Latest news with #core
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Top Six Under-25 Cores In The NHL
The key to having a successful team in the NHL is drafting and developing young players so they can someday lead their team to glory, and some teams are way ahead of the game when it comes to young talent and a young core.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Forget the gym — you just need 6 minutes to strengthen your core with this Pilates abs workout
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Getty Images It's never easy to find the time and motivation to train, but almost all of us can spare six minutes to do a workout that doesn't require any equipment. When it comes to motivation, that's a bit trickier, but at least with this short session from Pilates instructor Lilly Sabri, you know that you'll be finished in next to no time, and you'll be pleased to have done it. Advertisement If you do want to roll out one of the best yoga mats, it will make the session more comfortable as you'll be doing the entire workout lying down. Don't be fooled into thinking it will be an easy ride just because it's only six minutes long, either. Sabri suggests this as an intermediate workout, and you can be sure your abs will feel the effects of it afterwards. Watch Lilly Sabri's 6-minute core workout There are six exercises in the workout, and they are broken up by short breaks while Sabri explains what move is coming up next. Sabri does the workout with you, setting a pace for the exercises and providing tips to help you push through and get the most from it, so make sure you can see your screen throughout. Advertisement With a short workout like this, it's important to maximize each move, so make sure your form is correct and you're moving at the right pace to engage your core muscles. The workout features a mix of leg raises and sit-ups, along with the Hundreds exercise, which is a classic Pilates core-burner. The session works the upper and lower abs, your obliques through twisting moves, and the deep core muscles. There are no planks or bridges in the session, with all moves performed from the same lying position to make it easier and faster to transition between exercises. If you can make it a regular addition to your weekly routine, perhaps doing the workout three or four times a week — that's still just 18-24 minutes of work a week — is a great way to get into the rhythm of training regularly, and you'll notice your core strength improving. Advertisement You can also use this short core routine as a finisher for a longer workout, to ensure your abs get some special attention after a full-body circuit, for example. Once you have completed the workout comfortably, it will be worth looking at longer sessions to keep progressing. Or you could even double up on this workout for a testing 12-minute session. If you enjoyed this Pilates-style workout and are looking for something longer, try this 20-minute core workout, which also improves your balance. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Forbes
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
‘Donkey Kong Bananza' Review: Have A Banana
This is easily one of the best platformers of recent years. The latest entry in the Donkey Kong series is a banana-fuelled blast, and may be one of the best platforming games in recent years. The main setup of the game has you control the titular Donkey Kong as he tackles the evil Void Company while venturing to the core of the planet to make things right. Developed by the team behind Super Mario Odyssey, Donkey Kong Bananza has a lot of functional and structural carry-overs from that game. Each new level, as you venture deeper into the planet, has distinct biomes and is effectively a mini-open-world layout. Now, in Super Mario Odyssey, you collected coins and moons to progress, whereas in Donkey Kong Bananza, it's more open-ended with additional currencies to choose from. The skill upgrades are as numerous as they are helpful. The currencies are also more functional here and are spread out over different areas of gameplay. The gold you mine goes into buying items, whereas fossils give you different clothes (which also afford differing attributes). The 'moons' in this instance are massive Banandium Gems, and these are used to upgrade a large and varied skill tree. This is because this game is as much about exploration as it is about destruction. The last game that nailed this kind of setup was the original Dragon Quest Builders, which still holds a fond place in my heart to this day. FEATURED | Frase ByForbes™ Unscramble The Anagram To Reveal The Phrase Pinpoint By Linkedin Guess The Category Queens By Linkedin Crown Each Region Crossclimb By Linkedin Unlock A Trivia Ladder Anyway, destroying an area in a fit of monkey rage is deeply satisfying and also gives you the currency for all the aforementioned upgrades. You also have fun challenges dotted around each area and tasks you have to complete in order to thwart the evil Void Company. Even as you tunnel underground, the camera keeps up fine. Boss fights are also ingenious and again help you satiate your banana-induced monkey rage. The game is also entirely massive and has a huge amount of replay value, as you go back and search for items and more Banandium Gems, so you definitely get your money's worth on this one. There's also a great musical component to the game, as Donkey Kong and Pauline sing songs, which makes for a lovely and characterful experience. As this is a new Switch 2 game, it does look lovely and runs very smoothly considering all the deformable terrain at work here. Controls are also very fluid, and the camera handles all the crazy bespoke tunnelling you do pretty well. Overall, Donkey Kong Bananza does what Super Mario Odyssey did before it: offer one of the best platforming games available on a new system. The fact that the bulk of the game is about wanton joyous destruction is also another big bonus. So, if you want to tunnel to the center of the planet and destroy most of it along the way, Donkey Kong Bananza is your kind of platformer. Donkey Kong Bananza Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 Developer: Nintendo EPD Publisher: Nintendo Released: 17th July 2025 Price: $69.99 Score: 9/10 Disclosure: Nintendo sent me a copy of this game for the purposes of this review. Follow me on X, Facebook and YouTube. I also manage Mecha Damashii and am currently featured in the Giant Robots exhibition currently touring Japan.
