World Fitness Blog : Leading Global Bloggers

August 27, 2021

GMC Teases Overlanders With Burly New Concept for Canyon AT4 Pickup

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: , , , , , , — admin @ 7:12 pm

There’s no doubt the overlanding scene has exploded in the last few years, with major auto manufacturers finally getting on the hype with special bespoke vehicles targeted squarely at off-road enthusiasts. And GMC is the latest to offer an overlanding special of a current model with the Canyon AT4 Ovrlandx concept truck, which was unveiled today at Overland Expo Mountain West 2021 in Loveland, Colorado.

The Canyon AT4 already had impressive 4×4 stats. The off-road-ready mid-size pickup boasted a 1” lift, skid plates, better break-over angles, an auto-locking rear diff, and hill-descent control. GMC just bumped them up with a bevy of upgrades and essential overlanding accessories. Off-road performance enhancements include sliders, cast-iron control arms, a heavy-duty front bumper with winch, integrated recovery points, front and rear auto-locking diffs, mud flares with an integrated light, a rear-mounted spare tire swivel on an AEV off-road bumper, and Multimatic dampers on the shocks for better on- and off-road control.

GMC's new overlanding concept is a burlier, more versatile version of the GMC Canyon pickup truck.
Courtesy Image

Other off-road cred enhancements include a 27.7-degree approach angle and a ground clearance of 10 inches, which is gained by the addition of 33-inch BFGoodrich KM3 Mud-Terrain tires on 17-inch AEV Crestone wheels. A custom snorkel gives it better breathing by bringing cool, filtered air into the engine, while also allowing for the truck to challenge water crossings up to 32.1 inches deep.

“We wanted to showcase GMC Canyon with this concept and punctuate GMC’s commitment to premium, off-road capable vehicles. Consumer reaction to this concept’s design will help us further serve the growing market of buyers leading authentic outdoor lifestyles,” said Buick & GMC global vice president Duncan Aldred.

GMC's new overlanding concept is a burlier, more versatile version of the GMC Canyon pickup truck.
Courtesy Image

It seems GMC is just getting started with this gamut of goodies by tapping some of the best overlanding gear brands to fully trick out the truck. A stainless steel truck bed cap opens up on each side to allow access to gear and a trick RSI SmartCap kitchen—not to mention the ability to mount a roof-top tent; solar panel; and a massive, 270-degree awning for wide-ranging protection from the elements.

GMC's new overlanding concept is a burlier, more versatile version of the GMC Canyon pickup truck.
Courtesy Image

Inside the back of the truck GMC added a neat Decked drawer system to keep tools sorted, a Dometic electric cooler, and other overlanding essentials like jerry cans, traction boards, and a jack.

“The Canyon AT4 Ovrlandx concept truck was designed to balance functionality with aesthetics,” said John Owens, lead creative designer for the concept truck. “When you’re overlanding, capability is an important factor, but doing it with premium style and comfort elevates the experience even further for customers who truly want zero compromises.”

GMC's new overlanding concept is a burlier, more versatile version of the GMC Canyon pickup truck.
Courtesy Image

We think GMC created an amazing, capable overlanding rig—based off of an already proven and popular base vehicle—the only pain point is this won’t be slated for production any time soon.

Though just a concept, it does give overlanders in the market for a new truck lots of ideas on how to make their own Canyon AT4 just that much more badass on the trail.

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Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Manchester United Bye, Juventus. Picture: Marco Bertorello/AFP

Filed under: Outdoors — Tags: — admin @ 5:53 pm

Cristiano Ronaldo has agreed to make a sensational return to the Premier League, his move unfolding in a matter of hours.

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has completed a sensational return to the English Premier League, signing with his former club Manchester United.

Ronaldo, 36, represented United from 2003-2009 before moving to Real Madrid. He has spent the last three years in Italy with Juventus.

The Portuguese star’s transfer unfolded in rapid fashion today after Juventus confirmed his desire to leave. Then Manchester City, which had been considered the favourite to sign him, pulled out of the running.

United saw its chance and pounced.

“I didn’t think Cristiano was going to leave Juventus. But if ever he is going to move away from Juventus, he knows we are here,” United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told reporters hours before the deal was announced.

“He knows how we feel about him. He is a legend of this club, one of the greatest players of all time if you ask me. So let’s see what happens with him.”

Within hours Ronaldo had flown into the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, where United had quickly planned a medical examination.

The club announced it had reached an agreement with Ronaldo shortly afterwards.

“Manchester United is delighted to confirm that the club has reached agreement with Juventus for the transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo, subject to the agreement of personal terms, visa and a medical,” it said.

“Cristiano, a five time Ballon d’Or winner, has so far won over 30 major trophies during his career, including five UEFA Champions League titles, four FIFA Club World Cups, seven league titles in England, Spain and Italy, and the European Championship.

“In his first spell for Manchester United, he scored 118 goals in 292 games.

“Everyone at the club looks forward to welcoming Cristiano back to Manchester.”

It seems Ronaldo’s former manager at United, Sir Alex Ferguson, played a role in convincing him to return. According to The Manchester Evening News, Ferguson reached out to the man he first coached as a teenager on Friday.

Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri only confirmed that Ronaldo was leaving his club on Friday morning.

“Yesterday Cristiano told me that he has no intention of continuing at Juventus,” Allegri said, insisting that he was “absolutely not disappointed”.

“These things pass. Sivori, Platini, Del Piero, Zidane, Buffon have all passed through Juve. Great champions. It is a law of life.

“Juventus remains the most important thing. It has been three years, he has given his contribution, now he leaves and life goes on, as is normal.”

Allegri said Ronaldo had indicated he would stay at Juventus just days earlier.

“The situation has changed, and it must be accepted,” he said.

“He told his teammates this morning. I am not surprised at anything. In football there is the market, and there are the needs of individuals.”

Like many other large clubs, Juventus has endured significant financial difficulties during the coronavirus pandemic, and has been looking to lower its wage bill. Offloading Ronaldo’s $1.7 million salary will certainly help.

It’s a similar situation to the one at Barcelona, where financial problems forced Ronaldo’s rival Lionel Messi to move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Messi made no secret of his sadness at leaving Barcelona, the only club he had ever represented at senior level in his 17-year career.

His contract expired at the end of June, making him a free agent. He was expected to re-sign with Barcelona, but the club eventually concluded it could not afford the contract due to “economic and structural issues”.

“As a result of this situation, Messi shall not be staying on at FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and club will not be fulfilled.”

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6 Benefits of Boxing for Fitness – Healthline

Filed under: Fitness — admin @ 1:19 pm

Boxing is a combat sport that has been practiced since before the time of ancient Greece and the original Olympics. It has been used to train people for performance in the art of striking, as well as general physical conditioning.

Recently, it has become more popular as a form of exercise. When people box for fitness, they often use a punching bag, avoiding the physical contact that can lead to concussions and other injuries. However, boxing for fitness still provides boxing’s inherent benefits.

