Lifestyle

[brightcove:5624805970001 default]

You can’t beat the price of Old Navy workout clothes on a regular day, but this Black Friday, your new favorite fitness gear is an even better deal. In addition to their outrageously amazing $1 cozy sock sale, Old Navy is kicking off a three-day sale starting Wednesday, November 22. From Thanksgiving Eve through Black Friday, you’ll get 50% off your entire purchase (no coupon code required), and many other items will be marked down to $10 or less. Here’s the cute, long-lasting workout wear we’ll be adding to our cart at oldnavy.com. An entire head-to-toe look (and more) for a grand total of under $150!

High-Rise Mesh-Panel 7/8-Length Leggings (regularly $33, now $16.50; oldnavy.com)

You can’t go wrong with a flattering high-rise legging and an on-trend cropped ankle, but these bottoms also boast chafe-preventing seams and moisture-wicking technology. Plus, this beautiful berry hue is literally called “Magical Potion," which is what all our workouts should feel like they’ve been blessed with, right?

Go-Warm Quilted Hybrid Jacket (regularly $70, now $35; oldnavy.com)

This half-puffer, half-hoodie gives the illusion of a vest and is perfect for bundling up on your way to and from spin class, thanks to its cozy fleece collar and sleeves.

Slub-Knit Performance Hoodie (regularly $23, now $11.50; oldnavy.com)

Super-soft and lightweight, this long-sleeve option is perfect for winter workout layering. Thanks to the flattering tunic cut, though, we wouldn’t blame you for adding this to your athleisure rotation, either.

High Support Adjustable-Strap Sports Bra (regularly $33, now $16.50; oldnavy.com)

At this price, you should stock up on multiple sports bras to last you throughout the year. Molded cups, two layers of moisture-wicking fabric, and an adjustable hook-and-eye closure (with a cute back too!) won’t disappoint.

Semi-Fitted Run Shorts (regularly $17, now $8.50; oldnavy.com)

In a fun floral print, these lightweight, moisture-wicking shorts will make your winter workouts feel (at least a little?) more like spring. Bonus: They even have a small pocket along the front interior.

Ultra-Light Mesh-Trim Racerback Tank (regularly $17, now $8.50; oldnavy.com)

Can you ever have too many workout tanks? Not when they’re this affordable–and this cute. The mesh trim shows a little peekaboo of skin and will keep you cool through hot yoga.

Graphic Tulip-Hem Performance Tee (regularly $17, now $8.50; oldnavy.com)

You’ll want to save this semi-cotton, super-fun tee for after you hit the showers because it’s just too cute to get sweaty! Only for the most confident of coffee-lovers.

Mid-Rise Slim Heathered-Stripe Track Pants (originally $40, now $20; oldnavy.com)

You'll want to wear these retro-inspired sweats all winter long. A tapered leg and tuxedo stripe give these joggers an effortlessly chic vibe. Also good: Hidden zippers at the ankles make them even comfier.

[brightcove:5551578581001 default]

This article originally appeared on People.com.

If you’ve ever found yourself home for the holidays and wondering how you’re going to squeeze in a workout between family visits and Black Friday shopping, you’re in luck.

Reebok trainer and eight-time Reebok CrossFit Games athlete Annie Thorisdottir is sharing some of her favorite at-home workouts for people who are miles away from their regular gym.

Luckily, everything you need can be found in a standard living room (no fancy gym equipment required).

The at-home workout is something Thorisdottir, 28, says she does with her family all the time.

“My family never says no to a fun workout!” she explains, adding that this routine is accessible to all ability levels. “Body-weight movements are great since they require no setup or equipment. … If you’re in great shape, you can increase the intensity or up the reps to get in a great workout.”

Here are a few moves to try. For a more gentle workout, do fewer repetitions. If you want a more intense workout, move through the series three times and add reps.

GOOD MORNINGS

Thorisdottir loves this warm-up move. Simply stand up straight, cross your arms and rest your hands on the chest. Bend your chest forward while moving the butt back, and try form a 90-degree angle with your body (It’s okay to bend the knees). Then raise your chest back to the original position.

JUMPING LUNGES

Keep the abs engaged as you move through this exercise. Step one leg forward and bend the other back into a lunge. Jump up and switch legs in the air, going down into a lunge on the other side. Repeat and take care not to bang your knee against the ground!