Yahoo
20-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Trainers Say This Everyday Activity Is Secretly Amazing for Your Core
Trainers Say This Everyday Activity Is Secretly Amazing for Your Core originally appeared on Parade. While exercises like crunches and sit-ups can effectively target your core and abdominal muscles, they're not exactly anyone's favorite exercises. And they might not even be necessary if you're already doing some other specific movements during your day. After all, many people tend to overlook the fact that there are everyday activities that you may already do (or can do if you're not already) that can activate your midsection and maybe even give you six-pack abs. Although many day-to-day activities target your core muscles, Parade tapped personal trainers to learn even more about the one they deem most effective, best practices to adhere to when performing this daily task to maximize your results, and how to know when (or if) you're overexerting to dive in? 🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊 The Everyday Activity That's Secretly Amazing for Your Core, According to Trainers All of our experts agree that carrying (or lifting) a heavy load (especially on one side of your body) is secretly amazing for your core. Carrying groceries serves as an excellent example of this. 'This mimics a farmer's carry [exercise],' explains and trainer at Form Fitness Brooklyn. 'In this exercise, you hold heavy weights in your hands while standing tall and walking."'Your body is going to adapt and activate its deep core stabilizers to keep you staying upright, balanced, and moving [when carrying groceries]," says Alexis Iannucci, NASM, CPT, New York City-based certified personal trainer. 'Without even thinking about it, your core is working overtime to resist rotation and maintain your posture.' She adds that you're working several different core muscles when participating in this activity, including the transverse abdominis (or deep core muscles), obliques and rectus abdominis. To put it simply, movements (or in this case, activities) that cause your core to work to resist force help its muscles grow stronger. Related: While carrying groceries, a child or luggage (especially in one hand) can target your core, there are other everyday activities you shouldn't count out. Holly Roser, NASM, CPT, certified personal trainer and owner of Holly Roser Fitness Studios in New York City and San Francisco, adds that other activities, including walking uphill, can also successfully engage your core. 'Walking uphill requires stabilization of your trunk, causing your core to activate more than walking on flat ground," she says. How to Maximize This Everyday Activity While you don't have to put too much thought into carrying your groceries (if you don't want to), doing so can help you maximize results when it comes to targeting your core. Unless you're seriously in a rush to get your groceries back home, you should focus on taking it slow. 'Most people go through carries as fast as they can, but we end up losing form and not using the core when we speed through it,' explains Jane VanderVoot, NASM, CPT, CFSC, a certified personal trainer and founder of Movement & Mindset. 'Imagine you're walking on the moon and go slowly to get the most bang for your buck." Although you can hold your bags of groceries down at your sides and still see results, Stephen Holt, CSPS, personal trainer at and the owner of 29 Again Custom Fitness, says that you can make the time you spend carrying your groceries even more effective by holding the bags at shoulder level.'The higher (in altitude the weight, the tougher the exercise is,' he 'I'm a Personal Trainer and This Is the One Workout I'll Never, Ever Do' Your form matters (yes, even when carrying groceries). Harvey notes that you should always brace your core as you stand upright and be mindful of not having your feet cross over one another while walking. Vandervoort and Harvey note that even intentionally carrying your groceries once or twice a week can lead to positive and consistent results over time. 'Favoring one side isn't ideal; trying to alternate sides or distributing weight evenly helps prevent asymmetry and imbalances," adds Iannucci. Related: Trainers Are Begging You to Stop Making This Super-Common Exercise Mistake That said, , a Los Angeles-based performance coach and certified personal trainer, notes that you want to ensure you're taking diaphragmatic breaths and are sure not to push your body (especially if it hasn't recovered or is in recovery mode). Roser adds that the same diaphragmatic breaths should go for uphill or incline walking too. Up Next: Sources: Keri Harvey, NASM CPT, a trainer at Form Fitness Brooklyn. Holly Roser, NASM CPT, a certified personal trainer and owner of Holly Roser Fitness Studios in New York City and San Francisco. Alexis Iannucci, NASM CPT, a New York City-based certified personal trainer. Stephen Holt, CSPS, personal trainer at and the owner of 29 Again Custom Fitness. Jane VanderVoort, NASM CPT, CFSC, a certified personal trainer and founder of Movement & Mindset. Keith Hodges, NASM CPT, a Los Angeles-based performance coach and certified personal trainer. Trainers Say This Everyday Activity Is Secretly Amazing for Your Core first appeared on Parade on Jul 19, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
Health Line