Typical boxing exercise includes movement and footwork drills to evade punches, as well as punching drills on equipment like heavy bags, speed bags, and focus mitts. Boxing can also be performed virtually via gaming systems that have movement sensors.

In addition, many boxing exercise programs involve other conditioning exercises, such as jumping rope, calisthenics, and running.

Practicing the sport is not only a great way to improve your physical fitness but also a fun way to challenge your mind and body.

This article lists 6 benefits of boxing, all back by science.

Boxers must have the ability to perform frequent bouts of high intensity activity during a training session or boxing match. The sport is a form of high intensity interval training (HIIT) and can push your body to repeatedly sustain intense bouts of activity (1).

High intensity interval training has been associated with a decreased risk of heart disease (2).

Plus, boxing can improve your aerobic fitness. In fact, one study found that boxer rankings were directly correlated with markers of heart health (3).

High intensity boxing training has been shown to decrease body fat and improve overall body composition more than other activities like brisk walking (4).

For example, a 150-pound (68-kg) person can burn 390–558 calories, or more if conditioning exercises are included, in a 60-minute session. The number of calories burned will vary by the intensity level, as well as factors like whether you’re hitting a bag or sparring (5).

Even exergaming, which involves simulated boxing performed using a gaming system, effectively burns calories (6).

This may help increase activity levels among people who may be less inclined to participate in a live training or exercise program. In addition, many people may be more comfortable with a gaming system in their hands, compared with a pair of boxing gloves.

While most people may think punching power only comes from the shoulder, the act of throwing a punch involves the entire body.

A good punch involves the lower limbs pushing against the ground and the coordination of the rest of the body to deliver power through the strike. Therefore, the lower limbs, as well as the core muscles, are a significant part of the punching movement (7).

Boxing is a movement-intensive activity. It involves coordinated footwork, developing reactive movement strategies to changing conditions, and the muscular strength mentioned above.

These all help improve attributes of balance. In fact, one study found that a boxing program improved balance among people recovering from a stroke (8).

What’s more, boxing has been used as a method to treat Parkinson’s disease — a debilitating neurological disease that affects the body’s ability to perform complex movements. As the disease progresses, it increases a person’s risk of falling.

In a recent study on decreasing fall risk and improving balance scores among people affected by Parkinson’s disease, boxing training improved these issues (9).

There’s a truly cathartic effect that comes from letting out your stress in a healthy way, such as by punching a bag or focus mitt.

Boxing training can vary in intensity throughout a workout, although most boxing training and conditioning programs tend to follow a HIIT protocol, which can help relieve stress.

Research has observed mood improvements among those who practice this type of training (10, 11).

Boxing and HIIT training, in general, have been shown to lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, helping decrease stress on the blood vessels.

Elevated blood pressure is a precursor to experiencing more serious events like heart attacks and strokes (12, 13).

One study found a significant reduction in blood pressure when comparing a HIIT boxing program to a moderate intensity cardiovascular training program (3).

Boxing training is a form of exercise that involves footwork, punching, and evasion movements to simulate the activities involved in the sport of boxing.

It’s often combined with other conditioning activities, such as jumping rope and calisthenics, which increases the intensity of each training session.

Boxing can help improve your heart health, body composition, and strength, as well as lower your blood pressure and aid weight loss.

Most of all, boxing is a fun way to get some exercise and release stress in a safe and healthy way.

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The fitness fashion trend replacing the puffer jacket – Sydney Morning Herald

Filed under: Fitness — admin @ 5:51 am

Preparing for the arrival of spring, the flamboyant fitness fashion species has shed its winter puffer jacket, abandoned cropped hoodies and let toned limbs emerge from hibernation adorned with colourful weighted bracelets.

With lockdowns making timed power walks a rare opportunity to demonstrate style credentials and post social media selfies, wearable weights are emerging as influencer-endorsed status symbols.

Austyn Campbell and Bernadette Fahey with the latest fitness accessory, wearable weights.

Austyn Campbell and Bernadette Fahey with the latest fitness accessory, wearable weights. Credit:Janie Barrett

The weights by US company Bala, in pastel-shades familiar to anyone who endured an aerobics class in the ’80s, are gaining in popularity and visibility in Australia since launching here in November. Steady growth accelerated when Sydney entered lockdown in the third week of June, with sales tripling.

The accessories are part of a national trend, with the bangles infiltrating traditionally basic black wardrobes in Melbourne, which accounts for 30 per cent of sales, while Sydney shuffles ahead with 31 per cent. Blush and lavender are currently the top-selling colours.

“It’s a fusion between fashion and fitness,” said entrepreneur Austyn Campbell, who is heading Bala’s push into the Asia-Pacific region.

“People like the design and the fact that they are aesthetically pleasing and easy to use. The product also lends itself to Instagram with a wide range of colours,” Ms Campbell said.

Natalie Holloway and Max Kislevitz, the married couple responsible for transforming the #fitspo crowd into Jazzercise super heroes, created the retro weights in 2017, targeting a fashion audience, using $US40,000 ($55,066) from crowd-funding site Kickstarter and $US10,000 ($13,764) of their savings.

In 2018, they appeared on the American version of the television series, Shark Tank, attracting an $US800,000 ($1,101,323) investment from panellists tennis star Maria Sharapova and billionaire Mark Cuban.

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The Best Apple Watch Bands for Every Style and Budget

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: , , — admin @ 12:35 am

Apple Watch bands might be the most important accessory for those of us who have decided to strap a small computer to our wrists every day. While the watch itself gets most of the attention (and rightly so, it’s an incredible piece of technology), finding the right band will make the watch more comfortable, functional, and stylish, too. In other words, a good band is essential.

Fortunately, there are a wide variety of options to suit every taste and budget. Here, we rounded up our favorite Apple Watch bands on the market right now.

The Best Apple Watch Bands

Apple Solo Loop apple watch bands
Apple Solo Loop Courtesy Image

1. Apple Solo Loop

The old classic from the watchmaker itself is still a solid bet if you’re looking for a simple Apple Watch band. The silicone rubber is easy to clean, it comes in just about the entire rainbow of colors, and it isn’t too busy. One caveat: It isn’t adjustable, so make sure to consult Apple’s size guide to get the band that fits your wrist.

[$49; apple.com]

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CasterTroy Soft Silicone Narrow Sports Band
CasterTroy Soft Silicone Narrow Sports Band Courtesy Image

2. CasterTroy Soft Silicone Narrow Sports Band

If Apple’s silicone band is too wide for you, this band makes an ideal alternative. The silicone material won’t get soggy during a sweaty workout or run, and it’s adjustable for a fine-tuned fit.

[$8; etsy.com]

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Nike Sport Band for Apple Watch bands
Nike Sport Band for Apple Watch Courtesy Image

3. Nike Sport Band for Apple Watch

As you’d expect from a Nike/Apple collaboration, this band is durable and built to withstand lots of heat, sweat, and movement. The cutouts keep the band light and breathable and also give it a sleek, high-tech look.

