7 BENEFITS OF WEIGHTED BLANKETS & THE DIFFERENT ISSUES THEY CAN HELP YOU WITH

PHOTO CREDIT | Pixabay

So, you've probably heard of weighted blankets by now, but you're still sitting on the fence pondering what they are, if they really work, and if they are what you actually need? Well, you are not alone. Weighted blankets have become quite popular over the last few years, many therapists and therapy clinics even recommend them for their patients. Now, with these blankets readily available outside clinical settings, it's understandable that consumers would want to know what these blankets are and their actual benefits.

What Is A Weighted Blanket?

From the look of them, weighted blankets are no different from your typical duvet. They are made from linen, cotton, and other materials that you would typically find in other bed covers and blankets. However, weighted blankets are filled with special material which makes them heavy and provide a gentle but firm pressure, which studies show has a variety of health benefits. Weighted blankets create DTP (Deep Touch Pressure) or DPS (Deep Pressure Simulation) to calm the nervous system and improve relaxation.  

You'll find that there are weighted blankets for both kids and adults, they are based on how heavy the weighted blanket is, which should be about 7% to 12% of your body weight.  

The Benefits Of Weighted Blankets

Comfy mattress? Check. Soft pillow? Check. Temperature-regulating bed sheets? Check. Supportive bed frame? Quadruple check. It's easy to think that your bed is packed with the best sleep technology, but what about the blanket? One of the essential pieces of the sleep puzzle is your blanket. Pick the wrong one, and you'll end up trading more than 50 winks for restless tossing.

The blanket you choose can be incredibly valuable. After all, it impacts one of the most crucial things in one's life – a person's sleep, the quantity, and quality of which has a significant impact on your health and wellness.

Here's how you can benefit from weighted blankets:

1. Helps Alleviate Restless Leg Syndrome

If you've ever experienced Restless Leg Syndrome, also called Willis-Ekbom Disease, you know that it can have devastating effects on your sleep pattern. Restless leg syndrome causes tingling and what can be described as a "creeping sensation" that makes it very uncomfortable for those with the condition to sleep. RLS symptoms are worse when you go to bed, partially due to the body's overactive nervous system.

While some find comfort in using compression socks, many patients have said that these socks are extremely tight and often end up worsening the symptoms. On the other hand, weighted blankets offer relief because they use DTP, which helps calm the nervous system.

2. Eases Anxiety Induced Insomnia

Until you've stayed up until four o'clock in the morning for years, it's easy to dismiss a lack of sleep as something that needs a quick fix. If you're one of those people who find themselves with racing thoughts even after going to bed, then you understand that anxiety can cause not only insomnia but also affect your quality of sleep. Luckily, studies have shown that the use of weighted blankets helps inhibit the production of Cortisol (stress-inducing hormone) and instead stimulates the production of dopamine (the feel-good hormone), which means hours of blissful Z’s.   

3. Reduces Stress

Stress can take a toll on your mental health, as well as your physical and emotional state. Weighted blankets help stimulate serotonin production thanks to the gentle pressure. This can help reduce stress and combat depression, which makes you feel better overall.

4. Improves Focus For ADHD Patients

Studies have shown that both adults and children with ADHD find that they can focus better when using weighted blankets. Attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome (ADHD) can cause restless sleep. Using weighted blankets with deep pressure therapy (DPT) helps create a calming and soothing effect, which helps improve focus in ADHD patients.

5. Helps With Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory issues such as autism spectrum disorder are thought to be the result of a delay in brain signals causing anxiety attacks. Sensory disorders can get in the way of your life and can cause both behavioral and emotional turmoil. Using weighted blankets can help create a calming effect and ease this kind of anxiety.

6. Alleviates OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a condition where the patient suffers from obsessive thoughts and exhibits obsessive mannerisms. People with OCD tend to have difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep. Weighted blankets boost the production of melatonin and serotonin, both of which make it easier for you to relax, fall asleep, and have a restful sleep.

7. They Feel Like A Nice Hug!

Babies are not the only ones who respond better to hugs; even adults love hugs. This is because the body responds to contact made from a hug and releases oxytocin, which helps create a feeling of relaxation and also reduces an individual's blood pressure. Weighted blankets mimic a warm and cozy hug.

So what are you waiting for? Start enjoying quality sleep with the gentle pressure of a quality weighted blanket today!

BINGELY BOOKS

THE NEW HUSBAND

St. Martin's Press

D.J. Palmer

When is someone being perfect a problem? When Simon Fitch knows all of Nina Garrity's favorite things, when he is loved by her son, anticipates her every need and gives her security to know that he wouldn't betray her like her first husband - what could she possibly want? Interestingly enough, when her first husband went missing, she found out that he was leading a double life. He would eventually disappear in a presumed drowning and she lost the opportunity to confront him about what he did to her.

A year and a half later, she found love with Simon, a fellow widower who is grieving the death of his first wife. Together, they love one another and Nina's son is happy to be embraced by his step father in a way that his father never did. His friends don't see this man as loving, but as someone who is obsessed.

Nina's daughter doesn't feel the same way that her son does. As Nina wants to believe that her life is not only on track, but that she is living her best life - she realizes that the greatest danger to her and her kids are the lies that we tell ourselves.

---

IF I HAD YOUR FACE

Ballantine Books

Frances Cha

We meet Kyuri who works at an exclusive underground bar where she entertains businessmen while they drink. Although she believes that she has a clear-eyed approach to going about her life, an impulsive mistake threatens her livelihood.

Her roommate, Miho won a scholarship to study art in New York; however, she has returned to Korea after college. She becomes involved in a relationship with an heir to the nation's biggest conglomerates.

In the same building, Ara is a hairdresser who is obsessed with a K-Pop star and has a best friend who is saving up for an extreme plastic surgery that she hopes will change her life.

Finally, Wonna is also in the building as her and her husband try to conceive a child without knowing how they can afford it. All of their stories converge as they support one another.

---

PRETTY THINGS

Random House LLC

Janelle Brown

We meet two women. One is a con artist who attempted to live her life in a way to embrace a career; however, when she couldn't make that goal, she found herself going back to the life that her mom taught her. When her mom became sick, she decided to do anything - even if it meant pulling her biggest scam to save her.

