If you Only Do One Thing This Week… Stay Fit On Holiday!

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So, if you’re like us, you’ll be focusing on kicking up your fitness training before your holiday to get that strong, happy and toned body. But why ditch the fitness routine when you arrive? Here at Hip and Healthy we are all about balance, it’s not everyday you get to relax on a sun lounger, especially in the UK! We say make the most of your chill time, while still including a little bit of exercise to keep things ticking over. You don’t want all that hard work you put in before to go completely to waste!

With that in mind, we have come up with the best ways to stay fit on holiday. Keeping your body moving whilst on holiday is also a really good way to further de-stress and release endorphins.

Take in the culture by foot or bike
There’s no better way to fully explore your surroundings than by taking a stroll or bike ride. Not only will you get to fully experience the culture and atmosphere of the destination you are visiting, it’s also a great way to get your heart rate up and work off that holiday cocktail!

HIIT hotel room antics
No gym? No problem! 15-30 minutes of HIIT training in your hotel room will do the job and although we should all try and ditch our phones whilst on holiday, it’s a lot harder to do in reality! So, put your phone or tablet to good use and watch a quick HIIT workout tutorial on YouTube! We love Popsugar Fitness and Blogilates – Both offer a range of different workouts depending on the time/space you have. Cassey from Blogilates even has a 5-minute ab workout if you’re really strapped for time! No excuses!

Swim your troubles away
This one is an easy one! Most holiday resorts will have a pool and, if you’re lucky, you’ll have the beautiful ocean right on you’re doorstep too! We think there is no better, more enjoyable way to stay fit than swimming or aqua aerobics! Both of these will strengthen and tone your muscles whilst having the lowest impact on your joints…perfect if you’re recovering from an injury. Swimming and water aerobics are great for building up your cardiovascular fitness (important for a healthy functioning heart) and you get to be outside taking in the beautiful sunshine! We promise it won’t even feel like you’re exercising!

Pick up some resistance bands
Resistance bands are a great and cheap way to stay fit whilst on holiday, a lot of sports shops sell them now and they are easily available online too. Actress Jennifer Aniston, raves about the wonders of resistance bands as a good way of exercising whilst travelling. Resistance bands can be used in a multitude of ways and will give your body a thorough, toning workout in minutes! Bodyism sell their own online here!

Hit the Beach
The beach is a beautiful spot to exercise. We recommend a relaxing yoga session on the beach, focusing your breath on the sound of the wind and the waves. Not only will you be able to lengthen and tone your body, you will also feel energised and relaxed. If yoga isn’t your thing then why not take a long walk or jog along the beach? The sand will work your muscles harder, toning and sculpting your legs and bottom. You won’t even need to pack your trainers… barefoot is the way to go on holiday!

words by Olivia Fantoni

Overnight Beauty Wonders

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The aim of the game is simple. We all want to look our best with as minimal effort as possible, so, we’ve gathered together some of our most-used overnight beauty wonders that we swear by to give you that wondrous glow. All you have to do is lie back and drift into a deep sleep and let these products work their magic and transform you overnight. Now you’ll have even more of an excuse to get your beauty sleep!

 

MOISTURISERS

AURELIA

Aurelia Probiotic Skincare- Cell Revitalise Night Moisturiser
With blasting air cons, pressurized cabins and scorching days on the beach , our delicate skin can sometimes feel a little unloved during the summer months. So, what better to of refresh and re-energise your skin than with Aurelia’s Probiotic Night Moisturiser. This little pot of miracle moisture fuses probiotic and peptide technologies with plant and flower essences to hydrate and soothe dull and dehydrated skin. The delicate infusion of Neroli, Lavender, Rose and Mandarin beautifully hydrates and relaxes, making it the perfect overnight treatment. So lie back, take in the delectable scents and let the magic work.

oskia

Oskia- Bedtime Beauty Boost
The name say’s it all! This bedtime beauty boost is packed with nourishing and regenerating night cream packed with MSM Regen Complex, Milk Peptides, Vitamin A, B3, E, Swiss Apple Stem Cells, Hyaluronic Acid, Phytosterols and Omega 3,6 & 9. Oskia’s overnight treatment will replenish your skin whilst you sleep, preventing signs of premature ageing, whilst hydrating and brightening your complexion. Designed to stimulate your skin’s natural regeneration process, this cult product will help iron out the appearance of wrinkles, reduce age spots and is certain to make your skin feel and look naturally radiant!

 

 

FACE OILS

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Lucy Annabella Organics – Organic Treatment Oil with Argan and Franckisense
Soothe and repair your delicate skin with Frankincense and Lavender essential oils while the Geranium works to align hormonal imbalance. The Argan, Avocado and Apricot oils are promised to nourish your skin with the abundant vitamins and antioxidants. This luxurious treatment oil will have you waking up glowing and restored.

kypris-beauty-elixir-2

Kypris Beauty Elixir II-Healing Bouquet
Beauty Elixir II Healing Bouquet is a 100% active formula packed with free radical-quenching CoQ10, collagen generating Vitamin C, and a rainbow of phytonutrients, essential fatty acids, and natural actives from plants. All of which, will help soothe, tone, calm and brighten your skin overnight. This healing oil is suitable for most skin types especially beneficial for essential oil lovers with combination or inflamed skin due to blemishes or over exposure to the environment. This is a great choice post-holiday!

