Move it
Going to the gym is intimidating enough without feeling the need to look like an advert for an athletics brand. When buying workout gear, aim to spend the most on the essentials
Splurge on:
Supportive shoes
No matter what sport you are doing, a good pair of training shoes is essential. Whether it’s yoga, hiking, weightlifting or running, choose the right shoes for the job.
Sports bra
Improper support can lead to damage to the connective tissue from moving up and down, especially during high impact exercises. This can in turn lead to sagging breasts and stretch marks. Even smaller-chested women need a supportive bra.
Skimp On:
Fitness trackers
Fitness trackers are great for monitoring activity levels and heart rate however you don’t need to shell out for a name brand watch. Knock-offs offer great functionality at a fraction of the price or simply download a phone app instead.
Workout clothes
Modern workout clothes offer a variety of functions, from wicking fabrics that keep you dry to compression clothing that speeds recovery. But if you just want to get moving and burn some calories, put on whatever you’re comfortable in.
Fuel it
Why you should meal prep
Meal prepping isn’t just for bodybuilders or the social media fit elite. It is the best way to get control over your diet.
1. You eat healthier
If you plan and prepare your meals in advance, you make better food choices than when you have to grab something on the fly or cook when you’re tired.
2. You save money
Planning your meals in advance means you can bulk-buy longer lasting foods like your proteins and starches. Frequent trips to the supermarket often lead to excessive spending.
3. You save time
Meal prepping may initially seem time consuming but one afternoon spent in the kitchen saves you hours of cooking later on in the week.
4. You control your weight
By eating pre-planned, pre-cooked meals, you take the guesswork out of portion control or calorie counting, keeping you on track for your body goals.
Love it
Laugh your way to a better life
Having a good sense of humour (GSOH!) is not just a cliché for blind dates. Laughter truly is the best medicine and laughter can help you in more ways than you can imagine.
1. Love and Laughter
In new relationships, humour is an effective tool for attracting someone and overcoming awkwardness. Sharing a laugh with a new or long-term partner can be a fun way to bond and private jokes between couples create intimacy.
2. Managing conflict with humour
Used respectfully, a light-hearted joke can diffuse tension and allow you to get your point across without getting the other person’s defences up. Timing is everything however, and it is important to assess your audience.
3. The healing power of laughter
There’s a reason laughter is the best medicine. Not only does it feel good, it relaxes muscles, boosts immunity and reduces stress.