The second is an heiress who wants to make an impact on the world; however, she becomes an Instagram influencer who escapes to the family mansion.

Their worlds collide in Lake Tahoe as they are involved in a game of desire, duplicity and revenge.

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Bingely Books in mag.

THE ART OF THE SNACK

This month's The Art of the Snack takes us to the west coast to a restaurant group that we enjoy seeing their meals on Instagram. Like many restaurants during this time as we stay at home, they continue to offer pickup and delivery to feed their communities, first responders, health care workers and more. We chatted with Tabu Shabu's Michelle Tangie, Director of Brand and Training to find out how his restaurants continue to bring savory meals as well as a great selection of sakes to get us through this time as we stay focused on flattening the curve.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your culinary background and how you came up with the idea of Tabu Shabu?

MICHELLE TANGIE: Our founder and CEO Jeff, who was already a restaurant operator, felt that his East Costa Mesa neighbourhood was lacking something that he had grown up eating: Japanese style hot pot, with fresh vegetables, and top-quality cuts of beef and fresh seafood. This was something that he had enjoyed throughout his childhood and yet nothing like this existed in the mainstream dining segment. He decided to take over a small space with childhood friends Christian Fernandez, a Long Beach Firefighter, and Sol An, a Los Angeles based commercial developer, to create Tabu Shabu.

AM: What can guests expect when they come to dine at Tabu Shabu?

MT: Our key company mission statement has always been focused on the highest level of guest satisfaction. Since day one this has always been our top priority and our guests and community can feel that based on the authentic and interactive environment they’ll receive while dining. We genuinely care and because of this, they’ll most often care right back.

AM: When creating this menu, can you tell us about where the inspiration for your dishes came from?

MT: The focus from day one of Jeff and his partners was procuring homemade sauces with fresh ingredients and carefully selected meats and seafood as well as locally sourced produce. From these high-quality ingredients and sauces/ broths consistently made with love consumers can taste the distinct difference in quality and it is a big reason for how and why Tabu Shabu became a booming success.

AM: What are 3 signature dishes that you suggest?

MT: One of the best parts about Tabu Shabu is that every time you cook it and eat it something can always be different depending on how you flavour your broth and sauces or how you tailor your veggie plate. With that being said, our top sellers are definitely our buttery WAGYU Shortrib Kobe Beef Entree with Miso Broth, our famous housemade Porridge, andvour super addictive Garlic Edamame as an appetizer.

AM: What are 3 cocktails that you suggest?

MT: We don’t have a full bar but we do have an excellent sake selection and our staff top recommendations are definitely our Unfiltered Sayuri Nigori, Filtered Hakatsuru Gingo & Filtered Sho Chiku Bai Ginjo.

AM: Right now, we’re in a situation where the community is coming together as we navigate staying indoors and although we are unable to come into your restaurant to dine, you offer takeout/delivery – can you tell us about how people can still get their meals with you and what times they can do so?

MT: We have tried to make our Tabu ToGo options as simple and streamlined as possible for easy cravings satisfaction. We are currently providing our Take Out menu every day from 4pm - 8pm. Customers can either order through the *order online* link on our website: www.tabushabu.com, order online through ChowNow or call us themselves. Through ChowNow they can opt for curbside pickup or delivery.

AM: From your Tabu2Go Menu, tell us about the Take Out Meal Kits as we think it’s a great way for people to enjoy Tabu Shabu while also being able to cook together!

MT: While we do offer pre-cooked soups on our ToGo menu and porridge-our Take Out Meal Kits are two or four person-sized Tabu entrees that are deconstructed for families to cook together whether that be with an electric hot pot or stovetop. We include all the fixings with cooking instructions for any first timers Tabu-ers. Our team has always strongly believed in the memories and sense of togetherness that comes from enjoying a meal with your loved ones. As of now, there are many options to choose from for ToGo but with ours, you can make your family meal or date night an extra special experience through cooking it together or trying something new and interactive with the added bonus of how healthy it is!

IG @TabuShabu

PHOTOS COURTESY | Tabu Shabu + David Chiem (@DavidTheFoodie)

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Art of the Snack in mag.

S1. E10. | BUNGALOW SK WITH EMILY TYRA

On today's episode of Bungalow SK, we talk with one of our cover girls from our 2nd issue back in 2016, Emily Tyra who was our favorite actress on STARZ's Flesh & Bone as well as on CBS' Code Black. We talked about how she got into entertainment, her ability to sing, dance and act as well as her movie Harpoon that was on the festival circuit last year. We also talked about her ceramic brand, Rarebird.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | ADIDAS RUNTASTIC

As we have been staying at home and we continue to include new routines into our workout, we can always think of ways to change it up. We started using Adidas Runtastic which includes a number of modalities from running, cardio, yoga and more. This app (available for Apple and Android) also allows you to create a training plan that works for you, challenge yourself as well as to track your efforts. We like that we can connect it to our Google Fit which connects to our Fitbit so that we can keep our stats in one place.

As you focus on getting stronger, you are able to create a workout that fits your schedule. Intensify and diversify your workout by joining challenges, compare your activity to others as a way to positively challenge yourself to the next level. We love that we're able to record our activity while sharing with others within the global community. This workout lets you work from home or in other approved social distanced environments.

We also enjoy checking out their blog for an array of tips that include cardio, strength, nutrition, daily habits, success stories and information that you may want to know about the culture of Runtastic.

As you continue to use the app, you will find that by completing challenges and rewards, that you will receive incentives for all of your hard work. We also suggest that for those that are fan of Adidas to set up an account for their Creator's Club. As you purchase your favorite gear, you will move through various levels of complimentary access to this program for 3 months to test it out. If you enjoy the benefits, we're sure that you'll continue to find the methods that work best for you.

ADIDAS RUNTASTIC

www.runtastic.com

IG @adidasruntastic

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Athleisure List | Adidas Runtastic in mag.

HOW TO STAY ON TOP OF SPORTS EVEN WHEN THE ACTION HAS FINISHED

From the weekend soccer, football and basketball fixtures to the elite-level tennis and golf tournaments that are held most weeks of the year, sports fans are spoilt for choice when it comes to catching the latest action on their TV or mobile devices.

