03 May
Blog

Exercises With Directions & Benefits

A dumbbell chest workout consists of a number of variations that mainly focus on working your chest, building its muscles, and making it more defined. When you work your chest with dumbbells, you have a firmer and more substantial range of motion, which leads to more muscle growth. These exercises will also help you maintain proper balance and promote your body's development.

They help build your upper body strength and stabilize your shoulders. They primarily target your deltoids, pecs, triceps, and other chest muscles.

Below is a list of Dumbbell chest workout This works like magic and will help you get a fitter and more muscular body in no time!

Variations of the dumbbell chest training:

1. Bench press with dumbbells

Directions

1. Y must lie down on a bench. Hold the dumbbells over your shoulders in each hand. Your palms should be facing towards your feet.

2. Then lift the weights above your chest and continue to straighten your elbows until both arms are erect or straight.

3. Now slowly bring the dumbbells back to their starting position.

To repeat.

Services

Dumbbell bench press is really beneficial for increasing your athletic performance and your ability to do daily activities quickly. They are also responsible for promoting a better range of motion in your body and increasing your upper body strength.

You should do several repetitions- 10 repetitions.

2. Dumbbell chest flies

Directions

1. First you need to lie down on a flat bench with your head and back firmly pressed against the bench. This should be kept in mind throughout the exercise. Take a dumbbell in each hand. This is the starting position.

2. Then lift your weights above your chest and straighten your elbows until they are slightly bent. Your palms and dumbbells should face each other.

3. Take a deep breath, then slowly lower the weights in an arched position until both arms are in line with your chest.

4. Now exhale and lift the weights again after the same arching motion.

To repeat.

Services

This exercise is of great use when you want to reduce tension in your body muscles, increase your body's range of motion, improve your posture, and reduce upper back pain.

You should do several repetitions- 10 repetitions.

3. One arm offset dumbbell bench press

Directions

1. First of all, you need to lie with your left shoulder blade and buttock on the bench and your right shoulder blade and right buttock off the surface on a flat bench. Be in a position with only your upper back on the bench.

2. Take a dumbbell with your right hand and hold the bench with your left hand, which should be above your head.

3. Now lower the barbell until your elbow is aligned with your shoulder.

4. Return to the starting position.

To repeat.

Services

This exercise will help increase your physical strength and stabilize your shoulders. It's also useful for increasing muscle activation and improving your body's movement.

Number of repetitions you should be doing 10 repetitions per side

frequently asked Questions

1. Are dumbbells better for my chest?

Of course, dumbbells are great for your chest as they honestly guarantee a defined and well-built body with greater muscle activation and more upper body strength.

Therefore, add dumbbell chest workouts to your daily exercise regimen without worrying!

2. How can I build my chest with dumbbells at home?

It's pretty easy. Suppose you want to have a more prominent and clear chest while exercising at home. In this case, the exercises listed above are the perfect option for you as they are fairly simple, not hectic and do not require any special equipment other than free weights and a flat bench.

3. Is the bench press effective?

Yes, the bench press is considered very effective as it helps you maintain a very great and muscular body, as well as many other functions.

03 May
Blog

Vitamin C: What Does It Do For Your Skin?

It's no secret that vitamin C is a skin care superstar. This powerful ingredient is known for its ability to lighten the complexion, even out skin tone, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Here is everything you need to know about vitamin C and how to add it to your skin care routine.

What is Vitamin C

First things first: what exactly is vitamin C? Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that is required for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues, including the skin. How Eminence Organics Senior skin care trainer Natalie Pergar tells us, “Vitamin C is an incredibly powerful nutrient for your body and an all-round skin care saver. It's been found to help prevent UV damage, reduce pigmentation, reduce inflammation, and increase collagen production in the skin. "We can't make vitamin C and our bodies don't store it. So we can only get its benefits by ingesting it (think chewable vitamins and freshly squeezed orange juice) or by applying it topically (keyword vitamin C in your favorite skin care serums and moisturizers)." Popular sources of vitamin C are:

  • Citrus fruits like lemon, orange, and grapefruit
  • Leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli, and spinach
  • tomatoes
  • Strawberries
  • Wild rose oil
  • Sea buckthorn oil

Vitamin C benefits for the skin

The benefits of vitamin C for skin seem endless. One of its most important features is that it can alleviate skin problems before (and even after) they appear. According to Natalie, "One of the great things about vitamin C is that it helps prevent and repair damage caused by our environment." During the day, vitamin C can provide additional protection against the effects of aging Environmental stressors such as pollution, blue light, and ultraviolet rays; At night, its rejuvenating properties can minimize the occurrence of damage caused by exposure to free radicals. Here you can see the many benefits of vitamin C for skin care.

Fights free radicals

Heidi Waldorf, MD describes free radicals as "anti-oxygen bombs that cause inflammation and cascade damage". These highly unstable molecules are missing an electron and are stealing electrons from otherwise healthy cells in an attempt to stabilize. This type of attack changes the cell composition and triggers oxidative damage, which manifests itself in dryness, irritation and premature aging.

How can free radicals be stopped? Neutralize the "bomb", so to speak. Antioxidants donate an electron to free radicals before they can cause undue damage to the skin. Vitamin C is one such antioxidant that it can Neutralize and remove free radicals, minimizing the visible effects of exposure to pollution, particulates and other types of environmental stress.

Supports the skin's barrier function

Among other things, vitamin C has a positive effect on the general health of the skin by supporting the skin's barrier function. The lipid barrier is an integral part of the outer layer of your skin and is often compared to mortar that holds the stones together that are your skin cells. When healthy, it acts like protecting your skin: it keeps up good by helping the skin to retain moisture, and keeps the bad at bay by denying potential irritants (like nuisance free radicals). Studies show that vitamin C increases the production of barrier lipids and thus the skin's ability to protect itself from transepidermal water loss and keep it healthy, happy, and hydrated.

Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles

Collagen and elastin are common victims of free radical damage. These structural proteins are responsible for the density and crack associated with a youthful complexion. When weakened, they cannot provide much-needed structural support, and as a result, the visible signs of aging (including sagging skin and fine lines and wrinkles) begin to develop.

As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps fight off the visible signs of aging from free radical damage. In fact, a 2007 study by the The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that women ages 40 to 74 who consumed a lot of vitamin C appeared to have fewer fine lines and wrinkles and less overall dryness in their skin.

Benefits of Vitamin C Infographic

Brightens the skin

The antioxidant quality of vitamin C also helps minimize the occurrence of hyperpigmentation. The skin defends itself in times of stress Triggering cells called melanocytes to produce the pigment melanin. Vitamin C inhibits the function of tyrosinase, the enzyme that activates the skin's melanocytes, preventing melanin production and minimizing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. This contributes to a brighter and more even complexion.

Increases the regeneration of skin cells

Skin cell turnover is the process by which dead cells are removed from the top layer of skin and new, fresh cells come to the surface. One characteristic of healthy skin is its ability to turn over efficiently – a process that slows down as we age. Due to its acidic nature, vitamin C is helpful in removing dead and damaged skin cells and thus accelerating the skin's natural turnover process. This not only smooths out Skin texture, but also reduces dullness and minimizes the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Increases collagen production

In addition to extrinsic factors (such as environmental stress), intrinsic or biological aging contributes to the decline in collagen. As you age, your skin's collagen stores break down and break down naturally, resulting in visible signs of aging. Not only vitamin C Activates the skin's fibroblasts to produce new collagen. It also stabilizes the collagen that is already there and helps the skin look firm, plump and youthful for longer.

Check out In The Mix, where Natalie describes how vitamin C can reverse the visible signs of aging:

(embed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0xuBjmfuw8 (/ embed)

How to use a vitamin C serum

Natalie tells us, "Vitamin C is essential to everyone's routine. Your body doesn't make this vitamin. The only way to get its benefits is to apply it topically." One of the best means of transporting vitamin C to the skin is a serum. Here's how to use a vitamin C serum in your skin care routine.

Perform a patch test

If you have For sensitive skin, we recommend doing a patch test before adding a new ingredient to your skin care regimen. Follow these steps with a licensed esthetician at your preferred Eminence Organics Spa partner:

  1. Pick a small area of ​​skin that can be easily covered (like your forearm or behind your ear).
  2. Apply a small amount of product and wait 24 hours.
  3. If there are no side effects, apply them to your face. Discontinue use if you experience symptoms such as rash, redness, or hives.

Add a vitamin C serum to your skin regimen

Adding a vitamin C serum to your skin care routine is easy. Vitamin C is usually formulated in a fast-absorbing formula suitable for all skin types that can be used both morning and evening. Skin care experts recommend applying 1-2 drops of serum to clean, firm skin. Use your fingers to spread a thin layer of serum over your face and neck and wait for it to be completely absorbed before applying your favorite facial oil and / or moisturizer.

In this video, Natalie teaches you how to add vitamin C to your skincare routine:

(embed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ns2vGlR83co (/ embed)

What to look for in a vitamin C serum

There are a few things to consider when choosing a vitamin C serum. Choose a serum with:

  1. L-ascorbic acid (the most potent and effective type of vitamin C in skin care).
  2. A concentration of 10-20%. Below 10% may not be strong enough and above 20% can be too strong for most skin types.
  3. Supplementary ingredients like vitamin E and ferulic acid improve the antioxidant properties of vitamin C and keep the formula stable.

Potent C + E serum for citrus fruits and kale

Eminence Organics Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Serum is a lightweight formula that can be easily added to any skin care routine. This serum is formulated with Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid which, as mentioned, improve its antioxidant properties and help it maintain its effectiveness. This formula also contains three types of vitamin C. First, there is L-ascorbic acid, a powerful form of the antioxidant. Second, you can find vitamin C from natural sources – citrus fruits like lemon and orange, and leafy greens like kale and broccoli. And third, the serum contains sodium ascorbyl phosphate (also known as vitamin C salt), which is shown below.

Pro tip: Improve your routine with the Rosehip Triple C + E Firming Oil and the Citrus & Kale Potent C + E Masque. The moisturizing properties of these complementary products add essential moisture and stimulate the skin to absorb more vitamin C over time, improving the effectiveness of the serum.

Why vitamin C + E together?

There's a reason we combine vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid. Says Natalie, "Together, these ingredients provide additional free radical protection to further reduce the occurrence of damage, so the skin stays healthy, smooth, and glowing." Mindbodygreen, a study found that these two ingredients increased the effectiveness of vitamin C by eight times! The addition of vitamin E and ferulic acid not only increases the effectiveness, but also stabilizes vitamin C, a notoriously sensitive ingredient.

How to Store Vitamin C and Keep It Stable

Vitamin C is a susceptible ingredient that degrades when routinely exposed to air and light. If not protected, it degrades and oxidizes quickly, losing its antioxidant properties. In addition to storing your vitamin C serum for a serum packaged in an opaque, air-restricted bottle, store it in a cool, dark place to protect it. You can even keep it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh longer.

Are you ready to add a vitamin C serum to your skin care regimen? Visit an Eminence Organics Spa Affiliate to learn more about how this classic ingredient can benefit your skin.

This post was originally published in August 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and completeness.

03 May
Blog

New Pokémon Snap Review: As Wholesome As Can Be

New Pokemon Snap

"New Pokemon Snap is a worthy sequel to a beloved classic that's full of charm and a surprising amount of content."

  • Intuitive photo mechanic

  • The gameplay rewards curiosity

  • Lots of content

  • Fun photo editing

  • Grindy gameplay loop

  • Uncooked social traits

How on earth did it take so long for New Pokémon Snap to exist? The original Pokémon Snap has held a special place in fans' hearts for over 20 years, and they're practically begging for more. Given that there are as many Pokémon spin-offs as there are creatures themselves, the decision to wait that long is mind-boggling.

