Posts tagged with "gym"

REEBOK- THE BLAST via 360 MAGAZINE

Reebok’s “The Blast” x Extras Collection

In spring of 1996, Reebok introduced its Mobius Collection, a dramatic group of high-performance athletic shoes that share a unique design theme of continuous motion. Mobius would create a visual frequency across the brand that made a statement on courts, fields, and in gyms across the world.

One of the most polarizing ‘silhouettes in this late ‘90s collection was “The Blast,” a disruptive basketball shoe described by the brand in unique fashion: “The Blast’s positive/negative asymmetrical design brings the left and right foot together in a way no other shoe has.” For 2023, over 25 years later, “The Blast” remains one of the most compelling and historic basketball sneakers to ever hit the hardwood.

“The Blast” ($160, GZ9519) officially returns March 3 from Reebok.comHibbet, and Snipes, among other select retailers.


Today Reebok announces its latest inline collection – Extras – featuring platform versions of its beloved Club C and Classic Leather models.

The Reebok ‘Extras’ collection was designed for those who approach their style with attitude and make an entrance when they walk into every room. The line includes two new women’s classics silhouettes– the Club C Extra and Classic Leather SP Extra – with the most lightweight platform soles to come from the brand making the shoes ultra-comfortable and incredibly wearable.

Both the Club C Extra and Classic Leather SP Extra take design cues from the OG models and include enhanced features to bring the shoes to the next level. The Club C Extra is an evolution of previous platform silhouettes featuring the highest sole ever on the Club C and an exaggerated design on the upper with multiple overlays. Utilizing a new, 3D sculpted midsole and rubber rippled outsole the Classic Leather SP Extra is the most eye-catching Classic Leather silhouette yet.

The Club C Extra (IE6679) and Classic Leather SP Extra (HQ7196) are currently available in white and various colorways on Reebok.com/platforms for $90 MSRP. Both silhouettes will be available in additional colorways throughout the year.

Wikipedia | Tik Tok | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Ten of the Best Gift Ideas for Manly Men

A gym membership is not the only thing you can gift a manly man. They might not go for the usual presents either, but a masculine friend will surely appreciate the generous thought. Whether a monthly beer subscription or handy dumbells, a manly man would get a kick-off of either.  

A present for such a man needs to match their taste, so look for things that scream tough, macho, and rugged! 

If their birthday is near, or you want to brighten up their day, there are tons of alpha-male ideas men would enjoy. If you’re planning your shopping, here are some testosterone-zing gift suggestions. 

Top 10 Macho Presents

If you have a manly man in your life that needs a gift that suits his daily habits, check out some options on our list below. 

Scotch-Infused Toothpicks 

Scotch is considered one of the manliest alcoholic beverages. And if you’re male friend is someone who constantly uses toothpicks, then we have the gift for you!

Why not buy your rugged pal scotch-infused toothpicks? 

These have a delicious smoky flavor of pines, pear, and complex caramel – be careful; they are not edible. 

The top brands use a 200-year-old scotch with Irish origins. Manufactured from quality forest wood, these big picks release strong flavor from a single bite. Once you buy them, a manly man will always have one glued to his mouth.

Upgraded Vape Pen and Case 

A man doesn’t have to smoke Cuban cigars to be manly. Sometimes there’s nothing more masculine than vaping from a gorgeous-looking vape pen. 

You can surprise him with a new vape mod if he is an avid vaper. There are numerous imaginative vape designs – from wooden cases, steel pens, and leather coverages to different PG and VG ratios. 

Go online and shop from a reputable vape shop – your vaping friend will love it!

International Hot Sauce Gift Box 

Most men love the taste of hot spices burning their taste buds. So if you offer them a package of the best hot sauces from the world, how can they say no?

A gift box with every country’s hottest sauce will give them a chance to glance at the local cuisine. From delicious flavors from Ethiopia, Virginia, Kerala, and more, a hot sauce gift box will satisfy his need for something spicy.

As a box full of flavor and heat, he will have something to enjoy with every meal.

Adventure Essentials Survival Kit 

If your manly friend loves to hike or mountain climb, an adventure survival kit is just the thing for him. With this simple present, you can not only gift them something they like but also show them that you care for their safety. 

The essentials kit has all the survival trinkets for a fantastic adventure. These include a flashlight, purification tablets, waterproof matches, military swiss knives, trail markers, a wire saw, and a compass. It all comes packed in a small canister that is light as air. 