PISTOL SQUATS

These one-legged squats work on a couch, chair, or sturdy coffee table. Start seated with one leg in the air and the other planted on the ground. Then, stand while keeping your raised leg in the air through the movement. After a few reps, switch legs for a balanced workout.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS

You’ll need bit of space for these, so consider moving some furniture out of the way to make some room. Begin in plank position with your shoulders directly over your hands, your hips down, and your eyes at a slight 45-degree angle in front of you. Then, raise each leg to your chest, rotating one at a time in a controlled movement. Move as quickly as you can.

SHOULDER TAPS

While you’re down in plank position, why not try some shoulder taps? Raise your right arm up to the opposite shoulder, and then rotate sides, returning to the plank position in-between. Make sure you keep your body still while moving your arms.

THRUSTERS

Look around and grab books, candlesticks, water bottles, or any other light objects around the house. Now, with your elbows raised, hold the objects at your shoulders and do a squat. As you move back up, raise your objects overhead so your arms are fully extended. Repeat!

Photo: Daily Burn Black Fire

This article originally appeared on DailyBurn.com.

You don’t always need tons of equipment to get a heart-pumping, sweat-dripping workout. And you don’t even need many moves. With a little help from celeb trainer Bob Harper (and his Daily Burn workout program, Black Fire), you can get a serious cardio workout in just three exercises — no treadmill, elliptical or bike required. The secret to seeing results while still keeping it simple: working hard and moving fast, without sacrificing form. So step off the machine to step up your stamina with this quick cardio workout you can do anywhere. It’s time to test your limits.

RELATED: 6 Plyometric Exercises for a No-Running Cardio Workout

Bob Harper’s 3-Move Cardio Workout

Each exercise below works your entire body — cardiorespiratory system included. Start with a three- to five-minute warm-up and then get moving. Aim to perform this workout as a ladder, doing one rep of each exercise on the first round, two on the second, three on the third, and so on. See how many reps of each move you can complete in 20 minutes. If you repeat the workout another day, try to beat that number — because a little friendly competition with yourself offers some real motivation. Take a breather when you need it, but keep in mind: The harder you push, the more calories you burn. Ready, set, sweat!

RELATED: 7 Mobility Exercises to Never Skip Before a Workout

GIF: Daily Burn Black Fire

1. Wide Mountain Climbers

How to: Get in a high plank position, with your hands on the ground or on a box or chair in front of you. You should form a straight line from shoulders to hips to ankles (a). Step or jump your right foot to the outside of your right hand (b). Using your abs, lift your hips and jump to switch your feet so your right leg goes back to plank position and your left foot steps to the outside of your left hand (c). Continue alternating.

RELATED: 5 Mountain Climbers for Seriously Sculpted Abs

GIF: Daily Burn Black Fire

2. Dumbbell Swings

How to: Start with feet just a little wider than hip-width apart. Hold a medium to heavy dumbbell with both hands down in front of you (a). Inhale and hinge at the hips, lean forward with a flat back and bend your knees slightly as you bring the dumbbell between your legs (b). Using the power of your glutes and hamstrings, exhale and thrust your hips forward to bring the dumbbell straight up overhead as you straighten your legs. Make sure you engage your abs to stand upright at the top — don’t lean backward (c). Let the dumbbell naturally come back down and between your legs (d). Repeat.

RELATED: How to Kettlebell Swing Like the Pros

GIF: Daily Burn Black Fire

3. Hand Release Push-Up

How to: Start in a high plank position, wrists under shoulders and body in a straight line from shoulders to hips to ankles (a). Lower all the way down to the ground. Your elbows should point backward as you go, and your body should remain in a solid plank position (b). At the bottom, pick your hands up off the floor briefly (c). Then place them back down, in line with your shoulders (d). Push yourself back up to the top of a plank, keeping your body in a straight line. Don’t round or arch your back (e). Repeat.

This article originally appeared on InStyle.com.

Janet Jackson is looking better than ever. Not only did the 51-year-old star recently welcome a baby girl, Eissa, she also is in the best shape of her life.

