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Transcript of Perfect Fit Magazine - July 2015
CHRISTIAN BALE AND HIS AMAZING BODY
TRANSFORMATIONS
STRENGTH WITHIN, PRIDE THROUGHOUT
The return of the pullover
Secrets of the NBA players
LUXURY LUGGAGE
FITNESS REVIVAL
SLAM DUNKIN’ DATA
Guide to travel in style
DUMBBELLS FOR LEGSWith Abdullah Al SarafIN THE
KITCHENWITH CHEF YOSEF
AHMED MOHAMMED
VACATION SPECIAL: THE WORLD’S BEST RESORTS
ISSUE 6 • JULY 2015 www.perfectfitmagazine.com instagram account: @pfmag
SUPER SUPPLEMENTS: THE GOODNESS OF GLUTAMINE
WEEK PLAN
CORE
FAB ABS
12MARINEFASHION HOW TO LOOK HOT ON YOUR YACHT
INTRO TOCROSSFIT TASTER COURSE WITH AHMAD AL ABDULJALEEL IS SUGAR
THE NEW TOBACCO?
YOU’VE NEVER LOOKED BETTERWhen you look and feel your best.Stop for a minute. Capture this moment and keep it forever.
Choose PHOTOKINA for
@studio_photokina 1833311
www.photokinakw.com
IMAGE EDITING
PORTFOLIO WORK
SHOW COVERAGE
FITNESS PHOTOGRAPHY
IMAGE EDITING
400 premium products under one roof At
Oxygen Nutritionyou will find only the best, most popularand highest ranked supplements in the world
98 A WORLD OF WEIRD
›› 8PICTURE PERFECTAmazonian adventures
›› 11 BODY LIKE BALESuper-hero strength
›› 12PHYSIO LOCKERKeep your knees strong
›› 14NBA KNOWLEDGE All you need to know about b-ball
›› 15BASKETBALL BODIES Train like a Golden State Warrior
›› 16KITBAGLook and feel fresh at the gym
›› 17WEIGHT LOSS NEWSGrab a coffee before your workout
WARM UP
›› 94YOUR WORKOUT: PLATINUMReal people and real workouts.
›› 96YOUR WORKOUT: OXYGENWho did we see at the gym this month?
›› 98VIRTUAL INSANITYThe weirdest workouts from around the world
COOL DOWN
FUEL
›› 52FOOD FIGHTChange your chips and cheat on calories
›› 53SUPERFOOD OF THE MONTHSpirulina: the lean, clean, green super powder
›› 54OIL CHANGELow fat cuisine from Yosef Ahmed Mohammed
›› 57SUGAR RUSHAre sweets worse than cigarettes?
›› 60THE GOODNESS IN GLUTAMINEDiscover the real benefits of this popular supplement
›› 62STOCK UP ON SUPPSWhat’s in store at Oxygen Nutrition and Health House
›› 65CHEAT DAYAsian inspiration from Street Al Makan restaurant
54 KING OF THE KITCHEN
WARM UP This Month
14 NBA KNOWLEDGE
JULY 2015 ISSUE 06CONTENTS
607/2015
68 BADER BOODAI
86 MARINE STYLE
LIVE
›› 68 THE GODFATHER OF KUWAIT'S BODYBUILDINGThe man with the vision that changed bodybuilding in Kuwait forever – Mr. Bader Boodai – in an exclusive interview for Perfect Fit readers
TRAIN
›› 21COUNTDOWN BEGINS...Ready for Platinum Sports Festival?
›› 23NEWS FROM OXYGEN GYMWhy Riggae attracts big names
›› 25FITNESS FABLES VIListen to this before you next lift
›› 26FLYING FITNESSHow to stay fit on your holiday flights
›› 2812-WEEK WORKOUT: CARVE YOUR COREGet a trimmer trunk for summer
›› 34EQUIPMENT EXPERTA lesson in the low cable row
›› 38PULLOVERSOld school classic revisited
›› 42LEG DAY AGAIN!How to work your legs with dumbbells
›› 46THE CROSSFIT CRAZECardio Zone from CrossFit Box
STYLE
›› 84LUXURY LUGGAGEBe sure your suitcase is as stylish as its contents
›› 86CHAMPIONS OF STYLEFashion photo shoot with Ali Al Arbash
›› 91HUB FROM HOMETake your tech on tour with you
›› 74VACATIONS FIT FOR A VIPThe hottest holiday destinations and resorts
›› 78WORKOUT ON THE WAVESBook a health cruise and train as you travel
WARM UPThis Month
JULY 2015 ISSUE 06 78 THE FIVE BEST
FITNESS CRUISES
28 TARGET ABS
707/2015
807/2015
WHITE WATER
WARM UP Extreme Sports
n the 1500s, the Conquistadors first visited Ecuador in search of gold. Nowadays extreme
water sports enthusiasts travel south in search of a different treasure. The geography of Ecuador affords some of the best white water kayaking in the world. In the small city of Tena, river rapids carve their way through volcanic rock surrounded by Amazonian jungle and provide kayakers with fast paced waters and descents of up to 14 metres. If your idea of a vacation means long, lazy afternoons floating on a lagoon, Tena is definitely not for you. But if you like high-speed water sports, stomach-flipping drops and an adrenaline rush like no other, you’d better pack up your paddle.
Photo credit: Ammit Jack / Shutterstock.com
i
907/2015
WARM UPExtreme Sports
WARM UP Editor’s Letter
1007/2015
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step (Lao Tzu)“
STEP INTOSUMMER
5 THINGS
YOU MUST DO IN JULY
PUBLISHERRefocus Media
www.refocusmedia.com
EDITOR IN CHIEFKhaldoon Al Yahya
MANAGING EDITOR Nouh Barake
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Katarzyna Khanna
DEPUTY EDITOR Gemma Emmerson
SUB EDITORSLisa Monteith, Nehma Al Falah
PR MANAGERAhmad Qahtan
ARABIC TRANSLATION Rania Azba
CONTRIBUTORSAhmad Al Abduljaleel, Aidan Bricker,
Luke Haward, Bo Heamyan, Aimee Joseph, Kate Marshall, Lisa Monteith, Mark Pilkington, Reshmi Revi
CREATIVE DIRECTIONAndrew Douek-Pirotte,
Nader Al Quasim
DESIGNERSMateusz Wieliczka, Krzysztof Paciorek,
Zain Mounir Al Nejah
PHOTOGRAPHY Bader Al Bather 'Muscles Studio' Arfan Ahmed Sultan 'Photokina'
PRINT & PRODUCTIONAl Khat Printing Press
ADVERTISING www.perfectfitmagazine.com/advertising
Perfect Fit Magazine welcomes new contributors. If you would like to write for us, email your article ideas to the
Executive Editor: [email protected] Press releases and general enquires should be sent to
the Deputy Editor: [email protected]
Perfect Fit Magazine is published by Refocus Media Kuwait, Salmiya, Salem Al Mubarak Street
Wataniya Complex, 5th floor, T: +965 222 00 453, +965 222 00 454
DISCLAIMER Reader discretion is advised. Please consult your
physician before beginning any exercise or diet program or when making changes to an existing program if you
have any doubts about your health status.
T H E T E A M
Combat summer sweat with three bits of kit
Could a CrossFit workout reboot your regime?
Swap to a sweet but less sinful sugar substitute
Update your summer style with a marine fashion fix
Pack your trainers andtrunks for a fitness cruise
COPYRIGHT © 2015
ALL RIGHT RESERVED
Wow, it's hot! As I peek through the blinds at the scorching hot streets of Kuwait City, it's
hard to believe that people would leave their cool, air-conditioned homes when the temperatures outside are heading for the next record high. But you do.
Despite the summer heat and the further challenges of the Ramadan fast, many of our readers pass daytime hours at the gym, working hard to reach their summer goals. So to reward you for all your efforts, the Perfect Fit team have prepared a very special treat this July – turn to page 68 for an exclusive interview with Mr. Bader Boodai and find out what inspired 'the godfather' to reinvent the bodybuilding scene in Kuwait, and how he built his Oxygen empire.
If that's not enough, we have even more local VIP content just for you. Our correspondents went for a training session at the hottest CrossFit gym in Kuwait (read the report on page 46). After breaking into a sweat at Circuit Plus, they were treated to a meal with the chef of Kuwait's bodybuilding elite. Get a taste of Yosef Ahmed Mohammed's cooking on page 54.
Finally, if the July heatwave is driving you out of the city, make sure you read the Live and Style sections of the magazine. This is the vacation issue after all, and we have tons of summer specials for you, from ultra-luxurious holiday destinations around the world (page 74) to the best fitness cruises out there (page 78). Before departure, be sure to check out our fashion, gadgets and accessories for a perfect holiday.
Wherever you go and whatever you do this summer, stay safe and remain strong, Kuwait.
Ramadan Mubarak!
KATARZYNA KHANNA EXECUTIVE EDITOR
16
46
78
86
57
POWER CLEAN 4 sets of 10, 8, 6 and 6 reps.
SEATED CABLE ROWS 4 sets of 12 reps.
CLEAN PULL4 sets of 10, 8, 6 and 6 reps.
CHIN-UP Superset (used as a warm-up as well as to prepare the body for the heavier power exercises to come).
DAY
S: 1
& 5
DAY
S: 2
& 6
FREEHAND JUMP SQUAT4 sets of 10, 8, 6 and 6 reps.
BARBELL LUNGE 4 sets of 10 reps.
SPRINTS Perform 5 sets of 30m sprints and 5 sets of 40m sprints. 60 second breaks between sets and 120 seconds between distances.
DUMBBELL FLYES3 sets of 12 reps.
SMITH MACHINE BENCH PRESS3 sets of 12 reps.
BARBELL BENCH PRESS 4 sets of 10, 8, 6 and 6 reps.
RICOCHETS Intervals of two minutes on, 30 seconds off. Mark a 60cm (2ft) square on the ground.Jump from corner to corner as fast as you can, jumping to different corners every time. This exercise is performed for a total of 30 minutes.
WALKINGCYCLINGLEISURELY SWIM
DAY
S: 3
& 7
DAY
: 4
Celebrity Fitness
BODY LIKE:
BALEIt is hard to think of another actor who has been through as many body transformations as Christian Bale. Movie critics and gym-goers alike have long lauded his ever-changing physique. How does he do it?HONED HERO
ancy having a body like Batman? No, not the camp Adam West
incarnation, but the super-buff moody version portrayed in Christopher Nolan’s superb Dark Knight trilogy. If so then you’ll need to do what Christian Bale did and tackle the workout outlined here. This will certainly separate the Caped Crusaders from the Jokers...
f
1107/2015
WARM UPMovie Star Secrets
➊ Lean with your back against a wall with your feet and knees parallel.
➋ Bend your legs so you are squatting down, slowly sliding your back down until your legs are completely folded.
➌ Now raise your body up once again so you are standing up straight.
➍ Use your hands against the wall for extra stability if needed.
➎ Repeat 10 times.
WALL SLIDE This exercise not only improves your suppleness, but will also help build up the muscles around your knee.
➊ Stand in front of a bench or a set of stairs.
➋ Move up onto the step and stand as straight as possible before stepping down.
➌ Repeat as many times as you feel comfortable.
➍ Increase your speed for maximum effect, pumping your arms to help maintain a steady pace.
STEP UPThis is an easy exercise to perform but it can really help strengthen your knees.
Y our knees are vital for your legs’ movement, and an injury to this area can
have disastrous consequences for any athlete. Aside from shattering your actual knee bone, a tear to the ligament is one of the most serious problems you can encounter, and could mean you are out of action for months at a time whilst you slowly heal. Injuries to the muscles and tendons around your knee are also common, mostly caused by overextending your knee during physical movement. Should your knee receive a strong blow, it may become swollen and inflamed, again leading to a prolonged period of healing.
1207/2015
WARM UP Physio Locker
Strengthening the muscles around your knee and increasing flexibility helps to avoid injury and speed up recovery time for existing strains. Here are some simple exercises you can try out that can be incorporated into just about any fitness regime
PROTECT YOUR
KNEES
YOU WILL NEVER GET A SECOND CHANCE TO MAKE A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSIONFor many clients, your company profile is the first thing they will see.
A perfect company profile – that is attractive, professional and informative can make or break a business deal.
Contact Refocus Media for a company profile you will be proud to show your clients, and turn a good first impression into a lasting one…
Visit www. refocusmedia.com or call 222 00 453
1407/2015
As the Golden State Warriors take the NBA title for the first time in 40 years, we take a look at some of the most interesting facts from the world of basketballDATA
HOOP HISTORYThe first basketball game was played in 1892. Only one point was scored during the match and the court was half the size of the ones used today.
HOOPS & RINGSBasketball was made an official Olympic game in Berlin, Germany in 1936.
COLOUR CODEThe basketball was originally coloured brown, and changed a few years later to the much brighter colour of orange.
STAR OF THE STATESMichael Jordan is rated by many as one of the sport’s first true superstars, and holds the record for highest regular and playoff average points per game.
SEVENTH HEAVENThe tallest NBA player record is shared by two players – Manute Bol and Gheorghe Muresan, both standing at 7’7” (231cm).
