This At-Home Testosterone Check Is Becoming a Must-Have for Men Over 30
If you are a man over 30, testosterone becomes a major part of your overall health and performance. This hormone influences how much energy you have, how easy it is to build muscle, how fast you recover after exercise, and even how motivated you feel throughout the day. Once men reach their thirties, it is common to notice changes, even if they are subtle. Because of this, one of the fastest rising trends in men’s wellness is at-home testosterone testing.
More men want simple, private, and fast ways to understand what is happening inside their bodies. At-home testosterone checks are becoming essential gear for anyone who wants to optimise training, improve energy, or take control of long term health without going through the hassle of clinic visits.
Why Testosterone Matters More Than Ever for Men Over 30
Testosterone naturally peaks in your twenties and slowly decreases as you age. Although this decline is normal, even slight drops can affect how you feel day to day. Some men begin noticing changes in strength, drive, or recovery without realising hormones could be involved. Others may simply feel different without knowing why.
Because these changes can impact everything from mood to physical performance, more men are choosing to monitor their testosterone levels early. Understanding your levels gives you clarity, which can help you make better decisions about sleep, stress, training, and lifestyle.
As a result, many men now check their testosterone levels with fast and accessible at-home services like One Day Tests. It allows them to view their hormone levels privately, track changes over time, and get clear digital results without scheduling appointments or visiting clinics.
Signs Your Testosterone Might Be Dropping
Most men associate testosterone with muscle or strength, but it influences much more than that. Some of the early indicators of lower testosterone are easy to overlook. These may include:
- Feeling tired throughout the day, even after a full night of sleep
- Reduced strength or difficulty building muscle
- Slower recovery after workouts
- Low mood or reduced motivation
- Increase in body fat or softening of physique
- Difficulty staying focused
- Reduced drive for exercise or physical activity
These signs do not automatically mean testosterone is low, but they can be early clues that make testing worthwhile. Many men now view testing as a way to get a clear baseline so they can make informed adjustments.
The Rise of At-Home Testosterone Testing Kits
At-home wellness tools have exploded in popularity, and testosterone tests are among the most in-demand. This trend matches the shift in how men take care of themselves. Men now monitor their sleep, track their steps, measure calories, and analyse stress through their watches and apps. Adding a hormone test to that list feels like a natural next step.
A major reason for this growth is convenience. You can test your testosterone at home at a time that suits you. There is no travel, no waiting room, and no discomfort. The process is fast and simple, which makes it more appealing than traditional clinic testing. For many men, privacy is also a big advantage. You control when you take the sample and where you view the results.
At-home testing is also gaining traction in fitness and performance spaces. Coaches, personal trainers, and athletes are increasingly encouraging men to check their hormone levels as part of building long term progress.
How Modern At-Home Testosterone Tests Work
Using an at-home testosterone kit is easier than most people expect. The process normally includes:
- Ordering the test from an online provider
- Using a simple finger prick to collect a small blood sample
- Sealing the sample and sending it to a certified laboratory
- Receiving a digital report once the analysis is complete
Because a lab performs the analysis, the results are just as accurate as traditional clinic testing. The difference is that you control the timing and you do not have to schedule appointments.
Many tests also provide extra insight into related health markers. Understanding these trends helps men develop a clearer picture of what is supporting or hindering their performance.
Why Men Are Choosing At-Home Testing Over Traditional Clinics
Convenience is the biggest reason men prefer at-home testing. Whether you work long hours, train often, or simply prefer a straightforward process, an at-home kit fits into your schedule easily. You take the sample when it works for you and send it off the same day.
Speed is another benefit. Traditional clinic testing may take longer from start to finish. At-home kits typically deliver digital results quickly, which helps you take action sooner if needed.
Privacy also plays a major role. Men appreciate being able to test their hormone levels discreetly. There is no waiting room and no need to explain why you want the test.
Finally, at-home testing aligns with the trend of men taking control of their health through data. Tracking testosterone becomes part of the same routine that includes monitoring sleep, workouts, steps, calories, and recovery.
Where At-Home Testing Fits Into Your Fitness and Lifestyle Routine
Understanding your testosterone levels can provide valuable insight into your training and lifestyle. For example, if you have been struggling with recovery or strength progression, testing your levels can help identify whether hormones are playing a role. Likewise, if you find yourself feeling less motivated or more fatigued than usual, hormone changes might be involved.
Knowing your testosterone levels can also help you optimise your diet, training program, and sleep routine. Many men begin to see patterns, such as feeling better when they improve sleep quality or reduce stress. Tracking these trends creates a clearer connection between lifestyle and performance.
At-home testing is also a useful tool for men focused on long term health. Instead of waiting for symptoms to become more noticeable, men can identify changes early and take proactive steps.
What To Do Once You Get Your Testosterone Results
When your results arrive, the most important thing is understanding the context. Testosterone levels vary based on age, lifestyle, training intensity, stress, sleep, and many other factors. A single number on its own does not tell the whole story. What matters more is how your levels compare to expected ranges and whether they are trending up or down.
