Connect with us

Fitness

Best sports and fitness equipment: Turn your home into a haven of good health

Published

on

Best sports and fitness equipment: Turn your home into a haven of good health

Whether you’re looking to build a comprehensive home gym or simply add a few key pieces to your fitness routine, our selection will help you make the right choice. Fret not and explore our top picks, including high-quality treadmills, walking pads, exercise cycles, and various gym equipment designed to meet all your workout needs.

With treadmills and walking pads, users can conveniently meet their cardio needs and fortunately, most of our picks don’t require extensive space. This way, you can burn calories and improve your cardiovascular health without taking over your space.

Exercise cycles are able to provide a low-impact workout that strengthens your legs and core and with our range of gym equipment, from weights to resistance bands, you can perform a full-body workout without leaving home. So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of these incredible deals to invest in your health and fitness and turn your home into the ultimate wellness retreat.

1. Kore PVC 16 Kg Home Gym Set With One 3 Ft Curl And One Pair Dumbbell Rods With Gym Accessories, Black

The Kore PVC 10-40 Kg home gym set includes a 3 ft curl rod and a pair of dumbbell rods, along with essential gym accessories, making it a great addition to your home gym. With this versatile set, buyers can enjoy a comprehensive workout at home, catering to various strength training needs. With the PVC weights, buyers can enjoy ease of use and long-term durability, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts. So, what are you waiting for? Transform your home gym with this all-in-one set that is designed to take your fitness routine to the next level.

Specifications of Kore PVC 10-40 Kg Home Gym Set:

Weight range: 10-40 Kg

Advertisement

Rod lengths: Includes one 3 ft curl rod and a pair of dumbbell rods

Material: Durable PVC weights

Accessories: Comes with essential gym accessories for a complete workout setup

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid

Advertisement
Versatile workout: Suitable for various exercises Limited weight range: Max 40 Kg
Durable material: PVC weights ensure longevity Space required: Needs storage space

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers praise its suitability for beginners and ease of use, along with performance and value. However, some report missing pieces and material issues.

Why choose this product?

Choose the Kore PVC Home Gym Set for its versatile workout options, durable materials, and comprehensive accessories, ideal for home fitness.

2. Lifelong FitPro Motorised Treadmill

Advertisement

The Lifelong FitPro (2.5 HP Peak) manual incline motorised treadmill is designed for home use and features 12 preset workouts and a maximum speed of 12km/hr. In addition, it includes a Bluetooth speaker for an improved exercise experience and also supports a maximum user weight of 100 kg. With this treadmill, you get a reliable and efficient workout solution that’s perfect for people who wish to maintain fitness at home. With its robust motor and user-friendly features, the Lifelong FitPro will deliver an enjoyable workout experience at home.

Specifications of Lifelong FitPro Motorised Treadmill:

Motor power: 2.5 HP Peak

Incline: Manual Incline

Preset workouts: 12 preset workouts

Maximum speed: 12 km/hr

Advertisement

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid

Versatile workouts: 12 preset programs Manual incline: No automatic adjustment
Entertainment: Built-in Bluetooth speaker Max speed: Limited to 12 km/hr

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Most buyers like the treadmill’s speed, compactness, and affordability. They mention it works well with 8 speed levels and is easy to install. Mixed opinions on noise and size.

Why choose this product?

Advertisement

Pick the Lifelong FitPro for its versatile 12 preset workouts, built-in Bluetooth speaker, robust 2.5 HP motor, and user-friendly features.

3. Reach AB-110 BST Air Bike Exercise Cycle with Moving or Stationary Handle | with Back Support Seat & Twister | Adjustable Resistance | Fitness Cycle for Home Gym

The Reach AB-110 BST air bike is a marvel for gym rats. This exercise cycle offers multiple workout options with moving or stationary handles and includes a back support seat and twister. Still want more? With this bike, you can enjoy adjustable resistance levels catering to various fitness levels, making it great for home gyms. In essence, this fitness cycle provides an effective cardiovascular workout, promoting overall health and fitness from the comfort of your home. With the Reach air bike, you can reach the height of good health without having to leave the comfort of your home.