SHORT STORYThe shortest ever NBA player was Muggsy Bogues, who measured 5’3” (160cm). He had a 14 year career as a player.
HEAVY WEIGHTThe heaviest NBA player was Oliver Miller, who weighed in at an incredible 170kg (375lbs). Slam dunk indeed.
SURPRISING STATBasketball is the national sport for the countries of Lithuania and Georgia.
FOOT NOTESA soccer ball was originally used in basketball until 1929, when an official ball was released.
NBA IS BORNThe National Basketball Association (NBA) was founded in 1949, after the National Basketball League and Basketball Association of America merged together.
SLAM DUNK
WARM UP Body Work
1507/2015
SupeR-SIze
MEDICINE BALL WALL THROWS
DUMBBELL SHOULDER PRESS
JUMPINGLUNGE
Hold a medicine ball with your hands at chest height.
Face a wall and as hard as you can, fire the medicine ball towards the wall with all of your strength.
As the ball bounces off the wall, hold your hands out to catch it and prevent it from hitting your body.
You should feel your arms absorb the ball’s force as you catch it.
Now fire the ball back to the wall again and repeat 20 times.
Getting match-ready when you’re in the NBA can be a tall order. Follow this schedule to get the power you need to slam dunk your way to success on the court…
Hold a pair of dumbbells in your hands.
Raise them up so they are at the same height as your shoulders.
Now, holding the dumbbells firmly, lift them up over your head until your arms are straight.
Hold for one second and then slowly lower the dumbbells back down to your shoulders.
Perform this exercise 15 times.
Stand with one foot in front of your body and one behind.
Lower yourself down into a squat, so your legs are bent at a 90-degree angle.
Now as hard as you can, squat yourself down and then up so you are jumping into the air.
Whilst in the air, swap your feet around and land back into a squat position.
Repeat 10 times.
TRAINING
Your shoulders are all-important when it comes to throwing a basketball, and this exercise will help build them up.
Designed not only to improve fitness, but also to improve your throwing and catching ability, this exercise works your arms, shoulders and hand-eye coordination.
Your legs need to be strong and supple and ready to power through a jump when you want to get that ball in the hoop.
WARM UPMuscle Mechanics
Want to look like Arnie in his prime, yet aren’t so keen on sporting
1970s-style sweat patches? If so then grab yourself some Contender Charged Cotton Shorts from Under Armour. Along with a retro raw-edge hem that makes them look like Arnold’s old cut-offs, these jersey shorts come complete with modern quick-dry technology, thus ensuring uncomfortable sweat patches remain well and truly terminated.
Giving your all at the gym invariably results in your training gear and
apparel getting caked in a myriad of sports-related odours. Suffice to say, these odours can start to linger if they aren’t challenged. Thankfully, the new SPORT Extreme Odor Eliminator from Febreze can easily save the day, as it is specifically formulated to locate and destroy all those unwelcome odours that like to take up residence on your trainers, apparel and unwashable sports gear.
It is a fact that adrenaline makes you sweat and that training
intensely will cause you to release more of it. This savvy deodorant is a very smart ally to have in this respect as it is designed to respond to increases in adrenaline, thereby affording you top level protection (and some much needed coolness) during even the most intense and extreme workouts.
STAYFReSh
WWW.WITHINGS.COM
degree men sport (adrenaline series)
Working up a sweat is a big part of any workout. There are plenty of products that can help to keep you smelling as good as you look. Here are three that will fit nicely into your gym bag...
Under Armour Jersey Shorts
Febreze SPORT Extreme Odor Eliminator WWW.FEBREZE.COM
WWW.UNDERARMOUR.COM
1607/2015
WARM UP Kit Bag
That pleasurable caffeine rush can be a powerful aid to fat loss too…
cup of coffee thirty minutes before your training session not only gives you a burst of
energy when you need it most, but can actually boost the rate at which you shed fat. Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that caffeine mobilises fat cells so they can be burned as energy. Caffeine supplements give a more concentrated hit, but don’t take them after mid-afternoon, as they may disturb your sleep, and keep them for your training days only.
A
Cheat meals have long been
recognised as a valuable addition to a bodybuilding diet plan, but a study published in Nutrition Journal suggests timing may be key. Researchers found that a high-protein breakfast reduced food cravings and suppressed the urge to snack on fatty and sugary foods later in the day. Having that burger or meat-laden pizza for your breakfast may be somewhat unconventional, but it could prevent your cheat meal from becoming an entire cheat day.
If you tend to reward yourself
for working out with high-calorie treats, you may need to amp up the fun in your fitness regime. Research from the Cornell Food and Brand Lab, USA, suggests that if you see your exercise as an enjoyable break from the working day, rather than focusing on the physical effort, you are less likely to over-indulge afterwards. Listen to upbeat music, find an enthusiastic training buddy or try a team sport, to increase the fun factor.
GUILT-FREE CHEATING
FUN FACTOR
BReW up TO BuRn
1707/2015
WARM UPWeight Loss
AVALABLE AT
1907/2015
TRAINEXERCISE IS A REWARD NOT A PUNISHMENT
PLATINUM NEWSFESTIVAL COUNTDOWN
FLY PERFECT FIT...MILE-HIGH STRETCHES
21
26
GO CRAZY FOR CROSSFIT
12-week guide to ripped abs and a stronger core
DUMBBELLS FOR LEGS
Get shorts-ready with winner of 'The Show' 2015
Mr. Al Abduljaleel reboots your training at Circuit+
CODE INTOYOUR CORE
28 38 42 46PLUS
OXYGEN NEWSROLL ON TO RIGGAE
EQUIPMENT EXPERTTHE LOW CABLE ROW
23
34
FITNESS FABLESIS MORE ALWAYS MORE? 25
Keep YOuR heADhen injuries strike, the time we spend in rehab can cause devastating
setbacks to our goals. Because so much of our personal identity and self-esteem is made up of our athletic achievement, according to John Murray, a clinical sports psychologist, physical injuries can cause us emotional misery and even depression. If you have an injury, Murray suggests trying another sport that doesn’t exacerbate the damage already done; keep your nutrition up, sleep well and finally – whilst remaining sensible – don’t let the fear of re-injury hold you back from what you love.
w
PULLOVERSREBORN
The rebirth of a Golden Age classic + how to
TAKECHARGE
OF YOURBODY
latinum Health Club is organising its annual Platinum Sports Festival, and there will be contests and competitions
galore. Set to begin on October 22, there is just three months to get in shape if you want to be in the competition. Every division of the Festival is open to people of all nationalities, within and outside of Kuwait. Those interested in competing should fill out the registration form and submit it to any Platinum Health Club by October 24, 2015.
P
THE CROSSFIT CHAMPIONSHIP: OCTOBER 22
THE STRONG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP: OCTOBER 23
THE PLATINUM BEACH BODY PHYSIQUE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP: OCTOBER 24
Division: CrossFit
Criteria: TBC
Prizes: Three cash prizes of up to $1,500USD
Division: Strong Team
Criteria: Individual contests including weightlifting 100kg for as long as contestants can, tyre throw downs for a distance of 25m and bench pressing the heaviest weight.Team efforts include towing a jeep and sandbag throws (weighing 50kg) over a distance of 25m.
Prizes: Three cash prizes of up to $1,500USD
Division: The Platinum Beach Body Physique Open Championship
Criteria: Three height class categories: 172cm and under, 180cm and under, and over 180cm.
Weigh In: Friday, October 23
Judging: Saturday, October 24 (am)
Finals: Saturday, October 24 (pm)
Prizes: Five cash prizes of up to $5,000USD
THE COUNTDOWNBEGINS
THE THREE MAJOR COMPETITIONS ARE:
TRAINPlatinum News
Fitness enthusiasts, you’ve been summoned! Platinum Sports Festival is just three months away, so if you want to be in the running, it’s time to step up your game Intro to CrossFit on page 46
2107/2015
Big Ramy
Dennis Wolf
stablished in 2006, this one-level gym boasts a whole host of kit from
treadmills, cross trainers and step mills to a fleet of resistance machines from some of the best brands like Hoist, Pannata, Hammer Strength and Life Fitness to name but a few.
What makes Oxygen Riggae different from its other branches is that it actually has a wider free weight selection. A training ground visited by many IFBB Pros such as Dennis Wolf, Big Ramy, Cedric McMillan, Shawn Rhoden, Tony
Freeman, Kai Greene and Victor Martinez, Oxygen Riggae offers the chance to rub shoulders with some genuine bodybuilding royalty as you work on your delts.
And if you’re wanting to incorporate a bit of variety in your training, head to the group fitness studios where they offer spin classes, circuit training, aerobic and TRX HIIT training on a daily basis. Not to mention the extensive sauna and steam area, as well as a restaurant serving a plethora of healthy dishes to enjoy pre and post workout.
What better endorsement could a gym have than to be visited by the likes of Wolf, Ramy, Rhoden and Green? Have you been to Oxygen Riggae yet?
For more information on Oxygen Mahboula, please contact 2373333For more information on Oxygen Riggae, please contact 24800050.
During Ramadan, Oxygen Riggae is open daily 11.30am to 2.30am.
Oxygen Riggae is open 24 hours Sat-Thu, and 1pm to 1am on Fridays.
RIggAe STYle
2307/2015
Oxygen News TRAIN
E
AVAILABLE AT
THE SCIENCE PART
‘Go heavy or go home’ is a popular mantra in gyms all over the world. The idea that lifting heavy is the only way to get big is so ingrained in weightlifting circles that we never even question it. But let’s do it now...
PART VI:
IS LIFTING HEAVY THE ONLY WAY TO GET BIG MUSCLES?
As you may already know, there are two distinct types
of muscle growth: myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic hypertrophy. Myofibrillar hypertrophy refers to the growth of actual muscle fibres, a phenomenon that is chiefly engendered by lifting heavy weights (normally around 70-85 percent of your one-rep max). In contrast, sarcoplasmic hypertrophy refers to the increase of the content
2507/2015
TRAINFitness Fables
of muscle cells responsible for converting glycogen to adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a reaction which is catalysed by doing high reps.
ATP is a highly desirable ‘commodity’ as it enables the body to effectively carry out a host of metabolic processes such as protein synthesis and muscle contraction. Ergo, anybody that experiences a deficiency of the ATP build-up associated with sarcoplasmic
hypertrophy will hit a plateau with muscle growth as the muscle fibres won’t have enough of the precious commodity they need to grow.
So with this in mind, it is clear to see that lifting heavy isn’t the only mantra to keep in mind when pumping iron; you’ll need to embrace both heavy weights (myofibrillar) and high reps (sarcoplasmic hypertrophy) strategies in order to experience optimal results.
TRAIN Stretch
O nce seen as a very glamorous way of getting from A to B, air travel is now regarded by
many as something to be endured rather than enjoyed. Indeed, the standard features of flying today – long check-in queues, convoluted security checks and lukewarm food – do little to make 21st century commercial flights seem particularly enticing.
FITNESSIN FLIGHT
And then there is the seating. The ‘pile-’em-on-and-pack-’em-in’ ethos employed by many airlines means passengers frequently have relatively little room within the aircraft to sit back and relax. Unsurprisingly, this can cause passengers – particularly those on long-haul flights – to feel cramped, uncomfortable and anything but relaxed.
However, there is something you can do about this. Stretch. Indeed, employing just a few seated in-flight stretching techniques can help to loosen the body and reduce tension, thereby making a prolonged period of flying a far more pleasant affair. Here are three great examples of stretches that can make jet-setting less back-breaking.
2607/2015
For some people, flying is the first part of their
vacation. For others, it’s just another way to get to a business meeting. Why
not try to use the time to loosen up and
stretch out?
TRAINStretch
FITNESS
2707/2015
The back stretch is undoubtedly one of the
best stretches you can do on a plane as it helps you to elongate your body, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of sitting uncomfortably for hours on end.
➊ Begin by ensuring you are sitting ‘tall’ in your chair, i.e. making sure your body is in a straight line from the top of your head to the bottom of your spine.
➋ Extend your arms out in front of your body, lacing your fingers together and rotating your wrists so that your palms face the seat in front.
➌ Gently extend your arms upwards until they are stretched out directly over your head.➍ Push your interlocked hands as high up as you can reach
and you will feel a good stretch in the centre of your back and along your shoulder blades. ➎ Hold this position for around 20 seconds, then release.
It is thought that stretching your neck
every 30 to 60 minutes can help to alleviate some of the discomfort associated with flying.
➊ Again, this starts by sitting tall in your seat. ➋ Take a deep breath; when you exhale, gently drop your right ear to your right shoulder. ➌ Hold this position for
at least 20 seconds before returning your head to its neutral position and then switching to the other side.
➍ For an even deeper stretch, bring your right hand to the top of your head, and very gently pull your right ear
closer to your right shoulder. Do this correctly and you will feel a satisfying stretch in the left side of your neck.
Use this stretch if you need to get a steward’s
attention or switch on a light to read, if you don’t want people to think you have gone mad!
➊ As before, get into position by sitting tall in your seat and taking a deep breath. ➋ Extend your right arm over your head and rest your left hand on your left thigh. ➌ As you exhale, bend your
torso to the left to allow your right arm to reach over your head toward the left side of your body.