[$49; bestbuy.com]

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Nomad Titanium Band
Nomad Titanium Band Courtesy Image

4. Nomad Titanium Band

This bracelet is a cut above your typical stainless steel band. It’s made from titanium, so it’s ultralight and extremely durable, and to make it even tougher, it’s DLC coated to resist scratching. It also comes with a clever magnetic closure—a neat upgrade over the typical folding clasp you see on most metal watch bracelets. Don’t need titanium? There’s a stainless steel version, too.

[$250; nomadgoods.com]

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Speidel Twist-O-Flex Band
Speidel Twist-O-Flex Band Courtesy Image

5. Speidel Twist-O-Flex Band

Speidel’s original Twist-O-Flex was released back in the late ’50s, but it looks right at home when paired with an Apple Watch. This stainless steel bracelet stretches and flexes almost like an elastic strap, but it offers the durability and sleek aesthetics of a metal band. The Twist-O-Flex was a midcentury hit, and it’s still a functional and stylish pick today.

[$50; speidel.com]

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INI Enhanced Adjustable Leather Strap
INI Enhanced Adjustable Leather Strap Courtesy Image

6. INI Enhanced Adjustable Leather Strap

This Apple Watch band uses magnets to stay clasped tightly, and its dozens of locking grooves provide a range of sizes to fit any wrist. It’s easy to put on and wear, and the functional design gives it a unique look, too.

[$22; amazon.com]

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Bellroy Watch Strap apple watch bands
Bellroy Watch Strap Courtesy Image

7. Bellroy Watch Strap

With its streamlined shape, this strap from Bellroy combines a futuristic look with the classic style (and comfortable feel) of leather, and the standard clasp makes it easy to adjust. It’s also available in several colors to match any outfit.

[$69; bellroy.com]

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BandWerk Zurich apple watch bands
BandWerk Zurich Courtesy Image

8. BandWerk Zurich

German designer BandWerk is a leader in upscale Apple Watch bands that elevate your watch from a tech gadget to a stylish accessory. The Zurich strap features stitched, subtly textured ostrich leather for a premium feel, and it even comes with a free Milanese sports strap—perfect for workouts and pool sessions.

[$146; bandwerk.com]

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SDVL Elastic Braided Apple Watch Band
SDVL Elastic Braided Apple Watch Band Courtesy Image

9. SDVL Elastic Braided Apple Watch Band

Everything about this band is easy. It’s easy to slide on, easy to look good in, and easy to wear thanks to its lightweight breathability and stretchy elastic-nylon fabric. Plus, it’s available in all kinds of colors and patterns.

[$33; etsy.com]

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SIRUIBO Stretchy Nylon Solo Loop Band
SIRUIBO Stretchy Nylon Solo Loop Band Courtesy Image

10. SIRUIBO Stretchy Nylon Solo Loop Band

If you’re looking for an Apple Watch band that offers a happy medium between elasticity and adjustability, this band from SIRUIBO is an excellent option. The elasticized nylon fabric has plenty of flexibility, so it won’t constrict your wrist, and the fully adjustable strap ensures a snug fit.

[$10; amazon.com]

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Apple International Collection Sport Loop
Apple International Collection Sport Loop Courtesy Image

11. Apple International Collection Sport Loop

This Apple Watch band is a mix of function and flair—it comes in color schemes that represent 22 international sporting federations (including the United States). In addition to the patriotic colorways, the woven nylon band is lightweight and lets moisture out more easily than most straps of its type.

[$49; apple.com]

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August 26, 2021

From the Kitchen to the Campsite, Cook Like a Pro With These Cast Iron Skillets

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: , , , — admin @ 10:04 pm

A chef’s kitchen isn’t complete without a cast iron skillet. Made from an iron-carbon alloy, these heavy duty pans are an essential and versatile tool for use on the grill, on a stovetop, or even over a campfire. Chefs love cast iron because the durable material retains heat better than stainless steel, and the cooking surface improves over time as it’s used and re-seasoned. As it cooks, food leaves behind a natural coating on the pan that provides flavor as well as a reliable non-stick surface for simmering, searing, braising, baking, and sautéing pretty much anything.

Cleaning Your Skillet

Cast iron skillets are tough, but you still need to take care of them. The cleaning ritual can seem intimidating to newbies, but really, maintenance is quite simple. Since water causes rust on cast iron, the first rule to remember is to never soak a skillet. You can, however, wash it by hand with a small amount of soap and use a scrubber to pry off stuck bits of food, according to skillet manufacturer Lodge. Once you’re done scrubbing, immediately dry your skillet thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.

Seasoning Your Skillet

To keep that non-stick coating in shape, you’ll need to season your skillet. Add a thin, even layer of cooking oil to its surface, and then place it upside down in a 500-degree oven for an hour. Take it out, let it cool, and your skillet will be ready for its next use.

Cast iron skillets come in many different varieties. Below, we’ve rounded up the best types for different uses, from cooking for a crowd to whipping up a meal in the backcountry.

The Best Cast Iron Skillets

Victoria 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet
Victoria 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet Courtesy Image

1. Best Overall: Victoria 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet

It’s not often that the best all-around choice is the same as the best wallet-friendly pick, but that’s certainly the case with this sturdy sub-$30 skillet. Although it’s available in several sizes, 12 inches is the standard—in that size, it’ll fit on pretty much every burner. This one is pre-seasoned with a 100 percent non-GMO flaxseed oil coating, so it’s ready for cooking up bacon, frittatas, or cobbler right out of the box. The long handle makes it effortless to wield and two drip spouts on either side make draining liquids a cinch.

[$25; amazon.com]

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Le Creuset Signature Skillet
Le Creuset Signature Skillet Courtesy Image

2. Best Splurge: Le Creuset Signature Skillet

Cookware can be functional and handsome, and Le Creuset skillets win high marks for aesthetics. Made in France, these fancy pans feature a non-stick, chip resistant finish on the cooking side so you don’t have to season it for its first use (though it never hurts to add a little oil before the first fry). The enamel side comes in multiple colors to match any kitchen, and the pans range in size from six to 12 inches. They’re also safe for the dishwasher and for use with metal utensils.

[$120–220; lecreuset.com]

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Best for Big Meals: Bayou Classic 20-inch Cast Iron Skillet
Bayou Classic 20-inch Cast Iron Skillet Courtesy Image

3. Best for Big Meals: Bayou Classic 20-inch Cast Iron Skillet

When you’re cooking for a full house, grab this whopper of a skillet. Because of its generous size, it’s ideal for making jumbo portions, and you can also use it on a fire or outdoor propane burner. At 23 pounds empty, it’s definitely bulky, but two handles on either side help you maneuver it (though you might need to recruit some help to move it when it’s full of food). It comes pre-seasoned, although the manufacturer recommends seasoning it yourself for best results.

[$110; bayouclassicdepot.com]

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Camp Chef 7-inch Mini Skillets
Camp Chef 7-inch Mini Skillets Courtesy Image

4. Best for Camping: Camp Chef 7-inch Mini Skillets

Just because you’re sleeping in a tent, doesn’t mean your meals can’t be delicious. These seven-inch skillets (they’re sold in pairs) are smaller than average, which makes them easier to handle and clean when you’re away from a kitchen. Each one has just enough room for sautéing veggies for fireside tacos or cooking a full personal pizza. Plus, they’re lighter than other skillets, so you can slip one into your pack for a short trek into the backcountry.