Specifications of Reach AB-110 BST Air Bike:

Handle type: Moving or stationary handles

Additional features: Back support seat and twister

Resistance: Adjustable resistance levels

Advertisement

Intended use: Fitness cycle for home gym

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid

Versatile workout: Moving or stationary handles Compact design: Limited space required
Additional features: Back support seat and twister Limited resistance levels: Few options for intensity adjustment

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

According to buyers, the bike offers realism, sturdiness, and ease of assembly. They value its appearance, performance, and affordability. Mixed opinions on comfort and durability.

Advertisement

Why choose this product?

Consider buying the Reach AB-110 BST Air Bike for its versatile workout options, adjustable resistance, back support seat, and compact design for home gyms.

Also Read: Best gym ball to achieve your fitness goals: Top 10 options to enhance your workout routine

4. PowerMax Fitness TD-M1 (4HP Peak) Pre-installed Motorized Foldable Treadmill for Home Use | Manual-Incline Treadmill | Semi-Auto Lubrication | Multifunction Console LCD Display, BT, Speaker, MP3, AUX

The PowerMax Fitness TD-M1 is a foldable treadmill designed for home use. It comes with a host of features and capabilities, including a 4HP peak motor and manual incline. It’s also equipped with semi-auto lubrication, a multifunction console with LCD display, Bluetooth, speaker, MP3, and AUX compatibility, making this treadmill a dependable workout companion with numerous options for added convenience. With its compact design, home gym owners will enjoy working out without compromising their available space. This way, you get an efficient cardio workout solution for all fitness levels.

Specifications of PowerMax Fitness Motorised Foldable Treadmill:

Motor: 4HP Peak

Advertisement

Incline: Manual

Lubrication: Semi-Auto

Console: Multifunction LCD Display with Bluetooth, Speaker, MP3, and AUX compatibility

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid

Advertisement
Powerful motor: 4HP peak for efficient workouts Manual incline: Lack of automatic adjustment
Convenient features: Bluetooth, speaker, MP3 Lubrication system: Semi-auto may require maintenance

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Customers praise the treadmill’s ease of installation and user-friendliness, citing smooth operation and performance. They appreciate its durability, value, sturdiness, and quality. Mixed opinions on service and noise.

Why choose this product?

Buy the PowerMax Fitness TD-M1 for its powerful 4HP motor, convenient features like Bluetooth and MP3 compatibility, and foldable design for home use.

5. Reach Mini Bike Digital Pedal Exerciser | Home Exercise Equipment | Mini Cycle for Home Workout with Fixing Strap, Adjustable Resistance & LCD Display | for Light Exercise & Physiotherapy at Home

The Reach Mini Bike Digital Pedal Exerciser is a great choice for home workouts and physiotherapy. This exerciser comes with adjustable resistance, a fixing strap, and an LCD display, making it a convenient way to engage in light exercise. It’s also compact and may be used for multiple purposes, making this mini cycle an effective means to stay active and improve mobility from the comfort of your home. If you’re looking for a rehabilitation companion or a regular exercise tool, this practical tool will mark a worthy addition to any home fitness routine.

Advertisement

Specifications of Reach Mini Bike Digital Pedal Exerciser:

Adjustable resistance: Yes

Fixing strap: Included

LCD display: Yes

Exercise intensity: Light

Reasons to buy

Advertisement

Reasons to avoid

Adjustable resistance: Tailored workout intensity Limited exercise intensity: Designed for light exercise
LCD display: Track progress Basic features: Few additional features

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Buyers appreciate the stationary bicycle for its effectiveness and portability, ideal for home exercise and quick workouts. They value its quality, comfort, and value, but have mixed opinions on the display.

Why choose this product?

Check out the Reach Mini Bike for its convenience, offering adjustable resistance, LCD display, and portability for light exercise and physiotherapy at home.

