Actor Dakota Johnson felt "creative" and "inspired" while on the set of her directorial debut 'Loser Baby'. She thought the reason behind all this energy was her focus at work, but in reality, it was happening due to an unconscious daily caffeine overdose. How unconsciously? Dakota shared her hilarious experience in a recent interview with Variety. The 'Fifty Shades of Grey' actor revealed that she was regularly consuming a drink which she thought had vitamins, but turns out it was an energy drink, stronger than the popular beverage Red Bull.
Talking about the impact of unknowingly consuming excessive caffeine, Dakota shared, "I was like, 'I'm so creative, I'm so inspired, I'm awake all night long, I'm not sleeping, because I'm just thinking-and it's because I was having like two Celsius a day. I thought it was vitamins. I didn't realize I was basically overdosing on caffeine."
"'You're basically having, like, four Red Bulls a day,'" Dakota said of what Katie told her. Dakota joked that the drink did help her get through night shoots. She said, "But now I know that in dire straits, there's Celsius. And I am looking for an endorsement. So, Celsius, I'm your girl. Night shoots? They work really well."
'Loser Baby' is a short film which follows a queer woman whose circle of friends gets her wondering about the state of her relationship.
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Most of us get extra cautious when it comes to skincare and haircare. Whether it's buying the latest hair or skin products or trying remedies by watching videos on social media, we are always looking for better solutions. After all, who doesn't want their skin to have a natural glow and their hair to look like it just got a blowout? While serums and oils can surely help, you won't see the desired results if you lack collagen in your body. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and strength to the skin, hair, connective tissues, and organs. If your diet lacks collagen, you may not be able to achieve the skin and hair of your dreams. But how should one figure out if they need a collagen boost? Recently, nutritionist Simrun Chopra took to her Instagram handle to share three such telltale signs. Take a look. Also Read: Boost Your Skin Collagen Naturally! Try This 2-Ingredient Drink
Photo Credit: iStock
Here Are 5 Signs You Need More Collagen For Hair And Skin, According To The Nutritionist:
1. Wrinkles And Saggy Skin
Getting wrinkles and saggy skin are natural parts of ageing. However, if you start noticing them while you're still in your 30s or 40s, this could be a sign of collagen deficiency. Wrinkles and saggy skin occur when our skin loses elasticity, which happens when there is a lack of collagen in our body.
2. Hollows Around The Eyes
A diet lacking in collagen-rich foods can also result in the appearance of hollows around your eyes. As we all know, collagen gives strength and flexibility to our skin. Therefore, if you don't have enough collagen, the skin around your eyes becomes thinner and more translucent.
3. Muscle And Joint Pain
Have you been experiencing unexplained muscle and joint pain lately? Well, this could be an indicator of collagen deficiency. Low collagen levels can lead to bone or cartilage loss and even conditions like osteoarthritis.
4. Delayed Wound Healing
Delayed wound healing is another sign of a lack of collagen in your body. Collagen plays a vital role in healing as it encourages new collagen formation in the wound bed. So, if you're wondering why your wound is not healing, this could be the reason.
Now that you know the warning signs of collagen deficiency, you must be wondering how you can boost collagen production. Luckily, there are several foods that can help you achieve this. Amla (Indian gooseberry), fish, chicken, and milk are great options to incorporate into your diet. Additionally, you should also consume lots of vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, potatoes, and carrots. All of these are powerhouses of essential nutrients and aid in some way or another in the production of collagen. Click here for the list of collagen-rich foods.
Collagen is essential for the nourishment of our skin and hair. Make sure to incorporate it into your diet to keep both looking healthy.
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Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of our bodies. Deficiency of it can cause physical, psychological and mental symptoms that can affect your day-to-day life. Despite its importance, many people are unaware of just how easy it is to become deficient in this vitamin, especially if your diet lacks animal products. With time, this deficiency can sneak up on you, bringing with it a range of symptoms that can be confusing to identify. So, how do you know if you are running low on this nutrient? If you have this question on your mind, then read on to know 5 signs your body is low on vitamin B12. Also Read:Deficiency In B Vitamins Linked To Mental Illnesses In Adolescents: Preliminary Study
Photo Credit: Pexels
Why Is Vitamin B12 Important?
Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient that helps your body in several ways. It helps make your DNA and red blood cells. Moreover, it is also needed to develop your central nervous system – which comprises of your brain and spinal cord. Plus, it is important to keep your hair, nails and skin healthy. The trick part about this nutrient is that our body does not produce this naturally, so we need to have the right foods to meet our nutritional requirements.
Here Are 5 Signs You Vitamin B12 Deficiency In Your Body
1. Feeling Tired All The Time
One of the most common signs of vitamin B12 deficiency is that you will constantly feel tired. This happens because your body does not produce enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to your organs, which leads to constant tiredness. You may feel like you are fatigued throughout the day even though you have had a full night's sleep. If you are experiencing this, then it might be a sign that you are low on vitamin B12.
2. Tingling Sensation In Hands And Feet
When your body is short of vitamin B12, you might feel a burning or a pin-and-needles sensation in your hands and feet. This is because this nutrient deficiency can damage the protective sheath that covers your nerves. As per a 2019 paper published in the Journal of Diabetes, diabetics who take metformin are at a higher risk of experiencing this tingling sensation.
3. Pale Skin
Another sign of B12 deficiency is pale and slightly yellow skin, which might appear as if you have jaundice. When you are low on B12, your body struggles to produce healthy red blood cells which leads to anaemia and makes your skin look pale, as per an article published in the National Library of Medicine. The result? Your skin loses its pinkish-red colour.
4. Depression and Mood Swings
If you have been feeling down or unusually irritated, it could mean more than just a bad day. When you are low on vitamin B12, it can increase the sulfur-containing amino acids in your body, which in turn contributes to the development of depression. So, if your mood has been all over the place, it might be due to vitamin B12 deficiency in your body.