01-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Everything You Need to Know About Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates uses a sliding platform and springs to deliver a full-body, low impact workout that builds strength, balance, and flexibility. Pilates is a low impact method of exercise that focuses on core control, flexibility, and breath to create balanced, efficient movement. It was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Traditional Pilates is most often performed on a yoga mat. On the other hand, reformer Pilates applies these principles to a spring-loaded carriage machine called a reformer. This versatile machine adds adjustable resistance to every motion to better challenge your balance, build full-body strength, and hone concentration in ways a mat alone can't. Keep reading to learn more about the core principles of reformer Pilates, who it's for, its benefits and risks, and how to get started. What is reformer Pilates? Reformer Pilates is a form of Pilates that uses a spring-loaded machine to add resistance and support to classic movements. It follows six core principles: Concentration: Full mental focus on each exercise. Control: Precise, deliberate movement. Centering: Power from the 'core' (deep abdominals, hips, low back). Flow: Smooth, continuous motion. Precision: Exact alignment and technique. Breathing: Coordinated inhale and exhale to energize muscles. A Pilates reformer is a resistance apparatus with a padded platform called a carriage that moves back and forth on rails. Springs can be adjusted to change the level of resistance. There's a footbar for pushing off, shoulder blocks to help keep your body in place, and straps or handles you can use with your hands or feet. All of these parts work together to give you a full-body workout that's low impact but builds strength, balance, and flexibility. Reformer Pilates is most commonly done at Pilates studios, where certified instructors guide small classes using professional equipment. Some gyms also offer reformer classes, though availability can be limited. If you prefer to work out at home, reformer machines are available to buy in a range of styles and prices. Many brands also offer virtual classes or video tutorials, making it easier to practice at home with proper guidance. What are the benefits of reformer Pilates? Reformer Pilates may have several physical, psychological, and metabolic health benefits: Builds body strength and endurance: Targets the core, arms, legs, glutes, and back while improving stamina using resistance springs. Improves posture and alignment: Encourages body awareness and spinal support. Boosts flexibility and mobility: Promotes safe stretching and joint support. Enhances balance and coordination: Challenges stability on the moving carriage. Relieves tension and chronic pain: Especially helpful for the back and neck. May reduce stress-related oxidative damage: This is with regular, moderate-intensity activity. May improve blood lipid profiles: This includes a rise in HDL 'good' cholesterol and lower insulin levels. Improves brain health: This may include memory, thinking speed, and concentration. How does reformer Pilates compare to mat Pilates? Both types of Pilates provide many health benefits. But there are key differences between the two, which can make one type more appropriate or beneficial for you. Mat Pilates Traditional Pilates is usually done on a yoga mat, either at home or in a studio. PRO LIST Accessible: Can be done at home with just a mat — no special equipment needed. More affordable: Free or low cost videos are available online, so no studio fees are required. Builds foundational strength: Focuses on core control and bodyweight resistance. Travel-friendly: Easy to take your practice anywhere. Reformer Pilates Reformer Pilates is performed using a reformer machine. It's most often performed in a studio or gym, but can also be done at home if you have a reformer. Pro List Adjustable resistance: Springs allow for customized intensity and targeted muscle engagement. Supportive for injuries: The sliding carriage and straps help reduce pressure on joints. Greater variety: Allows a broader range of movements and exercise options. Boosts precision: Guides alignment and encourages correct form. Who is reformer Pilates for? Reformer Pilates may suit a wide range of people, including beginners, athletes, older adults, and people recovering from injuries or treatment. For instance, a 2025 study found that soccer players experienced increased agility, passing, and single-leg hopping after following an 8-week Pilates program. The researchers concluded that reformer Pilates, in particular, was more beneficial than mat Pilates. A 2018 study also found that reformer Pilates may be beneficial for preventing falls in older adults and people with limited mobility by improving posture, strength, and balance. Lastly, reformer Pilates may help reduce pain, increase function, and improve quality of life in people living with chronic pain, such as back pain and fibromyalgia. If you're unsure about whether reformer Pilates is right for you, consider speaking with a doctor, personal trainer, or licensed Pilates instructor. They can help you decide whether Pilates is right for you and offer you guidance on the best types of exercises. What are the possible risks of reformer Pilates? Reformer Pilates is generally safe, but there are some risks to consider. Injuries can happen if the equipment is used incorrectly or if exercises are done without proper form. It may also be unsafe for people who: are pregnant have a spinal condition are injured or have just undergone surgery Consider speaking with a doctor before starting a new exercise regimen to help prevent any possible physical, cardiovascular, or psychological complications. Examples of a reformer Pilates workout Reformer Pilates is usually done in a studio or class with an instructor at the front guiding the routine. The workout usually lasts 45 to 60 minutes and includes a warm-up, resistance work, and a cool-down. There are many different types of classes to suit all abilities. Here are some popular reformer Pilates exercises that you might do: Footwork: Lying on your back, push the carriage away with your feet, working your legs and glutes while engaging your core. Leg circles: With your feet in the straps, make controlled circular motions to improve hip mobility and strengthen your core. Arm springs: Sitting or lying on the carriage, pull the springs through various arm movements to build upper body strength and shoulder stability. Short spine massage: Lying on your back with feet in straps, roll your spine up and down the carriage, enhancing spinal flexibility and core control.