Not only can you watch the leading stars strut their stuff and make the rest of us feel somewhat diminished in our amateurish attempts to match them, but there are complementary ways in which we can elevate our enjoyment with betting, fantasy sports and so on.

But what happens when the final whistle is blown, or the winning shot is made?

There is a gap in our hearts and minds, and we know we will have to wait for the next event or the next round of games before our appetite is sated once more.

So, in this article, we thought we’d compile a list of ways in which you can scratch the sporting itch from the comfort of your own home – there’s no need to work up a sweat (if you don’t want to!).

Betting Bonanza

Even when the sporting event has finished and your bets have been settled, there are other ways you can attempt to profit from a betting perspective.

The first is with virtual sports. Many sportsbooks offer this option now, and in essence this is a console-style game powered by an intelligent algorithm, and you can wager on a number of different markets – many of which you may already be familiar with.

As far as the available sports are concerned, there’s soccer, horse racing, tennis, cycling and more.

PHOTO CREDIT | Pixabay

'Frankie Dettori' by MatthewMayer (CC BY-SA 3.0)

On a similar note, you can even try your hand at casino-based sports games. You may be aware of Frankie Dettori, the legendary horse racing jockey, who has lent his name to a roulette game.

It would be fair to say that casino roulette from Paddy Power is a varied affair, and you can even enjoy a soccer influenced title that adds a unique twist to the classic casino table game.

Video Star

Arguably, there has ever been a better time for console gamers and particularly those who enjoy their sports.

From FIFA and Madden to NBA 2K and NHL, the sporting spectrum is supremely represented on the small screen by the leading video game developers.

If you don’t currently own a console, this is an outstanding opportunity to get started. The reason for that is simple – we are about to enter the ‘next generation’ phase of gaming.

So, you can splash the cash on the PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X to ensure you are bang up to date – both are scheduled for release late in 2020, or you can land the older generation of consoles at some of the cheapest prices they have ever been available for.

ICYMI: PS5's SSD is "far ahead" of those found in high-end PCs, according to Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney. https://t.co/UeI5BOOMMx pic.twitter.com/2GV3bHzK8B

— IGN (@IGN) May 17, 2020

Fantasy World

Even when we are days away from the next set of games, those embroiled in fantasy leagues will be tinkering away at their rosters in the hope of downing their friends or work colleagues.

If you’re not involved in a fantasy competition, where have you been? More than 60 million people have a team of some kind, typically in football or baseball, and these days you can make your knowledge count in paid fantasy leagues using stats sites such as ESPN to complete your lineups. 

These are just three options to help you pass the time while between games - we're sure the time will fly by!

9LIST

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST in mag.

PREWORKOUT ROUTINES YOU SHOULD FOLLOW TO GET THE MOST OUR OF YOUR TRAINING SESSIONS

Regardless of your age, staying fit and healthy is extremely important. This means getting the most out of purposeful training, to keep your mind and body active and strong. While a structured exercise can be useful for losing weight and trimming your body, you should never make a mistake of trying to do too much without getting a pre-workout session.

Primarily, a pre-workout refers to an exercise one has to perform before they proceed to any strenuous physical activity. It can help prepare your muscles to be stretched or your body to be primed before a total workout.

If you’re looking to maximize your training, below are the pre-workout routines you should follow from the get-go:

1. Get Enough Sleep The Night Before Your Training Sessions

Similar to other aspects of your life, getting enough sleep is also essential when doing a workout. When you have a good sleep at night, you’re able to provide your body and brain enough energy once you wake up. In other words, sleep can be regarded as a form of recovery. Therefore, if you’re planning a total workout the next day, make sure you’ve adequately slept. If you have enough sleep, you have high energy and good focus during your workout. When this happens, you might be able to maximize your training and reap the benefits of your fitness program.

2. Eat Healthy Foods Before The Workout

 Another pre-workout routine that you should follow is eating up for energy. Before the workout properly fuel your body with enough energy by eating meals full of carbohydrates and protein. These can include fruits such as apples, bananas, and oranges, which are complex carbohydrates good for sustaining more energy. It can also be an excellent food choice before working out if you like bread toast with peanut butter.  So, if you want an adequate amount of energy when performing your training session, always find time to eat to make the most out of your workout.

3. Take Your Pre-Workout Supplements

If you’re looking to heighten focus and boost your energy during your training sessions, taking pre-workout supplements can be a great idea. Mostly, pre-workout supplements are multi-ingredient dietary formulas used for increasing energy levels and improving athletic performance. They usually contain amino acids and caffeine, which help your arteries and veins to enlarge to increase blood flow. As a result, you’ll be in your most energetic state while doing your workouts. Hence, if you want to experience the benefits brought by pre-work supplements, take it at least 30 minutes before your workout proper. Check this ranking to help you make an educated decision if you’re searching for the best product that will suit your needs.

4. Hydrate Yourself With 20 Ounces Of Water

In most cases, active and physically fit people follow strict hydration requirements before a proper workout. This means they drink 20 oz. of water to make sure they’re hydrated while doing strenuous activities. Even if drinking water can cause you to pee several times, it can still ensure you’ll not have to battle with dizziness and muscle cramps because you’re not dehydrated.

5. Do Some Stretching and Warm-Up

One of the best pre-workout routines to follow is stretching and warming up. Typically, stretching is different from the warm-up. When it comes to stretching, you should spend at least 10 to 15 minutes of various techniques to get your muscles ready for a vigorous workout. In doing so, you’re able to minimize muscle friction, improve flexibility, boost energy levels, and many more.

Additionally, doing some warm-up exercises is also essential because it can increase blood flow and muscle temperature and allow your tendons to get warm. As a result, your muscles will have optimum power and strength during your training sessions.

Below are two of many warm-up exercises you can try:

●      Aerobics – This warm-up requires a bit of sweat. When you perform some aerobics, it means spending at least five minutes on a stationary bike, treadmill, and the like.

●      Warm Up through Movements – Prepare the muscles you’re going to use for the heavy workout by warming up through movement. This means performing some compound lightweight or bodyweight movements to make your shoulders, wrists, and knees warm and ready.

Final Words

Indeed, working out requires a lot of strength and energy, and if you want to maximize the effectiveness of your training sessions, following some pre-workout routines is the best way to go. The more you stick with a regular routine, the more you experience positive results.  So, incorporate these practices now and get ready for a prime workout to keep your mind and body strong and healthy.

