9PLAYLIST | SARA HUGHES
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9PLAYLIST | KELLY CHENG
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PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Onur Binay
GAMING ON THE GO: FITNESS TIPS FOR BUSY GAMERS
Gaming has become the go-to form of entertainment for millions around the world. As a hobby, gaming often requires players to spend hours in front of their screens as they work to accomplish their goals. As fun as this can be, there is a downside: gaming is sedentary by nature and those extended hours in front of TV and computer screens can cause gamers to go a long time without any physical activity. However, it doesn't have to be that way. As counterintuitive as it may seem, gaming and fitness can go hand in hand.
While gaming is a mostly sedentary activity, there are things you can do to ensure you get the movement you need in, even during extended gaming sessions, to keep yourself fit. The best way to do that is by incorporating a simple fitness routine into your gaming schedule. That way, you can improve your physical health and gaming performance. In this article, we look at how to balance gaming with physical fitness to make sure you stay active and healthy while enjoying your favorite games.
Understanding the Physical Strain of Gaming
Not all games require a big time commitment, and if you mainly play casual games, you probably won't have to spend as much time adapting your fitness routine to gaming as more hardcore gamers. Still, things like wrist strain, back pain, neck stiffness, and poor posture can creep in regardless of the types of games you play. These issues stem from the fixed seating positions and repetitive movements that many of these games require.
One popular game that is played sitting down is poker. With online casinos becoming more and more popular, more people are playing poker online than ever before. As anyone who's played the game knows, poker sessions can quickly become long drawn out affairs as players decide whether to fold, call, or raise. That's why many poker players make a point of maintaining healthy habits to make sure they're at the top of their game. Prolonged sitting is a part of the game, but players can do things like stand up and stretch to minimize the physical strain and fatigue that can come from sitting for long periods.
It's not just poker; the same is true whether a person is playing a casual game like Candy Crush or a battle royale title like Fortnite. Multi-hour gaming sessions can take their toll, but if they take breaks, move around, and make sure they have an ergonomic chair with lumbar support, then players can enjoy their favorite titles without physical strain.
Quick and Effective Fitness Tips for Gamers
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Vinicius "amnx" Amano
There's no need to complicate things when introducing physical activity into your gaming routine. You're more likely to stick with a fitness regimen if you keep it simple. For example, you should make it a point to do easy stretches before and after your gaming sessions to prevent muscle stiffness and improve circulation. Stretches like wrist rolls, shoulder rotations, and leg stretches can all help alleviate tension in areas that are most likely to suffer from strain during longer gaming sessions.
You should also take advantage of the natural breaks in gameplay when the screen is loading, or your character is respawning to do brief exercises like push-ups, squats, or planks, which will allow you to work in some movement without interrupting your gaming experience. If you're a serious gamer who regularly spends hours gaming, you should consider a standing desk or under-desk bike to keep moving as you play. Jumping jacks and brisk walking between games are ways to get cardio while gaming and will help you keep your energy levels high.
Fitness-focused games are another way to combine entertainment with physical fitness. If you own a VR headset, you can play one of the games that require moving your entire body to complete tasks. Games like Beat Saber or Ring Fit Adventure combine fun gameplay with fitness challenges to keep you entertained and in shape.
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9LIST STORI3S | JORDAN CHILES
63MIX ROUTIN3S | BROOKE BURKE
WHY HITCH BIKE RACKS ARE THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR BIKE
Traveling with your bike is an exciting prospect, especially when you’re heading to a scenic trail, a biking event, or simply exploring a new area. But transporting your bike safely can sometimes be a challenge. Thankfully, hitch bike racks offer an excellent solution for cyclists who want a convenient and reliable way to bring their bikes along. In this article, we’ll explore why a hitch bike rack is such a great choice, their benefits, and how they can make your biking adventures more enjoyable.
PHOTO CREDIT | Freepik
What Are Hitch Bike Racks?
Before diving into the benefits, it’s essential to understand what a hitch bike rack is. As the name suggests, this type of bike rack attaches to the hitch receiver of your vehicle. Unlike other options that may be mounted on the roof or trunk, hitch racks provide a sturdy and practical way to transport one or more bikes. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a hardcore enthusiast, a hitch bike rack is a worthwhile investment that simplifies your travels.
