event on.”

The event involved atypical drone footage and two jib cameras captured the players exchanging “racquet taps” at the end of each match, on-site skeleton crew in PPE, players recovering in their individual open-air tents, and thorough court cleaning between each match.

After the completion of Round Robin play that saw Opelka, Kecmanovic and Hurkacz go 2-1 in their matches, the big-serving American and young Serb advanced to the championship round. Hurkacz defeated Paul 4-1, 0-4, 4-1 in the third place match to move to 3-1 on the weekend, while Opelka’s win in the championship also helped him go 3-1. All matches this weekend count for each player’s Universal Tennis Rating. Opelka’s UTR 15.55 has his UTR world rank about 10 spots higher than his ATP ranking. Player UTRs changed throughout the tournament reflecting their real-time skill level. 

5.9.2020 | UTR PRO MATCH SERIES MEN’S PLAYER LINEUP

Reilly Opelka | Third-ranked American, ATP #39, UTR 15.51 (#25)  

Miomir Kecmanović | ATP Next Gen Semifinalist, ATP #47, UTR 15.38 (#43)

Hubert Hurkacz | 2019 Winston-Salem Open Champion, ATP #29, UTR 15.35 (#47)

Tommy Paul | Sixth-ranked American, ATP #57, UTR 15.31 (#58)

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The Women’s UTR Pro Match Series will be broadcast live on Tennis Channel Friday May 22  - Sunday May 24; 12:00 PM ET.

TUNE IN | Live on Tennis Channel and TC International, and streaming on Facebook and Twitter @MyUTR and @TennisChannel. 

5.22-24.2020 | UTR PRO MATCH SERIES WOMEN’S PLAYER LINEUP

Alison Riske | 4th ranked American, WTA #19, UTR 13.19 (#14)

Amanda Anisimova | 5th ranked American, WTA #28, UTR 13.04 (#33)

Danielle Collins | 8th ranked American, WTA #51, UTR 13.07 (#28)

Ajla Tomljanović | 2nd ranked Australian, WTA #56, UTR 12.85 (#68)

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | BARBA MEN'S GROOMING BOUTIQUE QUARANCUTS

Barba Men's Grooming Boutique Quarancuts' Virtual Hair School emerged as a way to challenge the issue of grooming that have been caused by COVID-19 due to NYC salons being closed to the public. With many being selected as amateur barbers, the need to teach them to do a proper cut was clear to Barba's Owner and Master Stylist, Xavier Cruz. He guides interested "stylists" through the techniques of men's haircuts online via Zoom. Simply DM Barba on Instagram and Quarancuts sessions air simultaneously on IGTV so that all those that are interested can learn how to maintain their hair.

The first amateur stylist to attend Quarancuts was Grammy-winning singer, Tony-winning actor and renowned style icon Billy Porter, who was enlisted to cut his husband Adam Smith's hair.

With 30 years in the industry, Xavier's work has appeared in an array of magazines, styled Broadway shows including Hairspray, The Boy from Oz, The Vagina Monologues and Metamorphosis. He is known for designing the "Coop", a hairstyle that was popularized by CNN's Anderson Cooper and created the army of Eminem lookalikes for the MTV Video Music Awards.

In opening his salon, he continued to evolve the industry by being the first in the nation to offer scalp micropigmentation (SMP), the fastest growing and least invasive answer to baldness.

It's not surprising that as we stay at home to flatten the curve that Barba found a way to maintain grooming needs. "Without a doubt, these are hard times, but not all is lost. Quarancuts puts us closer together. We created this program to not only make us feel great over our appearance, but to also have fun. We will certainly have some good laughs during our sessions." Graduates of this program, will receive a virtual diploma from the Quarancuts Virtual Hair School.

Digital and social content for the Quarancuts Virtual Hair School will be broadcast across social media on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram, as well as on Barba’s website.

BARBA

235 West 19th Street

NY, NY 10011 212.675. 2010

www.barbamgb.com

IG @barbamgb

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Athleisure List | Barba Men’s Grooming Boutique Quarancuts in mag.

SUPERSTITIONS AND RITUALS IN SPORT: WHICH ATHLETES ARE THE MOST SUPERSTITIOUS

Superstitions are part of our lives, and we all know one ore more, maybe even had them once. The reason is that we give so much power to our mind. Thus, we are letting a random belief based on luck or other forces – either irrational, supernatural or unscientific – let us guide to success or protect us from evil happenings.

You may not believe it, but the tarot reading is very popular these days among superstitious people. In fact, for centuries this has been a very popular and powerful mean of fortune-telling. Nowadays, it is practiced widely in the United States and Canada.