REN

REN Wake Wonderful Night-Time Facial
Re-energise your skin whilst you dream with the Wake Wonderful Night-Time Facial from REN – a brand we have loved for years! With a unique three-phase complex, the luxurious facial transforms skin overnight to leave you with a brighter, refined complexion. Enriched with tropical fruit acids, which help exfoliate your skin, you will rise the next morning looking positively brighter and more radiant. The minerals and sugars energise cells and omega oils work to repair and improve the skin’s natural healing process.

 

EYE CREAMS

Grown_Alchemist

Grown Alchemist – Age Repair Eye Cream
This advanced natural eye cream from Grown Alchemists has been formulated to improve the appearance of skin firmness and elasticity around the eye area. It noticeably reduces dark circles and puffiness under the eyes while reducing the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles. This eye cream will have you looking and feeling fresh, so forget that second coat of under-eye concealer in the morning- you won’t be needing it!

perricone

Perricone MD- Neuropeptide Eye Therapy
Formulated with Dr. Perricone’s proprietary Neuropeptides, this eye cream delivers advanced anti-aging benefits to the delicate eye area by helping to diminish the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles for a youthful, brighter-looking you. We love to slather this on liberally just before bed to allow the intense cream to skin deep in to our skin.

 

words by Olivia Fantoni

Strawberry Chocolate “Cheesecake” Perfect For Wimbledon!

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recipe by Saskia Gregson-Williams

I am obsessed with raw cakes, like, seriously obsessed.

The list of ingredients for a raw dessert can sometimes be a little daunting to the regular cake maker, as all of a sudden we’re asking you to cook (well, blend) with a lot more whole-foods and a lot less flour/butter/sugar ect. Raw cakes use natures candy in the form of sweet berries, medjool dates, frozen bananas, coconut pieces and agave nectar. Nuts give the crust a bit of a crunch, and are also used for the creamy smooth filling. All these foods on their own are delicious, but together… they will make your taste buds (and the rest of your body) sing. Because this cake is packed with nutritional goodness, you’re satisfied and fuller with far less than you would be a regular glutinous cake, and because it’s stored in the freezer it keeps for  longer too!

This combination for a rather divine (if i do say so myself) strawberry-chocolate cheesecake, is heavenly. The light spread of the chocolate, compliments the creamy strawberry filling perfectly. Chop some regular strawberries on top and a scatter of cacao nibs and you’re rocking!

Enjoy & remember to hashtag #hipandhealthy on twitter and instagram so we can see all your awesome recreations!

RECIPE

Crust:

1 1/2 cups raw almonds

1/3 cup desiccated coconut (optional)

2 cups medjool dates, pitted

Strawberry Filling:

2 cup raw cashews (soaked, see prep note)

2 1/2 cups frozen strawberries

juice of 1 lemon

2 tbsp agave syrup

Chocolate Filling:

1 frozen banana

1 avocado

1/4 cup cacao powder

1/4-1/3 cup agave syrup

3 tbsp coconut oil, melted

(if your having trouble blending your filling add a little dairy free milk)

Preparation: Freeze your strawberries and the banana in slices to make it easier to blend.

Make sure to soak your cashews for 3 hours before blending.

Method:

Start by placing the nuts in your food processor, blend for a minute or two, until the nuts are well crushed. Add the dates and coconut and blend until a sticky mixture. Press into the base of spring form cake tin, place in the freezer.

For the cake layers, all you need to do is add all ingredients and blend until smooth. Choose the layer you want to make first (I chose the chocolate) and blend well. Pour/spread onto the crust and place back in the freezer for atleast 20 minutes to set, meanwhile make your final layer. Repeat with the last layer and put back in freezer to set once more. Leave for two hours before serving. Simply remove the cake from the freezer allow to thaw for a few minutes and then serve!

 

New Body-Sculpting Studio That Deliver Results

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image: Another Space

Need to inject a bit of excitement back into your workouts? Bored of the same old gym scenery? We’ve rounded up a number of new studios in London that are sure to tickle your body-burning, body-sculpting taste buds!

 

Another Space London
What: Offering a unique combination of workouts including cycle, HITT and yoga, all synced to music to allow you to take your mind and body somewhere new!

Why: It is known as the ‘most focused cardio workout in town!’ These classes allow you to strengthen your core and tone your whole body while taking fat-burning and muscle sculpting to the max!

Where: 4-10 Tower Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9NP. (Nearest tube stations: Leicester Square 4 mins, Covent Garden 6 mins, Tottenham Court Road 7 mins).

