Fitness
Lower-calorie Mediterranean diet and exercise limit bone loss, even during weight loss, study finds
Older women who stayed on a reduced-calorie Mediterranean diet, walked and did resistance training for three years improved their bone density, especially in their lower backs, a new study found.
“A reduced-energy Mediterranean diet involves participants consuming a modified version of the traditional Mediterranean diet with approximately 30% fewer calories than their usual intake,” said coauthor Jesús Francisco García-Gavilán, a senior biostatistician at the University Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain.
Women in the study, who ranged in age from 55 to 75, were also able to prevent bone deterioration that typically occurs during weight loss, according to the research published Tuesday in the journal JAMA Network Open.
“Previous research has indicated that losing weight, particularly through diet alone, can lead to a reduction in bone density, which poses risks for older adults. Additionally, exercising alone does not always prevent this issue,” García-Gavilán said in an email.
“What is new in this study is the finding that combining a well-balanced, reduced-calorie Mediterranean diet with physical activity can prevent bone loss in older women, even while they are losing weight,” he said. “This emphasizes that the type of diet is important during weight loss, not just the calorie intake.”
The results of the study are not that surprising, said Dr. Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention and wellness at National Jewish Health in Denver.
“When you practice the lifestyle that human beings were always meant to live, which is moving a lot and eating predominantly simple, plant-based foods, all sorts of systems get better, including bone density,” said Freeman, who was not involved in the new research.
The Mediterranean diet is full of good fats, vitamins, calcium and other minerals that support good bone health. – jeffbergen/E+/Getty Images
Why the Mediterranean diet?
The new study is part of the PREDIMED-Plus trial, a randomized clinical trial on lifestyle interventions conducted in 23 medical centers and hospitals in Spain. The trial included 924 older adults with metabolic syndrome who were overweight or had obesity. Half were randomized to eating a Mediterranean diet with no restrictions on calories and no requirement to exercise.
The other half were encouraged to walk for a minimum of 45 minutes per day six days per week and to do strength, flexibility and balance exercises three days per week. Their diet was cut to about 30% fewer calories than they typically consumed and only from a Mediterranean-style eating plan. Women in this group saw significantly stronger bones at one year and at three years into the study.
“While previous results from the PREDIMED-Plus trial highlighted benefits for maintaining lean mass and losing weight, this is the first publication to demonstrate that these lifestyle changes can also help preserve bone density, especially in older women,” García-Gavilán said.
The award-winning Mediterranean diet features simple, plant-based cooking, with much of each meal focused on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and seeds, with a few nuts and a heavy emphasis on extra-virgin olive oil. Fats other than olive oil, such as butter, are consumed rarely, if at all, and sugar and refined foods are avoided.
Red meat is used sparingly, often only to flavor a dish. Eating healthy, oily fish, which are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, is encouraged, while eggs, dairy and poultry are eaten in much smaller portions than in the traditional Western diet.
Eating the Mediterranean way has been linked to reductions in the risk for breast cancer, dementia, depression, diabetes, high cholesterol and memory loss. Adherence to the diet can also lead to a healthier heart, weight loss and longer life.
But exactly why would the meal plan help preserve bone?
“The Mediterranean diet is rich in nutrients that promote bone health,” García-Gavilán said. “Nuts and dairy products provide essential calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D. Healthy fats, such as those found in olive oil, have been shown to reduce inflammation.”
Antioxidants such as vitamin C from fruits and vegetables may help protect and support bone cells, García-Gavilán added, while other important vitamins, like vitamin K found in vegetables such as spinach, play a role in bone formation.
“Together, these nutrients can lower the risk of bone loss and support bone maintenance, especially as we age,” García-Gavilán said. “Understanding this nutritional context is crucial for maintaining our long-term quality of life.”
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Fitness
5 top-rated exercise bikes for home to stay active, burn calories, and boost fitness in 2026
We are inching towards the end of 2025, and it’s time for New Year fitness resolutions. Staying active during the year-end can be tough. Cold weather, holiday celebrations, and packed schedules often push workouts to the back, leaving many feeling sluggish or stressed. But you don’t have to wait for the new year to get moving. An exercise bike offers a simple, no-excuses solution, bringing effective workouts right into your home. It eliminates travel, weather, and time barriers, making it easy to stay consistent.
