The post Why Sleep Quality Matters So Much for Women’s Heart Health After 45 appeared first on .
]]>The analysis drew on health data from about 3,000 women in the long-running Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation, or SWAN. Researchers looked at several measures from the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8, including blood glucose, blood pressure, sleep quality, and nicotine use. While those four factors were the most important in forecasting future cardiovascular disease risk, sleep emerged as the leading predictor of whether participants would experience a cardiovascular event or die from any cause. Women with better sleep quality had lower risk in both areas, according to the report.
Experts cited in the report point to several possible reasons for the link. Poor sleep can contribute to inflammation, which may affect the cells lining the heart’s veins and play a role in cardiovascular disease. Sleep loss may also influence daily habits, including eating patterns, which can over time affect nutrition, blood sugar, diabetes risk, and heart disease. In addition, chronic sleep deprivation is associated with high blood pressure, higher risk of heart attack and stroke, obesity, and poor blood sugar control — all of which are cardiovascular risk factors.
In the study, sleep quality was measured through responses about trouble falling asleep, waking up during the night, and waking too early and struggling to fall back asleep. The findings are especially relevant for menopausal women, who face rising cardiovascular risk as estrogen levels decline and sleep problems become more common during the transition. Since cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women, the research suggests that protecting sleep may be an important part of protecting heart health in midlife and beyond.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Why Sleep Quality Matters So Much for Women’s Heart Health After 45 appeared first on .
]]>The post Can Some People Naturally Build Muscle Faster Than Others? appeared first on .
]]>Genetics can influence body type, metabolism, recovery speed, and how the body responds to exercise and muscle-repair signals. One of the biggest factors is muscle-fiber makeup. Fast-twitch fibers are better suited to powerful, explosive work and may have more potential for growth, while slow-twitch fibers are more endurance-oriented. That means some people may gain size and strength faster than others, even on similar programs. Still, the report notes that training can modestly affect muscle-fiber profile over time, and there is no simple practical way to know an exact fiber breakdown without a muscle biopsy.
Age is another factor. Younger adults, typically those under their mid-30s, often recover more quickly and may build strength and muscle faster because their bodies can handle training stress and repair tissue more efficiently. Older adults can still make strong progress, but they may need more recovery time between sessions. Training experience also matters: beginners often see quicker gains early on because their bodies are adapting to a new stimulus, a phase often called “newbie gains.”
Even with these differences, the report emphasizes that muscle growth is possible for everyone. As one expert put it, genetics help define the range of potential, but training and nutrition determine where someone lands within it. Building muscle is also presented as an important long-term investment, since it supports joint stability, balance, posture, injury protection, and the ability to stay active with age.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Can Some People Naturally Build Muscle Faster Than Others? appeared first on .
]]>The post End-of-Summer Swimsuit Deals Include Up to 65% Off Editor-Approved Picks appeared first on .
]]>The roundup highlights styles across a wide range of needs, including supportive one-pieces, sporty suits, trendy bikinis, tankinis, and more coverage-focused options. The featured selections come from retailers and brands the editors regularly use, including Nordstrom, Amazon, Nike, Quince, and Lands’ End, with prices and markdowns that vary by item.
Among the deals listed are a Lands’ End tankini set marked down 40%, a Shapellx tummy-control one-piece, a UV Skinz long-sleeve swimsuit, and several bikini styles from Zaful, Blooming Jelly, Cupshe, Popvil, and Eomenie. The list also includes Nike separates and Quince swimwear, with some of Quince’s pieces discounted by as much as 65%. The report notes that popular sizes and colors tend to go quickly, so the best options may not stay in stock for long.
Overall, the selection is aimed at shoppers looking for a last-minute vacation suit or anyone who wants to get ahead on next summer’s wardrobe while prices are lower than usual.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post End-of-Summer Swimsuit Deals Include Up to 65% Off Editor-Approved Picks appeared first on .
]]>The post Why Power Walking Is Getting So Much Attention in Fitness Right Now appeared first on .
]]>Experts cited in the piece say that a faster walk increases the demand on the heart and muscles, which can help improve cardiorespiratory fitness, increase oxygen turnover, and burn more calories. It may also support better blood pressure and blood glucose levels. In short, the article describes power walking as a more efficient way to get more out of the same basic workout.
Power walking is not the same as a relaxed stroll. The report says it means walking at your fastest sustainable pace, with effort that goes beyond what feels comfortable. One expert described the target as a seven on a one-to-10 effort scale, with a noticeable rise in heart rate and heavier breathing. Calves may also feel more engaged during the effort.
