It’s the new year and millions of Australians are looking to focus on their health in 2024, with many of them taking up running as a simple way to stay fit.
9Honey Coach sat down with Keep It Cleaner (KIC) founder Steph Claire Smith to break down how to start running from scratch and not lose the motivation.
And yes, it turns out there is a way to make running “enjoyable” – at least according to her.
Smith’s biggest piece of advice for Aussies taking up running in 2024 is to be realistic with your goals and take it one step at a time (no pun intended).
“When you learn to slow down and listen to your body, your runs will be a lot more enjoyable, and you’ll be a lot more inclined to keep running towards your goal,” Smith adds.
Find a beginner’s program designed by experts online, like the KICRUN 0-5km program, and watch YouTube videos to get your form down first.
“Let’s say your goal is to run 5km – that’s amazing, go you!” she says.
“Even if it’s been years since you’ve gone for a run, this goal is achievable, you just need to allow yourself enough time to gradually increase your stamina.”
There are so many resources available online to help you find your pace without pushing you to the limit and ending up exhausted, injured and unmotivated.
It’s always a good idea to check your running form before smashing out a 5km dash.
Smith’s most important pointers are to run tall but forward, almost as if you’re catching yourself from falling each step and focus on your breath.
While running, try to drop your shoulders and unclench your jaw, keep your pelvis neutral and don’t lean at the back or waist as you tire.
Equipment for running
The great thing about running is that you don’t have to spend a fortune on gear, all you really need is a good pair of shorts and a proper pair of runners.
“The one thing I’d recommend investing in is supportive runners, it’s the one tool you need to start your running journey,” Smith says.
Smith made plenty of rookie mistakes when she first started running, like forgetting to warm up and cool down.
“Or thinking I can run 5km off the bat without any training, then feeling down on myself because I didn’t hit the unrealistic goal I’d set for myself,” she adds.
Another big blunder was wearing ‘cool’ sneakers instead of runners that actually support her foot properly, putting her at risk of injuries.
Staying motivated to run
What’s the best way to stay motivated to run when you’re just starting out?
“Know that if you need to slow down and take a walking break that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Sometimes we just need to stop, take a breather, and get back out there,” Smith says.
“And you can’t beat an epic playlist to power you through a run!”
Aussies aiming for weight loss may cut calories when they start running but Smith warns against it, saying, “Carbs are going to be your BFF!”
Kic’s dietitian Liv Morrison recommends eating a snack one to two hours before your run that’s high in quick-acting carbohydrates and low in protein, fibre and fat.
Dates, dried fruits, crumpets, toast or rice cakes with honey, creamed rice, flavoured milk and muesli bars are a few easy picks.
Refuel with carbohydrates again an hour to 90 minutes after your run too, even if you don’t have much of an appetite.
“You want to refuel with carbohydrates because your body is best at replacing glycogen stores within this time frame to help repair our muscles,” Smith says.
“You can Opt for a snack like fruit toast with butter or a smoothie with banana and milk.”
If the mercury is cranking but you still want to maintain your running fitness, there are some important things to be aware of before you lace up your trainers and hit the pavement.
Of course, running on a treadmill in the air-con is a much more comfortable move – but not always feasible.
If you’re a runner, or getting into running, here’s what you need to know to help you perform without putting yourself at risk.
When we get hot, our body releases sweat, which helps us cool off as it evaporates from our skin. The hotter the weather, the more you’re likely to sweat and get dehydrated.
In hot, dry climates, the sweat evaporates really quickly, which can accelerate dehydration. Plus, as more blood pumps to the skin to try and release heat, the heart has to pump harder and you will likely find your heart is beating faster even though your intensity has stayed the same.
In humid climates, your body’s evaporation rate declines because there is already lots of water in the air, which can cause your body to overheat and force you to slow down.
On top of that, the heat and sun cause an elevation in your core body temperature, which makes running much harder.
All of these elements combined can put your body at risk of overheating.
“Major signs of overheating are a dry mouth, headache and blurry vision. The first sign from the outside of the body is a red face,” Mark Howard from Running Coach Melbourne told 9Honey Coach.
“‘If any of these are present stop exercising and get some fluids in the body and apply an ice pack [to the armpit, neck, head and groin] to cool you down.”
Overheating can cause heat exhaustion, possible fainting, or muscle cramps that can lead to injuries if you push too hard.
“Older runners without a large fitness base could even be at risk of stroke,” Howard explains.
If you want to go for a run, then the obvious best idea would be to run first thing in the morning before the sun is high, or at night after the sun is setting.
“Wear a hat and sunscreen and stick to shaded areas as best as you can, especially on days that are over 35 degrees,” Howard says.
“Avoid eating salty foods that will dehydrate you. Fresh fruit is an ideal pre-run snack.”