➍ If you do it correctly, you should feel a good stretch along the right side of your ribcage.
➎ Hold this position for around 20 seconds, then return to your original position and switch to the other side.
BACK STRETCH
NECK SIDE STRETCH
OVERHEAD STRETCH
here are no replacements for heavy squats, deadlifts, rows and presses for building core
strength, but targeting your abs directly will stimulate more muscle growth and can also increase muscular endurance.
A combination of heavy compound training and direct abdominals work is important for two reasons.
t
Workout modelled by Mishary Alsaeed at Platinum Health Club. Follow him on Instagram @als3eidPhotography by Muscles Studio
They are the central focus of your physique and visually, there are few body parts more impressive than well-developed abdominals. Aidan Bricker tells us how to work your core directly in just 12 weeks
RIGHT TO The CORe
TRAIN 12 Week Workout
2807/2015
Your core is utilised during every compound exercise
you perform in the gym. If your core is weak, your strength will be limited on the big moves, where core strength is vital.
On a squat for example, you might be able to press more with your legs, but a weak core would limit the amount you could lift – at the expense of your overall leg development.
It’s worth remembering that your abs are a muscle
group like any other. Compound exercises should always be at the foundation of your program, but accessory work is useful to enhance your results – if your recovery allows it.
So if you have a well-structured training program, and want to boost your abs and core, add these moves over the next 12 weeks.
2
1The CORe
TRAIN12 Week Workout
2907/2015
DUMBBELL ROLLOUT
PLANK
TOP TIP
TOP TIP
A great exercise that targets both your upper and lower abs, and builds strength in your lower back.
A very simple but effective exercise that develops the deep underlying muscles in your core.
If you feel too much pressure or pain in your lower back, decrease the range of motion you use for the exercise.
Increase the difficulty by raising one hand or leg off the ground. Raising a leg and arm at the same time will make the exercise more difficult again.
➊ Kneel on a mat on the floor with dumbbells on the ground in front of you.
➋ Hold the dumbbells with a slightly wider than shoulder-width grip.
➌ In a smooth and controlled motion, roll the dumbbells out until your body is straight and fully extended.
➍ Pause briefly, then pull the bar back to the starting point.
➎ Repeat for reps.
➊ Assume a press-up position.
➋ Lower yourself down onto your elbows, keeping your back straight and your elbows tucked in.
➌ Hold that position for the designated time, ensuring your body shape stays the same.
➍ Repeat for sets.
TRAIN 12 Week Workout
3007/2015
HANGING LEG RAISE
TOP TIP
A great exercise to target the lower abs, as well as develop grip strength and build your forearms.
Keep your upper body still and don’t allow your body to swing back and forth. This will keep the tension on your abs, which will lead to better results.
➊ Hang from a pull up bar, so your legs are straight and hanging down beneath your body.
➋ Without using momentum, raise both legs together until they are parallel to the floor.
➌ Slowly lower your legs to the starting point.
➍ Repeat for reps.
TRAIN12 Week Workout
3107/2015
STRAIGHT LEG HOLD
TOP TIP
A great finisher for your workout, this is a very difficult exercise that you need to build up to as your endurance and core strength improves.
If this exercise is too difficult, bend your legs and tuck your knees into your chest. This will be an easier position to hold.
➊ Position yourself in a dip machine, facing out.
➋ In a smooth and controlled motion, raise your legs together until they are parallel to the ground.
➌ Hold the position for the designated period of time.
➍ Repeat for sets.
V-UPS
TOP TIP
A challenging exercise that works both your upper and lower abs at the same time.
To make the move more challenging, pass a medicine ball between your feet and hands on each repetition.
➊ Lie on the ground, with your legs out straight and your arms straight up behind your head.
➋ In a smooth and controlled motion, raise your legs and upper body until they meet and your body forms a ‘V’ shape.
➌ Slowly lower yourself to the starting point.
➍ Repeat for sets.
TRAIN 12 Week Workout
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12-WEEK WORKOUT PLANWEEKS 1-4Barbell Rollout 3 sets of 8-10 reps
Hanging Leg Raise 3 sets of 12-15 reps
Plank3 sets of 60 seconds
REST1 minute between sets
REST1 minute between sets
REST1 minute between sets
Unlike some of the other Perfect Fit 12 week programs, you aren’t
going to devote a whole workout to your abs each week.
For most people, training time is limited – as is recovery – and putting an hour aside each week to smash your abs is overkill. Instead, add these exercises onto the end of a workout each week. If your abs are a real focus and you want to bring them up, then consider training them a couple of times a week.
Finally, it’s important to remember that your abs will never shine through unless you are lean. You could develop the best set of abs going, but if they’re covered by a layer of fat, no-one is going to see them.
Pay close attention to your diet and implement cardio if necessary to get the results you’re after.
WEEKS 5-8V-ups 3 sets of 8-10 reps
Dumbbell Rollout 3 sets of 10-12 reps
Straight Leg Hold 2 sets of 30 seconds (or to failure if 30 seconds is too difficult)
WEEKS 9-12Hanging Leg Raise 2 sets of 10-12 reps
Barbell Rollout 2 sets of 10-12 reps
Plank2 sets of 60 seconds
V-ups 2 sets of 12-15 reps
Straight Leg Hold 1 set to failure
THE PLAN
TRAIN12 Week Workout
3307/2015
he back is a very large muscle group, and one that can be difficult to stimulate
to grow. When it comes to using machines, the low cable row makes a great addition to your program. Knowing how to use it properly is vital though. There are many different variations to this machine, each with its own individual benefit.
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Everybody wants a strong and well-built back. Adding some variation to your routine can stimulate motivation as well as gains. Have you tried the low cable row?
Workout modelled by Abdulrahman Al Failakawi at Platinum Health Club. Follow him on Instagram @3b_alfailakawi. Photography by Muscles Studio
HOW LOW CAN YOU ROW?
TRAIN Equipment Expert
3407/2015
HOW LOW CAN YOU ROW?
TRAINEquipment Expert
3507/2015
Change up the cable attachments that you use during each session.
This will help to stimulate your back from a variety of different angles, and result in more muscle growth. Some of the best attachments to use are :
CLOSE GRIP WITH HANDS FACING EACH OTHER:
WIDE GRIP WITH AN OVERHAND GRIP:
● This will target the muscles in the middle of your back as well as adding size to your biceps.
● Pause in the contracted position and squeeze your shoulder blades together to get the most out of the exercise.
● Using this attachment will stimulate the muscles in your upper back, which will help to carve out that much sought after ‘V-taper.’
● Pull the bar all the way into your chest for a full contraction and keep your body still throughout the movement to maximise muscle growth.
ALTERNATE CABLE ATTACHMENTS
TRAIN Equipment Expert
3607/2015
When using machines, it can be tempting to neglect proper form
and focus on just moving the weight from A to B. To make sure that you get the most out of the low cable row, follow these tips for proper technique:
Keep your back straight throughout each move. This will prevent injury.
Push your chest out. This will put your back into the proper position and help to keep your posture tight.
Start with your arms straight. You want the cable to move through its full range of motion. This will stimulate your back across its full spectrum, increasing muscle growth.
1.2.
3.
PROPER EXERCISE TECHNIQUE
TRAINEquipment Expert
3707/2015
3807/2015
ears ago, the pullover was considered to be one of the most essential exercises in bodybuilding. Indeed, everyone from early pioneers like Alan Calvert
and Larry Scott to Golden Era greats like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Ronnie Coleman and Frank Zane all swore blind that the pullover played a highly significant role in their upper body development; but then something changed. It is true to say the pullover is a lift that now generates some dispute amongst modern day bodybuilders, trainers and scientists. Whilst some believe it to be a definite chest exercise, others say it's without a doubt a back worker. What cannot be disputed though is the fact that this is a near-total upper body exercise, a genuine ‘upper body squat’ which the finest bodybuilders who ever lived have used to achieve monumental gains.
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TRAIN Training Technique
PULLOVERS RevISITeD AnD ReBORn
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The mid-to-late 1970s was a time of great change in the bodybuilding
world. Trainers and trainees alike were embracing the science behind their trade, and gyms everywhere were investing in all kinds of new fangled machines and specialised apparatus that enabled athletes to target specific body parts with greater accuracy. Moreover, these machines – the Nautilus pullover machine among them – allowed bodybuilders to develop more varied workouts, a move which led to a general disregard for some ‘old-fashioned’ exercises like the flat bench pullover.
The onset of more functional training attitudes in the late eighties and early nineties did little to stall the pullover’s decline. Worse still, the meteoric rise of the ‘caution first’ exercise science brigade in the 2000s, with their persistent warnings about inevitable shoulder injuries, pretty much signed the death warrant for the once mighty pullover.
Fortunately, it’s not all doom and gloom. The rise of the Internet
and the interconnected nature of the modern world has led bodybuilding aficionados all across the globe to seek out, relay and share ideas from the past. The result of this digital renaissance is that the pullover is once again creeping back into general consciousness. This is fantastic news, not just for fans of classic bodybuilding, but also for trainees of all standards who are looking to develop their upper body, as this exercise is very easy to do and has a habit of yielding truly impressive results.
Now is the time for the pullover to emerge from the shadows of its enforced hiatus and once again show the world why it is – and always will be – one the greatest upper body lifts out there.
THE HISTORY: FALLING BY THE WAYSIDE
THE FIGHT BACK: DIGITAL RENAISSANCE
TRAINTraining Technique
Known as the ‘upper body squat,’ the pullover was once favoured by the great and the good of the bodybuilding world. Bo Heamyan asks, “What happened?” It’s not like the exercise somehow stopped being effective overnight…
PULLOVERS
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So what makes the pullover so special? Is it really right to call it
the ‘upper body squat’? As you may well know, you need to come at a muscle from a number of different angles in order to make it grow to its full potential.
You’ll also know that your chest muscles control the movement of your upper arm at the shoulder joint. Any movement which results in your upper arm moving in toward the front of your body will, in some way or another, require the use of the pectoralis major muscle of the chest.
Many bodybuilders (particularly novices) come to believe that pushing something away from you (as you do when bench pressing), or making a bear-hug-type motion (as you would
when doing dumbbell flyes) is the only way to engage and work the muscles of the chest. However, this type of movement – known as ‘horizontal adduction’ of the upper arms – is only one of several different movements that the chest muscles are responsible for. Ergo, your chest will only experience a limited degree of development if you restrict yourself to doing just these types of movement.
The thing about pullovers is that they integrate upper arm extension.
THE SCIENCE: WHY PULLOVERS ARE GOOD
Position yourself so that you’re lying perpendicular to your bench with only your shoulders supported.
Ensure your head and neck hang over the bench and that your hips are slightly lower than your shoulders.
Your feet should be flat on the floor, shoulder width apart.
Grasp a dumbbell using your thumbs and pointer fingers to facilitate a hands-crossed-in-a-diamond-shape-type grip. Your palms should be facing the ceiling.PO
SITI
ON
TRAIN Skill Set
YOU SHOULD TAKE GREAT CARE DOING THIS EXERCISE IF YOU HAVE A HISTORY OF SHOULDER PROBLEMS
If you’ve never done pullovers before, then
it’s high time you added them to your regime.
Here’s how to do them with good form
how to do PULLoVERS
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Doing a pullover lift makes you work the upper chest from a whole different plane than if you were to do something like an incline press (which is horizontal adduction). This results in you stimulating largely unused chest muscle fibres in a completely contrary way, thus catalysing a degree of new muscle growth in the upper chest, which you’re unlikely to have experienced before. And it’ll do it pretty quickly too!
It literally forces your chest apart and forces it into new growth. Arnold Schwarzenegger“
TRAINSkill Set
IF YOU PREFER, YOU CAN PERFORM THIS EXERCISE WITH A BARBELL OR AN EZ BAR RATHER THAN DUMBBELLS
E
B
DHold the dumbbell over your chest and lock a bend in your elbows of around 10 or 15 degrees.
This is your start position.
Take a deep breath, hold it and slowly lower the weight backward over your head in an arc-like motion until your upper arms are in line with your torso (parallel to the floor).
Feel the stretch in your sternum area, exhale and pull the dumbbell back to the start position, squeezing your chest as you go.
Hold for a second then repeat.
Aim to do 12+ reps for 3-4 sets.MO
VEM
ENT
6
2
4
5
1
3
Next time you reach for the dumbbells, try these moves to get your legs pumped and balance out your upper body
Workout modelled by Abdullah Al Saraf at Oxygen Gym.Follow him on Instagram @__teller__.Photography by Muscles Studio
DUMBBELL FOR YOUR
LEGSTRAIN One Kit Wonder
4207/2015
eg day comes around so fast, and for many it’s the least favourite workout.
By keeping your training schedule fresh and exciting, you will keep your motivation up and of course, your leg muscles jacked.
l
➊ Stand about a metre from a workout step. Face away from the bench and hold the dumbbells by your sides.
➋ Extend your left leg behind you so that you’re able to rest your left foot securely on the step.
➌ Slowly lower your body by bending your right knee.
➍ Keep looking ahead; DO NOT lean forward as you descend.
