Latest news with #Lounge
Mint
10 hours ago
- Health
- Mint
How to turn your home into a gym with just one kettlebell and 5 great workouts
Kettlebell training has come a long way over the last few years. Part of the reason could be the pandemic, when people realised that just this one piece of equipment could turn into a whole gym if used smartly. Part of the reason is that functional training becoming more important even in regular gyms. And of course, a third reason is social media, where kettlebell experts have found an audience for the kind of training they do. In fact, I wrote a story for Lounge three years ago that focused on kettlebell-only training, so it's time to update that list with another 'workouts of the month" with a little twist: only a single kettlebell will be needed for every workout. Maximilian's 30-minute workout After following many fitness experts, MaximilianMoves seems to be the best page for kettlebell workouts. While the comment section on his posts are full of doubts about whether his body is built entirely on kettlebell exercises, it is just wise to focus on how incredibly good his work is. With over 600,000 followers on Instagram, Maximilian's videos are becoming very popular and there is good reason to follow him. It was tough to choose one video from his collection, but the one below, which he recommends to do for 30 minutes, is perfect if you want to find out what a kettlebell workout looks and feels like. A post shared by Maximilian 🇸🇰 (@maximilianmoves) There are five exercises to be done for six minutes each with a single kettlebell. In his caption, he defines the exercises from the first being for 'Power (kettlebell swings & explosive lifts)", the second for rotational strength and core control, the third is an isometric holds for the joints, the fourth 'mobility flows (move pain-free)" and the fifth a 'slow muscle builder (controlled hypertrophy)". Also Read How to master the drop jump and work with gravity to increase your strength and speed It sounds complicated and not beginner friendly but that doesn't mean one can't start off with this routine with way lighter weights. Get used to a light kettlebell and push on from you're into something simpler, then try this one exercise from the same creator. A post shared by Maximilian 🇸🇰 (@maximilianmoves) Alex Crockford's 35-minute kettlebell muscle-building workout Alex Crockford's page is a repository of some brilliant workout videos, especially exercises that require minimal equipment and space. This particular workout operates on a 40-seconds-on, 20-seconds-off format and starts with a nice short warm-up, followed by the main routine which is around half an hour long. Crockford takes time to teach the moves in the first set of the three that will be attempted, including technique, especially because kettlebell training involves a lot of hip work. He starts off with kettlebell cleans, moves into swings, and then RDLs. This gives you a gist of what to expect in this workout. For those who might need to feel as if they're lifting, this demands the exact amount of effort if not more. It comes equipped with a finisher set of push-ups and jump squats, and ends with a nice stretching routine. Oli McCann's 15-minute upper body workout Some days are just upper body days, and for that there's this 15-minute drill that can be done as a standalone workout, or at the start or end of a longer workout. It's done in a 30-seconds-on, 10-seconds-off format and hits every muscle, including some good core work as well, with planks and drags and rotations.I've used this one as a warm-up and could surely feel more prepared for the remaining workout. If one round isn't enough, then do it twice. Also Read What is the Khaos push-up routine and what makes it a great full body workout Juice & Toya's 20-minute full body workout The deadlift and catch, the drop squat-plus-curl, and lots of other fun exercises are part of this routine from Juice & Toya. Although it's not marketed as a single kettlebell workout, it still is one, and it has a lot of high energy moves done in an even shorter tabata format of 20-seconds-on, 10-seconds-off. That's what makes this one such a favourite if you want to sweat it out, plus it is divided into muscle groups which keeps that hypertrophy goal in mind as well. Daniel PT's kettlebell abs workout If it's only the core you want to target, then Daniel PT replaces his usual high-octane workouts with a calmer more focussed abs workout using a single kettlebell. With easy moves like drops to the side and some drags, he introduces a couple of tough variations of the Russian twist for the main challenge, along with some leg raises. A really good abs workout if you're looking for one, and can also be used at the end of a workout. Pulasta Dhar is a football commentator, writer and podcaster. Also Read How to strengthen your lower back and glutes and avoid injuries with back extensions
Mint
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Mint
Get your cues for ocean-inspired fashion here