A Magic Stone Grill Cleaner 

Every man loves to barbecue – it’s one of the manliest afternoon activities. However, almost all of them hate cleaning the grill afterward.

If you buy them a magic stone grill cleaner, they won’t have to do all the pesky scrubbing with soap. All it takes is to add some water, and the stone will take care of the rest. The miracle gadget cleans layers from previous cookouts leaving the grates shiny as if they are new.

And if they worry that cleaning the grill will leave a soapy aftertaste, set the mind at ease – the magic stone grill cleaner won’t do anything to influence the taste. 

Fighter Pilot Experience 

Your manly friend might not be an air force soldier, but they can experience what it’s like to be one. You can purchase a fighter pilot experience through Air Combat and see whether your friend is manly enough to endure soaring sky-high with two experienced pilots by his side. 

The plane he will board is a fighter jet, and he will experience tricks like barrel rolls and loops. All this will be done while flying at the ultimate speed.

Globe-shaped Mini Bar From 16th Century 

If your guy friend enjoys the occasional sip of a quality beverage and has a knack for geography, then a 16th-century globe-shaped mini bar is the perfect gift

This vintage globe compartment can be filled with wine, whiskey, and eight different kinds of glasses to drink from. There is even a smaller shelf on the bottom that could work as both a resting place for glasses and taller bottles. 

CIA Survival Training Course 

One way to make your male friend feel like they’re a 007 agent is by singing them up for a CIA survival course. This course teaches what it’s like to train like a super spy and what it takes to be a CIA agent. It is only two days, showing everything from lock-picking to escaping from duct tape. 

Personalized Liquor Barrel 

Every tough guy likes the kick a good bottle of whiskey gives, and you can make them experience this feeling every day if you buy them a whole barrel. A personalized homemade moonshine barrel with your friend’s name will make the liquor taste even better. 

What’s more, this barrel can also work as an ornament. 

 Muhamed Ali-Signed Boxing Gloves and Punching Bag 

If your friend loves boxing and is a guy-junkie, then gift them a set of punching bags and gloves signed by none other than Muhamed Ali. No rush to the gym when they can train at home with the equipment you bought! 

Conclusion 

Many things can make a manly man happy, and these above are a few. Check what your manly friend likes and see how it can be presented through a gift. 

After all, as long as it’s a thoughtful gift, you’ll never go wrong!

UFC Father’s Day

UFC GYM®, the first major brand extension of UFC®, will encourage dads to focus on their fitness with a complimentary personal trainer session or recovery treatment in celebration of Father’s Day. Members and nonmembers  may redeem the offer at select UFC GYM® and UFC FIT® locations across the country from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. exclusively on Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 19.

All fathers will have access to a complimentary personal training session with a certified personal trainer who will review the unique goals, lifestyle and experience of the guest before coaching them through a one-on-one workout. Dads who choose to use one of UFC GYM and UFC FIT’s recovery services pre- or post-workout will have the choice between compression massage therapy, cryotherapy or percussion massage therapy. Select locations also offer red light therapy. Amenities vary by location, inquire at the location for details.

UFC GYM and UFC FIT offer MMA-inspired group fitness classes, such as Boxing and Kickboxing Conditioning. Signature studio-quality group fitness classes, including High Octane, Kickass Kick and HIIT, are also available. Other amenities at the premier fitness facilities include group fitness studios, weight rooms, bag rooms, robust cardio and strength training equipment, sauna rooms, full-service locker rooms, an Octagon® at select locations, Kids Club, ArmBar Café and more.

For a complete list of participating locations in states across the U.S., please visit https://bit.ly/UFCGYMFathersDay.

UFC GYM® was the first to unite the benefits of MMA with fitness. The brand’s TRAIN DIFFERENT® approach provides members with the ultimate fitness experience and programming that secures results for all ages and training levels. With 160 locations opened and 500 additional locations currently in development globally, UFC GYM® has revolutionized the fitness industry and positively impacted countless lives worldwide. For more information, please visit www.ufcgym.com or www.ufcfit.com.