➎ Once your right thigh becomes parallel with the floor, slowly raise your body back up, taking care not to lock your knee out at the top of the movement.
➏ This is one rep.
➐ Repeat for reps, then switch legs and repeat.
ONE-LEG SQUAT
Raising the platform higher makes the exercise even more challenging!
TOP TIP
PERFORM AS
MANY GOOD QUALITY
REPS AS YOU CAN
FOR UP TO 4 SETS
TRAINOne Kit Wonder
4307/2015
➊ Place a dumbbell on the ground near one end of a flat workout bench.
➋ Lie face down on the bench and position yourself so that your knees are at the edge nearest the dumbbell.
➌ Wrap your arms around the bench, pick up the dumbbell with your feet and extend your legs. This is the start position.
➍ Slowly curl the dumbbell towards your buttocks by bending at the knees.
➎ Raise the dumbbell as far as you can without experiencing discomfort.
➏ Pause for a second then slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position.
➐ Repeat for reps.
HAMSTRING CURL
➊ Stand in front of a workout step with your knees slightly bent.
➋ Hold the dumbbells by your sides.
➌ Carefully step onto the platform with your right foot.
➍ Once your right foot is in position, step up with your left foot.
➎ After a brief pause, step back down, first with your right foot, then with your left.
➏ This is one rep.
➐ Repeat for reps, alternating your lead foot.
STEP-UP
Use little (or no) weight to begin with. Add weight when you feel progress has been made.
TOP TIP
TRAIN One Kit Wonder
4407/2015
➊ Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a slight bend in your knees.
➋ Hold the dumbbells by your sides.
➌ While keeping your back as straight as you can, bend at the waist and lower the dumbbells so that they hang above your feet.
➍ Without bending your knees, continue to lower the dumbbells as far as you can without experiencing discomfort.
➎ Once you reach your lowest point, raise the dumbbells back up, squeezing up through your glutes and hamstrings until you’re standing back in the start position.
➏ This is one rep.
➐ Repeat for reps.
STIFF LEG DEADLIFT
➊ Stand with a slight bend in your knees and the dumbbells by your sides.
➋ Step forward with your right leg and squat down through your hips.
➌ Ensure your head and torso remain upright.
➍ Do not allow your knee to extend further forward than your toes.
➎ Use your right heel to push yourself back to the starting position.
➏ This is one rep.
➐ Repeat for reps then alternate.
LUNGE
DON'T TRAIN TO FAILURE
A more challenging version is the walking lunge, where you walk across the room but in a lunging fashion.
TOP TIP
TRAINOne Kit Wonder
4507/2015
e can define the term CrossFit as a core strength and conditioning training program; one that aims to
prepare members for facing different kinds of physical challenges in their daily life. Similar training programs are used for police operations, marines, military and firefighters. This is serious stuff. furthermore, CrossFit is considered to be one of the most efficient training programs for fat loss, when combined with a healthy balanced diet.
w
CrossFit is becoming a very popular professional sport that is being practiced worldwide with more than 10,000 affiliated gyms. It is suitable for all ages and abilities as it can be modified according to an individual’s own pace. The type of exercise remains the same but the intensity varies according to ability. The Olympic athlete’s needs and a typical person’s needs differ by degren not kind. Generally speaking, CrossFit plays an important role in optimising fitness and strength but it can also be used to support other sports such as martial arts, track and field and MMA wit martial arts.
Photography at Circuit Plus Shuwaikh by Muscles Studio
We hear about CrossFit everywhere. But incorrect definitions of the term are leaving many of us confused, and even worse, put off trying it. Ahmad Al Abduljaleel – level 2 CrossFit trainer – is here to set the record straight
WHAT IS CROSSFIT?
TRAIN CrossFit Zone
4607/2015
CROSSFIT AIMS TO CREATE A WELL-ROUNDED ATHLETE THROUGH THE FOLLOWING 10 PRINCIPLES:
CROSSFIT HAS THREE MAIN ASPECTS:
● Endurance
● Stamina
● Strength
● Flexibility
● Power
● Speed
● Coordination
● Agility
● Balance
● Accuracy
FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENTS: These are multi-joint compound movements that cannot be divided into isolated movements. Example: squats and deadlifts.
CONSTANTLY VARIED:
There isn’t a basic routine in CrossFit. Diverse programs mean nerves and muscles will not adjust to only one type of training.
HIGH INTENSITY: This includes reaching neuroendocrine adaptation either neurologically or hormonally in your body.
1.
2.
3.
WHAT IS CROSSFIT?
TRAINCrossFit Zone
4707/2015
Does CrossFit target mass gain?Gains are not a priority in CrossFit, although athletes may get muscle mass through their weight lifting training and the functional lifts.
Can I combine CrossFit with bodybuilding?Yes! If you want better strength, better conditioning and more gains, you can combine the two sports. Create a program that incorporates both sports without overtraining.
Does CrossFit cause injury?Injuries can be found in any sport. Since CrossFit depends on free weights, then it is the athlete’s responsibility to learn the proper lifting techniques in order to avoid injuries. You have to learn the basics before moving on to more complicated movements.
Is CrossFit very effective for fat loss?CrossFit is one of the most effective methods for fat loss and body toning due to its high intensity workouts. Such workouts burn calories for hours after the training session, along with maintaining muscle mass from weightlifting.
Is CrossFit for everyone?Yes. CrossFit is for everyone that looks to improve general strength and conditioning depending on their condition status.
1. Location, Location, Location Choose your CrossFit box wisely depending on which has the best training hours, equipment and coaching background for your needs.
2. Quiz your coach
Ask your coach about his athletic background, certifications and his achievement in CrossFit.
3. Less is more The fewer CrossFitters per session, the more focus and attention you will get from your coach.
CROSSFIT TOP TIPS
JOIN
(965) 6604 5273
(965) 2205 3232
CROSSFIT FAQs
TRAIN CrossFit Zone
4807/2015
The author is a certified CrossFit level 2 trainer and holds training certificates in kettlebell, powerlifting, weightlifting and mobility. He started coaching CrossFit in Kuwait in 2013 and has competed in many CrossFit competitions both at home and abroad.
Email: [email protected] Instagram: @jaleelio
AHMAD AL ABDULJALEEL
4. Learn your lifts Learn the proper techniques for your lifts, and never increase your lifting weights before mastering the technique.
5. Take care of technique Always maintain the proper lifting technique with each lift, especially with high repetitions, and never break your form to finish faster.
6. Knowledge is power Read more and always be aware of everything related to your sport.
7. Stretch it out Start with a dynamic warm up before your session, and always end it with stretching your muscles.
8. Get injuries checked Overtraining is your first enemy.
9. Get some sleep Sufficient sleep, rest and proper nutrition are your key to achieving the most in every sport.
CROSSFIT FAQs
TRAINCrossFit Zone
4907/2015
Sharq-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Imad StreetTrade Center-Ground Floor
22414548Kaifan inside Platinum Kaifan
97987719And soon inside
PLATINUM CLUBSabah Al-Salem
We chooseour products carefully The first company in Kuwait concerned about choosing stimulant free supplements suitable for all of sports
health_house_nutrition
5107/2015
FUELFRESH FROM THE SHORES TO THE STORES
eASTeRnpROMISe
hinese healers have been using it for centuries. Now seaweed has been shown to have a mineral content that is 10 times
higher than that of soil-grown plants. The most significant of these minerals is iodine, essential for your thyroid. This means a healthy metabolism, more efficient utilisation of calories and less fat storage. Although iodine can be found in other seafood, its levels in seaweed are 100,000 times as concentrated as in its fishy counterparts. With a record high level of nutrients, low calorie content (just 43kcal per 100g) and zero cholesterol, seaweed may well be the king of all sea shrubberies. Use it in soups, smoothies, salads and stir-fries.
c
THE SUPER POWERS OF SPIRULINA
PLUSSIN-FREE SIDES
GOODNESS IN GLUTAMINE
SUGAR RUSH
We abstain from drugs but is sugar just as addictive?
Would you try a fitter version of the French fry?
The bodybuiding benefits and health advantages
Chef to the stars: Yosef Ahmed Mohammed
EXCLUSIVEINTERVIEW
52 54 57 60
53
CHEAT DAY ASIAN STYLEAT STREET AL MAKAN 65
GLUTAMINE AT OXYGEN AND NUTRI HOUSE 62
ith fast food outlets on every corner, French fries have become the ultimate
convenience food – tempting, tasty and readily available when you get a sudden snack attack.
Sadly, commercially made fries are laden with calories, saturated fat and salt, and so will not do your waistline, heart or blood pressure any favours. Plus cooking potatoes at very high temperatures creates a chemical called acrylamide, which is believed to be carcinogenic and genotoxic.
A great option that provides the same comforting carb fix without the drawbacks is the humble sweet potato. It has less than a third of the calories (92kcals per 100g, compared to 323kcals) and is dramatically lower in fat;
over a year, if you swapped one portion of fries a week for a baked sweet potato, you would avoid eating a staggering 772g of fat!
Sweet potatoes also contain less than half the carbohydrates of fries, meaning they don’t cause a blood sugar spike, and they are particularly rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C, which support immunity. They are also a good source of heart-healthy potassium. Serve them with a little olive oil, to help absorption of the beta-carotene, and your tasty topping of choice.
W
ReCI
peDo you crave French fries but hate the effect they have on your waistline? Here’s a healthy alternative that has all the flavour, along with a handful of fantastic nutritional benefits
FUEL Food Fight
If you’re really craving fries, sweet potato wedges are a delicious alternative.
1. Preheat oven to 200˚C.
2. Slice sweet potatoes into wedges, and toss in a tablespoon of olive oil. You can add half a teaspoon of paprika, cumin or cayenne powder for a spicy kick.
3. Bake on a baking tray for 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
HEA
LTH
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EDG
ES
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0.15g
Fat
92kcal
Calories
20g
Carbs
15g
Fat
42g
Carbs
323kcal
Calories
[Each 100g contains]
FRenChFRIeS
SWeeTpOTATO NOT
THATEATTHIS
FUELSuperfood Of The Month
EAT ME THROUGHOUT THE DAY Spirulina comes in powder form, flakes, tablets and blended with soya protein. As spirulina has a distinctly salty taste, most energy bars will contain nuts, seeds and honey in order to mask it. These are wonderful for a quick snack in the afternoon. Alternatively, buy the powder and mix into a smoothie for a filling drink before you hit the gym, a tasty breakfast shake or for an energy boost after work.
ound in the saltwater lakes of central and southern America and Africa, spirulina is packed full of amino
acids, copper, magnesium, selenium, zinc and sodium, and is incredibly high in chlorophyll, which is fantastic at removing toxins. It has also been proven to lower the risk of strokes.
Natural supplements from the water are always going to be a hit with fans of clean nutrition. The pond algae known as spirulina is one of the most impressive superfoods out there
f
ReCI
peSP
IRU
LIN
A S
MO
OTH
IE
USE ME IN A DIFFERENT WAY
SPIRULINA
2.5g
protein
437kcal
calories
2.8g
saturated fat
Because spirulina is a ‘living’ component, it’s literally food for the skin. Mix two tablespoons with
water to form a paste and apply to your face. Leave on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off and moisturising.
Mix the following in a blender, adding the spirulina last. Chill in the fridge and enjoy when cold.
2 teaspoons of dried spirulina1/2 cup of blueberries1 medium papaya 1 lime (juice) 1 banana 1 cup of almond or soya milk
[per serving]
5307/2015
ord on the street is that this 33-year-old officer of the Central Police Station in
Sulaibikhat is also top notch when it comes to preparing healthy dishes. We had to find out just how deep his passion for clean cooking runs, where he gets his inspiration and of course, what is his favourite cheat meal?
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HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE FOOD BUSINESS?
I’m a foodie at heart. I used to love eating junk food and would cook for family and friends. One day I decided I wanted to make healthier variations of my meals; a cleaner version without sacrificing its authenticity in taste. WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE? I’m self-taught. I read, watch and love using my creativity to concoct clean and tasty dishes. There are several cooking courses I’d like to do but at the moment, my schedule unfortunately does not allow for it.
Yosef's Instagram: @yosef_1982. Photography by Photokina
He fights crime by day, and he’s a fitness chef by night! Reshmi Revi booked a table with super-food superhero Yosef Ahmed Mohammed. Here’s the report…
KING OF THE KITCHEN
FUEL Fitness Food
5407/2015
HOW MANY CLIENTS DO YOU HAVE AT THE MOMENT?
At the moment I have seven clients. Each of them gets four meals a day so that’s 28 meals in total. Even during Ramadan, I will get up at 5am to prep their dishes. HOW DO PEOPLE SUBSCRIBE TO YOUR FOOD SERVICE?
My clients will tell me what their daily macronutrients are; how much protein, carbs, fats they are allowed in a day. Then they tell me how many meals they need and what sort of protein type they want. So for example, I will get a client telling me he needs five meals, three chicken-based, one fish-based and one beef-based. I then prep his meals based on the information.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE HEALTHY MEAL?
Well, anything involving a grill! So I would have to say a nice slab of steak. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE CHEAT MEAL?
A nice juicy burger! Angus or Wagyu.
ARE YOU A BODYBUILDER?