[$10; campchef.com]

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Best Deep Dish: Lodge Blacklock Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Deep Saute Pan
Lodge Blacklock Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Deep Saute Pan Courtesy Image

5. Best Deep Dish: Lodge Blacklock Triple Seasoned Cast Iron Deep Saute Pan

For soups and slow roasts, you’ll want a skillet with higher sides and a lid. Some might call it a pot, but the Lodge deep saute pan is 4.5 inches deep and holds up to 4 quarts of tasty goodness. The lid features an aluminum knob that’s easy to grip, and the pan has a long and short handle on either side for maximum carrying stability. This one has been triple-seasoned, though Lodge recommends applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface before each use.

[$150; williams-sonoma.com]

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Stargazer 10.5-inch Cast Iron Skillet
Stargazer 10.5-inch Cast Iron Skillet Courtesy Image

6. Best Size-to-Weight Ratio: Stargazer 10.5-inch Cast Iron Skillet

The creator of the Stargazer skillet worked through 21 prototypes before he finalized his design. Each of these skillets is cast, machined, smoothed, and seasoned in the U.S., and the trademark bronze color comes from the seasoning, not the metal: Stargazer uses a blend of non-GMO canola, grapeseed, and sunflower oils (you can also order an unseasoned pan). The flared rim allows for drip-free pouring, the smooth surface makes it easy to clean, and at 5.2 pounds for a 10.5-inch skillet, it’s the lightest high-quality pan out there.

[$115; stargazercastiron.com]

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Buddy’s historic moment ruined Almost a quarter of the 2021 All-Australian team play for the Demons. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Filed under: Outdoors — Tags: — admin @ 5:53 pm

On the eve of the finals, the AFL announced the twenty-two members of its 2021 All-Australian Team at the AFL Awards.

The AFL announced its 2021 All-Australian Team at Thursday night’s AFL Awards.

The 40-man squad unveiled on Monday was cut back to 22, with five of those players coming from the Melbourne Demons.

All five were picked in the starting squad — the most from any individual club since Collingwood in 2011.

In recognition of his stellar season, Demons star Max Gawn was named All-Australian captain, with Bulldogs skipper Marcus Bontempelli his vice-captain.

Gawn became the first Demon to captain the All-Australian side since Ron Barassi was named captain at the 1961 Carnival.

Eleven players — Aliir Aliir, Jake Lever, Steven May, Daniel Rich, Bailey Dale, Sam Walsh, Ollie Wines, Harry McKay, Tom Papley, Touk Miller and Darcy Parish — were named All-Australian players for the first time in their careers.

Christian Petracca, Tom Hawkins, Jack Macrae, Max Gawn, Marcus Bontempelli, Jack Steele and Nic Naitanui all retained their spots from last year.

Touk Miller became just the third Gold Coast Suns player in the club’s short history to make the All-Australian team and the first since Tom Lynch in 2016.

After no Tigers were picked in the 40-man squad, 2021’s team officially became the first since 2013 not to feature any Richmond players.

Twelve of the eighteen clubs were represented in the side, with Adelaide, Fremantle, North Melbourne, Hawthorn and Collingwood all also absent.

Lance Franklin will have to wait another year if he wants to break the record for the most All-Australian appearances in the post-carnival era.

Franklin had the chance to make it nine career appearances in the team, but was overlooked for selection in favour of Geelong forward Tom Hawkins and Carlton’s Harry McKay.

Elsewhere, Melbourne Demons star Luke Jackson was named the 2021 NAB AFL Rising Star. Mitch Georgiades of Port Adelaide and Tom Green of the Greater Western Sydney Giants came in second and third, respectively.

“It’s a massive honour and I am very humbled to win the NAB Rising Star award. I am really excited about what the team can achieve in the Finals series and can’t wait to get out on the field and make our supporters proud,” Jackson said.

“I couldn’t have had the season I have without the support of Simon Goodwin, the entire coaching group and all my teammates who have helped to not only develop me as a person but also as a player.

“My family have also played a massive role throughout the and I would like to thank them for all their support and guidance they have given me.”

Carlton key forward Harry McKay was confirmed as the Coleman Medallist for 2021, having kicked a league-high 58 goals this season.

Fremantle’s Caleb Serong and Noah Anderson of the Gold Coast Suns were joint winners of the AFL Coaches Association’s Best Young Player award.

Melbourne Demons star Clayton Oliver was named the AFL Coaches Association Champion Player of the Year.

The 2021 All-Australian team is:

B: Jake Lever (MEL), Steven May (MEL), Tom Stewart (GEE)

HB: Daniel Rich (BL), Aliir Aliir (PA), Bailey Dale (WB)

C: Zach Merrett (ESS), Ollie Wines (PA), Sam Walsh (CAR)

HF: Christian Petracca (MEL), Tom Hawkins (GEE), Marcus Bontempelli (WB)

FF: Tom Papley (SYD), Harry McKay (CAR), Toby Greene (GWS)

FOLL: Max Gawn (MEL), Jack Macrae (WB), Clayton Oliver (MEL)

IC: Jack Steele (STK), Nic Naitanui (WCE), Touk Miller (GCS) Darcy Parish (ESS)

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Formula DRIFT PRO and PROSPEC Head to St. Louis

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: , , , — admin @ 12:00 pm

With only three rounds remaining in the 2021 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship, the title chase is heating up as we head toward the Final round in Irwindale, CA, at the end of October.

Round 6: Crossroads brings the teams to familiar territory at the World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, IL—a mere six miles from the famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

With 100 points available for the winner of each round, 32 of the 33 FD PRO drivers have a mathematical chance of winning. But in reality, the 2021 FD PRO Champion will almost certainly emerge from the top six drivers, who are all within 105 points of current leader Chelsea DeNofa (USA) in the BC Racing / Nitto Tire Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5-D.

Despite three wins from five rounds, DeNofa is only one point clear of second place Matt Field (USA) in the Falken Tire / Drift Cave Chevrolet Corvette. Both drivers have been incredibly consistent this season, managing to deliver blistering acceleration from their circa 1000hp missiles, while drifting with controlled aggression between unforgiving walls.

Four of the top six drivers have yet to claim an FD PRO Championship title, making them especially hungry, willing to put everything on the line. But let’s not discount the experience of 2015 FD Champion Fredric Aasbo (Norway) and his potent Rockstar Energy Drink Toyota GR Supra. The Norwegian is currently third, always a threat, and has to be respected.

The same applies to sixth place Vaughn Gittin Jr (USA). As the team leader to DeNofa, Gittin’s Monster Energy Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5-D is more powerful than the majority of his competitors, and with two titles under his belt from 2010 and 2020, the reigning champ loves to ruin the day for his rivals.

