Author: Richard C. Trotter
You might know kickboxing as a bouncy bodyweight aerobics offering at your local YMCA, an intimidating studio class that involves boxing gloves and heavy bags, or even as the competitive full-contact combat sport of Muay Thai—the sport has range. “There are many different styles of kickboxing,” explains Chris Gagliardi, CPT, CSCS, an ACE-certified personal trainer and NSCA-certified strength and conditioning specialist. “One style, the combat sport, is designed for fighting, while cardio kickboxing removes the fight aspect and mainly focuses on enhancing your health by improving your fitness.” Whether you climb into a real or hypothetical ring, the practice can…
Don’t let your desk job be a pain in your backside! When you’re sitting all day, both your glutes and hamstrings become inactive, leading to tightness, reduced flexibility, and even lower back pain. But a quick glutes and hamstrings workout is just the thing to get you moving and feeling stronger. “Glutes and hamstrings are such a powerful workout combo, because they work together to power some of your biggest movements—like deadlifts, hip thrusts, and leg curls,” says Kelsey Wells, personal trainer for the Sweat app. “Your hamstrings help with hip extension, and when they’re strong and balanced with your…
If you’re jolted awake most mornings with a pang in your head, you know it’s quite possibly the worst way to start your day. Morning headaches are no joke, and if you find yourself frequently wondering why do I wake up with a headache?, there could be plenty of possible culprits. Whether it’s from how you slept, not getting enough rest (learn all about that in Well+Good’s Rest Issue), or even taking too many headache meds, there are plenty of reasons your head might be pounding before you’ve even had your coffee. Ahead, we break down the most common reasons…
Ever see an exercise described as an “abs exercise” in one place only to find the same exact movement categorized as a “core exercise” elsewhere? The two terms are often used interchangeably by the fitness industry, and people have varying thoughts on what constitutes each. Plus, there’s plenty of overlap between the two. However, there are some key differences between your abs and core. In simple terms, your core includes your abs, but your abs don’t encompass all of your core. And while strong abs are important, it’s not enough to just train your abs and neglect the rest of…
It’s perfectly normal to be a little self-absorbed during a personal training session. After all, it’s your time to focus on yourself, your goals, and your fitness. It’s your personal trainer’s job to be focused on you, too. That said, putting a touch of thought into what’s happening on their side of the squat rack can make their job easier—and your session more effective. Here’s what two personal trainers wish all their clients knew—the pet peeves, the trade secrets, and the tips that’ll help them help you level up your sessions. 1. Making the most of your session means coming…
Your weekly horoscope for October 13 to 19, 2024 is busier than ever—and full of highs and lows. You’re feeling unsettled at the start of the week when Mercury in Libra slams into Pluto in Capricorn on October 13. This shines a light on topics, feelings, and conversations you typically prefer to leave in the shadows. This means secrets may be revealed and discussions can leave you feeling a little vulnerable. Later in the day, Mercury enters Scorpio, encouraging you to explore your darker side. You’re craving a deeper connection with those around you and more substance in your conversations.…
With the Well+Good SHOP, our editors put their years of know-how to work in order to pick products (from skin care to self care and beyond) they’re betting you’ll love. While our editors independently select these products, making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. Happy shopping! Explore the SHOP Lovely and a lil’ lop-sided. Demure and adorable. Sensitive and supple. These might be the words that first come to mind when I think of my vulva. But given how prone I am to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, finicky also deserves a place on my downstairs…
☀️ From their go-to breakfasts to their meditative moments, Morning Person explores the get-ready routines of your favorite people. ☀️ SEE MORE Melissa Ben-Ishay is a mom, baker, businesswoman, and New York Times-bestselling author. If you’re unfamiliar with her name, you probably know about her sweet treat business—Baked by Melissa. Her signature mini cupcakes can be devoured in one bite, with dozens of delicious flavors to choose from. Here, the 40-year-old walks us through her favorite way to start the day in her Manhattan apartment before she heads to the bakery to brainstorm her next delectable idea. She’s up bright…
When it comes to a solid abs workout, simplicity can go a long way. With just a mat, your body, and a can-do attitude, you can fire up your midsection, working practically every muscle in your core—with scissor kicks. You lie on your back, brace your core, and lift and lower your legs. (Your gams look like a pair of scissors opening and closing, hence the name.) Not only do scissor kicks build some serious core strength, they also help improve posture, balance, and even get your heart rate up for a sneaky cardio boost. And that’s just a preview…
With the Well+Good SHOP, our editors put their years of know-how to work in order to pick products (from skin care to self care and beyond) they’re betting you’ll love. While our editors independently select these products, making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. Happy shopping! Explore the SHOP I’ll be the first to admit it: Cooking has never been my strong suit. I used to joke that my favorite kitchen appliance was my phone—because, let’s be real, hitting the delivery button after a long day is just too easy (love you, Chipotle). But as the…