If your levels are within a healthy range, you can continue fine tuning your routine. If they are lower than expected, you may consider adjusting your habits, improving recovery strategies, or speaking with a clinician for more guidance.
Some men test again after a few months to see how their lifestyle changes have affected their levels. This creates a personal health dashboard that becomes more accurate over time.
Why Testosterone Testing Is Becoming Essential Gear for Men
At-home testosterone tests are quickly becoming part of the modern man’s wellness toolkit. They offer clarity, control, and insight. For men who value performance, confidence, and long term health, testing provides a practical way to monitor what is happening inside the body.
Just like fitness trackers and smart gadgets have changed how men approach workouts, testosterone testing is changing how men approach their health. It is simple, fast, and gives you information you can act on. Whether you train regularly, manage a busy lifestyle, or just want to stay ahead of potential changes, an at-home testosterone test is a powerful tool for staying informed.
BiirdFlex Lumina Relieves Body Strain & Improves Posture
A neck strain can be debilitating, especially when left untreated for too long and it affects other parts of the body. Handheld percussion massagers help aleviate the pain and with recovery. But some are just too bulky and heavy to hold on your own. BiirdFlex Lumina, on the other hand, offers a relaxing and comfortable hands-free experience.
It features a four-sided ergonomic structure that adapts to your body’s natural curves for multi-anglle personalized traction. This design allows the device to target different body areas, not just the neck, but also the knees, wrists, elbows, ankles, and more.
BiirdFlex Lumina’s Natural Gravity Stretch uses your body’s own weight to gently decompress and realign the neck and spine. This traction effortlessly aids relieve the built-up pressure, improve posture, and restore the body’s flexibility.
Just lie back and let gravity help ease the device into massaging your neck. It gently stretches and relaxes tense muscles on the neck to ease pressure on the cervical spine. The device targets the suboccipital trigger points, or the muscles at the base of your skull that often cause tension headaches and neck stiffness.
It gently relaxes these points to help improve circulation, reduce tightness, and relieve pressure. BiirdFlex Lumina also naturally aligns the neck and spine to help improve posture through gentle traction and muscle relaxation.
This relief device offers six modes and 16 intensity levels for a customizable spa-like experience. It is easy to control via intuitive buttons on the side, remote control, or smart voice prompts. It is skin friendly, attachable to chairs, car seats, or recliners via a detachable strap, has a smart timer, and runs on a rechargeable battttery. A full three-hour charge lasts up to 120 minutes of continuous use.
Images courtesy of Biirdflex
Elevate Your Gym With the Dior x TechnoGym “Dior Vibe” Line
Luxury brand Dior collaborates with TechnoGym for a limited-edition range of fitness products geared to motivate and make people happy. Calling it the “Dior Vibe,” the line consists of a treadmill, a multifunctional weight bench, and a wellness ball.
If you’ve got money to burn, then you may want to add the line to your home gym. It comes with a “stylish, compact, and quiet” treadmill that comes with state-of-the-art electronic features from TechnoGym, one of the world’s leading providers of high-end sports equipment and digital technologies. You can easily connect it to your tablet for an interactive workout.
Meanwhile, the weight bench comes with accessories for muscle and strength building including dumbbells in various weights and resistance bands. It also has knuckles that are compatible with over 200 exercises on the app. Then the Technogym Ball is more than just a wellness ball as it looks comfy enough to sit on.
The “Dior Vibe” line would not be complete without the Italian brand’s signature white design centered around the Dior star. It has the five horizontal blue stripes motif and the iconic “Christian Dior” logo.
“This shared goal of excellence gives life to a limited series of innovative Technogym products interpreted with the Maison Dior’s unique allure. Created to inspire the concept of wellness with new generations, it also offers people the opportunity to live a unique and irresistible experience,” Nerio Alessandri, Founder of Technogym and Wellness Designer said of the upcoming line available exclusively in Dior boutiques worldwide starting January 2022.
The “Dior Vibe” line certainly adds a touch of luxury to any home gym setup. It makes any couch potato get up and start working up a sweat.
Beat the Hangover With the ZBiotics Probiotic Drink
Nobody likes the hangover or the groggy feeling after a night or so of hard alcohol drinking. Practice, science, and tradition can dictate how you can combat these aftereffects. But what you really need is to calm the acetaldehyde, the toxic byproduct of alcohol. You can do so with a special probiotic drink called the ZBiotics.
After three years of scientific research, you get the first product in the world that can successfully break down acetaldehyde. It is a genetically engineered probiotic that helps you feel and do your best after drinking beer, wine, whiskey, and other alcoholic drinks. It works best taken before consuming any alcohol to prepare your gut from producing the same enzymes that break down acetaldehyde. Simply put, this drink replicates your liver’s natural process where it matters most: your gut.
Fair warning though, the ZBiotics Probiotics is not a miracle drink that gets rid of or reduces intoxication. You should still be a responsible drinker and consume only want you can. The tendency is, you will still feel the hangover if you have too much to drink. Take it from the Spice Girls who said that “too much of something is bad enough.” if
It is still advisable to drink lots of H20 as alcohol can dehydrate you. Then, of course, get plenty of sleep and fill up your stomach before and after drinking. These help you replenish those good bacteria in the gut that were otherwise lost to the alcohol.