ABOUT UFC GYM®

UFC GYM® is the first major brand extension of UFC®, the world’s premier MMA organization, created in alliance with New Evolution Ventures™ (NeV), developers of many of the world’s most successful fitness brands. As the first to unite the benefits of MMA with fitness, the brand is not what you expect, and more than you can imagine. UFC GYM’s TRAIN DIFFERENT® approach provides members with the ultimate fitness experience and programming that secures results for all ages and training levels. With 160 locations opened and 1,000 additional locations currently in development globally, UFC GYM has revolutionized the fitness industry and positively impacted countless lives worldwide. In addition to its corporate-owned clubs, UFC GYM offers the opportunity to own and operate a franchise domestically and internationally through the UFC GYM® or UFC FIT® model. For franchise information, contact franchiseinfo@ufcgym.com or visit UFCGYMfranchise.com. For more information, please visit UFCGYM.com or UFCFIT.com. Follow UFC GYM on Instagram and Twitter @UFCGYM, Facebook.com/UFCGYM, and youtube.com/UFCGYM.

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 198 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

The Sports Metaverse

The Sports Metaverse, the world’s first virtual world specifically focused on sports, today announced a signed partnership with UFC icon, Amanda Nunes, to offer personal training in her metaverse gym. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is a US-based, mixed martial arts (MMA) company, of which, Nunes is a two division UFC champion and considered to be the greatest female MMA fighter of all time. This partnership inaugurates the launch of The Sports Metavserse landsale, where users can trade NFTs, buy land, interact with iconic sportspeople, and visit stadiums. The pre-sale is currently ongoing and will be opened to the public in June.

The Sports Metaverse is a digital world devoted solely to sports. The most prominent sports stars, brands, and clubs are united together in one place. The Sports Metaverse is being built by SportsIcon and industry veterans from Sony, Doom, Playstation Home, and Nvidia. 

Nunes is building her personal gym in the Sports Metaverse. She’ll appear in 3D and coach users on how to fight:

“It always was a dream to have a gym. You want to be in control of your stuff, you want to train the way you want. You want to be able to share with the fans. I’m building my own gym in the real world and now I have one in the metaverse. It’s very exciting! I can’t wait to put all my posters in my own gym! I’ve made a lot of history in MMA and I can’t wait to have all my pictures and memories of these moments in my gym, so every time I walk in I have a good vibe and be able to train to do even more good things in the sport. I can’t wait for the next step in my life!” Nunes commented. 

The Sports Metaverse is offering land for sale in the metaverse in Lion Lands and the Sports City, the prime real estate of the Sports Metaverse and one of seven islands. Users can visit a sports casino and a stadium, watch live sports, socialize, Play2Earn, acquire NFTs with sports stars, get a luxury fan cave to display them, and can interact with Amanda Nunes. Five companies have already pre-bought land. They include Phat Fish Fantasy, Own the Moment, ThriveFantasy, Beyond The Game Network, and Press Sports.

SportsIcon CEO and Co-Founder Chris Worsey commented:
‘We are delighted to welcome Amanda Nunes and the five sports brands to the Sports Metaverse. Amanda’s gym and the training she will offer are unique. We are the only metaverse volumetrically capturing icons like this, enabling consumers to interact with top athletes in a completely new way. This is groundbreaking stuff and we can’t wait for the public land sale in June.’

Besides Amanda Nunes and Romelu Lukaku, a series of sports stars and brands are lined up for The Sports Metaverse, with agreements underway with leading athletes from soccer, tennis, MMA, basketball, and baseball. A public land sale for the Sports Metaverse will take place in June. Brands can currently apply for the private land pre-sale and users for the white list via the Sports Metaverse website. 

For more information visit Sports Metaverse

Five Tips for Starting a Gluten-Free Diet

In 2022, consumers have a large selection of gluten-free options, improving their quality of life. For individuals diagnosed with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivities (NCGS) in past decades, their dietary selection was minimal. Whether you live in a region with a vast selection of gluten-free options or a limited variety, you may utilize these five tips to effectively start your diet.

Many individuals struggle to maintain a celiac-friendly diet because of limited awareness and education. When consumers increase their recognition of gluten-free labels and naturally allergy-safe foods, they can achieve a healthy diet without stress. Before evaluating the five tips, individuals may benefit from exploring gluten allergies and their physical impacts.

What Are Gluten Allergies?

Celiac disease results in an immune reaction when one’s intestines come in contact with gluten. The physical response damages the small intestine over time, causing malabsorption. Intestinal degradation causes anemia, weight loss, bloating, fatigue, and diarrhea.

The disease may also cause osteoporosis, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, migraines, and fatigue. Other individuals with the condition experience numbness of the feet, legs, and hands, as well as joint pain. People effectively reduce their symptoms over time by consuming a strict gluten-free diet.