5. Brain Fogging
Struggling to remember minute details from everyday life? Then it might be due to vitamin B12 deficiency. Since vitamin B12 directly impacts your brain and central nervous system, its deficiency may make you feel light-headed and foggy in the brain. If you have been consistently having memory issues, it could be a sign that your body is not getting enough B12 to function normally.
How To Tackle Vitamin B12 Deficiency Naturally?
As mentioned previously, our bodies don't produce vitamin B12 nutrients, so it is important to have foods and drinks to meet our daily requirements. Here are some easy tips to handle this deficiency naturally:
1. Eat More Vitamin B12 Rich Foods
The easiest way to incorporate vitamin B12 nutrients into your diet is by eating foods rich in this. Add animal-based foods like eggs, fish, and dairy products to your everyday meals. If you are a vegetarian, include options like paneer, yoghurt, fortified foods, mushrooms, etc. to meet your B12 needs.
2. Add Nutritional Yeast To Your Diet
Nutritional yeast is a popular vitamin B12 source if you are a vegan. Its versatility and cheesy flavour make it a versatile addition to soups, salads and even pasta.
3. Take A B12 Supplement
If you are struggling to get enough B12 through food, supplements could be practical. However, consult your doctor first before you take them.
4. Focus On Gut Health
Good gut health is important for absorbing vitamin B12 efficiently. Add probiotic foods like curd in your diet to have a healthy and happy digestive system.
Many food products like plant-based milks, cereals, etc. are fortified with vitamin B12. These foods are especially beneficial for vegetarians and vegans and could help meet your dietary requirements.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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The Balvenie is a revered Scotch whisky brand with lore stretching back to 1892. That’s the year when industry legend William Grant set out to build his dream distillery alongside the 13th century castle that ultimately lent the liquid its name.
Balvenie is a Scottish word for “village of luck,” which is highly appropriate considering the depth of fortune you’ll need to get your hands on its latest release: a 50-year-old single cask as rare as anything the distillery has ever unveiled before. We’ve procured a precious pour of the liquid to give you a preview of what awaits under the cork.
The Balvenie Fifty Collection launches this month, the first in a trilogy of half-century-old single malts set to arrive over the next three years. A scant 125 bottles are all we’ll ever see of each, globally. The First Edition is pulled entirely from a single European oak refill butt, initially filled in 1973. A sturdy decanter of the 104.6 percent ABV scotch is suggested to retail for a jaw-dropping $53,000. And since only 14 of them are earmarked for American shelves, it’ll likely fetch far more than that on secondary markets.
Cask number 8,720 was hand-selected by Balvenie malt master Kelsey McKechnie on account of its supernatural elegance and seductive complexity. It offers ample aromas of stone fruit upon first nosing. But after allowing it to sit in the snifter—for even a moment—the bouquet soon belongs to candied nut spice. The signature style of the malthouse involves honey, vanilla, and orchard fruit. When greeting the palate, this particular barrel dials all of those elements up to full volume before they fade into a subtle splash of citrusy bergamot.
Typically, to alchemize all these notes into a single expression, malt makers need to marry dozens—if not hundreds—of casks together in the vatting process. Here, McKechnie has found it all inside one auspicious vessel of liquid gold. It didn’t occur by accident.
“Each edition in this collection is a testament to the craftsmanship that has defined our liquid over the past 50 years,” she explains. “Using a refill butt for the First Edition provides us with a distinctive flavor thread that will run through our next two releases, demonstrating the spectrum of flavors and aromas in our aged spirit.”
The thick-gauged bottle rests in a pedestaled tube, composed of four layers of wood. It flaunts a helix structure, opening ever-so-slightly to hint at the treasure hidden within.
Though an impressive statement, it’s not nearly as over-the-top in its approach as we’ve seen from other ultra-rare releases over the last several years. The restraint signifies feature rather than flaw: Balvenie wants its liquid to do the talking.
Turn off your phones this weekend and plan a fun cooking activity for a memorable day. What to make? Chewing gum! Yes, this weekend, we're putting on our aprons to create something sweet and fun. While there might not be much excitement around store-bought chewing gum, the opposite is true when you make it yourself at home from scratch. Call your friends or cousins and get ready to make some chewing gum! Also, ask them to bring along some snacks, as this recipe is just for fun and not for eating.
What Is Chewing Gum Made Of?
Chewing gum is a soft, stretchy, and flexible substance designed to be chewed without being swallowed. The first gums were made from tree sap. However, modern chewing gum consists of gum base, sweeteners, softeners, flavours, colours, and a hard or powdered coating. The ingredients in chewing gum are generally considered safe. Also Read: 6 Tips To Become A Fabulous Brunch Host
Can we make chewing gum at home? Absolutely! The process is fun and exciting. Read on to learn.
Photo Credit: iStock
How To Make Chewing Gum At Home | Chewing Gum Easy Step-By-Step Recipe
To make chewing gum at home, first, prepare the gum base mixture. Take a microwaveable bowl and add 1/3 cup of gum base, 1/4 tsp of citric acid, 1 tsp of glycerin, and 2 tbsp corn syrup. Microwave it for 1 minute. Stir the mixture after removing it from the microwave. The gum base should be melted, gooey, and sticky. Add 5-7 drops of flavouring to the gum base (traditional bubblegum, chocolate, vanilla, or any other flavour) and mix well.
Next, take a cutting board and pour 1/2 cup of powdered sugar onto it. Make a hole in the centre of the pile. Coat your fingers with a little powdered sugar and add the gum mixture to the sugar. Now, knead them together for 20-30 minutes.
Once the gum is ready, roll it into a rope and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Your chewing gum is ready! Wrap each piece in wax paper or store them in a resealable plastic bag.
Try this chewing gum recipe at home and share your fun experiences in the comments section. Happy weekend!