Price: £20 per credit (the more you buy the lower the price!)

 

Digme Fitness
What: An indoor cycling and HITT studio, which opened on the 18th of June 2016 in our hometown of Richmond! Offering the latest technology and expert guidance, their classes are fun, vibrant and effective’.

Why: Say goodbye to restrictive health club membership, Digme fitness has no contracts; your commitment is simply down to you. Plus, Cowshed products in the showers! Who can resist?

Where: 2 studios are available to you either in Richmond (23 Sheen Road, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1BN) or Oxford (Cantay House, Park End Street, Oxfordshire, OX1 1JD).

Price: A huge number of offers and deals are available to make the price as low as possible for you. Buy your credits here

 

Evolve Fitness Studio
What: Just last week Evolve fitness studio in London opened catering for exercise junkies who are living within and around southeast London. As well as holding numerous indoor cycling classes each day, the studio also offers a range of other high impact exercise classes.

Why: The studio boosts state of the art indoor cycling facilities and combines a tough work out with having fun at the same time, with classes being taken by qualified and experienced instructors.

Where: 282 Lee High Road, London, SE13 5PJ

Price: Call To Find out

 

“Ride 2 Rebel”
What: A bunch of new exercise buses known as ‘Ride 2 Rebel’ produced by 1Rebel are going to be launching in London later this year.

Why: However tempting it might be to go back to sleep when that alarm goes off, now you could be forced to work out by doing a spin class on your commute to work, killing two birds with one stone.

Where: The buses will travel from four pick-up points all over London including; High street Kensington, Stratford, Clapham Common and Angel (Islington).

Price: TBC

 

Xtend Barre
What: Xtend Barre London is opening up a new studio! Hooray! Offering an amplified version of Pilates and dance, these sweat-inducing classes aim to strengthen and lengthen the body.

Why: Classes combine graceful but energetic moves to ensure the best results for you! You will see jaw-dropping improvements to your core, balance and flexibility.

Where: 49 Marylebone High Street, London, W1U 5HH.

Price: £25 for a class (the more you buy the more you get!)

 

words by Olivia Fantoni

The Truth About Coffee – Saint Or Sin?

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Now, we’re sure you have all heard both horror stories and songs of praise when it comes to coffee, so much so, that sometimes it’s difficult to know which article or piece of advice to listen to. Here at Hip and Healthy we are all about balance and everything in moderation, and yes, that sometimes means the occasional cup of coffee! By no means are we telling you to rush to starbucks to load up on an extra hot, skinny, double-shot macchiato with syrup, but a cup of good quality home-brewed coffee is known to have several benefits which we have listed below.

 

Caffeine can drastically improve physical performance and promote fat-loss
Caffeine has been proven to stimulate the nervous system, whilst increasing Epinephrine (Adrenaline). Epinephrine is responsible for kickstarting our ‘fight or flight’ hormones which help prepare our bodies for intense physical exertion. Caffeine also helps our bodies break down fat, releasing them into the blood as free fatty acids, making them available as fuel and increasing physical performance by 11-12%, on average. Coffee has also been said to help boost your metabolism and aid fat-loss by as much as 10% in obese individuals and 29% in healthy individuals. So, if your going to have a cup of coffee a day, then we highly recommend you have one around half an hour before hitting the gym hard!

 

There are essential nutrients in coffee
Now, there is a reason why we advise you to only buy organic, good quality coffee, and it’s not to shrink your wallet! In over processed, freeze-dried coffee, the majority of coffee’s antioxidants and nutrients get lost. However, a single cup of organic coffee such as BulletProof Coffee (more on that later!) contains:

  • Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 11% of the RDA.
  • Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5): 6% of the RDA.
  • Manganese and Potassium: 3% of the RDA.
  • Magnesium and Niacin (B3): 2% of the RDA.

 

 

Coffee may lower your risk of type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a massive health problem, currently effecting around 300 million people worldwide. It is characterised by elevated blood sugars in the context of insulin resistance or an inability to secrete insulin. Preliminary research has discovered coffee drinkers have a significantly reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The studies show that people who drink coffee in moderation, have a 23-50% lower risk of getting this disease, one study showing a reduction as high as 67%

According to a review that looked at data from 18 studies with a total of 457,922 individuals, each daily cup of coffee was associated with a 7% reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Pretty amazing!

 

Coffee may protect you from alzheimer’s, parkinson’s and dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease and the leading cause of dementia worldwide, usually affecting people over 65 years of age. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s.

However, there are several preventative measures you can take. Obviously, remaining active and adopting a healthy lifestyle and eating habits will go a long way to ensure your health, however, several studies show that coffee drinkers have up to a 65% lower risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease.

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, right after Alzheimer’s. It is caused by the loss of dopamine-generating neurons in the brain. Similar to Alzheimer’s, there is no known cure, and prevention is the only form of safeguarding ourselves. In studies, coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, with a reduction in risk ranging from 32-60%. In this case, it appears to be the caffeine itself that is causing the effect. People who drink decaf don’t have a lower risk of Parkinson’s.

