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Dwayne Johnson has consistently lived up to his Rock moniker by appearing to be chiseled out of stone. And part of the success that hes had with his phenomenal physique is owed to an inquisitive approach to bodybuilding. Johnson is always searching for new ways to put his home Iron Paradise gym to great use, and in a recent video posted to Instagram, the Peoples Champion demonstrates how he adds a simple twist to a dumbbell row variation in order to make it super effective.

DJ is currently shooting the The Smashing Machine, a movie based on the life and exploits of mixed-martial arts legend, Mark Kerr, and has been training hard to replicate Kerrs solid physique. To that end, The Rock has been working long hours in the weight room, and one exercise that he says is one of his favorites is a dumbbell variation, as follows:

The Rock demonstrates chest supported dumbbell row with 2 second hold

In this double-arm dumbbell row variation, The Rock leans forward onto an incline bench. The bench will provide support and place the body at an angle to reduce the load on his hamstrings and glutes, instead allowing the upper body to do the work. This exercise will hit the latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, trapezius, and rear deltoids, making it awesome for back strength and posture.

2 sec peak hold, with deep stretch at the bottom, explains Johnson. For each rep, the former WWE champion can be seen holding his position with the dumbbells for 2 seconds at the top of each row. Studies have shown that prolonged time under tension can bring about greater protein synthesis during the muscles recovery process. A 2012 study said: greater muscle time under tension increased the acute amplitude of mitochondrial and sarcoplasmic protein synthesis and also resulted in a robust, but delayed stimulation of myofibrillar protein synthesis 2430 h after resistance exercise.

These are a b*tch and kicks my ass but super effective and one of my fav DB rowing exercises, commented The Rock, who also utilized a deep stretch at the bottom of each rep. By stretching, youll activate your muscles and help them to grow. Try the Rock dumbbell row variation for yourself. The Smashing Machine is expected to hit screens in 2025, but in the meantime, The Rock continues to smash his workouts.

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The Rock Demonstrates This Super Effective Dumbbell Row Variation - Muscle & Fitness

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With her third-place finishes at the 2015 and 2016

Here's her recipe for staying mind-body strong.

'I am the opposite of a morning person. I could train at midnight and have the best session of my life, but at 6am, no one wants to be around me. Ill wake up at 7.30am and then train from 8am to 10am. Im so lucky that, as a professional athlete, training in the gym is my job. I train for between six and eight hours a day, with breaks in between.'

'I write in my journal every morning. The ritual helps me be present, especially on those days whenI wake up and there are so many things to do that my mind feels overwhelmed. I love the journals structured format: it will prompt me to write three things that Im grateful for, along with one "I am..." affirmation. Im always working on: "I am calm" its an ongoing goal for me.'

'It doesnt matter what other people think; whats important is that youre honest with yourself about what type of training will help you hit your goal. Maybe thats three months of the year with no-pressure workouts, where you just do your thing. Or maybe you work best under pressure. Do what works for you.'

'I used to be shamed for being muscular. Id walk through an airport and get so many comments like, Oh, that girl can beat me up! Those men would never say that to another man. Once I started coaching, I fell in love with the idea that the more you push yourself and work hard, the more attractive you are.'

'In 2021 I hurt my knee. I felt it click during a split jerk [raising the barbell from the shoulders to the overhead position, with the feet jumping into a lunge position to receive the bar] and an MRI scan showed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament [which meant I had to miss the 2021 CrossFitGames]. So, I thought,What can I do about it? I can have surgery, recover and then achieve the most epic comeback. Its all about finding a story that can motivate you.'

'Just before I got injured, I came out of an 11-year romantic relationship and then my beloved dog, Morley, was hit by a car. Its been tough, but I remind myself that everything is teaching me something. Im still going through this in a positive way, and Im learning to enjoy every day instead of always projecting into the future. Ive had a difficult time, but its teaching me to be present.'

'In my downtime, I love to draw, which Im pretty shit at to be honest! Ive also started playing guitar. It can be so frustrating the way youll be progressing nicely with it, but then youll pick it up again the next time and be hopeless. But I love the way that whenIm practising, Im so engrossed in the process that it takes my mind to an altogether different place.'

'The other side of my job is the admin: all the pieces of paper I have to sign and endless meetings I need to attend. But the way I see it, I can either whine and put off all these things Id rather not do or I can just be in the present moment, maybe stick on some good music (I love classic rock) and just get it done. I tell myself often that Im choosing to do what I do and that Im thankful for it. Its so important not to lose sight of that.'

Become a member of the Women's Health Collective and get full access to the Women's Health app, available to download on Google Play and the App Store, to get the latest celebrity-inspired workouts and fitness content.