We are a little over a week away from celebrating World Ocean's Day that is celebrated annually on 8 June. The central theme for the year is 'Sustainable Fishing Means More…" to raise awareness about sustainable fishing practices that will ensure the 'the health and abundance of marine resources for generations to come" states the Marine Stewardship Council. As conversations around protecting our oceans continue to gain ground year on year, it would also be timely to talk about how the expansive ocean and the marine life it holds in its depths have inspired fashion designers over the years. The 'mermaidcore' aesthetic that comes in iridescent colours and uses motifs of seashells and clams and pearls was a popular micro-trend a few years back. But every year, the refreshing tones of the ocean, from sea green to deep blue, and fascinating sea life including seahorses, starfishes, dolphins, whales, clown fishes and even sea weed have all been embroidered, stitched, moulded or painted onto multiple silhouettes. Lounge's round up shows you how you can add elements of marine life to add a splash of whimsy and joy into your wardrobe. Also read: Want to add a touch of Art Deco to your wardrobe? Here's some inspiration MANTA TIME Seiko's limited edition range seeks to raise money for ocean conservation efforts. What better way to have fun with this than with the iconic Seiko Turtle dive watch with an engraved blue dial featuring Manta Rays? Available on ₹54,000. MERMAID MODEL Inspired by amorphous glowing marine forms, this top by designer Amit Aggarwal is meticulously crafted in handwoven metallic polymer. Pair the top with pants or a fitted skirt for a statement-making look. Available on ₹54,500. HELLO NEMO If you are a fan of the movie, Finding Nemo here's a bag you'll find irresistable. This sea creature-inspired bag from label Anya Hindmarch has a recycled-satin base, leather trims, fin-shaped drawstrings and is embellished with pink and lime paillettes and crystal-encrusted eyes. Available on ₹1.14 lakh. SHE SELLS 9 SHELLS Nothing screams ocean-inspired fashion louder than accessories adorned with shells. Exude chill beach babe vibes with this necklace from Chloé crafted in vintage gold brass features nine shell pendants in various shapes around a short chain. A logo plate finishes this piece. Available on ₹1.06 lakh. Also read: Monsoon style: Boots and brollies BEACH-CODED If you are a beach person, your holiday wardrobe should have a few pieces of clothing with sea-inspired prints and patterns. Like this Versace gathered, stretch-jersey midi skirt. Featuring Barocco elements with coral, starfish and shell motifs and Medusa '95 hardware on the front wrap panel, pair it with a matching top or a white tank top. Available on ₹53,366. FISH FACE Crafted from glass, this quirky water green-hued jar seems life-like thanks to features like a set of fins and texture to resemble scales. Use it to store sweets or as a decorative feature and add some quirky humour into your home decor. Available on ₹12,503. DIVE BOMB Whether you are swimming in a pool in your apartment or bathing in the sea, a little element of fashion by way of swimming trunks is always a good idea. This pair of swim shorts with drawstring waist and all-over sea animals pattern from Emporio Armani is a neat addition. Available on ₹10,580. BEAD THE WAY Starfish are fascinating creatures - they are not fish, don't have brains or blood and can live up to 35 years. They also make for pretty motifs on any item of clothing or shoes. This pair of Valentino Garavani espadrilles crafted with fabric upper and leather lining look even more lively thanks to the neon-pink beaded starfish embellishments. Available on ₹51,170. Also read: Indian women's power dressing awaits a makeover
Mint
24-05-2025
- Health
- Mint
How to master the drop jump and work with gravity to increase your strength and speed
Fitness routines can seem as if they are only geared towards the body working against gravity in order to work the muscles. Popular examples of these are incline walks and box jumps and hill runs. But these are not the only way to use gravity to your advantage; you can also do so by practicing landing exercises. And there is one exercise in particular that takes the cake when it comes to its overall effect on the body, which goes beyond just the ability to withstand force. This is the drop jump. The drop jump, or the death drop as it is also known, is one of the most popular exercises among those who want to work on their strength and speed. The ease of learning the exercise and modifying it while jumping from a height, with very little equipment, makes it one of the first moves that runners learn when they start getting serious about the activity. I wrote a piece for Lounge on landing and its importance in December 2021, which included multiple exercises that can help in landing during plyometric training. The drop jump is more specific though, as it eventually progresses to a drop jump followed by a box jump. The exercise is probably also the most risk free plyometric move that even beginners can accommodate in their routine. That said, be careful. Also Read How you can jump correctly by learning how to land You can start doing this off a bench as well, or any platform for that matter, including stairs. Just make sure you're wearing the right footwear, or you can train this barefoot. There are many studies that show that doing plyometrics without shoes can increase the activation of foot muscles and decrease the load on the knees. 