Many athletes are also superstitious. Some perform rituals before the game or during it – either in individual or team sports -, and even have lucky objects. There are countless stories, some of them unbelievable, of rituals and superstitions in sports.

Performing a ritual is part of the athlete’s belief that a behavior or action may influence their performance. And there are a lot of athletes who are convinced that these rituals are improving their performance, so they perpetuate them.

There are different rituals. The most commons are related to an object – wearing certain clothes, or consuming certain foods or drinks. The way they perform in the warm-up or the music they listen in the hours before the game or match are also part of the rituals.

Superstitions are a different thing. Some athletes tend to connect good or bad performance to a cause, so superstitions arise after reviewing the facts in the period before the event. This way, they begin to act following certain patterns which they think influence the performance, and recreate those circumstances.

The most important part of the rituals and superstitions for an athlete is the fact that they impact the belief system. In this way it is improved their psychological state during the games in terms of control and confidence. In fact, sports psychology says that, if you believe that doing a specific action will improve the performance, that is likely to happen.

Bottom line, hard training, raw talent, performing under stress, a balanced life and a balanced diet are a huge part of an athlete success, but some big stars need that extra something to get to the success.

Here are the most superstitious athletes:

1.     Turk Wendell

The former American baseball player has many superstitions. He leaps over the baselines when walking to the mound, chews black licorice while pitching, and brushes his teeth between innings. He also wanted to honor his uniform number 99, by asking an offer of $9,999,999.99 from the New York Mets, back in 2000.

2.     Lyoto Machida

The Brazilian MMA fighter says that he drinks his own urine every day, after removing the toxins. He has 26 wins and 9 losses, and claims that his father, a karate master, used the same superstition. The Brazilian thinks that the urine is a natural medicine that cleans the body.

3.     Sergio Goycochea

The former Argentine soccer goalkeeper claimed that his very good record at saving penalties comes from urinating on the field. Goycochea mentioned that nobody complained about his superstition.

4.     Serena Williams

The greatest tennis player in the history of the WTA has many superstitions. Some of them is wearing the same pair of socks while winning in a tournament and wearing the shower sandals to the matches.

5.     Michael Jordan

The greatest of all time in basketball also had a superstition during the games. Michael Jordan wore his University of North Carolina uniform under his Chicago Bulls uniform at every game.

WHAT ALTERNATIVE PAIN REMEDIES CAN YOU USE WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK?

When people think of pain relief, they often think of over-the-counter anti-pain medications, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, there are actually other alternative pain remedies you can use that won’t cost you an arm or a leg. Some of these may even be found within your own fridge and pantry.

Here are some of these alternatives you can use:

1)    Kratom

The Kratom is a Southeast Asian tree from the evergreen family. The tree is a cousin of the coffee plant. Its pain-relieving property is actually found in the tree’s leaves.

This product is said to help alleviate pain and helps with anxiety, panic attacks, and helps suppress appetite as well.

In addition to that, these are the medical conditions that Kratom is used for:

●      Pain

●      High blood pressure

●      Diarrhea

●      Diabetes

●      Depression

●      Cough

Raw Kratom leaves are chewed or brewed as a tea to serve as a euphoriant and to improve physical endurance. Kratom is also taken to improve sexual performance and protect the patient from the effects of opiate withdrawal. The reason why Kratom for pain is effective is because of the chemical mitragynine.

Before buying it, however, it’s always best to research what different companies, such as KratomSpace, have to offer when it comes to products such as this. You should also take into account that Kratom is not meant to be used in tandem with liquor, when you’re pregnant, or nursing. In addition, people with some mental problems are not permitted to take Kratom since it can worsen mental illness symptoms.

2)    Essential Oils

Essential oils are dispensed into the air via oil burners after being heated. Some variants of essential oils, such as sage, lavender, or chamomile can also be applied to your joints, temple, or chest to soothe the pain.

Essential oils are not edible. So, you need to keep these out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.

3)    Magnesium Supplements

Magnesium supplements are known to relieve pain caused by fibromyalgia, migraines, and muscle spasms. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds are some of the foods rich in magnesium.

Other foods that are great sources of magnesium include:

●      Spinach

●      Kale

●      Avocado

●      Banana

●      Black beans

●      Kidney beans

●      Peas

●      Broccoli

●      Artichoke

●      Salmon

●      Tuna

●      Mackerel

●      Brown rice

●      Dark chocolate

Magnesium deficiency can occur:

●      When you drink a lot of liquor.

●      If you have a malabsorption condition.

●      Persistent diarrhea.

●      Celiac disease.

●      Insufficient diet.

If you have muscle pain and tightness, it might be good to try adding more magnesium to your diet.