Easy Installation and Use
One of the standout benefits of a hitch bike rack is its simplicity. These racks are easy to install and remove, making them a popular choice among bikers of all experience levels. The process involves sliding the bike rack into the hitch receiver of your vehicle, securing it with a pin or bolt, and ensuring it’s fastened properly.
Many racks come with user-friendly features like tilting mechanisms that allow you to access your trunk without removing the bikes, adding to their convenience. Once installed, the bike rack makes loading and unloading your bikes a breeze, so you can spend less time struggling with equipment and more time on the trail.
Safe and Secure Bike Transportation
A major concern when transporting bikes is ensuring they remain secure during the journey. The last thing you want is for your bike to wobble, shift, or sustain damage while you drive. Hitch bike racks are designed with safety in mind, providing a stable platform for your bikes, whether you’re driving short distances or embarking on a long road trip.
Many hitch racks come equipped with sturdy straps or clamps to hold your bikes in place, preventing unnecessary movement. Some models also feature anti-sway cradles or integrated locks, adding an extra layer of security to your travels. Knowing that your bikes are safe and sound on the back of your car gives you peace of mind and allows you to enjoy the journey.
Versatility for Different Vehicles
Hitch bike racks are versatile and can be used with a wide range of vehicles, from sedans and SUVs to trucks. As long as your vehicle has a hitch receiver, you’re good to go. This versatility makes hitch racks an excellent choice for families or groups who may want to switch the rack between vehicles without hassle.
Additionally, hitch bike racks are available in different sizes to accommodate varying numbers of bikes, from single-bike carriers to racks that can hold four or five bikes. This adaptability ensures that whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, there’s a bike rack suited to your needs.
Protect Your Bike and Your Car
Another key advantage of hitch bike racks is that they help protect both your bike and your car during transportation. Roof-mounted racks, while effective, expose your bike to wind resistance and potential damage from low-clearance obstacles like bridges or parking garages. Trunk-mounted racks, on the other hand, can scratch your vehicle's paint and even damage the trunk itself.
Hitch racks keep your bike safely positioned behind the vehicle, reducing the risk of damage from wind, debris, or low-clearance issues. The design of hitch racks minimizes contact between the rack and your car’s body, reducing the likelihood of scratches or dents. This protective benefit is especially valuable for those who drive long distances or in busy areas.
Save Fuel and Reduce Wind Resistance
Roof-mounted racks increase the aerodynamic drag of your vehicle, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, especially on highways. In contrast, hitch-mounted bike racks are positioned behind the vehicle, where they don’t affect the car’s aerodynamics as much. By reducing wind resistance, you’ll experience less strain on your engine and better fuel economy, which is particularly important for long trips.
The improved fuel efficiency that comes with hitch racks not only saves you money but also helps reduce your carbon footprint, making it an eco-friendly choice for bike transportation.
No More Lifting Bikes onto the Roof
One of the most practical benefits of a hitch bike rack is that it eliminates the need to lift your bike onto the roof of your vehicle. For many cyclists, hoisting a bike above shoulder height can be a daunting task, especially for heavier models or when dealing with multiple bikes. Hitch racks are positioned at a much more accessible height, so loading and unloading your bike is far easier and faster.
This is particularly beneficial for families with children’s bikes, as well as older cyclists or anyone who struggles with lifting heavy objects. With a hitch bike rack, you can load your bikes with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on the ride ahead instead of the loading process.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Mac Blades
Options for Any Budget
When it comes to hitch bike racks, there’s something for every budget. Whether you’re looking for a basic model that does the job or a high-end rack with advanced features like integrated locks, foldable designs, and anti-theft systems, you’ll find options to suit your needs. Some affordable models still offer excellent durability and reliability, so you don’t have to break the bank to invest in a good-quality bike rack.
Researching different brands and models can help you find the best bike rack for your vehicle and budget. With a little time spent comparing features, you can get a rack that meets all your travel requirements.