Advertisement

Also Read: Best workout bike for home: Pedal toward your fitness goals with our 8 picks worth considering

6. PowerMax Fitness JOGPAD-2 Treadmill

The PowerMax Fitness JOGPAD-2 is a multi-purpose 2-in-1 treadmill and walking pad that offers a compact design for easy storage. With a 4.0HP peak motor, this treadmill provides a powerful workout experience. This treadmill has a slim profile that allows for convenient storage under the bed or sofa. In addition, it also comes with a remote controller and Bluetooth speaker for extra convenience and entertainment during workouts. Who is this ideal for? If you’re looking for options to stay fit at home, consider this treadmill that’s perfect for users who wish to stay active in compact spaces.

Specifications of PowerMax Fitness JOGPAD-2 Treadmill:

Motor: 4.0HP Peak

Design: 2-in-1 Compact Foldable (Treadmill + Under Desk Walking Pad)

Advertisement

Storage: Slim design for under bed or sofa storage

Features: Remote controller, Bluetooth speaker

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid

2-in-1 design: Treadmill and Walking Pad Limited features: Basic functionality
Compact and foldable: Easy storage Motor power: Peak power may not suit all users

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Advertisement

Buyers appreciate the treadmill’s quality, ease of installation, value, and portability. Mixed opinions exist on speed and noise levels.

Why choose this product?

Pick the PowerMax Fitness JOGPAD-2 for its versatile 2-in-1 design, compact foldable structure, remote controller, and Bluetooth speaker convenience.

7. Reach NM-200 Curved Manual Treadmill

The Reach NM-200 Curved Manual Treadmill is designed for a well-rounded workout experience for walking, jogging, and running. This treadmill comes with a maximum user weight of 150kgs and provides a sturdy platform for a full-body workout, making it ideal for home gyms. With this treadmill, users can achieve their fitness goals with cardio exercises tailored to their needs. In addition, its curved design means a natural running motion, promoting better form and reduced joint impact for a hard-hitting workout session everyday at home. Bring one home today!

Advertisement

Specifications of Reach NM-200 Curved Manual Treadmill:

Type: Curved Manual Treadmill

Maximum user weight: 150kgs

Fitness functionality: Walking, Jogging, Running

Usage: Suitable for Home Gyms

Reasons to buy

Advertisement

Reasons to avoid

Versatile workout: Walking, Jogging, Running Manual operation: Requires physical effort
High weight capacity: Supports up to 150kgs Limited features: Basic functionality

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

The treadmill’s space-saving design, value, quality, and comfort, with a spacious running pad and ease of use are appreciated by users. There are mixed opinions on noise and service.

Why choose this product?

Pick the Reach NM-200 for its versatile fitness functionality, sturdy build supporting up to 150kgs, and effective full-body cardio workout capability.

Advertisement

Also Read: Best air bike for your home gym: Pedal your way to fitness with top 10 picks for intense workouts

8. amazon basics Air Bike Exercise Cycle With Moving Or Stationary Handles, Adjustable Cushioned Seat, Max User Weight 110 Kg, Multi

The Amazon Basics Air Bike is a worthy consideration for your exercise needs. Why do we say that? This bike promises diverse usage with moving or stationary handles and an adjustable cushioned seat. It comes with a maximum user weight of 110 kg and accommodates users of various sizes. This exercise cycle provides a full-body workout that promotes cardiovascular health and muscle toning. In addition, its sturdy build ensures stability during intense workouts, making it a reliable addition to any home gym. Look no further and enjoy personalised fitness routines with this multifunctional exercise cycle from Amazon Basics.

Specifications of Amazon Basics Air Bike:

Handle type: Moving or stationary handles

Seat: Adjustable cushioned seat

Maximum user weight: 110 kg

Advertisement

Functionality: Multifunctional

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid

Versatile handles: Moving or stationary Limited weight capacity: Max 110 kg
Adjustable seat: Cushioned for comfort Basic functionality: Few additional features

What are buyers saying on Amazon?

Most buyers value the stationary bicycle for its affordability, performance, and easy installation. However, some report issues with service. Mixed opinions on noise and quality.

Advertisement

Why choose this product?

Pick the Amazon Basics Air Bike for its versatile handles, adjustable cushioned seat, and sturdy build supporting up to 110 kg.

What specific fitness goals do you wish to meet with fitness and sports equipment?

If your goal is to improve cardiovascular health, cardio equipment like treadmills or stationary bikes may be suitable. For strength training, consider weightlifting equipment.