 

Coffee can have protective effects on the liver
The liver is an amazing organ that carries out hundreds of important functions in the body, including helping to detoxify your body. Several common diseases primarily affect the liver, including hepatitis, fatty liver disease and others. Many of these diseases can lead to a condition called cirrhosis, in which the liver has been largely replaced by scar tissue. It turns out that coffee may protect against cirrhosis. People who regularly drink coffee, may have up to an 80% lower risk.

 

Coffee may help fight depression and make you happier
Depression is a serious mental disorder that causes a significantly reduced quality of life, around 70 million days of work are lost each year due to mental health problems and astonishingly 1 in 4 people are affected.

In a Harvard study published in 2011, women who had a higher intake of coffee per day had a 20% lower risk of becoming depressed. Another study with 208,424 individuals found that those who drank a higher intake of coffee per day were 53% less likely to commit suicide .

Despite all the benefits, it is of course essential to ensure that you control your coffee intake and ensure that you drink good quality coffee. As with most thing’s in life; take everything moderation.

A new type of coffee which has landed on the block is BulletProof Coffee, which promises to help energise, aid fat loss, increase mental clarity, whilst minimising the negative jitters and side effects from coffee. Hey, if it’s good enough for David Beckham, then it’s good enough for us!

Bulletproof coffee

Bulletproof Coach Training
This Summer, BulletProof Coffee will be launching their UK Bulletproof Coach Training Programme which kicks off in London.

The innovative program is perfect for those passionate about changing their lives and changing the lives of others. The programme will provide all students with the necessary skills needed to upgrade their career potential. The course incorporates cutting-edge discoveries from the worlds of neuroscience, performance coaching, nutrition science, biohacking, positive psychology, brain fitness and resilience training, with the extensive personal and professional experience of both Dave Asprey, founder of Bulletproof and the course leader, Bulletproof Medical Director and internationally renowned human potential development expert, Dr Mark Atkinson MBBS. It’s a course coffee lovers and health bunnies won’t want to miss! Sign up here!

BulletProof Coffee 101 – Q&A With Founder, Dave Asprey

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What kick started your life changing journey of self-development?

I started bio-hacking in my late 20’s after I grew tired of being obese and sick all the time. I used to diet and exercise excessively but I was still overweight and experienced a lot of brain fog. As a tech entrepreneur, I became dedicated to using hacking techniques and trying out everything on myself, in a bid to become ‘better’, be that a better entrepreneur and later, a better husband and father.

I became focused on discovering the answers to this one persistent question: “What are the simplest things you can do to be better at everything? What emerged is the idea of being “Bulletproof”, the state of high performance where you take control of and improve your biochemistry, your body, and your mind so they work in unison, helping you execute at levels far beyond what you’d expect, without burning out, getting sick, or allowing stress to control your decisions.

 

What is Bulletproof Coffee and what makes it different from regular coffee?

Bulletproof Coffee is a blended drink of Bulletproof™ Upgraded Coffee, Upgraded™ Octane Oil and grass-fed, unsalted butter. This unique blend is scientifically proven to provide more energy, greater mental focus/clarity and support fewer food cravings.

Unlike regular coffee, Bulletproof Coffee allows users to get the benefits of coffee without the typical crash and jitters associated with caffeine. A few of the benefits of Bulletproof Coffee, which you won’t experience from just a regular coffee include: Intense focus and clarity, long lasting, all day energy and feeling satisfied until lunchtime.

In addition, Bulletproof Coffee can speed up metabolism, kick-start your fat-burning engine, reduce inflammation and LDL cholesterol by providing necessary omega-3 fatty acids.

By replacing milk with butter, a Bulletproof Coffee allows you to absorb up to 340% more of the antioxidants naturally found in coffee, as milk in coffee inactivates the polyphenol antioxidants commonly found in coffee.

 

How can it benefit us fitness junkies?

Bulletproof Coffee allows users to get the benefits of coffee without the typical crash and jitters associated with caffeine.  Some additional benefits include: intense focus and clarity, long lasting, all day energy, a speed up of your metabolism and te kick-start of your fat-burning engine.

In addition to the energizing benefit of the caffeine from the coffee, because Bulletproof Coffee uses proprietary low-toxin Upgraded coffee beans, you don’t experience the brain fog that you might with lesser quality beans. On top of that, the caffeine helps release the fat from the Upgraded Octane Oil and the butter into one’s bloodstream so it can immediately be used as an energy source. Your body also naturally uses MCTs for energy instead of storing them, which is part of why Upgraded Octane Oil (an MCT) is so good for you. The last critical ingredient, unsalted grass-fed butter, is also great for your energy because the butyric acid in it helps promote brain function.

 

How do you drink your Bulletproof Coffee? 