Perfect for Group Rides and Family Trips
If you frequently travel with others, a hitch bike rack is an excellent choice. Many racks are designed to carry multiple bikes, making group rides or family vacations more convenient. Instead of taking multiple vehicles or leaving some bikes behind, a hitch rack allows you to transport up to four or five bikes at once, depending on the model.
This feature is particularly handy for group trips to biking events, camping excursions, or outdoor adventures where everyone wants to bring their own bike. Plus, with all the bikes securely attached to one vehicle, you can keep everyone together and reduce the risk of losing or damaging any bikes during transit.
Long-Lasting Durability
Hitch bike racks are built to last, offering years of reliable use. Made from strong materials like steel and aluminum, these racks can withstand the rigors of frequent travel and varying weather conditions. Many brands also offer rust-resistant finishes, ensuring that your rack remains in good condition for longer, even after exposure to rain, snow, or mud.
When properly maintained, a high-quality hitch bike rack can last through countless biking trips, providing excellent value for your investment. Regular cleaning and occasional tightening of bolts or fasteners will keep your rack in top shape for years to come.
Conclusion: The Hitch Bike Rack Advantage
Hitch bike racks offer numerous benefits for cyclists looking to travel with their bikes easily and safely. From the simple installation process to the protection they provide for both your bike and your vehicle, these racks are a versatile and cost-effective option for any bike enthusiast. Whether you’re heading out on a solo ride, joining a group for a weekend adventure, or taking your family on a biking vacation, a hitch bike rack ensures that your bikes are securely transported with minimal hassle.
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63MIX ROUTIN3S | GRIFFIN COLAPINTO
9PLAYLIST MULTI | CHEF ROBERT IRVINE
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THE 9LIST
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#TRIBEGOALS
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ATHLEISURE BEAUTY
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9LOOKS | NATORI PRE-FW25
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IN OUR BAG | FOR A TENNIS LINK UP
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PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Frank Mckenna
THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A TRANSPARENT PHOTOGRAPHY PRICING LIST
In today's digital age, consumers are becoming increasingly savvy and discerning. When choosing a professional photographer, clients want more transparency in pricing information than ever before. A transparent photography pricing list can bring numerous benefits to the photographer and their potential clients. If you’re a photographer, then you’re in the right place because this article details why having a pricing list is a must.
1. Building Trust with Clients
One of the key advantages of a transparent pricing list is that it helps build trust with clients from the very beginning. By providing precise and detailed information about the services offered and their associated costs, photographers show that they have nothing to hide. Clients appreciate this level of honesty, which fosters trust and confidence in the photographer's professionalism. You could also compare pricing with competitors by giving photography pricing examples to your potential clients.
2. Prequalifying Potential Clients
Transparent pricing allows potential clients to self-identify whether the photographer's services align with their budget and expectations. When clients know what they can expect in terms of pricing, there is no need for them to inquire or waste time if it is beyond their means. This prequalification process ensures that inquiries received are from serious prospects who are more likely to convert into paying customers.
3. Saving Time for Both Parties
By listing prices upfront, photographers save valuable time by avoiding unnecessary back-and-forth communication regarding pricing details. Instead of spending hours haggling or negotiating prices with potential clients who may not be willing or able to pay the established rates, photographers can focus on serving those who are genuinely interested and ready to make a booking.
4. Setting Realistic Client Expectations
A transparent pricing list sets realistic expectations for clients about the quality of service they will receive based on their budget constraints. By noting different packages or tiers along with their corresponding prices, photographers provide clarity regarding the scope of work included at each price point. Clients must be informed that the pay decides the quality of work.
5. Demonstrating Professionalism
A transparent photography pricing list serves as a testament to the photographer's professionalism and commitment to excellence. It shows that they have carefully considered factors such as time, expertise, and equipment costs when determining their rates. This level of transparency also indicates that the photographer values open communication and respects the client's right to make informed decisions.
6. Reducing Awkward Conversations
Without a transparent pricing list, photographers may find themselves in uncomfortable situations where clients expect prices significantly lower than what the photographer typically charges. By clearly outlining the cost of services in advance, both parties are spared from potentially awkward or embarrassing conversations about price adjustments.