As a series (god it feels good to finally call it a series), Pokémon Snap is almost the ideal implementation of the franchise. Instead of fighting monsters, players can simply immerse themselves in their habitats and observe every precious behavior. While it is a tragedy that Pokémon are not real, the photo simulator is a suitable vacation in their world.

New Pokémon Snap is a wonderful sequel that fits the social media era perfectly. With tons of courses to explore and interactions to discover, it's a laid-back amusement park ride that's a worthy evolution of the original.

Take a picture, it will take longer

For those who have never grown up with a game old enough to drink, New Pokémon Snap is a first-person shooter – but not what you think. It's a photo simulator where players leisurely drive through the new lental region, taking pictures of creatures as they pass. It's like touring a series of healthy nature reserves.

Pokémon has always been a franchise with two distinct strengths. For RPG Diehards, it's a strategic game that can be highly competitive and complex. For those who think Pikachu is just damn cute, it's just a good excuse to collect some creatures. New Pokémon Snap is a game designed specifically for the latter that gives "I have to catch them all" a new meaning.

The central photo mechanic works so well because it's easy to understand, but offers plenty of nuances for dedicated players to work with. The challenge is to create perfect compositions, not to run the basics. Almost anyone can pick it up and immediately understand how to play. It is particularly suitable for our modern times, when children use cameras from a young age thanks to smartphones. Photography is incorporated into our basic lives more than ever, and New Pokémon Snap is putting those skills to the test.

It's an ingenious twist on the franchise that turns something we do every day into the most intuitive gameplay hook in the world.

To help players get their perfect shots, the game features little tools that create different interactions. Throw a fluffruit at a Pokémon and they will happily chew it and give players a new pose to capture. Play a little music box and a chandalure might spin in response. Each tool brings a level of experimentation into the game that constantly rewards curiosity with consistently pleasing results.

The slow, relaxed pace won't work for everyone. Like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, it's a leisurely game that works best when you sit back on the couch in handheld mode on a lazy weekend day. But as for Pokémon games that try to appeal to casual fans, it's an ingenious twist in the franchise that makes something we do every day the most intuitive gameplay hook in the world.

More to discover

While the original game was a brief curiosity that could be 100% completed in six hours, New Pokémon Snap is finding several ways to improve game time. The biggest difference is that the sequel features a narrative about a mysteriously glowing Pokémon phenomenon that brings more specific goals and progress to the game. There are even "boss fights" where players have to test their reaction time to snap rare photos of giants like Milotic. It's a simple solution that adds structure to those who are put off by the free form of its predecessor.

New Pokemon Snap

There are many more ways to photograph this time. The original game only had 62 Pokémon, while this one has over 200. In addition, each monster has four different poses that can be caught. It takes over 800 unique shots to get one shot of everything, which is way above the Nintendo 64 version.

The same applies to courses. There are 11 main locations, but each has a variant that increases the number of unique levels to 24. It doesn't even take into account the alternative routes hidden at each level or the research level system, adding four minor differences to each level. Throw in over 140 photo requests and a slew of unlockable objects and players with a lot more to do this time around.

While targeting casual gamers, it's a deceptively deep package that a dedicated fan can spend a lot of time mastering.

Granted, it can be a bit of a chore. To get everything, players have to repeat the courses over and over again. Even with the variations, it can be a bit difficult to play the same stage a dozen times to get the maximum level of research. The NEO-ONE vehicle slowly rolls along the game's tracks. A turbo tool while playing helps speed things up. However, if someone wants to catch a Pokémon that doesn't appear until the end of a stage, they'll have to wait for the car to stomp to the end for the chance.

Despite the repetition, it's a little surprising to compare the original and the sequel in terms of content. The story alone lasts around 12 hours, and adding online leaderboards gives the game a huge lifespan for those who have that high score itch. While targeting casual gamers, it's a deceptively deep package that a dedicated fan can spend a lot of time mastering.

The social network

The best thing about a sequel to Pokémon Snap that launches in 2021 is that it can reach its full social potential. Something like that. New Pokémon Snap has an online element for players to share their best shots. For longtime fans, a dream comes true, although without some restrictions it wouldn't be a Nintendo internet experience.

Players can only upload six photos at a time, which is disappointingly limited. On the Online tab, players can only browse a very small selection of trending photos. This includes photos of friends that appear under a vague "Featured" tab that only shows the most recent snapshots. There is no way to search for a friend and simply check their profile. Instead, players will need to find a photo of them when it appears in Recommended and click on their page from there. It is an unnecessarily sparse but complicated implementation of a basic idea.

For longtime fans, a dream comes true, although without some restrictions it wouldn't be a Nintendo internet experience.

It's hard not to think about what could have been here. Imagine an in-game social media app where players can scroll through their friends' photos, add tags to their shots, or filter by a Pokémon's name to find the best creature shots in the world. It is particularly surprising that the game lacks integration with Nintendo's mobile app. It feels like a missed opportunity that could reach its full social potential.

Fortunately, the game has an ace up its sleeve: its photo editing tools. Players can customize shots in a mini version of Instagram that includes filters, frames, and stickers. Images can even be "re-captured", giving players the option to re-frame a shot, change the exposure, or play with focus. It's a small but powerful touch that breaks the game wide open. It no longer feels as if there were a set number of “good” shots during the journeys on the rails. There are tons of ways to create a masterpiece. Even a bad snapshot can subsequently become a work of art.

New Pokemon Snap

The photo editor gives the game its true social power. I've spent the past few days sending photos to friends or sharing them on Discord servers. The satisfaction of having a mate compliment on my carefully crafted shot is far more satisfying than the thousands of strangers who like it online. It might be just a side-effect of the lack of online functionality, but New Pokémon Snap is a more personal social experience that's best enjoyed when players have someone to trade discoveries with.