4)    Capsaicin

This substance comes from chili peppers and is available as a cream or gel. It can be used to treat joint, muscle, and nerve pain.

It works by preventing the chemical P from sending pain signals to your brain. You can use the cream or gel up to four times a day, if necessary. It’s advised to avoid using it too many times as it can burn your skin from long exposure to it.

5)    Ginger Root

You might be familiar with this root that can be found in the vegetable section of your local supermarket. It’s used for muscle pain brought on by running and resistance exercises. It can be used for a minimum of five days.

You can also take this substance to reduce inflammation due to exercise and to help hasten your recovery. Sliced ginger root can be boiled into a tea or added in your dishes as an additional ingredient.

You may find it interesting that turmeric, which is a close relative of ginger root, is also considered a good anti-inflammatory. So, you may try using either ginger or turmeric or even both at the same time when they’re boiled into a tea. If you find the tea a tad strong, you may add some sugar or honey to improve the taste.

6)    Cloves

This is another pain reliever you can find in the vegetable or herbs and seasoning section of your local supermarket. It’s usually used to help with toothaches and possible other pain-related ailments.

Final Takeaway

Not everyone has access to a regular pharmacy every day. Because of this, it may encourage you to try alternative solutions. You might also find that alternative therapies may be less costly for you in the long run. Take note that some alternatives may work for some people, but not for everybody. So you will need to be cautious about using alternative solutions, too.

If you do plan to take an alternative pain remedy, make sure it’s the right one based on where your pain is located. If you’re already taking medication, it’s important to check with your doctor first. This will minimize side effects or complications with mixing medicine.

9PLAYLIST CARL COX

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 9PLAYLIST Carl Cox in mag.

ALL STARS IMPROVE HEALTH AND FITNESS AND LOSE WEIGHT

What an amazing feeling it is when you get on that scale and the needle doesn’t keep going, you’ve lost the pounds and you’re feeling proud of yourself. Looking in the mirror is no longer a scary thought, you can stand there in the confidence of knowing the hard work has paid off.

Deciding to make a change is only overcome with a strong mental desire. Yes, the beginning is going to be tough and for sure you are going to have to push through those moments when the cake seems to be winking at you from behind the café counter.

But if you can make it over that hurdle you can do anything. Why not check out some motivational quotes to get that mental adrenalin flowing and the urge ticking.

Whether you decide to do it alone or drag a friend with you because you could both use a serious health kick, the fact that you are taking that first step is an achievement in itself. You know the old saying, ‘one day, or day one?’

Why people decide to get fit.

Besides the amazing body you’ll be sculpting, your overall physic will start to tighten up. No more waving triceps wings as you lift your arms, or muffin top spilling over your jeans as you jump to pull them on.

If you have kids this is especially beneficial, being able to play with them in the garden without having to stop every 10 minutes while you catch your breath, those moments they will cherish forever. It’s the little things we don’t realize they love the most.

This goes hand in hand with being a good role model for them, they watch everything we say or do even without us noticing, seeing us be healthy and taking care of ourselves will rub off on them for their futures.

Going to a fitness class or gym can be relaxing, you pop on the headphones and crank up the volume and get on with the session. The music may be full blast but you can still be in a world of your own. People often go to the gym to wind down as strange as that may seem.

So many reasons why we decide to turn our life around, read some of them in this blog on being your fittest self and take that first step on the journey to a better you. We only have one life and one body to live it in, let’s make it a good one am I right?

PHOTO CREDIT | Pixabay

How to choose a gym?

When looking for a gym to sign up to, it is all determined by what amenities you’re looking for, the proximity, and the monthly allowance you are willing to spend to be there. Do they offer other services like a sauna or steam room, lockers with keys or a swimming pool in case you decide to change your routine up a bit?

You might like a facility that offers a range of classes, personal trainers to keep you on track or a 6-week course you can try out and get a feel for the gym and overall fitness and well-being. Being around like-minded people can give you that boost to keep going, hearing compliments from others about your results is always lovely to hear, isn’t it?

For a great course with fantastic fitness results, why not visit sites like
https://www.thebootcampeffect.com/bootcamp-all-stars/, you’ll feel good, look good, and who knows you may make some lifelong friends there. It’s a win-win! So, get out your leggings and sign up for the camp that is about to change your life.

3 Benefits of gym classes.

·       Motivation. We all have off days, being in a group is a good way to encourage and be encouraged by others.

·       Social. If you’re a wallflower like me this is a great way to meet people and make friends, expand your social circle.

·       Qualified. By joining a class it’s like a two for one, first, you’re getting fit and secondly, you have the expertise of a qualified fitness guru leading you every step of the way.

