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Best Equipment To Add To Your Home Gym

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Due to the pandemic, many regular gym-goers and fitness buffs have had to settle for a home gym set-up. To maintain physique and not lose exercise progress, they’ll need the best equipment at home. In this article, know the 15 best home gym equipment for any workout and fitness level. 

For those who have yet to start their fitness journey, all the equipment included here is beginner-friendly too!

1. BWSS Adjustable Dumbbell Core

Dumbbells are a great way to strengthen your upper body and tone your muscles. But as you move up a weight, you’ll need a new set of dumbbells. It can become expensive if you buy individual dumbbell weights. 

You can save money by purchasing something like the BWSS Adjustable Dumbbell Core. Basically, by using this dumbbell, you can simply adjust the weight without needing iron plates or free weights. It’s why many consider this one of the best home gym equipment.

The weights range from 5 lbs to 45 lbs.

Price: $399

2. Power Block Pro 50 Series

Here’s another dumbbell you can use at home. Like the BWSS one, the Power Block Pro 50 Series is adjustable. It also has an auto-lock function keeping the weights in place. This one has more increments than the BWSS as you can do some curls or lifts up to 90 lbs.

Price: Starts at $439

3. Yoga Zeal 

Even if you don’t do yoga, a yoga mat is necessary for most workouts. But you need a non-slip yoga mat whenever you’re doing push-ups or lunges. And any of the Yoga Zeal mats would do just the trick. Whether you’re doing hot yoga or an intense workout, you’ll have much more grip on the mat even when you’re sweating.

Aside from that, it uses eco-friendly and biodegradable materials too! To care for it, you can either hand wash it or use a washing machine. 

Price: $79 to $145

4. TRX All-in-One Suspension Training Fitness System

The TRX All-in-One Suspension is ideal for any workout. Anyone can use this equipment, from beginners to fitness buffs. It improves movement and strength. Plus, it can tone your lower and upper body and core. You can even do some resistance training using these.

Many consider this one of the best home gym equipment because of its portability. As for safety usage, they have locks that will ensure you won’t slip while you do any workouts.

Price: $169.95

5. Fit Simplify Resistance Bands

Many reviewers rave over the Fit Simplify Resistance Bands. Not only is it inexpensive, but it is also sweat, snap, and stretch resistant. So, you can expect to have this for a long time. It’s also lightweight, so you can workout anywhere. Plus, it’s also comfortable on the skin.

A set on Amazon comes with five resistance bands ranging from extra light to extra heavy. The set comes in handy as you work towards better control and strength as well.

Price: $7.95 to $10.95

6. Crossrope Get Fit

What makes Crossrope Get Fit different from others is it has a clip system. This means you can switch between different weighted ropes. And unlike the fabric ones, you won’t have to worry about tangles with the Crossrope Get Fit set. It’s all because of the steel cable. That’s why many consider this as one of the best home gym equipment pieces to own.

You can buy your Get Fit set on the official website. Make sure to choose the right length for your height, which you can do before adding it to your cart.

Price: $238

7. Theraband Exercise and Stability Ball

An exercise and stability ball is useful in core workouts. Plus, it improves your posture and mobility. As such, many love using the Theraband Exercise and Stability Ball. It does the job and won’t deflate quickly as compared to its competitors. You will need a pump once this gets delivered to your home.

Also, the exercise ball can double as your office chair at home. It engages your core while you work. At least if you can’t spare a few minutes to workout, the ball can give you the exercise you need for the day.

Price: $29.95

8. AmazonBasics Medicine Ball

Medicine balls are another option to improve your posture. And the AmazonBasics Medicine Ball is helping achieve that goal. You can grip it easily and bounce it anywhere. Plus, it’s durable too.

It comes in different weights from 4 lbs to 20 lbs. You have to buy each weighted med ball separately from Amazon.

Price: $22.99 to $46.99

9. Trigger Point Grid Original Foam Roller

Many swear by foam rollers because of its versatility. It can aid your core workout or help in recovering when you’re sore. It can even aid in circulation. 

The Trigger Point Grid Foam Roller has become the best companion for many fitness buffs. It’s durable and acts as a massager.

Price: $34.99

10. JaxJox KettlebellConnect 2.0

Kettlebells are another alternative to dumbbells. And for the advanced gym regulars, kettlebells have become part of their workout routines. One of the best kettlebells they can use is the JaxJox Kettlebell Connect 2.0.

There’s no need to buy different kettlebell weights because it’s adjustable. Plus, it’s also digital, so you don’t have to lock it manually. Switch between 6 lb increments, it will do the job for you.

