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Month: February 2019

2019 Health

The ab-busting move that also helps with lower back pain

4 min read

February 25, 2019 at 12:24PM by CWC In the ab workouts I’ve been streaming lately, I’ve noticed two things that remain true for all of them: A) they burn, and B) I always have to do the dead bug. The good news is that this doesn’t mean I pause my workout sesh to kill a spider in the corner—it’s actually a core-quaking move that makes your abs quiver with that hurts-so-good feeling. Of course, it did get its name from somewhere. Namely, the fact that you do essentially imitate a dead bug when you’re working your core. But it’s a serious workout move praised by countless trainers. “Don’t let the cute name and silly form fool you—the dead bug is a killer core exercise,” says Cat Kom, fitness expert and founder of Studio Sweat onDemand. “It’s amazing because it’s so simple, but can target your inner core muscles and spinal stabilizers—AKA your obliques, transverse abdominis, rectus abdominis (your “six pack”), multifidus, diaphragm—and even your pelvic floor.” “Don’t let the cute name and silly form fool you—the dead bug is a killer core exercise.” —Cat Kom Unlike crunches, this move forces you to engage your inner core without putting pressure on your spine. “It allows you to raise your arms and move your legs without arching your lower back,” says Kom, who notes that crunches and sit-ups put a lot of force on your spine. The dead bug is all about isolation, which is nice and gentle. “It teaches your body to

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2019 Health Yoga

8 pairs of hot yoga pants that stood up to our sweat test

5 min read

February 25, 2019 at 12:16PM by CWC Heated studio classes, be they hot power yoga (my exercise of choice) or something similar, are unique when it comes to the needed uniform. I’m constantly seeking out leggings that have a rise just high enough to stay up, but just low enough to allow for optimal movement; styles that are as tight as a second skin, yet feel supportive at the same time. The prime requirement, though? Sweat-wicking power. Even when I think that I’ve found the next best thing, all too often I take them into a hot class and am disappointed by the way they handle the sweat that’s inevitably released from pores I didn’t even know existed. So, I put the newest crop of performance leggings through a personal sweat test. Below you’ll find eight pairs of hot yoga pants that were able to take the heat. 1. 90 Degree by Reflex Squat Proof Interlink Legging, $25 Photo: 90 Degree Reflex These leggings have accumulated more than 5,000 reviews on Amazon.com and still managed to remain at a solid 4.5 stars, so I had to try them out. Let me tell you, they are sleek, moisture-wicking, and perfect for the sweatiest of workouts. Honestly, the price point ($25!) might have been the initial draw for many, but it’s simply an added bonus—they work just as well as performance tights I’ve paid much more for. 2. Splits59 High Waisted Workout Shorts, $58 Photo: Splits59 While I personally gravitate toward bottoms of

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