The ZBiotics Probiotics comes in 3, 6, and 12 packs in a special box perfect for on-the-go carry so you’re prep for a night of drinking with friends or colleagues.
Images courtesy of ZBiotics
The Hyperice X Is the Recovery Tech You Need For That Knee Pain
Forget the cords, the ice, the tub, the basin, and all other prep needed to get your joints back in tip-top shape after a game. The Hyperice X does away with all these with a simple push of a button. It provides electric contrast therapy treatment on-demand, anywhere and anytime.
This wearable tech helps you tackle inflammation and pain with programmable temperatures. It uses the power of hot and cold therapy to soothe those tired muscles or joints on your knees without the need for ice or wires to plug in the massager. Instead, it is digitally connected via the Hyperice App so you can start the therapy in seconds.
The Hyperice X is customizable or programmable according to your choice of treatment. You can go for cold therapy for as long as you want or turn up the heat to reduce aches and tension on your knees. You can use both in one setting too. It provides long-lasting, sustained relief without any change in temperature.
Thus, it is unlike traditional heating pads and icing that could go tepid in seconds. Instead, it provides hot or cold therapy in seconds. This recovery tech even works even while you’re on the go so the treatment never stops until you decide so. It comes in three comfortable straps for the ideal fit. This way you can adjust the size and hold it in place even as you move.
Meanwhile, a guiding white ring helps you place the device properly on your knee cap. Not to forget, the Hyperice X has an adaptive fit too. So you can still get back on the game with it on for long-lasting or on-the-go relief.
Images courtesy of Hyperice
Fitbit Adds Even More Upgrades To The Charge 5 To Encouarge Overall Wellness
With Apple still leading the pack and Samsung revisiting Google’s Wear OS, the smartwatch market shaking up this 2021. Meanwhile, Fitbit trudges along and remains the go-to option for those who lead an active lifestyle. If you’re eager to check out why, the Charge 5 seems like a good start.
If it’s a full-size wearable they’re talking about, the brand is also catering to this category. As for the Charge 5, it’s part of Fitbit’s lineup of fitness trackers. Most devices that are sold as such, normally pack basic functionalities that tell users their step count, heart rate, sleep quality, and more.
The Charge 5 may look like an entry-level offering, but its spec sheet says otherwise. These days, amid the ongoing COViD-19 pandemic, blood oxygen is crucial. Moreover, the manufacture is going even further by enabling ECG functionality. This gives wearers a readout of their heart health.
Receive alerts when your heart rate falls below or goes beyond thresholds. Users can check the data Alongside other metrics to get an overview of their overall wellness. Fitbit throws in a 6-month Premium membership for the most comprehensive fitness experience.
For people who prefer outdoor workouts, the built-in GPS on the Charge 5 provides real-time pace and distance. No need to rely on your smartphone for location tracking on your runs, hikes, or rides. Furthermore, never miss your notifications such as emails, text, calendar, calls, and more.
The always-on AMOLED display remains legible even under bright sunlight. The body is crafted out of stainless steel for durability and comes with interchangeable straps. A full charge should last up to seven days. Finally, the Fitbit Charge 5 is available in three colors: Lunar White/Gold, Steel Blue/Platinum, and Black/Graphite.
Images courtesy of Fitbit
Erazor: A Sleek Electric Shaver With Ceramic Blades And A 60-Day Battery Life
Personal grooming is as important as the outfit we wear. As such, always keep your basic hygiene practices in check. These include bathing, brushing your teeth, getting a haircut, and shaving your facial hair. Unless you’re intentionally growing out your moustache, beard, or both, a safety razor should be in your kit. If you prefer convenience, how about the Erazor?
Electric shavers are nothing new, but it’s the innovation that sets each one apart. Although others would argue that these cannot match what a straight razor or even a safety razor can do, there are advantages. You can get the job done faster, shave anywhere, and avoid nicks from the blades.
This fully-funded crowdfunding project addresses a common issue with regular electric shavers. Over time, the metal on the blades and foil will need replacement. Among the two, it’s usually the latter that gets swapped out regularly. What the Erazor brings to the table is the use of ceramic blades.
With proper care and use, these will stay as sharp as the day you got them. Moreover, the material does not rust and is resistant to other types of corrosion. It sits under a 0.05-mm thin stainless steel mesh so you get the closest shave every time.
The Erazor is also IPX7 waterproof so you can use it on wet skin. The cylindrical ABS/aluminum body gives you an ergonomic grip with each use. It measures 2.2” x 1.5” and weighs only 68 grams, which is as portable as you can get. Its 800-mAh battery fully charges in two hours and lasts up to 60 days.
Images courtesy of Erazor
Three Spirit The Collection: Tasty Alcohol-Free Beverages To Give Your Liver A Break
People have their own ways to relax after a hard day and studies encourage us to do so. Some hop online to play games with their buddies. Others choose to work out at the gym or at home. Then there are those who prefer to knock back a few drinks to get that buzz. If alcohol is not your thing, The Collection from Three Spirit might help you loosen up.