If you go to the bathroom and your wee is dark yellow then you are dehydrated – for optimum hydration, you should have clear urine.
“It’s important you don’t run for long periods without hydration,” Howard points out.
“Drink plenty of water before, during and after a run, or drink an electrolyte sports drink during your run, which can assist with delivering fluid and fuel around your body to keep you running at an optimum level.”
Face it: You’ll have to run slower
If you’re going to run in the hot weather, then don’t aim for a PB because your body’s physiological processes are going to slow you down.
“On hot days, you might like to do shorter sessions, such as interval or speed training,” Howard suggests.
“Train somewhere with ample shade so when you are in recovery mode you can stand or sit in the shade.”
When it comes to making New Year’s resolutions, people seem to be in two very separate camps: they love them, or they hate them.
While it’s good to have a goal to work towards, sometimes having those resolutions hanging over your head can lead to feelings of failure if you don’t quite get there.
But the approach to resolutions doesn’t have to be so black and white.
Just ask Keiser physiotherapist Tim Dettmenn, who thinks we need to revamp our “all or nothing approach” to New Year’s resolutions.
Dettmenn says while he thinks resolution-setting is generally a good idea, “I think a lot of people set themselves up for failure with them,” he tells 9Honey Coach.
“I care most about people’s health,” he explains, “and the biggest thing that predicts people’s health is consistency.
“I don’t care what you do in February. I care what you’re still doing in November.”
The main issue Dettmenn sees, especially when working with clients over the age of 30, is that most people are trying to keep up with unrealistic expectations.
“The fitness industry in this country caters to fit and strong people, to make them better and stronger,” he explains, adding most “regular” Aussies are coming to their fitness journey a little bit unhealthy or a little bit injured or a little bit sore.
Many health and fitness programs found online are “catered for a 25-year-old who’s got no injuries and is already fit”, says Dettmann. But the average Aussie is 50 years old, and half of our population has a chronic disease.
“I would recommend for people between the ages of 30 and 60 to go to physio first, and one with an interest in exercise, because they will give you the safe and injury-free plan to get into exercise starting from a low base.
“I think physios are better equipped to help people starting from a lower base.”
Dettmenn is an advocate for creating long-term habits rather than big, overarching goals. Of course, you can still tie those into your New Year’s resolutions.
Instead of making the goal to ‘lose 5kg’, your goals could be to ‘walk 5,000 steps a day’ or ‘eat five servings of veggies each day’.
Dettmann says clients come to him with a huge motivation to change their lives.
“They say, ‘I’m gonna go to the gym four times a week’,” he says. “You don’t need to. You need to go to the gym twice, for 30 minutes at a time – not four times, for 60 minutes.
“That’s all you need to do to get the health benefits.”
The first conversations he has with clients are all about how “you may not need to do as much as you think to be really helpful”.
It’s better to keep up your simple healthy habits in November than it is to go gung-ho at the beginning of the year but give up by February.
“A lot of people start a New Year’s resolution. They do it perfectly in January. Then they miss one session on the first of February.
“And our reptilian brain is so ‘all or nothing that we think ‘I missed one session. I’ve ruined my entire year’.
“Whereas, the philosophy should be: ‘I missed one session. Who cares? I just won’t miss two’.”
Having a commitment to never miss twice in a row – whether it’s getting your steps in, heading to the gym, or eating your veggies – is the best way to help people commit to their goals.
Whether you’re short on time, or just hate gyms, there are a ton of great exercises you can do at home that’ll give you just as good of a workout.
And you don’t even need expensive equipment. Sam Wood has designed a workout for 9Honey Coach using nothing but a simple resistance band. Don’t have one? You can get them from Kmart for just $6.
“I get asked all the time, ‘how do I do an upper body workout if I don’t like going to the gym or having an elaborate gym set up at home’?,” says the personal trainer and founder of 28bysamwood.
Wood designed a workout that features five upper-body movements, to build strength in the arms, shoulders and back. And all you need for it is a resistance band.
Exercise one is a lat pulldown, ”which is a great exercise for our lats in our back,” explains Wood.
You just need to find an anchor point for the band, like a beam or the top of a door. You can also buy inexpensive anchors that allow you to turn any door into a frame for your resistance band.
Then sit with your legs bent in front of you, and pull the bands down in front of your face.
Next up is a bench press, without the need for a bench or dumbbells. Wrap the band around your shoulders, lie on your back, and press your hands up above your face.
Just like weights in the gym, you can get resistance bands of different strengths, allowing you to progress to a heavier resistance as time goes on.
Next, an overhead shoulder press can be done by using your feet to anchor the band, then gripping it and bringing it from the shoulders to above your head.
Here, make sure you’re squeezing your core to make sure you’re not putting any strain on the lower back, and that your shoulders are doing all the work.