How much space do you have available for fitness and sports equipment?

Measure the available space in your home or gym to ensure the equipment fits comfortably without overcrowding.

What is your budget for fitness and sports equipment?

Determine a budget based on your limits and the quality of equipment you require. Consider both upfront costs and potential long-term maintenance expenses.

Advertisement

What features of fitness and sports equipment are essential for your workouts?

Consider factors such as adjustable resistance, workout programmes, display features, and durability to ensure the equipment meets your specific needs and preferences.

Also Read: Best home fitness cycle: 10 smooth, quiet, and effective picks to meet your workout needs everyday

Factors to consider while buying fitness and sports equipment

  • Fitness goals: Consider your specific fitness objectives, whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, or cardiovascular health.
  • Space: Evaluate the available area in your home or gym to ensure the equipment fits comfortably.
  • Budget: Determine a realistic budget based on the quality and features you require.
  • Quality and durability: Invest in equipment made from durable materials to ensure longevity and safety during workouts.
  • Versatility: Choose equipment that offers a variety of exercise options to accommodate different workout routines.
  • Safety features: Look for equipment with safety features such as secure grips, adjustable settings, and emergency stop buttons.
  • User-friendly: Opt for equipment that is easy to use and adjust, with clear instructions and intuitive controls.
  • Warranty and support: Check the warranty coverage and available customer support services to address any issues or concerns after purchase.

Also Read: Best manual treadmill: Top 10 options to boost your home workout experience, pick from the budget-friendly options

Top 3 features of best sports and fitness equipment

Best sports and fitness equipment

Workout Device Type

Workout Features

Advertisement

Target

Kore PVC Home Gym Set Home Gym Set Dumbbells, Curl Bar, Gym Accessories Strength Training
Lifelong FitPro Treadmill Motorized Treadmill Manual Incline, Preset Workouts, Bluetooth Speaker Cardio
Reach AB-110 BST Air Bike Exercise Cycle Air Bike Moving/Stationary Handle, Back Support Seat, Adjustable Resistance Cardio
PowerMax Fitness TD-M1 Treadmill Motorized Treadmill Manual Incline, Semi-Auto Lubrication, Multifunction Console Cardio
Reach Mini Bike Digital Pedal Exerciser Mini Exercise Cycle Fixing Strap, Adjustable Resistance, LCD Display Light Exercise
PowerMax Fitness JOGPAD-2 2-in-1 Treadmill Foldable Treadmill Under Desk Walking Pad, Remote Controller, Bluetooth Speaker Cardio
Reach NM-200 Curved Manual Treadmill Curved Manual Treadmill Walking, Jogging, Running Full Body Workout
Amazon Basics Air Bike Exercise Cycle Air Bike Moving/Stationary Handles, Adjustable Seat, Multi-functional Cardio

Similar articles for you

Best Gym Treadmill: Best Gym Treadmill: Top 8 picks with the latest features for effective home workout session

Best Durafit treadmill: Top 6 options for every fitness enthusiast to elevate home workout

Best PowerMax treadmill: Top 8 picks to ensure you can start your fitness journey with ease

Best cross trainer machine: Enjoy the complete fitness package at home with our 10 picks

Advertisement

Best walking pad: Walk your way to wellness for long-term fitness with our top 10 picks

FAQs

Question : What types of exercises can I perform with this equipment?

Ans : This depends on the specific equipment. For example, treadmills are ideal for walking, jogging, and running, while home gym sets offer a variety of strength training exercises.

Question : How much space is needed for this equipment?

Advertisement

Ans : The space required varies depending on the equipment. Treadmills and home gym sets typically require more space compared to smaller equipment like exercise cycles or mini pedal exercisers.

Question : Is assembly required?

Ans : Most fitness equipment requires some level of assembly. The complexity of assembly varies, so it’s essential to check the product manual or assembly instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Question : What is the weight capacity of the equipment?

Ans : Weight capacity differs for each equipment type. It’s crucial to ensure that the equipment can safely support your weight to prevent accidents or damage.

Advertisement

Question : Does the equipment come with a warranty?