This is the recipe I follow – I personally go pretty hard on the Upgraded Octane Oil and butter but newcomers should be advised to start low and work up over several days…

Brew 1 cup (8-12 oz.) of coffee using filtered water, just off the boil, with 2 1/2 heaping tablespoons freshly ground Upgraded Coffee (A Cafetiere is easiest.)

Add in 1-2 tablespoons of Upgraded Octane™ to the hot coffee (It’s STRONG – start with 1 tsp. and work up over several days).

Add 1-2 tablespoons grass-fed, unsalted butter or ghee

Mix it all in a blender for 20-30 seconds until it is frothy like a foamy latte

Drink and feel incredible!

 

Is there an optimal time during the day to drink it?

In the morning is a great time, especially for those who are following Bulletproof’s Intermittent Fasting Protocol/looking to aid weight loss.

When your body has nothing to burn for fuel but fat, it can more easily move into a fat burning metabolic mode called ketosis. For this to happen, you must also follow the Bulletproof diet roadmap which is free on the website (uk.Bulletproof.com) or published in my book.

When you have Bulletproof coffee for breakfast, it does not cause the insulin spike that fruit smoothies or bread will cause, which is helpful, but perhaps the biggest benefit is that it suppresses hunger so you know longer experience cravings and give into them, eating a bunch of pastries at 10am.

What are you waiting for? Go check it out here?

 

Best Places To Watch Wimbledon On The Big Screen!

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Without a doubt, Wimbledon is the perfect showcase of Britain’s traditional sporting culture… the champagne will be flowing, strawberries and cream will be in abundance and friends, family and love ones all come together to enjoy what is a wonderfully exciting sport! If you just missed out on your Wimbledon tickets then do not fear! We’ve rounded up some of the best places to catch the games this summer at a much more reasonable price!

 

Bluebird 
Bluebird’s giant outdoor screen will be showing all the action during the Wimbledon fortnight live on the Courtyard from Monday 27th June. There’s nothing better than watching tennis in the heart of Chelsea whilst enjoying a glass of Moet, jugs of Pimms and delicious grub, particularly their BBQ! The fortnight will reach match point on Sunday 10th July for the Men’s Finals where you can enjoy a special 3 course menu created by their Cafe Head Chef, Liam Smith-Lang.

 

Duke of York Square- Strawberries and Screen
If you can’t nab yourself a table at Bluebird, head down the road to Duke of York Square where they are setting up their “Strawberries & Screen” for Wimbledon 2016! The semi finals will be viewed on Friday the 8th and the finals on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th July. So, soak up the tennis with friends, enjoy the excitable atmosphere and bring your picnic blanket with some strawberries and champagne!

 

The Refinery
The deck chairs will be standing to attention, with a converted caravan as a screen, The Refinery in London Bridge will be packed with eager spectators! So get your jugs of pimm’s at the ready and soak up the bustling, party atmosphere whilst watching the exciting matches!

 

The Garden Bar -Notting Hill
With a beautiful outdoor garden, the Garden Bar is the perfect place to watch the Wimbledon matches and to celebrate the victories. The popular Garden Bar is sure to be packed with laughter, life and cocktails! So get there early and secure your spot!

 

Wimbledon at British Summer Time: Hyde Park
British Summer Time Hyde Park is back for a fourth year in 2016 but this is the first time they’ve shown Wimbledon on the big screen. Mid-week, between two weekends of big gigs, Hyde Park becomes Open House – four days of free open-air movie nights and Wimbledon screenings, street food stalls, daytime DJs, live music and entertainment. There are free badminton sessions, ping pong and after school multi-sports for kids and you can join the Gorilla Circus Flying Trapeze School if you fancy a thrill! If all that high-flying gives you a taste for heights, climb to the top of the viewing platform and see London’s skyline from 100ft above the ground – all for absolutely free!

words by Olivia Fantoni

image: Bluebird

Tiffany Watson – Fitspiration

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image: Glen Burrows

Do you have any rules that you live by when it comes to your health and fitness?
Everything in moderation; never over-work yourself that you become exhausted and fitness turns into a punishment and don’t feel guilty for enjoying yourself every now and then!

 

What was your hardest bad habit to kick?
My hardest bad habit to kick was eating dairy. I had a slight addiction to cheese (now replaced with cashew cheese!). However, I not only found out I was lactose-intolerant but I also discovered more about the impacts that the dairy industry has on animals through my sister’s work with the amazing animal rights charity, PETA, and I decided to cut it out completely. It’s been a challenge but I feel so much better for it.

 

Take us through your day on a plate…
Every day is different due to my ever-changing busy schedule, however normally its porridge in the morning with almond milk, banana cinnamon and honey. Then for lunch I tend to go for either brown rice sushi, or if I am out and about I love the Goodness Bowl at The Good Life Eatery in Chelsea and for dinner I tend to have some sort of vegan burger made of chickpeas or tofu with tons of veg.

 

What inspired you to want to become a personal trainer?
I became really interested in personal training after using a personal trainer myself. I loved the idea of being able to help other people achieve results like I have with my trainer. The course has been a lot harder then I thought it would be, especially with fitting in filming as well, but I’m so glad I have managed to complete it!