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Soft, fluffy, and perfectly steamed - that's exactly how we like our idlis. This South Indian classic is a breakfast staple, best enjoyed with sambar or chutney. But have you ever thought of relishing idli in the form of a pakoda? At first, the idea of idli pakoda may sound strange, but trust us, the results will spellbind you. We recently came across a video on Instagram that shows the making of stuffed idli pakoda. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this unique culinary creation is sure to win your heart. The fact that it's stuffed makes it even more delicious. The recipe for this pakoda was shared by the page @chieffoodieofficer. Check it out below: Also Read: Got Leftover Idlis? Transform Them Into These Delectable Curd Idlis (Recipe Inside)
What Makes Stuffed Idli Pakoda So Unique?
This snack combines the goodness of idli and pakoda - all in one. The idli is stuffed with a spicy potato mixture, dipped in a besan slurry, and deep-fried to perfection. The result is a unique snack that'll leave you craving more. Whether as an evening snack or a party starter, it's a stellar treat to enjoy on any occasion.
What To Serve With Stuffed Idli Pakoda?
Unlike regular idlis that are typically enjoyed with coconut chutney, these pakodas taste best when served with pudina chutney. Its spicy flavour complements the idli pakodas well. If you prefer something milder, you can even pair them with tomato ketchup.
How To Make Stuffed Idli Pakoda | Stuffed Idli Pakoda Recipe
To make stuffed idli pakoda at home, you'll need just a handful of ingredients and 15 minutes of your time. Here are the steps:
Mash It Up
Start by mashing boiled potatoes in a large bowl. To this, add chopped onions, bell peppers, coriander leaves, salt, pepper, jeera powder, and chaat masala.
Prepare A Slurry
For the slurry, add besan (gram flour) and salt to a bowl. Gradually add water and whisk well to form a smooth, silky slurry.
Time To Assemble
Now, slit all the idlis from the centre and stuff them with the prepared potato mixture. Press them slightly to ensure everything stays in place.
After watching this video, we're sure you'll be craving these unique pakodas. Try making them at home and enjoy them during your next snacking session.
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Beam Distilling just announced a new innovation from its esteemed Booker's label: Booker's Bourbon The Reserves.
It's the very first edition of a soon-to-be annual release made by eighth generation master distiller Freddie Noe to commemorate his grandfather and the label's namesake Booker Noe.
"Liquid like this can take awhile to find, but when I do, it feels like the big man himself picked them out," Freddie said in a press release. "It's just the kind of bourbon I believe my granddaddy would be making if he were still alive with us now."
Although the release is an ode to Booker, this whiskey has Freddie's fingerprints all over it. While experimenting with different liquids and barrels in the Fred B. Noe Distillery on the James B. Beam campus in Clermont, KY, one word kept coming to Freddie's mind: scraps. With so many barrels sitting around, he decided to meld the best flavor possible with what already existed.
Freddie Noe testing blends in the Fred B. Noe Distillery in Clermont, KY.
Courtesy Image
Freddie hand-picked eight lots of barrels from across the distillery of the following ages and warehouses:
Eight years, two months, 12 days on the fourth floor of warehouse G
Eight tears, five months, 19 days on the fifth floor of warehouse I
Eight years, five months, 20 days on the fifth floor of warehouse Z
Nine years, two months, three days on the fifth floor of warehouse Q
Nine Years, two months, four days on the sixth floor of warehouse J
Nine Years, five months, 18 days on the seventh floor of warehouse H
10 Years, three months, two days on the fourth floor of warehouse X
14 Years, four months, 16 days on the sixth floor of warehouse I
I got a first taste of the bourbon while sitting across from Freddie in the Noe Distillery tasting room. The whiskey had notes of dried fruit and brown sugar on the nose. When I sipped, classic yet complex notes of vanilla and charred oak spread across my palate. Once swallowed, a long, lingering finish left notes of baking spice on my tongue.
Although it's a hot whiskey—125.9 proof—it was well-rounded and smooth. Freddie credits that lack of burn to picking barrels from the middle three floors of each warehouse, the "sweet spot" as his grandfather Booker would say.
The final bourbon blend, Freddie told me, is more like a baked potato than a steak. When you cook a steak on the grill, he says, you get a different texture outside versus inside. But when you bake a potato, you get a consistent texture all the way through.
"These barrels had a very nice, even, uniform aging process to develop that unique flavor," he told me.
Booker's Bourbon The Reserves is bottled at 62.95 percent ABV and will be available across the U.S. at $130 MSRP for a 750mL bottle in a commemorative wooden box.
It's not the only innovative bourbon Freddie released this year. He also created the first edition of Little Book The Infinite, a new annual release that started as four whiskeys blended together: one aged by his grandfather Booker, one by his father Fred, one by Freddie himself, and one that all three had a hand in. For each subsequent year, Freddie will fold in a new whiskey, slightly changing the flavor profile as the years go on.
The purchase, which Jost called “absolutely the dumbest and least thought-through purchase I've ever made in my life," came as something of a surprise to Johansson despite her husband’s claim that he “soft-floated” the idea prior to purchase.
"She was just like, 'Wait, so you own this boat now?' Very fair question," Jost said of Johansson’s initial reaction. After shelling out a combined $280,000 for the boat, Jost, Davidson, and their co-investor, Paul Italia, were flummoxed about what to do with it. Earlier this month, it was announced as the location for Tommy Hilfiger’s 2024 fashion show. The trio of owners are mulling several uses for the ferry, including a hotel with several restaurants.
Johansson has somewhat softened to the purchase now that there’s a tangible use for it, even giving her husband some advice from her own career with the hope that the Staten Island Ferry will be more than a footnote in Jost and Davidson’s careers.
"She now obviously sees the value in it,” Jost reported, “but also I think she's like, 'It's now become something that is a defining thing for you guys and an interesting thing for you guys. So you should take it seriously and figure out the best version of it, because for better or worse, it's going to reflect on you.'”
But Jost admits he and Davidson have been slow to absorb Johansson’s advice. “We don't care,” he said, “because we're comedians."