Finally, the workout ends with two arm exercises. “For our triceps, we want to push the resistance down,” Wood explains, “and for our biceps, we want to curl the resistance out.”
For the tricep pushdowns, you’ll again need to loop your band on an overhead anchor. For the bicep curls, anchor the band with your feet the same way you did for shoulder presses.
WATCH: You can also try this quick 10-minute workout from Sam Wood
If there’s one thing TikTok loves, it’s a fitness trend.
From 75 Hard and the primal method, to hot girl walks and cosy cardio, it’s almost impossible to not be sucked in by a new trendy workout each week.
Fitness equipment supplier LifeSpan Fitness combed through TikTok data to find the top searched fitness trends, and found that reformer pilates was the most popular fitness regimen on the app, with a total of 238,400 people searching it every month.
But how good are these trends, really? Which are worth looking into, and which are more likely to be a passing fad?
9Honey Coach chatted with fitness instructor and PT Kate Groube from Genesis Health & Fitness, to pick her brain on the pros and cons of these trends
Reformer Pilates
“I’ve always been a big fan of Reformer Pilates,” says Groube. “It has definitely been making a comeback because of its ability to suit different fitness levels and also tick both the physical and mental wellbeing boxes.
“We have young people doing it, their mothers, athletes and beginners – there aren’t many forms of exercise that have appeal to such a wide range of people. Due to the unique nature of the reformer machine, it can be both challenging for those who want that and supportive for those who need it.”
“As it becomes more widespread we’re also seeing it become more affordable, which is great, as typically it has been a more expensive form of exercise.”
Groube continues: “Reformer Pilates allows people to focus on their breathing and being in their body in the moment in a calm and relaxing environment and is great for injury prevention too.”
On the downside, Reformer Pilates can’t be done without the right equipment and ideally needs a good instructor to teach you and ensure good form.
“Unless you can afford a Reformer machine and have the space to set one up, you’re not able to access this form of exercise at home.
“You also need to ensure you’re doing additional exercise to get your cardio workouts in, as you don’t really get your heart rate up high enough or sustain it for long enough to get a suitable cardiovascular benefit.”
“Many Reformer Pilates participants actually have a weight loss goal, and to attain weight loss, Reformer is ideally part of an overall fitness program. Integrating strength and cardio with Reformer will most effectively help people achieve their physical and wellbeing goals.”
75 Hard challenge
The 75 Hard Challenge asks people to take part in 75 days of zero cheat days or alcohol, requires four litres of water per day, two 45-minute workouts, a daily progress picture and reading 10 pages of a self-development book.
It was created in 2019 by entrepreneur Andy Frisella, with the website claiming it is not a fitness regimen but a “transformative mental toughness program”.
“This challenge could achieve fast results,” explains Groube, “but it demands a very high level of dedication that may not be the enjoyable experience that many people are looking for with their fitness and wellness.
“The all-or-nothing philosophy can also be difficult to mentally sustain, meaning you may just give up.
“Two workouts a day concerns me for those who are just starting out or returning to fitness after a break – although you may be filled with enthusiasm, it could be too much too soon physically and the risk for injury and fatigue is very real.”
“The focus on hydration is great – most people don’t drink enough water – but putting an exact figure on the number of litres doesn’t account for individual needs at all.
“I think this one very much comes down to your personality and if it resonates, or not.”
Under-desk treadmill
This is the third most popular fitness trend, with over 70,600 monthly searches. Under-desk treadmills are proving to be the next growing trend that many are keeping tabs on, seeing over 3.3 million views.
“We all know the dangers of sitting for too long. Studies suggest prolonged sitting can increase the risk of chronic health issues and even shorten your lifespan,” says Groube. “It’s a contributor to weight gain and can lead to poor posture and muscle imbalances.
“Now many of us are working from home, it’s likely we’re sitting even more because the commute to work is a short walk to the home office and some days, as you work your way through a series of online meetings, there is little reason to venture too far from your computer.
Pairing an under-desk treadmill with a standing desk – if you have space and can afford it – is going to enable you to get more steps in your day, boost your energy, improve your posture and much more.
However, Groube says that she’s not sure how good it will be in the long run.
“There is a risk of injury there given you’re multi-tasking and they’re only really designed for low-intensity walking.
“And sometimes, the real benefit of exercise is the mental benefit and the break that it gives you from your work and your current environment – it’s that change of scenery and mental refresh that’s sometimes just as beneficial as the physical exercise itself.
“How many standing desks have you seen in the office that are permanently set at sitting desk height now? It could be that under-desk treadmills will just become another piece of dusty office furniture. But don’t knock it until you try it, I guess!”
12-3-30 Treadmill Workout
With 65,030 monthly searches on TikTok, this involves setting a treadmill to a 12 per cent incline and walking at three miles per hour (just under 5 km/h) for 30 minutes.