Our opinion

New Pokémon Snap is a wonderful sequel to a beloved classic, which is no easy task. It avoids being a simple act of nostalgia by giving players tons of photo ops to track and more control over their final shots. There's more room for growth, be it through DLC or a sequel, but it's a healthy photo game for fans looking to immerse themselves in the colorful glow of the Pokémon universe.

Is there a better alternative?

There are many great niche photography games like Umurangi Generation, but New Pokémon Snap is unmatched in its depth of content.

How long it will take?

The main story lasts 12 hours, but if you take all of the 800+ shots, the watch will have plenty of time. Unlockables, side requests, and post-game leaderboards make this pack a surprisingly robust package compared to the original.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It's a chill experience that goes perfectly with the Nintendo Switch. It's the kind of game that you can break out when you have a few free minutes and give your day a little boost of joy.

Editor's recommendations




02 May
Blog

Dumbbell Deadlift : Steps, Variations & Benefits

The dumbbell deadlift is just a game of the classic and more popular deadlift, in which an athlete lifts two solid dumbbells together that rest on either side. This exercise is very beneficial as it encourages the work of all core muscles and maintains proper movement and posture of the body. It also helps in improving overall body balance. It's no wonder they are one of the most effective exercises for making your body fitter, more muscular, and more powerful.

Below are the steps you need to take in order to properly perform the dumbbell deadlift.

Steps to effective deadlifting with dumbbells:

1. First stand with your legs shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.

2. Lift two heavy dumbbells with your palms, grasp them completely as an overhand grip, and hold them on either side of your body.

3. Now bend your knees and hips and lower your chest until it is parallel to the floor.

4. Let both arms hang in front of your knees and try to keep your body in a neutral position. Always remember to position yourself steadily and in an organized manner.

5. Then come back to the starting position and stand straight without changing the position of your back.

It is known that this is a repetition.

Variation of dumbbell deadlift:

1. One-legged dumbbell deadlift This variation of the dumbbell deadlift is practiced by lifting one leg off the floor and stretching it backwards.

2. dumbbell stiff leg deadlift This category of dumbbell deadlift is performed by keeping your legs motionless and lowering the weights so they are directly above your head.

3. One-armed dumbbell deadlift In this version, you need to hold the dumbbell between your legs while doing push and pull movements.

Services:

1. Improving the connection of your mind with your muscles

The dumbbell deadlift is an isolation exercise because it focuses primarily on one muscle joint – the hamstrings. Hence, this exercise mainly focuses on working on your hamstrings. This way, you can lift heavy weights without a lot of chaos, while also increasing the tension on your hamstrings.

2. Helps in increasing the mass of your hamstrings and glutes:

Practicing this workout will stimulate the fibers of your muscles, hamstrings, and glutes. This greatly helps in building your muscle mass, which makes your lower part of the body look more defined and improves your muscular activity.

3. Refine your athleticism by improving your athletic performance:

Practicing this exercise will increase your energy levels like never before! It will also refine your posture and make you fit enough to practice various sports with no problem.

Things To Consider When Performing Dumbbell Deadlift:

1. You should always choose the weights according to your load-bearing capacity. Do not lift heavy weights as it can cause injury and only damage your body.

2. Always make sure that your back is in a neutral position and not bent as this can cause long-term injury.

3. It is important that you lower your weights properly, following the exact vertical path you took to lift them.

4. Remember to hold the bar in front of your shin. The greater the distance between your shins and the bar, the greater the risk of lumbar spine flexion and a herniated disc.

frequently asked Questions

1. What muscles does dumbbell deadlift work?

Dumbbell Deadlift is primarily concerned with the work of the hamstrings, glutes, maximus, and quadriceps.

2. What's a good weight to start deadlifting?

225 lbs is considered significant for beginners, while 185 lbs is good and 115 kg is decent.

3. Is it okay to deadlift three times a week?

Yes, deadlifting three times a week is okay if you are physically fit and active.

01 May
Blog

Shark Vacmop Review: A Swiffer Sweeper on Steroids

Shark Vacmop Lights

"The Shark Vacmop takes everything I love about the popular Swiffer Sweeper and adds suction to better collect debris on the floor."

  • Sweep and wipe lightly at the same time

  • No uncomplicated disposal with pads

  • Decent intake performance

Shark's robotic vacuum cleaners are characterized by a balanced relationship between performance and price. While the cordless vacuum line is available from a variety of options, only one is particularly suitable for both picking up dirt from hard floors and cleaning up spilled material.

The Shark Vacmop uses the Swiffer Sweeper approach by acting as a dry sweeper and mop at the same time, saving you the hassle of needing two separate cleaners. You may be wondering if there are any compromises with a 2-in-1 device like this one. So I went through some good cleaning scenarios to find out.

From the sweeper to the mop

Arguably the most compelling feature of the Shark Vacmop is its ability to sweep and then mop with minimal effort. With your traditional Swiffer Sweeper, you need to discard the dry pad and then replace it with a wet one to make the transition possible. There's none of this with the Vacmop that makes it particularly versatile when it comes to cleaning up different types of dirt.

Shark Vacmop on the wallJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The disposable pillow is effectively used for both sweeping and mopping as there is a small corner that soaks up dirt on the floor and stows everything in the pillow itself. The suction is adequate for most tasks, but I was surprised how it can still suck up dirt if the pad gets wet while wiping. I really appreciate the convenience of sweeping and mopping at the same time because it saves time.

There is a bit of resistance when pushing and pulling the 5 pound shark vacuum cleaner, however. It doesn't have the same level of effortless movement as a Swiffer Sweeper. Sure, the head can be hinged the same way a Swiffer can pivot to collect dirt and debris, but the drag makes it a little more difficult to maneuver.

