3 ways to freshen up your fitness routine for spring

3 ways to freshen up your fitness routine for spring

Remember those health and fitness goals you were so excited about on January 1st? If they’re starting to feel like a distant memory, don’t worry, lots of people find that New Year enthusiasm fades after a few weeks.

But here’s the good news: spring is just around the corner and is the perfect time to rekindle that spark. With the days getting longer and IronPanda offering the perfect gym clothing to get us motivated, let’s turn those forgotten resolutions into reality.

Need a little helping hand to get moving? Then here are 3 ways you can freshen up your fitness routine for spring.

1. Treat yourself to a new fitness ‘fit

There’s something about putting on new workout gear that really helps put you in the mood to actually, you know, workout!

So give yourself a bit of a boost to inspire you to hit the gym or head out for a run with some new bits of fitness clothing from IronPanda. They have a great range of gym shirts made with super soft cotton and fun slogans across the front. I really love this ‘Me Vs Me’ t shirt in particular, it’s perfect for helping you keep perspective in the gym that you’re only in competition with yourself and no one else.

I also really love the range of workout hoodies from IronPanda which are all perfect for this time of year when there is still a bit of a chill in the air and you know you’ll want something comfy to throw on after your workout. They’re made with 100% cotton and are soft, lightweight, and breathable. These hoodies also all have the same kinds of slogans on them as the shirts, which is great if you love to show a bit of personality through what you wear at the gym.

2. Embrace the outdoors

If one of the reasons your fitness resolutions have gone out the window is because you’re just not really a fan of the gym, then try taking your workouts outdoors instead. Swap the treadmill for trails or the stationary bike for a real one.

Outdoor workouts not only provide fresh air and vitamin D but also give your mental health a real boost. You could also try outdoor yoga to connect with nature or take your HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) session to the park. The change of scenery may well make your workouts more enjoyable so you’ll stick with them and make them a real part of your routine.

3. Mix up your routine

If you’ve tried to start a new workout routine this year and it’s just not working for you, or you have managed to stick to something but your enthusiasm for it is starting to fade, then now’s the time to mix things up and try something new.

Introduce new types of workouts to kick-start your motivation, challenge different muscle groups, and improve your overall fitness. If you’re a runner, try incorporating strength training to build muscle and prevent injury. If you’re a yogi, add some cardio to enhance your stamina and heart health. Mixing up your routine not only prevents plateaus but also keeps your workouts exciting and challenging.

So there you go. Three ways you can freshen up your fitness routine this spring. Which do you think you’ll try first?

The bounce of health how outdoor play shapes a healthier future

The bounce of health: how outdoor play shapes a healthier future

In a world increasingly dominated by screens and indoor activities, the importance of outdoor play in the development of healthy habits for children cannot be overstated. Outdoor activities, particularly those involving physical play, offer a plethora of benefits that contribute to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of children.

In this light-hearted exploration, we’ll dive into how activities like bouncing on a trampoline or playing tag in the backyard can significantly impact the lifestyle choices and habits of our younger generation. 

The magic of movement: physical health benefits 

Stronger bodies, brighter smiles 

The first and most obvious benefit of outdoor play is the enhancement of physical health. Activities like jumping on a 12ft trampoline provide an excellent cardiovascular workout, which strengthens the heart and improves overall stamina.

Not only does this kind of exercise promote muscle development and better coordination, but it’s also a fun way to encourage kids to be active regularly. 

A breath of fresh air: boosting immune systems 

Outdoor play also exposes children to fresh air and sunlight, which are essential for a healthy immune system.

Sunlight provides Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone development and immune function. Regular exposure to the outdoor environment can help children build a stronger resistance to infections and diseases. 

The joy of play: mental and emotional perks 

Stress busters and happiness boosters 

Engaging in outdoor activities like playing on a 14ft trampoline can significantly reduce stress and anxiety in children. Physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.

This hormonal boost can lead to improved mood, better sleep patterns, and a general sense of well-being. 

Creativity and imagination unleashed 

Outdoor play is not just about physical exertion; it also provides a canvas for imagination and creativity.

When children engage in unstructured play, they often invent games, make up rules, or imagine scenarios. This form of play fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and cognitive flexibility. 

Social skills and teamwork: learning to play well with others 

The art of making friends 

Outdoor play often involves interaction with other children, which is essential for developing social skills. Activities that require teamwork, like group sports or shared play equipment, teach children about cooperation, communication, and empathy. 

Building confidence and leadership 

As children navigate the challenges and triumphs of outdoor games, they also build self-esteem and leadership skills.