The concept originated from social media influencer Lauren Giraldo, who shared it on YouTube in 2019 and again on TikTok in November 2020, where a video explaining the workout racked up nearly 12 million views and more than 2.7 million likes.
“I love this idea because it’s simple and it’s a fresh way to use a piece of gym equipment that’s been around for a very long time, says Groube. “And regular walking at a brisk pace has a tonne of benefits.”
“The thing to be wary of is that when you walk up that steep of a grade, it’s a lot of load on your lower back and demands a lot of your hamstrings and calves. Some people may benefit from starting at a lower incline. I’d flag it as a risk for people with knee problems too, just be wary.
“Regarding the weight loss claims, it’s definitely a workout that will help your health but, bang for buck, it’s not the most effective workout to achieve fat loss or cardiovascular health results.
“If fat loss is your goal, there are many other workouts that can achieve the same or better results but with more variety, such as HIIT or boxing.”
Weighted Hula Hoop
You’re probably familiar with the hula hoop, but the weighted hula hoop is a whole new idea. While the former is a classic children’s toy, the latter has become the next big thing in personal fitness, thanks to social media.
“This is great because it’s fun and adds movement to your day in a way that will get you smiling and boost your mood. It’s also great for coordination and balance,” says Groube.
“Is it going to replace your normal strength and cardio routine? No. But it’s certainly going to contribute to strengthening your abdominal muscles, obliques and lower back.”
“As with most forms of exercise, incorrect form or excessive motions can cause strain on muscles and joints. Be sure to practice, start slowly, focus on proper form and take breaks as needed.”
Overall, Groube says it’s good to take any new trends with a grain of salt.
“When these new trends come along, it’s easy to get excited and jump straight in, but it’s important to be realistic and understand your own body and how it may respond and what challenges you may face based on previous injuries and where you’re at in your fitness journey.
“When it’s available, rely on the science-backed results to help you determine if the fad has merit.
“Exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore and at the end of the day, any movement is better than no movement – so the more options out there the better.
“Do what resonates and excites you but to do some research first and be wary if a fitness trend sounds too good to be true… because it probably is!”
1. We’re always being promised ‘the secret’ to getting and staying healthy. What’s yours?
My secret is that I make sleep my priority and it allows me to feel happy, healthier and more energised.
2. What’s something you know now about health you wish you could go back in time and tell yourself five or 10 years ago?
I’ve learnt that recovery is key to everything… whether it be recovery ice baths, food, sleep or stretching. It is important to give your body and mind time to heal.
Although I like to eat nourishing foods, I do trust in my body and eat what it feels like on the day. Trying to maintain a healthy diet can be hard at times but it definitely won’t hurt to have a cheeky treat now and then.
4. What’s one area of your own health, fitness or wellbeing you’re working to improve?
Allowing more downtime to spend with family or alone with the business of my life; it’s important to give back to myself and it’s something I’ve been working on.
5. What’s a small, practical step you’d tell a friend to make if they asked your advice on something they can do to improve their health, starting today?
Drinking lots and lots of water… Staying hydrated in the Queensland heat is something not a lot of people maintain.
Although water will quench your thirst, it’s also essential to keeping your body functioning properly and feeling healthy.
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As the holiday season approaches, we’re tasked with the impossible: selecting gifts for Mom. Expressing your love and appreciation for the woman who’s been there since day one in a present is no small feat. Gift-giving is an art, and when it comes to showing how much she means to you, the right Christmas gifts for Mom can speak volumes. It’s not about the price tag, but rather the thought and intention put into your selection.
We’ll level with you. It’s absolutely easier to buy golf gifts, gifts for new dads, and gifts for gym lovers. The items are hyper-specific with a small margin of error. For the true last-minute procrastinator, there are even clutch Amazon gifts for men that take the pressure off holiday shopping. But when it comes to gifts for her, you might feel out of your depth.
So, if you’re ready to show your admiration for your mom, mother-in-law, or any other maternal figure in your life, we’ve curated a special list of Christmas gifts for Mom from son that’ll not only bring her joy, but also serve as a testament to your understanding of her unique tastes and preferences.
Our Testing Process
We’re lifestyle editors who’ve spent our careers testing and reviewing products in the fitness, health, beauty, spirits, tech, culinary, gear, and home goods space. What follows is a list of 27 Christmas gifts for Mom, no matter your relation, that run the gamut from luxurious fashion pieces and skincare to indulgent home upgrades, as well as 25 Christmas gifts for Mom from son that don’t require any style know-how if the idea of choosing the right size and color make you uneasy. We’ve made a point to personally review most of the items included to give you a true sense of their usefulness, distinctiveness and, ultimately, what makes them special.
