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CNA
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- CNA
I took a 4-day men's haircutting course for the first time – here's what I learnt (apart from failure)
Learning a new skill that has nothing to do with your day job is the quickest way to be humbled. Or so I realised after attending a men's haircutting course at the Kimage Hairdressing School earlier this year. I was influenced to sign up after seeing a friend, who'd finished the same course previously, use her newfound skills on her very trusting male partner. The final product appeared passable by salon standards, at least according to a photo of his haircut; and doable by my standards, according to my lack of self-awareness. Besides, I figured it would be easier to find my own willing male guinea pigs to practise my skills. Men generally cut their hair more frequently than women. And since they also have shorter hair to work with, there seemed less possibility of messing up. Maybe I could even turn this into a side hustle. Like I said, the quickest way to be humbled. WHAT I LEARNT ABOUT CUTTING MEN'S HAIR For S$460, I was taken through a four-day course on the basics of men's haircutting by a highly patient trainer. Participants work on mannequin heads – it was for the best, judging by my handiwork – and only move on to human canvases in the following course. Hair sectioning: This involves dividing hair into manageable portions before cutting, which helps to ensure more precise and consistent cuts. Super straightforward – until it wasn't. I hadn't realised how embarrassingly bad I was at executing neat parting lines. My mannequin head looked like it'd been through war. After spending 30 minutes on hair sectioning, mostly redoing messy portioning and zigzag lines, my trainer redid some of my work in a fraction of the time and with effortless precision. Scissors handling techniques: One such technique called 'scissors over fingers' involves cutting hair held between fingers, typical for layering. Like many left-handers, I'd been using scissors with my right hand since I was young. In the hairdressing class, however, this meant also holding the comb in my right hand, together with the scissors, for efficiency. All while learning to snip by moving only my thumb. Chalk that up to another mental workout lefties never asked for. Finger cutting techniques: The angle that a stylist positions their fingers to control hair while cutting determines the final shape, desired or otherwise. Take vertical finger placement. The pointer and middle finger are held up vertically, so that the hair between the fingers is pulled perpendicular to the head. Unfortunately, I couldn't seem to maintain the position – key to getting even layers and balanced weight distribution. The end result? Unintentional graduation, uneven sections and a clear answer that I am decidedly not the next David Gan. Different layering cuts at horseshoe section: The horseshoe section in hairdressing refers to a curved section that runs from temple to temple around the crown. It separates the top from the sides and back. Different layering cuts done at this section help control volume, shape and movement in the final haircut. The techniques were identical to what I'd learnt trimming hair on the rest of the head. But it was as though I'd been asked to execute an entirely different skill. Diagrams didn't help either. 'Square layering' and 'round layering' may as well have been written in Wingdings. My visual-spatial ability was MIA too – but thankfully, my muscle memory wasn't. When I eventually found my flow state, it was like I'd never struggled. Texturising: This refers to cutting techniques used to remove bulk, add movement or create softness in the hair without altering the overall length. It enhances the haircut's shape and flow. I focused on learning how to thin hair, using thinning scissors to blend or lighten thicker sections. It always looked deceptively simple (from the customer's chair, of course), but the key was to ensure consistency across the entire head. Unfortunately, and to no one's surprise, my inconsistency in every other area of life followed me to hairdressing. One patch ended up so sparse, it seemed my mannequin had run straight through a lawn mower. Multiple times. Handling clipper and attachments: Hold the clipper firmly with thumb and fingers around the body. Keep the blade flat against the scalp for even cutting. Tilt slightly for blending. Use smooth, consistent strokes, typically upward or with the grain of hair growth. The instructions and demonstration were clear. I knew how to handle a clipper and its guard attachments, which control the length of hair being cut. I just hoped the distance from awareness to action wouldn't be another gaping chasm. Clipper cutting and blending: I now had to use the clippers I'd learnt to handle to actually cut some hair, while seamlessly transitioning between different lengths, such as from the sides to top. A technique known as the 'clipper-over-comb' requires using a comb to lift hair, then moving the clippers over the excess hair protruding from the comb. It's often used to control the blend manually, avoiding harsh lines. And after four days of backbreaking work, my mannequin finally stopped looking like it was in witness protection. IT'S NEVER 'JUST' HAIR I didn't need four days to learn that hairdressers are deeply underappreciated or to resolve never again to complain about the price of a haircut. Neither did I need that long – the first 30 minutes of Day 1 were sufficient – to convince me I had a sizeable absence of talent that people would sooner pay me not to cut their hair. But I had to get my own hands dirty, struggle to perfect a simple snip and overcome my frustration whenever I couldn't – to realise that hairdressers, more than anyone else, know that hair is never just hair. It's the reason people travel across the island just to see their longtime stylist. It's why so many speak of their relationship with their hairdresser as if they were family. And it's why some feel genuine grief when their hairdresser retires or closes shop and they have to find a new go-to. The emotional connection to hair – and what it represents – is also why the classic onscreen makeover moment never gets old. My favourites tend to revolve around female leads, from The Princess Diaries to Miss Congeniality, or the fashion and lifestyle 'make-betters' on reality TV series Queer Eye. Then TikTok gave the hallowed trope a fresh spin with viral barber transformation videos. With just a pair of scissors, unassuming men are turned into the next romantic comedy heartthrobs, complete with tapered fades, textured fringes and the ultimate accessory: A newfound confidence. So an external transformation may start superficially, but it doesn't contradict the idea of self-acceptance. If anything, many times, it paves the way for an internal shift. And I can only imagine what a privilege it would be to help another see themselves in a new light.