A few beers or maybe a glass or two of your favorite spirits is not bad, but sometimes things can get out of control. Going beyond your limit usually leads to a bad hangover the next day, which is very unpleasant situation for all those involved. Therefore, The Collection might help you kick the habit the natural way.
The bundle features a trio of signature blends from Three Spirit. They call it botanical alchemy as it says on the bottle’s label. You can’t really say for sure if there’s any magic in the mix but we’ll take their word for it for now. The Collection includes the Nightcap, Livener, and Social Elixir.
Now your pals who prefer not to imbibe won’t feel left out. Serve it straight or as a mixer in a virgin cocktail and enjoy. As the brand points out, each beverage formulation has specific benefits. For the Livener, it packs ingredients to invigorate.
Next is the Social Elixir, which includes active ingredients to elevate your mood. Finally, the Nightcap helps you unwind and get ready to hit the sack. There’s a brew for everyone with the Three Spirit The Collection. So give your liver a break and give your taste buds a kick with exotic flavors.
Images courtesy of Three Spirit
Get Fun and Engaging Workouts With The LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer
The COVID-19 pandemic has people either turning to food to relieve anxiety or pounding the floor to get fit and healthy. If you fall on the latter then you might want to add the LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer to your home gym.
This exercise machine gives you a total body workout via punching and cycling. That’s a combo of cardio and strength training to help you trim fat, build lean muscles, and improve endurance. It even has an accompanying mobile app where you can see set up fun and engaging workout sessions, view stats, and more.
On the outside, the LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer may look menacing. But it is easy to operate and engaging too. It has an interactive screen where you choose your workouts and see readouts for distance, calories, speed, and accuracy. It even comes with a chest strap to track heart rate and beats per minute. Likewise, the punch pad makes boxing entertaining with flashing color targets that let you score points for every target met.
This gym equipment also caters to your comfort while you work out. As such, the exercise bike has an adjustable punch pad and seat, where you can adjust the fore and aft position of the seat. The gloves also leave your thumbs free to access your phone or water bottle, while toe cages and adjustable straps keep your feet secured on the pedals.
The LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer has a max weight capacity of 300lbs. and comes with two front-mounted wheels for easy transport. It’s in a robust, durable all-steel construction with a solid base to keep you balanced for whatever move you make on the bike or on the punching mat.
Images courtesy of LifeSpan Fitness
The Nest Brush Is A Self-Dispensing UV-C Toothbrush
Body grooming and oral health care are both parts of good hygiene and whether we like it or not, it is important to also take care of our pearly whites to avoid certain diseases. But when it can be time-consuming and worse, a great contributor to plastic wastes. What with the toothpaste tube and disposed toothbrushes ending up in landfills. Thankfully, the Nest Brush solves that problem.
This ingenious oral care kit consists of several items that make brushing not just fun but also sustainable. It has a minimalistic silicon toothbrush that operates manually but has the power of an electric one. The handle has a built-in toothpaste refillable container, which means no more packing those tubes during travels. It can store 30 ml of paste which is good for a month of brushing.
A press of the button on the handle pushes out a sufficient amount of toothpaste through internal channels into the silicon brush head. The silicone valve prevents the paste from drying and leaking while its ergonomic design makes it easy to clean the container from the inside.
Moreover, the Nest Brush comes with replaceable heads and a magnetic brush stand equipped with a UV sterilizer. It only takes less than a minute to sterilize the toothbrush using two powerful UV-C LED lights. The head of the stand also protects your toothbrush from dirty water splashes.
Of course, when it comes to travel, this one also has a travel case with a UV sterilizer. Simply put the brush inside and the sterilizing process starts immediately. It is battery controlled which is good for two months. Best of all, the Nest Brush uses soft food-grade hypoallergenic silicone bristles to make brushing painless.
Images courtesy of Nest Oral Care
The DrySee Waterproof Bandage Has A Wetness Indicator
When it comes to wound care, bandages help prevent re-infection and helps speed up the healing process. But it can be a hassle to change them often in a day especially when it gets splashed or even slightly wet with sweat. The tendency is, they start to slip off, at times without you knowing. This then leaves your wound vulnerable to dirt, germs, and other contaminants. But with DrySee Waterproof Bandage, worrying about wet plasters becomes an afterthought.
This ingenious first aid kit uses patented Liquid Intrusion technology to prevent any form of liquid or moisture from entering your wound. It provides a secure, waterproof covering, especially for low exudate wounds. This is then ideal for post-surgery in which doctors often tell their patients to avoid bathing to keep the operated area dry.
But with the DrySee Waterproof Bandage, said patients can take a shower without worrying about the wound. It seals off the water using a clear, flexible, non-latex adhesive and non-stick absorbent pad. The pad is made with nonwoven gauze with 100 percent USP cotton cleaned sans the use of chlorine.
However, if ever moisture or water does seep in, then you would know when this happens. That’s because the gauze comes equipped with a light indicator that alerts of you this situation. The barrier around the perimeter turns from light blue to dark blue if wet. It also changes color when water passes through the second adhesive ring and reaches the site of the wound.