27 Christmas Gifts for Mom
Of course, we want to offer gifts for Mom this Christmas that don’t necessarily have to come from sons. For daughters, daughters-in-law, and anyone else seeking thoughtful Christmas gifts for mom, these fit the bill.
1. De’Longhi TrueBrew Drip Coffee Maker
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Christmas gifts for Mom that are practically plug-and-play are always a good choice. De’Longhi TrueBrew Drip Coffee Maker is an excellent upgrade to her current everyday coffee maker, or something she pulls out for entertaining friends and extended family. A built-in conical burr grinder granulates whole beans in the hopper on top to ensure freshness whether brewing a 3-oz espresso, 8-, 12-, 16- or 24-oz single cup of coffee, or 40-oz carafe. The true beauty of this machine is how intuitive it is (great if Mom doesn’t like to read manuals or is apprehensive to stray from what she knows and loves). She can simply press what brew style she wants—Light, Gold, Bold, Over Ice, or Espresso—and TrueBrew Drip Coffee Maker does the rest. Cleanup is just as streamlined. The machine condenses coffee grounds into dense little pucks, which can be used as compost or disposed—there are no filters or pods to recycle.
If you’re looking for jewelry gifts for Mom that have major wow factor while still being extremely wearable for day-to-day, spring for the Peace Jewelers 14K Gold Cultured Diamond Tennis Bracelet. The eye-catching bracelet features round brilliant-cut cultivated diamonds that reflect light beautifully. You can choose among 3, 5, 7, and 10 carats set in 14K white or yellow gold. It’s a striking piece whether she’s pairing it with jeans and a sweater or a black tie wedding gown.
3. Pom Pom at Home Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set
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Direct-to-consumer bedding companies have bewitched shoppers with ubiquitous ads, but clever marketing doesn’t equate to quality products. Pom Pom at Home is helmed by Hilde Leiaghat. The Belgian-born designer and CEO was deeply inspired by shopping at vintage markets growing up and that’s reflected in the company’s offerings. I’m currently obsessing over the . Boasting a 300-thread count, these have a silky-smooth texture that drapes effortlessly for a more put-together aesthetic if Mom doesn’t like the lived-in look of linen. Bamboo is naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and helps regulate temperature so they’re perfect for hot sleepers. I always look forward to these sheets the most in my rotation.
4. Apotheke Advent Calendar
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Advent calendars are the gift that keeps on giving (literally), but oftentimes are stuffed with less-than-exciting fillers. This enormous 25-day is the real deal. After the month is through, your mom’s place is going to smell beyond amazing, thanks to 16 mini candles, two larger 5-oz candles, and multiple reed diffusers. The calendar also has candle accoutrements like a trimmer and snuffer. Even better for you and other members of your family—the scents are not headache-inducing.
5. Everlane Italian Wool Oversized Blazer
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Everlane Italian Wool Oversized Blazer hits all the right marks. It’s slightly oversized without feeling (or looking) like she’s swimming in it; there’s no back vent for a seamless look; and it’s crafted from recycled Italian wool that’s warm and timeless. While some boxy blazers and waistcoats sport exaggeratedly long sleeves, these are tailored just right. It’s a workhorse for fall, acting as an outerlayer over turtlenecks and T-shirts. Come winter, she can wear it under a roomy wool coat. This will exceed her expectations—it certainly surpassed mine! Unlike the linen blazers in my rotation, I never have to worry about this wrinkling. Colorways include classic hues and patterns like Grey Herringbone (shown here), Glen Plaid, and Camel Houndstooth.
6. Desmond & Dempsey Long Lounge Set
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Pajama sets tend to be a bit kitschy—especially when they’re given as holiday gifts. For something more wearable for everyday lounging, it’s hard to beat the Desmond & Dempsey Long Lounge Set. The soft linen button-down shirt and pants come in a variety of colors from Marrakesh-inspired Lazuli Blue to stonewashed Oat Linen. They couldn’t be better suited to slow mornings—or wrangling grandchildren.
7. Jenni Kayne Alpaca Throw
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The Jenni Kayne Alpaca Throw is a super-luxe throw blanket that adds cozy elegance to any room. Made from basket-woven alpaca in the mountains of Peru, it’ll turn Mom’s favorite armchair or reading nook into a warm respite from winter’s worst. What’s better than the gift of warmth and comfort for the woman who’s always been your personal source of both? We give you permission to write that on her card. If you really want to score big with gifts for Mom, include a sweater stone so she can maintain the throw over time (it gently removes pilling).