Feeling fit is not only about being skinny, it’s more about showing the world you did it. You overcame your hurdle.

CBD INFUSED PRODUCTS YOU CAN USE IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE

CBD, otherwise known as cannabidiol, is obtained from the Cannabis sativa plant. It is quite famous for its various health and wellness benefits ranging from pain alleviation, treating anxiety, depression, promotes healthy-looking skin, and improving heart function. The numerous benefits of CBD have prompted manufacturers to infuse it in products made for everyday use to optimize the health benefits.

Are you looking for ways of incorporating CBD in your everyday routine? Here are some CBD infused products you can use in your daily routine:

1. CBD Cosmetics and Skin Care Products

The cosmetic and beauty industry has widely explored the use of CBD in the manufacture of cosmetic products. Currently, a lot of CBD infused cosmetics products are on the market due to its perceived positive effects on the skin.

Studies show that CBD has natural compounds that reduce aging and the formation of wrinkles on the skin. One of the unique qualities of CBD that has made it ideal for beauty and cosmetic use is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to protect your skin against free radicals that cause wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentations.

CBD skincare products also have unique vitamins (B, E, and K, among others) that can help in giving your skin a smooth and clear glow. Some of the notable skin care products you should consider for your daily use include CBD cooling gel, CBD Body butter, CBD lip gloss, and CBD massage oil.

Most of these cosmetic and skincare products are applied topically on the skin and will produce a maximum effect when used continuously.

2. Edible CDB Products

Another major thing you should know about CBD is that it is edible and can be used to make edible products which you can consume directly without cooking or by adding any heat.

CBD consumables are usually added in food as food finishers to garnish already prepared food. They are popularly used to make salad dressing and are a major ingredient in vegan ice creams.

Some of these products are in the form of candies, brownies, and gummies which can be used to make baked foods directly and sometimes come in various flavors and brands.

3. CBD Butter

There is also a consumable CBD butter product, sometimes called cannabutter and it can be melted into oil if need be. They are also used sometimes to add flavor to meals and thus are perfect additions if you are looking for CBD products to add to your daily routine.

One important thing to note is that most CBD infused products can induce relaxation and also boost appetite, which is the primary reason why CBD infused products are consumed as appetizers.

4. CBD Oil

To incorporate CBD oil into your daily routine, try mixing it with your usual cooking oil or butter. It is advisable to heat your regular oil first, before mixing with CBD oil to avoid overheating it.

Heating CBD oil directly can denature it and make it lose many of its benefits. One unique advantage of using CBD oils is the extra flavor it adds to your meals.

5. CBD Tinctures

CBD tinctures are liquid extracts of CBD, with an alcohol base. Due to its alcohol content, they have more shelf life than any CBD infused products. You can add CBD tinctures to your daily routine, and administer sublingually. CBD tinctures can also be added to drinks such as beverages and coffee to increase their flavor.

They are notably used for antimicrobials actions, serving as a preservative for foods and drinks. Unlike CBD oil, CBD tinctures come in different flavors, such as vanilla and chocolate, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

6. CBD Capsules

CBD capsules are usually made in pill formats and are sold as over the counter drugs in registered pharmacy outlets. It is not illegal in many states, and they are also not psychoactive.

CBD capsules improve the flow of blood in a coordinated manner and are thus ideal for people involved in energy-demanding activities such as athletes, truck drivers, heavyweight lifters, etc.

7. CBD Topical Balms

CBD topical balms like the CBD cooling gel, are packaged in the form of ointments and are explicitly sold for medical purposes. Topical balms are known to work on surfaces that are inflamed, and it is generally used by athletes who are interested in improving their performance or people who are involved in physically demanding activities.

You can decide to incorporate topical balms into your daily routine if you do a lot of physically demanding activities. Alternatively, you can use it periodically to relieve and heal injuries and inflammations. Apply on the affected area and wait for the immediate soothing effect.

8. CBD Coffee

Breakfast time is a religious routine in most homes, and one of the most popular accompaniments for breakfast is coffee. CBD infused coffee is an excellent replacement for your regular coffee.

Unlike regular coffee, CBD infused coffee has the added advantage of containing several health benefits. It is nothing like the standard caffeine dose, with CBD infused coffee, you will feel more sharp-minded, yet calm.

Conclusion

There are many CBD infused products available in stores. They range from beauty products to wellness and edible products. Because they are non-psychoactive, they are products you can quickly adopt as part of your daily routine. Follow the guide and tips above to maximize the health benefits of CBD infused products fully.