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS WITH COMMERCIAL SERVICES

Running a business can be a challenging job. It necessitates many balls being juggled all at once, and all with the same level of importance. It means that you need to find a way to do all the things, all of the time and it can be overwhelming regardless of whether you run a small company or a multi-national corporation. 

Getting the right people in to do the jobs you need is critical not only to success but to mere survival too. If you do not follow specific procedures and rules, then your business can risk being shut down in a heartbeat, which could quite literally mean an end to it. When you’ve put so much energy into building one, the last thing anyone would want is to be closed down by missing something critical in terms of health and safety but how can you make sure you aren’t putting anyone at risk? 

Employing a third party such as Hexo Electrical Testing can help ensure that you meet the necessary legal and security requirements for your staff, customers and property. These companies are experts in their field, meaning you don’t have to be. Instead, you can rest assured that matters are being taken care of so you can entirely focus on what you want your business to deliver. 

If you’re reticent to use commercial services, read on to hear us de-bunk some common misconceptions about them…

There is no need to outsource if you have a dedicated department.

Yes, you might have a facilities department in house but how busy are they? What are their areas of expertise? If you are running a large factory, for example, the facilities department might have a full-time job on their hands in just managing the premises. Can they ensure they do all checks as regularly as they have to? Are all appliances properly PAT tested? Is the fire safety equipment checked? Do they have the necessary qualifications to carry out all these tasks? You’d need an extensive team to cover all bases so if yours can’t, make sure you bring in some experts to help. 

It will cost a fortune to outsource 

Sometimes, receiving a quote can seem off-putting. But consider the bigger picture…would you need another full-time employee in order to complete these tasks? Calculate how much would it cost to recruit and train this individual? Are there certifications they must have year in, year out to ensure their knowledge is up to date? What insurance is required to cover any incidents? How much does their equipment cost? It might turn out that the quote is a lot more affordable than you realize! 

Keeping things internal aids security 

Security and privacy can be critical to a business, and it’s a common thought that bringing in ‘outsiders’ might breach this. In fact, it’s much more likely that any leaks would occur from within. Furthermore, any professional organization would be prepared to sign a non-disclosure agreement or some such in order to protect any intellectual property you might have. 

Commercial services companies can be flexible, only coming when you need them to, are highly qualified and experienced and carry the appropriate certifications and insurances. It really can save a lot of time and money to employ them for specific tasks so it should be on your list to consider when the time comes. 

THE PICK ME UP

The April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Pick Me Up in mag.

THE REBIRTH OF AMERICA'S PLAYGROUND: HOW ATLANTIC CITY IS COMING BACK STRONG IN 2020

There are beach towns and then there is the quintessential beach town. 

The quintessential beach city, to be exact. 

Since the first tourist train arrived on July 5, 1854, Atlantic City, New Jersey has served as the Mid-Atlantic region’s crown jewel of oceanside amusement. Situated an hour outside of Philadelphia and two hours from New York City, It’s always been a perfect reverse bedroom community for big city leisure seekers.

Nowadays, some 27 million annual visitors flock to the resort and entertainment hub. Some come for the sun and sand. Others come for the gaming thrills.  

Six years ago, however, the future of Atlantic City was in serious peril.

A Casino-Sized Collapse

Atlantic City is a place of firsts. 

The world’s first boardwalk opened here in 1870, leading to the nickname “America’s Playground”. The city was the birthplace of saltwater taffy 13 years later. Streets like Baltic Avenue and St. James Place inspired the classic board game Monopoly. 

Atlantic City became the first US city outside of Las Vegas to welcome casinos in 1978.

In 2014, Atlantic City’s casinos experienced their worst economic year in the 36-year history of the industry. Five of the city’s 12 casinos shuttered in a two-year period as tourism and revenue dwindled, resulting in the loss of 11,000 jobs.  

The downturn sent ripples through Atlantic City as restaurants, spas, shops, and entertainment venues connected to the casinos also closed. Development projects ground to a halt. 

Skeptics saw the events of 2014-2016 as a curtain call for the community as we know it. But Atlantic City is a phoenix, rising time and again throughout its history from crushing circumstances. 

Now, recent developments in the casino, higher education, and residential sectors illustrate how the city is bouncing back in a big way in 2020.

Gaming Rebounds

Two casino resort openings in June 2018 signaled a strong rebound for Atlantic City’s gaming industry. 

Following a $500-million facelift, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City took over the building formerly occupied by Trump Taj Mahal. The modernly-appointed facility boasts 2,000 guest rooms, 150,000 square feet of meeting space, and a live entertainment venue. 

Ocean Casino Resort moved into the previous site of Revel Casino Hotel Atlantic City and the city’s most recent casino. Designed to rival the posh resort casinos of Las Vegas, Revel opened to fanfare in 2012. It operated just over two years before a pair of bankruptcies led to a swift demise. 

Ocean Casino resort is home to 130,000 square feet of gaming space, 1,300 upscale guest rooms, over 15 signature restaurants, and a variety of entertainment shows.  

Atlantic City casinos are also diversifying their offerings to attract visitors back to America’s Playground. 

For example, a recent influx in New Jersey and Pennsylvania of online sportsbooks offering NFL betting and other sports is forcing casinos to offer similar options. The casinos responded by opening on-premise sportsbooks that partner with online counterparts to create integrated betting experiences.

School is in Session

Stockton University’s new Atlantic City campus marks another success story in the rebuild.

Opened for fall 2018, Stockton occupies a three-story building for 1,800 students at the former location of Atlantic City High School at the city’s southern edge. A 553-bed dorm facility for students stands across Atlantic Avenue at a site previously occupied by Mayfair Apartments and President Motor Lodge.

The campus was made possible by investments from the Atlantic County Improvement Authority, New Jersey state authorities, and the university. 

It also marks a special homecoming--Stockton’s first classes were held in Atlantic City’s Mayfair Hotel before the main campus in nearby Galloway Township launched in 1971. 

Residential Rejuvenation

Residential construction was one of the hardest-hit sectors in 2014. A new redevelopment zone of multi-family housing in the Marina District indicates the slump is over. 