8. Aarke Kettle
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At Men’s Journal, we’re suckers for items that live at the intersection of style and design. Aarke Kettle is the perfect example of form and function. It’s a striking piece, made from stainless steel with a heat-retaining double-wall construction to reduce noise and make it more energy-efficient. Mom can choose a temperature range between 104 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on how hot she likes her tea. Safety features include an LED cool-down indicator, a heat-safe handle, and dry boil protection that automatically turns the kettle off when accidentally trying to boil with too little water or none at all. My favorite thoughtful touches are the removable, dishwasher-safe limescale filter, soft-close top, and no-drip spout. With a maximum boiling volume of 1.2 liters (about 5 cups), it’s plenty big for entertaining.
9. Boll & Branch Plush Bath Sheet Set
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Help give her bathroom the refresh it needs with the Boll & Branch Plush Bath Sheet Set. Crafted from 100 percent organic cotton and designed for maximum softness and absorbency, these towels are not only gentle on the skin but also on the environment. The set comes with two washcloths, two hand towels, and two enormous bath sheets. In my opinion, the jumbo size of sheets are far superior to regular towels.
10. DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro
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While some skincare tools feel a bit gimmicky, others are backed by science. LED light therapy devices are clinically proven to stimulate collagen production and kill the bacteria that causes acne. DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro from renowned dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross is FDA-cleared to promote clearer, firmer skin with just three minutes of use per day. There are 100 LED lights in red mode that penetrate deep into the dermis to stimulate the mitochondria within cells to produce collagen, improve density, smooth wrinkles, and fade hyperpigmentation. The blue mode uses 62 LED lights to target and eliminate P. acnes bacteria to help clear acne and prevent future breakouts. And a combination of blue and red provides the benefits of both. I love Christmas gifts for Mom that include some splurges she probably wouldn’t buy for herself.
11. Byredo Le Corps Body Lotion + Wash Set
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Byredo Le Corps Body Lotion + Wash Set is an indulgent duo of body wash and lotion formulated with moisturizing ingredients. Available in five of Byredo’s most iconic scents—Rose of No Man’s Land, Mojave Ghost, Gypsy Water, Bal D’Afrique, and Le Corps Blanche—you can introduce Mom to something new or purchase her go-to scent if she’s already beguiled by Byredo. If you’re unsure, Gypsy Water is among the brand’s most popular scents, with notes of pine, sandalwood, amber, and citrus. The limited-edition packaging also boasts graphics by Swedish illustrator John Bauer so you don’t even need to wrap it.
12. La Mer Firming Moisture Skincare Collection
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Looking to splurge on Christmas gifts for Mom? Treat her to top-of-the-line skincare with La Mer Firming Moisture Skincare Collection. Deeply hydrating, the products are packed with potent marine ingredients that will leave her skin radiant. Each item in the kit is designed to use in tandem with one another. The Treatment Lotion preps skin for the Lifting and Firming Mask, a cream mask that has the sculpting strength of a targeted serum to leave skin looking and feeling firmer; the Lifting Eye Serum rejuvenates and smoothes fine lines; and Crème de la Mer, a nourishing cream, seals all that moisture and skincare in for plumper-looking skin along the face and neck.
13. Monica Vinader Linear Chain Bracelet
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This London-based jewelry brand is known for crafting delicate pieces made from responsibly sourced and recycled gold and sterling silver. Mom will love receiving the Monica Vinader Linear Chain Bracelet this holiday season—featuring a sleek curved bar you can add a complimentary engraving to. The braided, adjustable band is perfect for those who struggle with small clasps. Choose among 18k gold vermeil, sterling silver, or 18k rose gold vermeil.
14. Audo Copenhagen Plantas Planter
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Gifts for Mom that are as covetable as they are practical are always a win in my book. Audo Copenhagen Plantas Planter is available in four sizes—6.7″, 9.4″, 10.2″, and 12.5″—making it well-suited to small and large house plants. If she has a screened-in porch or covered outdoor area, they can always be used outdoors. The unglazed matte ivory stoneware has an organic surface that’s textured with undulating curves and lines. They look like they’ve been pulled from the desert, but in reality they’re made using slip casting, then the lines are added by hand. This is a wonderful gift idea for moms whose interior decor is more minimalist and Scandinavian—though these can complement practically any design sense.
15. House of Léon Face Vase
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Home decor is among the best gifts for Mom or your mother-in-law. You’ve got an extensive price range to play with and can usually get a sense for their style when you spend enough time in their home (modern, bohemian, farmhouse, etc.). Rather than focus on trends, House of Léon creates collections that imbue styles from different regions and cultures. Current collections pay homage to Provence, Ojai, and Kyoto with smaller items and decor acting as the finishing touches. I love the sculptural simplicity of the brand’s Face Vase. It’s a statement piece on its own set upon a bookshelf but I love the way it complements a coffee, side, or console table filled with flowers. Bring a bouquet of her favorite blooms—or a curated arrangement—to gift alongside the vase.