Additional costs for disposable pads

Much like a Swiffer sweeper, the Shark Vacmop requires you to purchase disposable pads that need to be replaced as soon as they become dirty or filled with dirt. Removing the pad is a breeze, accomplished by pressing a button on the side of the head. The device unlocks the disposable pillow. All you really have to do is place it over a garbage can that it can be dropped into.

Shark Vacmop PadJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

While this makes it very convenient, you have to keep in mind that the Shark Vacmop will not work without the disposable pad. You also need to keep in mind that there is an ongoing cost to owning the Vacmop: about $ 24 for a 30-point refill of disposable pads. For comparison, a 40-pack of Swiffer Sweeper dry-sweeping wipes costs around $ 13 – so you pay significantly more for the Vacmop.

I really appreciate the convenience of sweeping and mopping at the same time.

There's also the multi-surface liquid cleaner that you need to buy if you want to mop your hard floors. It's $ 10 for a two-liter bottle that is then poured into the vacmop. Since the device is battery-operated, the liquid multi-surface cleaner is dispensed by pressing the button on the handle. I actually like how it dries out quickly on my wooden floors without leaving streaks. It is worth noting, however, that it is not a disinfectant solution. If you choose any other solution, all you need to know is that there is a risk of damage to the device.

You can cut your expenses by limiting the frequency of cleaning. However, don't be fooled by focusing solely on the $ 100 initial cost.

Short battery life

If you have a lot of space to sweep and mop, you should look for another solution as the Shark Vacmop has a 13 minute battery life. This is really short, which means it's best reserved for the clutter on site. While it is still possible to clean larger rooms, you will need to take breaks so that you can charge the Vacmop with the included magnetic charger.

Shark Vacmop magnetic connectorJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

I've mainly used the Shark Vacmop after dinner to remove any crumbs that are collecting on the floor. Since I don't sweep and mop the kitchen area for more than five minutes, the short battery life isn't an issue for me, but I can see how it can be a limiting factor for others.

Finally, I just want to point out that the package does not contain any other attachments. So don't expect to find a crevice or a brush tool.

Our opinion

Shark's take on the Swiffer Sweeper is interesting. There's no denying the fact that steroids are a Swiffer as it takes everything I love about the popular street sweeper and adds suction to better collect dirt on the floor – while also being able to switch to a mopper without having to remove the pad.

The $ 100 startup cost isn't bad, but consider the added cost of purchasing the disposable pads and the multi-surface cleaner.

How long it will take?

The Vacmop is made of robust plastic materials and offers a robust quality. In fact, it fell over several times with no signs of damage. There is a one-year limited warranty in case something goes wrong internally due to a defect.

Is there a better alternative?

The Dyson Omni-Glide is characterized by its lightweight construction, effortless movement and stronger suction power as a superior sweeper. Sure, it's significantly more expensive at $ 400, but that's the only money you'll need for it.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It's inexpensive and there are few models that can sweep and mop at the same time.

Editor's recommendations




01 May
Blog

Hip Abduction : Top 3 Exercises & Benefits

During a glute workout, we often only focus on the gluteus maximus, the largest muscle in the buttocks. The gluteus medius and gluteus minimus are two other muscles in addition to the largest muscle in the hip. These other two muscles need to be focused in order to properly burn the hip.

What is hip abduction?

Hip abduction is the movement of the hips on the side away from the other leg. All three hip muscles play a role in hip abduction, but it is primarily the gluteus medius.

Benefits of hip abduction

  • Hip abduction makes your other buttocks exercises a little more effective.
  • Hip abduction increases the strength of all the muscles in your buttocks to aid your other exercises, most notably weight lifting. It has been shown to correct the condition of the knee valgus. Knee valgus is a condition in which the knee collapses and falls inward. This happens because of the low hip strength involved in other exercises such as weight lifting.
  • It helps in reducing knee pain.
  • It also helps in improving the body's balance during routine activities such as walking and standing.

Here is a reliable guide to 3 highly reliable and recommended hip abduction exercises. Try the variant mentioned with exercises to feel the burning sensation faster.

1. SIDE LYING LEG LIFT

Attitude:

  • lie on the left side of your body.
  • Stretch your legs across each other.
  • Rest your head on your left hand or on a pillow. It is recommended that you lie down so that gravity acts as a drag in performing the movement.

The movement: Raise your right leg up to 45 degrees in the air and bring it down. This is 1 rep. Do 15 to 18 reps before switching sides.

Tip: To focus more on the buttock muscle, point your feet slightly inward and nominally tilt the left waist bone a little forward.

One level higher: Use a resistance band around your lower thighs to increase the intensity of the exercise.

2. RESISTANT SPRING BAR

Attitude:

  1. Use a resistance band on your ankles.
  2. Get a quarter squat position by standing with your feet hip-width apart and bend forward at a bend and bend your knee.
  3. Keep your hands on your chest.

The movement: Jump out with your knees bent and jump back to the original stance. This is a repetition. Follow the same until you have completed 15-20 repetitions.

Tip: Bend your knees throughout the exercise

3. SIDE LYING KNEE LIFT

Attitude:

  • Lie on the left side of your body so gravity acts as a drag.
  • Rest your head on your left hand or on a pillow.
  • Bend your knees in front and make a V.

The movement: Raise your right knee in the air and keep your feet together. Raise the knee to 45 degrees and bring it down. This is a repetition. Do 15 to 18 reps before switching sides.

Tip: Keep the core engaged.

One level higher: Use a resistance band around your lower thighs to increase the intensity.

The final result

Even if your focus is not on building buttocks muscles, hip abduction is a good exercise to help you with your routine. It increases lower body balance and strength while standing or doing activities that involve your lower body. No weights or other equipment are required.

30 Apr
Blog

Sennheiser’s Mic Kit Brings Pro-Grade Audio to Your Phone

sennheiser mke 400 mobile kit review mke400 microphone switch

Sennheiser MKE 400 Mobile Kit Review: Pro grade audio recording for your phone

"With the Sennheiser MKE 400 Mobile Kit, you can exploit the potential of your smartphone as a mobile vlogging tool by adding high-quality audio and a comprehensive set of accessories."