The handoff of the Olympic flag from one host city to the next is an integral part of every Olympic closing ceremony. This year, Tom Cruise was a part of the festivities as he helped bring the flag from Paris to Los Angeles in high-flying Hollywood fashion. His payday for the stunt, however, wasn't as impressive.
Entertainment executive and LA28 president and chairperson Casey Wasserman explained how the pre-filmed segment came together in a CNBC x Boardroom panel on Sept. 10. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Wasserman revealed that Cruise jumped at the opportunity (no pun intended) to jump off the Stade de France in Paris.
"We pitched on a Zoom, and the original idea was a person in the stadium as a stunt double," Wasserman detailed. "We’re like, 'Well, there’s no way we’re getting this. We’re going to get four hours of filming time. We’ll do the thing [in] L.A. with the Hollywood Sign, he’ll hand the thing off and he’s done. Maybe we’ll get the other stuff and the rest will be just a stunt double.'"
Cruise was thrilled about the idea but had one condition. "About five minutes into the presentation [Cruise] goes, 'I’m in. But I’m only doing it if I get to do everything,'" Wasserman recounted.
On top of doing his own stunts, Cruise, as well as everyone else involved in the project, did it all for free.
It's not the only high-profile gig to famously not pay a single cent. Performers at the Super Bowl halftime show every year don't earn a penny for their work and are instead, like Cruise, paid in unmatched exposure to hundreds of millions of people around the world.
Cooking is a total art form, and spices are like the magic wand that makes any dish pop. Back in the day, we cooked everything on the stove, but now, we've got all kinds of cool gadgets and techniques at our fingertips. Whether it's steaming, baking, or microwaving, the options are endless. But let's talk grilling. There's just something about the smoky flavour of grilled chicken, meat, and veggies that hits differently. It's all about that charred perfection! If you've ever wondered how to get it just right, don't sweat it. We've rounded up some awesome tips to help you nail the grilling game every single time.
Here Are 6 Genius Tips For Perfect Grilling Every Time:
1. Clean That Grill!
Before you start grilling, make sure your grill is clean. Leftover bits from your last cookout can stick and mess up your food. Use a grill brush or crumpled aluminium foil to give the grates a good scrub. It's a small step that makes a big difference.
2. Preheat Like a Pro
Avoid food sticking to the grill by preheating it for 10-15 minutes. This ensures it's hot and ready, giving your food those perfect sear marks. Tip: Keep the lid closed while it heats up!
3. Oil It Up, Safely
Spraying oil directly on a hot grill can be risky. Instead, apply a little oil to a paper towel and use tongs to wipe it over the grates. This method keeps things safe and helps prevent sticking.
4. Room Temp Is Key
Let your meat or chicken come to room temperature before grilling. This helps it cook evenly and get that delicious grilled flavour throughout.
5. Veggie Grilling 101
Grilling veggies? Skewer them to keep them from falling through the grates. Cut them into large chunks and use tongs to flip them. This makes grilling easier and keeps your hands safe from the heat.
6. Charcoal Grill Basics
If you're using a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until they're covered in grey ash. This means they're at the right temperature and ready for grilling. No one wants food that tastes like burnt charcoal!
Keep these tips in mind for your next BBQ, and you'll be grilling like a pro in no time!
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On Monday’s episode of The Drew Barrymore Show, Parenthood star Dax Shepherd got candid regarding headline-grabbing rumors that he and wife Kristen Bell are swingers.
“There was the most exciting tabloid story that we were Hollywood swingers and we hosted swing parties, this was in the tabloids,” Shepherd told Barrymore. The actor even revealed that some of their famous friends, including Jimmy Kimmel, have reached out to see if the stories are true.
“My favorite part of that happening was we got a lot of texts from other friends of ours saying, 'How could you not have invited me to the swinger party?'” the CHiPS star said.
Shepherd then recalled a humorous text he received from Kimmel, who was miffed he and his wife hadn’t gotten a call. “I just thought that was great to receive a text from Kimmel saying, ‘My feelings are quite hurt that Molly and I weren't invited to this swingers party."'
Surprisingly, the rumors seem to have started with Shepherd himself. During a 2016 stop on Conan O’Brien’s TBS talk show, the actor suggested that he and the host swap wives for an evening. A few months later, when Bell was on the show, O’Brien took the opportunity to ask her if she saw her husband’s indecent proposal.
“This sounds like my husband,” Bell responded. “I don’t want to hurt your feelings, but you’re not the first person he’s tried to get us to swing with,” she told O’Brien. “He just loves people. He loves the human frame and he constantly suggests at different dinner parties that we ‘hang out’ and ‘really get to know each other,'” Bell went on to clarify. “We’re not actually swinging with anyone.”
The couple jointly confirmed this on a 2023 episode of Shepherd’s Armchair Expert podcast. “It’s because you frequently make key party jokes,” Bell told her husband. “We’ll have a dinner party or something, and as we’re sitting down, you’ll say, ‘Everybody leave your keys.’”
Shepherd agreed he had, and admitted he’d made the same joke to “many of the guests” who’ve appeared on his podcast. “Some of them, I realize afterward, ‘Oh, we do not have the same sense of humor,’” he said. “I was like, ‘Hey, if you guys are ever in L.A. and you wanna swing.’”
Despite all that talk, though, Shepherd insisted to Barrymore that he and Bell are exclusive with one another. “There's a lot of hot couples out there,” he said, “but no, we have not crossed that divide with anyone.”
As a former New York native, I jumped at the opportunity to experience the global fitness phenomenon that is Hyrox when the Manhattan race date was slated for June 1. I didn't have many expectations when I set out on the 10-hour drive from my small town outside Charlotte, NC, to Hudson River Park's Pier 76, but the showing far surpassed any presumptions. Even at my 6:40p.m. start time, the pier was packed with spectators snaking around the course events to cheer on participants. In total, over 5,000 competitors ran, rowed, and lunged along the 5-acre pier.