16. ‘The Origins of You: How Breaking Family Patterns Can Liberate the Way We Live & Love’ by Vienna Pharaon
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This might seem like an unorthodox Christmas gift for Mom, but bear with us. The Origins of You comes from licensed marriage and family therapist Vienna Pharaon. My friend recommended the book, as it’s been instrumental in dismantling some of the unhealthy patterns and fixtures from her own childhood. We all grow up with a specific framework, and this book helps to examine what worked and didn’t, and how we’re carrying those burdens into adulthood. Each chapter comprises client anecdotes, tips for having difficult conversations, and worksheets that encourage growth and introspection. This is especially helpful for older generations who maybe didn’t have as much open dialogue about their parents’ trauma.
17. Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag 20
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With its luxurious pebble leather and refined hardware, the popular Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag 20 effortlessly combines elegance with everyday functionality, making it a must-have accessory for any stylish mom. The multiple carrying options and spacious interior ensure she can stay organized whether she’s running errands or enjoying dinner out with friends.
18. Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noir Rose
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Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noir Rose is a stellar fragrance gift for mom, blending the allure of bergamot and tuberose with rich, velvety musk, vanilla, and suede leather for an elegant scent that suits women of any age.
19. Flowerbx Bouquet Subscription
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There’s nothing like a fresh bouquet of flowers to breathe life into any home. With its customizable delivery schedule and curated arrangements sourced directly from growers, a subscription from Flowerbx ensures your mom is greeted with premium seasonal blooms right at her doorstep. The first delivery comes with the brand’s Royal Windsor vase and pink mondial roses. Thereafter, seasonal flowers like tulips, peonies, hydrangeas, and roses will arrive. (Note: It’s just one variety.) You can determine the duration of the subscription—a 3-, 6-, or 12-month plan—and opt for weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly deliveries that will begin once you set the first delivery date. From here, Mom can pause or cancel if she’s traveling.
20. Fitbit Luxe
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With its sleek design, customizable clock faces, and vibrant AMOLED display, Fitbit Luxe is the ultimate wellness accessory for Mom. Not only does it effortlessly track heart rate, sleep patterns, and stress levels, but it also offers guided breathing sessions to help her find moments of calm amidst the holiday hustle. Spring for the Special Edition Gorjana Soft Gold Stainless Steel Parker Link Bracelet.
21. Mackage Hero-W Shearling-Lined Winter Boot
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Mackage Hero-W Shearling-Lined Winter Boot is undoubtedly the most well-worn item in my closet come winter. The midcalf lace-up boots are rated to -31 degrees Fahrenheit, thanks to a plush shearling lining and a weather-proof nylon and leather shaft. The rubber lug tread sole is waterproof and never fails to grip the ground when things get slushy and icy come winter. If Mom lives in a cold climate, I couldn’t recommend this more.
22. Hestra Sheepskin Mitt
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Holiday-colored apparel and gifts can be a bit tawdry. To stick to timeless styles that play to the season, opt for olive green and burgundy. I’ve worn Hestra gloves for years; they’ve got style and performance in spades. The Hestra Sheepskin Mitt is a gorgeous Christmas gift for Mom. It’s hand-sewn from sheepskin with the suede side facing out. She can keep the mitten rolled down to provide more coverage or roll the cuff down to reveal the wool.
23. Bowers & Wilkins Px8
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This holiday season, gift Mom peace of mind. Bowers & Wilkins’ Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones don’t cut any corners. The fit, feel, and audio experience are exceedingly luxe. Aluminum arms keep the headphones light while offering strength and longevity, while Nappa leather-covered memory foam earpads lend greater all-day comfort. I’d be remiss not to mention the diamond-cut metal detailing, which ups the glamor whether you select Royal Burgundy (shown here), Black, or Tan. She might not need to know all the nitty-gritty tech specs, just know the noise-canceling technology and high-resolution sound are sublime.
24. Tiffany Audubon Feather Square Scarf
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Silk scarves are timeless and she’s sure to cherish this Audubon Feather Square Scarf by the iconic jewelry brand. Combining artistic finesse with natural inspiration, its feather design was influenced by the vibrant hues of the Audubon Society’s illustrations. My grandma used to fashion them like a babushka (tied under the chin) to keep her hair in place, but this can be tied around Mom’s neck or the handle of her favorite handbag.
25. Philips Hue Starter Kit
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Light bulbs might not scream exciting gifts for mom, but this is the gift of ambience. The Philips Hue Starter Kit comes with the Hue Bridge, essentially the control center. Through the app, Mom can then control the four included E26 smart bulbs (75 W) via Bluetooth. If you purchase the warm-to-cool white light and color bulbs, this gives her the ability to light up any space—living room, bedroom, dining room, even the kitchen—with bespoke settings and scenes. There are millions of hues to choose from so she can set the mood for movie night or get true white light for cooking projects in the kitchen.