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CrossFit champion Sara Sigmundsdttir on training, rehabbing, and expressing her creativity - Women's Health UK

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American International Group Inc. lowered its position in shares of Planet Fitness, Inc. (NYSE:PLNT Free Report) by 3.1% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 115,761 shares of the companys stock after selling 3,747 shares during the period. American International Group Inc. owned approximately 0.13% of Planet Fitness worth $8,451,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Cadian Capital Management LP increased its position in shares of Planet Fitness by 9.6% during the fourth quarter. Cadian Capital Management LP now owns 4,430,368 shares of the companys stock valued at $323,417,000 after acquiring an additional 386,861 shares in the last quarter. Dorsal Capital Management LP bought a new stake in Planet Fitness in the 4th quarter worth approximately $182,500,000. Point72 Asset Management L.P. grew its position in Planet Fitness by 39.1% in the 4th quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. now owns 1,837,231 shares of the companys stock worth $134,118,000 after purchasing an additional 516,790 shares during the period. Greenvale Capital LLP grew its position in Planet Fitness by 291.3% in the 4th quarter. Greenvale Capital LLP now owns 1,741,140 shares of the companys stock worth $127,103,000 after purchasing an additional 1,296,140 shares during the period. Finally, Broad Bay Capital Management LP grew its position in Planet Fitness by 15.4% in the 4th quarter. Broad Bay Capital Management LP now owns 1,223,000 shares of the companys stock worth $89,279,000 after purchasing an additional 163,000 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 95.53% of the companys stock.

Planet Fitness stock opened at $72.56 on Thursday. The companys 50-day moving average price is $64.01 and its 200-day moving average price is $66.30. Planet Fitness, Inc. has a twelve month low of $44.13 and a twelve month high of $75.86. The company has a market cap of $6.40 billion, a PE ratio of 41.70, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 1.43.

A number of research firms have commented on PLNT. Stifel Nicolaus downgraded shares of Planet Fitness from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their target price for the stock from $80.00 to $70.00 in a research report on Friday, May 10th. Robert W. Baird lifted their target price on shares of Planet Fitness from $80.00 to $88.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, May 10th. StockNews.com raised shares of Planet Fitness from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 8th. DA Davidson reiterated a neutral rating and set a $62.00 price target on shares of Planet Fitness in a research note on Friday, June 14th. Finally, Raymond James lifted their price target on shares of Planet Fitness from $75.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, May 10th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Planet Fitness currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $75.00.

Read Our Latest Analysis on PLNT

(Free Report)

Planet Fitness, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, franchises and operates fitness centers under the Planet Fitness brand. The company operates through three segments: Franchise, Corporate-Owned Stores, and Equipment. The company is involved in franchising business in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico, and Australia.

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American International Group Inc. Sells 3747 Shares of Planet Fitness, Inc. (NYSE:PLNT) - Defense World

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The Paralympics' audience has been steadily growing for over two decades. The International Paralympic Committee reported that 1.8 billion people from 25 countries tuned into the Athens 2004 Games and 4.1 billion in 154 countries watched the Rio 2016 Games; they expected 4.25 billion from 177 countries to tune into the Tokyo 2020 Games. And there's reason to believe that Paris 2024 could bring in even more viewers, in part due to increasing media coverage and promotion of the Paralympics including the Paralympics official TikTok account, which has gone viral on and off for the better part of the last year.

As social media virality is wont to do, the past 12 months have brought the official account of the Paralympic Games its fair share of controversy. The account is run by a Paralympian themselves and uses a humorous approach to content creation.

With 3.5 million followers and counting, some people say that the content strategy is spot on, garnering more eyes on the oft-overlooked arena of disabled sport. (While viewership for the Paralympics has increased over the last couple of decades, it still lags behind the Olympics. NBC reported that the 2020 Tokyo Games saw 15.5 million viewers tuning in on an average night, while the Paralympic Games drew 14 million viewers in total, according to WKAR News.)

Much of the content showcases athlete performances. But the account has been criticized for its use of trending sounds that can seem to make light of the athletes' performance, or even poke fun at them. In one video, skier Martin France paces it down the slopes set to the tune of the Cha Cha Slide. A tense overtaking clip of hand cyclists racing through the road track is soundtracked by an infamous Formula 1 commentary clip. And a triumphant snippet of cyclist Darren Hicks uses a meme-ified sound that says, "left, left, left, I'm going to make a left." Other clips show athletes making mistakes or crashing into one another.

Many members of the disabled community argue that the tactics used in the videos fail to help build wider public respect for elite disabled athletes.

Michelle, who is 23, told PS, "I'm scared it will reinforce this idea that Paralympic athletes are not real athletes. I think disabled people making jokes about themselves is great but maybe it would open the door for other people making the same kind of videos and not taking the athletes seriously."

Tess, 32, agrees that laughing at ourselves feels good, but suggests that it gets complicated when the context changes: "I think humor is a good means to talk about disability and get the discourse going, but I think it's more effective when it's used by an individual in relation to themselves and their own story," she explains. "But when humor is applied to someone else's disability it feels like we're laughing at them more than with them."

The IPC didn't respond to PS's request for comment by press time, but addressed concerns of the account content to NPR last year, telling them the account is run by a "Paralympian who fully understands disability." However, a 'full' understanding of disability is impossible given that there are no two people with identical experiences of disability, and that there are infinite ways disabled people experience the world, whether they are athletes or not. Therefore, one disabled person's judgment on whether this content is offensive or not isn't a good enough measure.

When comparing the Paralympic account's content strategy to that of the official Olympic account, clear disparities are apparent. The Olympics account showcases athletes at the peak of their performance, offering insight into the history of various sports and interviews with notable Olympic figures.

There are a small number of informative videos on the Paralympic account, such as one explaining the rules of Boccia, a unique precision ball sport. However, the majority of videos use trending sounds and lean heavily on humor.

That's not to say that all of the content on the account is offensive. In fact, most people I interviewed agreed that some videos felt funny to them and others made them deeply uncomfortable. However, it's essential to consider the context in which these videos are consumed. Case in point: While there are fewer recent posts that use a sound or clip that directly highlights an athletes' disability, there are still some and these are the videos that tend to go viral.