 

What do you want clients to get out of your Bootcamp in Fulham, Tonan?
I want our clients to have an enjoyable yet hard session! I want them to walk away feeling like they’ve worked hard and can feel proud of themselves. Having a bootcamp is great as it’s a brilliant way to motivate one-another, as well as socializing all whilst working out and getting fitter!

 

How do you balance your social life with your health goals? Do you ever find that they conflict?
Oh definitely! The normality of my social life has always been ‘drinking, eating out and going out’ so for me it has been conflicting. However, I try to suggest other ways of socialising with my friends like doing a workout and getting a juice afterwards or checking out a new healthy restaurant. My sister and I both don’t eat meat or dairy so we like to check out new vegan restaurants all the time. When it is an occasion where I do want to have a drink I’ll try to just have a gin and slim line tonic. And, of course, I do love a night out once in a while, and its something I look forward to because I no longer do it all that much. But I way prefer my new way to socialize – you just can’t beat waking up feeling great!

 

What’s your preferred way to stay fit?
Personally, I like to mix it up. I get bored very easily with the same workouts and I like to challenge my body. There is no way I could do the same thing four times a week. Every week I like to fit in a Pilates session, a HIIT workout, a session with my trainer and a spin class.

 

What or who inspired you to live the healthy life?
I feel like a lot of it came down to learning about the impacts of bad food on your body, and starting to work out, helped me with my stress levels and energy levels. I can’t imagine not working out now. I would also say Instagram really inspired me as there are so many inspiring health and fitness accounts and bloggers out there who inspire me every day with new training ideas or healthy recipes.

 

What three things would we find in your gym bag?
A water bottle with lots of lemon in, face-towel and headphones!

 

What goal would you have liked to achieve in five years time?
I’d love to have my own personal training studio in the Chelsea or Fulham plus I’d also love to do my own fitness line at some point as I have a slight addiction to buying stylish activewear.

Shop Tiffany Watson’s Activewear Edit here!

TIFFANY

Fashion “Court-Walk”: Get A Wimbledon Workout Wardrobe!

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Wimbledon is coming up and with a little bit of luck the sun will be shining, so dust of your tennis rackets and hop on the court! We all know that when it comes to tennis it is as much about looking the part as it is about playing so we’ve rounded up some of our favourite looks for the court, and hey, if you don’t dazzle your opposition with your playing, you certainly will with your outfit!

Monreal Dress

Monreal London – Signature Dress
This hot little number is certain to add a spring to your step and strength in your swing! The soft-touch dress is made from performance jersey with stripe-printed, mesh-covered panels bordered by satin stretch taping. A sheer triangle detail at the neck and black neckline add a chic and stylish edge to your tennis look! So, get your game face on and prepare to strike gold with this fierce dress.

monreal skirt

Monreal London – Squad Skirt
Racquets at the ready? This Monreal London Squad skirt perfectly combines quality and high performance. The flattering contrast panels, the inbuilt shorts and the satin elastic waistband, give you optimum support and style for any tough and tense matches! The polka dot panels and the neon-yellow heat sealed seams add a timeless style to your look, all you need to do is swagger on to that court and you will definitely be turning heads.

monreal camisole

Monreal London- Performance Camisole
The Performance Camisole is a brand new style from the Curacao Collection. With an inside sports bra and removable cups you are guaranteed optimum support and comfort! Essential for any competitive tennis match! The Performance Camisole, also, goes perfectly with the Squad skirt. Just imagine the envy your friends will feel when your rock up looking like a pro!

Screen Shot 2016-06-24 at 16.31.12

Varley- Pacific Leggings and Alta Sports Bra in Snow Lion
This chic and elegant combo is perfect from going from the tennis court to a ladies brunch! Not only will all your friends be jealous of your effortless style and elegance, you will feel as if your walking on air with this comfortable and supportive combo. The beauty of this little outfit is enough to kick start your determination and win that all important tennis match.

 

HappyFeetSocks_Blue_12_www.everysecondcounts.co.uk

Every Second Counts- Happy Feet Ankle socks
Now, no tennis look would be complete with out socks, let’s face it, they’re pretty crucial! So, don’t just go for any old socks, Every Seconds Count’s Happy Feet Ankle Socks are perfect for the court. With their Coolplus technology, they will keep your feel cool and dry, and their soft and comfortable material will also give you a spring in your step!

s'well bottle uk

S’well Bottle
Staying hydrated on the court is a definite must, especially when the sun is beating down on the court! So, stay hydrated in style with our striking S’well Bottles. These bad boys will keep anything hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. Perfect for keeping your cool during a hot and sunny tennis match, as well as being made with 100% toxin-free materials! Winning!

varley brentwood tank uk

Varley- Brentwood Tank- White
Varley’s Brentwood technical tank is simple, comfortable and endlessly versatile. Cut from performance stretch fabric, the Brentwood is designed with a relaxed fit and back cutout. The lightweight tank is perfect for keeping you cool and refreshed on the tennis court!