I’m a big fitness enthusiast. Right now I’m training up for a Bodystyle competition later in the year.
WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHEF?
Gordon Ramsay. He’s serious and I’m serious. He’s also very meticulous with detail like myself; the quality and proportion of ingredients used, the technique in cooking said dish; right down to the presentation.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ANYONE WANTING TO COOK HEALTHY FOOD?
Your body is an investment so you need to nourish it well. Go for fresh produce, especially your meat. Never get frozen. You shouldn’t skimp on the quality of your ingredients because it will show in your dish, so don’t go for cheap cuts. You should always think thoroughly when it comes to your food prep. There’s a saying: “fail to prep and prep to fail.” I remember this one time, I had to tweak one of Ahmed Askar’s meals and I finally solved it – after thinking about it for a few days – while doing my cardio. Askar now thinks I should always do two hours of cardio a day! Lastly: have a passion for your cooking. If you enjoy it, you’ll do it well.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR KEY CRITERIA WHEN IT COMES TO PREPARING YOUR DISHES?
First taste, then oil reduction. Healthy food can sometimes be bland. What I want to do is give a variety of healthy dishes to my clients that are tasty, healthy, oil-free and served in a cool and fun way. WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR PRODUCTS?
I really go out of my way to source my ingredients. So I will visit the farms, markets, supermarkets like Sultan Center, Lulu, Saveco, everywhere basically.
WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR CLIENTS?
IFBB Pro Big Ramy, IFBB Pro Roelly Winklaar, Abdullah Al Otaibi, Ahmed Askar, Bader Boodai.
FUELFitness Food
5507/2015
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#ATHLETESCOCKTAILHYDRATE. ENERGIZE. RECOVER
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SECRETS OF SUGAR
You may think a sweet treat here and there can’t
harm you, especially if you always abstain from
junk food and cigarettes. But what if we told you that eating sugar is as
addictive as taking drugs? Aimee Joseph
investigates the shocking effects of what one scientist is calling ‘the new tobacco’
mmm doughnuts. And cream cakes. And chocolate. Who
doesn’t love a sweet treat now and then? Or maybe more often than that. Obesity is now an international epidemic, with the Overseas Development Institute reporting this year that one in three adults worldwide are now classed as overweight or obese with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or more.
Obesity is one of the leading causes of preventable death, yet we can’t seem to stop eating the foods that are slowly killing us.
Many of us have a sweet tooth and often crave sugary snacks, especially after a gym session, but have you ever wondered why you find it so
hard to say no to these tempting foods? Well, junk food is addictive, like a drug, and the ingredient that makes junk food so hard to resist is sugar – specifically white processed sugar. Once you know the truth about the impact sugar has on your body, you may think again before reaching for that post-workout treat.
“Sugar is the new tobacco,” says Simon Capewell, Professor of Clinical Epidemiology at the University of Liverpool, UK. “Everywhere, sugary drinks and junk foods are now pressed on unsuspecting parents and children by a cynical industry focused on profit not health. The obesity epidemic is already generating a huge burden of disease and death.”
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THE
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FUELJunk Food Revealed
FUEL
5807/2015
Junk Food Revealed
WHAT IS SUGAR?Sugar is a carbohydrate and comes in many different forms. A general rule is: if it ends in ‘OSE’ it’s a sugar.
There are two main types of sugar: simple sugars (called monosaccharides) like glucose, fructose, and galactose, and complex sugars such as sucrose, maltose, and lactose.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE EAT IT?When you eat foods that are high in sugar, your pancreas releases a hormone called insulin to help regulate the level of sugar in your blood. The more sugar you eat, the more insulin is released into your bloodstream.
Insulin helps to store the glucose in the liver and muscles as glycogen (energy) and in fat cells. However, when too much insulin is released, your blood sugar drops below normal levels. This process is called hypoglycaemia, better known as a ‘sugar crash.’
And how do you respond? You crave more sugar. This is why sugar is so addictive.
And it gets worse. The more often this process takes place, the more severe the sugar crashes become, and the more insulin is required.
This means your body will eventually stop using sugar as energy and instead it will go straight to extra insulin and fat storage, making you gain weight.
SHOULD WE AVOID SUGAR COMPLETELY?Sugar can either be used as energy or stored as fat. So if you’re very active, a small amount of sugar probably won’t affect your waistline.
However if you’re not so active, sugar will not just make you fatter, it can increase your risk of a wide variety of diseases including diabetes and liver disease, and may also contribute to certain types of cancer.
It’s important to be aware that some people are a lot more effective at burning off sugar due to having a naturally high metabolism. For those who feel like they gain weight easily, the amount of sugar consumed is something that needs to be managed.
SO HOW MUCH SUGAR IS SAFE?The World Health Organization recommends that people should have no more than 10 percent of their total daily calories as sugar. So, for example, if you eat 2000 calories per day, this means you should only be consuming 50g of sugar. To put this into perspective, one can of Coke contains 33g of sugar. And if you drink a lot of tea or coffee, be aware that one teaspoon of sugar is 4g – so nearly one tenth of your daily allowance.
Always read food labels to ensure that you’re not eating too much hidden sugar. Don’t forget that if you eat healthily most of the time, and lead a fit and active lifestyle, you can still enjoy sweets and desserts.
WHY IS SUGAR SO BAD FOR YOU?
HONEY
A very popular
alternative that’s even sweeter than sugar. Honey has
natural antibacterial properties and is
packed with vitamins. There are
lots of different types of honey, so
choose the one that is best suited to your
taste. However it’s important to note
that honey is higher in calories than
sugar, so be careful if you’re watching
your waistline.
XYLITOL
The flavour is as sweet as sugar,
but with only two thirds the calorie count.
It is naturally found in fibrous
fruits, vegetables and some
hardwood trees, and is often used
in sugar free chewing gum.
Dentists favour Xylitol as a sugar alternative as it
does not convert to tooth decay-causing acids
like normal sugar.
STEVIA
The best alternative to sugar, and calorie free. Not only is it
around 300 times sweeter than sugar but it’s also a natural herb, meaning
it has zero effect on your blood sugar levels.
Tribes in South America have been using the
herb for hundreds of years and it has also been
used medicinally to treat burns,
colic and stomach problems.
COCONUT SUGAR
Nutritious and has a low glycaemic
index, meaning you don’t get any sugar crash. The taste is like brown sugar
but slightly richer. As the name
suggests, coconut sugar is made from coconut sap, which
is heated to evaporate the water
content and converted into
granules. It contains the
minerals iron, zinc, calcium and
potassium, along with some short chain fatty acids, polyphenols and
antioxidants.
DATE SUGAR
If you like the flavour of dates, you’ll love this; it’s made from
dehydrated dates which are ground to make
sugar with a rich, sweet taste. It also retains a lot of the nutritional benefits of dates, making
it a healthier option. There’s no processing
so you get a pure, unrefined natural
sweetener.
NATURAL ALTERNATIVES TO SUGAR5
5907/2015
FUELJunk Food Revealed
WHY IS SUGAR SO BAD FOR YOU?
Many of us would struggle to give up sugar completely, but there are some natural alternatives
that you can use which will sweeten your food and drinks without the nasty side effects
f you are someone who enjoys pumping iron, then chances are you foster
ambitions to lift heavier weights, work out for longer periods and train more often. Whilst a well-structured training regime will
help you to achieve these aims, it will normally take a while to see the kind of results you are hoping for. Happily, there is a supplement available which can help you to get where you want to be that much quicker – glutamine.
I
A conditionally essential amino acid, glutamine leaves other supplements in the dust. Use it to build muscle fast.
Bo Heamyan rounds up glutamine’s posse of benefits
Glutamine reviews
6007/2015
FUEL Super Supplements
SHARP SHOOTING IMMUNITY
It is a fact that your immune system takes
a beating each and every time you perform a really strenuous workout in the gym. Suffice to say, you are far more likely to become infected with an illness when your immune system is running at a reduced capacity, an outcome which will probably keep you away from your workouts altogether, for a while at least. But could glutamine supplements be a proactive antidote? A study published in the highly regarded Nutrition Journal concluded ‘yes,’ with researchers suggesting that glutamine supplementation after intense exhaustive exercise can help to enhance the ability of the immune system to deal with the stress caused by a strenuous workout. Findings of this kind reinforce the thinking that, as well as restoring the health of muscle tissue, glutamine feeds into the immune system as well, thus ensuring swift post-workout recovery times for the body as a whole.
GUT FEELING
You may not find much said about it on most commercially available
supplement labels, but glutamine is actually one of the most important nutrients for your intestines. To be sure, few other amino acids have the ability to repair a ‘leaky gut’ quite as well as glutamine, as this conditionally essential amino acid has a rare talent for helping to maintain the structural integrity of the intestines. This benefit could be a game-changer.
OUTLAW ULCERS
There is even evidence to suggest this wonder
supplement can cure ulcers, with a reported 92 percent cure rate associated with a simple 1.6g supplementation taken each day over four weeks.
QUICKFIRE RECOVERY
Your muscles quickly become depleted of their glycogen
reserves after a weight lifting session – the faster you can replenish them, the quicker you’ll recover from your workout. Researchers from the Department of Anatomy and Physiology in the UK have discovered that adding a dose of glutamine to your post-workout drink can improve recovery. In fact, their studies showed that whole body nonoxidative glucose disposal in exhausted subjects was enhanced by a whopping 25 percent, thus proving that glutamine supplementation really can speed up the recovery process. Facilitating a speedy recovery will not only make you feel better straight after a workout, it will also increase your ability to incrementally build more muscle tissue, so it really is a very significant benefit indeed.
HIGH HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE
Glutamine increases your ability to secrete human growth hormone (HGH), one of the primary hormones
involved with synthesising new muscle mass. Studies published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition have shown that just 2g of glutamine supplementation can increase HGH, so it is apparent just how beneficial this can be to anyone who wants to focus on building muscle. Simply put, having the capability to metabolise body fat and support new muscle growth with such efficiency will maximise your chances of seeing better results from your muscle-building regime considerably. The usual line up of supplements in the stores is often quick off the mark to publicise their advantages in the gym. Many supplements also offer several health benefits, which are a welcome bonus to the faster muscle gains and longer workouts. Watch out supplements, there’s a new sheriff in town…
PAGE 62:Glutamine reviews
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FUELSuper Supplements
In a supplement stand off, it’s impossible to pick a winner. Here’s our line up of the most wanted in the stores
FUEL Super Supplements
The Sheriff The Deputy Sharp shooter Always on target
This rapidly absorbing powder from award winning brand MusclePharm is the sharpest shooter with its unique blend of three types of glutamine: L-glutamine, glutamine peptides and alanyl-L-glutamine, all of which aid muscle growth, recovery time and digestion. Trusted and supremely effective, this hits the target every time.
Micro-filtrated in Dymatize’s very own Sport GMP-certified facility, this clinically proven product is appreciated by athletes worldwide for its effective muscle recovery qualities and fast absorption benefits. Unlike most other glutamine powder offerings, DGM is available in 1,000g tubs, making it an extremely convenient bulk buy option.
Alongside being 100 percent pure, crystalline, highly micronized L-glutamine, Olimp’s Xplode also comes with the impressively named VIT-A-MIN SuperCharge formula, a combination which helps to ensure your physical effort brings about the fastest and most durable results. Available in three tasty flavours too: pineapple, lemon and orange.
As you would expect from the ultra-dedicated team at Scitec, this powder has been formulated to meet the very highest standards. Furthermore, the high-grade, 100 percent pure quality of the L-glutamine content ensures this powder is just right for anyone looking to cultivate the use of muscular force with fast results.
MusclePharm Glutamine
Dymatize Glutamine Micronized
Olimp Glutamine Xplode
Scitec 100% L- Glutamine Amino Acid
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT: AWARD WINNING BRANDRAPIDLY ABSORBEDTRIPLE BLENDPHARMACEUTICAL QUALITY
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT: ATHLETE’S CHOICEDISSOLVES QUICKLYFAMOUS WORLDWIDEBIGGER TUB FOR BULK BUYING
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT: FASTEST RESULTS100 PERCENT L-GLUTAMINEINNOVATIVE FORMULAAMAZING CITRUS FLAVOURS
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT: HIGH-QUALITY FORMULAHIGHEST STANDARDSTOP GRADE QUALITYNO ARTIFICIAL FLAVOURS
AVAILABLE FROM
THE GOOD, THE BAD,
6207/2015
FUELSuper Supplements
Hits The Spot First In Line In Command Demands Attention
Xtreme Glutamine is undoubtedly a very effective and well-rounded supplement indeed. Why? Well it’s simple really: this product contains some of the purest and most concentrated sources of amino acid around. As well as giving you a decent head start in terms of enhancing strength, recovery, endurance and muscle size, this ensures Xtreme Glutamine is one of the best quality for maximum potency.
With 10,000mg of the magic ‘8:1:1’ BCAA matrix and 4,000 mg of L-glutamine and glutamine precursors, BCAA 20K offers the heftiest BCAA dose (by far) of any commercial supplement product currently available. In addition to reducing catabolism by up to 80 percent, it can help to retain L-leucine in muscle cells (for anabolism), and prevent muscular decrements even at high cortisol levels.
