Health / Body check
You want to feel terrific, exude positivity and bloom with wellbeing. But not if it all turns into a massive mission. That’s why we love the tweaks – they’re small, they’re easy, they’re effective and they come straight from the pros.
“A fit life is about more than sweating it out in the gym, and I say this as someone who runs fitness studios!” – Pip Black
Cracking the code for good health sometimes feels about as complicated as breaking into Star Wars’ Death Star, and yet some people just seem to get it. So we went directly to the experts and asked them to reveal the key things they do to stay at the top of their game.
The result? These genius tips! As you’ll see, they don’t cost a fortune, require a personal trainer or involve eating unpronounceable ingredients five times a day. It’s all just straightforward advice that works. Simple and smart at the same time? Now that feels good!
While cardio has long worn the fitness crown for heart benefits, strength training, such as squatting and weights, is just as essential. “Strength and muscle mass are two top biomarkers ( biological measures) of health,” says Joslyn Thompson Rule, a Nike Master Trainer and online coach. Strength training has been found to counter diabetes and arthritis, help maintain muscle mass and boost metabolic rate. Now steal it
“To squat, stand with your feet a little wider than hip-width apart. Keeping even weight through your feet, squat down as if sitting on a chair, then stand back up, squeezing your bum tight at the top,” says Joslyn. Rocking the squat already? Add squat jumps – these boost heart rate and stamina, challenge your co-ordination and provide serious kilojoule burn.
With over 50% of women suffering from adult acne, a clear complexion is the holy grail of beauty. Skincare requires a holistic approach, but one vitamin could give you a boost. “Vitamin B3 controls sebum production and reduces inflammation,” says consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto, who suggests a supplement of 750mg.
Now steal it
“Good skin is about healthy living,” says Dr Mahto. “I cleanse, rinse with micellar water, use SPF, but I’ll break out if I’m stressed or haven’t slept, so I do yoga and meditate.” The one product she swears by? “Retinoid cream at night. It helps remove pigmentation and fine lines, and I don’t think you’d find a female dermatologist who doesn’t use one.”