For example, the Darren Hicks video, from April 2024, racked up seven million views and over 800K likes. A funny but admiring video posted a month later showing clips of Birgit Skarstein competing in three sports, set to a trending sound saying, "So you're this. but you're also this. And you're this? How does anybody date you?" earned around 40K views and under one thousand likes.

We live in a fundamentally ableist society that already considers disability as something to be mocked or ignored. Do we need to fuel that fire?

Lucy, a Paralympian who competed in the Rio 2016 Games as part of the South African Rowing team, explains her complicated feelings towards the content: "It's very nuanced," she tells PS. "My team and environment were full of jokes and banter. We were friends and spent hours together with a common goal. We could make jokes about each other like that. But I would never do it with someone I didn't know, it's just rude."

Can the type of self-deprecating humor that can sometimes grow out of a supportive and trusting community ever translate to a wider audience? Lucy is uncertain: "In terms of the videos, it's the same thing. Who's making the jokes? What is the punchline? Some of the videos are very funny, some make my tummy turn. I'm so glad that that format is getting views and getting people to engage with para sport, but at what cost?"

Could this new found attention end up having positive outcomes? Of course. But are those payoffs worth the risk of potentially amplifying prejudiced beliefs against para athletes, compounding an already present idea that they are less impressive than their able-bodied counterparts? It's a question with no easy answer and one that may take on new meaning after the 2024 Games.

Hannah Turner is a disabled writer and journalist living with complex chronic illnesses. Her writing focuses on disability, anti-wellness culture, and pop culture. Her words have appeared in many places, including PS, Refinery29, Mashable, and Dazed.

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What to Know About the Controversy Behind the Paralympics TikTok Account - POPSUGAR

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Sennheiser could have just trotted out a set of wireless earbuds that were rated IP55 and called it the Momentum Sport ($330), but it went further, adding heart-rate and body-temperature sensors to the made-for-exercise earbuds. These additions give you more insight into workouts, but also feed data to your existing third-party activity apps. Of course, the Momentum Sport also has to excel at the normal earbud stuff, and offer an ergonomic design, active noise cancellation (ANC), touch controls and other common features. Sennheiser has a solid track record with sound quality, but now it has to balance that with the expanded capabilities of the Momentum Sport.

While the Momentum Sport has a better design than the Momentum 4, it struggles in key areas. The biometric sensors work well, but sound quality is inconsistent and on-board controls are frustrating.

The Momentum Sports overall shape is what I wish Sennheiser used for the Momentum True Wireless 4. The formers rounder profile fits my ears better and feels more comfortable even though theyre slightly larger. Without the fit wing, the Sport version still rests nicely in my ears, though that extra part definitely helps keep them in place during workouts. Simply put, this design feels more refined and Id love to see the company take a similar direction on its flagship model.

Sennheiser says it aimed for vivid sound and impressive bass that would help amp up a workout and it delivered. The stock tuning has noticeably more low-end thump on Justices Hyperdrama, bracing the electronic tunes with a thicker layer of tone. Thats definitely something that assists with your energy levels during physical activity. But, as Ill discuss later, the extra bass isnt always a good thing.

The Momentum Sports marquee features, which are heart-rate and body-temperature tracking, work well. Thanks to the earbuds secure fit, you can get constant, dependable readings in Sennheisers Smart Control app. Heart rate figures matched those on my Apple Watch, and I confirmed my temperatures with a forehead scan. The Momentum Sports readings were consistent with the other devices every time, which means the earbuds are as reliable as other at-home alternatives.

Whats more, theres tight integration with apps like Polar, Peloton, Strava and Zwift, so you can use the Momentum Sport with their devices and not just Sennheiers app, which is mostly designed to tweak settings. However, only Polars Flow supports the Momentum Sports body-temperature tracking. Sennheiser says this is because Polar is the only company with an ecosystem that keeps tabs on that metric and supports the appropriate sensors. No matter which third-party app you prefer, youll probably want to sync the Momentum Sport to one of them, since the Smart Control software only displays real-time readings and wont keep tabs on trends or monitor stats during workouts.

Although it has to power more sensors, the Momentum Sport still delivers solid battery life. Sennheiser says a single charge offers five and a half hours of playback, and that claim holds up. I didnt have any issues hitting that figure during my testing of looping audio at about 65-70 percent volume. Thats with ANC on normal mode and heart-rate and body temperature sensors active. The company says you can extend the battery on the Momentum Sport by 30 minutes if you enable Eco Mode in its app. This feature disables aptX audio and both of the body-tracking sensors.

The Momentum Sport lets you tap your cheek for playback and call controls. This is convenient when running, for example, since you dont have to find the exact location of the touch panel while on the move or if youre wearing gloves. The downside is that it can be activated by chewing. It is intensely annoying. During my tests, chewing gum or food frequently triggered the controls.

Sennheiser says this is because I have strong jaw muscles (yay?) in close proximity to the sensor, but that doesnt make it any less maddening. I chew gum during both runs and lifting sessions, so this is a dealbreaker. Just clenching my jaw didn't trigger it, so at least there's that. The only way to remedy the issue is to turn off the onboard controls entirely, which disables both the cheek tapping and more common earbud tapping gestures.