S2. E2. | #TRIBEGOALS WITH WWE +E! TOTAL DIVAS DARIA BERENATO/SONYA DEVILLE

On today’s episode of #TRIBEGOALS we talk with our latest cover girl of Athleisure Mag, Daria Berenato! This WWE Superstar wrestles under the name of Sonya Deville. She started as an MMA fighter and transitioned into the WWE where we see her battle it out in the ring at SmackDown as well as being in the cast of E! Total Divas! As the first lesbian WWE Superstar, she uses her platform as an activist for the LGBTQ community, supporting those that are looking to break barriers and of course continuing to expand her empire in fashion, acting and more. We also spoke about the much talked about fallout between her and Mandy Rose as well as her anticipated match on WWE SmackDown on May 8th.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

IN OUR BAG | FOR AN AT HOME SELFCARE DATE

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see In Our Bag | For an at Home Selfcare Date in mag.

HOW TO DRESS FOR KEEPING A RUNNERS PACE

Read the April issue of Athleisure Mag and see How to Dress For Keeping a Runner’s Pace in mag.

STYLE FILES | SS20

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Style Files | SS20 in mag.

WHY HAVING THE RIGHT CLUTCH BAG TO GO WITH YOUR DRESS IS VERY IMPORTANT

Fashion can sometimes be unfairly seen as a trivial affair. Whilst it may be superficial in that it is what sits on the outside, the power of the right outfit can change a mood, an encounter or even the way you feel about an event. What’s inside should always matter, but sometimes, if the outside doesn’t properly reflect you, then the inside might not come out to shine in the right ways. 

Choosing an outfit is difficult enough in itself and what can add to the challenge is selecting the right accessories. Accessories have the tendency to make or break a look, so it’s essential to get them right. Bags, jewellery, shoes, headwear, sunglasses, jackets – all of these play a part in your appearance overall, so need to work together. 

When you start looking into the categories, you’ll see there are so many types too. When browsing you’ll find handbags, crossbody bags, rucksacks and clutch bags for sale, so how do you choose? In the past, clutch bags were mostly glitzy, dainty affairs reserved for evening use only. Nowadays they can be used across a whole host of functions. We’ve put together these reasons why having the right clutch bag to go with your dress is very important. Read on the following to find out what they are...

Carrying your essentials

The most obvious reason for having any kind of bag is to carry the things you need for where you’re going. But functional doesn’t have to mean frumpy, and now you can choose different styles and sizes to house the things you need – phones can sometimes fill a smaller one! Make sure you get one which will suit your needs aesthetically but functionally too. 

Adding an extra dimension to your outfit 

Bags do get noticed, whether it be as a standalone item or as part of your overall look, so choosing one to ‘go’ is imperative. That doesn’t have to mean it matches perfectly; in fact, it could work in direct contrast to add an extra dimension to your outfit, which will instantly elevate it beyond the norm.

Talking point with people

We’ve already said that bags do get noticed and if you get a real statement piece, it will attract others to comment. This could act as an ice breaker to talk to new people, could give you a boost as random strangers compliment you. It could mean that your friends ask where you shop, so they get equally impressive items that upgrade their outfits too. 

A barrier for under-confidence 

Depending on your personality type or even the event you are attending, confidence could be an issue. If this is the case, then a bag can work as a bit of a barrier against the world. Holding it in front of you can project an image of ‘do not disturb’ thus protecting you from intrusion. It can also provide a distraction for you to look through if you are left alone for any period of time. It can be a great tool. 

All in all, the right clutch can make or break your outfit, but it has many more uses than just that. Choose the right one wisely, and you won’t regret it! 

S1. E8. | BUNGALOW SK WITH MIA KANG

We've been fans of Mia Kang for awhile from being in Sports Illustrated to her platform of body positivity. In addition, if you have yet to catch her hosting on BRAVO's Spy Games, we suggest that you catch it On Demand. On today's episode of Bungalow SK, we had the opportunity to literally spar with her a few months ago at the Church Street Boxing Gym in Soho. We talked about the modeling industry, the importance of body awareness in terms of sample sizes, plus sizes and straight sizes, being a Muay Thai fighter and her beauty musts after we trained with her at the gym.

WE SALUTE OUR HEALTHCARE WORKERS ON THE FRONTLINES

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see We Salute Our Healthcare Workers on the Frontlines in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | #52 APR 2020

This month’s cover and back cover is Daria Berenato WWE Superstar and E! Total Divas’ Sonya Deville. Our cover shoot editorial – From the Ring to the World talks with the first lesbian WWE Superstar, we talk about how she is an activist for the LGBTQ community, how she uses her platform for mental health awareness as well as extending her empire into fashion and acting. We will also have this interview as an upcoming podcast for #TRIBEGOALS. In our feature, Something You Should Know, we chat with Bryant Johnson fitness trainer to Hon. Ruth Bader Ginsburg who talks about how he got into the industry, how we can maintain our workouts as well as the RBG Workout. This month, we chatted with Maria Menounos about the upcoming Beverly Hills Dog Show presented by Purina. She shares what she loves about this event, how covering this red carpet is different than those that she does during Awards Season and more. In this month’s The Art of the Snack, we head to the west coast and talk with Tabu Shabu about signature dishes and sake as well as how they are offering meal kits through their pickup and delivery options.