For beginners, the piece notes that benefits can show up with as little as 10 minutes of power walking. A sample routine includes a five-minute warm-up at an easy pace, 10 minutes of fast walking while actively using the arms and core and, if possible, adding incline, followed by a five-minute cooldown. The article also highlights a broader walking-and-lifestyle-shoe roundup, including options praised for slip-on convenience, cushioning, comfort, and style.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Why Power Walking Is Getting So Much Attention in Fitness Right Now appeared first on .
]]>The post Why This Tinted Sunscreen Has Become a Daily Workout-Ready Essential appeared first on .
]]>The formula is described as lightweight and buildable, starting with a sheer finish that can be layered to medium coverage. It comes in three shades — Clear, Tinted, and Deep — and is said to blend easily, whether applied all over the face or used in combination with bronzer for added warmth. The report also notes that it works well with other makeup products such as blush, bronzer, and setting powder, making it a practical option for people who want a simpler base on busy days.
What sets this sunscreen apart, according to the report, is its compatibility with oily and acne-prone skin. It is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and praised by dermatologists for its lightweight feel. The formula includes niacinamide, lactic acid, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, octinoxate, and zinc oxide, and it is water-resistant for up to two hours. The reviewer says it has not clogged pores or triggered breakouts, even after repeated use, and that it provides enough hydration to work on its own or with moisturizer.
After testing many face sunscreens, the editor calls it one of the most dependable options for everyday wear. The main limitation, according to the report, is that it does not deliver a full-coverage foundation look. Still, for those seeking a sunscreen that can simplify a morning routine while offering broad-spectrum protection and a natural finish, it remains a strong favorite.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Why This Tinted Sunscreen Has Become a Daily Workout-Ready Essential appeared first on .
]]>The post Why Some Gym-Goers Are Turning to Melanotan II for a Faster Tan appeared first on .
]]>Melanotan II was originally developed decades ago by researchers at the University of Arizona as a sunless tanning agent. It works by mimicking alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone and prompting pigment cells to produce more melanin. Early studies also suggested it could affect sexual function in men, but the drug’s clinical development was stopped after a series of side effects emerged, including facial flushing, nausea, and spontaneous erections.
The FDA does not approve melanotan II for human use, and it is not on the list of peptides expected to receive looser restrictions at an upcoming panel review. The report says the peptide remains in a category tied to limited clinical evidence and major safety concerns. Among the more serious adverse events noted by the FDA are melanoma, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, sympathomimetic toxidrome, and prolonged, painful erections.
Beyond those risks, case reports have linked melanotan II to rapid muscle breakdown, reduced blood flow to the kidneys, and sudden mole development. One teenage boy reportedly developed nearly 40 moles on his back after using it, and a dermatologist said that could increase his melanoma risk. At the same time, the connection between melanotan II and skin cancer remains debated, in part because many users also have a history of heavy UV exposure, including tanning bed use.
Even with those concerns, misinformation continues to spread online. According to the report, some social media posts falsely claim the peptide protects against skin cancer, and many users appear unconcerned about the risks. But the peptide does not provide natural protection from UV exposure, and the reported side effects alone may be enough to make some people think twice before trying it.
Source: menshealth.com
The post Why Some Gym-Goers Are Turning to Melanotan II for a Faster Tan appeared first on .
]]>The post Rower or Treadmill? How to Choose the Cardio Machine That Fits Your Goals appeared first on .
]]>On a treadmill, the legs do most of the work, with the quads, hamstrings, glutes, core, and calves helping drive each step. That makes it useful for building power, speed, endurance, and lower-body strength. The tradeoff is impact: running and jogging place more stress on the joints, which can be helpful for bone density but may not be ideal for people with joint concerns or prior lower-body injuries.
The rower, by contrast, is described as a full-body, low-impact option that recruits the upper back and biceps along with the legs, especially the quads and glutes. Because more muscles are involved, it can create a higher energy demand and raise oxygen use even at moderate intensity. According to the report, that can make the rower especially appealing for people looking for efficient calorie burn or a joint-friendly workout, though the machine is more technical and good form matters.
For weight loss, the rower may have an edge in theory because it asks more of the body, but the report emphasizes that consistency matters most. The best machine is the one you will actually use regularly. For strength, the treadmill can help when used with incline, but the rower is said to offer more whole-body resistance. For cardiovascular health, both can be effective, and the real difference comes down to how often and how intentionally they are used.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Rower or Treadmill? How to Choose the Cardio Machine That Fits Your Goals appeared first on .