Successfully mastering a new skill, like a flip on a trampoline, can give children a sense of accomplishment and confidence. 

Safety and moderation: balancing the risks and rewards 

Safe play is happy play 

While outdoor play is beneficial, it’s also crucial to ensure safety. Proper supervision, age-appropriate play equipment, and teaching children about play safety can reduce the risk of injuries. 

Everything in moderation 

Balancing outdoor play with other activities and responsibilities is important. While the benefits of outdoor play are numerous, it should complement other aspects of a child’s life, such as schoolwork, indoor play, and family time. 

Conclusion: The lifelong impact of play 

The influence of outdoor play on developing healthy habits extends far beyond childhood. The patterns set during these early years can shape attitudes towards physical activity and health for a lifetime.

By encouraging outdoor play, we’re not just giving our children a fun afternoon; we’re helping them build a foundation for a healthy, active, and joyful life. 

So, the next time your child heads out to bounce on their trampoline or run around the garden, remember that these simple joys are building blocks for a healthier, happier future. 

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

Explore the world of womens gym leggings

Explore the world of women’s gym leggings!

Women’s gym leggings have now become a staple for fitness enthusiasts and fashion-conscious individuals. These leggings offer comfort, flexibility and style, making them a popular choice for various activities from yoga to high-intensity workouts. In this guide we’ll explore the different types of women’s gym leggings available in the market and look at how they meet different needs and preferences.

1. Classic high-waisted leggings

Classic high-waisted leggings are a real favourite among women for good reason.

These leggings feature a high-rise waistband that sits comfortably above the hips and gives excellent support and coverage. The waistband is often designed with a wide elastic band and a fold-over design to prevent slipping during workouts.

Classic high-waisted leggings offer a flattering silhouette thanks to the way they accentuate the waist while smoothing out the midsection. They are well made and suitable for a wide range of workouts but are best for yoga, Pilates and weightlifting. Moreover these leggings often come in various colours and patterns to allow you to express your individual style.

2. Compression leggings

Compression leggings are specially designed to provide muscle support and improve circulation during physical activity. These leggings are constructed with tight-knit and stretchy fabrics to apply gentle pressure to the legs. The compression technology helps reduce muscle fatigue, improves recovery, and may even enhance athletic performance.

These leggings are ideal for high-intensity workouts. This include long runs and sports activities. They provide a snug fit that hugs the body’s contours and offer both support and comfort. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts turn to compression leggings for their performance-enhancing benefits.

3. Capri leggings

Capri leggings are also known as cropped leggings. They’re a shorter version of traditional gym leggings and typically end just below the knee or mid-calf. This design make them an excellent choice for warm-weather workouts. These also perfect for those who prefer more breathability.

Capri leggings offer the same flexibility and comfort as full-length leggings, but they give a bit more airflow. They are perfect for yoga, cycling, and casual gym sessions. Capri leggings come in a variety of styles including plain colours, patterns, and some even include mesh inserts for added ventilation.

4. High-rise bootcut leggings

High-rise bootcut leggings combine the classic high-waisted design with a flared leg opening, resembling the look of bootcut pants. These leggings are not only fashionable but very functional. They offer a flattering silhouette, with extra room at the ankle for those who prefer a more relaxed fit.

High-rise bootcut leggings are incredibly versatile and can be worn for various activities. But lots of people wear them for yoga and dance classes as well as on casual outings. They often come in both solid colours and prints which allows you to choose a style that suits your mood and preference.

5. Seamless leggings

Seamless leggings have gained popularity in the last few years for their exceptional comfort and minimalistic design. Unlike traditional leggings with visible seams they are seamlessly crafted using a single piece of fabric which helps eliminate chafing and irritation.

These leggings offer a second-skin feel and also provide a smooth and snug fit that moves with your body. Seamless leggings are an excellent choice for high-intensity workouts, reducing the risk of friction-related discomfort. Many seamless leggings also feature moisture-wicking technology, which keeps you dry during intense activities.

6. Pocket leggings

Pocket leggings have now become a practical choice for those who want to carry their essentials during workouts. These leggings feature discreet pockets on the sides or waistband to give you a secure place to store keys, phones or small accessories.

Pocket leggings are a convenient option for runners and hikers and are perfect for anyone who prefers to keep their hands free while workout. With these kinds of leggings you can enjoy your training without worrying about where to stow your belongings.

7. Mesh-panelled leggings

Mesh-panelled leggings are designed to offer enhanced breathability and a touch of style. These leggings feature mesh inserts or panels strategically placed along the legs or waistband, allowing air to circulate and keeping you cool during intense workouts.