As usual, we have our monthly roundups including our 9LIST (Athleisure Mag’s picks that we’re loving this month in style, beauty and fitness) featured roundups. This month’s 9LIST STORI3S (picks supplied by celebrities) gives us insight into Celebrity Fitness Expert and entrepreneur, Emily Skye. This month’s 9PLAYLIST includes EDM DJ Carl Cox who shares his favorite songs with us. As always, you can enjoy Athleisure List (Adidas Runtastic and Barba Men’s Grooming Boutique Quarancuts), The Pick Me Up, Bingely Books, Bingely Streaming, Style Files, We Salute Our Healthcare Workers On the Frontlines, Athleisure Beauty, How to Dress, In Our Bag, #TRIBEGOALS and Charcoal Beauty. 

Read the April Issue here.

HOW YOU CAN USE WHEY PROTEIN IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

Many athletes, bodybuilders, and gym-goers in countries such as Australia take whey protein as supplements. Some say that a whey protein supplement aids in weight loss and improving overall health. You can read more about its benefits when you click here.

Along with exercises, diet, and lifestyle change, most people found out that these kinds of supplements can speed up their goals of reaching the body shape that they want.

People who regularly go to the gym or fitness enthusiasts drink protein shakes before or after workouts. Some say that they want to build muscles and make sure that they can withstand rigorous exercises and shakes that are rich in whey can help them achieve these goals.

What is Whey Protein Anyway?

Whey is a by-product liquid when one makes cheese. When the milk has already been strained and curdled, casein is produced. Most hard types of cheeses such as Swiss cheese or cheddar produce sweet whey. But sour varieties are created when one makes strained yogurt, cottage cheese, and other types of acidic dairy products.

Since the protein is produced from the isolated by-product of cheese production. As a result, it contains lactose, lactalbumin, and lipid content that are also present in milk. The process of making the supplement can include during or removing lactose. Know more about lactose here: https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=25973. Most are sold as dietary supplements. They can be in a beverage or powdered form. Most use whey proteins as thickeners so that they can increase the textures of their food.

Uses of Whey Supplements

Many people use whey supplements to grow lean muscles and increase mass. Some studies show that it can help lose fats and retain muscles at the same time. When one exercise, the proteins are broken down into amino acids. It undergoes oxidizing through the mitochondria in the cells. This process produces energy.

When you take supplements that are rich in protein, you will enhance your body’s recovery. The body increases amino acids, and the synthesis of the system will be significantly enhanced. Others use these supplements because they want to increase strength, speed up muscle recovery, improve endurance and reduce fats.

How to Include Whey Protein in Everyday Life

·       Replacement for Meals – You can add whey powder in your daily smoothies during post-workout meals.

·       Snacks – You can add a dash of milk and add water for a filling snack.

·       Food Before Eating Out – The powder can help satiate you, which prevents overeating and overindulging.

·       Post-Workout Drinks – Just add water to the powder, and you’re good to go.

Replacement for Meals

Lots of people are at a rush in the mornings to go to work. If this is the case with you, you can avoid missing breakfast which is an essential meal by drinking the best whey protein powder in Australia. Some of the smoothies can be whipped up for breakfast. You can mix in blends of avocados, mangos, and other fruits that are nutritious and delicious. You can fuel up with nutritious and dense snacks throughout the day.

You might want to start watching your macronutrient goals such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins when you create your mix. Some of the suggestions are the following, but you can get creative and make yours!

Breakfast Smoothie Suggestions – a cup of milk, a single scoop of whey protein that has vanilla flavour, baby spinach leaves, a handful of ice, and one-third cup of raspberries. Mix them all in a blender, and you are good to go.

Quicker Options – If you have shakers, add a cup of water, a dash of milk, chocolate-flavoured whey, a scoop of oats, and a half teaspoon of peanut butter. Shake them all up, and you can have low-carb snacks on the go.

Replacement for Snacks

Some supplements and shakes will make you feel full throughout the day. Therefore, you will not likely eat more throughout the day. For a lot of people, they might find it hard to avoid high-processed sugary snacks. Therefore, protein shakes are convenient for them since these can help them in their cravings. Similarly, if you are someone who might turn into overindulging in the wrong kinds of food, then a protein shake can make you resist temptation easier.