The internal gauze pad also changes color when the wound seeps fluid. Then you would know it’s time for a bandage change. But all in all, the DrySee Waterproof Bandage lessens the number of times you change plasters in a day as it can last up to three days. Simply stash it in your bag as part of your survival kit.
Images courtesy of DrySee
The IKEA Starkvind Air Purifier Is An Elegant Addition to Any Room Setup
Air purifiers have taken on new meaning since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, with homes and establishments always in the market for the most sustainable and reliable option. But seldom you can find one that comes in an esthetically pleasing design, such as the IKEA Starkvind Air Purifier.
The Swedish brand takes a humble bedside table to great heights by incorporating digital upgrades. An entry into its IKEA Home smart category, this indoor device is ideal for rooms up to 215 square feet. It can be used on its own but when connected to the TRÅDFRI gateway, it turns into a wireless home cleaning device. You can control and schedule air cleaning via the IKEA Home smart app.
Moreover, the IKEA Starkvind Air Purifier gives you five different fan speeds and an auto-mode function. In auto, the fan speed adjusts accordingly to the amount of PM2.5 in the air. It also has a built-in quality sensor that tells you the current indoor air quality through the app.
This house humidifier also has a 3-filter system. The pre-filter captures big particles such as hair and dust. It also filters out 99.5% of smaller airborne particles such as pollens and other allergens. Then it also has gas cleaning which absorbs various gaseous pollutants, including formaldehyde, smoke from cigarettes or cooking, and other VOCs.
The IKEA Starkvind Air Purifier is available in two versions: as a stand-alone model or as a bedside table model. It will be available in the market starting October 2021 in IKEA retail channels.
Images courtesy of IKEA
Jab & Slab: Hawke’s Brewing Co. urges folks to get vaccinated in exchange for free beer
Even with years of research and results showing that vaccines are effective against certain diseases, many are still hesitant. Governments and their healthcare officials are having a hard time convincing folks about getting their shots for COVID-19. Meanwhile, Hawke’s Brewing Co. is encouraging our friend Down Under with it Jab & Slab campaign.
Kudos to the brewer for coming up with a clever tactic for inoculation against the 2019 novel conronavirus. As the pandemic shows no signs of a slowdown anytime soon, medical professionals urge people not to fear the vaccine. Perhaps a box of Hawke’s Brewing Co. beer is the push everybody needs.
This cool initiative is unfortunately exclusive to residents of Greater Sydney. To be eligible for the Jab & Slab giveaway, you need to get your first COVID-10 vaccine dose and take a photo of the band-aid stamped are of the arm. Upload it on Instagram and tag @hawkesbrewingco with a #jabandslab hashtag.
Founders of the brewery based in Marrickville, New South Wales, David Gibson and Nathan Lennon count late Prime Minister Bob Hawke was one of their backers. “We should have been breaking vaccination records months ago. But apparently it wasn’t a race and now half the country has been impacted by lockdown again,” according to Gibson.
Perhaps other breweries in the United States would catch on and offer something similar to the Jab & Slab. COVID-19 cases are once again on the rise as people continue to reject vaccinations despite the benefits it brings to the table. Hawke’s Brewing Co. notes that only 250 slots are available.
Images courtesy of Hawke’s Brewing Co.
Get The Most Out Of Your Resistance Bands With The TRX Bandit
This pandemic certainly has people filling up their time with a new hobby or staying fit and healthy while indoors. While there is a great selection of home gym equipment in the market, there are those who’d rather stick to the basics or simple ones. Those who cannot afford the whole gym setup can turn to resistance bands for a great workout too. Pair them with the TRX Bandit and you’re off to a smooth routine without your sweaty palms disrupting your groove.
What it does is basically slip around the resistance bands as a protective sheath. They are removable handles that snap in place to prevent bands from getting slippery because of moist grips. They provide a comfortable, secure grip, thus giving you increased control over strength bands and aim for effective workouts. This way you can focus on form during your exercises and not get distracted by the uncomfortable grip.
The TRX Bandit is compact and slips easily into any gym bag so you can bring them to trips to the gym or anywhere else. It is also comfortable in the hands with its ergonomic design and ThermoPlastic Rubber construction. They are universally designed so they can fit into any resistance band. Even when attached, you can simply slide them over during handle-free routines.
This portable, lightweight fitness solution comes in two handles: two blue TRX Strenght Bands (5 – 15 lbs.) and two green TRX Strength Bands (15 – 30 lbs.). In a nutshell, the TRX Bandit turns any resistance bands into a full-body workout and stretching machine.
Images courtesy of TRX
Achieve Clarity, Balance, and Relief With DankeSuper
CBD products like the tinctures from DankeSuper are one of the fastest and most affordable ways to improve your daily life. Three flavor profiles provide three distinct experiences. Balance is the 40mg unflavored option that…
The post Achieve Clarity, Balance, and Relief With DankeSuper first appeared on Cool Material.
Basic Running Gear That Improves Performance
Whether you are an expert at running or have just taken up the sport, having the right running gear can make a difference when it comes to your comfort, motivation levels, and how you perform in your daily run. Let’s look at some basic running gear that improves performance.