7. Building Credibility and Differentiation
In a competitive industry like photography, having a transparent pricing list can help photographers establish credibility and differentiate themselves from the crowd. By openly displaying their prices alongside the value they deliver, photographers instill confidence in potential clients who are looking for reliable professionals they can trust to capture their most cherished moments.
8. Encouraging Informed Decision Making
When clients have access to a transparent pricing list, they are empowered to make informed decisions regarding which package or service best suits their needs and budget. They can assess the offerings without feeling pressured or rushed into making quick decisions, resulting in more satisfied and confident customers.
9. Facilitating Comparison and Value Assessment
A transparent pricing list allows potential clients to compare different photographers based on their rates and offerings. By displaying prices openly, photographers invite clients to assess the value they would receive in exchange for their investment. This transparency helps clients make well-informed decisions about which photographer aligns best with their budget and desired level of service.
10. Enhancing Customer Satisfaction and Referrals
When clients have clear expectations about pricing, there is less room for misunderstandings or dissatisfaction later. A transparent photography pricing list ensures that clients know exactly what they are paying for, reducing the chances of unexpected charges or hidden fees. Satisfied customers are more likely to become loyal repeat clients and also refer the photographer to their friends, family, and colleagues.
Conclusion
The benefits of having a transparent photography pricing list are numerous: building trust with clients, prequalifying potential clients, saving time for both parties, setting realistic client expectations, demonstrating professionalism, reducing awkward conversations, building credibility and differentiation, and encouraging informed decision-making. The advantages go beyond just financial considerations; they leverage transparency to foster strong relationships between photographers and their clientele.
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PHOTO CREDIT | Naked Nutrition
JUST THE GOOD STUFF
When you workout, you have a plan in mind whether it is maintaining your current physique, making sure that you have energy/endurance, or even focusing on areas - all of these would be goals. Like any goal there are plans and you have a number of things that you may need to do in order to achieve them. When it comes to working out consuming the nutrients that you need is essential! We have been talking about Naked Nutrition for awhile and we like that they make products that are clean and are good for our bodies. Like anything that involves working out, you may change up your gear, your routines, and whatever it is that you use to nourish your body! Being able to enjoy variety makes sure that you’re not in a rut and that you have options!
Recently, Naked Nutrition released their Strawberry Creatine Monohydrate Powder which is known as their Naked Creatine. If you have been enjoying your favorite protein or whey shake, here’s what you need to know about Naked Creatine in general! It is the highest grade, fastest dissolving, and rapidly absorbed creatine monohydrate that is on the market. Studies indicate that it enhances gains in maximum strength (including muscle energy and growth), repitition under sub-maximal load, delays of onset fatigue and it increases the body’s overall training capacity. You’ll find that the concentration of this product when it comes to muscle tissue - reduces the fatigue that takes place when exercising so that you can recover quicker and perform at your most optimal level. This could be felt when you are engaging in high-intensity workouts like weighlifting or sprinting. They also test for heavy metal testing via a third independent party. You’ll find that in this product, there are no additives as it only has premium ingredients. You’ll find that you can absorb this easily and that it dissolves quickly. All of this can make your work in the gym or your studio of choice optimized!
So with their Strawberry Creatine Monohydrate Powder, you can add to water, protein shakes, and your favorite smoothie. It’s made with real strawberry juice powder! It’s best enjoyed before your workout (you can take it 1 to 2 hours prior to heading to the gym) or after. It’s also worth noting that you should have it at the same time each day for maximum impact. You can include 2 scoops in a 14-16oz sports drink or beverage of your choice. You can also combine this with their Naked Whey for protein shake as a pre-workout or with a Naked BCAAS which assists in lean muscle building. It’s worth noting that this creatine uses a synthetic creatine powder that does not come from animal sources! Whether you are vegan or non-vegan, you can use this with your workouts since it is chemically and functionally identical to creatines that are animal-based. You will also find that it is soy-free as well as GMO free. If you have questions on whether it is good for your dietary lifestyle, you should consult a healthcare professional. If you are taking a break and not working out, stop using this until you go back to hitting the gym!
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PHOTO CREDITS | ABC The Bachelor Disney/John Fleenor
THE BACHELORETTE S21. E9. | THE FINALE
PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette
We’re down to the end now and a decision will be made! We’ll see who Jenn Tran picks or doesn’t on tonight’s episode of The Bachelorette. Devin and Marcus are left to meet Jenn’s family.