If you think she’s been pounding the treadmill or doing some intense spin classes, think again. The famous singer and her trainer devised an entirely new workout plan, and she’s lost 70 lbs. without doing any cardio. While still rigorous—they worked out together four times a week for a minimum of 45 minutes—the intense training skipped exercises that tend to be hard on the body.

“We were doing three or four exercises with weights back to back,” Jackson’s trainer Paulette Sybliss told E! News. “What that does—you would look at her and think she’d done like an hour of cardio with me—but when you’re working with weights and you’re working the muscle that way, it elevates the heart rate, but also it’s creating that fat burning affect both during the session and also when she left me, and that was key.”

RELATED: Janet Jackson Makes Rare Red Carpet Appearance in Skintight Leather Skirt

While their initial goal was to lose weight, they’re now focusing maintaining her figure and staying healthy. “We’re not looking to lose any weight whatsoever,” Sybliss continued. “She looks incredible and she’s so fit, but she’s also healthy.”

Despite her focus on staying in incredible shape, Jackson also makes sure to treat herself occasionally. “If Janet feels that she needs to have a chocolate cake, go ahead and have a chocolate cake. You’re not eating it every day. You won’t get fat overnight.”

This article originally appeared on People.com.

What It Is: Physiclo Compression Tights with Built-In Resistance

Who Tried It: Stephanie Emma Pfeffer,  PEOPLE Bodies writer

Level of Difficulty: 5/10

I was skeptical when I first heard about Physiclo compression tights and the company’s promise of amping up a workout just by wearing special gear. But it sort of made sense, the idea of built-in resistance making a workout harder and more efficient. And since I’m always trying to squeeze the best workout in the fewest minutes possible (who isn’t?), I ordered a pair and decided to take them for a trial run. Literally.

The first thing I noticed was how difficult they were to get on. I mean, these babies were tight! And at $110 for capris and $125 for full-length tights, I was a little annoyed at feeling like I was being stuffed into a sausage casing. Once they were on, though, things felt better — and each time I wore them they were easier to pull on.

The site says Physiclo’s technology uses elastic bands and panels stretching over different muscle groups to generate resistance. My legs definitely felt heavier wearing them.

To test the company’s claim of an increased heart rate and caloric burn, I did the same routine wearing the Physiclo tights one day and my regular workout pants another day, comparing my Fitbit stats both days.

I ran on the treadmill for 15 minutes at a pace of 6.0 and a barely noticeable 1.0 incline. Even with the added weight, the tights didn’t restrict my movement at all, although I imagined it might be hard to do my usual speed work.

Wearing the Physiclo tights I had an average heart rate of 158 (max 170), and I burned 158 calories. In regular pants my heart rate was 154 (max 164) and I burned 133 calories.

So according to my completely unscientific experiment, wearing the Physiclo pants produced not only a higher heart rate but more of a calorie burn! I was sold.

Over the next few weeks I wore them for some other activities. I jumped rope in them one day.  I wore them to the playground to do body weight exercises while my kids ran around. I tried the leg-day workout on the Physiclo site designed by Olympian Stephen Lambdin.

By this time I was starting to dig them and feel a lot more comfortable. I was able to run 5 miles on the treadmill with no problem achieving my usual speed. (Not sure if my legs were getting stronger or what, but I felt great!)

When I most felt the effects was while doing exercises like squats or the Stair Master. I did 15 minutes at level 10 and really felt it in my thighs and butt.  I felt as sore as if I had done a full hour of barre! I wondered if I would grow an awesome peach booty if I wore these consistently.

After a few weeks of wearing Physiclo sporadically, I noticed that my legs felt stronger, tighter and more toned. Not sure if that was the pants or because I was working out a lot more in general.

The one thing I didn’t love was how they looked. Yes, I am a little vain about what I wear to the gym — I find it motivating to look good. And even though I am in shape, these pants squeezed me in ways I felt were slightly unflattering. That’s not to say everyone would have this problem — it’s possible that other body types would be fine. I dealt with the issue by wearing longer-than-usual tops. But this was really my only complaint, and it was not enough to keep me from wearing the pants.

Verdict: At $110, these pants are not cheap, but they run the same amount as some other luxe  brands. If you work out a lot and are looking to add something new or take your routine to the next level,  you should give these a shot! Just don’t size down when you order.