Individuals also treat NCGS with gluten-free diets. The illness is similar to celiac disease, except the condition is non-detectable by certain testing. People with NCGS experience brain fog, abdominal pain, migraines, chronic fatigue, bloating, joint pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

A team of researchers at Columbia University identified the effects of gluten on the intestinal health of individuals with NCGS. They discovered similar immune responses and stomach cell destruction associated with consumption. Researchers believe the reaction may relate to a different component in gluten that causes its lack of appearance on celiac tests.

Scientists look at individuals’ reactions to amylase-trypsin inhibitors (ATIs) and fructans when assessing the cause of NCGS symptoms. Understanding the severity of gluten allergies and their probable causes can support informed dietary choices. The first step to starting a successful gluten-free diet is deepening your understanding of the allergen.

1. Expand Your Gluten Education

Gluten is a protein found in various grains like wheat and rye. It is a naturally occurring part of many plants, and researchers discovered a way to extract the protein. Many processed foods contain gluten as a binding agent, holding them together and adding texture.

The protein is present in bread and pasta because it comes from barley, wheat, spelt, rye, durum, emmer, farro, triticale, and other grains. Some naturally gluten-free grains include rice, quinoa, and oats. It is important to look out for specifically gluten-free oats at the store because some products experience cross-contamination.

If oats grow in a field with wheat or rye, they may receive a coating of gluten, decreasing the safety of their consumption by individuals with allergies. When oats are processed in the same facilities as gluten-containing grains, they also may experience cross-contamination. Remaining aware of the naturally celiac-friendly foods and the risk of contamination supports a successful diet.

2. Identify Sneaky Sources of Gluten

Another beneficial tip for starting your gluten-free diet is remaining aware of the sneaky sources of allergens. Medications and supplements often use gluten as an external coating or filler. Before consuming a new pill, it is important to contact your doctor to evaluate its dietary safety.

Processed meat, poultry, and fish often contain wheat as a filler or bast. Most deli meats, hot dogs, and sausages contain gluten, making them not suitable for consumption by individuals with celiac disease or NCGS. Some meat substitutes also use the protein as a filler, creating dietary challenges.

Imitation seafood, like the crab inside sushi rolls, and seitan, always contain gluten. Some veggie burgers also use wheat and other grains to bind the other ingredients. Many sauces additionally utilize wheat as a thickening agent.

Soy sauce is a common culprit of accidental gluten exposure. Restaurants also regularly add barley to miso, making it not suitable for gluten-free consumers. Fortunately, there are many safe alternatives to wheat-containing foods, like tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

3. Plan Ahead When Eating Out

The worst feeling is showing up to a dinner out with friends only to realize you cannot eat anything on the menu. Researching a menu before attending a restaurant is the best way to avoid dietary mishaps. Some eateries have designated gluten-free menus whereas others may have zero options.

Calling a restaurant ahead of time is the best way to ensure your ability to safely eat there. Some chefs may even encourage individuals to bring their own gluten-free bread, flour, or pasta to accommodate their dietary restrictions. Individuals can also plan ahead when eating at a friend’s house by bringing a celiac-friendly option.

4. Convert Your Favorite Home-Cooked Meals to Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Italian dishes often contain gluten, individuals can substitute wheat components with chickpea, almond, or rice flour. Consumers with celiac disease and NCGS may make their favorite dishes like pizza using gluten-free substitutes. One pizza recipe uses rice and tapioca flour instead of wheat to create the crust.

It also utilizes xanthan gum to keep the dough together, binding it as gluten would. The crust is also dairy-free and egg-free, making it a suitable option for vegans and lactose-intolerant individuals as well. When making celiac-friendly pizza, it is important to prepare the dough away from wheat-containing dishes to limit cross-contamination.

5. Beware of Cross-Contamination

The final tip for starting a gluten-free diet revolves around cross-contamination. When individuals cook celiac-friendly foods in a wheat-containing kitchen, the meal may come in contact with gluten. Sharing cooking surfaces, utensils, and containers with wheat-containing items can create unsafe dishes for consumers with celiac disease and NCGS.

Flour containing wheat can remain airborne in bakeries for hours, increasing the rate of cross-contamination. Before ordering food from a restaurant or eating at a friend’s house, ensure they have a celiac-friendly kitchen. Many Individuals designate a section of their kitchens to gluten-free meal prep to decrease the risk of cross-contamination.

