Health & Beauty

Photo by Becca Matimba When you feel a bout of back pain creep in, is your first instinct to lay down and relax on the couch? You may want to rethink your backache Rx. “Our body responds to movement extremely positively and in a number of ways,” says Eric Robertson, PT, …

Photo: Pond5 Ask top trainers which muscles most people need to strengthen and they’ll probably say the hamstrings and glutes. And one of most effective ways they’ll teach you to fire up your backside is with a deadlift. “The deadlift is a functional move for anyone who has to regularly …

Photo: Twenty20 Diets designed for weight loss make big promises, like dropping pounds and boosting your health — without struggle or deprivation. And that’s one of the big draws of intermittent fasting diets, including the 5:2 Diet. RELATED: Does Intermittent Fasting Really Work? What the 5:2 Diet Is All About …

Photo by Nathaniel Chadwick Now that the weather is warmer, it’s time to ditch the treadmill and take your running workout to the beach. In addition to sweet views, vitamin D-soaked rays and energizing fresh air, running on the sand will give your body a whole new wave of challenges. RELATED: …

Photo: Twenty20 There are many reasons to love a good swim workout. It’s low-impact, makes your heart pound and it fires up literally every muscle in your body. Not to mention, swapping out land-based activities for aqua time is a great way to cross-train. However, working up a good sweat …

If you’ve ever wondered how you can combine your love for running with your thirst for international travel, we have your answer: running tours. These scenic runs take you through some of the world’s largest cities, revealing historic landmarks, alleyways, gardens and rivers to help you soak it all in. …

Photo: Pond5 Forget the treadmill. Stair-climbing machines are likely the most dreaded piece of cardio equipment in the gym, and for good reason: Trotting up step after step is tough work. But that’s exactly why you should add climbing to your fitness routine. Running up stairs makes for a high-charged …

Photo: Ryan Kelly / Barre Harmony The goal of ab exercises isn’t all about sculpting a six-pack or chiseling your middle. The core of every day movements comes from just that — your core. You need a solid midsection to stand upright, stay steady on your feet and twist and turn …

Photo: Pond5 Whether you stumble upon it trying to get over a fear of the water, or you decided to try it after being sidelined by an injury, swimming is an incredible sport that can be enjoyed by men and women of all shapes and sizes. “It’s comparable in calorie …

Photo: Twenty20 It’s good news that you’re weightlifting — and that goes double if your routine includes a barbell. “The barbell is one of the best pieces of equipment that will make you work the hardest and get you stronger,” says Mathew Forzaglia, a certified personal trainer at the Fhitting …