News.com.au
6 days ago
- General
- News.com.au
New vision emerges of NSW's trainer's cheeky act
NSW's trainer copped a tongue lashing from Ashley Klein on Wednesday night after an act of gamesmanship drew the ire of the veteran referee.
News.com.au
26-05-2025
- Business
- News.com.au
Group 1-winning trainer David Brideoake to step back from training at the end of the season
Triple Group 1 -winning trainer David Brideoake will hand in his trainer's licence at the end of the Victorian racing season. Brideoake, who started his training career in 1986 while also competing with success on the international showjumping circuit, said the perfect time had arrived to step back from running his own training business. Brideoake said he would stay in racing, working with his daughter Kate and soon to be son-in-law Matt Laurie, assisting with their booming training operation. 'Matt Laurie and Kate, my daughter, we're in a good position for some sort of an amalgamation,' Brideoake said. 'That's what we're approaching. 'I don't believe there will be any need for me to renew my trainer's licence. 'I'll be in the background there somewhere. 'My daughter is front and centre and Matt is front and centre and they're going along really well. 'Matt and Kate are getting married pretty soon, in about three weeks. 'It's a bit of a family transition and a step forward for them.' • Youth to spearhead McDonald's rebuild Laurie's stable has won four Group 1 races this season with star filly Treasurethe Moment winning three top-level races while two-year-old Vinrock won the ATC Sires Produce Stakes in Sydney. Brideoake said his decision was simply a result of the passage of time. 'I've been doing it for quite a long time and it's just normal progress,' Brideoake said. 'I turned 70 the other day. 'It's just really a bit of a succession plan where I get a chance to look from the outside a little bit more. 'I think the timing is pretty good.' While Brideoake will cease training in his own name on July 31, the Mornington -based horseman said he was still excited about the remaining months of the season. Brideoake said the team he prepared in partnership with current training partner Matt Jenkins was as strong as it had been for some time with the likes of recent two-year-old winners Prestige Ole and Prestige Forever indicating they were set for strong spring campaigns. • Victoria mourns passing of country racing stalwart He said the transition would not change things for his team of horses and staff, who would switch to the new business on August 1 without moving stables. 'I reckon I've got some damn good stock at the moment and I think it would just roll along,' Brideoake said. 'It will be a combination of Matt's place and my place so there won't be any horse movement and that will be under their banner. 'I've probably got as nice a bunch of horses that I've had for ages. 'I've also still got a few unraced bits and pieces that I like so it is an exciting time.' Brideoake said Jenkins was in discussion with Laurie about his future plans.