The Momentum True Wireless 4s ANC performance is solid but not amazing and that holds true on the Momentum Sport. Both sets of earbuds perform similarly with constant noise sources, lowering the volume of the external roar rather than blocking it completely. Like a lot of the competition (and the True Wireless 4), the Momentum Sport struggles with human voices. Overall, neither of them offer the kind of robust, world-silencing power that Bose and Sony muster.

Transparency mode on the Momentum Sport is serviceable, but its far from great. The earbuds let in your surroundings well, but dont pipe in enough of your voice and I found myself getting shouty during a few calls. Theres also an anti-wind mode that comes in handy during outdoor workouts, but its a tool nearly all new earbuds are equipped with these days.

Unfortunately, good audio performance isnt universal on the Momentum Sport. While some albums are detailed and crisp despite the added bass, others are missing punchy highs and a strong mid range. The sound profile compresses things like grungy, distorted guitars and bass lines. Vocals consistently cut through, but the more prominent kick drum in songs like Knocked Looses chaotic Suffocate relegates guitars to the backseat. In fact, guitars across a range of styles including alternative, rock and country lack the depth and detail the Momentum 4 provide. By dialing up the low-end tone, Sennheiser has sacrificed some of the dynamics that usually give its earbuds such great audio. And in a set of earbuds that cost over $300, thats a shame.

Lastly, lets discuss the case, which is less sophisticated than Sennheisers previous designs. These earbuds cost $330 and the charging case shouldnt feel this flimsy. The lid closes securely most of the time, but the hinge is just a piece of rubber so the case doesnt stay open unless you lay it all the way flat. The soft-touch coating feels nice, but compared to the accessories that come with the Momentum line, this case is what Id expect with a set of earbuds that cost half as much. The good news is, there is wireless charging support and the case is rated IPX4, so its not all a loss.

The Momentum Sport presents a dichotomy. On one hand, theyre excellent workout earbuds that reliably track biometric stats for an inside look at your training regime. On the other, they lack the overall sound quality Ive come to expect from Sennheisers Momentum lineup and the overly sensitive controls are an extreme nuisance. The earbuds could improve with some software fine-tuning, but for now, theyre too expensive to buy just for workouts and dont even perform consistently enough to be your go-to set.

1 / 10

The Momentum Sport comes with different sizes of ear tips and fit wings.

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Sennheiser Momentum Sport review: Fitness earbuds that lack finesse - Engadget

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The entertainment world has always been rife with rumors and speculations, especially concerning celebrities personal lives and health. Recently, Ashley Benson found herself at the center of such speculation. Following the birth of her child, whispers began to circulate regarding her rapid weight loss. Some speculated that she might have used Ozempic, but Benson was quick to address these accusations. In a candid interview, she emphasized her dedication to fitness and well-being as the primary drivers behind her postpartum transformation.

A significant aspect of Ashley Bensons journey after giving birth is her approach to fitness. Postpartum fitness, while challenging for many moms, can be an empowering phase if managed correctly. For new mothers, its essential to balance rest and physical activity to aid in recovery while also working toward their fitness goals. Proper guidance from fitness experts can help tailor exercises that cater specifically to a mothers needs post-delivery.

Ashley attributes much of her success to a structured and disciplined workout regimen. Instead of resorting to shortcuts, she engages in various exercises ranging from cardio to strength training. Her personalized workout routine, designed by professionals, includes elements like Pilates, yoga, and interval training. This holistic approach not only aids in weight reduction but also promotes mental well-being.

Benson highlights the importance of balancing cardiovascular workouts with strength training. Cardiovascular exercises help in burning calories and improving heart health, while strength training builds muscle, which in turn boosts metabolism. By integrating both forms of exercise into her routine, she ensures that her body remains fit and agile without overexertion.

When rumors about her using Ozempic surfaced, Ashley was forthright in addressing them. She clarified that her weight loss was a result of consistent hard work rather than any medication. She expressed concern over how such unfounded accusations could impact her fans, particularly younger ones, who look up to her as a role model. Transparency and honesty were her primary tools in dispelling these rumors.

In todays digital age, social media amplifies both support and scrutiny. While platforms like Instagram and Twitter provided a space for Ashley to share her fitness journey and connect with fans, they also became avenues for spreading baseless accusations. Screen names hiding behind anonymity often make comments that lack empathy and understanding. Despite this, Benson chose to use these platforms to educate her followers about her real journey and the efforts she put into regaining her pre-pregnancy shape.

A key element that Benson emphasizes is having a robust support system. Friends, family, and professional trainers played an indispensable role in her journey. They provided the encouragement and motivation needed to stick with her fitness regimen. New moms often find solace in knowing theyre not alone and that having a supportive community can significantly enhance their postpartum experience.

Physical health cannot be discussed without touching upon emotional and mental well-being, particularly for new mothers. The transition to motherhood brings a mix of joy, anxiety, and physical strain. Ashley has openly talked about her struggles and the importance of maintaining mental health. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and even simple activities such as walking or spending time outdoors can be immensely beneficial. Melding these practices with fitness routines creates a balanced lifestyle conducive to overall health.

Bensons transparency regarding her motherhood journey sets her apart. Rather than conforming to unrealistic standards often perpetuated by Hollywood, she chooses authenticity. She frequently updates her followers on her progress, sharing both highs and lows. This honest portrayal offers reassurance to other moms navigating similar paths, promoting a healthier, more realistic view of postpartum recovery.