The combination of moisture-wicking fabric and mesh panels makes these leggings ideal for activities that generate a lot of sweat, such as cardio workouts and hot yoga. They offer the finest blend of functionality and fashion.

8. Scrunch butt leggings

Scrunch butt leggings are designed to accentuate the glutes and create a lifted appearance. They feature a unique stitching pattern in the back that gathers and scrunches the fabric, enhancing the shape of the buttocks.

These leggings are a popular choice for individuals who want to emphasize their curves and achieve a more sculpted look. Scrunch butt leggings are often chosen for strength training and lower body workouts.

The world of women’s gym leggings offers a good range of options to cater to different needs and preferences. So you can find the perfect pair of leggings for you whether you prioritize comfort, performance, style, or sustainability.

So take your time to find your perfect fit and see how it elevates your workout wardrobe, boosts your confidence, and motivates you to get and stay active.

How support child mental wellbeing

How to support your child’s mental wellbeing

As a parent, you will always want the best for your child, which includes going to great lengths to provide the best care and support for them.

Along with their wellbeing, comes their mental health, something that is an essential part of their overall health. Below is a blog advised by this independent school in Surrey, that explores some effective ways to support your child’s mental well-being, ensuring they grow up with emotional resilience and equipped to face the challenges of life. 

Keep communication open

When it comes to supporting your child with their mental health, it is so important to ensure that the lines of communication are always open in your household.

Mental health is like any other illness, it begins small and grows. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and opinions, instead of holding them in, as this is what can lead to disorders such as anxiety or depression.

Ensure your home is a judgement free space, one in which your child feels deeply loved and heard, as this will make them feel comfortable enough to share their concerns. 

A good routine

An individual with a bad routine, is more likely to fall into the patterns of depression. To help your child avoid this, establish a good daily routine for them.

This includes a realistic bed time where they get an adequate amount of sleep every night, exercise, nutritious meals and time to relax and take part in things that help them release stress.

A balanced routine contributes to their overall physical and emotional wellbeing, which helps to improve their mental state. 

Supporting your child’s mental wellbeing is an ongoing process that requires a lot of attention, care, patience and understanding.

By ensuring communication is open and establishing a good routine, you help to lay the foundation needed for emotional resilience. Remember, each child is different, so adapt your approach according to your little ones needs.  

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

How to prepare your body for pregnancy

How to prepare your body for pregnancy

Are you thinking about getting pregnant but have no clue where to start?

Don’t worry as there are many women across the world who are in the exact same position as you. Whilst the act of falling pregnant is something that is taught and discussed, not many mention the conditions that your body should be in for a healthy pregnancy.

From what you should eat to what you should avoid, there are so many wives’ tales you could come across that may end up confusing you.

Below is a simple guide advised by this clinic that offers IVF treatment, which outlines easy changes you can make to prepare your body for pregnancy. 

Avoid alcohol

Whilst a glass of wine here and there may seem harmless, it is extremely important that you aren’t ingesting any alcohol whilst you are preparing your body for pregnancy.

This is because alcohol can affect your fertility and lower the chances of conceiving. Drinking during the pregnancy can also lead to serious problems with your baby, such as premature birth, so it is best to avoid it altogether.

A healthy diet

Eating a balanced diet is something that you should already be practicing, however, can make a significant difference to the health and wellbeing of your baby.

Be sure to choose a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as lean proteins and whole grains. Whilst it can be tempting, try your best to stay away from processed fatty foods.

Caffeine intake should also be monitored with no more than 2 cups of coffee a day.

Exercise

Once again, exercise is important for everyone to complete on a regular basis. However, it is even more important to focus on before and during pregnancy. This is because women who are overweight may find themselves struggling with medical issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Likewise, women who are underweight may struggle with hormonal imbalances that can lower the chances of falling pregnant.

It can definitely be stressful when trying to conceive as there is no fixed timescale, with each pregnancy being different to the next.

Alongside the tips above, be sure to get in contact with your doctor to discuss your vitals and any underlying issues that may need attention beforehand. Best of luck!

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

4 reasons to give shaving soap bars a try

4 reasons to give shaving soap bars a try

Shaving soap bars have been around for centuries, and are becoming an increasingly popular choice for those looking for a pleasant shaving experience.

Despite the rise in popularity of shaving creams, gels, and foam, many people still prefer the simplicity of shaving soap bars – let’s take a look at four reasons why you should consider giving shaving soap bars a try, if you haven’t already.