Like its Gluta-Max stable-mate, this contains both glutamine and taurine. However, the boffins at MEX have also added active ingredients like creatine and beta-alanine into the mix for good measure. The result is immediate and impressive: you get a powerful pump, heightened levels of focus and concentration and evident increases in strength, energy and endurance. Be warned though: it’s pretty strong!
Many athletes feel they need to complement their L-glutamine intake with other supplements like taurine and creatine to ‘level the playing field’ in terms of their own glutamine bioavailability and speed of digestion. This MEX product contains a precise amount of synergistically acting taurine. This effectively makes Gluta-Max a complete muscle building product as it stimulates maximal cell volume and recovery all in one go.
FA Xtreme Glutamine
MEX BCAA 20K
MEX CGT+Beta Alanine
MEX Gluta-Max
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT: POWDER AND TABLETSCIENTIFICALLY BALANCEDMUSCLE ASSIMILATIONOPTIMISES RECOVERY
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT: MAGIC ‘8:1:1’ RATIO MIXES REALLY WELLHIGH QUALITY AMINOS WATERMELON IS AWESOME!
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT: EXTREMELY POTENTSTIMULANT-FREEPRE AND POST-WORKOUTRASPBERRY IS FANTASTIC
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
WHY YOU SHOULD USE IT:ALL-IN-ONE FORMULAFASTER MUSCLE SATURATIONSUSTAINED ACTIONPOTENT MUSCLE BUILDER
AVAILABLE FROM
AND THE
6307/2015
★ ★ ★ ★
ADIRON CUTS™
3-IN-1 FAT METABOLIZING & CUTTING AGENTACHIEVE A HARDER, DRYER, LEANER LOOK*• INCREASED THERMOGENESIS & FAT METABOLIZING* • MUSCLE HARDENING & CUTTING AGENT*• SUPPORTS HEALTHY ESTROGEN BALANCE & CORTISOL LEVELS*
LEGACYDEFINE YOUR
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BUILD YOUR LEGACY
6507/2015
If you want to try food that’s not only comforting, but also tasty and unique to make the most of your Cheat Day, we have something that’ll be right up your street…
STREETCHEAT DAY MEAL
ocated in Kuwait City, Street Al Makan pays homage to a cornucopia
of cuisines. Most notable on the menu however, is the myriad of Asian-inspired dishes specially crafted by talented local chef, Faisal Al Nashmi.
Start your Street experience with the 7-Hour Lamb and Chutney Bun: a dish of juicy strips of pulled lamb shoulder served in an Asian steamed bao bun with fresh fennel slaw, jalapeños and crispy fried shallots, peanuts and mint chutney yoghurt.
Main dishes include duck, ribs or fried chicken served with an egg rice donburi bowl. But to really make the most of your Cheat Day treat, go for the Argentinian Striploin served on a lush bed of coconut rice and delicious chimichurri sauce.
Finish on a flourish with the Oreo flavored ‘Whoopie’ or cream-filled donut. Then try to make it back to your car without stopping in at the Street’s café for a homemade ‘Snickers’ bar to eat on the way home. In a nutshell (excuse the pun) they’re just heavenly!
l
ABOUT THE AUTHORReshmi Revi is a NZCF certified personal trainer, fitness enthusiast and a foodie at heart. Follow her fit mischief on Instagram @q8missfit
Ramadan hours: Iftar to 1am daily. Normal hours: 12noon to 10.30pm daily.For more information contact them on +965 9696 4793. Follow them on Instagram at @st_almakan.
STREET IS LOCATED IN KUWAIT CITY ON MUBARAK AL KABEER STREET.
Homemade 'Snickers' Cream-filled donut
Argentinian striploin Duck and rice
CHEAT
FUELCheat Day
AD
6707/2015
LIVEMAKE YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY PERFECT
vACATIOnInSpIRATIOn
s the summer months approach, our thoughts often turn to travel. Whether you holiday for adventure,
culture or pure relaxation, we have five of the most luxurious locations on page 74 that just have to be seen to be believed. And why should your training suffer? Many cruise ships offer health facilities to rival the gyms back home – you can find a guide to the finest fitness ships on page 78 .
a
FIVE STARHOLIDAYS
BADERBOODAI
Exclusive interview with the founder of Oxygen Gym
The ultimate in luxury vacations around the globe
Train as you travel with 2015's healthiest cruises
68 74SHIP SHAPE
78
n inspirational man once proclaimed: “The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his
integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” This is an apt description of Mr. Bader Boodai. An incredible business mogul, he has not only successfully forged a solid bodybuilding empire with his Oxygen line of gyms in Kuwait, but has produced numerous champion athletes competing on an international level. Not only that, but this 44-year-old Kuwaiti has still managed to stay humble and grounded, despite his phenomenal recognition in the industry worldwide.
Perfect Fit Magazine is proud to present July’s cover star and get the lowdown on his story and his love for weightlifting…
a
President of the Kuwait Bodybuilding Federation, gym owner, business entrepreneur, father, contest prep coach, and mentor. Reshmi Revi meets Mr. Bader Boodai
OF BODYBUILDING
Photography by PhotokinaFollow Bader Boodai on Instagram @bader_boodai
6807/2015
LIVE Cover Star
People tend to think pros train differently and eat differently. They don’t; it’s just genetics“
6907/2015
LIVECover Star
WHAT WAS YOUR BUSINESS ENTERPRISE BEFORE OXYGEN?
I started with a children’s play centre in 1992, then I opened a mechanic establishment servicing luxury cars, and then I moved on to a hookah cafe in Mirqab.
WHEN WERE YOUR GYMS OPENED?
We officially opened Oxygen Adailiya in July 2004. Then Oxygen Riggae in 2006, Mangaf in 2008 and Oxygen Jabriya in 2011. We are currently preparing to open Oxygen Messilah in eight month’s time.
WHY WAS THE FOCUS GIVEN TO BODYBUILDING?
I started lifting in 1994 in a bid to fix my shoulder due to an injury from football, and ended up liking the sport. I was always in good shape and weightlifting helped to maintain my fitness levels and physique. In 2002 I decided I wanted to do business in this field. In my market studies, I found out that most gyms here were all about business and not about the sport itself. There was no knowledge about the foundation of gyms, the art of lifting and the passion for it. I even purchased a slew of bodybuilding videos but instead of checking out the athletes in the vids, I would check out the decor of the gym, its ambiance and the machines these IFBB Pros worked out on. I wanted to build a gym like the ones they have in the States. I went to the best gyms in America and studied them. Most people tend to define a ‘hardcore’ bodybuilding gym as a dirty place with antiquated and limited lifting equipment. I wanted to design a gym that was clean, set in a luxurious environment with all the right facilities and services plus a wide selection of weightlifting eqipment.
I feel a huge sense of responsibility to see my gym, my athletes, and my community succeed“70
07/2015
LIVE Cover Star
HOW DID THE FORMATION OF THE KUWAITI NATIONAL TEAM COME ABOUT?
Before Oxygen opened, Kuwait was the joke of the Gulf for bodybuilding. Nobody gave any recognition to our athletes. When I came on the scene, everyone was questioning: “Who is this guy?” I started bringing international pro bodybuilding athletes to Kuwait to guest pose but also to learn from them. I want my gym members to see how these athletes eat and train. Our national team was formed in 2010. At the start, I did it all on my own. I worked with a lot of Egyptian and Filipino athletes. When they competed abroad and did well, people started taking notice. Now when our athletes compete, we ace it at international shows. Kuwait now ranks number two in Asia and in the Middle East right after Iran. People are wanting Kuwaiti competitors to guest pose and will even pay for it.
IS IT TRUE THAT OLYMPIA AMATEUR WAS YOUR IDEA?
Yes, the Olympia Amateur was my idea. I queried with the people holding the Olympia rights how come they didn’t have an amateur level competition? It’s after all, one of the best competitions in the world. The first one was supposed to be in Qatar but due to a couple of technical difficulties, they shifted the event to London in 2012. After that I hosted the second event and they said it was one of the best Olympia Amateur shows ever. It was history in the making. 13 guest posers? That’s never happened before. I had athletes posing with other athletes and even a Men’s Physique athlete, Sadik Hadzovic, guest posing. That’s a first. Plus this was the only comp where two IFBB Pro cards were offered at the show. I like doing something differently in my shows.
WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR SUCCESS?
The trust from the people. Yes, I dreamed big. But now, not only being known in the Middle East but worldwide? Getting all this respect, trust and acknowledgment? I am very thankful as I never asked for this nor did I ever expect it.
WHY DO WORLDWIDE PRO ATHLETES LOVE TO TRAIN AT OXYGEN?
My goal is to provide a training facility that’s world class. People say the best gym in the world is Oxygen in Kuwait. Bodybuilding isn’t the same as it used to be in the 1990s in America. In Kuwait, the enthusiasm for bodybuilding is at an all-time high. Athletes like coming over because of the integrity of the gym. The respect for the sport here is better, the passion is better, the ambiance of the gyms is better. They know that they’ll perform and train better here.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PREPPING PRO AND AMATEUR ATHLETES?
People tend to think pros train differently and eat differently. They don’t; it’s just genetics. Big Ramy has been training for five years and Roelly Winklaar for 10 years. Ramy won the New York Pro with two and a half years of training and went to Olympia after only three years. It’s all one preparation. The difference is that on a pro level, if you make a mistake, it can be catastrophic.
7107/2015
LIVECover Star
Now everyone is talking about Ramy winning Olympia this year. How you prep an athlete is not just training; it’s branding and marketing. All of this put Kuwait on the map“
WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT ABOUT MANAGING YOUR EMPIRE?
Staying normal. It’s easy to lose your head when your life takes a turn for the better, you get a big name, the comps start getting more challenging, and you’re earning more money. I recover quickly from this. I get reminded of my roots. If you don’t, you’ll start doing things negatively. This applies to every business.
AS PRESIDENT OF THE KUWAIT FEDERATION, DO YOU FEEL RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIRECTION OF BODYBUILDING IN THIS COUNTRY?
Yes, I do feel responsible and recently not just for Kuwait. Now in all competitions, sometimes Arab competitors both in the Middle East and in every other country, will come to me and ask me to help. I am happy to help but it is also stressful at times.
WHY DO YOU THINK YOU’RE SO SUCCESSFUL?
Because I love what I do. It’s my passion. My vision was to have Oxygen gyms recognized as the best gyms in the Middle East. Three years after I had started, I wanted my gyms to be the best in the world. I do this all for my community and society. I feel a huge sense of responsibility to see my gym, my athletes, and my community succeed. Most of the people in the USA and Europe thought Kuwait was all about camels and war. But soon one by one, athletes who visited would talk about how we treated them, how hospitable we were. Now whenever someone says Kuwait and bodybuilding, people will automatically say Oxygen.
AT ROTTERDAM, YOU HAD 17 CHAMPIONS. IS THIS WHAT YOU HAD IMAGINED WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED OXYGEN?
I was confident we’d bring home gold for the amateur level competitions. The challenging thing about the pro leagues is that it’s predominantly genetics and a bit of knowledge. When Essa Obaid won his pro card, I said: “this guy’s career is over.” He was competing in the amateur leagues and winning but what’s he going to do now? Six months later Essa competed and he won. It fueled my passion. He’s from Dubai. In Dubai, there’s no proper gym. We have the best gym and everything at our disposal in our country. I just had to find the ‘diamond’ as we say. I found Ramy. I said: “We will win and shock the world.” We signed with Flex magazine for $1,000, which was nothing. He now has the third highest contract in the world. He went from not a lot of people knowing who he was to this persona you see today in just six months. Now everyone is talking about Ramy winning Olympia this year. How you prep an athlete is not just training; it’s branding and marketing. All of this put Kuwait on the map. This is what I wanted to do.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU IN TERMS OF PROJECTS?
I want to shift my story to the Gulf region.
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LIVE Cover Star
HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH NEGATIVE COMMENTS?
Three or four years ago, such comments would have hurt me. Now it is normal. In any industry you have negative and positive feedback. I tell the people, I still am learning. This sport gets harder by the year especially on a professional level. Any comments about me, is still recognition.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
Still the same but perhaps more advanced. I hope I’ll still have the trust of the people and educate the new generation.
CHRIS ACETO AND DAVE PALUMBO SAID THAT YOU’RE THE NEXT JOE WEIDER. WHAT DO YOU THINK?
I am grateful for that recognition. I still think I have nothing compared to Joe Weider and his contribution to the bodybuilding industry. All I know is that from the start, I wanted to do something different. When I have trust in myself and my actions, I know I am going to do something bigger and better.
CAN YOU TELL US THREE THINGS ABOUT YOURSELF THAT PEOPLE NORMALLY WOULDN'T KNOW?
➊ If I’m passionate about something, I will fight it to the end. I have no fear.
➋ I like life. Hence I joke around a lot. People tend to think it’s all about business.
➌ I’m a family man. I love being a father to my four kids.