Blue life fit tank

Blue Life Fit- Open Back Tank- White Snake
This perfect draped top with slit down the back allows you to show off your favourite sports bra while staying cool. The snake print detail adds chic edge your tennis look, ideal for anyone looking to stand out on the court and who wants to cover their upper body but show a little skin.

 

Healthy Happenings To Add To You Calendar This Summer!

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This time of year, the race is on to get into shape for our travels! There is no better time to get your skin glowing and your body sculpted! England may not always be sunny and warm, but what you can definitely count on this season, are all the healthy happenings this summer. So clear your schedule to make room in your calendar for these hot, new and healthy happenings coming up! We’ve rounded up some of the hottest events, from yoga and pilates to HIIT classes… we’ve got you covered!

 

Trioyga on the Roof
Head over to the spendy-central Selfridges and up to their restaurant, Forest, on the rooftop for an hour of calming and re-energising yoga. Stretch out and calm your mind with these rejuvenating classes followed by a delicious and nutritious breakfast of avo on toast (our fave) with plenty of fresh fruit and juices.

Dates: every Tuesday from 28th June – 30th August 2016

Time: 10.00 – 11.00am

Price: £20 pre-booked online or £25 on the door

 

 

Equinox #POWEREDBYPRIDE
Equinox, the high-performance lifestyle leader, continues its Global #POWEREDBYPRIDE 2016 “Partners in Pride” Series in London. The event will fuse two Equinox classes, Pilates and HIIT, into one, demonstrating how opposing movements, sounds and personalities can come together as one. So get your trainers on and head down to Equinox, Kensington.

 

Equinox – Summer Residency at Mondrian London
Equinox is also partnering with luxury hotel, Mondrian London for Exclusive Summer Rooftop Fitness Series. We’re so there!

Mondrian, London, has teamed up with Equinox for a summerlong partnership. They will be offering a series of innovative classes in their Rumpus Room, Mondrian London’s exclusive rooftop lounge. The panoramic views of London, will serve as an ideal backdrop for Equinox’s unparalleled fitness program offerings. Available to Equinox members and non-members alike, the challenging, yet inspiring classes are not to be missed!

We’re heading to the Bootcamp class on the 16th July! The high-performance bootcamp class comprises an hour of intense cardio sports drills fused with strength training and exercises designed to help you achieve flawless functional fitness. One hour, one workout, one way to change your body – this class, coached by Anthony Fletcher, will certainly pack a punch.

 

 

Lottie Murphy – Pilates & Relaxation at Daylesford’s Haybarn Spa
Pop over to Bamford’s Haybarn Spa in the beautiful Cotswolds for nourishing and re-energising day, hosted by Daylesford. The day will consist of rejuvenating treatments, pilates and delicious and nutritions organic food lead by Lottie Murphy, a successful fitness and lifestyle blogger with a passion for transforming peoples lives with the power of Pilates! It’s sure to be a very relaxing and rejuvenating day!

The programme will consist of;

10.30 – 11.00 Welcome juice and introduction from Lottie

11.00 – 12.00 Pilates or Bamford Signature Facial treatment

12.15 – 13.00 Lunch and Q&A with Lottie

13.00 – 14.00 Free time to shop and walk around the farm

14.15 – 15.15 Pilates or Bamford Signature Facial treatment

(reverse of the morning)

15.30 – 16.00 Tea and relaxation in the Lavender room

16.00 – 16.30 VIP shopping in Bamford Barn

 

 

Sanderson Spa – Wellbeing Package
Running throughout June, till the end of August, Sanderson’s multi-element wellbeing package will take you a step further to achieving your body and mind goals. The package includes a Wellbeing Menu, curated by nutrition coach, Karen Cummings-Palmer, which will be packed with light and nutritious ingredients. Alongside the menu, Karen will also be offering her ‘Check in, Check up’, 60 minute health consultations with a follow-up Skype sessions.

Sanderson Agua Spa, also welcomes a new resident, Anne de Mamiel. Anne, an acupuncturist, aromatherapist and healing holistic facialist, will also give guests the opportunity to experience her brand new pollution proof Atmospherics collection. Designed over five years, guests will be treated to the ‘de Mamiel Elixir Experience’ – a 60 minute treatment which as been specifically designed to combat the damaging effects of environmental stress and rejuvenate skin – perfect for those living or visiting London over the coming months! Guests who sign up to Sanderson Wellbeing can enjoy:

An overnight stay for two people with a complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability)

A healthy breakfast for two including sugar-free granola, fresh fruit smoothies and cold press coffee

Two course lunch OR dinner from the Wellbeing Menu for two people, served in-room or in agua Spa‘Check In, Check Up’ package with certified health and nutirition coach Karen Cummings-Palmer

60-minute ‘de Mamiel Elixir Experience’ from Annee de Mamiel’s new Atmosphériques collection

The package is priced from £745 and is available until 31st August 2016, based on two people sharing a room and one person partaking in the nutritionist sessions and Elixir Experience.