For all the top drivers, success and failure are a whisker away as they attempt to run fast, hard, and uncomfortably close to each other, risking everything for the win. And as the pressure mounts, small mistakes can be brutally punished by the walls expectantly waiting to wreck aspirations in a fraction of a second.

PROSPEC

For the 2021 Formula DRIFT PROSPEC Championship, Round 3 in St. Louis represents the start of the second half of the four-round season. The teams had a six-week summer break to fix, fettle, and fine-tune their vehicles. As the feeder series for the PRO Championship, PROSPEC cars tend to be less powerful, averaging around 600hp. The drivers tend to be less experienced, cutting their teeth on concrete walls before moving up to FD PRO. However, less horsepower and experience doesn’t mean a lack of excitement or commitment. If anything, the PROSPEC drivers have more to prove and will do what it takes to catch the eye of the bigger teams and sponsors.

The Championship currently has two drivers on the same 180 points, led by reigning Champion, Dmitriy Brutskiy (Belarus) who drives the Essa Autosport / ISC Suspension BMW E46. As the 2020 title winner, Brutskiy had the opportunity to join the PRO Championship but decided to remain in PROSPEC and develop his skills. That decision has paid off but he needs to remain consistent to rise above joint leader, Nick Noback (USA) in the KoruWorks BMW E46. However, Noback fully intends to win the title himself, meaning both men need to score points this weekend to take the fight to the Final round in Irwindale.

With two Championship rounds taking place this weekend, fans can satisfy their drift craving as the competition runs late into the night. Visit formulad.com for ticket sales to join what will be a capacity crowd, if the previous 2021 rounds are any indicator of the popularity of the series.

Fans unable to attend can log onto the free-to-view Formula DRIFT livestream. Broadcasts are available for both qualifying and competition heats at every round, and are available via the Formula DRIFT website, the FD YouTube page, or FD Facebook page. Visit the website for the event schedule.

Formula DRIFT is an all-weather, high-horsepower, high-speed sport. Drivers qualify in cars that typically have more than 1000hp, for a position in the Top 32 elimination heats. Drivers drift the course in pairs during competition, with points awarded for angle, line, and style, where proximity and speed are the key ingredients. Teams from around the globe compete in Formula DRIFT, which is the premier drift series in the world.

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Girls ‘least likely’ to enjoy fitness tests, reveals study – Mirage News

Filed under: Fitness — admin @ 4:04 am
Taylor & Francis Group

Girls in secondary school are less likely than boys to enjoy or engage with tests designed to curb obesity and inactivity, according to new research published in the peer-reviewed journal Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy.

Running middle-distances such as a mile (1.8km) was rated by female pupils as their most unpopular fitness activity according to the findings based on a survey of more than 500 primary to pre-university students in Singapore.

The authors say teachers need new strategies to help young women engage with exercises used by schools to assess stamina and teach healthy lifestyles. With the Tokyo Olympics just finished, the findings are likely to fuel the debate around girls’ participation in exercise.

The researchers found that pupils aged 11 to 19 had a positive view overall of fitness testing. But they were more likely to see the value if they took pleasure in the challenges and teachers made them fun.

Music, video, working in pairs, self-assessment and all-female classes are among the researchers’ recommendations for making running more pleasurable, and fitness testing in general.

“Students’ experience of enjoyment in fitness testing was a key factor for their positive perceptions of fitness testing,” says Dr Masato Kawabata, of the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, from the team of authors.

“Therefore, it’s paramount that PE teachers use suitable teaching strategies to provide enjoyment in fitness testing especially for the secondary females who were least motivated.

“Future studies to explore the adoption of a healthy, active lifestyle into adulthood due to fitness testing participation in school PE are warranted.”

Fitness tests usually take place in physical education (PE) lessons, measure heart and lung performance, and are aimed at curbing obesity and sedentary behaviour which are global health issues. The aim is to promote learning and positive perceptions about activity, and maintain/improve fitness levels.

However, few studies exist into what motivates students in relation to these physical health measures, and some question their value altogether. Other evidence suggests testing pupils in front of their peers causes them embarrassment, and the assessments can be meaningless if they find the activities boring.

This study surveyed 221 male and 328 female students who attend state-run schools and participated in Singapore’s national mandatory fitness test (National Physical Fitness Award or NAPFA) which includes sit-ups, push-ups and running.

The survey analysed students’ views of fitness testing in relation to motivation, enjoyment, feelings, understanding and their teacher’s role. They were asked to rate statements such as ‘I feel guilty when I don’t participate in NAPFA’ and ‘I liked sit-ups’ on a scale from ‘strongly disagree’ to ‘strongly agree’.

Results showed primary school children had more positive perceptions than secondary and pre-university pupils. Middle distance running (2.4km and 1.6km) was the least popular test item, especially with female secondary school students.

Compared with secondary pupils, pre-university female students gave higher scores for their teacher being a positive role model. The authors say this suggests PE teachers had a positive influence on their perceptions of fitness testing.

Running has important health benefits and is convenient so the authors say new approaches are needed to motivate pupils who are least interested.

In separate findings published in the same journal, researchers from the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Birmingham have found that physical activity can be improved by online interventions, such as ‘exergames’ on mobile phone apps, on consoles such as PlayStation and Nintendo Wii.

Their review study is one of the first to examine not only the impact of online interventions on physical behaviours in non-clinical groups of young people but the effects of digital mediums on physical activity knowledge, social development and improving mental health.

The team led by Dr Victoria Goodyear analysed 26 studies and found the majority (70%) reported an increase and/or improvement in outcomes related to physical activity for children and young people who participated in online interventions. Primary school age pupils in particular who participated during PE lessons benefited.

Overall, the studies in this review provide convincing rationale for the use of online interventions – like exergames – to support children and young people’s engagement with physical activity, due to positive effects on physical activity levels, and emotions, attitudes, and motivations toward physical activity.

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August 25, 2021

25 Best Motorcycle Trips to Tour America’s Wide-Open Spaces

Filed under: Fitness — Tags: , , , — admin @ 6:11 pm

All the most rewarding, impactful, and life-changing road trips I’ve taken have been on a motorcycle. Don’t get me wrong, I love hitting the highway in a car full of friends as much as the next person, but traveling on two wheels is a completely different animal.

My first big trip was a ride up the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles to San Francisco on a big dual sport. After that I was hooked. Things took off from there as I explored the deserts of the West, toured juke joints outside of Austin, TX, got lost in the Smoky Mountains, and eventually found myself riding through South America on a big adventure bike.

As I see it, motorcycle travel is bucket list travel, and while I’ve crossed a hefty number of trips off my list, I’ve got a lot left to see. To that end, I’ve put together a list of the 25 top motorcycle trips here in the U.S. which I’d recommend—both from firsthand experience and reliable intel from older, wiser riders than myself. 

Best Motorcycle Trips in the Northeast

Hudson Valley Wilderness Loop

steve007/Getty Images

The Route

Heavy traffic is no place for a motorcycle. Anytime I find myself in New York on business and need to get away for the weekend, I know there’s one motorcycle ride near me I can always count on for fresh air. Escape the city heading north on Highway 9, and keep on trucking along the Hudson River until you hit 23 West and cross the Rip Van Winkle Bridge. From here, you’ll enter Catskill State Park, then turn back south.