'For individuals unaccustomed to barefoot activity or those with weaker intrinsic foot muscles who wish to improve their foot strength, commencing barefoot with lower-intensity plyometrics such as Pogo variations, low box jumps, or hopping may be prudent before advancing to higher-intensity exercises like bounding and depth jumps," says a health+high performance article on the topic. However you choose to do it, start with a low height so the body learns to recognise the sensation of landing. The technique will get better over time but the execution is simple. Here's what to do: get on the platform and then let one leg hang over the edge in preparation for the landing and just jump, making sure you land in a soft cushioned quarter squat. It's fair to wonder if that's all there is to the entire exercise. There is one more step though—and it's so much fun. Because as soon as you land, you make sure you take a small spot jump after. Also Read What is the Khaos push-up routine and what makes it a great full body workout Running and strength training coach Lucy Molloy recently posted the findings of a fascinating 2019 research about death drop jumps in an Instagram post which also shows how she does the exercise. She cites the study, Effects Of Plyometric Training On The Performance Of 5-km Road Runners, published in the Journal of Physical Education and Sport, which trialled 24 runners and split them into three groups. The group which did this exercise as part of their plyometric protocol showed stunning results in increase of speed. These are the results: The run-only group showed an average 4.75s improvement; the run and squat jump group showed an improvement of 140.5 seconds and the run and drop jump group showed a 170.63s improvement. 'The benefit of death drop jumps to runners is it increases the capacity of explosive strength and also works to decrease foot contact time with the ground, ultimately decreasing the amount of energy used for a given speed," Molloy writes in her post. A post shared by LUCY MOLLOY (@lucymolloypt) Executing the drop jump is in itself is quite easy when you consider the scale of other exercises that also work on increasing speed and running mechanics. And even the progressions are quite interesting. The death-jump-to-box-jump is the best progression. It is challenging, works up a sweat, and makes your lower body coordinated when it comes to quick movements. The difference here is that you do the drop off a bench, and then jump straight onto a box, using the upwards momentum from the landing to fuel the jump onto the box. There is also a playground element to this exercise. Very much like turning large tyres in a functional training session, or slamming them with a hammer. Doing drop jumps with a circle of gym friends can give in to a childlike excitement of executing the perfect landing and jump and the challenges can keep increasing. For example, one could use ankle weights to do them and get stronger. There are many exercises that can help amp your speed up, but none is simpler than the drop jump. Pulasta Dhar is a football commentator, writer and podcaster. Also Read How to strengthen your lower back and glutes and avoid injuries with back extensions
Mint
21-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
‘Indians are open to innovation rooted in tradition': Lladró's global CEO
When Lladró, the Spanish luxury maker of artistic porcelain figurines, sculptures, lighting and home decor, launched its first store in (Mumbai) India in the early 2000s, the country was nowhere close to being considered a luxury market. But one thing that Lladró did a few years ahead of coming to India—a decision that in hindsight can be termed as 'thoughtful' —was launching the Spirit of India collection. Inspired by Hindu traditions, the collection offered the Indian customer handcrafted figurines of gods and goddesses among other works with a pronounced Indian theme. Priced between ₹8500 (for decorative plates) to ₹9,00,000 for the Rama-Sita limited edition sculpture, the Spirit of India collection helped the brand gain inroads into India. Also read: Sephora's global CEO Guillaume Motte has big plans for India 'The Divinity collection remains one of our top sellers in India, particularly our renditions of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi," says Ana Rodríguez Nogueiras, global CEO of Lladró in an email interview with Lounge. According to an official press note, India is the third-largest market for the brand and contributes 13% to its global revenue. Not just that, over the last two decades, the brand's presence in the country has expanded from one store to nine, across major Indian metros of New Delhi, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata. Last month, Lladró inaugurated its newest boutique at DLF The Chanakya, New Delhi. This 616 sq. ft-big venue is the fourth one in the NCR Region. And this is in addition to their boutique in New Delhi that's touted to be the second largest boutique in the world. 