Ans : Many fitness equipment manufacturers offer warranties to cover defects in materials and workmanship. It’s essential to review the warranty terms to understand what is covered and for how long.

Disclaimer: At Livemint, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Mint has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

Advertisement

You are on Mint! India’s #1 news destination (Source: Press Gazette). To learn more about our business coverage and market insights Click Here!

Catch all the Technology News and Updates on Live Mint.
Download The Mint News App to get Daily Market Updates & Live Business News.

More
Less

Published: 06 Jun 2024, 03:41 PM IST

Advertisement

Fitness

‘I’m a pelvic floor PT – this simple core move works better than dead bugs’

Published

on

‘I’m a pelvic floor PT – this simple core move works better than dead bugs’

It’s not that Rachel Collins thinks dead bugs aren’t a good core exercise, it’s just that, for the majority of us, she thinks there might be a better alternative: weighted taps.

Below, the pelvic floor expert tells WH why she’s made the swap and how to nail your technique to get the most out of this exercise.

Benefits of weighted taps

‘The Dead Bug is a popular core exercise but maintaining proper form to ensure good core connection is also very difficult,’ says Collins, who focuses on abdominal strengthening in much of her work as a pelvic floor physical therapist. ‘When reaching an arm overhead and kicking a leg out, many women flare their ribs and arch their lower back. This makes it harder to activate the lower core and can cause lower back pain.’

‘I love performing weighted taps instead because adding a weight requires you to push up, which helps push those ribs back so you can maintain a better rib and pelvis position, keeping the lower core engaged,’ she adds. ‘It just feels so much better for me and helps many people maintain better core activation to get the most out of the exercise.’

How to do weighted taps with good form

Here, Collins outlines how to perform weighted taps with good technique.

Advertisement
  • Push the weight up towards the ceiling
  • Shoulder blades come off the floor
  • Inhale through the nose with your legs in the air
  • Exhale through your mouth to tap one foot down
Rachel Collins

Rachel Collins demonstrating her favourite core exercise: weighted taps

And a bonus tip? ‘It [can help] to use a towel roll under your back where you feel it is arched more to give your back something to press into during the exercise.’

Mistakes to avoid

Common mistakes to avoid when doing the exercise, adds Collins, include:

  • Lifting your head off the ground
  • Not using a heavy enough weight
  • Feeling increased tension in the neck

Why a strong core is so important

Maintaining your core strength as you age is crucial to staying strong, active and independent. By improving balance and stability, a strong core – which encompasses your back, abdominals, pelvic floor, diaphragm, hips and glutes – can help prevent falls, improving overall longevity. One recent study found that core training improved balance, plus throwing, hitting and jumping ability.

In other words, by adding regular core exercises – like weighted taps – to your routine, you’re getting a whole lot of bang for your buck.


Having a strong core is about far more than sporting a six-pack. Build functional mid-section strength – while also improving your power, posture, coordination and balance – with WH COLLECTIVE coach Izy George’s 4-week core challenge. Download the Women’s Health UK app to access the full training plan today.

Get the app

Advertisement
izy george 4 week core challenge

Headshot of Hannah Bradfield

Hannah Bradfield is a Senior Health and Fitness Writer for Women’s Health UK. An NCTJ-accredited journalist, Hannah graduated from Loughborough University with a BA in English and Sport Science and an MA in Media and Cultural Analysis.  She has been covering sports, health and fitness for the last five years and has created content for outlets including BBC Sport, BBC Sounds, Runner’s World and Stylist. She especially enjoys interviewing those working within the community to improve access to sport, exercise and wellness. Hannah is a 2024 John Schofield Trust Fellow and was also named a 2022 Rising Star in Journalism by The Printing Charity.  A keen runner, Hannah was firmly a sprinter growing up (also dabbling in long jump) but has since transitioned to longer-distance running. While 10K is her favoured race distance, she loves running or volunteering at parkrun every Saturday, followed, of course, by pastries. She’s always looking for fun new runs and races to do and brunch spots to try.

Continue Reading

Fitness

Western student improves physical activity for youth – Western News

Published

on

Western student improves physical activity for youth – Western News

Children and youth with autism and intellectual disabilities are statistically the least likely to meet physical activity guidelines.