Read the full version
of this interview at www.perfectfitm
agazine.com
I have trust in myself and my actions, I know I am going to do something bigger and better“
7307/2015
LIVECover Star
Whether you’re inspired by the sun, sea, shopping or safari, a vacation should be decadent. Kate Marshall has five of the most exclusive resorts for your next trip. The only problem? You won’t know which one to choose
LIVE Travel Guide
7407/2015
Five star VACATIONS
Singita – translated as
‘place of miracles’ – is a private game reserve in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park. This elite hotel is made up of lodges in a European colonial-meets-East African style, the best of which include their own infinity pool, formal dining area, authentic antiques and artefacts and of course, house staff. A four bedroomed villa in high season is around $7,500 (2,182KWD) per night. The desert sunrises and sunsets would be worth the fee alone, but with 350,000 acres of safari plus the chance to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, black rhinos and elephants, this really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
www.singita.com
FOR NATURE & ADVENTURE
T hat feeling of booking a holiday is
second to none – especially when you know you’re about to jet off to an exclusive resort for several weeks. For sheer and utter lavishness, plan your next vacation with these resort ideas in mind and take luxury to a whole new level.
LIVETravel Guide
7507/2015
The One and Only Royal Mirage Palace in
Dubai offers pure peace in a resplendent setting. With 231 guestrooms – including two Royal Suites – every room has an ocean view and includes a private balcony or terrace with ornamental Arabian arches. Take time out in the scented gardens or one of the magnificent swimming pools, or dine in style at one of the many restaurants offering authentic Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine. If you can tear yourself away, Dubai is known for its shopping, so be sure to pack your Perfect Fit style guide! For availability contact the hotel directly.
www.royalmirage.oneandonlyresorts.com
FOR OPULENCE & TRANQUILLITY
FOR PRIVACY & LUXURY
The Setai in Miami Beach, Florida is the epitome of Art Deco design.
The resort is located in the middle of South Beach’s tropical gardens. With Asian traditions, the Setai is an oasis of pools and palms. Suites offer views of the magnificent, original Art Deco buildings nearby, and include a handmade Swedish Duxiana king-sized bed, Frette linens, black granite bath, rainfall shower, Jacuzzi tub, high definition LED TVs, 24-hour in-suite dining and even bespoke perfumes made in London exclusively for Setai guests. Oceanfront suites start at $3,375 (982KWD) per night per person.
www.thesetaihotel.com
FOR HISTORY & DECADENCE
Cap Juluca in Maundays Bay lies on the Southwest coast of Anguilla
overlooking the St. Maarten Mountains. Situated amidst 179 acres of awe inspiring landscape, it’s prized for the 4km of sandy, white beaches that offer sheer exclusivity and can be accessed by their very own boat charter. Even the ‘standard’ rooms provide a king-sized bed, marble showers, terrace, solarium and Caribbean-inspired interiors. But for the ultimate in luxury, opt for a three or five bedroomed private villa with its own pool, domed ceiling, private bedroom suites and even a butler. Prices available on request.
www.capjuluca.com
Calivigny Island, off the south coast of Grenada, is a breathtaking
mix of pure white beaches and crystal clear waters. In the private cottages, you’ll be presented with ornate marble bathrooms, spiral staircases, Persian rugs, and furniture by top designer, Oscar de la Renta. It couldn’t get more decadent – but it does – with a salon, gym, swimming pools and a five-star kitchen that offers French, Italian and local menus. You’ll be looked after impeccably by the staff, who are on call 24/7. Prices start from $30,000 (8,730KWD) per night for a humble two-bedroom cottage.
www.calivigny-island.com
FOR LANDSCAPE & RELAXATION
LIVE Travel Guide
7607/2015
Cruise ships are offering health conscious passengers a way to travel and
keep an active lifestyle. Aimee Joseph guides us through the five best health
cruises for fun, food and fitness
ALL ABOARDTHE FITNESS CRUISE
LIVE Sports On Sea
7807/2015
ith the shocking statistic that the average person gains 0.5kg (1lb) a day
during a cruise, it seems they’re not really well suited for men who like to watch their waistline. Cruises are typically associated with extravagant meals and the most luxurious type of food of all varieties on offer all day, every day, so it’s pretty clear why many people gain excess weight whilst vacationing. However, cruises are one of the best ways to see the world, so why miss out just because you’re health conscious? The fitness centres on cruises are growing in size to accommodate active passengers, but what makes your workout really special is having access to state-of-the-art equipment and 180-degree sea views. This means you can make the most of your time at sea and never miss a workout, then enjoy the stops at your various destinations without guilt – and looking ripped.
W PRINCESS GRANDCLASS CRUISES
The Lotus Spa fitness centres on the Princess Grand
Class cruises are positioned at the front of the ship with dazzling 180-degree views of the ocean. The gyms are kitted out with the very latest modern gym equipment, including personal televisions for entertainment, but it’s not just the fitness centre that makes the Princess cruise so special. The line offers an exclusive fitness program called ‘Core. Balance. Strength.’ This is described as “specialised classes, nutritional guidance, and lifestyle counselling to help you cultivate a more balanced lifestyle.” The program focuses specifically on three fitness areas: Pilates classes to build and strengthen your core, yoga to help you develop a deeper mind/body connection and cardio classes to build fitness and stamina. The cardio classes include a ‘Tour de Cycle’: a three course spinning workout. You can also receive personal training whilst on board and join the deck workouts that turn the outside decks into a high-energy fitness party.
REVIEW
The Grand Princess is the high standard you would expect from a 4 star cruise. There is nothing that can be faulted, from the delicious food served every evening, to the great service from all the staff on board. On sea days there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied; you can play a game of golf up on the top deck, have lunch at the deli at the piazza, or watch a movie at the pool.
LIVESports On Sea
7907/2015
❝
REVIEW❝
REVIEW❝
SEABOURN’S ODYSSEY
Seabourn Odyssey was one of the first luxury ships designed
with the health conscious in mind since fitness became mainstream. The engineers incorporated a contemporary two deck spa and fitness centre, fusing traditional exercise and cutting-edge fitness services to help you discover the results-driven exercise your body needs to look and feel its best. The ships offer a wide variety of free classes including Pilates and yoga as well as state of the art gym equipment. The most distinctive feature is the Kinesis wall, which uses special technology to create a series of pulleys and cables to increase flexibility, define muscles and provide rehabilitation if necessary, whilst causing less stress
P&O CRUISES’VENTURA
on the body than traditional machines. Up to four people can use the Kinesis wall at once but you can also book private Kinesis sessions if you prefer.
P&O Cruises have won many awards over the past few years
due to offering great entertainment and activities. This European cruise has a fitness centre and spa worth boasting about, but what sets the P&O Ventura ships apart are the fun interactive fitness activities available on board. The Ventura offers the newest cutting-edge indoor cycling, Tixter Bikes. These bikes have movable handlebars that mimic real-world biking and cycling routines via video, displaying scenic roadways from the Scottish Highlands to deserts, highways and city centres. One of the best features of the cruise ships is the swimming pool out on deck, where you can test your fitness by swimming against the current machine.
Seabourn Odyssey has the second highest passenger space ratio in the cruise industry – only that of the expedition ship 50 Years of Victory is greater – so passengers will never feel crowded. For stargazing, the hot tub located by the ship’s bow is a delight, and it’s dimly lit and peaceful.
The food is delicious, varied and plentiful. The chefs and maître d’ are so helpful if you have a food allergy and make every effort to provide safely prepared dishes every night. The decor is beautiful, the entertainment is superb, and there are loads of shore excursions to choose from. Staff are helpful and happy, nothing is too much trouble. All the public areas are immaculate, with staff constantly (but discreetly) tidying, painting and cleaning.
LIVE Sports On Sea
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REVIEW❝
ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S FREEDOMOF THE SEAS AND OASIS OF THE SEAS
‘Freedom’ and ‘Oasis’ are voted as having the best on-board
fitness facilities in the industry, with their ships being the only ones to offer on-board surfing, boxing and ice-skating. The ships host almost 3,000 sq m (9,700 sq ft) fitness centres, including state-of-the-art cardio machines, weight training and circuit-training machines, and a ‘ShipShape Center’ which features spinning bikes, a Pilates studio with six reformer machines and a well-equipped boxing ring with speed bags, jump ropes, heavy bags and padded punching mitts. Group classes are also available for those who need motivating when working out, and you can choose from a wide variety of exercises such as aerobics, yoga, Pilates, tai chi and many more.
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE’S PRIDE OF AMERICA
The Pride of America is a fitness cruise dedicated to off-board
activities, ranging from hiking through rainforests and learning to surf, to riding the slopes of a dormant volcano and kayaking through a wildlife refuge. The Norwegian cruise isn’t for the faint hearted but it’s definitely a must for those who love action packed trips. This ship is the only one to sail year round, with seven night cruises to the Hawaiian Islands such as Maui, Kauai, Kona and Honolulu; so if you’ve always wanted to visit Hawaii, and you love high impact activities, this is ideal.
The Oasis is superb in every way, offering everything from over 25 dining options, to a carousel, a zip line, and a park! If you like adventure, activity, and great food then this is the ship for you. I recommend this ship to my travel clients who want to be majorly ‘wowed.’
We had a great cruise with POA through four of the Hawaiian Islands. There was lots of entertainment, and an abundance of terrific food, with no set times or seating. The on shore trips were plentiful in choice, or you could book anything easily from other tour groups once you landed in any of the ports. A terrific way to see some spectacular parts of the Hawaiian Islands.
REVIEW❝
LIVESports On Sea
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Olympia Mall- 1st Floor22268677
NEW BRANCH OPENING SOONArraya Center - Sharq
CAMPIONE
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STYLETAKING YOUR STYLE ON TOUR
TRAvel FAShIOnt’s time to pack your passport, shake off your shorts and shine up your shades. Vacation time is
a great excuse for a wardrobe makeover. Check out the guide to the marine style from Campione on page 86 , but don't stuff your new clothes into old and tired luggage. Your baggage should be every bit as stylish as the belongings inside – and we have all the inspiration you need on page 84 .
i
NEW TREND ALERT
Hottest fashion trend of 2015 – the marine style
FASHION FIVE:BAG IT UP
Travel with style – check out these check-in essentials
TECH ON TOUR
All the gadgets you need for an amazing holiday
84 86 91
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BAgSOF
STYle
with the extremely extensive, versatile and trendy choice of
travel goods available to the male traveller, there’s an option for everyone in the luggage department. Whether you’re going away on an international holiday, a business trip or a beach trip with friends, a selection of suitable clothes must accompany you on your journey. Whatever type of traveller you are, make sure your vacation wardrobe is packed away in style.
Sourcing the perfect travel bag has become as important as the stylish clothes inside it, as luggage is now considered a fashion item in its own right. Kate Marshall has five of the best
STYLE Fashion Five
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THE DUFFEL BAGPerfect for a weekend away at the beach, this sensible
bag can be thrown into the boot of the jeep with ease thanks to its lightweight material. In place of wheels, locks and chunky zips, its full length zip will allow simple access to your swimmers, flip flops and sun cream, whenever you want it. A brown leather Barbour or Mulberry will go down a treat. Alternatively, opt for the ultimate Louis Vuitton chic classic.
THE BACKPACKYes, it’s true, the backpack can be stylish. Made
from leather or light canvas material – and very easy to carry – the rucksack is a fantastic companion for a night away when you want to pack light. Positioned on the back, it keeps your hands free for enjoying a coffee and a newspaper at the airport terminal. It wins hands down on the practical front. With a pouch at the front for small precious items that can be kept safe, it offers lots of space and is surprisingly comfortable, provided it’s not overloaded. A tried and tested Eastpak is a safe bet,
but if you’re wanting to top the trend factor with an 11 out of 10, opt for a Herschel or Moschino backpack to hit high in the style stakes.
THE MAN BAGOnce mocked by the masses, the man bag is now
a firm favourite with those who wish to travel light. Celebrities such as David Beckham, Brad Pitt and Hugh Jackman have all been spotted sporting one of these at the airport en route to a vacation or business trip. Small, medium or large, these stylish yet practical bags fit snugly over the shoulder and provide easy access to travel essentials such as your passport, wallet, iPad and iPhone. Armani, Hugo Boss and Diesel produce beautiful black leather numbers that will suit any casual flying outfit and every season.
THE TOTE BAGThis is fantastic for carrying all your bits and bobs
around with you – a toiletry bag and towel for the beach, or your laptop and files if you’re on a business trip. Often described as an oversized shopping bag, it’s effectively a giant pocket with long straps that sit over the shoulder, so it’s also comfortable to manage. Lightweight and suitable for any look, it’s hugely popular in canvas or suede. Alexander McQueen, Fendi and Kenzo provide a range of stunning yet practical styles fit for business and pleasure.
THE SUITCASEFrequent flyers should consider a collection of
hard case suitcases. While you can’t ram unlimited items of clothing into a capped space, it will certainly keep the contents neat and tidy and its robust, solid exterior will provide the ultimate protection over a long haul flight. And the wheels? Apart from whizzing to check out in a rush of course, they will save your back. The sleek and futuristic metal Rimowa hard case is one of the coolest on the market right now, but if you’re going for traditional, then sturdy, durable brands like Antler and Samsonite are winners every time.