The Benefits of Eating Gluten-Free

Many individuals benefit from eating a gluten-free diet, especially consumers with celiac disease and NCGS. When you eliminate gluten from your diet, you preserve your small intestinal lining. The diet also decreases abdominal discomfort, migraines, brain fog, and rashes, helping individuals live a normal life without adverse symptoms.

Rita Azar for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Apple Music Fitness DJ Mix Series

From Apple Music comes their very own DJ Mix series; a special space where all artists, DJs and producers can come together to produce an exclusive fitness experience, only on Apple Music.

Everyone has a distinguished taste for their workout music, and the Fitness Mix series allows artists to customize their own tracks to create an unparalleled experience for listeners.

The Fitness Mix series is separated into four differing subcategories, which includes Run, Ride, Gym and Yoga. Each mix is solely produced to be worked out to.

The first set of the Fitness Mix series includes mixes from Aluna (Ride), Loud Luxury (Run), Valentino Khan (Gym) and Above and Beyond (Yoga).

Detailed descriptions on what listeners can look forward to in the first round of mixes is featured below.

Aluna: Ride

The first Apple Music Fitness Mix for cycling showcases the British electronic producer and singer Aluna (formerly one half of AlunaGeorge). Aluna set out to encapsulate her DJ point-of-view in the mix, styling the mix for cyclists. “I take whichever club or festival I’m playing all around the world with my collection of global dance music,” Aluna tells Apple Music. “This time, it’s on a bike.” Crafted specifically with a cycle set in mind, the mix flows from a comfortable warm-up to a powerful set of climbs and sprints. Eventually, Aluna directs viewers to what she calls the “sweet spot” of 90 RPM. The combination of all of Aluna’s distinct songs in the mix sets up viewers for a kinetic cycling encounter.

Loud Luxury: Run

The LA-based house due Loud Luxury generated a mix sure to get listeners motivated and amped to run. Inspired by their own personal preference for fitness music, Joe Depace, one half of the group, told Apple Music, “in terms of the set’s structure, we were really intentional about having some sections that are very high-energy, big sing-along moments mixed with sections where it’s a bit more rhythmic and repetitive. The goal here is to keep you on pace so you’re never getting bored but also not losing all of your energy on one song.” The duo referenced their own busy schedules for creativity in the fitness mix, aiming to create something that would be easy to listen and get active to.

Valentino Khan: Gym

All Apple Music Fitness mixes have a shared goal in common; to pump up the viewers and give an essential boost of energy during workouts. Valentino Khan, an LA-based DJ/producer, created the fitness mix for the gym to get anyone through weight trainings, HIIT workouts or any other demanding fitness routines. Khan elaborated on his mix, stating, “I wanted to keep the energy high, while still selecting tracks that were pleasant to listen to play in any setting. It’s a bit of a crescendo, with the higher-energy tracks towards the later stages of the mix. At the same time, I wanted to give people a great ending that they can ride out to.”

Above & Beyond: Yoga

The UK trio Above & Beyond has released three albums since their Flow State project in 2019, with intention “to bring people’s attention and focus towards helping themselves find better mental fitness and overall happiness in life,” Paavo Siljamäki, one third of the group, tells Apple Music. Since collaborating in the past with yoga experts Elena Brower and ChauKei Ngai, the group was the innate choice to cultivate the Apple Music Fitness mix for yoga. The mix is a crucial one, as the flow of the mix will directly correlate to the energy and tempo during one’s yoga workout. “Through raised awareness, being more present, one can reach a state of flow: a creative and free state of mind where time, fear, and stress dissipate,” says Siljamäki. Above & Beyond strives to provide a sense of calm and comfort through this fitness mix.

Will Smith – YouTube Originals

WILL SMITH PUSHES LIMITS IN NEW SIX-PART
DOCUSERIES “BEST SHAPE OF MY LIFE”

WATCH OFFICIAL TRAILER HERE

NEW YOUTUBE ORIGINALS FIVE-DAY EVENT PREMIERES
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8 ON 
WILL SMITH’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL

YouTube Originals and Will Smith today debuted the highly-anticipated official trailer for new six-part unscripted series “Best Shape of My Life,” premiering Monday, November 8 with episodes one and two followed by new episodes premiering daily only on Will Smith’s official YouTube channel. This emotionally packed five-day event from Westbrook Media peels back the curtain on what makes Will Smith truly tick as he is pushed to his limits physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

What starts as a docu-follow about Will’s desire to go from the “worst shape” of his life to a new movie star body evolved into a deeper, darker and more profound journey into Will’s psyche. With “Best Shape of My Life,” Will finds himself questioning the very behaviors that have led to his success – and ultimately it’s on this search where his healing can begin, featuring meaningful moments with his family and those closest to him. This marks Will Smith’s second project with YouTube Originals. In his first, “Will Smith: The Jump,” he accepted the ultimate challenge to bungee jump from a helicopter over the Grand Canyon on his 50th birthday for charity in 2018, resulting in nearly 18M views in the first 48 hours.

