8 KEY TRAINING TIPS WE LEARNED IN 2024

From the critical need for cardio to smart tactics for mental health protection and savvy ways to build core strength. Here are 8 key training takeaways from the past 12 months.

Why ‘huff and puff’ exercise is essential

Researchers have unearthed fresh reasons we can’t afford to cut cardio. Put simply, cardiovascular fitness is probably the most important type of fitness for good health. When cardiovascular fitness is low, there’s an increased likelihood of chronic conditions such as heart failure, depression, diabetes, dementia, or even early death. Discover Cardio Peak Training, one of the most beneficial ways to build cardiovascular fitness.

The breathing technique that makes you stronger

Turns out you can breathe your way to a stronger core. When you learn to breathe ‘the Pilates way’ it leads to higher muscle activation in the abdominals and back while helping to fast-track feelings of strength, calm and control. Pick up Pilates breathing tips and learn what makes it so unique and beneficial.

How to overcome low energy availability syndrome

All over the planet, dedicated exercisers are seeing their training efforts go to waste (and their health at risk) due to Low Energy Availability and a complex syndrome known as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport. Nutrition scientist Penny Matkin-Hussey explained how much of the risk can be pinned on not eating enough – and how to spot if you’re at risk. Find out if you should be eating more.

The easy way to cut the risk of back pain

85% of us will suffer lower back pain in our lifetimes. Now, thanks to new research, we know that walking three times a week to ease back pain can significantly cut your risk of ongoing suffering. Another helpful approach is to cut sedentary time and focus on building abdominal strength, control and muscular endurance. Discover more about the specific actions that will cut your chances of suffering back pain.

How pro trainers use exercise to transform their mindset

For some it's lifting weights to lighten their mental load, others find high-intensity will heighten their happiness. Exercise professionals choose different ways to move when they want to shift their mindset – and there’s plenty of science showing how different activities protect our mental health. Find out five powerful ways different types of exercise help our mental wellness.

The smart way to ease anxiety and get rid of exam stress

Forget last-minute cramming, a new study reveals how a short taste of BODYBALANCE™ can help you to overcome assessment anxiety. Researchers have identified how practicing yoga can spark changes in the part of the brain called the amygdala. This offsets the fight or flight activity so other parts of the brain can continue to function. Get the exact stress-relieving prescription.

Exercise protects our mental health better than counseling or medication

When it comes to taking action to improve your mental health, exercise is proving hard to beat. Australian researchers have linked physical activity to a 43% reduction in mental health symptoms and found exercise to be 50% more effective than counseling or medication for managing depression. Find out more ways exercise protects your mental and physical health.

How to milk a gym membership for wellness perks

Focusing on the latest wellness trends can be expensive and complicated, while putting you at risk of ‘wellbeing overwhelm. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are five simple steps that you can take to tap into a world of wellness already at your fingertips. Learn the five simple steps.