'The NCR region—and New Delhi in particular—has always been one of Lladró's strongest markets, both in terms of appreciation for craftsmanship and deep cultural alignment with our values," reveals Rodríguez Nogueiras about the brand's focus on the Capital. In this interaction, she also fields questions about the evolution of the Indian customer, Lladro's artistic collaborations, and the best thing about the job she's been helming for close to a decade. Edited excerpts: Lladró has been in India for over two decades. Based on your observations and interactions, what are some unique things that set the Indian customer apart from someone in Europe or the US? India has been a part of Lladró's journey for over two decades, and in that time, we have witnessed an evolution in the profile of the Indian customer, from primarily traditional art collectors to a more diverse audience that includes younger design-conscious buyers and collectors of contemporary art. What sets Indian clients apart is their strong emotional connection to meaningful pieces, their appreciation for detail, and their openness to innovation rooted in tradition. The kind of detailing that goes into the 'Spirit of India' sculpture collection is awe-inspiring. Since you have only one workshop in Valencia, what is the kind of cultural training that's given to your artists? Our only workshop is indeed in Valencia, but Lladró's creative process is deeply collaborative, and research driven. When we create culturally significant pieces like those in the 'Spirit of India' collection, our artists and designers work closely with cultural consultants, historians, and local experts. It is a meticulous process that involves studying iconography, gestures, meanings, and rituals, always with great respect. The result is not just a beautiful piece, but one that resonates. In India, are the Divinity figurines still the best sellers? What are some other creations that have sold well here? Yes, the Divinity collection remains one of our top sellers in India, particularly our renditions of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. However, we have also seen growing interest in our contemporary design pieces—especially lighting and home accessories—as well as our collaborative works likeThe Guest, which have found a following among younger collectors. Also read: Neo-punk jewellery gets a touch of Indian grandeur Is the 'Personalise You Lladró' initiative that you've started a bid to make art more accessible to your customers here?'Personalize Your Lladró' is a new initiative around one of our most iconic designs: the Firefly cordless lamp. It's an opportunity to offer a more personal touch within a controlled framework, allowing each piece to reflect the taste or sentiment of the person choosing it. While personalization is not a general option across the entire catalogue, this project opens the door to a more expressive and emotionally resonant experience, something that speaks to the evolving definition of luxury. Lladro's image has pivoted from just being a company that makes beautiful porcelain figurines to one that 'creates art' out of porcelain with your creative collaborations. Are these artistic collaborations the way forward for the brand? Collaborations are not just part of the future; they are part of our DNA today. Lladró is evolving from a brand known for figurative porcelain to a creative platform where tradition meets contemporary expression. Through artistic collaborations, we have expanded our creative language and connected with new audiences—while remaining true to our roots in craftsmanship. How do you choose the artists to work with? We look for artists who resonate with Lladró's values: vision, originality, and a deep respect for material. The creative process is always a dialogue—artists bring their ideas, and our artisans bring technical mastery. It is a beautiful exchange that leads to works likeThe Guest(byJaime Hayon), which continues to grow as a platform for artistic diversity. You did a collaboration with Loewe Perfumes last year, making floral porcelain bottle toppers for them. How exciting was that collaboration? It was a beautiful project and a very meaningful one. We created handcrafted porcelain floral bottle toppers that reflected both Loewe's botanical inspiration and Lladró's craftsmanship. It was a perfect meeting point between art, fragrance, and design, and a great example of how we can bring artistry into other luxury domains. Also read: The key to unlocking India's luxury market What does a day in your life look