Making your way back to the city, you’ll roll through Minnewaska State Park before catching the 208 all the way down into Harriman State Park and up into Bear Mountain State Park. Next, you’ll cross Bear Mountain Bridge and make your way back to civilization, dropping back down on Highway 9 and completing the loop.

Where to Stay

If rustic cabins aren’t your thing, Hotel Mountain Brook is a great luxury lodge in the Catskills that splits this loop neatly in two. (Check out the 15 best hotels in the Catskills.) You’ve got no shortage of lodging around New York City proper, but consider getting a head start and booking a room up around Yonkers for convenience.

Insider Tip

This route clocks in at around 250 miles point to point, but there’s no rush to tackle it all in a single day. Between the beautiful parks, river views, and laundry list of historical sites like the Roosevelt Presidential Library and Vanderbilt Mansion, you’d be wise to take it slow and make a three-day weekend out of this loop.

Pennsylvania Push

Walter Bibikow/Getty Images

The Route

While most folks know Pennsylvania for Hershey’s chocolate and French fries on salad, it’s actually home to a surprising number of outstanding motorcycle roads. Roads like Route 666, Route 113, and Gold Mine Road are known for their challenging turns and epic views, while alternatives like Grand Army of the Republic Highway and the historic Lincoln Highway/30 West serve up a slower pace that feels custom-made for bagger touring.

Where to Stay 

Cove Haven Resort offers up nice digs with views of the Pocono Mountains and Lake Wallenpaupack, while also being central to the Grand Army of the Republic Highway, which bisects the state for easy access to multiple areas.

Insider Tip

If you’ve got time, consider working Route 66 into your schedule as well. Both the route and scenery through Alleghany National Forest are worth the detour. 

Vermont Smuggler’s Run

Tom Narwid/Getty Images

The Route

Head up into Cambridge over Mt. Mansfield via Route 108 (aka “Smuggler’s Notch”), hang a right on Route 15, then drop back down on Route 100 to get the full experience of Vermont’s rugged countryside. A day trip out to Mt. Washington is also a worthwhile detour—and right up to the summit via Mt. Washington Auto Road when weather permits.

Where to Stay

The Lodge at Spruce Peak Hotel is hands down the sweetest spot to stay in the area, and central to some of the best riding in the state of Vermont.

Insider Tip

While the lush green of spring and summer are beautiful in their own right, fall in Vermont is not to be missed. The riding weather is excellent, and autumn colors here are arguably the most dramatic in the country. 

Best Motorcycle Trips in the Southeast

The Best of Daytona

The Route

Catch the A1A coastal highway outside of Jacksonville, FL, and ride south until you hit Daytona Beach proper. Once you’ve arrived, be sure to take advantage of the nearby “Ormond Scenic Loop” which runs north of the city through Bulow Creek State Park and Tamoka State Park before dropping you back out on the A1A at Flagler Beach. Remember, Daytona is one of the few places in the U.S. that allows you to ride your bike directly on the beach, so be sure to take advantage while you’re in town.

Where to Stay

There are dozens of resort hotels on Daytona Beach. I’ve never had a bad experience with a hotel in the area, but my favorites to date are either the Hard Rock or the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort.

Insider Tip

There are two reasons to bring a motorcycle to Daytona Beach: wild biker rallies and relaxation. If you want the former, plan on heading down at the beginning of March for the famed “Daytona Bike Week” or “Biketoberfest” at the end of October. If you want the latter, my favorite time to go is between April and May, as the race and party traffic subsides but the weather remains impeccable. 

North Georgia Mountain Tour

Tom Wozniak/500px/Getty Images

The Route

I’ve lived in Georgia for years, and I’m always blown away by both the quality and quantity of outstanding rides around the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest area. The best route I’d point newcomers to is “The Gauntlet,” a 130-plus mile loop out of Suches that features several of the area’s finest roads, including Wolf Pen Gap Road, the Blood Mountain portion of US-129, and Highway 60. The Unicoi Turnpike north of Helen is also worth working into a loop if you’re looking for the full experience.

Where to Stay

While you could always dip into any number of nearby mountain hotels, tradition dictates that I recommend staying at Two Wheels of Suches, a motorcycle-focused resort that’s central to all the best riding in the area. I’ve also had great experiences at Kennedy Creek Resort just up the road from Two’s, which offers camping, cabins, and lodging as well as a full service restaurant and bar.

Insider Tip

Many of the area’s roads are tailor-made for dragging footpegs, but don’t rule out North Georgia’s abundance of dirt forest service roads either. The Smoky Mountain 500 off-road route runs straight through Suches for a reason. 

Smoky Mountain Twist

Jill Lang/Getty Images

The Route

Three-hundred-eighteen curves in 11 miles along the Tail of the Dragon. High-speed, high-elevation sweepers on Cherohala Skyway. The old Moonshiner 28. The Smoky Mountains are home to the single greatest collection of twisty roads anywhere in the country—if not the world. This is where I cut my teeth on a sport bike as a teenager, and one I come back to as an adult as often as possible. People drive across the country to test their skills on these curves, and you should too.

Where to Stay

While we’ve typically stuck to cabin rentals on our trips to the Smokies, Fontana Village Resort is a longtime favorite in the area. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino is another favorite alternative if you fancy a little nightly entertainment, and also happens to have some of the most affordable rooms anywhere in the region.

Insider Tip

The Dragon’s Tail draws a lot of traffic, particularly on weekends, and the busier it gets, the more dangerous it becomes. If you want to test your skills on the gnarliest road in the country, I recommend either hitting it early in the morning, the middle of the week, or a combination of the two. 

Blue Ridge Bucket-Lister

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

The Route

Blue Ridge Parkway runs from Great Smoky Mountain National Park all the way up into Shenandoah National Park, spanning a whopping 469 miles across 20 different counties in North Carolina and Virginia. It starts along U.S. 441 and traces the ridge of the Blue Ridge chain through some of the most incredible mountain views of the southern U.S.

Where to Stay

While the Blue Ridge Parkway largely avoids dense population centers, it passes close enough to several cities for convenient lodging. We like to stop in Asheville, NC, for 100 different reasons—at least a dozen of which are top-notch breweries.

Insider Tip

If you’re looking to tackle the entire Blue Ridge Parkway for bragging rights, make sure you plan your trip in the warmer months. Sections of the road can be impassable for two-wheelers around winter due to snow and ice, so anything outside of late spring to early fall is asking for trouble. 

Best Motorcycle Trips in the Midwest

Ozark Mountain Explorer

Peter Essick/Getty Images

The Route 

What makes the area around the Ozark Mountains so special is there are more good roads than bad ones with epic views, endless switchbacks, and cool mountain towns in abundance anywhere you turn. Must-ride roads on the Arkansas side include Route 123 out of Mt. Judea (aka the “Arkansas Dragon”) and Route 23 from White Oak to Brashears (“The Pig Trail”). On the Missouri side, you’ll want to hit Hwy 125 from Sparta to Peels Ferry, then double back and take the detour up State Highway Uu (yep, double U)—also known as the Oldfield Loop.