Ashleys story serves as an inspiration to countless mothers who may feel pressured by societal norms. Her commitment to fitness and well-being post-birth shows that its possible to achieve ones goals through perseverance and dedication without succumbing to shortcuts. By taking one step at a time and focusing on sustainable health practices, new moms can effectively navigate the complexities of postpartum life.

One significant impact of Ashley Bensons public declaration is the shift in focus from purely aesthetic goals to overall health. Media portrayals often emphasize appearance, overshadowing the critical components of health and wellness. Benson encourages her audience to prioritize well-being over mere looks, providing a refreshing change from conventional celebrity narratives. This mindset fosters a healthier approach and motivates individuals to adopt fitness routines that benefit both mind and body.

By sharing her real stories and experiences, Ashley helps change perceptions surrounding celebrity transformations. When stars like Benson open up about their journeys, it bridges the gap between public figures and ordinary individuals. Fans see that achieving goals takes effort and discipline rather than magic pills or fad diets. These revelations dispel myths and promote a grounded, achievable path to health post-childbirth.

Peter, a distinguished alumnus of a prominent journalism school in New Jersey, brings a rich tapestry of insights to The Signal. With a fervent passion for news, society, art, and television, Peter exemplifies the essence of a modern journalist. His keen eye for societal trends and a deep appreciation for the arts infuse his writing with a unique perspective. Peters journalistic prowess is evident in his ability to weave complex narratives into engaging stories. His work is not just informative but a journey through the multifaceted world of finance and societal dynamics, reflecting his commitment to excellence in journalism.

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No Shortcuts Here: Ashley Benson Debunks Ozempic Rumors, Focuses on Fitness Post-Baby - The Signal

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If you've spent any time on the wellness side of TikTok, you've probably seen videos of celebrities and fitness influencers working out in a beautiful gym with all the workout equipment a fitness lover could dream of, a trendy black color scheme, and truly impeccable lighting. If you have a really sharp eye, you may have noticed the distinctive logo wallpaper too. The fitness center in question is Alo Gym yes, that's Alo, as in the chic activewear brand and it's even dreamier than your favorite TikTok stars make it look on-screen.

The likes of Glen Powell, the Beibers, and Kylie Jenner have all been spotted at the exclusive gym space, while TikTokers like Alix Earle and Jake Shane have shared full videos of their experiences.

As a health and wellness journalist who spends an unsightly amount of time digging into every corner of the wellness world on social media, I was naturally very curious about the gym that kept gracing my feed. After some light investigating (ahem, falling down a TikTok rabbit hole), I quickly learned that this isn't any old gym you can just walk into and become a member this is an invite-only workout space located at Alo Headquarters in Beverly Hills. (Note: It's a different space than the Alo Sanctuary studios, which you may have also seen online.)

Upon learning that Alo Gym isn't open to the public, I logged it away in my brain as a cool workout space, and didn't give it another thought. That is until, out of the blue, I got THE email. "Reaching out on behalf of Alo Beauty & Wellness to invite you to a 1:1 personal training session at their Beverly Hills HQ," it read. Thus began my experience at the Alo Gym and, since we don't believe in gatekeeping at PS, I'm taking you along for the journey.

After responding with an enthusiastic "yes" to the email invite, I scheduled a 1:1 Pilates training session in the weeks that followed. On the day of, I pulled up to the brand's discrete yet grand building in Beverly Hills, and was greeted by complimentary valet.

As bizarre as it may sound, even the waiting area by the valet oozed cool, with a mural of the Hollywood Hills, a white leather couch, and, oddly, a motorcycle. But it didn't even hold a candle to the rest of the Alo HQ building.

After riding the elevator from the parking garage to the main floor, the doors opened to reveal a lobby that was simultaneously dramatic and calm. The ceiling stretched six stories high, with dramatic windows that spread soft sunlight across every corner of the room. As my eyes swept from right to left, I spotted a majestic fig tree, meticulously curated racks of Alo apparel, a massive "alo" sculpture, and multiple seating areas that looked like they'd been plucked directly from a Restoration Hardware catalog. At the far left side of the lobby, I found the reception area, where I checked in for my class (admittedly, an uncharacteristic two hours early hey, I wanted to take full advantage of the amenities!).

I was told to wait wherever I liked in the lobby, so I plopped myself down in a nice sling chair to get through some work. Since I had some time to kill, I asked if there were any food spots nearby where I could grab lunch and then I was kindly offered a salad from Goop Kitchen, which was unbelievably tasty. I really want to stress that at this point I hadn't even left the LOBBY, and I was already wildly impressed.

When it came time for my class, my instructor found me and asked if I needed any Alo gear for the workout but being the overachiever I am, I'd opted to wear an Alo set I already owned to my appointment.

She led me through the brand's now iconic gym space. Let me paint a quick picture for you: At the entrance, there's a wall of "alo" branded boxing gloves on the left and a full mirror on the right. Then you weave through a few layers of strategically placed planters with palm trees before entering the gym space. The center floor of this gym is pretty much wide open (leaving space for boxing or other floor workouts), while the walls are punctuated by every fitness machine you could imagine. We, however, swung a left and walked into a private alcove tucked in the back right of the gym, equipped with three Pilates reformers.

I asked if it would be okay if I filmed and took some photos of our session together, and the instructor looked at me as if I'd asked if I could eat food in a restaurant. Not only was it okay, but she was ready to help me get that content she literally offered to take photos and videos of me as I moved through her class. So, I took her up on that offer.