To get more out of this, download the JaxJox app too. It tracks metrics like movements, heart rate, and fitness level. Even if it’s a hefty price for a kettlebell, many still consider this as one of the best home gym equipment they have.

Price: $229

11. Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull Up Bar and Portable Gym System

Pull-ups are great for upper body strength. And you can set one up at home by installing it on the doorframe. And one great example that many love using is the one from Perfect Fitness. It comes in three different sizes, depending on the space of your doorway.

It’s also versatile, so you can use this one on the floor too. Challenge yourself by using this when doing sit-ups and push-ups.

Price: $24.78 to $44.99 (depending on which pull up bar you’re getting)

12. Bowflex SelectTech 5.1S Stowable Bench

For those who practice weight training, a bench is a necessary piece of equipment. The Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Bench is one of the best. This one’s ideal for small apartments. You can stow it away when you’re not using it, saving you 50% of space.

It has six different variations in terms of angles, ranging from 30 degrees to flat and a -20 degree-decline. The seats are also comfortable and can hold up to 272 kg of weight.

Price: $329

13. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Air Walk Trainer Elliptical

Here’s another space saver gym machine you can have at home. The Sunny Health & Fitness elliptical is a piece of must-have equipment for all fitness levels. It’s great for a whole body workout.

You won’t have difficulty with the grip, thanks to the non-slip pedals. Plus, you can track your distance and time because of the LCD monitor. It also has an abdominal pad for support.

Price: $104.24

14. NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill

A treadmill is another must-have home gym equipment. And if you’re also looking for one that’s foldable and compact, go for the NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill. Once you buy this treadmill, you have one-month free access to iFit. It’s a personalized training membership.

Love to run with music? Connect it by using the auxiliary port and blast your favorite tunes as you run. Plus, you have access to more than 16,000 workouts and monitor your stats every time you step on that treadmill.

Price: $599

15. Peloton Bike

The Peloton bike has skyrocketed in popularity because of the infamous Peloton woman. However, it hasn’t stopped potential customers from buying one. 

This bike is perfect for your cardio training. You can watch the best instructors in the comfort of your home. Plus, you can have access to all workout videos and features by signing up for a membership. It’s one of the best home gym equipment because of its inclusions and value for money.

The bike doesn’t take too much space as well, so if you live in a small apartment, you can definitely have this at home.

Price: Starting from $1895

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Lifestyle

10 Best Banh Mi Restaurants In and Around Tulsa

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banh mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese street food sensation that is taking Tulsa, Oklahoma, by storm. It is a fantastic cacophony of textures and flavors that will make you crave it soon after your first bite. But with so many options in and around Tulsa, how will you know which is for real? This guide will help you filter down your choices and get the best crispy baguettes bursting with flavor bombs to tantalize your taste buds.

1. Paris Banh Mi

paris banh mi website

Tulsa foodies can now enjoy the best “Baguette Banh Mi” taste from Paris Banh Mi Cafe Bakery, which opened their first store in Orlando, Florida. Their French baguettes with savory fillings, pickled veggies, and fragrant herbs will hook you into coming back for more. Using only authentic ingredients and meticulous attention, Paris Banh Mi Cafe Bakery raised the bar for the Banh Mi scene in the area.

Head on over to 9311 East 71st Street to get their crusty Vietnamese perfections, which hold flavor explosions that are simply unmatched. Don’t miss out on their grand opening on March 16!

The Paris Banh Mi’s franchise is quickly growing in the United States. If you’re interested in opening a franchise, visit their franchising opportunity page for more info.

2. Lo Banh Mi Viet Hot Bread

lo banh mi

Wonderfully seasoned fillings inside crispy baguettes, you can never go wrong with Banh Mi from our second contender, Lo Banh Mi Viet Hot Bread. Located in East Tulsa, this Banh Mi haven is also home to many other delectable Vietnamese fares, which include Ga Nuong Trung (grilled chicken with fried egg), Xa Xiu (Chinese BBQ pork), and a wide array of boba and coffee drink options.

3. Banh Mi & You

banh mi and you

Offering a wide selection of meat combinations in their Banh Mi, Banh Mi & You is a Vietnamese specialty food truck that deserves its place on this list. Their baguettes are steaming hot, and their fillings boast the perfect amount of deliciousness. If you’re looking for a culinary adventure on wheels, this is it. The only thing many foodies complain about this place is the menu, which does not have English translations. You can call their number (918) 932-0422 to find their next location.