1) Running shoes
As you may expect, the kind of shoes you wear significantly impact your performance levels. Casual runners may be tempted to go for low-cost shoes and end up changing them every two-three months. Not only does this have a major impact on your performance, but you may also end up spending more in the long term.
There are many options for you to consider when selecting a great running shoe, with parameters such as style, comfort, and grip to keep in mind. Spend some extra money and opt for an excellent running shoe that will make your daily run more comfortable and help prevent injuries.
2) Running hats
If you are a serious running enthusiast, you wouldn’t want uncomfortable weather to put you off your daily run. But, it is crucial to protect yourself if you run in hot weather as high amounts of sweat may cause dehydration. Dehydration may lead to heat cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
All of which can be pretty serious without immediate attention and care. In such a scenario, running hats are a must-have accessory in summers. Running hats are lightweight, made up of moisture-wicking fabric and breathable side panels which help you stay cool in the heat.
3) Running Socks
Good running socks are another essential part of your running gear, and there are a few things to keep in mind while choosing running socks. You should get seamless running socks that can wick away sweat and moisture from your feet. These help in reducing friction while running and help prevent blister formation. You should be on the lookout for socks that have padding in specific areas to help the cushioning effect of your running shoes.
4) Running shorts
The chances are that you’ll be doing most of your runs in warm weather unless you live somewhere with extremely long winters. Hence it would be best to have several pairs of running shorts to keep you comfortable during your daily runs.
Running shorts are generally designed to meet specific running needs and help in improving your performance. For example, good running shorts should be lightweight, use fabrics that let your skin breathe, and have many pockets to keep your knickknacks handy.
5) Running tops
Running tops make a considerable difference when it comes to your performance levels. It is not a good idea to run in ordinary cotton tops that absorb rain or sweat. Loose cotton tops may chafe you under your arms and cause you discomfort during your runs. Good performance running tops allow air to circulate throughout the fabric and help wick away the sweat that will enable you to stay cooler.
A good running top should not be figure-hugging or flap around while you run wearing them. If you prefer running in a long sleeve running top, you need to get one that comes with cuffed sleeves. If a long sleeve running top doesn’t have cuffs, the sleeves may ride up and down your arms while running, which can irritate and distract you from your run.
In Summary
Buying some specialist running gear doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll break the bank in doing so. Good quality running gear lasts longer, is a good investment, and can help enhance your performance. With running gear appropriate for different weather conditions, you will be all geared up to enjoy your running sessions that much more.
Athletic Shoulder Replacement Surgery and Return to Sport
The first thing an athlete with a serious shoulder injury wants to know is “how long is recovery from shoulder replacement surgery going to take?” In the past, doctors often relied on generalized timelines to determine when to give an athlete the green light to return to sport. But today’s technological tools have changed all that. We now have the methods and the means to precisely measure the degree of healing, to ensure that individual athletes are not sent back to play before they’re ready.
Sports with High Incidence of Shoulder Injuries
Premature return to sport after shoulder surgery often leads to re-injury that can be career-ending for a competitive athlete. Athletes who are the most prone to shoulder injuries include:
- Swimmers
- Baseball players
- Volleyball players
- Golfers
- Tennis players
- Soccer players
- American football players
Because athletes, in general, have a relatively small window of time to reach their competitive peak and play at the top of their game, post-surgery rehabilitation is crucial, and time is of the essence.
Factors Affecting Successful Return to Sport after Shoulder Surgery
Every athlete is unique, and a successful shoulder rehab program must be personalized and sport-specific. In addition, rehabilitation after injury and surgery requires neuromotor training that restores optimal communication between the brain and muscles.
Factors that influence the speed and success of return to sport include:
- The athlete’s adherence to rehab training protocols
- The skill and experience of the sports rehab team
- Access to technological tools for measuring progress
- Availability of advanced equipment for training and feedback
- Personalized one-on-one training designed specifically for the athlete
- The athlete’s level of motivation
It is critical to find a sports medicine physical therapist with experience in athletic shoulder injuries. Generalized cookie-cutter training protocols based on timelines that are not tailored to the individual athlete are insufficient to prepare an athlete to return to sport.
Common Types of Athletic Shoulder Surgery
Shoulder surgery can range from minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures to full-blown total shoulder replacement. The most common types of shoulder surgery include:
- Bankart lesion repair. This procedure is done to mend a tear in the anterior glenoid labrum that rims the shoulder socket. Bankart lesions are often the cause of shoulder instability and frequent dislocations.
- Superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) repair. SLAP surgery is done to reattach torn labral tissues at the top of the shoulder socket. Symptoms of SLAP tears are popping sounds or sensations, shoulder pain and reduced arm mobility.
- Rotator cuff repair. Minor rotator cuff tears will self-repair over time, but major ruptures can require surgery to reattach torn tendons to the bone of the upper arm. Rotator cuff ruptures are a common type of overuse injury.
- Complete Shoulder Replacement. Shoulder replacement surgery is sometimes necessary after a serious fracture or in cases of advanced arthritis. In this lengthy procedure, the shoulder ball and socket are replaced with artificial parts.