[brightcove:5599161751001 default]

That cranked-up stereo definitely isn’t great for your ears. Adults can safely bear a noise dose of less than 85 decibels for eight hours a day, per the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. And the max amount of time shrinks quickly the louder the noise gets. For instance, adults can tolerate 94 decibels for only one hour before it becomes potentially damaging to their hearing. And the music in some workout classes these days is blasted as loud as 99 decibels, a recent study found.

RELATED: Got Ringing in Your Ears? Here’s How to Cope With Tinnitus

That probably won’t tear you away from your favorite class, which is likely only an hour or less. But next time, see if you notice any ringing or buzzing in your ears (a.k.a. tinnitus) after class. If you do, I suggest you start wearing earplugs to prevent any long-term or permanent hearing loss. Earplugs will only muffle the noise, so you should still be able to hear the music. Some studios offer earplugs to clients for free (ask at the front desk), or you can pick up a pack at the drugstore and stash them in your gym bag. And don’t forget to watch the volume if you’re working out on your own and listening to music with headphones. As a rule, if someone near you can hear the music through your headphones, it’s too loud.

Health’s medical editor, Roshini Rajapaksa, MD, is assistant professor of medicine at the NYU School of Medicine.

With all the supplements out there, it can be hard to determine what works — and what doesn’t. So what’s the deal with Active PK? Are its ingredients effective? A little investigation into the science behind this supplement uncovers the truth.
 

The Lowdown on AMPK 

Active PK is a supplement that aims to stimulates an enzyme called adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase — otherwise known as AMPK.  

AMPK was originally known to be an enzyme that works to maintain cellular energy and regulate metabolism in the body. Recent studies, however, have proven that it does much more than that. It seems that AMPK actually helps regulate weight, blood sugar levels, and the body’s inflammatory processes. Even more impressive? Studies are showing that AMPK actually plays a huge role in dictating how fast your body ages. And slowing down the rate at which you age is key. It can help prevent or delay any age-related issues and increase longevity. 

This is all pretty intriguing, but let’s get into the details. What is AMPK specifically doing? 

Helps Fight Abdominal Fat 

Fighting the appearance of abdominal fat is an uphill battle for many people. A big culprit in abdominal fat? Unbalanced blood sugar levels. Now, there are many factors at play when it comes to maintaining blood sugar, but it’s worth noting that AMPK is a pretty big piece of the puzzle. AMPK is actually responsible for helping to stimulate glucose (sugar) uptake. This, in turn, helps keep blood sugar levels stable. And by keeping blood sugar levels healthy, you can get the upper hand on keeping belly fat at bay. 

Increases Energy Through Cellular Renewal 

All of your body’s functions begin at the cellular level. When your cells suffer, your entire body is bound to feel the consequences. That’s why it’s so important to feed your cells so they can work under optimal conditions. And that’s where AMPK comes in. 

AMPK performs several functions when it comes to “keeping house” at the cellular level. One thing it does is assist in a process called “autophagy”. Autophagy is your body’s way salvaging old, degraded cells and using them to create new, well-working cells. This increases cellular efficiency, so that your organs continue to work well. 

AMPK is also involved in the creation of mitochondria. Mitochondria are structures inside your cells that are responsible for converting glucose into energy. This energy is fuel for all your body’s functions, and helps you maintain good energy levels to get you through your day.

Boosts Cognitive Health

Having a body that performs well is important. Part of that healthy body is the brain – and it can be difficult to know how to boost brain health. Studies are showing that AMPK is essential to maintaining good cognitive health and a well-functioning memory. 

Promotes Longevity 

This one’s pretty intriguing. A 2017 study found that AMPK, when combined with a healthy diet, has the potential to increase lifespan. Scientists theorize this has something to do with AMPK’s profound effect on keeping cellular mitochondria in good condition. 

The On/Off Switch 

Here’s the thing. AMPK essentially has an “on/off” switch. When it’s turned on, AMPK performs all the functions it’s meant to perform. So how to keep it turned on? Through the use of AMPK-stimulating nutrients. 

To stimulate AMPK, Active PK uses berberine. Berberine is a compound of several plants, including a shrub called berberis. This compound has the unique capability of activating AMPK. As a result of this activation? You get the benefits of AMPK — weight management, energy, cognitive health, and potentially — a long lifespan. 

