All posts tagged: weightlifting

8 Best Weightlifting Shoes for Finally Hitting Depth

8 Best Weightlifting Shoes for Finally Hitting Depth

Heavy, sturdy, a little clunky, and very locked in, the Nike Romaleo 4s are your best bet for serious Olympic weightlifting, heavy squatting, and static overhead movements—and honestly, not much else. Even once they’re broken in, these aren’t very comfortable to walk around in, so they probably aren’t the move if you’re just looking for a raised heel to target your quads a bit more on leg press and hack squats. However, these ultra-rigid clompers are elite when it comes to static feats of strength. The stability and locked-in feel you get from the wide, hard sole coupled with the (very) supportive insole, narrow construction, and dual-strap lacing system means your foot won’t be going anywhere when you’re lifting in these, whether it’s max-out Friday on your weightlifting program or you’re finally going to strict press two plates in front of your gym crush. Best Looking: Adidas Adipower 3 Shoes Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3 Shoes When it comes to looks, you can’t go wrong with stripes. The classic silhouette of the Adidas Adipower 3 makes …

The best gym trainers for weightlifting, HIIT and CrossFit workouts, tried and tested

The best gym trainers for weightlifting, HIIT and CrossFit workouts, tried and tested

Much like when you’re investing in a pair of running shoes for women or men, choosing your gym trainers takes careful consideration. Stability is key. When you’re doing heavy lifts such as squats or deadlifts, the last thing you need is your feet rolling side to side. With this in mind, gym trainers are a little more rigid than running trainers and have a more stable sole. Versatility is important, too. A good gym trainer should perform across different workouts such as HIIT classes, weight training and potentially even short runs on the treadmill. This does depend on which workouts you do at the gym – some wearers might prefer a specialised pair for weightlifting, for example. You should also think about durability, fit and comfort. No one wants to feel rubbing or pinching while they’re powering through a set of walking lunges or going hard on the rowing machine. A final (and crucial) factor is the shoes’ traction and grip. From rubber mats to polished gym floors, you need trainers that let you move …

Single session of weightlifting improves executive function and processing speed

Single session of weightlifting improves executive function and processing speed

A new study found that processing speed regarding inhibitory control (the ability to suppress automatic or impulsive responses) and working memory improved in a group of participants after moderate-intensity resistance exercises compared to a group that was resting and watching a video during that time. Blood lactate levels and systolic blood pressure also increased after exercises. The paper was published in Psychophysiology. Resistance exercises are physical activities that make muscles work against an external force, such as weights, resistance bands, or one’s own body weight. They are designed to increase muscle strength by challenging the muscles to contract against this resistance. Common forms include weightlifting, push-ups, squats, and exercises using machines in a gym. These exercises trigger muscle fibers to adapt and grow stronger over time. Resistance training can also help improve bone density, which is especially important for preventing osteoporosis. It boosts metabolism because stronger muscles burn more calories even at rest. Such exercises are valuable for improving balance and coordination, particularly in older adults. They also reduce the risk of injuries by strengthening …