Additional treatments, including personal training sessions with Jamie Baird, are also available upon request.

 

Focus on your wellbeing at Bodyism in Turkey
If you only book one thing this summer it has to be this! Bodyism’s permanent residence at D-Hotel Maris in Turkey, is a luxury get-away certain to whip you up into shape, whilst you relax, unwind and renergerise in the sun!  Bodyism has been transforming bodies all around the world, with incredible success over the last ten years. With clients that include Lara Stone, Rosie-Huntington-Whiteley and Hugh Grant, it is safe to say, they are at the top of their game!

 

Set on a high cliff overlooking turquoise water, with breathtaking views, there is no better place to get into shape and watch your troubles float away. The gym is surrounded by the resort’s five beaches, seven restaurants, a spa, diving centre and tennis academy. You can see Greece across the beautiful body of water from the bodyism gym while being coached by one of the elite bodyism specialists. The Clean and Lean ethos is echoed throughout the resort, enabling guests to access cutting edge wellness solutions in the most luxurious surroundings imaginable! Need we say more!

 

words by Olivia Fantoni

Quinoa & Courgette Herb Cake

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These little Quinoa & Courgette Herb Cakes are free of gluten and dairy if you’re sensitive to either. The quinoa gives them a firm, nutty texture, which is delicious with the fresh herbs and courgette/zucchini. Dipped in a little garlic mayonnaise, chilli jam or tomato chutney, they’re wonderful!

 

Serves 4

Ingredients 

140g/5oz/1 cup quinoa

300g/101⁄2oz courgette/zucchini, grated

3 spring onions/scallions, sliced

1 garlic clove, crushed

handful of mint leaves, shredded

handful of parsley leaves, chopped

10 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

juice of 1⁄2 lemon

55g/2oz/1⁄2 cup cornflour/cornstarch

1 egg

rapeseed/canola oil, for frying

sea salt and freshly ground

black pepper

garlic mayonnaise, chilli jam or tomato chutney, to serve

green salad, to serve

 

Method

Tip the quinoa into a small saucepan and cover with 300ml/101⁄2fl oz/11⁄4 cups of cold water. Bring to the boil, cover with a lid and cook for about 5 minutes until all the water has been absorbed and the quinoa is cooked. Turn out into a bowl and leave to one side to cool.

Meanwhile, place the grated courgette/zucchini in the bowl of a food processor with the spring onions/scallions, garlic, mint, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, lemon juice and cornflour/cornstarch. Crack the egg straight into the mixture, add the quinoa, and season with salt and pepper. Blend for about 30 seconds to mix the ingredients thoroughly and to form a thick paste. Tip the mixture out into a bowl and taste to check the seasoning.

Heat about 5mm/1⁄4in rapeseed/canola oil in a large frying pan until the oil is hot enough to sizzle loudly when you drop in a tiny bit of the courgette/ zucchini mixture.

Drop a heaped tablespoon of the mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon to form round patties. Repeat until you have 3–4 cakes in the pan at the same time, or as many as your pan will fit comfortably, with room to turn.

After 3–4 minutes the underside of the cakes should be nicely golden and holding their shape. Gently flip them over and cook until the second side is golden. Lift the cakes out of the oil onto some paper towels and keep warm. Repeat until all of the mixture has been used; you should end up with 12–14 cakes. Serve the cakes warm with green salad and your choice of dip.

 

NOTE: To make a very quick garlic mayonnaise or aioli, add

2 crushed garlic cloves to 4 tbsp good-quality mayonnaise along with a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with freshly ground black pepper and, if needed, a little sea salt.

Recipe taken from Healthy Speedy Suppers, written by Katriona Macgregor

Happy Plugs Launch – Why You NEED This Stylish Fit Accessory!

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Happy Plugs is a hot new brand, creating chic, comfortable and stylish essential tech accessories. These must-have earphones, (which we are excitedly now stocking!), are the perfect workout accessory and handbag essential to compliment your every day look. Happy Plugs are more than just a tech brand, they are a way to express yourself and capture your world of fashion and music.

 

The idea behind Happy Plugs is simple; tech accessories should not only fit your device, but also your outfit. Similar to any fashion brand, Happy Plugs add fresh and on trend colours and collection every season. Ensuring that every season you can look your best from head to toe!

Happy PLugs 02

Born in Sweden and known for their stylish eclectic style, this inspiring company are renowned for their innovative and elegant products. Both their packaging and style has won prestigious awards, in particular, the Guldknappen Award, which is presented to Swedish fashion designers to encourage Swedish fashion design.

 

So what colour are you? We’re stocking Pink, Mint, Rose Gold, Marble, Leopard, Silver, Gold and 3 colours in the Sport MFI earphones; Black, Turquoise and Cerise! Head over to our store here and grab yourself a pair!