A plan announced in July 2019 paves the way for MGM Resorts International and Boraie Development to build 200 luxury condo units on a 14-acre waterfront site adjacent to the Golden Nugget Casino Hotel. 

Developers hope the project attracts affluent buyers from New York City and Philadelphia interested in purchasing leisure beach property. According to MGM attorney Jack Plackter, the project is a first for Atlantic City. 

“The second home market is an opportunity the city has never been able to take advantage of”, Plackter explained.

CHARCOAL BEAUTY

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Charcoal Beauty in mag.

#TRIBEGOALS

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see #TRIBEGOALS in mag.

SOMETHING YOU SHOULD KNOW RBG WORKOUT

We've all seen the videos of Hon. Ruth Bader Ginsburg working out and showing us that regardless of who you are, you must make time for your health. This month. we sat down with Bryant Johnson, RBG's personal trainer to find out about his military service, his ability to keep Capitol Hill and the Supreme Court Justices fit as well as his book, The RBG Workout. He also shares what we can do to maintain our fitness goals as well as power foods that we should incorporate.

ATHLEISURE MAG: You served in the US Army for 30 years with 12 of those years being in the Special Forces Airborne Unit! When did you realize that you wanted to work in the fitness industry as well as become a trainer?

BRYANT JOHNSON: I am still serving in the Army Reserves as an Equal Opportunity Advisor (EOA) where I educate and assist soldiers about the military’s equal opportunity program as it relates to race, religion, color, gender, national origin and or sexual orientation. It wasn’t long after jumping out of my first plane that I realized that I need to keep my body in the best possible shape if I am required to perform in any situation the military may put me in. As a result, people would ask me about how to keep in shape. I aspired to lead by example, but I soon realized that the military had programs and people that assist soldiers in getting in shape that they called the Master Fitness Trainers (MFT). That’s when I realized that I could help people to help themselves.

AM: Tell us about your approach to fitness and the kinds of modalities that you provide in your workouts?

BJ: When it comes to the modalities every client is different, but I provide workouts that will focus on the needs of the client that will have forms of strength training, flexibility and cardiovascular mixed throughout the workout.

AM: For nearly 2 decades, you have trained a number of people as well as those in the military, judges, attorneys, clerks – did you specifically pick this niche?

BJ: I did not pick this niche—the niche picked me. I have never solicited my services as a personal trainer. Every client has found me by way of referral and most importantly word of mouth. Which in my opinion is the best advertisement.

AM: You are the trainer for the Notorious RBG and created the RBG workout which is also a best seller book on Amazon. Tell us more about the workout and what it’s like to train the Supreme Court Justice.

BJ: The workout covers all the modalities that I believe should be in a workout (strength training, flexibility and cardiovascular). It is not age or gender specific. It provides you with options that you can do at home or in a gym, with equipment or without.

AM: What are 3 lessons that you have taken away from your work with RBG that are great lessons in life that anyone can apply to their lives in terms of her approach to fitness?

BJ: There are 3 lessons that I have learned from the Justice that actually make up the foundation of all my training. The foundation of any successful long-term fitness plan is motivation. And the key to getting and staying motivated actually has 3 components: AWARENESS, ABILITY, and CONTROL. A person has to have a strong awareness about the importance of their fitness and how it impacts their own life journey, as well as those around them. This awareness drives a person and is the constant and strong reminder of why they want to be consistently dedicated to their well-being. Secondly, a person has to have some basic abilities to facilitate their growth. Whether, it’s being able to move their body according to the exercises or having the time or access to certain tools, a person has to have some basic abilities to facilitate their growth. Whether, it’s being able to move their body according to the exercises or having the time or access to certain tools, a person has to have the means to move toward their goals. Thirdly, after a person understands their abilities, they can translate those abilities into the skills needed to have control over their fitness progress. These 3 components give a person the power to choose wisely and to change effectively. I call this combination Choice-Fullness, and it is the most important and most overlooked part of fitness. Justice Ginsburg has these three components of Choice-Fullness and that is why she is so driven and able to stick to goals. It’s why she has such a powerful attitude towards her health.

AM: You are a member of The Vitamin Shoppe Wellness Council, what is it and what is your role on this council?

BJ: I am a proud member of The Vitamin Shoppe Wellness Council. The Vitamin Shoppe and I align on some of the most important health-related ideas, so it made sense to create a partnership between us. I believe that fitness is about more than physical “wellness." Our goal should be "well-being:” working to attain the best physical, mental/emotional, and social health that we can. The Vitamin Shoppe believes in this too and together we promote healthy ideas, products, and lifestyles.

AM: We have always talked about how fitness is something that can be done anywhere. Frequently, we have talked about the challenges that one has when they’re traveling to keep it up and now as we live in a time where we are staying home, what are ROUTIN3S that we can do at home – can you share 3 that are for your arms, 3 for your abs and 3 for your legs that we can do.

BJ: I recommend the following 3-Exercise Full Body Circuit (3 rounds 1-minute rest between rounds) using only a kettlebell, that targets all three areas.

Two-Hand Swing - 20 reps.

Stand with feet shoulder or hip-width apart and knees slightly bent. Place a kettlebell on the floor about a foot in front between the feet.

Do a quarter squat and hinge forward at the hips to lean down and grip the kettlebell with both hands, elbow fully extended with a palms-down grip.

Keep the back in a neutral spine or as straight as possible as you begin to pull the kettlebell back between the legs.

Push the hips forward and pull the knees back to generate the forward momentum to swing the kettlebell forward and up in front of the body, keep eyes looking forward with hands holding the kettlebell between the thighs with the elbows fully extended. Remember the power and momentum is generated from the hips and legs not the shoulders.

The quick explosive extension of the hips will propel the kettlebell up to chest or shoulder height.

Once the kettlebell reaches the top of the move, allow the kettlebell to drop into the downswing and flex the hips and knees to absorb the weight of the kettlebell back down between the legs for the next repetition.

Clean and Press - 10 reps per side.

Stand with the feet hip-width apart and grip the kettlebell tightly in one hand.

Keep the back straight while sinking slightly into the hips to allow the kettlebell to swing back under the hips between the legs.

Drive the hips forward to swing the kettlebell forward, and as the kettlebell gains forward momentum in front of the body, quickly pull it up to the chest and immediately drop the elbow towards the rib cage and sink back into the hips to catch the kettlebell up by the shoulder.