]]>The post How to Wash Produce Safely During the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak appeared first on .
]]>Because the illness can cause symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and diarrhea, public health officials are urging people to wash and cook fresh produce. The CDC notes that chemical disinfectants are unlikely to kill Cyclospora, while heat and cooking can be effective, according to health authorities.
Health experts say there is no need to buy a special produce wash, since plain running water is considered the best option for reducing many residues and contaminants. A salad spinner or vegetable brush can help with cleanup, but the key step is rinsing fruits and vegetables under clean water. It is also a good idea to wait and wash produce just before eating rather than storing it after rinsing.
Different types of produce need slightly different handling. Leafy greens should be rinsed in a strainer under cold water, then dried with a salad spinner. Berries can be rinsed just before eating, and some people also use a baking soda soak or an apple cider vinegar soak, though the two should not be mixed together. Soft-skinned fruits like peaches, plums, and tomatoes should be washed gently, while root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and beets may need a brush if they are not being peeled. Even thick-skinned items like avocados, bananas, onions, and oranges should be washed before cutting so dirt or residue does not transfer from the skin to the edible part.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post How to Wash Produce Safely During the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak appeared first on .
]]>The post We Tried a $10,000 Cold Plunge to See If the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 Is Worth It appeared first on .
]]>The testing experience was notably simple once the tub was in place. The setup involved connecting the hoses, filling the tub with a garden hose, and letting the system handle the rest. The chiller can both heat and cool the water, and its temperature can be adjusted directly or through an app. The only real drawback on the practical side is size and weight: the tub is large, heavy, and not something that moves easily once filled.
Where the Brainpod 2.0 stands out most is in the plunge itself. The chiller can bring the water down to near-freezing temperatures and keep it there, which removes the usual hassle of adding ice or waiting for the water to cool again. The tub is roomy enough for a full-body soak, and an insulated cover helps hold the temperature between sessions. The interior jets keep the water circulating, which may not appeal to cold-plunge purists, but the tester found the movement energizing. After repeated use, the routine became less of a shock and more of a reliable daily reset.
At $10,990, the Brainpod 2.0 is undeniably expensive, and the report notes that there are cheaper cold plunge options available. Still, for someone who wants cold therapy to feel consistent, convenient, and easy to maintain at home, the system appears to deliver on its promise. The overall verdict is that it is a high-end purchase, but one that makes regular cold plunging feel practical rather than like a novelty.
Source: menshealth.com
The post We Tried a $10,000 Cold Plunge to See If the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 Is Worth It appeared first on .
]]>The post Rob Lea’s 7 Seas, 7 Summits Finish Was Built on Feel, Not Fancy Metrics appeared first on .
]]>Lea’s route to the finish started years earlier, after an ankle reconstruction in 2017 pushed him to look for a new goal beyond rehab. Already an accomplished athlete — a 2012 70.3 triathlon world champion and a former All-American swimmer at UC Davis — he decided to take on the English Channel. That led him to compare major swims and climbs, and in 2019 he added Everest to the English Channel within six months, alongside a cross-country bike ride. He had already climbed Aconcagua in 2009 and Denali in 2010, and the larger challenge eventually grew into the full Seven Summits and Oceans 7 combination.
Despite the scale of the project, Lea says his preparation was not built around highly detailed tracking or rigid plans. Instead, he trained largely by feel, relying on the endurance base he had developed over years in sports. The one area he focused on heavily was cold tolerance, especially for the channel swims. That meant cold baths, swimming in cold water, and even putting on weight before the English Channel. On the mountains, he and his wife did technical training to feel more comfortable in big alpine conditions.
Nutrition was handled with the same practical approach. On land, he aimed to keep enough weight on to handle cold water, while at sea he stuck to a feeding schedule, a calorie target, and liquid nutrition to avoid losing time to currents. Lea also said he was not consumed by the fear of failing, even though he knew failure was always possible. He pointed to difficult moments, including a case of swimming-induced pulmonary edema after the Molokai Channel in 2025, as reminders that anything can happen. Even so, he got back in the water for the final swim, saying the biggest lesson was simple: sometimes you just have to start.
Source: menshealth.com
The post Rob Lea’s 7 Seas, 7 Summits Finish Was Built on Feel, Not Fancy Metrics appeared first on .