Watch the official trailer for Will Smith’s “Best Shape of My Life” HERE.

“Best Shape of My Life” joins a robust slate of YouTube Originals including recent hits like “Demi Lovato: Dancing with the Devil,” “Noted: Alicia Keys The Untold Stories,” “I Promise” with LeBron James, “Barbershop Medicine,” “World Debut,” “30 Days With: Bretman Rock,” “K-Pop Evolution,” “Black Renaissance,” “and more.

About Westbrook Media:

Westbrook Media, a subsidiary of Westbrook Inc., is a best-in-class content studio that incubates and produces premium IP with talent, creators, and brands. Westbrook Media’s innovative approach challenges the status quo by combining emerging technologies, formats, artists, and platforms to broaden the reach of premium storytelling across the ever-evolving content landscape.

About YouTube Originals:

YouTube Originals are award-winning series, specials and livestream events for YouTube’s two billion active monthly users that entertain, inspire, connect, and educate audiences through authentic storytelling from YouTube creators, music artists and celebrities. By tapping into the platform’s growing global community, fan engagement product capabilities, and innovative content, YouTube Originals amplify the most popular and unique aspects of YouTube.  Fans can experience YouTube Originals content for free through the standard YouTube platform (ad-supported), or through a paid subscription to YouTube Premium, which adds ad-free, bonus/exclusive content, and early binge access to select programming. YouTube Originals are available in over 100 countries worldwide.  Keep up with the latest YouTube news by visiting the global platform’s official blog at https://blog.youtube/.

Reebok Athletes UNLOCKED

Reebok will host a live talent Q&A titled Reebok Athletes UNLOCKED: A Panel Discussion on Fitness, Training, and Performance, which will feature fitness trainer Jess Sims, elite athlete Annie Thorisdottir, long distance-runner, Justyn Knight. The panel will take place tonight, 6 pm EST on Tues, Oct 12, and all you have to do to join is sign up with your email for Reebok UNLOCKED, the brand’s loyalty program. Join the panel HERE.

The athlete panel is a part of Reebok UNLOCKED Week, a week-long virtual event from October 13-19, open to all members of Reebok UNLOCKED, the brand’s free loyalty program that allows consumers to earn points by buying and reviewing items. Reebok UNLOCKED Week is the brand’s first-ever member celebration rewarding its loyal customers, playing host to the brand’s biggest names, collaborations, and exclusive drops.

A host of exclusive experiences and products will be made available to members throughout Reebok UNLOCKED Week, including:

10/12: Reebok Athletes UNLOCKED: A Panel Discussion on Fitness, Training, and Performance featuring fitness trainer Jess Sims, elite athlete Annie Thorisdottir, long-distance runner, Justyn Knight professional basketball player, Tamara Young.

10/13: Reebok x Ghostbusters Collection (Adult shoes and hoodies and Kids’ shoes)

10/15: Reebok x Peppa Pig collection (Kids’ lifestyle shoes)

10/17: Archive Collection (An assortment of the best of Reebok’s collaborations brought back for a limited time including the Iverson collections, Jurassic Park, and Victoria Beckham Drop 5, among others)

10/18: Nano X1 Adventure (Men’s & Women’s cross-training shoes)

Eleven Foods to Stimulate Creativity in the Brain

Are you seeking a way to supercharge your imagination? Why don’t you start with your dinner plate?

Certain meals contain the ideal combination of nutrients to help your neurons do their jobs well. What should you put on your plate? Chow down on these 11 foods that stimulate creativity in your brain.

1. Cruciferous Vegetables

Did you know that the bacteria in your teeth can travel to your brain, where it may hinder your creativity and increase your Alzheimer’s risk? Scientists discovered a species of bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis could travel to this organ, releasing enzymes called gingipains that can destroy nerve cells. This destruction leads to memory loss and, eventually, disease.

However, what if you don’t always have a toothbrush or time to use one after meals? The solution is to pack some carrots and cauliflower along with your lunch and eat it after your sandwich. The rough, fibrous surfaces scrub away dirt and debris from tooth surfaces, decreasing the food source your oral bacteria need to thrive.