What Research Says About Shoulder Surgery Recovery Time and Return to Sport
According to recent research, the majority of athletes who play sports on a regular basis were able to return to play after shoulder surgery.
One meta analysis reported the following data for return to various sports after shoulder arthroplasty surgery:
- The mean rate of return to play for all sports studied was 80.7%
- The return rate for golfers was 79.2%
- Swimmers returned at a rate of 75.6%
- Tennis players returned at a rate of 63.5%
- Athletes who underwent reverse shoulder arthroplasty had the lowest overall rate of return to sport at 76.5%
- Other types of arthroplasty had a collective rate of 80.7%
Another systematic review zeroed in on recreational athletes who had reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and reported the following rates of return-to-play:
- The overall rate for all sports was 79.1%
- The rate for golfers was 66.7%
- Swimmers returned at a rate of 74.3%
- Tennis players had a return rate of only 50%
- Of all subjects studied, 71.4% returned to their pre-surgery level of play
- The average time to return to play was 3.4 months
A third review and analysis that also focused on reverse shoulder arthroplasty reported that the mean rate of return to sport ranged between 60% to 93%, with a mean time frame of 5.3 months to return to play.
What to Expect During Shoulder Surgery Recovery
Depending on the severity of your injury and the type of surgery performed, the earliest you can expect to return to play is 4-6 months. Rehabilitation after shoulder surgery requires a combination of rest, sport-specific physical therapy, and a progressive protocol that gradually moves you toward optimal performance.
The rehab process can be broken down into 6 phases:
- Early recovery. In the initial stage of recovery after shoulder surgery, your shoulder will be immobilized with a sling for about a week to give it time to begin the healing process before you begin physical therapy.
- Begin physical therapy. Once your stitches and bandages are removed, you will report to your physical therapist to begin gentle range of motion and low-key strengthening exercises. You may need to continue to wear a sling as a protective measure against unintended movement.
- Resume activities of daily living. About 6-7 weeks in, you may be able to do basic non-sports activities, but your muscles will still be weak and your shoulder will still be vulnerable, so don’t overdo it.
- Build strength, stability and mobility. After about 12 weeks, your therapist will progressively increase your training load to restore muscle strength and optimal joint function. They may introduce some basic sports movements, but you won’t be ready to resume your regular training regimen. This is likely to be the lengthiest phase of shoulder surgery recovery.
- Prepare to return to play. Your therapist will continually test and document your progress, and decide when you’re ready to resume regular training. One commonly used marker is when your repaired shoulder regains about 90% of the strength of your uninjured joint. However, if your sport places greater demands on your dominant arm, attaining 90% strength of your non-dominant arm has less significance. Skills retraining and restoring optimal neuromuscular pathways is a critical component of this phase, prior to returning to play.
- Return-to-sport. Your therapist will work closely with your coach and trainer to determine when you’re fully ready to return to the playing field with minimal risk of re-injury.
Getting the Best Shoulder Surgery Rehab
Thorough and effective rehabilitation is key if you want to return to competition after a total shoulder replacement. There is no set timeline for shoulder replacement recovery for sports — it all depends on the condition and compliance of the individual athlete, the knowledge and expertise of the rehab team, and the attention paid to restoring neuromotor pathways, to optimize performance and prevent re-injury.
Look for a sports physical therapist who has experience working with shoulder injuries and post-surgical rehab. In addition, ask about which advanced treatment methods they use, and which markers they rely on to determine when you are ready to return to play.
You want to find a PT who offers one-on-one personalized rehab and uses quantitative data derived from advanced technologies to measure your progress. If the therapist bases your release solely on old-school timelines, look elsewhere.
This information is provided by New York Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation, the premier clinic for sports injury rehab in NYC. Follow this link to learn more about athletic rehabilitation and return to sport after a shoulder injury in NYC.
Why Men Should Consider Growing a Beard
It wouldn’t be wrong to suggest that beards are like beasts – they seem to have a mind of their own. You will have to learn to tame the beast, but it is going to take some effort. They all grow differently – they grow with luster during the peak of summer in response to seasonal hormonal changes to be at their most gloriously hairy. And, if you have ever stood in front of the mirror and wondered where that decided ginger streak comes from when you are not red-headed, scientists have discovered a partially mutated gene you can inherit to account for those stray red hairs guys find in their beard.
You can carry your beard in more ways you may know. It goes well with most of your outfits, and you can opt for a right type of hat to add charisma to your personality. You can follow the footsteps of different celebrities – you too can be a scruffy Brad Pitt, who rocked the bucket hat trend.
While your beard does make you look he-man hipster, it offers so many health benefits as well. If you’re not already thinking of going that route, the following benefits may help you make a better decision.
Benefits of beard
Protection against Environmental Effects
A beard protects your face from the harsh effects of the environment and climate and serves as a natural shield. The hair on the lower part of your face is proven to block up to 95 percent of hazardous ultraviolet rays from entering your body. A heavy beard works as the natural protector against harsh beams of sun saving your body from its intense effects. Besides blocking UV rays, a healthy beard also seriously inhibits the reach of bugs and insects on your face protecting your chin and neck from mosquito bites.