4. Lone Wolf Banh Mi

lone wolf banh mi

Specializing in Vietnamese food, ice cream, and frozen yogurt, Lone Wolf Banh Mi has one of the most authentic Banh Mis in the whole of Tulsa. It has an 8-inch baguette filled with English cucumber, pickled daikon and carrot slaw, jalapeño, cilantro, and many others. It is served with a side of cinnamon sugar wonton chips, which makes it even more appetizing. Also not to be missed on their menu are Kung Pao Pork, Vegan Fired Chicken, Calamari, and Blood Orange Pork Belly.

5. Project BMB (Bánh Mì Boba)

project bmb banh mi boba

Get your Banh Mi and Boba tea fix in Project BMB (Bánh Mì Boba), located at E 71st Street. Their traditional Vietnamese sandwich goes perfectly well with their authentic boba drink from Taiwan. They brew their teas every four hours to ensure freshness each time you order. You’ll get your baguettes fresh and hot, as they make them every 30 minutes. Other popular menu fares include Grilled Pork Sandwich, Pate Bacon Vietnamese Sandwich, and Veggie Tofu Sandwich.

6. Phở V-Nam & Bánh Mì

pho v nam and banh mi

While you’ll find many positive reviews about their Pho, Phở V-Nam & Bánh Mì offers Banh Mi that would make any sandwich fanatic fall in love. It is a mouth-watering mix of a crispy exterior and fluffy interior with its fresh-baked baguette, authentic ingredients, and traditional preparation methods. You’ll enjoy its savory fillings made with grilled pork, pate, and pickled vegetables. Also on E 71st Street, this Banh Mi place in Tulsa has a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. 

7. Pho & Japanese Sushi

pho and japanese sushi

Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine are some of the world’s most delectable, and you’ll find this fantastic combination in Pho & Japanese Sushi. Their Sashimi Salad, Thai Tea, and Samurai Rolls are bestsellers, but their Banh Mi takes center stage. They are served with carrots, jalapeno, and cucumber seasoned with special Vietnamese spices. You can find them at Harvard Avenue in Tulsa.

8. Pho Nhi Vietnamese Noodle House

pho nhi vietnamese noodle house

Serving a wide array of Vietnamese favorites, Pho Nhi Vietnamese Noodle House will make you feel like you’ve traveled to Vietnam. Their food is 100% authentic, and looking at the positive reviews this Banh Mi place received, you’ll instantly feel the urge to go there and try it. Crispy baguette, savory pork and ham fillings, and fresh vegetables seasoned to perfection. They are located at E 21st Street and offer dine-in services and curbside pickup.

9. Kai Vietnamese Cuisine

kai vietnamese cuisine

If you enjoy savoring your banh mi in an outdoor setting, Kai Vietnamese Cuisine is a must-visit in Tulsa. Served fresh always, their banh mi is a crowd favorite. Their mushroom banh mi is a standout, but so are their Egg Rolls, Bun Cha Gio, and Pho Sate, among many other awesome dishes. Located on W 5th Street, this can be your next go-to when craving authentic banh mi.

10. Pho 71

pho 71

Located in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Pho 71 is a BanhMi place you need to visit. Their Grilled Pork and Grilled Chicken Banh Mi should be on everyone’s must-try list. Also on their menu and not to be missed are Goi Cuon Thit Nuong Pork (spring rolls with grilled pork), Com Bo Luc Lac (stir-fried beef chunks with steamed rice), and Pho Tai Nam (beef noodle soup with eye-round steak and flank).

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Lifestyle

Eight Sleep POD Mattress 2024 Review

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eight sleep pod mattress

The Eight Sleep POD Mattress has plenty of unique features that would grab the attention of anyone looking for better sleep. And if you’re a tech enthusiast, you’d also want to explore its cutting-edge attributes. Promising to revolutionize rest and relaxation, let’s take an in-depth look at this marvel of a mattress.

Key Features

person using a smartphone

The Eight Sleep POD Mattress has the following features that would excite any tech enthusiast or someone simply looking to sleep better:

  • The Intelligent Sleep System: this technology aims to provide cooling and heating regulating features to give you optimal sleep.
  • Active Grid: this is Eight Sleep’s dynamic support and pressure relief feature for a more restful sleep.
  • Sleep Tracking: tracks your sleep, health, and environment.
  • Smart Home Integration: this feature lets you personalize your sleep experience through compatibility with other home devices.
  • Smart alarms: enables you to customize a chest-level vibration-based alarm on both sides of the bed without disturbing your partner.
  • Luxurious Build: aside from its incredible technology, the Eight Sleep POD Mattress has a multi-layer construction that provides support and pressure-relieving comfort. Plus, it looks classy, elegant, and sophisticated.