From my time as a collegiate swimmer and competitive CrossFitter, I’ve experienced my fair share of high-caliber athletic events. I’ve watched CrossFit Games from the stands and tackled Spartan Races, Tough Mudders, and triathlons, but the Hyrox workout is completely new. Imagine a fitness competition with the vibes of a multi-day music festival. The atmosphere is kinetic, the camaraderie unmatched, and whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a fitness newbie, the Hyrox race offers one of the most fun and challenging hybrid competitions.
What Is Hyrox?
Founded in 2017 by Christian Toetzke—a veteran organizer of triathlon, marathon, and cycling races—and Moritz Furste—German field hockey player and three-time Olympic medalist—Hyrox is the sport of fitness racing. In just eight years, Hyrox has grown into a worldwide movement, hosting races in over 11 countries and 30 major cities, and attracting more than 100,000 participants each season. I had the opportunity to sit down with Christian Toetzke the day before the NYC Hyrox event to gain his insight into the fast-evolving sport.
Toetzke's vision for Hyrox was to, “create a mass participation workout experience that would bring an event culture to fitness.” He mentioned that, despite the hundreds of millions of people who attend a gym on a weekly basis, there was a noticeable lack of events catered to everyday athletes. Toetzke said Hyrox aims to fill this void by offering a “truly inclusive fitness event, consisting of workouts most people are already doing in the gym, but with a really massive feeling.”
Whatever you do, don't put the sandbag down. You'll incur a penalty.
Courtesy Image
Unlike CrossFit, Hyrox approaches the competition landscape from a running angle. Running has a low barrier to entry, most of us have done it recreationally (or competitively), and it keeps the event inclusive, Toetzke says. By sandwiching each functional movement with a 1K run, it acts as a physical reset (as much as running can be considered a "reset"), but also introduces a unique competition environment. It's not the strongest lifters coming out on top; in a way, this levels the playing field and gives endurance athletes an edge. Moreover, the exercises that comprise the Hyrox workout are specifically chosen to be more intuitive to participants.
"Everyone can push a sled," Toetzke elaborates. "You might not be fast, but you can’t really do something technically wrong.” This is in contrast to CrossFit's intricate, skill-based Olympic lifts like the snatch, which can make workouts feel daunting and less accessible.
All of these considerations led to the birth of Hyrox, a one-of-a-kind fitness spectacle featuring eight rounds of a 1K run followed by a unique workout station. Here's the Hyrox workout at a glance; also be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to the Hyrox workout for how-tos and expert tips.
Station 1: SkiErg
Station 2: Sled push
Station 3: Sled pull
Station 4: Burpee broad jumps
Station 5: Rowing
Station 6: Farmer’s carry
Station 7: Sandbag lunges
Station 8: Wall balls
One of the coolest things about the Hyrox workout is its consistency. The distance and order of movements are always the same, allowing you to compare your performance from race to race. Once you’ve done one event, you’ll know exactly what to expect in future races, which is a huge confidence booster. Plus, for elite athletes, this consistency allows you to see how you stack up on the global leaderboard.
Waves of athletes enter the competition floor every 10 minutes throughout the day, covering all divisions: open, pro, doubles, mixed doubles, weighted vest, and relay. Each participant has the opportunity to tailor their experience, making it as intense or as enjoyable as they desire.
Hyrox Divisions
Open: best for beginners
Pro: best for experienced racers
Weighted Vest: best for advanced racers looking for a challenge
Doubles: best for beginner and intermediate racers who want to split the workload with a same-sex partner
Mixed Doubles: best for beginner and intermediate racers who want to split the workload with a mixed-sex partner
Relay: groups who want to tag-team the event
Use straight arms or do like the pros do: Hug your arms around the sled's bars to take the strain off your shoulders.
Courtesy Image
What to Expect of Hyrox, From Registration to Race Day
Registration
Hyrox knows how to keep its athletes in the loop and hyped for race day. From the moment I signed up, I received regular emails. These went beyond basic logistics like hotel and transportation. They included everything from a Hyrox athlete guide (think rulebook) to a detailed venue map, motivational words of encouragement to discounts from supplement partners. By the time race day rolled around, I knew exactly when my heat would start, how the schedule would play out, and all the check-in details, leaving me fully prepared and ready to go.
Check-In
As I approached the venue, I heard the event before I saw it. Upon entering the gates, I was ushered to the check-in area to pick up my chip timer. Like a marathon or triathlon, the bracelet straps to your ankle to track split times. Hyrox advises participants show up at least 90 minutes before their start time. This gives you plenty of time to check in, warm up, and mentally prepare.
If you’re a first-timer like I was, I highly recommend getting there early to understand the event flow. Watching a few heats helped ease my nerves, and I quickly realized how intuitive the setup was. All the stations are clearly labeled, and a massive screen tracks your progress throughout the race. Since most venues don’t have a full 1,000-meter course, you’re likely to run two laps around the venue before heading into the Rox Zone, which is the transition area between your run and the next station.
As I navigated through throngs of cheering spectators, I stopped at the wall balls, the final station. This area, known as the “Thunder Dome,” was flanked by grandstands on either side, sardined with family members and friends waiting to see their athlete cross the finish line. At the center of it all was a Red Bull DJ truck that pulsed with a thundering bass. The DJ wasn’t just playing music, he was narrating the action, hyping up the crowd, and keeping energy levels sky-high from the first heat to the last, even announcing when notable figures like Lance Armstrong neared the finish. He counted down many athletes' final reps, urging them to empty the tank.
Vendors and Aid Stations
After tearing myself away from the wall ball station, I ventured into the vendor area. Here, companies like Gainful and PwrLift offered free samples to keep both athletes and spectators hydrated and fueled. Recovery stations equipped with zero gravity chairs and ice bath plunges provided athletes a chance to cool down and rejuvenate as temps soared. NYC was the first outdoor Hyrox event and the sun baked the semi-exposed pier.