Aids in Weight Loss

Studies that were published in Nutrition & Metabolism and other journals show that whey protein aids in losing weight. They can help you lose more fat, especially around the midsection. Those who often take supplements after workouts showed preservation of muscles, leaner bodies, and a lower amount of fats.

Whey protein is the answer when you want a fit body and enhanced muscles. You can start to look for supplements and powders that can aid you in your fitness and exercise routines. There are a variety of flavours that you can choose from so you can enjoy your shakes or smoothies. Weight loss should not always be associated with pain. You can also get pleasure in drinking yummy sweet drinks while losing fats at the same time with the help of whey protein supplements.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING THE BEST RECURVE BOWS

If you are planning to buy the best recurve bow, then you probably already know that not all bows are the same. A bow might be looking good to the eye or advertised to be the great but in reality, it just isn’t good enough. To be able to pick the best recurve bow there are certain things that you must consider. Here are some of the factors worth taking into account when looking for best recurve bows.

• Task at hand

The first thing that you should have in mind is what you intend to do with the bow. Do you intend to use it for hunting or just for recreational target practice? For recreational purposes, any bow will do. Hunting, on the other hand, requires that the bow be strong and as efficient as possible. It should be able to operate fast while also maintaining high accuracy over a long distance. The standard recommended draw weight for a hunting bow is 35lbs. This is suitable for a small and medium-sized game such as antelope. For large-sized animals, you’ll need a bow with greater draw-weight. Your physique should also determine the draw weight that you choose. Go for what you can handle. You need to check the properties of the bow and decide whether they are in line with the job you need the bow for.

• Draw span

The accuracy of the recurve bow is determined by its draw-length. The larger the length the more accurate the bow will be. You should pick a recurve bow with a draw-length that is at least twice your draw span.

• The flexibility of the bow

Some recurve bows are fixed while some have adjustable parts hence can be considered to be more flexible than the latter. For instance, a take-down bow allows the user to adjust the draw weight as suitable. Instead of buying a new bow all you have to do is buy the set of parts with the draw length that you desire and replace the current parts. Flexibility does not only allow for an upgrade but also enables isolation and repair of any damaged parts. It comes in handy during storage and transportation too as you can dismantle the bow, transport it and then assemble it at the destination.

• Your style

Go for the type of bow that best suits your style. If you want something sleek yet durable you can choose a wooden bow made of strong wood such as mahogany. If you prefer the modern type of bows you can buy a metallic bow even a carbon bow. While choosing from the wide variety available you should bear in mind that they all have their advantages and shortcomings. For example, the wooden ones are lighter compared to the ones made of aluminum hence they will need additional material for balance. The modern kinds of bows is made using advanced technologies hence some have the capability of supporting extra accessory such as the viewing scope.

• The string

This is an essential part of the bow and will determine the degree of accuracy. A thin string will be fast and provide more accuracy but with a little impact. Thick string, on the other hand, will make the bow slow but with a huge impact on the target. For hunting a small animal like a rabbit which is swift it is recommended that you choose a recurve bow with a thin string. For larger animals like elk and deer you should go for a thicker string that can provide bone penetration. The strings also come in different colors, some of which reflect light so if you intend to go hunting in camouflage choose the dull colors.

• Finger tab

The finger tab should be strong for durability purposes and also comfortable to provide a fluid shooting experience. Consider going for one with a finger divider as this is comfortable and provides a firm grip.

PHOTO CREDIT | Pixabay

• Arrow

A recurve bow without an arrow is useless, whether it be for hunting or target practice. You need strong arrows that will not break on hitting the target. You can buy a mixture of light and heavy arrows to cater to the different shooting conditions that you will experience or buy ones that strike a fine balance between the two. Light arrows are fast but can deviate from the course when there are strong winds. Also, consider going for readily available arrows that can be replaced when the need arises.

• Additional equipment

You might want to acquire other accessories such as stabilizers, bow stand, arrow puller and a quiver for your arrows. Do not invest heavily on this additional equipment if it’s your first time. You might end up buying the wrong stuff. This might also mean spending money on stuff you don’t need. Before going for extra things, at least make sure to get some advice from someone with more experience.

• Price

It goes without saying that you should opt for what you can afford. Most times quality and price do go hand in hand. This is not always the case though as some recurve bows are highly priced but in action they are not up to the task. You have to keenly inspect the product before you purchase it and consider its attributes. If you are a beginner go for the cheaper bows and parts so that in case of any damage or malfunction you can easily replace them. Make sure the quality is worth the price. Click here to find out more information and tips.