She called out moves to me and gave suggestions on spring settings, just like any other Pilates class. However, every so often once she ensured my form and alignment were correct she'd grab my phone and take some photos and videos at different angles around the Pilates reformer. It's pretty clear she had this down to a science, knowing which moves and angles were best. At first I was a little weirded out by my instructor playing the role of videographer but after the first or second time I didn't even think twice about the camera, and just leaned into the whole experience.

Don't be fooled, though this class isn't simply a photo opp. After spending an hour moving through various moves on the reformer, my abs, arms, and legs were burning. I will note, however, this isn't your classical Pilates class it skews more on the modern, rigorous, fitness-forward side of the sport.

At the end of the workout, I got a tour of the rest of the Alo wellness space because the gym is only a fraction of everything they have at HQ. There are cold plunges, infrared saunas, a cryotherapy chamber, a snack station, recovery suite equipped with skincare and hair tools, a movie theater, and even a recording studio. Each space looks like a film set in its own right, with logos sprinkled throughout and a moody, organic modern aesthetic that falls somewhere between a spa and a nightclub.

The cherry on top: I was gifted a cozy Alo sweat set to change into, along with some skincare products and accessories (in the brand's iconic gray tie-dye bag, of course).

In short: the Alo gym is a true wellness wonderland.

I've taken a lot of fitness classes over the years, and I've seen plenty of people prop up their phones to record themselves but it's often met with varying degrees of annoyance from instructors and fellow class-goers.

This Pilates sesh at Alo, however, was an entirely new experience: Filming was not simply tolerated, but actually encouraged. At this particular gym, this policy is obviously in their best interest it's great marketing when celebs and influencers post fitness videos with the activewear brand's logo splashed across the background. But this experience did get me thinking: Is there some benefit to a gym space that's primarily intended for influencers?

Admittedly, as a journalist who's a bit newer to this whole "content" game, it was kind of, well, freeing. I felt significantly less self-conscious about having a camera pointed in my direction as I moved through pikes and planks.

Sure, it helped that I was the only attendee in the Pilates class, and I didn't have to worry about making anyone else uncomfortable. That said, just around the corner there were a few other people working out in the main gym space. But I didn't once feel awkward or worry about them judging me since, you guessed it, they were snapping photos and taking videos, too.

It was (dare I say) empowering to be in a space where I could uninhibitedly capture video of my experience. And honestly, with the camera rolling, I was even more conscious about maintaining proper form than I usually am and I'll take that as a win any day.

Does this mean we all need to unapologetically film our workouts in the name of confidence-building? Absolutely not. But, for anyone interested in recording a sweat session for social media be it for a job or hobby I think there may be a case for these types of spaces. Somewhere like Alo or other anointed "influencer gyms" are places where content creators can film away, without disrupting anyone else's workout. Perhaps, as strange as it may sound, these types of spaces can create a more universally positive workout experience for all.

But, in the meantime, I'll happily hang at the dreamy Alo gym anytime documented or otherwise.

Kristine Thomason is a lifestyle writer and editor based in Southern California. Previously, she was the health and fitness director at Mindbodygreen and the fitness and wellness editor at Women's Health. Kristine's work has also appeared in POPSUGAR, Travel + Leisure, Men's Health, Health, and Refinery29, among others.

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I Tried Working Out at the Alo Gym: See Photos - POPSUGAR

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Finding the time to exercise can be difficult.

New research reveals more than half of us are failing to hit the recommended 150 minutes of movement the NHS advises we do each week, so how do we get started?

Jill Scott won 161 caps for her country, was crowned Queen of the Jungle in Im A Celebrity and regularly commentates on both mens and womens football matches. And now, the sporting legend is getting us motivated to move.

Here are her top tips for keeping your mind, body and muscles focused when it comes to exercise

1. Write a fitness plan for the week

When I had big matches ahead of me, it would often become overwhelming, so Id try to take every week as it came with training, says the 37-year-old former pro footballer. Id recommend a similar strategy for anyone wanting to stick to a movement or exercise goal.

Rather than going too big with what you want to achieve, break your goal down into smaller chunks, and make sure you write a simple plan for that week, in terms of what exercise or movement you want to do each day. If you write something down, you are much more likely to stick to it.

2. If you dont feel like a workout just walk

You often feel under pressure to go for a long run or to go hard at the gym, says Scott. Whether youre a professional athlete or just starting out, if youre not in the mood, a simple walk or jog can help get the body moving, boost your cardiovascular fitness and clear your mind. Walks are an important mental reset time for me, so I try and do them as often as I can.

3. Limit screen time

I find it really easy to get wrapped up in my phone, she reveals, so I always limit my screen time to maintain a healthy balance. Excessive screen time can lead to disrupted sleep and decreased physical activity, so Id recommend taking regular screen breaks and limiting phone time before bed, so it supports your sleep and energy levels the next day.

4. Try Epsom salts

After a long day of training, I always used to treat myself to a hot bath with some Epsom salts, says Scott. Epsom salts have magnesium, which can help relax your muscles, reduce inflammation and lessen soreness. I also love a long bath for the way it helps you unwind after a tiring day.

5. Stretch daily

I know its tempting to skip a stretch if you are busy, but never overlook your stretches after exercise, she notes. As an athlete, I know the importance of flexibility and muscle recovery. Stretching daily can enhance your flexibility, reduce muscle tension and prevent injuries. Improved blood flow from regular stretching also helps alleviate stiffness and increases your range of motion.