Support and Comfort

While the comfort and support of a mattress are subjective and will depend on personal preference, the Eight Sleep POD mattress is relatively supportive and promotes a healthy spinal alignment. It comes in two versions: the POD mattress and the POD Pro Mattress.

The POD mattress has five layers of memory foam designed for relief and support. It has a top layer that’s soft and conforming and lower layers that offer deeper support and stability. Generally speaking, this mattress is considered medium-firm.

On the other hand, the POD Pro mattress is a hybrid mattress with memory foam, latex, and coils. It gives more bounce and responsiveness than the POD mattress. It also provides good pressure relief and support and is considered a medium-plush type.

The POD cover is another layer of comfort and functionality. It is made with breathable materials with air cells that help reduce pressure points. These millions of air cells contribute to dissipating heat, which is ideal for those who sleep hot.

Temperature Regulation

two people on a bed

With unparalleled cooling and heating capabilities in the sleep industry, the Eight Sleep POD mattress is a blessing from mattress heaven. It automatically adjusts to your ideal temperature throughout your sleep. It is taking sleep optimization to a new level with its intelligent temperature control technology. 

Thanks to its POD cover, the zip-on mattress cover comes with an ingenious “Active Grid.” It is a network of water tubes connected to a central hub that serves as your thermal conductor. You can set your desired temperature for both sides of the bed to provide personalized comfort.

It has adaptive intelligence that tracks your sleep stages and body temperature in real time. It gathers data to adjust the mattress’ temperature throughout your sleep. It provides science-backed optimization to cool down during the onset of your sleep. It gradually warms up toward the morning to promote a deeper and more restful sleep.

The POD copies this natural thermal cycle to give you optimal sleep stages. The POD also considers your bedroom’s conditions and external factors such as temperature and local weather. This ensures that you sleep well despite fluctuations in room conditions.

Sleep Tracking and Insights

eight sleep mattress pod

Many bed brands offer sleep-tracking capabilities, but the Eight Sleep POD mattress goes beyond the basics. It comes with sensors that capture a variety of data, which includes the following:

  • Heart rate variability (HRV): to indicate your nervous system’s health and recovery.
  • Respiratory rate: gives you insights into the depth of your sleep and potential sleep apnea.
  • Skin temperature: can provide you insights into your body’s natural thermal regulation during sleep.
  • Body movement: it tracks restlessness and sleep inefficiency.

The Eight Sleep POD mattress also has an app that provides data on your sleep stages, sleep quality score, trends, and comparisons and will give you personalized recommendations based on these. All these can help you optimize your sleep routine, improve sleep hygiene, track progress, and set your goals.

With all these capabilities, you’ll get more than just statistics. This mattress helps you gain a deeper sense of self-awareness by letting you understand your sleep patterns and how they are connected to your overall health and well-being.

Pricing and Value

mattress and pillow

With all the Eight Sleep POD Mattress’s bells and whistles comes a premium price tag. The POD cover price starts at $2,245 for the Queen size, the POD mattress is around $3,245, and the POD Pro Mattress costs around $3,745. You can also purchase the optional 8+ Pro Membership for approximately $15 to $24 a month if you want to unlock advanced features and data insights.

Pros and Cons

Let’s take a look at the Eight Sleep POD Mattress pros and cons to help you make an informed decision at a glance:

Pros:

  • Advanced sleep tracking features and insights
  • Customized temperature control
  • high-quality mattress
  • Convenience and automation
  • Health benefits

Cons:

  • High price tag
  • additional costs for subscription fees
  • not suitable for all body types, sleep preferences, and budget

Is the Eight Sleep POD Mattress for You?

mattress

This would depend on various factors. Your needs, budget, and preferences come into play to see if this mattress is right for you. You may want to ask yourself the following questions to find out if the Eight Sleep POD Mattress is worth your while:

  • Are you struggling to regulate the temperature when you sleep?
  • Is deep sleep a priority for you? Do you want to optimize your sleep patterns?
  • Will you be comfortable with a high-tech sleep solution with future developments?
  • Have you looked at different alternatives with this type of mattress?

Final Thoughts

If you’re still in the dark about whether to get the Eight Sleep POD Mattress, you may want to take advantage of its 30-night trial period before you make your decision. It is an expensive investment, one that you might want to think about three times over. However, with its fantastic features, this might be the best sleep solution you can give yourself.