Health Line
23-05-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Low Impact Exercise Options for Seniors
Older adults have many options for staying physically active without sacrificing their joints. Walking, cycling, and yoga are just a few low impact exercises that may offer benefits. As you get older, your body changes. With it, your fitness needs change. Certain activities, like running, can place stress on your musculoskeletal system. For many people, this may mean those activities are no longer comfortable, enjoyable, or, in some cases, safe. But getting older doesn't mean you need to stop moving. Low impact exercises can enhance strength, promote flexibility, and build cardiovascular fitness without placing excessive stress on your joints. Plus, physical activity offers various mental health benefits. In this article, we discuss some options for low impact exercises, along with considerations for picking the right activity for you and staying safe while doing it. Exercise considerations for older adults Every person will have different exercise needs. Factors such as fitness level, age, and health status can all play a role in determining what the most suitable form of exercise is for an individual. The goal should be to find an exercise that you enjoy, gets you moving, doesn't stress your joints, and is convenient for you. If you have any questions, you can speak with a healthcare professional for advice. You might also consider working with a trainer who has experience with older adults, if you have access to one. Low impact exercises Most of these options for low impact exercise offer great flexibility. They don't require much specialized equipment, and you can perform many of them in your home. Walking Walking has many potential health and antiaging benefits. According to a 2023 research review, these include improvements in areas such as: cardiovascular health mental well-being sleep cognition all-cause mortality If you're trying to decide how much to walk, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on activity can be a good starting point. The CDC suggests getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week. For walking, this could mean doing 30 minutes of brisk walking 5 days per week. Alternately, the authors of the research review suggest aiming for 6,000 to 8,000 steps per day. Chair exercises Chair exercises are simple, convenient fitness routines that involve using a chair to perform exercises geared toward stretching, building strength, and enhancing mobility. A 2021 study found that chair exercise programs can improve the functioning of your arms and legs. Yoga Yoga is a practice that combines physical movement with breathwork and meditation. It involves doing gentle stretching while holding poses that engage the core and other large muscle groups. Many yoga poses can be modified for beginner practitioners or those with mobility challenges. If going through a traditional yoga routine feels daunting, chair yoga could be a good place to start. Strength training Strength training is great for building muscle. Many activities fall under the umbrella of strength training, including those involving weights, elastic resistance bands, and even your body weight. Research from 2019 suggests that strength training can help older adults stay independent and preserve their quality of life by: counteracting muscle loss reducing physical vulnerability helping manage chronic conditions building resilience In fact, the CDC recommends that older adults do two strength training sessions per week. Cycling Cycling is a low impact activity that can get folks moving and exploring the outdoors. Today many manufacturers make comfortable, lightweight bicycles designed for older adults. And electric bikes (e-bikes) make riding easier than ever. A 2023 review of cycling in older populations found that its benefits include better joint mobility, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being. Tai chi Tai chi is a traditional Chinese practice that combines flowing movements with mindfulness. It is a relaxing, low impact activity that offers a variety of potential benefits. A 2021 review found that regular tai chi practice can improve areas such as: balance pain management brain function sleep immune function You may find group classes in community centers, parks, or gyms, or you can follow along at home with online videos. SilverSneakers Certain Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer fitness benefits through a program called SilverSneakers. These benefits allow members to access gyms and exercise classes specifically designed for older adults. Classes are in-person or online and focus on maximizing fitness benefits while being low impact. Classes include: swimming yoga strength training tai chi dance aerobics fall prevention Staying safe while exercising As an older adult, staying healthy is key to a successful exercise program. Even with low impact exercises, there's a risk of burning out or developing overuse injuries. Here are some quick tips to consider that can help you create and implement a sustainable exercise program: Start slow: Allow your body time to adapt to any new stimulus by building up slowly and not overdoing it in the beginning. Listen to your body: If you feel particularly fatigued or sore, it may be time for rest and recovery. If in doubt, speak with a healthcare professional for advice. Speak with a trainer: Certain activities, like resistance training and yoga, require exact form to do them properly. A trainer or instructor can be a helpful resource, especially when you're learning a new exercise. Fuel properly: Your muscles need energy for activity, so try to eat nutritious foods and stay hydrated during your workouts.
BBC News
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Bedford visitor attraction searching for missing black kite again
A bird of prey who went missing and was found more than 100 miles (161km) away has flown from his home the black kite was chased from Herrings Green Activity Farm in Wilstead, near Bedford, on 10 April by other birds. He was later recovered by his trainer in Great Yarmouth, Saturday, the bird was taking part in a display at 14:30 BST when he flew so high his trainers lost sight of him. The farm has been pursuing several reported sightings but has not yet managed to locate the missing posted on Facebook: "We can't believe we are posting this but Tango has done it again!"Tango has been brilliant over the last few weeks but with this hot weather he just gained so much height."Black kites are slightly smaller than red kites with darker plumage and a more subtle fork in their can also be identified by his leather straps which should still be hanging from his Tuesday the attraction posted: "Please continue to keep your eyes open for him. We are hoping that he's not travelled as far as last time!" Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
