Acquired Taste

It seems like everyone and their mothers are getting into a health kick. Who can blame them? The pandemic has shown us just how precious—and fragile—life is, and that we should do our best to keep our bodies healthy. We are conscious of the fact that 150 minutes of exercise per week is required to stay fit. Now, 20 minutes on the treadmill per day doesn’t sound too bad, especially with all the Netflix and Disney+ shows you can watch to kill time! 

Now, onto the 13 items you need to stay healthy! 

1. Under Armour’s UA Mask

Unlike your typical cloth face masks, this is made for exercise. The UA mask is designed to sit off of the face and lips to maximise breathability. The material is given an antimicrobial treatment so that the inner layer of the mask can stay fresh all workout long. 

While the mask features a built-in UPF 50+ sun protection, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor workouts. Just be sure to keep socially distanced—the mask is non medical.

2. Nike Free Metcon 4 and Adidas Ultraboost DNA 1.0

If you think being locked indoors is an excuse to lounge around all day, think again. Throw on a pair of trainers and tune in to your favourite YouTube workout videos. The Nike Free Metcon 4 combines flexibility with stability so you can get the best out of your training. 

The Adidas kicks, on the other hand, are a throwback to the OG pair. They feature the same knit pattern used in the very first Ultraboosts from 2015. While they carry the DNA of performance running, this rendition of the Ultraboosts performs wonderfully well for indoor training.

3. Fitbit Sense and Apple Watch Series 6

Doesn’t every workout feel that much more worth it when you can actually measure the effect of your efforts? The Fitbit Sense is an advanced health smartwatch that helps you tune in to your body with tools for stress management, heart health and more. 

On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 6 is in a league of its own. With the ability to measure your blood oxygen level, you can get better insights into your body’s wellbeing. 

4. NordicTrack X32i Incline Treadmill

This treadmill will literally take you places. The iFit integration is an incline/decline feature within the treadmill, and it syncs with the elevations and dips of the terrain you choose to explore through the iFit’s Google Maps app. Pair that and a documentary on TV, and you can virtually experience the routes in Africa, the Americas, or Asia! 

5. Glasses

Your eyes need caring too! Working indoors does not make it any easier for the eyes. Featured here are two pairs that will save those lookers from further strain. For those rare outings—because you should be staying indoors when possible—, we have the Coach sunglasses that will add just the right amount of emphasis to your outfit. 

And for the days where you’ll be toiling away behind a screen, protect them with your prescription lenses, framed with this beautiful Prada pair. 

6. Lululemon Stash It Bra

If there ever is such a thing as a smart sports bra, this is it. Lululemon’s most advanced creation features clever storage options to hot items like a small towel or your t-shirt—for when the training sessions get hot—and a back pocket to keep small essentials on you. 

No more flailing headphone cords either, with loops securing them onto you. All these new features come with the same sweat-wicking fabric that all Lululemon lovers have come to know and love! 

7. Gymshark Training 7/8 Leggings

There is no such thing as a limit when it comes to owning leggings. If you’re always on the lookout for the next best thing, give these a spin. 

Cropped at that perfect in-between length, these don’t have a front seam that has been the culprit of one too many wardrobe faux pas. 

8. Rockay Water Bottle

Your water bottle game is about to get a (green) upgrade. Rockay is acing at the sustainability game. They are using recycled stainless steel to craft the bottle body, recycled plastic for the lid and 100% recycled cardboard for the packaging. For every bottle purchased, the brand removes about 700g of plastic trash (about 77 water bottles) from the ocean. 

It’s not only good for the planet; the bottle performs well too, with the ability to keep cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 hours. 

9. Puma Gym Training Duffel Bag

For the days that you can have a quick workout session at the gym, pack your essentials in this no-nonsense gym bag. With enough storage to pack everything in this list (except the treadmill, of course), you won’t be running out of space anytime soon.

10. Supergoop! Play Everyday Sunscreen Lotion 

This is perhaps one of the most important things on this list. Supergoop! is one of the most renowned brands when it comes to sun protection. While they have a plethora of sunscreen options—we’re talking more than 50 variations—the PLAY sunscreen is always a good standard to turn to. With broad spectrum SPF 50 PA++++, you’re getting pretty much the best level of sun protection out there, on top of their light and lotiony texture that absorbs seamlessly into the skin. 

Did we mention that it’s water and sweat resistant too?  

11. Blackmores Turmeric Curcumin Capsules

You’ve probably heard of the benefits of turmeric, but did you know that it is especially effective when you’re taking its most active compound, curcumin? According to an article from Healthline, it has a powerful anti-inflammatory quality, and is a very potent antioxidant. 

While taking turmeric in your meals is highly recommended, there is simply not enough curcumin when used as a spice. That’s why this supplement is the way to go, and according to this study, the compound can reduce muscle damage and soreness following vigorous exercise. It essentially allows you to cheat the pain away! A shorter recovery period means you get to stay consistent too.