2. Nuts

Depression can wreak havoc on your creativity. One way to reignite your spark is by eating foods high in the minerals zinc, selenium, and magnesium. Research published by the National Institutes of Health suggests sufficient intake can alleviate this condition as effectively as antidepressants, especially among individuals with an underlying deficiency.

Where do you find these substances? One plant-based source comes from nuts. A single Brazil nut contains your full day’s recommended daily allowance of selenium alone — you must use care not to eat too many. Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pecans are also excellent snacks.

3. Seeds

Another rich source of zinc, selenium, and magnesium lies in seeds. Fortunately, these tiny wonders are among the most versatile foods, making it a snap to add them to your diet.

A sprinkle of sunflower seeds or pepitas brings a pleasant nutty crunch to salads. They’re far more nourishing and satisfying than croutons made with white flour. Chia and flax seeds are excellent plant-based sources of omega-3s along with minerals, so add a liberal handful to anything from stir-frys to soups.

4. Seafood

Have you ever tried to come up with an engaging advertising slogan or even pen the next line of an essay when your temples pound and kaleidoscopes of migraine yuckiness dance before your eyes? How did that work out for you? Probably not well.

Seafood can help stimulate creativity in your brain by running interference against the pain that inhibits imaginative thought. Fish and crustaceans are high in riboflavin or vitamin B2. Research published by MedlinePlus indicates that regular intake of this nutrient can reduce your number of migraine headaches by two attacks a month. If your attacks last an average of two to three days, you reclaim up to six days out of every 30. It also reduces the severity when you do get hit.

Another way that increasing your seafood intake stimulates creativity is by lowering your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, preserving the neural channels that allow for rational thought. Sufficient intake of the DHA and EPA in fatty fish promotes brain growth in infants and children and may boost cognitive brainpower in adult women.

Omega-3s also help fight depression, which can stifle creativity. Why not make like the Catholics and make fish Friday a tradition, along with some mackerel on meatless Monday to meet your intake requirement?

5. Kale

Kale is an excellent plant-based source of B vitamins, including riboflavin. Plus, this versatile veggie makes an interesting alternative to tortillas when making wraps. Create a speedy lunch in seconds by adding a slice or two of lean protein like turkey, some cheese, and a few tomato or red pepper slices to a leaf and rolling it. Add a dash of oil and vinegar and some salt and pepper, and it’s like eating a sandwich without the white bread.

You can also braise kale and serve it as a side dish. The only people who should use caution with this veggie are those prone to kidney stones or taking blood thinners — check with your doctor or dietitian to be sure.

6. Green Tea

You might reach for coffee for a caffeine injection to supercharge your creativity when the afternoon doldrums strike. However, opting for a latte could keep you awake into the wee hours, disrupting your sleep patterns and giving you an even worse time concentrating.

While green tea does contain caffeine, it’s a mild dose — delivering a jolt of only 96 mg instead of 400. Therefore, you might do better busting the afternoon slump with this substance, as you’ll feel less jittery at night.

7. Curry

One reason why you might struggle to stir your creative juices has to do with inflammation. This condition often brings with it more than its fair share of distracting aches and pains.

Turmeric contains curcumin, one of the most potent anti-inflammatories you can find. It gets even more powerful when you add black pepper. A traditional Indian curry contains both substances in droves, so enjoy.

8. Quinoa

You know how the commercial tagline goes: you’re not yourself when you’re hungry. You’re probably not very creative, either.

Quinoa will fill you with lasting energy for much longer than a candy bar. The fiber in this ancient grain keeps tummy rumbles from distracting your concentration. Best of all, it’s safe for many people with celiac disease, although those who are particularly sensitive might find that the proteins are similar enough to cause trouble.

9. Garlic

Could that slice of pizza supercharge your creativity? Perhaps if it comes with a garlicky crust.

Garlic contains allicin, a compound this root herb emits when crushed or chopped. This substance can help lower your blood pressure, which is helpful if stress impacts your creative power. It may also ease any distracting muscle soreness from your last power workout more quickly.

10. Berries

When it comes to anthocyanin intake — a vital group of antioxidants — you can’t do much better than berries. Best of all, these tiny fruits are versatile and easy to add to numerous dishes.

Add a sprinkle of dried blueberries to your lunchtime salad. Blend some raspberries into your morning smoothie to counteract the sweetness of the bananas and milk with a little tartness. Your taste buds and neurons will thank you.