Beyond convenience, cycling is a low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health, boosts mood through the release of endorphins, and helps manage holiday weight without straining the joints. Even short, daily rides can maintain energy, strengthen the heart, and support overall wellness, helping you finish the year fitter, healthier, and more active.
Why choose an exercise bike?
Exercise bikes offer a low-impact cardio that works. Here are some key reasons why an exercise bike may be better than doing no exercise at all!
Joint-friendly cardio
A report by the Scandinavian Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine Supplement states that cycling delivers an effective cardiovascular workout without the high-impact stress on knees and joints that comes with running, making it ideal for year-round use.
Metabolic boost
Regular pedalling helps keep your metabolism active, supporting calorie burn even on lighter or rest days. Consistent cycling can help maintain an energy balance and assist in managing holiday weight gain.
Mental clarity
Beyond physical benefits, cycling serves as a form of active recovery. A short ride after a long day can help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost your mood, thanks to the release of endorphins and gentle movement that relaxes both your body and mind, reports Health Shots.
Helps you keep lifestyle diseases at bay
According to a study published in the journal PLOS Medicine, cycling can help prevent diseases like heart attacks, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, which stem from living a sedentary lifestyle. If practised regularly, cycling can even help you manage or control pre-existing lifestyle diseases as well.
5 top-rated exercise bikes for home to stay active
If low-impact, joint-friendly workouts are your goal, HT Shop Now has shortlisted 5 exercise bikes for home based on user ratings, reviews, and overall feedback. Ideal for beginners or those returning to fitness, they support knee-friendly cardio, help maintain stamina, and make home workouts convenient and effective.
The Sparnod SAB-05 Air Bike Exercise Cycle is perfect for a full-body, low-impact workout at home. Its dual-action arms and legs provide simultaneous upper and lower body engagement, while adjustable resistance allows beginners and advanced users to tailor the intensity. Ideal for anyone looking to boost stamina, burn calories, or rehabilitate joints safely, the back support provides added comfort for longer sessions.
The PowerMax Fitness BU‑201 Dual Action Air Bike stands out with its adjustable cushioned seat and moving handles, making it comfortable and versatile for users of different heights. The dual action design engages both upper and lower body for a more effective workout. Non‑slip pedals ensure secure footing, while adjustable resistance lets you tailor intensity. Ideal for home workouts, it supports up to 120 kg and enhances overall cardiovascular fitness.
Looking for an exercise bike that keeps you motivated? The Lifelong Fit Pro Spin Fitness Bike features a clear LED display, a smooth 7 kg flywheel, and adjustable resistance, allowing for fully customizable cardio workouts. Its cushioned, adjustable seat and non-slip pedals ensure comfort and stability, while supporting up to 120 kg. Perfect for home workouts, it helps track progress, burn calories, and stay consistent with daily fitness goals.
Looking for a cardio machine that’s easy on your joints? The Reach AB 110 Upright Air Bike provides a smooth, low-impact workout with adjustable resistance and both moving and stationary handles, offering varied exercise options. Its cushioned seat adds comfort for longer sessions, and the design minimises knee and joint strain. Ideal for home gym cardio, it supports up to 110 kg and helps you stay active safely.
Many users love the Cardio Max JSB HF175 Exercise Cycle for its ease of use and versatility in home workouts. The dual-action design allows you to work both your upper and lower body, while adjustable height and resistance make it suitable for all fitness levels. Easy DIY installation means you can start exercising quickly. Its sturdy build and smooth motion help users enjoy low-impact cardio sessions without straining their joints.
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₹20,000 for effective home workouts”>Looking for a budget-friendly treadmill? Explore Amazon’s top-rated picks under ₹20,000 for effective home workouts
Home fitness made simple with Amazon’s highest-rated kettlebell options to support daily full-body workouts
- Why choose an exercise bike for home workouts?
They offer low-impact cardio, easy accessibility, and consistent daily activity without the need for a gym.
- Can exercise bikes help with weight management?
Yes. Regular cycling helps burn calories, boost metabolism, and support a healthy weight.
- Are these bikes suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Adjustable resistance and seats make them beginner-friendly and customizable.
- Do exercise bikes strain joints?
No. Cycling is a low-impact activity that protects knees and joints while providing an effective workout.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times 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, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness Program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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Back to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa
VICENZA, Italy — For the handlers of the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment, readiness isn’t just about the mission, it’s about maintaining the total health of their most trusted partners. Through the U.S. Army’s new Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program, the Vicenza-based detachment is redefining what it means to be mission ready, one paw at a time.