like? How often do you meet the creative team to brainstorm new ideas and see what they are working on? Every day is different—but one constant is the proximity to our creative team. Whether it is reviewing new prototypes, discussing trends, or exploring collaborations, there is a strong sense of shared vision. I find those moments—when ideas become tangible—truly energizing. You've been at the helm of Lladro for close to a decade. What continues to be the best thing about the job? And what's a recent Lladro creation that left you awe-inspired? What remains most exciting is the emotion that Lladró pieces awaken in people. Even after all these years, seeing how craftsmanship, storytelling, and innovation come together to create something meaningful is deeply rewarding. One recent piece that left me in awe is Ephemeral Treasures, a powerful reflection on the fragility of nature, created with the artist Dulk. It shows how far porcelain can go as a language of contemporary art. Also read: Elevate your style with embroidered accessories. Here's how
The Irish Sun
18-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Inside Thai resort nestled high in the mountains with tree top dining, mesmerising views and secluded hidden beach
ARRIVING at the five star Amari resort for our honeymoon hidden on a secluded beach in Patong, Phuket was heart-stopping. The staff greeted us with smiles in the breath-taking reception area overlooking the Andaman Sea. 9 The Amari overlooks the turquoise sea of the Andaman Sea Credit: Amari Phuket 9 The resort is located within a five minute walk to Patong Beach Credit: Amari Phuket 9 It's hidden high in the mountains Credit: Amari Phuket 9 Dining in The Tree Pods was unforgettable Credit: COLLECT I was taken back with the resort's seamless blend of contemporary Our Coral Lounge Ocean Suite had floor-to-ceiling windows that filled the room with natural light. And the mesmerising views of Patong Bay looked postcard perfect. The citrus smells as we walked into the room made us feel like we had arrived in paradise. READ MORE ON TRAVEL I then spotted the staff left some snacks and goodies for us and a gorgeous honeymoon towel display on the bed. With three swimming pools and private We spent hours by each of the pools everyday, taking in the atmosphere. The more we walked around the resort, the more we kept on discovering. Most read in News Travel A major perk is the resort is so spacious, no area is overcrowded. There was plenty of romantic spots including deck chairs by the beach and a gigantic swing stretching out over the ocean. 'Get ready for your next getaway' cry Dunnes bosses over new 'travel must have' for just €15 Food options at the Amari Phuket included Italian Fine Dining at La Gritta, Southern Thai cuisine at Rim Talay and stylish aperitifs at The Jetty. For us, we enjoyed a very romantic meal dining by the sea at La Gritta, with the stars twinkling above us. I enjoyed a Bistecca T-Bone di Black Angus Steak and the Taruflo al Cioccolato cake was divine. Another stand out experience for us was having afternoon tea in The Tree Pods. We followed a They were uniquely designed with eco-friendly material and in a boat-shape pod, high above the trees. We really felt like we were in our own little world together and away from it all, in the middle of some of the most scenic views, getting to spend time together in Thai paradise. Location: Stay there: Hidden on a secluded beach, Amari Phuket is in a prime location in Patong's southernmost corner surrounded by the Andaman Sea. Less than an hour's drive from Phuket International Airport, the resort is set within a five minute walk to Patong Beach while Phuket Town and the island's popular attractions are easily accessible. Patong Beach 1 km 5 mins Wat Chalong (Chalong Temple) 20 km 30 mins Phuket Town 15 km 25 mins Phromthep Cape 20 km 40 mins Waking up to the Continental, American and Asian breakfasts overlooking the ocean was a treat. With half a la carte and half buffet, the choices were endless. I was treated to a serene massage in the Breeze Spa. The spa itself is nestled high on the mountain top among the trees and oozes tranquillity. But for those seeking more activity, the FIT Centre and scuba diving centre won't disappoint. We ventured to Patong Town numerous times during our stay. It was bustling with shops, restaurants and bars. After sunset, Bangla Road closes off to traffic and becomes a party street. The It really was one experience after the other that made it a honeymoon of dreams. GET THERE: GET THERE: Emirates or Etihad. STAY THERE: DO THERE: Thai night market and snorkelling. EAT THERE: La Gritta or Rim Talay at Amari Phuket. 9 Unwinding at the Breeze Spa was pure bliss Credit: Amari Phuket 9 There was plenty to explore throughout the resort Credit: COLLECT 9 The staff kept surprising us during our stay Credit: COLLECT 9 The resort boasts six different restaurants and bars Credit: Amari Phuket 9 The Amari is less than an hour's drive from Phuket International Airport Credit: Amari Phuket