If you plan to consume fuel mid-race, now's the time to do it.
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Hyrox Race: My Firsthand Experience
When the clock hit 6p.m., it was finally time to get moving. I headed to the athlete warmup area to clock a few minutes on the Concept 2 rower to get my heart rate up, followed by sled push and pulls to get a feel for the weight. The men’s Pro Division sled push was no joke at 202 kilograms (about 445 pounds). Fortunately, I managed to get it moving, assuring myself that once I hit the competition floor, the crowd’s energy would keep me going. I wrapped up my warmup with a few sandbag lunges and burpee broad jumps. With 15 minutes to spare, I hydrated, tucked an energy gel into my pocket (planning to consume it on the rower), and mentally prepared for what lay ahead.
Five minutes before my heat, I checked in at the start line, an inflatable tunnel where athletes gather before the race. Inside, a Hyrox team member was firing everyone up, encouraging sportsmanship, and reminding us all to enjoy the experience. As the clock counted down from 60 seconds, the tunnel grew quiet, and I could hear people taking deep breaths and readying themselves for the race. At 10 seconds, a few athletes started pushing toward the front. I hung back, letting the superstars lead the charge—after all, the race doesn’t officially start for you until your chip timer crosses the line.
3, 2, 1, go!
The crowd cheered as the first heat of the men’s Pro Division took off, and I began my first 1,000-meter run. I tempered the urge to push the pace, merging with runners from other heats. This felt a bit chaotic, but Hryox has everything down to a science. You'll always have a spot when you enter a new station.
Station 1
After two laps around the venue, I entered the 1,000m ski. This was familiar territory for me—something I regularly do at my CrossFit gym—so I pushed hard and caught up with the lead pack. One thing I noticed as soon as the race started was that all of the top Hyrox athletes are phenomenal runners. They push the pace on runs, which makes up the majority of the race, while I had to rely on my strength in the stations. My strategy worked well enough for my goals and ability level, but if you want to be a serious contender, you'll need to prioritize running in your training—and lots of it.
With the SkiErg done, I got the nod from my judge, and navigated through the “Rox Zone Out” arch, careful to exit through the correct inflatable to avoid penalties. Your chip timer tracks everything, so staying on course is crucial, but I promise the course layout is intuitive and easy to navigate.
Station 2
Next up was the sled push—445 pounds over four laps. I felt confident and powered through, later discovering it was my best station, ranking 14th out of 100+ men in the Pro Division. This is just an example of the precise stats Hyrox sends you after the event, allowing you to see your exact splits at each station, the amount of time you spent in the Rox Zone, and the time it took each run.
Pro tip: Don't let the rope pool and coil at your feet. You increase your odds of tripping over it.
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Station 3
I headed out for another run, still feeling good, and arrived at the sled pull. There’s a box your feet must stay inside of or you may be hit with a penalty. The box does have some room to it, which allows you to grab the rope and walk the sled back a few steps. I recommend this strategy so you’re not just pulling hand over hand, exclusively using your arms.
Station 4
The next run led to 80m burpee broad jumps, which I found to be the hardest station on the course. This movement just crushes your legs, however, once done, you’re officially halfway through the race.
Station 5
Station five is the 1,000m row and the only time you’ll have a chance to sit during the Hyrox race. This is when I’d recommend consuming any intra-workout nutrition you plan on using like an energy gel or sports drink. Note that Hyrox does have a hydration station in the Rox Zone with Gatorade and water, and you can always grab a drink as you run by.
Station 6
Station six is the 200-meter kettlebell farmer's carry, which is quick but requires some grip strength. Do your best to hang on to the kettlebell as long as you can—ideally not stopping or setting them down. Keep your feet moving quickly.
Station 7
Legs leaden, lungs burning, I entered station seven, the 100-meter sandbag lunges. I heard the announcer mention we were an hour into the race. Every lunge felt brutal, but at this point you can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. You're not permitted to drop the sandbag during this event, even when you're in the Doubles division.
Station 8
The final run was a relief—I was almost done. After two laps, I entered station eight: 100 wall balls. I chipped away in sets of 10, making the final station feel endless, but I finally crossed the finish line. My smile beamed with pride just as my muscles swelled with lactic acid.
Author Pete Nastasi poses at Hyrox finish line.
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The Takeaway
If you asked me what the best part of a Hyrox race is, hands down it’s the camaraderie. From start to finish, fellow competitors exchanged high-fives, cheered each other on, and kept the energy high. The crowd, judges, DJ, and even random strangers were all incredibly supportive, making it one of the best fitness events I've been a part of. If you're on the fence about trying Hyrox, I can't recommend it enough.
FAQs
How Long Does a Hyrox Race Take?
A Hyrox race typically takes 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. While elite athletes can power through in less than an hour, others may take a bit longer, depending on their pace and overall fitness level. This timing is designed to push participants to their limits, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience that feels like a true accomplishment no matter where you finish.
How Long Should I Train for a Hyrox Race?
Training for a Hyrox race typically requires a solid six to eight weeks of preparation, depending on your current fitness level and experience with endurance events. This amount of time should be enough for you to build the endurance, strength, and technique needed to tackle the race’s unique combination of running and workout stations. Ideally, your training should consist of a mix of running, strength training, and specific Hyrox workouts to ensure you’re well-prepared for rest day.
To effectively train for a Hyrox race, you'll need a blend of standard workout gear and some specialized equipment. A quality pair of running shoes tops the list, as running makes up a significant portion of the race. Beyond that, you'll want to incorporate kettlebells (dumbbells will work fine for training), a wall ball, and cardio machines like a rower and SkiErg. Lastly, adding a sandbag, sled, and a rope for sled pulls will help you replicate the race's unique challenges. This combination of gear will ensure you're well-prepared to tackle every aspect of the Hyrox course. There are dedicated Hyrox partner gyms, but most boutique and big-box studios will have this equipment, too.