Where to Stay

The small mountain town of Jasper is central to many of the great roads in the area, and also boasts a handful of restaurants within striking distance. You can stay at The Gordon Motel or Arkansas House River Inn if you want to keep it simple, but we recommend renting a cabin for the full experience.

Insider Tip

While “The Pig Tail” is as short as it is sweet, it packs a stunning amount of natural beauty into its north end. Go during the spring for a kaleidoscopic tour through massive blooms of wildflowers. 

Black Hills Pilgrimage

Adam Hester/Getty Images

The Route

There’s much more to the Black Hills than Sturgis. The two-lane road SD 34/WY24 offers an excellent tour of the area, while Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and Spearfish Canyon are all home to sweeping stretches of pavement as well.

Where to Stay

Lodges and boutique hotels are the norm in these parts, ranging from tiny B&Bs to larger venues like The Lodge at Deadwood.

Insider Tip

If you want to experience the hog-wild party that is the Sturgis motorcycle rally, it goes down in early August. Unfortunately, the influx of traffic also makes for crowded roads throughout the area, so get there well in advance of the rally to really enjoy the area. 

Route 66 Rambler

FrankvandenBergh/Getty Images

The Route 

Nicknamed “The Main Street of America,” few motorcycle trips are quite as iconic as Historic Route 66. Spanning from Chicago all the way to Los Angeles, your trip may start in the Midwest, but the full monty doesn’t end until you hit the Pacific Ocean.

Where to Stay

It’s a long road, and you’ll have plenty of options, but the history of Route 66 was written from roadside motels. For the full experience, consider working several into your route: just follow the neon signs.

Insider Tip

While a ride down Route 66 is without a doubt one of the most epic motorcycle trips you can take, it’s more about sightseeing and soaking up culture than it is high-octane excitement. Leave the sport bike or hyper-naked at home and opt for something with a comfortable seat and ample wind protection. Cruise control comes in handy, too.

Great Lakes Roll

Kyle Stopczynski/Getty Images

The Route

The crown jewel of the Great Lake’s region is Michigan’s M-119, the aptly named “tunnel of trees” that runs along lake Michigan flanked on both sides by dense foliage. Unfortunately, M-119 only runs for about 20 miles, so we recommend making a loop using Hwy 31 and dropping down into Otsego Lake, heading east toward Twin Lakes, then into Fairview. You can take backroads back to the start, or just hop on I-75 for a straight shot home.

Where to Stay

Stafford’s Crooked River Lodge gets our vote. Clean rooms, a nice big fireplace, river access, and pool tables are just a few perks here between rides.

Insider Tip

While no motorcycles are allowed on Mackinac Island, it’s a great day trip to break up the riding. Shelper’s Ferry offers free day-use parking for motorcycles while you’re off exploring. 

Best Motorcycle Trips Out West

Pride of the Pacific Tour

Doug Meek/Getty Images

The Route

For this trip, it’s all about California State Route 1, aka the Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH). You can start in Los Angeles if you want to cruise through Malibu and Point Mugu State Park or, if you’d rather cut to the chase, begin in Morro Bay outside of San Luis Obispo and head north. When I was living in California, this was the one motorcycle ride near me I savored more than any other. There’s simply nothing else like it in the country.

Where to Stay

Personally, I’ve always liked to stay and do a little motorcycle camping in the area, either inside Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or in one of the privately owned campgrounds like Riverside Campground & Cabins. You’ll be hard-pressed to find vacancy anywhere on the main drag, but both Carmel and San Luis Obispo have clean hotels close enough to the action.

Insider Tip

While the views from the Pacific Coast Highway going through Big Sur are some of the finest in the country, there are dozens of hidden gems hidden just off the beaten path. If you’ve got a motorcycle you don’t mind riding on gravel roads, don’t be afraid to explore some of the offshoots that climb up away from the water. This is how I’ve stumbled on many of my favorite spots in the area, and that’s all I’m willing to share on the matter. 

Rocky Mountain Run

Brad McGinley Photography/Getty Images

The Route

The natural Rocky Mountain beauty surrounding Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway runs from Silverton to Ouray along U.S. Route 550 (aka the San Juan Skyway)—an already stunning 233-mile expanse of asphalt. Elevations approaching 10,000 feet mean you’ll need to pack layers year-round, and avoid winter months completely.

Where to Stay

Lodge in Durango, and you’ll have the run of the San Juan Skyway with a solid, amenity-filled home base.

Insider Tip

Guardrails are few and the drop-offs are steep, so keep your eyes on the road and off the scenery out on the twisties.

San Diego Desert Tour

Sumiko Scott/Getty Images

The Route

I spent several years living in downtown San Diego, and my favorite motorcycle ride was always a weekend getaway to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Head east out of the city on I-8, then pick up Sunrise Highway for a scenic summit of Mt. Laguna.

Ride into Julian, then pick up Highway 78 into Anza-Borrego proper. Riding 78 is mainly about taking in the scenery, but if you’re up for a challenging detour, head north into the town of Borrego Springs and try your hand along the twists and turns of Montezuma Valley Road.

Where to Stay 

You’ve got tons of options for lodging in downtown San Diego, ranging from the sky-high ocean views of Manchester Grand Hyatt to the riotous nightlife of Gaslamp District. If you’d rather stay out of the city, Borrego Valley Inn is the epitome of an old-school desert hotel, while the cozy little mountain town of Julian offers ample cabin rentals and some of the best apple pie I’ve ever stuck a fork in.

Insider Tip

There are hundreds of miles of Jeep trails to enjoy scattered around Anza-Borrego. Consider riding/renting an adventure bike with decent suspension and knobby tires to get the full desert experience. 

Leaving Las Vegas Loop

Tim E White/Getty Images

The Route

Once I’ve put a sizable dent in my savings account at the craps table, I find peace knowing there’s no shortage of excellent motorcycle rides near me around Sin City. Take SR-167 up through the Valley of Fire, SR-159 through Red Rock Canyon, or SR-158 to the peak of Mt. Charleston while you contemplate the consequences of your poor financial decisions.

Where to Stay

Needless to say, you’ve got plenty of options for lodging in Las Vegas—but for the true “fear and loathing” cultural experience, I prefer to stay in “Old Vegas” in one of the nicer hotels around Fremont street, like Circa or The D.

Insider Tip

The riding around Las Vegas is truly a hidden gem, but the weather out in the desert can get downright brutal in the colder months. Late spring to early fall is your best bet without serious insulation and a healthy dose of heated gear. 

Denali Highway Heaven

Joe Sohm/Visions of America/Getty Images

The Route

Another single-road destination, Alaska’s Denali Highway is a 135-mile stretch of Alaska Route 8 that runs between the towns of Paxson and Cantwell. If you want the full epic Alaska experience, consider heading north at its terminus up Route 3, then catching Route 2 to Route 11 all the way up into Prudhoe Bay.