6. Balance workouts and rest time

Intense workouts improve your strength, endurance and skills, but without proper rest, you risk overtraining, which can lead to fatigue and decreased performance, says Scott.

By incorporating rest days and prioritising sleep, you allow your body to repair and come back stronger. Rest days also support mental wellbeing. If you get the balance right, it can definitely help you stay motivated and focused.

7. Do things that make you happy!

Whether its kicking a ball around, dancing or swimming, my number one tip is to find what you enjoy and go for it. I guarantee that if you find your thing, youll keep at it longer. It definitely worked for me!

8. Give yourself a massage

Incorporate some form of massage into your weekly routine, even if its just rolling on a tennis ball when your muscles are aching, she says. Muscle recovery is important and massages and stretching play a big role in maintaining performance.

9. Make everyday healthy habits

The little things can all add up, says Scott: Incorporating more physical activity into your daily routine such as walking instead of driving helps boost your overall fitness and improves cardiovascular health. These small, consistent efforts add up, enhancing your endurance and keeping your body agile.

Holland & Barrett has teamed up with football legend Jill Scott and Sport Relief to challenge the nation this summer. To join the movement movement with Jill Scott and support their Sport Relief campaign, visit hollandandbarrett.com/info/sport-relief.

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Jill Scott: 9 top tips for finding (and keeping) your fitness mojo this summer - The Independent

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Both mother and son share an easygoing, no-frills attitude. Its mind over body. Anybody can do anything, she asserts. What about Konwar? She prefers yoga, I dont do yoga, Milind says, smiling. And I already know what hes going to say next. Its a little slow for me. Its a weakness I have that I cant slow down. Konwar seems to agree. It is amazing that Milind lives this kind of active life, but I believe that its also very important to be able to sit in a place quietly and just be with your thoughts. Unlike Glasgow-born Milind, Konwar grew up in a small town in Assam. Surrounded by thickets and lush terrain, she grew up climbing trees and swimming in rivers, which instilled in her a deep gratitude for the earth. Konwar is candid about solitude being instrumental in her journey.

I give mental health importance above all else. My mindfulness stems from being able to be by myself. Ive had so much time to reflect on my thoughts, she says. In the book, she explains how she learned that life is neither good nor bad. It is simply a series of light and dark experiences together. And it was her solitary time that allowed for this understanding. Milind and Konwar are known for their shared love of adventure, whether thats climbing Mt Kilimanjaro together, going deep-sea diving in the Red Sea or running marathons. I think thats what unites the three of usour explorers spirit, says Konwar. You can tell that this collective outlook is not tethered to mere routine but stems from an unshakeable desire to live more intentionally.

Shunning the traditional playbook, Milind says, People say, Oh, its like you dont age. But I have aged. I look at Made in India and say, Oh my goodness, who is this guy? Its interesting because none of us go to the gym. I dont have a trainer or a dietician. We dont do the conventional stuff. Theres no regimen. We even run barefoot. Milind believes in listening to his body and breaking typical conditioning. I want to learn whats best for me. I dont want anyone telling me that.

The book, Keep Moving, hits the stands on 21st June 2024.

Photographed by Manasi Sawant

Styled by Tania Fadte

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Milind Soman, Usha Soman and Ankita Konwar discuss fitness, a common love for adventure and their latest book - VOGUE India

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Its mentioned in every exercise guide worth its salt, and uttered by every fitness instructor youll ever meet, but how do you actually engage your core? Which muscles does it involve? Which exercises can it help with? When should you engage and when should you disengage? We asked three experienced personal trainers to unpack this standard advice to help you make the most of your next workout.

Quite simply, if you want to avoid injury when doing anything strenuous, and especially when exercising or playing sports, you need to learn how to engageor braceyour core.

Learning this will create "a strong midline that is vital for stabilizing, controlling and protecting your spine when performing daily tasks at home, within a workplace, at the gym or out exploring the world," says Kelli Vossler, director of fitness at Spark Fitness and Tennis in Andover, Massachusetts.

It can also help improve your posture throughout the day, "especially for people who are mostly seated for work, helping reduce wear and tear on the spine and alleviate lower-back pain," says Adam Enaz, personal trainer and transformation specialist.

But engaging your core isnt just for injury prevention or postural support. It can also help create a figurative forcefield around your spine, allowing you to transfer power from your lower to your upper bodyand vice versawhether performing a loaded squat or simply bearing the brunt of a heavy backpack.

"It's impossible to lift with intensity without engaging your corebut it's a skill you have to learn and even experienced exercisers can get it wrong," says Eddie Baruta, global head of gym floor personal training at Ultimate Performance.

(Image credit: AzmanL / Getty Images)

When people hear core they often think abs. This, says Baruta, is a common mistake. Someone might simply tense their rectus abdominis, the six-pack muscles that run along the front of your abdomen, hoping thatll do the trick. But perform any form of loaded squat, like a goblet squat or thruster, and that approach will soon be your undoing.

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Instead, Baruta prefers to talk about bracing the "trunk" muscles. "Think of your core as a balloon," he elaborates. "The top part is dominated by the diaphragm, the bottom by the pelvic floor, and the sides by the obliques and deep-lying transverse abdominis"also known as the cummerbund muscle of the abdomen.