“It isn’t because of the individual,” said Connor Murphy, fourth-year kinesiology student in the Faculty of Health Sciences. “These kids are not any less capable than anyone else, it’s because of systemic barriers that they aren’t receiving the benefits of exercise.”  

Youth with disabilities often face higher barriers to entry, whether that be higher costs or an inaccessible environment. Murphy is helping to break down these very roadblocks.

In September 2025, Murphy began a practicum with GoodLife Kids Foundation, a charitable organization founded in 1998 that supports children and youth with autism and intellectual disabilities through physical activity and fitness.  

The foundation’s MOVE program offers free virtual and in-person classes across Canada. 

Advertisement

“MOVE Coaches are certified fitness professionals who receive specialized training, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to lead inclusive, engaging and impactful classes for participants,” said Kyla Crocker, director of the MOVE program.   

Classes are made up of warm-up movements, exercise circuits, games, dance breaks and cool-down mindfulness activities.

 

But before Murphy started his placement, there was no formal exercise circuit programming tool included.

Advertisement

“Coaches would have to pick their own exercise moves throughout the class, which became quite repetitive.”   

He set out to create the first Exercise Resource Circuit Guide, a tool that supports coaches with programming specifically tailored for youth with autism and intellectual disabilities. The guide introduces a series of science-backed movements to better support participants. Diving into research, and using the training principles learned throughout his bachelor of science in kinesiology, Murphy created a guide that would specifically support youth participants and their needs.  

“I did a lot of research on what would work for this population. Stability, balance, and jumping exercises have very profound motor benefits for youth with disabilities. Ball sports can also play a big role in improving executive function.”  

 

Experiential learning drives impact

Using research to build unique plans that would help youth benefit not only physically, but cognitively, was important for Murphy.  

Advertisement

“Now, coaches can use an evidence-based tool to support them in planning their classes. These circuits are built with variety and promote better participation,” he said.  

Debuting this year within the MOVE program, the Exercise Circuit Guide will have an impact beyond Murphy’s placement – a resource that Crocker recognizes as a legacy tool.  

“Connor should be really proud of the impact he’s leaving behind. It speaks to the contribution Western students have continuously made during their time with us.” – Kyla Crocker, director of GoodLife Kids Foundation MOVE program

As the third student from Western to complete a placement with the foundation, Crocker can attest to the power of hands-on, integrative learning opportunities like these.

“We strive to embody a quote from Ben Franklin, ‘Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn,’” she said. 

Experiential learning is built into the Faculty of Health Sciences student experience, from opportunities in practicums and internships, to active labs and and community-engaged learning. With over 150 employer partners including the GoodLife Kids Foundation, and over 650 undergraduate students placed since 2023, students receive a deep understanding of their field before embarking on their careers.  

And Murphy himself cites the power of involvement. Having participated in MOVE classes to support coaches, interact with youth and test his own circuit guide before the program-wide launch, he said it’s an experience he will never forget.  

Advertisement

“They call it the MOVE magic – there’s honestly nothing else like it. The first time I saw the smiles on these kids’ faces and the way they were interacting with the coaches was just incredible.”  

 

Power of movement fosters inclusion

After his time spent in MOVE classes, seeing the impact his resources could have, Murphy’s view on health care shifted.

“It opened my eyes to the disparities not just in sport, but all physical activity. I know this placement is going to impact how I deliver my care as a future clinical professional, to be more inclusive and focused on marginalized populations,” he said.  

Gaining a deeper understanding of the power of movement through community building is something Crocker hopes all practicum students will take away from the purpose-driven organization, no matter the healthcare profession they choose.   

Advertisement

“Knowing that my work is going to have a lasting impact, and serve as a foundation for future programs, is a really good feeling,” Murphy said. “I have a lot of pride in the work I put in.”   

Murphy’s Exercise Circuit Guide will be available to all MOVE coaches in 2026, with some classes implementing the guide as early as this month. On April 13, the foundation will be launching the MOVE Program in five more GoodLife Fitness locations across Canada, including London, Ont.’s very first in-person MOVE class. Registration is open now for youth ages 12 to 21.  