Where to Stay

You’ll want to start your journey from Denali Highway Cabins in Paxon, which were still the only game in town last time I checked. If you want to break the ride into a two-day journey, Alpine Creek Lodge splits the route around halfway, just before the Susitna River.

Insider Tip

Denali Highway is only open to vehicle traffic from May to October, and is almost entirely made up of semi-maintained gravel roads. The terrain isn’t particularly challenging, but most bikes will need to mind their lines due to mud puddles and occasional ruts. 

Sleepless in Seattle Tour

Joel Rogers/Getty Images

The Route

Nearby attractions include awe-inspiring Mount Rainier, rural Bainbridge Island, and scenic Snoqualmie Falls. More ambitious day-trippers might consider heading to Victoria, British Columbia, which can be accessed by ferry.

Where to Stay

The usual big city-style digs are available downtown, but veering toward the outskirts widen your possibilities considerably.

Insider Tip

It’s going to rain. Pack a full suit of raingear, and wherever you stay, make sure they’ve got hot showers. 

City of Angels Escape

Pete Saloutos/Getty Images

The Route

While the city of Los Angeles is best known for its abysmal traffic and overpriced gasoline, the surrounding mountains are home to some of the best curves in the country, bar none. Angeles Crest Highway is a local favorite for knee draggers and cruisers alike, while Malibu’s Mulholland Highway is a world-famous destination for sport bikes and exotic cars alike.

Where to Stay

You’ll find no shortage of plush hotels around Hollywood. I’ve always been partial to the retro vibe of Hollywood Roosevelt and its Tropicana Pool bar. If you’d prefer to avoid the strip altogether, you can always treat yourself to a room along the Malibu coast.

Insider Tip

LA’s famous curves can get a bit overcrowded on the weekends, so try hitting them either early in the morning or in the middle of the week for best results. I prefer riding into the city of Azusa and hitting either State Route 39 instead (aka Azusa Canyon) or cutting over onto Glendora Mountain Road to the top of Mt. Baldy. 

Northwest Passage Explorer

Sumiko Scott/Getty Images

The Route

Formerly known as the Lewis & Clark Highway, the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway offers 202 miles of raw nature in the form of canyons, waterways, and mountains. For the complete experience, take U.S. Route 12 from the Washington state line to Lolo Pass in Montana.

Where to Stay

Hotels are few and far between, so plan ahead for a stay at the Lodge at Lolo Hot Springs.

Insider Tip

Visit the Nez Perce National Historic Park at Spalding (just outside of Lewiston), which houses a museum and research center. The spot also features three sites used by the Lewis & Clark Expedition.

The Big Kahuna

Juan Maria Coy Vergara/Getty Images

The Route

On Hawaii’s Big Island, start on Highway 19 and make your way around the east coast of the island, soaking in the jaw-dropping juxtaposition of sweeping ocean views to your left and lush green mountains to your right. Ride down into Hilo and pick up the 11, which will take you into Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park for a volcanic tour you’ll never forget.

Where to Stay

While posh hotels dot the island’s desirable west coast, the recently renovated Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa offers a refreshing balance of prime beach access and low-key ambiance.

Insider Tip

Saddle Road offers an efficient route through the heart of the island, but its roller-coaster-like twists and smooth pavement make it worthy of repeat visits just for the thrill. 

Southern Utah Spectacular

Avik Chakraborty/Getty Images

The Route

The 54-mile scenic byway that runs along Highway 9 from I-15 to Mt. Carmel Junction is the main attraction here, but don’t rule out the surrounding landmarks. Zion is a great starting point to venture out to Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell, or even the Grand Canyon trip outlined below.

Where to Stay

While top spots like Zion Lodge and Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort offer civilized amenities, hardcore nature lovers will want to rough it by hitting one of Zion’s three official campgrounds.

Insider Tip

Zion can get insanely crowded during peak season. Try to plan your ride through the park itself during the week, then stick to the surrounding points of interest during the weekend.

Yellowstone Loop

John Morrison/Getty Images

The Route

The 142-mile Grand Loop swings around Yellowstone, touching all the park’s greatest hits, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Fountain Pots and, of course, Old Faithful.

Where to Stay

While campgrounds abound within the park, you’ll want to investigate hotels or vacation rentals in nearby gateway towns as this park has never been more popular for year-round tourism.

Insider Tip

Though it sounds digestible in one day, you’ll want to break the loop into several outings because speed limits cap at 45 mph and sightseeing stops are plentiful. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife, which has a habit of wandering onto the roadway.

Best Motorcycle Trips in the Southwest

Grand Canyon Traverse

Dean Fikar/Getty Images

The Route

If you’ve never been to the Grand Canyon before, you’ll likely want to hit Grand Canyon Village at the parks’ South Rim entrance, but if you prefer to skip the touristy stuff and focus on a damn good ride, keep it moving east along Route 64. Catch Highway 89 and make your way north across the open desert through the Navajo Nation, then cross the Colorado River and head over toward Route 67. Route 67 south will land you at the North Rim of the canyon, which offers equally incredible scenery without the body count.

Where to Stay

The Grand Canyon Lodge is the only game in town if you’re looking to stay inside the park on the North Rim. It closes until spring after mid-October, however, so if you’re looking to visit in the fall or winter, your best bet is an Airbnb outside the park.

Insider Tip

Book your accommodations well ahead of time, as venues consistently sell out during peak months.

Wild West Wanderer

James O'Neill/Getty Images

The Route

On the edge of Arizona and Utah, you’ll feel like you stepped into a John Ford western when you saddle up on these long stretches of lonely highway that cut through the sandstone buttes of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The most recognizable section is the 17-mile Valley Drive loop, but you’ll also want to take in all 45 miles of Highway 163, as the majority of the unique stone monuments in the region can be seen directly off this stretch.

Where to Stay

The View Hotel is a good place to start. Its name couldn’t be more fitting, as every room on the property faces The Mittens, Monument Valley’s most famous formation.

Insider Tip

While the loop road is only 17 miles long, it typically takes at least two hours to complete due to the popularity of the region. Bring your hiking shoes and plan extra time to get up close and personal to some of the monuments for best results. 

Lone Star’s Finest

Amy Sparwasser/Getty Images

The Route

Austin may be best known for its quirky downtown and damn fine BBQ, but it’s also one of the only parts of Texas that’s home to some good riding. Get out of town and hit the “Hundred Mile Loop” spanning RR335, RR336, and RR337 for a roller coaster ride through the best of Texas Hill Country.

Where to Stay 

Feeling fancy? Book a room at Driskill, InterContinental, Omni, or the W. Want to keep Austin weird? Go for almost any place on Congress Street, like the funky, earthy Hotel San José.

Insider Tip

Don’t miss the opportunity to join Willie, Waylon, and the boys with a detour into Luckenbach, west of Austin. It’s a post office, bar, and music venue all rolled into one, and home to some of the best local music talent of the area. 

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