The Army established the K9H2F program under Army Directive 2025-16 to enhance the wellness, performance and quality of life of MWDs, Aug. 21, 2025. The directive mandates all Army MWD units to implement comprehensive health and welfare standards, aligning with Department of War and Army veterinary care policies.
Modeled after the Soldier Holistic Health and Fitness system, K9H2F takes a science-based, whole-dog approach addressing physical fitness, nutrition, behavioral health and recovery. For the 525th MWD team, that means every dog receives the same level of conditioning and care as any elite military athlete in uniform.
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Payton R. May, kennel noncommissioned officer in charge, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, conduct a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Payton R. May, kennel noncommissioned officer in charge, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, conduct a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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“Our dogs are tactical athletes,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Payton R. May, kennel noncommissioned officer in charge assigned to 525th MWD Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade. “They train hard, they work hard and they deserve the same attention to fitness, nutrition and injury prevention that we give our Soldiers. The H2F program helps us keep them in top condition so they can perform safely and effectively in any environment.”
A key component of the directive, the Partner and Wellness program, ensures handlers and their assigned MWDs relocate together during permanent changes of station, strengthening continuity and the human-K9 bond.
U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, incorporate Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program stretching after completing an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The K9H2F program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, incorporate Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program stretching after completing an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The K9H2F program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, incorporate Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program stretching after completing an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The K9H2F program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk)
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“When I PCS’d [permanently changed duty stations] to Italy, being able to bring my dog with me made a huge difference,” said U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, a patrol explosive detector dog handler assigned to the 525th MWD Detachment. “It helps us maintain that trust and teamwork that can’t be replaced. The PAW program makes sure that bond doesn’t get broken.”
Each MWD now follows structured conditioning routines designed to build strength, endurance and agility while reducing the risk of injury. Specialized diets, recovery protocols and enrichment activities round out their regimen, ensuring each dog remains physically capable and mentally resilient.
U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Soyer, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk)
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Soyer, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Destiny Baker)
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Soyer, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Destiny Baker)
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According to U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Viridiana Lavalle, Military Working Dog program manager at Headquarters, Department of the Army, the initiative marks a major step forward in modern K9 care.
“Proactive and data-driven K9 care is essential for optimizing the performance and longevity of MWDs, directly impacting mission readiness and effectiveness,” Lavalle said. “By leveraging advanced analytics to monitor health metrics, exercise regimens and behavioral patterns, handlers can implement tailored care strategies that enhance the holistic health of MWDs.”
This strategic approach not only improves the physical capabilities of these vital assets but also supports K9 mental resilience, ensuring they are fully prepared for the demands of their critical roles.
Soyer, a military working dog assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, completes a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk)
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Soyer, a military working dog assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, completes a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Destiny Baker)
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“Ultimately, investing in comprehensive K9 care through data-driven insights enhances operational effectiveness, contributing to mission success and the overall safety of military personnel,” Lavalle said.
The holistic approach extends beyond the kennel. Handlers train alongside veterinary and behavioral specialists to better understand each dog’s unique needs, improving communication and enhancing mission effectiveness.
“The bond between handler and dog is everything,” May said. “When you have that trust, that connection, the dog performs with confidence. The H2F program helps us strengthen that bond through better training, stress management and recovery practices.”
From explosives and narcotics detection to patrol duties across Europe and Africa, the 525th’s military working dogs play a vital role in safeguarding Soldiers and installations. The K9H2F program ensures those capabilities remain sharp on every mission, in every environment.
U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, a patrol drug detector dog handler assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, runs as Beza, a military working dog, conducts a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, conduct a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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“Investing in our dogs’ health is investing in readiness,” said U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, a patrol narcotics detector dog handler with the 525th MWD Detachment. “They’re not just assets, they’re teammates. When they’re healthy, confident and capable, our entire formation is stronger.”
Under the directive, the U.S. Army provost marshal general oversees program criteria and compliance, while the surgeon general of the U.S. Army coordinates implementation guidance. Commanders are required to meet new
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About SETAF-AF
U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.
Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDSkennel and enrichment standards within 90 days, and the policy will be incorporated into Army Regulation 190–12 within two years.
For the Soldiers and K9s of the 525th MWD Detachment, holistic fitness isn’t just a program, it’s a commitment to excellence that keeps both handlers and their four-legged partners ready for any mission.
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