From this racked position, sink back into the hips, explosively push the feet into the floor, and snap the hips forward while punching the left arm straight into the air to complete the press.

Lower the kettlebell by pulling the left elbow down towards the rib cage, sinking back into the hips, and after the kettlebell has lowered to shoulder-height, letting it drop down between the legs. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions before switching sides.

Front Goblet Squat 10 reps.

Begin the goblet squat by holding the kettlebell at chest height with both hands. Keep your elbows tucked in close to your body and eyes looking forwards.

Feet should be a little wider than shoulder width apart with the toes pointing naturally outwards at 5 – 10 degrees.

Start the squat by pushing your hips backwards as if sitting back into a chair or sitting down as if with ski boots on.

Ensure your bodyweight is back on your heels and they do not lift off the floor during the complete exercise.

Keep your chest up and facing forwards as if your ribcage is being lifted.

As you sit back and down into the squat, weak buttocks and hips may cause the knees to fall inwards, you must force the knees outwards and prevent this from happening.

Continue descending down into the squat until your thighs become parallel with the floor. This is important to achieve maximum activation of the buttock muscles.

Pause at the bottom of the squat position for 1 – 3 seconds and then drive back up to standing by pushing the floor away from you. Stay on your heels.

Once you get to the top position, stand tall, squeeze your buttocks tightly together and avoid leaning backwards.

If you find sitting back into the squat difficult, try opening your legs wider to create a little more room for the squat.

You can also refer to my book “The RBG Workout: How she stays strong and you can too!” There is something for everyone that can help you be a better you.

AM: What are 3 go to foods that we can use to support our workout in terms of giving us energy?

BJ: Before a workout, I find that something with carbs and that can digest easy is best. (Fruit, small sandwich, half a bagel with your favorite spread). My go to is bananas or apples with a little peanut butter and or boiled eggs.

After the workout I will add protein and more carbs (sweet potatoes, quinoa fruit) for energy.

AM: Do you offer On Demand/Virtual/App based training or will this be something that you would offer in the future?

BJ: I'm excited about a new virtual product that I’ll be launching this spring. I can’t unveil it just yet, but it will definitely help people to really create some breakthroughs in their journey towards well-being. Stay tuned!

IG @RBGWorkout

@BdyJustice

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Something You Should Know RBG Workout in mag.

TOP WAYS TO AVOID BOREDOM WHILE WORKING OUT

While some people love working out and can let exercise take over their entire consciousness, most of us need a distraction to keep us entertained and avoid ennui.

If you are looking for fresh ways to keep your mind occupied during your next workout, here are some suggestions to put into practice.

Play a game

If you are exercising at home or at the gym, it is not unreasonable to assume that you will both have access to a smartphone and also have a place to put it so that it is within easy reach while you are working out. With a suitable setup, you can easily play a host of mobile games, many of which are designed for simple touch-screen interactions and do not require you to do anything too complex with your fingers while the rest of your body is occupied.

For example, you could pick up a turn-based title like Blizzard’s popular card game-battler Hearthstone, which will give you plenty of time to get in a few reps while your enemy is planning their next move. You could also play slots on sites like Casumo, giving you access to thousands of options for reel-spinning action.

Basically the only rule about gaming while working out is that you should avoid anything which requires too much concentration or is reliant on split-second responses, as this will only get in the way of your exercise.

Listen to a podcast

Podcasts can be better than music as a workout accompaniment, because if they are engaging enough then you will be entirely focused on what the hosts and guests are saying, rather than worrying about how tired you are getting or how much further you have to go.

In terms of the podcasts you pick, the world is very much your oyster, with over a million shows available to download and stream today. Big-hitters that are specifically themed around exercise and healthy living include Run, Selfie, Repeat, The Rambling Runner and TED Talks Health. Comedy phenomenons that will leave you in stitches rather than giving you a stitch include My Dad Wrote A Porno and Comedy Bang Bang. If you want a podcast to expand your mind, then try out NPR’s Hidden Brain or Waking Up with Sam Harris.

If you want to be really smart about it, picking a podcast that suits the intended length of your workout can be a good move, as it will give you an endpoint to strive towards.

Change your routine

One of the things which is most likely to cause boredom during a workout is if you are repeating the same old sets of exercises and generally falling into the usual rut that you have established for yourself.

A sensible way to overcome this is to always try to do something different whenever you are getting your heart rate up, while also remembering to track your progress over time so that you can actually see how far you have come for all the effort that you have put in.

There are tons of workout apps that can not only monitor your performance and reveal improvements that you have made, but also provide you with the suggestions you need to spice up your exercising and help you to take a break from a routine that has become boring.

Of course you can also get advice and guidance from a personal trainer if you are out of ideas, or choose to take up a team sport as your preferred form of exercise, as this can be more mentally engaging than training solo. Whatever you do, do not neglect your brain while your muscles are getting all the attention.

THE OSCARS FOR DOGS WITH MARIA MENOUNOS

There's nothing that relaxes us more than watching a dog show. This year's 4th Annual Beverly HIlls Dog Show Presented by Purina (airing May 17th at 8pm EST on NBC) is a new breed of dog show that allows us to see 1,500 dogs that are represented by 200 eligible breeds and varieties. During the portion that is aired on TV, you will be able to see each group winner walk the show's runway for the Best in Show judge to determine this year's champion. Before they hit the judging floor, they spend time with Emmy Award-winning journalist, author and TV personality Maria Menounos as she interviews the dogs as well as celebs when they hit the red carpet. We took some time to chat with her to find out why she loves being involved in this show, how she prepares for it versus traditional Awards Season shows and more.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Your career has included so many things as we have been a fan of yours since your days with the WWE and have had a number of WWE Superstars as our cover from Nattie, Naomi and Carmella which has been fun. We also love seeing you host a number of shows, your podcasts, Afterbuzz and more - when did you know that you wanted to work in broadcasting and hosting?

MARIA MENOUNOS: I feel like I have always been kind of, a fan of so many different things. I have been able to be apart of so many different worlds in my career so I am really grateful that I have been in the serious news world as well as the entertainment world, the wrestling world and the sports world – even the dog world. I feel like I always knew that I had a lot of interest, but the fact that I have been able to pursue all of them has been so cool.