STYLEFashion Five
BROWN BARBOUR BAG
EASTPAK'S CLOUD RUCKSACK
ARMANI'S LEATHER SHOULDER BAG
FENDI'S RUNWAY
2015 COLLECTION
RIMOWA'S CLASSIC FLIGHT 4-WHEEL
CABIN CASE
THE BOYS IN BLUE
When putting together a summer wardrobe, you
can never go wrong with blue. Navy is always the smarter option, while lighter shades complement cloudless skies and ocean waves; perfect for a vacation wardrobe. Mix up the tones to prevent your outfit resembling a uniform. A light blue pair of trousers with a darker top and deck shoes is a very modern look. Add a cap and shades and you wouldn’t look out of place in any of the world’s most luxurious marinas.
Whether you are planning a vacation at home or abroad, head down to Campione for some marine-inspired clothing this summerModelled by Ali Al Arbash. Styling by Donna Afuni. Photography by Photokina
TIP: MIX UP THE SHADES SO YOUR
OUTFIT DOESN'T LOOK LIKE A
UNIFORM!
STYLE Trend Alert
MARINE STYLE
In association with Campione. Store location: Olympia Mall, 1st Floor, Kuwait
THIS LOOK IS PERFECT FOR AN EVENING MEAL AND STROLL
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CLASSIC COLOUR COMBO
As it’s the best colour to show off your suntan, a
crisp, white t-shirt should always be the first thing you pack in your suitcase before heading off on holiday. White is a fresh and smart addition to any outfit, and wearing a light colour in hot weather will keep you cool. This combination of red, white and blue is the classic nautical look at its best. Opting for the shoes in red creates a stylish element to the outfit that will certainly not fail to impress.
THE RED SUEDE SHOES ADD A NEW ELEMENT TO A CLASSIC OUTFIT
CHOOSE A POLO SHIRT OVER CREW
NECK TEE FOR A SMART OCCASION
STYLETrend Alert
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Blue and ecru will always look good on
holiday and at home. A nod to nature, this combination mimics the colours of sand and sea, and makes us think of exotic beaches and sunny shorelines. A top tip when putting together an outfit is to keep your colour palette simple. Here, the colour of the trousers has been matched to the printing on the t-shirt, which makes a casual, holiday ensemble still look well thought out and put together. The tonal canvas sneakers tie it all in for another great look.
SHORELINE STYLE
STYLE Trend Alert
PULL YOUR OUTFIT TOGETHER BY USING A SIMPLE COLOUR PALETTE
HAVE SOME FUN WITH YOUR
FOOTWEAR. SHOES ARE THE
FIRST THING PEOPLE NOTICE!
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CLUB CAMPIONE
This year the yacht/polo/golf club look is HUGE.
Whether on land or at sea, make sure you have several striped polo shirts in your closet this summer. This look is perfect if you like colour and want to stand out from the crowd. The best thing about this kind of outfit is that it is casual enough for daytime wear and smart enough for the evening. Experiment with colours and make sure your accessories hit the mark. Match shorts, shoes, belt and cap to your favourite tones from the top half. Add some shades and you’re ready to set sail…
STYLETrend Alert
USE THE HOOPED SHIRT AS THE BASE OF THIS LOOK, THEN PICK OUT SOME ACCENT COLOURS FOR THE SHORTS AND SHOES. EVEN THE TATTOO GOES WITH THE OUTFIT!
THIS IS CAMPIONE AT ITS BEST;
STRAIGHT OFF THE YACHT AND
INTO THE CLUB
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TECH ON TOURVacations give us the chance to finally kick back and relax… yet many
of us find ourselves bored after the first five minutes. Luckily, Luke Haward has 15 gadgets to load up on before we set off, to make sure our time
away is never dull
PEBBLE STEELWWW.GETPEBBLE.COM
Smartwatches are finally starting to look – as well
as think – smart, and this iPhone-compatible offering from Pebble delivers a simple, strong design with everything you need, including email and updates in simple display, music and a host of apps. It even has a seven-day battery life – perfect for your travels.
AIRPORT EXPRESS WWW.APPLE.COM
Straight from the Apple store, this little wireless
Internet device plugs intothe wall and can be shared with friends or neighbours. Connect multiple devices to your cable network wirelessly, or extend your existing Wi-Fi network’s range, print andplay music wirelessly.
LEICA CWWW.LEICA-CAMERA.COM
This intensely fashionable snappy
digital camera comes from a prestigious brand indeed.It looks like a timeless classic, while being an ultra-modern device. With a 12.1-megapixel sensor, a 3-inch LCDand a focal range of28-200mm, it’s also powerful and versatile.
TRACKSTICK IIWWW.TRACKSTICK.COM
This tiny, unassuming USB stick handles far
more than just GPS tracking. Compatible with Google Earth and Google Maps, this is also an excellent offline guidance option. Photos can be geo-tagged and then shared on flickr using Wi-Fi to make all your friends at home jealous – surely the best part of any vacation?!
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STYLEGear & Gadgets
STERIPEN FREEDOM SOLAR BUNDLEWWW.STERIPEN.COM
If you’re venturing into regions with dubious
water quality, this lightweight UV water purifier makes water safe to drink in under a minute and can purify 40 litres from one charge. This tech is proven to eliminate over 99.99 percent of all bacteria and viruses causing water-borne illness.
The Space Pack is a snap on case with a difference
– it gives an instant boost of up to 100 percent battery life. Not only that, but it brings with it 64 gigabytes of extra storage space, for movies, music, photo storage and a wide variety of other file types. It’s available for iPhone, iPad and Samsung Galaxy models.
MOPHIE SPACEPACK WWW.MOPHIE.COM
INTEL BASIS PEAKWWW.MYBASIS.COM
Intel is calling its latest innovation ‘the ultimate
in fitness and sleep tracking.’ This smartwatch monitors your heart rate, and also your sleep cycles including REM. With a touchscreen made from Gorilla Glass 3, a four-day battery life, Android and iOS compatibility and wireless connectivity, this really is the business.
LENOVO THINKPAD X1WWW.LENOVO.COM
This ultra-slim and lightweight top of the range laptop is
perfect for travel – and this particular model has won numerous awards. The 14-inch device weighs just 1.28kg and comes with an Intel Core i7-4550U Processor. It also possesses a patented cooling system and adaptive keyboard.
TRAKDOTWWW.TRAKDOT.COM
This ingenious device ensures that you’ll never
be left wondering where your luggage might be again! Perfect for those times when you have some serious valuables in cargo. Simply sync the device with any cell phone and track it using an app, without need for GPS.
AAXA M2 MICRO PROJECTOR WWW.AAXATECH.COM
This micro projector is causing quite a storm.
A truly pocket sized product, it looks great and will project DVD-quality imagery from your smartphone, laptop or tablet via USB. With 110 lumensof brightness, this is the perfect tool for entertaining your children, giving a business presentation or escaping the family to watch a movie!
STYLE Gear & Gadgets
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INTEL BASIS PEAK
TRAKDOTAAXA M2 MICRO PROJECTOR
This compact global translator works with 20
different languages, including of course both Arabic and English. Choose written or audible functions to aid communication when travelling around the globe.
LINGOVOYAGER 7WWW.AMAZON.COM
This simple but startling innovation presents its
woven elastic ‘retention system’ for insertion into laptop or travel bags, which helps firmly organise and store a myriad of electronic equipment and other possessions. The intuitive functionality is clear at a single glance.
GRID-IT ORGANISER BUNDLE WWW.AMAZON.COM
GOOGLE GLASSWWW.GOOGLE.COM/GLASS
Originally mooted for 2014 release, the consumer
edition of this wearable tech is just around the corner and anticipation could not be hotter. Some features have proven controversial, such as the instant photo option, but this remains one of the most eagerly awaited bits of kit of the decade.
BOSE QUIETCOMFORT 20WWW.BOSE.COM
Looking for some stylish noise-cancelling
headphones that you don’t need to strap over your head? Look no further! These possess tech to rival any full-sized headphones, and carry an inline microphone for use with your iPhone as an added bonus. Switch in and out of noise-cancelling mode as desired.
FULLY BOOKED TENTWWW.AMAZON.COM
This beautiful offering from the UK redesigns
the modern tent to look exactly like a classic book left open on the floor. A cunning design combined with expedition tent standards makes this a perfect stylish look for the serious adventurer. It’s UV fade resistant, and larger than the average two-man tent.
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STYLEGear & Gadgets
ADEL AMER
AGE: 33
Adel is 33 years old and a judo champion. His most
significant achievement was taking first place in a contest
in Egypt. He comes to the gym to help support his judo.
Instagram: @adel_judo3yahoo
MOHAMED AL QALLAF AGE: 29
29-year-old Mohamed comes to the gym to stay fit and healthy. Looks like it's working!
YOUR
WORKOUTMeet the real stars of Perfect Fit... YOU!Meet the real stars of Perfect Fit... YOU!
Join the Perfect Fit fitness community on InstagramFollow us on @pfmShare your photos #mypfmag!
Join the Perfect Fit fitness community on InstagramFollow us @pfmagShare your photos #mypfmag
YOUR
WORKOUT
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COOL DOWN Your Workout
29-year-old Mohamed comes to the gym to stay fit and healthy. Looks like it's working!
OSAMA HOSNY AGE: 40
FAISAL AL GABANDI
AGE: 46
Faisal is 46 years old and comes to the
gym to stay fit and also to relax.
SERGEY PROSVIRKIN AGE: 27 Sergey played volleyball at school and university. Now 27 years old, he comes to the gym to feel good about himself. Instagram: @sergeypro87
ALI MOHAMMED HIEBA
AGE: 35
Platinum coach Ali works out daily at the gym.
An avid boxer, he has taken first place three times
in the African boxing championship.
Instagram: @ali_alitrainer81
Osama is proof you can be fit in your forties! He comesto the gym to stay healthy and to support his training asa wrestler. His best achievement is taking the trophy in theArab Wrestling Championship. Instagram: @osamashor
YOUR
WORKOUTYOUR
WORKOUT
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COOL DOWNYour Workout
OMAR ADEL ELMANFALOTY
AGE: 23
At just 23 years old, Omar has already taken 6th
place in the 2014 O2 Physique contest and qualified
as top 15 in last year's O2 Competition. He trains
to compete and aspires to make it internationally.
Instagram: @big__roma
Ali is 28 years old and a model. He works out to stay fit
and look good in photoshoots. Here's another snap for
the portfolio! Instagram: @alii87
FAISAL BAHMAN AGE: 27
27-year-old Faisal is a photographer. He works out to stay'picture perfect' fit and maintain his overall health.Instagram: @faisalbahJoin the Perfect Fit fitness community on Instagram
Follow us on @pfmShare your photos #mypfmag!
Join the Perfect Fit fitness community on InstagramFollow us @pfmagShare your photos #mypfmag
ALI HASAN
AGE: 28
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COOL DOWN Your Workout
ABDULLAH AL ALI AGE: 36
Abdullah is 36 years old and trains to keep fit. Going to the gym regularly is his favourite hobby.
MESHARI AL JRAIED
AGE: 39
Meshari had been into sports for over half of his life!
He joined Kuwait's national basketball team when
he was just 15 years old, and now working out
is a major part of his life.
Instagram: @meshari_aljarid1
MOHAMMED AL HASAWI AGE: 32
32-year-old Mohammed trains to stay fit and healthy. He is also a keen endurance runner and took 3rd place
in the Arabian Gulf athletic marathon race. Instagram: @m_burnnin
AHMED AL JADI
AGE: 26
Ahmed has been working out for nine years since he was just
17 years old. Coming to the gym is now part of his lifestyle.
He trains to stay fit and it is definitely paying off!
Instagram: @ahmed17818
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COOL DOWNYour Workout
A WORLD OF WEIRD
COMING UP...
08/15MAGNIFICENT MMAHow to train like UFC, the history of MMA, and Georges St-Pierre
SHOULDER STRATEGYDevelop your delts in less than three months with August's 12-week plan
Exclusive Q&A with the star
coach of the Kuwaiti
National Team
PROFILE OFMR. ABDULLAH
AL OTAIBY
THE WARRIOR WORKOUTTrain like the cast of 300 with a king-sized workout to make Leonidas proud
CHAIN REACTIONThe benefits of BCAAs, which brands to buy and where to find them
Known for their bizarre gadgets and gizmos,
the Japanese have come up with a truly original way to lose weight. Based on the research that people find blue foods the least appetising, a Japanese company has invented blue tinted sunglasses to wear whilst eating your food. Is this how Johnny Depp always stays so trim?
An age-old Spanish festival tradition of human
tower building has recently seen a resurgence in Catalonia. Requiring unbelievable strength and balance, a human tower – known as a castell – can often reach ten levels of people and there have even been two recorded fatalities from people falling from their places.
JAPAN SPAIN
Trampolines have been used in fitness for many years,
but it’s usually a solitary pursuit. Bossaball takes place on a giant trampoline on the beach where two teams are pitted against each other to the sound of Latin American music. The sport combines football, volleyball, dance and of course, jumping up and down!
BRAZIL
Many worry about missing the gym while on vacation.Here are some of the craziest of crazes from around the
globe to make you feel less guilty while you're away...
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COOL DOWN Virtual Insanity
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