Helps in Skin Care
Beards seem to play an amazing role in protecting and caring for your facial skin. Due to the regular use of razors, your facial skin is more likely to develop issues ranging from mild to the intense. Using razors regularly damages the epidermis leaving it hard and dark in color. Razor burn encourages the growth of acne and folliculitis. Infection and ingrown hair in the small cuts due to blunt razors are quite normal and painful too. Growing a beard gives your skin relief from constant micro scratches and saves you from facial issues.
Builds an Aura of Confidence and Supremacy
Beard man carries an aura of confidence and supremacy around him. He seems to be wiser and influential and people often assume he’s more powerful and confident. This aura makes him stand out in the crowd and earn respect from the people around them. A beard marks maturity and higher standards than that of the masses. It can transform your personality and make you look extremely stylish, especially when you also opt for those expensive aviator sunglasses.
Keeps your Skin Youthful and Fresh
A beard protects your facial skin from discoloration and from getting hard and thus keeps it young and fresh for a longer time. The beauty and softness of youthful skin do not diminish with growing age if you protect your skin from the harsh impacts of razors. As growing a beard keeps your skin free from cuts and infections, hinders bacterial growth and blocks ultraviolet rays, your skin remains youthful and fresh.
Keeps Your Body Warm
Beards are a natural thermal for your body in cold weather. It keeps your body warm and resists a cold wind. As a natural barrier, a beard maintains skin moisture to prevent facial skin from getting dried and chapped in winter due to direct exposure to cold in harsh climatic conditions. Just don’t forget your windproof jacket, as your beard is only going to offer a small help when the weather outside is freezing cold.
Protection against Allergies and Bacteria
Your beard and mustache work as a natural filter for your body. The air we breathe in is full of hazardous elements and most of them are not visible to the naked eye. A beard blocks the way for many microscopic bacteria and other allergens present in the air and stops them getting inside your nose and mouth. It also protects your body from many viruses and saves it from developing various allergies. But, this calls for regular cleansing and caring of facial hair. You should follow strict hygiene routine regarding your beard and mustache to inhibit the growth of these captured antigens.
Protection and Cure against Throat and Lung Diseases
As a natural filter, your beard gives maximum protection against the development of throat infections. It helps keep the nasal path clean with filtered air, which does not foster the development of infections and diseases.
If worn permanently, mustaches and beards filtered air to keep the upper respiratory tract clean and free from blockages and particulates to protect against some lung diseases. A full beard is a blessing for guys living or working in dusty places or in harsh climatic conditions.
Protects Against Gum Diseases
Gum diseases are caused by a number of factors including a poor hygiene routine and external attacking elements. Beard and mustaches provide protection against the external factors protecting your gums in much the same way as it protects your upper respiratory tract. So, you can easily save your gums from almost all common gum diseases by maintaining an oral hygiene regime and growing a beard.
Saves Time and Money
Growing a beard saves you lots of time and money. An average man spends almost 3350 hours of his life on daily shaving. Imagine what you could do with the time saved just by getting rid of your shaving regime. Your beard also saves you from spending your precious money on buying shaving creams and other shaving accessories.
Maintaining Your Beard the Right Way
You might have gathered that a beard is much more than a cool facial accessory, but to enjoy the amazing benefits, you need to pay attention to maintaining it properly. Here are some tips to consider:
- Find the right style and ensure your beard matches the shape of your face. You will have to grow your beard for a month before you can try some variations and choose your final style that complements your face.
- Ensure you wash your beard regularly. While it is important at every stage of growing a beard, you should never ignore it during the early stages of growth, as this is the time trapped skin cells and even food particles can exacerbate itchiness. Use a specialized cleanser to scrub your beard at least once a week. A tip to remember is to gently pat your beard dry after each wash to avoid ending up with split ends because of an overzealous toweling.
- Be sure to invest in a beard balm. It is basically a shaping and styling aid, but it also serves as a leave-in beard conditioner. It means that a good beard balm not only keeps your facial hair moisturized but also makes your beard look thicker. Put your money on a beard balm that contains natural sealants, such as beeswax, shea butter, and lanolin.
- Trim your beard every few weeks. Your aim should be to snip off any uneven patches as well as loose hair and split ends. While trimming, pay special attention to the natural contour of your face. Use a small beard comb while trimming to know the right hairs to trim.
- Buy a trimmer. You may be thinking you can ditch a trimmer because you’re actually growing a beard, but you will need it to trim your neckline. Trimming bi-weekly is a good idea, but try not to follow your natural jawline when trimming or you might end up making your beard look weird.
Conclusion
The fact of the matter is that growing a beard does more than just making you look masculine and attracting testosterone chasers. Not only does it help protect you from skin-related diseases, but it also improves confidence, increases body temperature, and does so many other wonderful things. But, if you’re considering the idea of dropping the razor, be sure to maintain your beard properly. Investing in the right type of beard balm is certainly a big step in the right direction. Keep it clean and take the right care of it to make yourself a proud owner of a gloriously hairy beard.