AM: Can you tell us about the Beverly Hills Dog Show presented by Purina?

MM: Absolutely, The Beverly Hills Dog Show presented by Purina, will air Sun May 17th 8pm EST/7pm CT and you will get to see beautiful breeds of dogs – over 1,500 actually! They will be there and competing for Best in Show. What's cool about the Beverly Hills Dog Show as opposed to other shows is that you have Hollywood a part of this because it is Beverly Hills of course. We have stars like fashion icon Olivia Culpo to The Office star Brian Baumgartner to Instagram stars like Doug the Pug show up. I can’t get enough.

AM: This isn't your first time being a part of this event. What continues to draw you to this show?

MM: For me, I’m an animal lover. I love my dogs of course so it’s a natural fit for me to work with Purina and the Beverly Hills Dog Show. We’ve done a lot of cool things over the years together. It’s my happiest place on Earth. I literally live to be with all of these breeds. I’m in awe of their beauty and being able to go behind the scenes and see them get ready, it’s like the Oscars for dogs – right? We get glimpses of the stars getting ready for the Oscars and getting their hair coiffed and it’s the same for the dogs. I’m back there with the groomers doing their thing and the trainers getting them ready!

AM: How do you prepare to cover the carpet for this event?

MM: So for me, it does require putting outfits together that are chic and comfortable because I want to be able to on the ground on the red carpet. For most red carpets, I’m usually standing but for this one, I’m usually sitting down and playing with the dogs. So it has to be comfortable so I can play with them and preferably, nothing black so the dog hair isn’t totally apparent. I have to have a little dog roller and I need my allergy medication with me usually as well. I also have a whole different process for a dog awards show versus a celebrity awards show. The same thing applies – you have to be prepared, you have to eat a good meal. I have my nutrition in there and I get to do the fun stuff like squish all the babies!

AM: As a dog lover - have you picked up any tips from the show that you will bring back to your four legged friends?

MM: Yeah. I usually get tips from the trainers in terms of what to use with their eyes. They call it Angel Eyes like when the little white dogs get that stuff here.

AM: What is your favorite part of being involved in this show and what are you specifically looking forward to for this next one coming up?

MM: For me, it would be like someone in your hometown being able to see all of the celebrities. People love that stuff. I feel like that person at the Beverly Hills Dog Show because I’m just goo goo ga ga. My eyeballs are like window shield wipers because I’m like, “Oh my God, look at the poodle – look at the Golden Retriever. Oh my God, look at the little terrier.” I’m a crazy person at this show and that’s why I feel like it’s a match made in heaven.

AM: As we're all staying in during this time due to COVID-19, how are you navigating the past few weeks in terms of staying safe and sane and are there things that pet owners should do?

MM: I had a very famous veterinarian, Dr. Barbara Royal of the Royal Treatment Veterinary Center. She is Oprah’s veterinarian and she was on my show, Better Together early on in the crisis and had a ton of tips.

She explained that if someone is sick with COVID-19, they should restrict their contact with their pets as they would with people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people that have the virus limit their contact with their animals until more information is made known about the virus. This also includes avoid petting, snuggling and kissing them.

While there isn't solid evidence that animals can carry the virus internally, their bodies may act as a surface that can transmit the disease. In theory, one person touches the pet, another person touches the same area and inadvertently may transfer it to their hand and rub their eyes.

She also suggested that if someone is sick and if it's possible, have someone else in the household care for them while in recovery. If this isn't an option, make sure to wash your hands before and after interaction with your pet, avoid sharing food and wear a facemask if you have one.

She also shared another tip that even she found to be a hard one to do but necessary! For those that are not sick and are going out for walks, it's best to not have people touch your pets. This can be a hard one; however, it's important to maintain social distancing. People want the comfort of getting affection from a pet but social distancing must apply to your pets too.

Finally, she reminded us that if a pet becomes sick and you don't know why and you're concerned, make sure to call and go see your vet.

IG @Purina

@MariaMenounos

Read the April Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Oscars for Dogs with Maria Menounos in mag.

PROTECTIVE SPORTS GEAR - REVIEWS TEACH YOU ABOUT ATHLETIC MUST HAVES

When playing any sport, you have to get properly equipped and prepared. Unlike popular opinions, this is not only a matter of looking good while exercising and training. It is a matter of staying safe, protected, and on top of the game at all times. The right gear influences not only keeps you free of injuries, but also your overall skills and technique.

We all know that certain activities can get rough and tough sometimes, especially when it comes to team sports. People assume that you don’t need any special gear for your morning run, but what I have found out by reading a large number of reviews on different gear is that every physical activity requires some sort of equipment, as this page shows us.

Why Do Athletes Need Special Equipment?

If you believe that certain types of equipment exist only for athletes to show them off and that they don’t have any special purposes, then you must be new to sports. Every experienced sportsperson knows that proper equipment is essential for various reasons. Before I get to telling you what reading reviews about specific athletic gear has thought me, I want to be sure that you know the overall purpose of all the equipment.

When you start doing your research and reading all the necessary reviews, you will see that with each and every sport comes a list of essential equipment. A football coach will require you to get different things than a basketball coach. Even if you simply want to start going to the gym, you’ll find that you cannot do it without proper gear.

Listen to what these reviews are saying. They definitely aren’t trying to make you buy some unnecessary things just so that you spend money. It’s not like your money is going in their pockets, and they don’t have any hidden agendas. The reason every review insists on proper equipment is because it will enhance your performance, enable you to progress more quickly, and protect you in the process.

Injuries are very common among athletes, and I have no doubt that you want to avoid them if you can. The best way to avoid them is to start playing it safe from the beginning, and playing it safe means gearing up. This is especially important if you are a parent of a child who is starting to play a sport. You don’t want them to lose motivation because they keep getting injured. You don’t want them to get injured at all.

Read more about how to keep your kid safe while exercising: https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/sport-safety.html

What Are The Must Haves According To Reviews?

Now that I have explained why equipment is necessary, it’s time tell you about the most essential things you will need to have when engaging in any sport whatsoever. These came out as winners since almost all the reviews I have read listed them as essentials. Keep in mind that the list I will give you below is not complete, but it is a good place to start. If, later on, you get really serious about a certain sport, the best thing to do is deepen your research and read many different reviews on all the equipment you will need for that sport.