]]>The post Why Sleep Quality Matters So Much for Women’s Heart Health After 45 appeared first on .
]]>The analysis drew on health data from about 3,000 women in the long-running Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation, or SWAN. Researchers looked at several measures from the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8, including blood glucose, blood pressure, sleep quality, and nicotine use. While those four factors were the most important in forecasting future cardiovascular disease risk, sleep emerged as the leading predictor of whether participants would experience a cardiovascular event or die from any cause. Women with better sleep quality had lower risk in both areas, according to the report.
Experts cited in the report point to several possible reasons for the link. Poor sleep can contribute to inflammation, which may affect the cells lining the heart’s veins and play a role in cardiovascular disease. Sleep loss may also influence daily habits, including eating patterns, which can over time affect nutrition, blood sugar, diabetes risk, and heart disease. In addition, chronic sleep deprivation is associated with high blood pressure, higher risk of heart attack and stroke, obesity, and poor blood sugar control — all of which are cardiovascular risk factors.
In the study, sleep quality was measured through responses about trouble falling asleep, waking up during the night, and waking too early and struggling to fall back asleep. The findings are especially relevant for menopausal women, who face rising cardiovascular risk as estrogen levels decline and sleep problems become more common during the transition. Since cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women, the research suggests that protecting sleep may be an important part of protecting heart health in midlife and beyond.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Why Sleep Quality Matters So Much for Women’s Heart Health After 45 appeared first on .
]]>The post Can Some People Naturally Build Muscle Faster Than Others? appeared first on .
]]>Genetics can influence body type, metabolism, recovery speed, and how the body responds to exercise and muscle-repair signals. One of the biggest factors is muscle-fiber makeup. Fast-twitch fibers are better suited to powerful, explosive work and may have more potential for growth, while slow-twitch fibers are more endurance-oriented. That means some people may gain size and strength faster than others, even on similar programs. Still, the report notes that training can modestly affect muscle-fiber profile over time, and there is no simple practical way to know an exact fiber breakdown without a muscle biopsy.
Age is another factor. Younger adults, typically those under their mid-30s, often recover more quickly and may build strength and muscle faster because their bodies can handle training stress and repair tissue more efficiently. Older adults can still make strong progress, but they may need more recovery time between sessions. Training experience also matters: beginners often see quicker gains early on because their bodies are adapting to a new stimulus, a phase often called “newbie gains.”
Even with these differences, the report emphasizes that muscle growth is possible for everyone. As one expert put it, genetics help define the range of potential, but training and nutrition determine where someone lands within it. Building muscle is also presented as an important long-term investment, since it supports joint stability, balance, posture, injury protection, and the ability to stay active with age.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Can Some People Naturally Build Muscle Faster Than Others? appeared first on .
]]>The post End-of-Summer Swimsuit Deals Include Up to 65% Off Editor-Approved Picks appeared first on .
]]>The roundup highlights styles across a wide range of needs, including supportive one-pieces, sporty suits, trendy bikinis, tankinis, and more coverage-focused options. The featured selections come from retailers and brands the editors regularly use, including Nordstrom, Amazon, Nike, Quince, and Lands’ End, with prices and markdowns that vary by item.
Among the deals listed are a Lands’ End tankini set marked down 40%, a Shapellx tummy-control one-piece, a UV Skinz long-sleeve swimsuit, and several bikini styles from Zaful, Blooming Jelly, Cupshe, Popvil, and Eomenie. The list also includes Nike separates and Quince swimwear, with some of Quince’s pieces discounted by as much as 65%. The report notes that popular sizes and colors tend to go quickly, so the best options may not stay in stock for long.
Overall, the selection is aimed at shoppers looking for a last-minute vacation suit or anyone who wants to get ahead on next summer’s wardrobe while prices are lower than usual.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post End-of-Summer Swimsuit Deals Include Up to 65% Off Editor-Approved Picks appeared first on .
]]>The post Why Power Walking Is Getting So Much Attention in Fitness Right Now appeared first on .
]]>Experts cited in the piece say that a faster walk increases the demand on the heart and muscles, which can help improve cardiorespiratory fitness, increase oxygen turnover, and burn more calories. It may also support better blood pressure and blood glucose levels. In short, the article describes power walking as a more efficient way to get more out of the same basic workout.
Power walking is not the same as a relaxed stroll. The report says it means walking at your fastest sustainable pace, with effort that goes beyond what feels comfortable. One expert described the target as a seven on a one-to-10 effort scale, with a noticeable rise in heart rate and heavier breathing. Calves may also feel more engaged during the effort.