If you're building out your home gym, note Hyrox partnered with Centr, a fitness, nutrition, and mental wellness personal training app created in collaboration with Chris Hemsworth. Centr now supplies the competition-grade equipment, outside of the SkiErg and RowErg developed by Concept 2, for all Hyrox events, including wall balls, wall ball targets, sandbags, power ropes, power sleds, kettlebells, and bumper plates.
Centr x HYROX Octo Kettlebell
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Hyrox Anaheim Learnings
During the NYC event, I spoke with Andrew Sugerman, CEO of Centr, to chat about the new equipment. Sugerman’s initial experience with Hyrox was at the 2023 event held in Anaheim, CA, where he walked the floor to learn what was working and what wasn’t. Centr, in conjunction with HYROX, spent months to ideate and prototype new equipment to elevate performance.
“For these designs, we worked with some of Hyrox’s elite athletes like David [Magida, 2023 North American Champion] to ensure they'd work for the event,” Sugerman notes.
The prototyping paid off. For instance, the Centr Competition Power Sled features handles on both sides that come with a knurled texture, designed to keep your grip firm as you power through multiple rounds of sweaty sled pushes.
In addition, the Centr Competition Octo Kettlebell, designed for the farmer's carry station, features a flattened octagonal shape to minimize bumping against thighs. These innovative designs reflect the commitment of both Hyrox and Centr to delivering an exceptional and enjoyable race day for all participants.
Sugerman also hinted at some exciting behind-the-scenes developments for Centr’s fitness app in relation to Hyrox training.
He says to be on the lookout if you want to “analytically see where you’re at, and what you should prioritize in training” to excel in the sport.
Rangers at Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico were recently forced to deal with the repercussions of a tourist who carelessly dropped a bag of Cheetos in the underground chamber, which led to the entire ecosystem of the cave being thrown into upheaval.
Park officials released a statement on Facebook last Friday, explaining the unfortunate situation. "Here at Carlsbad Caverns, we love that we can host thousands of people in the cave each day," the post read. "Incidental impacts can be difficult or impossible to prevent. Like the simple fact that every step a person takes into the cave leaves a fine trail of lint."
However, the post added that other impacts are "completely avoidable," such as when a visitor dropped a full bag of the brightly orange-hued snacks in the Big Room of the caverns, which had a "huge impact" to the ecosystem of the cave. The 4,000 foot long, 625 foot wide, and 255 foot tall limestone chamber is the largest in the United States and the 32nd-largest in the world.
"The processed corn, softened by the humidity of the cave, formed the perfect environment to host microbial life and fungi," the post continued. "Cave crickets, mites, spiders and flies soon organize into a temporary food web, dispersing the nutrients to the surrounding cave and formations. Molds spread higher up the nearby surfaces, fruit, die and stink. And the cycle continues."
To deal with the impact, the post explained that rangers spent about 20 minutes carefully removing the foreign detritus and molds from the surfaces of the cave. It pointed out that while members of the fleeting ecosystem are cave-dwellers, many of the microbial life and molds are not.
"At the scale of human perspective, a spilled snack bag may seem trivial, but to the life of the cave it can be world changing," the post concluded. "Great or small we all leave an impact wherever we go. Let us all leave the world a better place than we found it."
In fact, on the National Park Service website, it is clearly stated that in order to protect the cavern and wildlife, consumption of any food or drink, with the exception of plain, unflavored water, is strictly prohibited. An underground rest area does feature a snack bar, however any food purchased must be consumed there.
In a follow-up post, park officials stressed the Leave No Trace policies to ensure that waste is disposed of properly. "Contrary to popular belief, the cave is NOT a big trash can," the post stated, adding that even then, rangers walk the trails and pick up waste left behind at the end of each day.
But while cleaning up after oneself is especially important at Carlsbad Caverns, the National Park Service highlights the importance of Leave No Trace principles at any of its parks, from minimizing campfire impacts to respecting wildlife.
Tom Brady kicked off his new broadcasting gig with NFL on Fox on Sunday, but the former star Patriots quarterback struggled to find his footing, if the reception from fans was any indication.
The 47-year-old made his debut alongside his new partner Kevin Burkhart for the Week 1 game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Cleveland Browns. But right off the bat, his delivery came off stilted and awkward, with clumsy pauses between words.
"We’re here, it’s been quite a journey, but I love being your partner,” Brady said after being introduced by Burkhart, before turning their attention to the respective team quarterbacks. "Dak [Prescott] signed the largest contract in the history of the NFL, now he's gotta go out there and earn it," he continued, stumbling over his words a few times.
Later, Brady managed to fumble a fist bump with longtime Fox Sports rules analyst Mike Pereira, who was occupied reviewing something on a screen in front of him. "Oh, don’t leave me hanging!” Brady exclaimed awkwardly, after several painful seconds in which he held his fist out.
Mike Pereira and Tom Brady's first booth interaction could have gone a little smoother... pic.twitter.com/RmJYFF1qQj
To be fair, it was only his first day on the job. But given Brady's hefty $375 million contract to provide lead color commentary—not to mention the fact that Burkhart's former partner, Greg Olsen, was bumped down to the number two team coverage to accommodate him—the reaction on social media was swift and merciless.
"I don't want to overreact to week 1 but Tom Brady is the worst announcer in the NFL," deadpanned one user, while another quipped: "Finally, something Tom Brady f--king sucks at."
I don't want to overreact to week 1 but Tom Brady is the worst announcer in the NFL.
Time will tell whether Brady manages to find his groove, or whether this will indeed end up being a costly mistake for Fox Sports. In either case, they're stuck with him now. Or, unless he decides to come out of retirement again, that is.
It was a happy ending for Tonka the chimp, focus of the HBO docuseries Chimp Crazy, which aired its final episode on Sunday night. The primate, who was bred for the entertainment industry, was finally taken to a wildlife sanctuary in Florida to live out his days after spending the majority of his life locked in cages.