Most importantly, this is a budget-friendly list, which means that you won’t have to spend a fortune in order to get prepared. Naturally, some investment is necessary, but what multiple reviews have taught me is that you never start with the most expensive stuff. Once again, if you begin thinking about doing something professionally, you will need to make bigger investments.

Helmets

It’s not by accident that helmets are usually found on top of the list of every review I have read so far. Almost all sports carry a risk of head injury. Even though most people see this piece of equipment as optional, if you want to reduce the risk of dangerous concussions and similar head injuries, you will have to think about protecting yourself with a helmet. When it comes to children, this becomes even more important, since those childhood concussions can leave some serious consequences.

While every sport requires different pieces of equipment, as Sports Gratitude explains, a helmet should be a top priority for most of them. Cycling, skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and many more activities call for wearing a helmet. Disregarding it is not only irresponsible, but also dangerous, especially if you are a beginner. If all the people reviewing sports gear have decided to put helmets on top of the list, it must mean something.

Safety Pads And Guards

The next thing that reviews have showed me is that pads are always essential, and especially so if you are engaging in contact sports, including football, lacrosse, hockey, and more. Individual sports also require the use of safety pads and guards. That means that you shouldn’t think about buying them only if you are practicing a team sport. Generally, any physical activity will be much safer with these.

The type of pads you will get, however, does depend on the sport. You cannot cover your whole body with these protective pieces. There are shin, neck, chest, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, thighs and knee pads. In order to make sure that you are buying the right type for you, I suggest you find reviews focusing on specific sports and specific pads.

Proper Footwear

I was surprised to find out that proper footwear is a big part of your protection. Great shoes are not only for show. According to all the reviews I have read, they serve a more important purpose than that. Wearing the wrong types of shoes is a guaranteed path towards injury. A sprained ankle is only one of the ways you can get injured by wearing the wrong shoes.

The type you will choose depends on the specific sport you are playing. Do your research and find the ones that fit you and your activity perfectly. Once again, don’t forget to read your fair share of reviews in order to find the best shoes for you. Start by finding reviews about types of shoes, and then continue with brand reviews.

WHAT ARE THE MOST POTENT CBD PRODUCTS IN THE MARKET TODAY?

It might seem that cannabidiol or CBD products are everywhere as of late. Perhaps, one of the reasons for this is the 2018 US Farm Bill, which legalized industrial hemp. This legalization also made the US government approve of the use of medical and recreational cannabis. Now, many CBD manufacturers and providers supply consumers with potent products. But, what are the most potent CBD-infused products today?

What Is CBD?

Before knowing the most potent CBD products in today's market, you should take a deeper dive into understanding this naturally-occurring substance.

CBD is part of a distinct chemical compound family called cannabinoids, which tend to be in Cannabis sativa plants. CBD, in particular, is only one of the several cannabinoids in cannabis plants, along with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

But, unlike THC, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound. Therefore, consumers shouldn’t worry too much about getting “high” or “stoned” from using CBD-infused products.

However, different CBD products exist in today’s market. Some of these products even have a small amount of THC in them, albeit it shouldn’t go over 0.3%, as mandated by the law. So, you need to check out online resources first before purchasing CBD products to know the concentration of this organic component in these items.

Still, searching online can be a challenge as using keywords, like “CBD products”, will yield thousands to millions of search results. Consider being specific with your keyword strings, such as typing “Remedy Review product tests”, in the search bar.

The Most Potent CBD Products On The Market

A plethora of CBD products exist in today’s market. But, some CBD-infused products have higher concentrations of this naturally-occurring substance than others. Thus, here are three of the most potent CBD products on the market, at the time of writing:

1. Green Roads CBD Oil

Green Roads: a family-owned business that started small but is now a famous CBD supplier in different communities, and with good reason.

At the time of writing, this brand now distributes its products to over 5,000 retail stores across the US. This company also authenticates their products by submitting them to third-party laboratories for testing. Then, the organization posts these results on its main website, allowing visitors and consumers to see these essential pieces of information conveniently.

Perhaps, one of the reasons for the growth of this company is the potency of its CBD. The Green Roads CBD oil variations have concentrations that range from 100 mg to 3,500 mg, depending on the size of the bottle. In contrast, some CBD products, like CBD gummies, only have about 5 mg of CBD per serving.

But, consumers of this CBD-infused product, along with other potent variations on the market, should follow the correct dosage to avoid potential adverse effects.

2. PureKana CBD Oil

If you think that a potency of 3,500 mg is already plenty, then, what about 5,000 mg?  That’s the CBD content found in PureKana’s CBD oil. 

Talking about CBD to specific groups and individuals might bring up this company. It’s because the firm uses the full-spectrum extraction process, which means users can gain high concentrations of this natural substance through the firm’s products.

But, you don't need to get the 5,000 mg variant. The company also sells lower concentrations of CBD oil.

3. Hemp Bombs CBD

Hemp Bombs is a Tampa, Florida-based company that has an excellent reputation in the CBD industry. Perhaps, one of the most impressive aspects of this brand is its high-quality CBD products.

Interested purchasers can buy CBD-infused products from Hemp Bombs with concentrations ranging from 125 mg to 4,000 mg. But, bear in mind that the company doesn't provide full-spectrum products. Most of the products sold by the firm are CBD isolates, and these merchandises are the purest form of CBD you can find on the market.

Thus, some of the prices for Hemp Bombs’s products might be more expensive than other CBD retailers. 

Factors To Consider

With several CBD shops operating in the industry, it can be challenging to select the right CBD product. You should take note of these essential factors when buying one:

●    Extraction methods

●    THC levels

●    CBD concentration

●    Price

●    Third-party test results

If the brand isn’t transparent in divulging these pieces of information, consider choosing other suppliers to avoid risks.

Final Thoughts

Some CBD products on the market reign over others because of the potency of this naturally-occurring compound that they carry. Companies like PureKana, Hemp Bombs, and Green Roads provide the market with high concentrations of CBD, allowing their consumers to gain better chances of receiving health benefits from the substance. However, make sure to consult the advice of a doctor before buying any CBD product on the market to reduce the risks of adverse effects.

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.