11. Mushrooms

Some mushrooms have long-standing reputations for increasing mental clarity. For example, reishi and cordyceps have neuroprotective properties that make them worth the bitter taste.

However, you don’t have to pucker your lips to get the benefits. You can find these extracts in liquid supplemental form. Add a dropper to your green tea and enjoy the dual perks of antioxidants and adaptogens.

Stimulating Creativity With Food

If you want to stimulate creativity in your brain, why not start with your diet? Add more of these 11 foods to your plate and watch your imagination come to life! If all else fails, use the lion’s mane as a brain enhancer.

Are Supersets Good for Building Upper Body Strength?

Supersets are a type of workout that is designed to increase the amount of sets you do for an exercise without resting in between sets. For example, if you’re doing a push-up, you might push your way up and then grab weights on the floor to do some bicep curls.

The goal of supersetting is to get more work done in less time by minimizing rest periods. And because of this, supersets are often used for building muscle mass. 

So what’s the verdict? Are supersets good for building upper body strength? Read on to find out!

The truth about supersets for strength gains

Some say that supersets are great for adding intensity to your workout if done correctly, but others say that supersets don’t show any advantage over regular sets. As with most workouts, there are no absolutes in the strength training field. You can add a superset to your workout, and if you go about it the wrong way, it can be counterproductive.

It’s not that supersets can’t be an effective addition to your routine, it’s that you should be careful going about it. And you definitely need to have a plan in mind.

One of the biggest misconceptions about supersets is that they show no improvement in strength, but as with all exercise protocols, this is not the case. The truth is that high-intensity workouts, like chest and tricep supersets, will show a greater increase in strength gains than low-intensity ones.

You can do either type of workout in a split set (doing a high-intensity set, followed by a low-intensity set), or you can do a full superset (one high-intensity set followed by a low-intensity set). Either way, you’re going to see a big difference in your performance. The question is, how can you pick the right superset workouts?

This is where it gets a bit complicated. The first thing you need to know is that when training muscle with high intensity, the way you perform your superset is going to affect the way you build strength.

The problem with doing this is that you tend to go all-out on your first set and then use the low-intensity set as a warm-up. This is a good way to help you get accustomed to the high-intensity energy, but this isn’t the best way to do supersets.

The best way to do supersets is to increase your volume over a few weeks. When you do a high-intensity set, it’s best to keep your reps at about 20-25 (but if you’re new to the higher rep range, go down a notch or two). The low-intensity set will be low reps, but you’ll still be using a fair amount of intensity (probably about 40-60%) to drive your muscles to fatigue.

How Do You Do Supersets Right?

When you’re looking at a program for doing supersets, the program should focus on progressing slowly. The higher you go in the weight category, the more you’ll want to include in your supersets, but this is very difficult to measure.

The best way to do a superset is to increase the weights slowly, so you’re not burning out your nervous system. The good thing about doing supersets is that the high-intensity set will be done fast, so you can have more time for the low-intensity set.

This is a good way to add more intensity to your routine without adding a lot of volume.

Beginner mistakes with supersets

Use of too few sets: It’s better to use more sets than too few to reap the benefits of supersets. When you use a limited number of sets, you are less likely to get adequate rest between sets.

Severely Limited Rest Periods: Being able to rest for 45 seconds or more between sets in some programs can give you a significant amount of time to recover. In these programs, however, you are going to have to do one “one rep max” set and then rest. You won’t have that recovery time between sets.

Inadequate stretching: It’s good to stretch after your supersets, and post-workout stretching is generally recommended over pre-workout stretching. However, if you’re too sore to stretch at all, it’s a sign you’ve done something wrong.

With supersets, you can easily end up training to failure or to exhaustion. As soon as your heart rate drops below the anaerobic threshold, your muscles will stop working effectively and you will have to stop the exercise.

The problem is that it’s hard to recover from this kind of workout. When you train to failure, you aren’t able to recover from it because you are going to be unable to get into the zone for the next exercise.

The Bottom Line

Super sets are an awesome way to add intensity to your workouts. If done properly, you can dramatically increase your strength and power in the gym, but you must remember that this is a short-term benefit. With hard workouts, you will be forced to give your body the rest it needs to heal and rebuild.

You have to balance this short-term benefit against long-term goals and your training volume. If you’re trying to increase your strength, you want to stick to a structured program that can safely help you to that end. Supersets won’t get you there, but they will help get you started.