Learn more about how Western is preparing future leaders and global citizens.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Fitness

Top fitness guru reveals 3 common nutrition mistakes people make before exercise

Published

on

Top fitness guru reveals 3 common nutrition mistakes people make before exercise

Are you guilty of making these mistakes before exercising? (Image: Getty)

A top fitness guru has revealed the three nutrition ‘fails’ people make before exercising. Sport and exercise expert, Dr. Amos Ogunkoya GP spoke out after a poll of 2,000 adults who exercise at least twice-a-week, revealed coffee, biscuits and even chocolate are on the list of things many consume before the gym as it gives them a ‘sugar boost’.

But Dr Ogunkoya admitted it’s all about timing, as all of the above can seriously affect a person’s ability to workout efficiently and may even impact overall performance and development.

He said: “For anyone trying to keep fit there is so much food related information out there it’s hard to know exactly how to structure your exercise routine. You do not need anything complicated, but many people rely on guesswork when it comes to fuelling exercise.

“In clinic and in sport, I commonly see three key pitfalls. These are training under-fuelled, relying on quick sugar fixes, and mistiming nutrition, all of which can impact performance.”

Advertisement

The research was commissioned by Flora as part of its partnership with the TCS London Marathon, which is going on a food tour offering free flapjacks and recipe inspiration across the UK.

It showed four in 10 admit they have no idea if what they’re eating is actually helping them exercise.

Read more: London Marathon ‘set for major change’ as plans leaked weeks before event

Read more: ‘I’m a cardiologist – here are the six things I never do after 6pm’

Pasta, energy drinks like Red Bull or Monster and sweets featured on the list of things people will snack on before they exercise.

Advertisement

Gen Z exercisers aged 18 to 29 are nearly three times more likely to reach for these sugary drinks than the average (13% versus five%).

When it comes to selecting a snack prior to physical activity, other than hydration, most look for a quick energy boost, convenience or something that’s easy to digest.

However, 27% of those polled via OnePoll.com often exercise on an empty stomach, while 46% are also likely to skip breakfast if they’re in a rush.

As such, 20% of respondents often experience energy crashes when they are unable to correctly fuel their body and a further 37% admitted this ‘sometimes’ happens. Aside from exercise, when it comes to their everyday life 20% said they often feel like they’re ‘running on empty’.

Following a workout the top three foods people will eat are fruit (26%), proteins such as eggs (19%) and whole foods (15%).

Advertisement

Most (76%) reckon they’ll nourish themselves enough after exercise but if they didn’t, it was due to lack of time, no appetite or being too tired.

Flora’s food tour aims to show how simple, nutritionally balanced choices – including plant-based options – can support energy, performance and recovery.

It will kick off in Birmingham on Thursday 16 April and travel across the UK, before finishing in London for the TCS London Marathon.

Dr. Amos added: “Caffeine can improve performance, but timing matters. Ideally this should be taken 40 to 60 minutes before exercise, rather than immediately before starting.

“Energy drinks and sugary snacks might give a short-term boost, but they are often followed by a dip in energy. For most people, simple carbohydrates and good hydration are far more effective.

Advertisement

“Some people prefer training fasted, and that can work depending on the session, but for higher intensity exercise, being under fuelled will usually limit performance.

“Most people are trying to do the right thing, but small adjustments to how you fuel before exercise can make a meaningful difference to both energy levels and overall results.”

TOP 25 FOOD AND DRINK PEOPLE CONSUME BEFORE EXERCISE:

  1. Water
  2. Piece of fruit or vegetable
  3. Coffee
  4. Porridge
  5. Yogurt
  6. Toast
  7. Eggs
  8. Protein bar
  9. Protein drink/shake
  10. Fruit smoothie
  11. Biscuits
  12. Sports drink (e.g. Lucozade)
  13. Chocolate
  14. Pasta
  15. Energy drink (e.g. Redbull or Monster)
  16. Cheese
  17. Sweets
  18. Hydration gel sachet/electrolytes
  19. Pre workout
  20. A plant-based meal
  21. Rice cakes
  22. Cold meat
  23. Pizza
  24. Creatine
  25. A roast dinner

Continue Reading

Trending