  • Excellent audio quality

  • Complete set of accessories included

  • Compatible with phones and cameras

  • Headphone monitoring function

  • Requires you to learn new skills to put it to good use

  • The volume can be low

Your smartphone almost certainly has a high-performance video camera. Since it's always with you, it's really the perfect tool for vlogging and video creation on the go. Except that it always disappoints with the built-in microphone that has to do too many different tasks and just can't all be great.

Solving the problem has frustrated me for a while as very few of the options available are an idea. Sennheiser has now launched it MKE 400 Mobile Kitwhich allows you to record videos recorded on your phone with first class audio recording. Could this really be what I was looking for? I found out.

Why use your cell phone?

Every iPhone since the iPhone 6S has recorded 4K video, while the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra and the latest Galaxy S21 series phones record 8K video. Hence, recording high quality videos with your phone has not been a problem for a while. If this is a huge priority for you, companies like Moment make impressive lens accessories for phones, and there are plenty of video editing apps out there for iOS and Android. Your phone is really a one stop shop for video creation.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Almost. Good audio quality is important when you want to publish your videos. Nobody will want to see if they can't hear you or if they can just hear wind noise or distortion. The microphone on your smartphone is a compromise as it has to perform various tasks and it isn't high on the priority list that makes you sound good on videos. It is not suitable for remote shooting or in noisy environments.

There are several ways to cure this. Lavalier microphones are popular, but they get tied down with a cord or you could invest in an expensive wireless microphone system. But there is a fine line between this step and considering taking fully to the next level with a DSLR-based setup, and the money really adds up at this point. It can feel demoralizing looking at the different options and sometimes unnecessary with your phone right there capturing perfectly good videos.

Everything you need

What does that matter MKE 400 Mobile Kit The special thing is that it was mainly developed for use with a smartphone. The packaging includes the Sennheiser MKE 400 shotgun microphone, a sturdy aluminum smartphone clamp to hold both the phone and your phone, and a Manfrotto Pixi mini tripod that doubles as a handle. A 3.5mm TRRS cable to connect the microphone to your smartphone and another 3.5mm TRS cable to use with DSLRs offer a lot of flexibility.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The MKE 400 is attached to the smartphone clamp with a standard cold shoe holder, as two AAA batteries are used for its own power supply. The mount itself has multiple 1/4 "threaded holes for attaching to a tripod, as well as a single 3/8" threaded hole and rubber lined clamp for your phone. This can be rotated from portrait to landscape and the clip can snap into place so it doesn't move – and your phone won't come loose.

The Manfrotto Pixi tripod is small but very robust. It's made of stainless steel and has a maximum height of 5.3 inches, with each of the feet ending in a rubber grip for added stability. It's fine for use with a phone, but Manfrotto doesn't recommend it to support something heavier than 2.25 pounds, so it might not work well with some DSLRs. Firmly press the button on the side and the head can be repositioned which gives it a lot of versatility.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Pixi tripod can be used on a surface or a handheld. The clamp is big enough to fit most phones – I've used it with the iPhone 12 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra – and the connection system is simple. You'll be done and ready in less than five minutes. It is incredibly portable and very solidly made.

What about the microphone?

The MKE 400 is a Shotgun microphone with a supercardioid pattern, that is, it is designed to pick up audio directly from the front and slightly from the back, but not so much from the sides, to reduce unwanted ambient noise. The MKE 400 name has been used by Sennheiser for years, but the company has updated the design and added functionality to this newly introduced model.

sennheiser mke 400 mobile kit review mke400 mic pageAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

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sennheiser mke 400 mobile kit review mke400 clampAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

The windshield and shock mount have been placed in the metal microphone housing for a more compact and visually appealing look. A furry cover for "dead cats" is also included to further reduce wind noise. On the side of the microphone there is a volume-controlled 3.5 mm headphone output for monitoring the audio, a three-stage sensitivity gain control and a low-pass filter.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

There are two AAA batteries in the box that can be used to power the microphone. Sennheiser estimates that they last 100 hours before they have to be replaced. It weighs 93 grams, about half of most modern smartphones, but still feels robust. It looks very modern and professional too, and if you only have the Sennheiser name on the side, it's very believable. It may sound strange, but that's a big deal.

How does it sound

I recorded audio with the Sennheiser MKE 400 outside when I was walking around and inside when I was sitting, in the car and in other relatively noisy environments. I connected it to an iPhone 12 Pro using the included 3.5mm cable and a Lightning dongle. It performed very well at all times, but most of all, it's a huge improvement over the audio recordings you would get if you just used the built-in mic or other cheaper mics.

The most obvious difference is the drastic reduction in background and ambient noise. The MKE 400 records your voice clearly and still picks up just the right amount of ambient noise. For example, if you are recording while taking an early morning walk, the microphone will still record the sounds of the surrounding forest for a natural, pleasant tone that accurately captures your surroundings without overwhelming your voice.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Plus, my voice sounds less artificial and removes the echo and harshness you get from the iPhone 12 Pro's microphone. I also compared it to a Rode SmartLav + lavalier microphone and again there was much less background noise and echo. Outside, it works well at about a meter to two meters away, provided you are facing the general direction of the microphone. It also records well when you are behind the microphone, as long as you are not too far away. In a moving car there is a little more echo behind the microphone, but since the ambient noise is minimized, the recording is not ruined.

The downsides are learning how to get the most out of the MKE 400. While it's not particularly complicated, there are a ton of trial and error that can't really be found with a simple plug-in lavalier microphone. For example, the volume is pretty low at the normal setting. In order to hear them well during playback on the iPhone, the volume must be around 75%. There is three-stage gain control, but setting this to the high level increases the overall noise, so there is a tradeoff between recording from further away and introducing more ambient noise.