While we watch how it all ends, Jesse Palmer is hosting the After the Rose Ceremony and we see Jesse and Jonathan in the audience who cryptically say that they are there for the rumors of whatever happened! Tell us more!
Devin is up first and the family takes some time to get to know him more. Devin speaks so highly of Jenn and you can tell that he has feelings for her. Devin asks Jenn’s brother if he can have the blessing and he says he appreciates that he asked, but he hasn’t talked to the second guy.
Marcus now meets her family and talks about his experience with Jenn and how he wants to see it all the way through with her. Marcus tells his mom and sister that he is trying to get there and his mom says, “oh, you’re not ready to get engaged?” Her brother tells her that she can’t make excuses for him and she needs to know where he stands. In addition, she asks him point blank and he keeps saying things that were said make him feel better, but he is still trying to get there and she feels confused.
Devin and Jenn do a fun ceremony with Hawaaians from the island. They talk about their concerns and worries with one another even though they are excited to be with one another. He hears that she has a fear of abandonment and he realizes that they are a couple and that he will need to be there for her as well. They throw large rocks into the ocean to signify issues that they have had that wore them down that are not being lifted off of them. They submerge themselves into the water so that they can emerge as a new person who are ready to move on. She enjoyed her date with Devin and she enjoyed the love and respect that she felt from him and that he knows what he wants. She also has a final date with Marcus and she doesn’t know where he’s at with her and even when she asks, she can’t get a response so that she can be settled with his answer.
Jesse and Marcus meet up to catch up with what is going on. Even Jesse is confused about how Marcus still doesn’t know and he tells him he needs to look from within to see if he really does love her and if so, he needs to tell her. While she is getting ready for her final date with Marcus, she decides that it is time to get her answers and she’s not going to wait and makes her way to him. She still doesn’t get the answers that she is looking for and he says that he is in love with her and is afraid to lose her, but the fact that it always feels like she has to pull answers out of him and he says that he is scared, that doesn’t necessarily make people excited to be in that situation either. She gets up to take a minute and she knows she has spent a lot of time and energy on someone who doesn’t feel the same way. She comes back and he continues to talk about his love for her and how he has been scared and honest with himself. He tells her he’s not giving her what she needs, She lets him know that she opened his heart to him every time and that she got lost in it and gave too much along the way. She doesn’t want to give and prove herself to be considered to be worth it. She doesn’t want to wait around and see if someone will get there. She lets him know that she is done and although she had hope, she is walking away. She lets him know that she appreciates his honesty so that she got the answers that she needed.
Marcus is on the couch in front of Jesse. He explains that it was tough to watch that back and he knows that it was tough for both of them. He talks about what being in Hawaii was like and how he reflected on where his feelings were and whether he was living up to her expectations. He said that he stumbled on some painful truths and he wanted her to know about them. He explains that when he got home, he wasn’t sure if they made the right choice, but once he was home, he realized that they made the right choice to not go forward. Although it seems that Jenn was the one that said she had to move on.
Although we don’t know what happened between her and Devin yet, she comes out to chat with Marcus. She tells him that the way Devin came to her, she realized that they were not aligned and that her heart was not in the place that she could be with him. She felt that it made sense to talk with him on what would have been their last date so that they could have that closure.
We’re back in Hawaii and we see Devin selecting rings with Neil Lane. She talks with Jesse and says that she will not let him propose to her, she will propose to him so that he knows he will fight for her every day.
We expected to watch the proposal which seemed it would be sweet; however, Jesse said that he couldn’t show the footage without have Jenn say what happened. They left Hawaii engaged; however, he began pulling away from her and not letting her hang with his family or doing any of the promises that he made to her. He broke it off with her and said he had felt this way for a long time and all of a sudden there was nothing.
They still show the video of the proposal which is super uncomfortable to watch. It’s something that definitely made us leave feeling pretty icky.
Each night during this season, we have tweeted about The Bachelorette and you have been able to can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
During each week, we let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
WHO IS CONTINUING BEYOND HOMETOWNS
PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth
THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS
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