For beginners, the piece notes that benefits can show up with as little as 10 minutes of power walking. A sample routine includes a five-minute warm-up at an easy pace, 10 minutes of fast walking while actively using the arms and core and, if possible, adding incline, followed by a five-minute cooldown. The article also highlights a broader walking-and-lifestyle-shoe roundup, including options praised for slip-on convenience, cushioning, comfort, and style.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Why Power Walking Is Getting So Much Attention in Fitness Right Now appeared first on .
]]>The post Why This Tinted Sunscreen Has Become a Daily Workout-Ready Essential appeared first on .
]]>The formula is described as lightweight and buildable, starting with a sheer finish that can be layered to medium coverage. It comes in three shades — Clear, Tinted, and Deep — and is said to blend easily, whether applied all over the face or used in combination with bronzer for added warmth. The report also notes that it works well with other makeup products such as blush, bronzer, and setting powder, making it a practical option for people who want a simpler base on busy days.
What sets this sunscreen apart, according to the report, is its compatibility with oily and acne-prone skin. It is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and praised by dermatologists for its lightweight feel. The formula includes niacinamide, lactic acid, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, octinoxate, and zinc oxide, and it is water-resistant for up to two hours. The reviewer says it has not clogged pores or triggered breakouts, even after repeated use, and that it provides enough hydration to work on its own or with moisturizer.
After testing many face sunscreens, the editor calls it one of the most dependable options for everyday wear. The main limitation, according to the report, is that it does not deliver a full-coverage foundation look. Still, for those seeking a sunscreen that can simplify a morning routine while offering broad-spectrum protection and a natural finish, it remains a strong favorite.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Why This Tinted Sunscreen Has Become a Daily Workout-Ready Essential appeared first on .
]]>The post Why Some Gym-Goers Are Turning to Melanotan II for a Faster Tan appeared first on .
]]>Melanotan II was originally developed decades ago by researchers at the University of Arizona as a sunless tanning agent. It works by mimicking alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone and prompting pigment cells to produce more melanin. Early studies also suggested it could affect sexual function in men, but the drug’s clinical development was stopped after a series of side effects emerged, including facial flushing, nausea, and spontaneous erections.
The FDA does not approve melanotan II for human use, and it is not on the list of peptides expected to receive looser restrictions at an upcoming panel review. The report says the peptide remains in a category tied to limited clinical evidence and major safety concerns. Among the more serious adverse events noted by the FDA are melanoma, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, sympathomimetic toxidrome, and prolonged, painful erections.
Beyond those risks, case reports have linked melanotan II to rapid muscle breakdown, reduced blood flow to the kidneys, and sudden mole development. One teenage boy reportedly developed nearly 40 moles on his back after using it, and a dermatologist said that could increase his melanoma risk. At the same time, the connection between melanotan II and skin cancer remains debated, in part because many users also have a history of heavy UV exposure, including tanning bed use.
Even with those concerns, misinformation continues to spread online. According to the report, some social media posts falsely claim the peptide protects against skin cancer, and many users appear unconcerned about the risks. But the peptide does not provide natural protection from UV exposure, and the reported side effects alone may be enough to make some people think twice before trying it.
Source: menshealth.com
The post Why Some Gym-Goers Are Turning to Melanotan II for a Faster Tan appeared first on .
]]>The post Rower or Treadmill? How to Choose the Cardio Machine That Fits Your Goals appeared first on .
]]>On a treadmill, the legs do most of the work, with the quads, hamstrings, glutes, core, and calves helping drive each step. That makes it useful for building power, speed, endurance, and lower-body strength. The tradeoff is impact: running and jogging place more stress on the joints, which can be helpful for bone density but may not be ideal for people with joint concerns or prior lower-body injuries.
The rower, by contrast, is described as a full-body, low-impact option that recruits the upper back and biceps along with the legs, especially the quads and glutes. Because more muscles are involved, it can create a higher energy demand and raise oxygen use even at moderate intensity. According to the report, that can make the rower especially appealing for people looking for efficient calorie burn or a joint-friendly workout, though the machine is more technical and good form matters.
For weight loss, the rower may have an edge in theory because it asks more of the body, but the report emphasizes that consistency matters most. The best machine is the one you will actually use regularly. For strength, the treadmill can help when used with incline, but the rower is said to offer more whole-body resistance. For cardiovascular health, both can be effective, and the real difference comes down to how often and how intentionally they are used.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post Rower or Treadmill? How to Choose the Cardio Machine That Fits Your Goals appeared first on .