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The headphone jack on the microphone body lets you hear what is being recorded, which helps to a certain extent. This is difficult when you are alone and want to check the distance record, for example. I don't think the MKE 400 requires any experience or knowledge at a professional level, but I think you need patience and a willingness to learn about sound recording in order to get the most out of it.

The use of the Sennheiser MKE 400 has been approved. I'm used to recording with a wired lavalier mic and it's great not to have to worry about the cord. I also hate that I forgot to turn the microphone back on when I have to move away from the camera, which you won't worry about with the MKE 400. The sound quality is great too. It also works with the camera or voice recorder app and, if necessary, with a DSLR. Hence, it is hard to imagine that you would wish for much else.

Price and availability

The Sennheiser MKE 400 Mobile Kit costs $ 230 or £ 200. It is now available from Sennheiser's own online shop or from other Sennheiser dealers.

Our opinion

The Sennheiser MKE 400 Mobile Kit is a comprehensive, high quality and easy to use sound recording system for your phone. While it's made for a smartphone, don't think that it is fundamental as all of the features here will help you capture the best possible audio with your smartphone.

Sennheiser's decision to make it a full kit is inspired because you don't have to buy anything else. Hence, it's ideal for anyone just starting out or looking to upgrade from a more basic setup. Even so, performance is not straightforward, and the audio quality is a huge improvement over your phone's built-in microphone and even over competent lavalier microphones.

The versatility means it is suitable for handheld shooting facing the camera, desktop use, outdoor shooting, and even in noisy environments like the inside of a moving car – all without wires or a wireless bluetooth connection. It's not cheap, but the price reflects the capability, quality, and welcome simplicity of the overall package.

Is there a better alternative?

There are several different shotgun microphones that will work with your smartphone, but very few come with the accessories that the MKE 400 Mobile Kit offers. The prices also vary widely. This comica kit with a wireless microphone system is $ 170 while Rode's VideoMic camera mount kit is $ 147. A good lavalier microphone like the Rode SmartLav + costs around $ 90, and the Audio Technica ATR3350xiS microphone costs around $ 35.

All of them can pick up audio better than the built-in microphone in your phone. However, before you decide on a microphone, consider how and where you want to record. Sennheiser is never the cheapest brand, but quality is almost always guaranteed.

How long it will take?

The components contained in the mobile kit are robust and robust. They are mainly made of different metals, with only the base of the microphone being made of plastic. The universal 3.5mm headphone jack for connecting the microphone to your phone requires a dongle if it does not have the appropriate port. So make sure you have one on hand. No apps need to be installed and no firmware needs to be updated. The MKE 400 will last for years if handled well.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It is all you need to greatly enhance the audio recorded by your smartphone.

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30 Apr
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How to Do Squats : The Ultimate Guide

A squat is considered a strength exercise in which you squat with your knees. The back of your knees should almost be in contact with your bum, or you can squat and then stand up again. This can also be done with weights or dumbbells. Squats work your lower body muscles – quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, gluteus maximus, minimus, medius, as well as your core muscles – spinae, obliques, rectus abdominis. Squats strengthen your body and your body's strengths, burn calories, lower the risk of injury, and many more functions.

Below is the ultimate guide to Doing squats right, It will add strength to your body!

Here's how to do squats efficiently and appropriately:

Below are some steps that will get you to ass squats in no time!

Directions:

1. You must be comfortable doing this exercise. Therefore, I would advise you to choose a foot position that you can easily perform. If you are unsure whether the view you have chosen is perfect for the exercise, you can stand by holding your feet shoulder-width apart. However, always remember that your feet should be pointing outwards at least 15 degrees.

2. Tighten your abs like someone is punching you. Always remember to look ahead and stand still and straight.

The above steps provide the starting position for performing squats.

3. As you squat, you should bend your knees and make sure your bum is moving backwards. Keep your knees aligned with your toes. All of the bends and squats associated with it affect the lower part of your body. Your upper body should remain calm and straight at all times.

4. Bend down slowly, observing the points above. When you are bent, return to the starting position.

To repeat.

Services:

1. Strengthens your lower body muscles

If you practice this exercise almost regularly, you will increase your energies and strengthen the level to a great extent. Once you become familiar with this exercise, you will find that you can lift heavy things and bend them a lot with ease.

2. Reduces the risk of injury

When you include squats in your daily workout, you can step up your bones, tissues, and ligaments, which in fact helps to greatly reduce the risk of injury.

3. Useful in burning calories

Performing this exercise is really useful in burning off any extra calories in your body as it is a high intensity exercise that involves compound movements.

4. Strengthens the core of your body

Another reason you should include squats in your workout is because it strengthens your core muscles. Tight and powerful core muscles improve your posture, maintain body balance, and make activities such as twisting, lifting, and bending much easier.

Mistakes To Avoid While Squatting

1. You should always do some warm-up exercises before doing any squats, as this will increase your body's heart rate and temperature, and mobilize your muscle joints. Exercise without a warm-up can lead to injury and must therefore be done at all costs.

2. You should always finish a squat as it will prevent you from getting its full benefits and increase the risk of injury if you don't finish it.

3. You should always keep your upper body still and straight when squatting as this will allow you to take full advantage of this workout.

frequently asked Questions

1. How many squats should I do each day?

It depends on your body capacity. However, it is always recommended to start with three sets of 2 to 15 repetitions per day.

2. Is it okay to do squats every day?

Of course, you can crouch down every day, and this will only prove to be beneficial for your body.

3. Does Squat Reduce Thigh Fat?

Yes, squats effectively reduce the fat that has accumulated in your thighs as they mainly work the lower part of your body.