When engaging your core, the objective is to recruit all these muscles in unison so your midline and spine are supported front and back, top and bottom.

Now weve covered the why and the which, its time to focus on the how. How do you effectively engage your core? To execute this, you should start with your breath.

When engaging your core you might assume you need to suck your belly in, but that's counterproductive. "Sucking your belly in or hollowing your tummy and pulling your belly button toward your spine creates dysfunction in your midsection," says Baruta. Instead, you need to breathe in while letting your belly rise.

To achieve this belly expansion, you need to take a deep diaphragmatic breath into the pit of your stomach, rather than a shallow breath into your chest. Baruta says a quick exercise to ensure the correct technique is to place one hand on your chest and another on your stomach. Breathe in and observe which hand rises first, then correct your breathing if necessary so that your belly rises as you inhale.

Next, with this breath, push your belly and lower back out. This is key. A tactile cue Vossler recommends here is to stand tall and place your hands on your obliques (your sides) just below the rib cage and press in slightly with your fingers against the side of your belly and thumbs against your lower back

Next, with your hands acting as a makeshift weight belt, allow your abdomen to expand front and back. "This is the same reaction youd have if bracing as if expecting to be punched in the belly," she adds. "In order for this to happen, the back and abdominals engage to create stability and protect the spine."

Effective core bracing should keep your spine in a neutral alignment, Baruta stresses. In other words, you should avoid overly arching or curving your back. Practice in a mirror to see if you can maintain this alignment when dropping into an unweighted squat.

With your abdomen pressed out and spine in neutral, bring your rib cage down slightly and push out further to create as much intra-abdominal pressure as you can. This will create a platform that will allow you to add load without getting bent out of shape.

Now you have the technique down, remember these cues to ensure youre safely engaging your core every time.

As Baruta has mentioned, bracing the core requires all the muscles of the trunk to "switch on", not just the muscles along the front of your stomach. Visualizing muscles on the front, back and sides of the torso tends to trigger his clients into engaging all the muscles around the spine.

Enaz uses this cue with clients just before they unrack a bar from the squat rack or bench press. "Imagine youre wearing a corset that wraps around your entire midsectionfront, back and sides," suggests Enaz. "Now tighten it. I find that this visualization cue helps my clients engage the entire core musculature, not just the front abs."

A cue Vossler likes to use with athletes is to "pull the rib cage down and slightly tuck the pelvis under". Also known as the "posterior tilt", she finds it especially handy for floor-based exercises to help athletes switch on their core muscles and realign the spine.

If youre relatively new to lifting, Baruta recommends only resetting your breath once youve returned to a safe position, such as the top of a squat. As you become more accustomed to the technique you can start to exhale forcefully as you drive to stand. With a push-up, however, "you can exhale slightly earlier, like letting out a balloon as you press the floor away," he says.

Breath in at the start of a rep and breath out at the end. If holding an isometric position, like with the plank exercise, Enaz recommends trying to breathe as normally as possible. "It can take practice to breathe naturally while bracing the core, but its vital to maintain proper oxygen flow during exercise," he says. Baruta prefers to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth each rep.

"Simply sucking in your stomach without properly engaging your deep core muscles will not effectively stabilize your spine or pelvis," warns Enaz.

Engaging your core doesnt mean tensing up as hard as you can. "Over-tightening can lead to other muscles compensating, which can throw off alignment and reduce the effectiveness of your engagement," says Enaz.

Forgetting to breathe is a surprisingly common mistake when trying to engage your coreespecially during isometric exercises like planks or wall sits. The risk is that it can "increase blood pressure and decrease performance," says Enaz. "Learn to breathe through the engagement."

With an exercise like a dumbbell-loaded squat or deadlift, you can hold your breath momentarily to maintain intra-abdominal pressure during the movement, but you should always take a new breath and reset your core engagement between reps.

(Image credit: SDI Productions / Getty Images)

Heres how incorporating all of these dos and don'ts to engage your core works in practice, with a dumbbell squat as the example.

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Eddie Baruta is global head of gym floor personal training at fitness business Ultimate Performance. Based in Los Angeles, Baruta has worked with high-profile clients including actors Dustin Hoffman, Lily Collins (Emily In Paris), Kevin McHale (Glee), Lamorne Morris (New Girl) and Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick).

Baruta graduated from the University of Bacu, Romania, in 2002 with a degree in Exercise Science and joined Ultimate Performance in 2010. Since then, Baruta has added qualifications including Premier Training International, Poliquin PICP 1&2 and Biosignature 1&2, Neurokinetic Therapy 1&2, Active Release Techniques 1&2 and Resistance Training Specialist (Mastery Level).

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Kelli Vossler is director of fitness at Spark Fitness and Tennis in Andover, MA, and a former competitive womens ice hockey player and coach. Accredited with the Health & Fitness Association, she has more than a decade of coaching experience, overseeing a community of over 2,000 members across multiple locations in Massachusetts.

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Adam Enaz is one of the only fitness professionals in the UK who is a practicing clinical dietitian and personal trainer, allowing him to offer a unique service to his clients based on scientific evidence and clinical expertise.

Training first as a dietitian and specializing in dietetics for cancer recovery and Type 1 and 2 diabetes management within the NHS, Enaz has trained as a Level 3 PT, gaining further specialisms in body transformation and weight management.

He splits his time between his NHS practices and online coaching, working with clients from America, Dubai and all across Europe.

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