1. Lather quality

One of the most popular advantages of shave bars is the quality of the lather that they produce. Unlike shaving creams and gels, which can sometimes feel too thick or too runny, shaving soap bars produce a really creamy, rich lather that helps to lubricate and protect your skin when you shave. 

This can result in a smoother, closer shave, as well as reduced skin irritation and razor burn. You can either use your fingers, or ideally, a shaving brush to raise the lather and apply it to your face or body.

2. Eco-friendliness

Another advantage of shaving soap bars is how eco-friendly they tend to be. Shaving soaps come in a solid form, and as a result, they’re generally packaged in paper, without any of the often excessive plastic packaging typical of liquid shaving gels.

This makes them a much more sustainable and environmentally friendly option, when compared to ‘traditional’ shaving gels. 

Also, many shaving soap bars are made with natural and even organic ingredients, so you can feel good about using a product that is better for you and the environment, and likely hasn’t been tested for safety on animals like a lot of modern beauty products are.

3. Long-lasting

Unlike modern shaving creams, which can run out surprisingly quickly and require frequent replacements, shaving soap bars are incredibly long-lasting. A single bar can last for many months, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run. 

Additionally, because shaving soap bars are solid, they are much easier to pack and take with you when you travel, meaning you can always have your favourite shaving soap on hand. The added bonus is that they literally can’t spill all over your bag!

4. Range of scents

Finally, shaving soap bars offer a level of customisation that other shaving products simply cannot match. With so many different types and smells of shaving soap available, you can choose the one that best fits your personal preferences and skin type. 

You can often also find shaving bars that are made using entirely natural ingredients, including ones with scents made from essential oils. Whether you prefer a traditional, musky scent or something lighter and fresher, there’s a perfect shaving soap bar option out there for you. 

In our opinion, shaving soap bars are a great alternative for those looking to up their shaving experience. From their superior lather quality, to their eco-friendliness and long-lasting nature, shaving soap bars offer a number of advantages over traditional shaving products.

So, if you’re looking for a new and improved shaving experience, it’s time to consider giving shaving soap bars a try.

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post

Why a dog walking service is good for you and your dog

Why a dog walking service is good for you and your dog

Recent research suggests that 27% of UK adults have a dog right now. They’re the most popular pet in the country, narrowly edging out cats. There are many reasons to have a pet dog, but it’s really important you know how to look after them. 

Part of this involves walking your dog as regularly as required. For some, this is easier said than done. You may struggle to find the time to walk your dog, meaning they don’t get the exercise they need.

Dog walking services are here to offer a solution to this problem. Instead of walking your dog, you can get someone to do it for you. It’s a simple idea, yet it’s good for both you and your dog.

Your dog gets the exercise it needs

If you’re unable to walk your dog, a dog walking service ensures it gets the exercise it needs. You might be at work all day, meaning your poor pooch misses out on walks. Hiring someone to walk your dog means they get to go outside whenever required. 

This is super important for their health; dogs can put on weight and suffer from depression if they’re under-walked. At the same time, you can work without worrying about your dog anymore. 

You can carry on with your day

There are many reasons you might be unable to walk your dog as often as needed. As mentioned above, work tends to be the biggest problem.

But, if you have a family, you may need to dedicate lots of hours to looking after your kids or doing all sorts of daily chores. Walking your dog means you can’t tick everything off your to-do list, adding to your stress. 

Thankfully, a dog walking service benefits you massively. You can carry on with your day, ensuring that everything is ticked off your list. It just makes life less stressful and hectic when you know someone else can take care of your dog while you’re super busy. 

Your dog gets to meet new friends

Dog walkers will usually walk multiple dogs at once – unless you specify otherwise. This is wonderful for your puppy as it gets to meet lots of new furry friends. They can hang out with other dogs on every walk, meaning they never get lonely. 

Funnily enough, it’s better for dogs to be walked in large groups as it feels more natural to them. They get transported back to the days when their ancestors were wolves roaming around in packs.

It gives you peace of mind knowing that your dog is being looked after while also getting to interact with other dogs every day. 

All things considered, dog walking services are brilliant for both parties here. You don’t have to worry about your busy lifestyle being interrupted, causing more stress in your life. Your dog gets the exercise it needs while enjoying friendly walks with loads of other furry faces. It’s a win-win for everyone, which is why Ready Freddy Dog Walks is more than happy to walk your dog for you. 

Get in touch with Ready Freddy Dog Walks team today to learn more about their dog-walking service and how they take care of your best friend.

Disclosure: this is a collaborative post