30 Apr
Blog

Spa Treatments For Men: How To Bring In New Clients

Men's interest in their overall health and wellbeing is growing, and the spa is an important part of it – whether it is relaxing, self-medication, or taking care of their skin with the occasional professional facial. In the past, spa treatments were mainly marketed to women. But the idea that only women are interested in the spa is out of date and, frankly, a little short-sighted. If you are a spa professional, it may be time to learn how to bring men and clients with masculine identities into your spa space to increase your bottom line. Let's explore the ideal men's spa day treatments and find out what makes an extraordinary experience.

Are Men Interested in Spa Treatments?

Are you limiting your spa's customer base by not targeting men? According to ISPA's Consumer Snapshot Study, almost half of all spa visitors are men, at 49% (up from 29% in 2005). If your clientele doesn't, you could be missing out on a huge slice of a lucrative cake.

Health and wellness are not just for women – and men know it! Spa treatments are a great way for men to get into this self-care. Indeed, ISPA President Lynn McNees says the desire to relieve or reduce stress is the number one reason people visit a spa – regardless of gender. How can you attract more men to your spa?

4 Ways To Attract Men To Your Spa

1. Create a sense of belonging

According to ISPA's Consumer Snapshot 2016, men visit a spa less often if they are unfamiliar with or uncomfortable with the spa environment. There are several ways that you can help men feel welcome at your spa. First, examine your spa atmosphere and ask yourself who it might appeal to. Do your space, treatment menu, and marketing target all genders? If not, it might be time for an update. American Spa's 2020 Trend Report lists “gender neutral” skin care as one of the top trends of the year. And this category will only keep growing!

To capitalize on this development, consider swapping out an overly or traditionally gendered decor in your space and opting for a clean, modern aesthetic that feels inviting to everyone. It is also a good idea to replace the gendered language in your marketing communications with a more universal and gender neutral language.

Another option is to segment your email list to target specific demographics in your customer base. For example, Dori Soukup told by InSPAration Management DAY WELLNESS Magazine: "You should approach men separately for certain promotions." She suggests segmenting your email database so that you can target men and women separately, but also group them all together in your broader marketing newsletter if needed.

Man gets a facial massage

2. Let customers know what to expect

Another way to create the ultimate men's spa day is to give clear directions and let them know what to expect. For anyone new to the spa experience, a little extra communication goes a long way in helping them relax. That is why they came to you in the first place! DAYSPA Magazine suggests "easing the fear of the first time beforehand by answering questions beforehand about what to expect during your spa visit". For example, make sure you have clear, concise descriptions of each service on your spa menu or website. Posting spa etiquette guidelines in waiting areas or locker rooms can also help.

Finally, make sure your beauticians give clear instructions on how to prepare their clients for a treatment. This includes keeping customers informed throughout the service and even explaining what to do when they leave the room. We promise – it is better to provide too much information than not enough!

3. Make participation in the spa and booking convenient

To encourage men to visit your spa, remove any barriers (mental or physical) that cause them to take a break. Spa owner Tracy Whynot says DAYSPA that comfort is important for men who visit their spa. Think of: simple online booking systems, introductory skin care options, a men’s specific service menu or pre-set spa packages for men to avoid overwhelming choices. Convenient services will remove potential barriers and allow a new spa-customer relationship to grow and prosper.

4. Customize your spa treatments

Like all customers, men want their spa and facial treatments to be tailored to their individual skin problems! And while many of men's skin care needs are the same as women's (we see them every day, SPF!), There are some differences. For example, men's skin tends to be thicker and produce more sebum (oil) than women's skin. This means they can usually handle more physical exfoliation and may be the reason why men often prefer lighter moisturizers.

Not to mention the fact that facial hair requires special care and maintenance, regardless of whether the man is shaving or not. Because of this, it is a good idea to offer a wide range of skin care treatments and product options to help solve any skin problems you may encounter. Because, as American Spa puts it, "The truth is, we all need to take care of our skin regardless of gender."

Customer loyalty

Now that you have these welcoming strategies for attracting men to your spa, how do you keep them long term? The good news is that the most effective way to retain new customers who are men is the same way to retain every customer: providing a great experience. Still not quite sure what men want? Just ask! After all, loyalty is about getting to know your customers as individuals (regardless of gender) in order to successfully address their underlying needs and skin issues. Chat with customers face-to-face or send an occasional customer feedback survey if you have an email database. This may help you learn more about the needs of all of your customers!

Looking For Skin Care For Men? Browse our curated selection of skin care products. Learn How to Become an Eminence Organics Spa Affiliate for Award-Winning Education.

29 Apr
Blog

How to do a Diamond Push-up and It’s Benefits

Push-up has always been a classic bodyweight exercise that doesn't require any equipment. There are many variations of push-up to target different muscles. Diamond Push is nothing more than a push-up variant that mainly targets the triceps. This variation is one of the most difficult variations of pushups. Your triceps must already be active to perform these push-ups like a pro.

Benefits of Diamond Push-Up

  • It's an effective bodyweight exercise for your arms that focuses primarily on the triceps muscle.
  • It improves the size and strength of the triceps.
  • At the same time, it burns the chest while the chest is secondarily locked into place when performing a diamond push-up.
  • Last but not least, it doesn't require any equipment and can be done anywhere.

REQUIREMENTS

A full body heat is always recommended to improve performance and prevent injuries.

Triceps pushups or diamond pushups are counted in the difficult category. Therefore, it is always recommended to start slowly with 2-3 repetitions.

First, treat yourself to a classic / simple push-up to achieve the arm strength required for a diamond push-up.

HOW TO PRESS A DIAMOND

Attitude: Acquire a push-up position. Make sure to keep your hands under your chest. Make a diamond shape with your hands by touching your thumbs and forefingers (<>) like this.

The movement: Bend your elbows and pull your body down until your chest hits the floor. Slide back into the stance. This is a repetition.

Tip: Keep your core tight and your back straight throughout the exercise. If you find it hard, take it slowly. Do 2-3, then slowly increase the number of repetitions over time.

Variation: To make a diamond push-up easier, place your legs on your knees instead of your toes to reduce the arm strength required for a diamond push-up.

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