]]>The post How to Wash Produce Safely During the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak appeared first on .
]]>Because the illness can cause symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and diarrhea, public health officials are urging people to wash and cook fresh produce. The CDC notes that chemical disinfectants are unlikely to kill Cyclospora, while heat and cooking can be effective, according to health authorities.
Health experts say there is no need to buy a special produce wash, since plain running water is considered the best option for reducing many residues and contaminants. A salad spinner or vegetable brush can help with cleanup, but the key step is rinsing fruits and vegetables under clean water. It is also a good idea to wait and wash produce just before eating rather than storing it after rinsing.
Different types of produce need slightly different handling. Leafy greens should be rinsed in a strainer under cold water, then dried with a salad spinner. Berries can be rinsed just before eating, and some people also use a baking soda soak or an apple cider vinegar soak, though the two should not be mixed together. Soft-skinned fruits like peaches, plums, and tomatoes should be washed gently, while root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and beets may need a brush if they are not being peeled. Even thick-skinned items like avocados, bananas, onions, and oranges should be washed before cutting so dirt or residue does not transfer from the skin to the edible part.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
The post How to Wash Produce Safely During the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak appeared first on .
]]>The post We Tried a $10,000 Cold Plunge to See If the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 Is Worth It appeared first on .
]]>The testing experience was notably simple once the tub was in place. The setup involved connecting the hoses, filling the tub with a garden hose, and letting the system handle the rest. The chiller can both heat and cool the water, and its temperature can be adjusted directly or through an app. The only real drawback on the practical side is size and weight: the tub is large, heavy, and not something that moves easily once filled.
Where the Brainpod 2.0 stands out most is in the plunge itself. The chiller can bring the water down to near-freezing temperatures and keep it there, which removes the usual hassle of adding ice or waiting for the water to cool again. The tub is roomy enough for a full-body soak, and an insulated cover helps hold the temperature between sessions. The interior jets keep the water circulating, which may not appeal to cold-plunge purists, but the tester found the movement energizing. After repeated use, the routine became less of a shock and more of a reliable daily reset.
At $10,990, the Brainpod 2.0 is undeniably expensive, and the report notes that there are cheaper cold plunge options available. Still, for someone who wants cold therapy to feel consistent, convenient, and easy to maintain at home, the system appears to deliver on its promise. The overall verdict is that it is a high-end purchase, but one that makes regular cold plunging feel practical rather than like a novelty.
Source: menshealth.com
The post We Tried a $10,000 Cold Plunge to See If the Polar Monkeys Brainpod 2.0 Is Worth It appeared first on .
]]>The post Rob Lea’s 7 Seas, 7 Summits Finish Was Built on Feel, Not Fancy Metrics appeared first on .
]]>Lea’s route to the finish started years earlier, after an ankle reconstruction in 2017 pushed him to look for a new goal beyond rehab. Already an accomplished athlete — a 2012 70.3 triathlon world champion and a former All-American swimmer at UC Davis — he decided to take on the English Channel. That led him to compare major swims and climbs, and in 2019 he added Everest to the English Channel within six months, alongside a cross-country bike ride. He had already climbed Aconcagua in 2009 and Denali in 2010, and the larger challenge eventually grew into the full Seven Summits and Oceans 7 combination.
Despite the scale of the project, Lea says his preparation was not built around highly detailed tracking or rigid plans. Instead, he trained largely by feel, relying on the endurance base he had developed over years in sports. The one area he focused on heavily was cold tolerance, especially for the channel swims. That meant cold baths, swimming in cold water, and even putting on weight before the English Channel. On the mountains, he and his wife did technical training to feel more comfortable in big alpine conditions.
Nutrition was handled with the same practical approach. On land, he aimed to keep enough weight on to handle cold water, while at sea he stuck to a feeding schedule, a calorie target, and liquid nutrition to avoid losing time to currents. Lea also said he was not consumed by the fear of failing, even though he knew failure was always possible. He pointed to difficult moments, including a case of swimming-induced pulmonary edema after the Molokai Channel in 2025, as reminders that anything can happen. Even so, he got back in the water for the final swim, saying the biggest lesson was simple: sometimes you just have to start.
Source: menshealth.com
The post Rob Lea’s 7 Seas, 7 Summits Finish Was Built on Feel, Not Fancy Metrics appeared first on .
]]>