PHOTO CREDIT | Pixabay

Conclusion

For whatever reason, you decide to get a bow you need the right one to get the job done right. Acquiring the best recurve bow can be a challenging task at times. You need to have knowledge about bows prior to buying one. Expert advice from experienced users can also come in handy at these times. Do not make any assumptions and always take your time while deciding which one to choose. Consider the factors above and you’ll make the right decision.

8 WATER SPORTS YOU SHOULD TRY IN THE SUMMER

Nothing brings back the feeling of childhood like the relief of jumping into the ocean, lake, or pool with the shining summer sun overhead. It’s no wonder why summer has been synonymous to water for many people.

Some of the best activities that people can enjoy during the summer are water sports. There’s never a dull moment with water sports.  The cool wind that blows your hair, the deep blue water, and the thrill of competition, racing, and adventure all make everything incredibly fun. Surely, you’ll experience an adrenaline rush and actually enjoy your time to the core.

Here are the top eight must-try water sports that you should try in the summer:

1. Kitesurfing

Over the last few years, kitesurfing has become increasingly popular, with more and more water enthusiasts turning their attention to this specific water sport. It’s no wonder why you can now find kitesurfing lessons almost everywhere nowadays. It’s the perfect combination of surfing and wakeboarding. A lot of people actually consider it surfing’s next level.

This sport is perfect for those who are seeking a unique kind of thrill and are ready to bring a ton of exciting memories from their summer vacation as they go back to their homes. Kitesurfing is ideal during a windy summer day, enabling you to speed over waves.

2. Kayaking

If you’re living by the beach, go for some coastline kayaking adventure. You can also visit your nearest marina and rent a few there for the day. The good thing about kayaking is that it’s actually a great workout for your core and upper body, on top of being a relaxing way of spending time on the water. Please take note, however, that kayaking is going to expose you to a lot of sunlight, so be sure to bring and wear sunblock. You know how easy it is to lose track of your time when you’re already in the water, right?

3. Paddle Boarding

Many celebrities have started to embrace paddleboarding because it’s actually good for the posture and core. It’s also a fun way of showing your beach body off. Stand up paddleboarding is perfect for those who prefer working out on but not getting in the water. If your next summer or holiday destination is by a beach or a lagoon and you want to exercise, paddleboarding is, no doubt, a water sport you should try.

4. Swimming

Swimming keeps the body fit and active, not to mention the fact that it definitely feels like heaven to dive inside the water during a hot summer day. Swimming, indeed, is one of the most refreshing water sports out there. Doing it at least twice a week or every day as part of your workout routine helps to revive your whole body.

5. Jet Skiing

One of the most action-packed water sports you can try is jet skiing. The speed you can reach as you travel through the water can definitely give you an adrenaline rush. Water enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike find this water sport very attractive. While it’s always advisable to wear a life jacket when jet skiing as, of course, a precaution, being a professional swimmer isn’t required to enjoy it. This means that anyone can experience this kind of fun!

6. Fly Fishing

All you need is to borrow or rent the right gear, such as a weighted line, a fly rod, as well as wading boots, and you can already try fly fishing. If you’ve been a traditional fishing enthusiast for a while now, it’s maybe time to level up your game or at least experience some kind of a spin from the usual. Fly fishing can give you just that. Make sure, however, that you’re wearing polarized shades when you’re already there in the water. These will help you catch less seaweed and more fish by allowing you to see through the water’s surface more clearly.

7. Snorkeling

The most relaxing of all water sports is snorkeling. It’s also the one that allows you to spend the most time under the water. All you need to do to see the beautiful underwater world is to strap on fins, a pair of goggles, and a snorkel tube so that you can easily breathe. Make sure to pick a location where there’s vibrant reef or fish. Choose a spot in the ocean that’s calm for you to maximize the fun of discovering the color-shimmering environment under the sea.

8. Wakeboarding

If it’s an extreme water sport that you want, then, you should try wakeboarding. This water sport is truly more intense compared to the others mentioned above. With wakeboarding, you won’t have to rely on the waves for moving; a speedboat will actually tow you along the water!  Can you imagine how fun that is?  You can play around the water using your wakeboard while holding onto the line of the speedboat as it tows you at high speed.

The good thing about wakeboards is that they combine fins and weights so that riders can maneuver them easily over the water. Wakeboarding also doesn’t require a lot of experience as it’s surprisingly easy to run with it.

Conclusion

You can’t possibly hike or trek during the summer, so adventurous travelers like you will really have to find and try new things. Luckily for you, there are various water sports you can choose from, and all of them bring extraordinary fun!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.