And after arriving at the Save the Chimps sanctuary in Fort Pierce back in 2022, Tonka was reunited with his son Cayleb.
Speaking with People following the Sept. 8 episode, Dan Mathews, director of events and special projects for Save the Chimps, said that Tonka is now "enjoying his second act in peace with family, friends, dignity and freedom." The father and son had been left at separate facilities and were rescued through different cases.
"After three decades behind bars or in basements, isolated from other chimps and eating unhealthful food, Tonka is now fit and relishing the sunshine at our 150-acre sanctuary with a gregarious group of 17 chimpanzees who get state-of-the-art vet care," Matthews said of Tonka, who turns 33 on Oct. 5.
Chimp Crazy’s Primate Star Tonka Reunited with Long-Lost Son Cayleb at Florida Sanctuary https://t.co/NvYSK2lQmN
Like his father, Cayleb was also abandoned when he became too strong to control, before eventually being rescued by Wildlife Waystation, an animal refuge in California. However, after that facility closed its doors in 2019 Cayleb was one of 42 chimps in need of new homes. His bio on the Save the Chimps website says that he was initially nervous, but soon befriended another chimp named Jacob.
When Tonka arrived just a few years later, the three chimps were moved to the facility's three-acre Doug’s Island and were introduced to the family residing there. They now enjoy the companionship of a large family group and have the freedom to explore and relax in the sun.
Tonka's saga has riveted audiences since the docuseries, from Tiger King director Eric Goode, premiered last month. The chimp had a brief but illustrious Hollywood career, appearing in films such as Babe: Pig in the City, George of the Jungle, and Buddy before he became too large to work with.
In the latter film, Tonka starred alongside actor Alan Cumming, who was instrumental in working with PETA to rescue him from former nurse turned exotic animal enthusiast Tonia Haddix. The animal rights organization had successfully won a lawsuit decreeing that the chimpanzees in Haddix's care must be transferred to a sanctuary, however she then claimed that he had been euthanized and instead kept him locked in her basement.
Suffice to say, Tonka's freedom is well earned, following the years-long legal battle and hunt for the missing chimp.
Is the 'jalebi and fafda' combination the best breakfast combo? That is the cause of the latest debate on social media. It all started after food delivery platform Swiggy shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) saying that jalebi and fafda together are “the best breakfast combo”. The picture features a plate of crispy and juicy jalebis, served with crunchy, fried fafdas. For the unversed, fafdas are a staple Gujarati snack prepared with gram flour, carom seeds and black pepper. The breakfast combo also includes a few green chillies for that spicy kick. “This is the best breakfast combo. You can't change my mind (chef's kiss emoji),” read the caption.
The post sparked a debate among foodies. Agreeing with Swiggy's breakfast idea, a person commented, “Breakfast mein jalebi fafda khane ki urge hai (I have the urge to eat jalebi fafda for breakfast).”
Breakfast mein jalebi fafda khane ki urge hai????????????
Another suggested, “Bas ek cutting chai bhi add ho jaye, toh breakfast ka maza double ho jaye (Just add one cup of cutting tea and the breakfast fun will be doubled.)”
Bas ek cutting chai bhi add ho jaye, toh breakfast ka maza double ho jaye! ????☕️????
A foodie shared a picture of poha, scrambled eggs, and cornflakes served with cucumber slices and yogurt in the comments section, underlining their kind of best breakfast. “I might not completely agree with that.”
Previously, the internet went into a frenzy after Swiggy recommended having poha with tomato ketchup. A photo shared by Swiggy on X displayed a plate of poha seasoned with bhujia, curry leaves and nuts. A substantial amount of tomato sauce was drizzled on top, causing an outrage amongst foodies on X. Along with the post, Swiggy wrote, “The only right way to enjoy Poha.”
What is your favourite breakfast combo? Tell us in the comments below.
from NDTV News Search Records Found 1000 https://ift.tt/K2XJFaM
Let's admit it - there's nothing more annoying than craving ice cream, only to find your tub is now a block of frozen hardiness. You grab a spoon, give it a go, and - no, it's still as solid as a rock. But don't throw in the towel just yet! Getting that rock-hard ice cream to scoop isn't as tough as it seems. And no, you won't end up with a bent spoon or a messy kitchen. So whether you're gearing up for a dessert bash or a cosy night in, here are 5 simple tricks to enjoy your frozen ice cream without any hassle!
It might sound bizarre, but your microwave can actually help soften ice cream. Pop the tub in for just 10 to 15 seconds on the defrost setting. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't melt too much. This method softens the edges just right, giving you a creamy, scoopable texture without turning the whole tub into a gooey mess. Perfect for a quick fix!
2. Give The Scooper A Hot Water Dip
Here's a neat trick: if you dip your ice cream scooper in hot water before using it, scooping becomes a breeze! Boil some water, pour it into a container, and dip your scooper in for a minute. Shake off the excess water, and you're good to go. This method keeps your ice cream's texture and flavour intact, and no need to fuss with the microwave.
3. Store Ice Cream In The Freezer Door
Want to skip the softening steps altogether? Just store your ice cream in the freezer door. The door's temperature is a bit warmer than the rest of the freezer, so your ice cream stays frozen but isn't as rock-hard. This makes it super easy to scoop straight out of the freezer with minimal effort!
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Increase The Freezer's Temperature A Bit
If your ice cream is always too solid, it might be time to adjust your freezer's temperature. Turn it up a couple of degrees, aiming for around -15°C. This small change can make your ice cream softer and easier to scoop without affecting its texture or flavour.
5. Heat A Knife And Show Your Skills
If you're not keen on using a scooper, try heating a knife instead. Soak the knife in hot water for a few minutes, then use it to cut out the desired portion of ice cream. This makes cutting frozen ice cream much easier. Just reheat the knife as needed, and remember to keep this trick away from the kids since it involves a hot knife.