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Lifestyle

Top 10 Places to Experience Food and Culinary Adventures

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food bowls

Exploring food and culinary adventures around the world can be a delightful journey for any food enthusiast. Immersing yourself in the local culture and cuisine will make your trip more memorable. Here are ten places known for their exceptional culinary experiences:

1. Tokyo, Japan

Renowned for its sushi, ramen, and kaiseki cuisine, Tokyo offers a diverse range of flavors. Visit Tsukiji Fish Market for fresh seafood and experience traditional tea ceremonies. Experience fresh and high-quality sushi at sushi bars and traditional sushi restaurants. Try nigiri (hand-pressed sushi) and sashimi (sliced raw fish). When I went to Japan, I didn’t buy a souvenir, but I spent all my money on food!

2. Paris, France

croissant on a plate

A mecca for food lovers, Paris is celebrated for its pastries, cheeses, and exquisite French cuisine. Enjoy classic croissants, indulge in escargot, and savor world-class wines. Indulge in Paris’s iconic Croissant. It’s crispy on the outside, buttery and flaky within, and an exquisite pastry is a symbol of French culinary excellence. Whether enjoyed plain or filled with chocolate, almonds, or ham and cheese, savoring a croissant in Paris is an essential and delightful gastronomic experience.

3. Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand’s capital is a street food paradise with vibrant markets. Don’t miss trying Pad Thai, the iconic street food dish in Bangkok, Thailand. This flavorful stir-fried noodle dish combines rice noodles, shrimp, tofu or chicken, bean sprouts, and peanuts, all seasoned with a perfect blend of tamarind, fish sauce, and chili—a delicious taste of Bangkok’s vibrant culinary scene in every bite.

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona’s food scene blends traditional Catalan dishes with avant-garde culinary creations. Visit La Boqueria market and try tapas, paella, and churros. In Barcelona, indulge in the iconic dish, paella. Bursting with saffron-infused rice, seafood, and meats, this Spanish culinary masterpiece captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Savor the rich and aromatic combination of ingredients, reflecting Barcelona’s vibrant culture and warmth in every delicious bite.

5. Marrakech, Morocco

tagine

Immerse yourself in the spices and flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Explore the souks for tagines and couscous, and indulge in mint tea and pastries. Don’t miss trying the iconic tagine—a slow-cooked stew traditionally prepared with succulent meats, aromatic spices, and a blend of fruits or vegetables. Served in a distinctive cone-shaped earthenware pot, tagine embodies Moroccan cuisine’s rich flavors and culinary artistry, providing a truly authentic dining experience.

6. Oaxaca, Mexico

Known as Mexico’s culinary heart, Oaxaca offers various authentic dishes, including mole, tlayudas, and chapulines (grasshoppers). The must-try dish is Mole Oaxaqueño, a rich and complex sauce made from chili peppers, chocolate, and various spices that coats tender meat (often chicken or turkey). The result is a symphony of flavors, showcasing the region’s culinary artistry and vibrant cultural heritage.

7. New York City, USA

NYC is a melting pot of diverse culinary influences. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, explore various cuisines, including bagels, pizza, and food truck delights. Enjoy a New York slice, a classic pizza featuring a thin, foldable crust topped with tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella. Whether enjoyed from a corner pizzeria or a renowned establishment, the New York slice reflects the city’s rich culinary heritage and diverse flavors.

8. Hanoi, Vietnam

pho

Hanoi is celebrated for its street food culture. Try pho, banh mi, and egg coffee while exploring the bustling markets and local eateries. Don’t miss trying pho, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup. Savor the rich, aromatic broth infused with herbs and spices with flat rice noodles and tender slices of beef or chicken. Pho is a flavorful culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine in a single bowl.

9. Bologna, Italy

As the birthplace of Bolognese sauce, Bologna is a haven for pasta lovers. Enjoy authentic Italian dishes, including tortellini, ragu, and regional cheeses. Try the iconic Bolognese sauce, locally known as Ragù alla Bolognese. Savor the rich, slow-cooked meat sauce traditionally paired with tagliatelle pasta. This hearty and flavorful dish is a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the region’s dedication to authentic and soul-satisfying Italian cuisine.

10. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul’s culinary scene reflects its rich history. Savor kebabs, mezes, and Turkish delights while exploring the city’s vibrant street food culture. Istanbul’s must-try culinary delight is the “Iskender Kebab.” This iconic dish features thinly sliced döner kebab meat, lavash bread, yogurt, and a smoky tomato sauce. The combination of flavors and textures creates a mouthwatering experience, making Iskender Kebab a must-try for anyone exploring the vibrant food scene in Istanbul, Turkey.

Final Words

These destinations offer delicious local cuisines, unique culinary traditions, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a fan of street food or haute cuisine, these places provide a gastronomic adventure that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave lasting memories.

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