Active PK also contains a couple other natural ingredients: 

• Quercetin: This antioxidant is found in several fruits and vegetables, and it fights off free radicals. Free radicals are damaging molecules which can damage the body and accelerate the aging process. 
• Gynostemma is an herb with powerful antioxidant properties that may have the potential to prevent serious health problems associated with aging.
   

Assurance 

There’s solid accountability with Active PK. All of the supplements produced by LCR Health are 3rd party tested at an independent facility. This means you can rest assured that the ingredients in Active PK are safe, pure, and of the highest quality. 

LCR Health seems pretty confident in the effectiveness of Active PK. The company offers a 90-day window in which they promise that, if you don’t like the product, you’ll receive a refund.
 

Tried and True 

When it comes to increasing energy and decreasing abdominal fat — Active PK promises to deliver. And the science behind AMPK backs up that promise — making Active PK a trustworthy supplement that just might be well worth a shot.  

Our fathers are the best! Not only are they as funny as described in funny fathers day memes but they are our real heroes! Here are a few cute surprises and gestures you can do to make him very happy.

Game-day Goodies

Have you seen funny fathers day memes of how much dads love their sports? You may not have the money to buy tickets so dad can see them play in person; however, you can still give him a great gift. Instead of paying for tickets, spring for some of his favorite game-day foods. Set up a table full of goodies in front of the TV and make your dad more comfortable than if he had box seats. He won’t have to fight the crowds or yell to get the attention of the hot dog vendor. If you have any pennants or team decor, set them out to create a festive mood.

While you’re at it, join dad for the game. Even though you may not be a sports nut, you’ll be spending time with your dad and giving him a great present.

Breakfast of Champions

Not all fathers are sports nuts, but most would be thrilled to wake up to breakfast in bed. It may be an old standby, but it’s a good one. Enlist some help in cooking a simple breakfast or make a quick trip to McDonald’s to pick up dad’s favorite fast-food grub. Either choice provides an excellent way to wake up your dad.

If your dad is the on-the-go type, you can put a fun spin on this idea. Treat him to breakfast at a restaurant with an all-you-can-eat buffet. They are fairly inexpensive and will satisfy both of your growling stomachs.

Memorable Memos

Making dad feel special doesn’t have to cost anything, nor does it have to involve food, all you could be doing is laughing about funny fathers day memes and it would mean the world to him. Grab a pen and a pad of paper, and then begin listing things you like and appreciate about your dad you can also add a few funny fathers day memes to add humor to it. Write several notes telling Dad why you admire him and why you are glad he’s your dad. You can include notes of encouragement and some of your favorite Bible verses.

Write as many as you want. When you’re done, hide the notes around the house: in his briefcase, in his favorite chair, on the bathroom mirror – anywhere where your dad will find them. Let him discover your notes throughout the day, or even through the entire week.

Walk and Talk

If your pockets jingle but are missing dollar bills, you still have options. Invite your dad to go for a run or a walk outside. Not only will the exercise be good for you, but this will give you a great chance to catch up with each other. It’s easy to get caught up in work and school schedules and forget to spend time with each other.

This is also a great time to learn from your dad. He may seem kind of ancient, but he was your age once. Though it may feel like he has been nothing but a dad for eons, he has learned a thing or two along the way. In exchange for some quality time, your dad may just provide you with some insight on some of those things that have you puzzled. Use this time to learn from each other.

A Helping Hand

If neither you nor your dad like the great outdoors, try spending some quality time inside. Offer to help him with a project. Whether it’s one he’s been working on for ages, one he started yesterday, or one he’s been putting off for weeks, he could probably use another pair of hands. Even if you aren’t fond of the current task, it’s a way to let your dad know you care about him.

Art Appreciation

It’s great to lend a helping hand, but you can use your hands for several other things. Are you an aspiring musician or writer? Are you the artist of your family? Could you build a model of the Brooklyn Bridge out of Popsicle sticks? Use your talents to create a gift for your dad.

Write him a song, poem, or story. Draw, paint, or sculpt him a piece of art. Whether it’s about him or for him, you can show your appreciation for your dad and do something you love at the same time.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. You can try some or all of them. You can tweak them to fit your dad’s personality. In any case, once you get your creative juices flowing, there are no limits to how you can honor dad on his day.