26. Le Creuset Mug Set
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We like to prioritize Christmas gifts for Mom that can be used year-round, like Le Creuset Mugs. This timeless four-piece set is available in a wide range of colors, from minimalist White to bold Cerise (deep red) to Shallot (pale purple, shown here). Crafted with durable stoneware, these microwave- and dishwasher-safe mugs are designed to elevate her coffee or tea experience while adding a touch of charm to her daily routine. Pro tip: If she already owns a Dutch oven or enamel skillet by Le Creuset, order the same color.
27. Parker Clay Caroline Small Tote
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Aside from Parker Clay Caroline Small Tote being a gorgeous everyday bag made of full-grain leather, each purchase provides 12 hours of empowerment to the brand’s team in Ethiopia. Founders Ian and Brittany Bentley first visited the country to adopt their daughter, but ultimately made roots in Addis Ababa to begin their company. They hire at-risk individuals in an effort to rehabilitate women who are transitioning out of trafficking (or prevent them from befalling it in the first place). The ultimate goal is to create social and economic empowerment in local communities through trade. They pay living wages and benefits, teach skills training and financial literacy, and provide career advancement. Since founding Parker Clay, the duo has partnered with an organization called Ellilta Women at Risk (EWAR), with a goal of restoring independence to women exploited by prostitution. Thus far, over 1,000 women have graduated the program, with over 90 percent being able to remain free from prostitution. Not many gifts for Mom have that kind of impact.
25 Christmas Gifts for Mom From Son
The best Christmas gifts for Mom from son side-step the headache of guessing the right size and fit in clothing. Instead, these items fall under the realm of tech, gear, and home goods.
1. Dyson Gen5detect
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Dyson is the best at sucking, if you catch our drift, and Gen5detect ($950) or Gen5outsize ($1,050) are the be-all, end-all Christmas gifts for Mom from son. These are the most powerful stick vacs—full stop. Both boast the brand’s fifth-generation Hyperdymium motor with 280 air watts of powerful suction. If your mom prioritizes cleanliness above all else, she’ll love that both machines are outfitted with a fully sealed, whole-machine HEPA filtration system that seizes 99.99 percent of particles and 99.9 percent of viruses. What’s also new from older models is the Fluffy Optic cleaner head. I live in a 1930’s Brooklyn walkup with hard wood floors that require constant cleaning. The angled beam of light illuminates twice the amount of invisible dust to the naked eye so I can identify spots I’d otherwise miss. If your mom is in a big house with many rooms, consider springing for Gen5outsize. It has all those high-tech specs but with a 150 percent bigger bin and a 25 percent wider cleaner head—oh and double the run time. Cleaning, dare I say, is no longer a chore.
2. Samsung The Frame 4K QLED TV
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If Mom doesn’t want a giant TV to be the focal point of the living room, Samsung The Frame 4K QLED TV is a great middle ground. The smart TV doesn’t detract from its purpose as a space for connection and decompression. During the day, it can showcase a sentimental family photo or a piece of art from Samsung’s extensive art library. At night, she can turn on the traditional smart TV mode to stream her favorite show or the latest movie release. It comes in seven sizes, from 32″ to 85″, but 55″ is the sweet spot, if you ask me.
Enhance your mom’s personal self-care routine with Therabody Theraface Pro (yes, from the company that makes your favorite massage gun). Not only will it help to reduce facial tension (important during the holidays), but it also delivers professional results. Skin-toning microcurrents and rejuvenating LED light therapy help reduce wrinkles and boost circulation—and she doesn’t even need to leave home.
4. Bombas Sunday Slipper
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If hygge were a shoe, it would be the Bombas Sunday Slipper. Soft, plush sherpa lines these slippers inside and out, while a memory foam and EVA midsole provides arch and heel support for long days on her feet decorating the house, whipping up a holiday meal, or kicking her heels up to let someone else do the heavy lifting. The rubber outsole is nice and grippy if she needs to step outside—but we love these as house shoes. Bonus: They’re machine-washable so she can freshen them up with ease.
5. Raen Breya
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The difference between bargain sunglasses and high-quality pairs is significant. The latter are far less apt to scratch, smudge, and are sturdier in composition. Raen Breya frames have a bold, classic look. The square shape and deep lens height give more vertical coverage to protect eyes. She’ll appreciate that the arms aren’t thin and fragile; they’re robust in thickness and feature triple-rivet, five-barrel hinges.
6. Yeti M15 Soft Cooler
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Brands that obsess over one item to make it practically perfect in every way deserve your devotion. If Yeti’s already earned that distinction, why not share the love with Yeti gifts for Mom? Yeti M15 Soft Cooler is the latest addition to the lineup and it’s perfectly suited to trips to the beach, car camping, weekend getaways, and little league games. Early iterations of Yeti’s soft coolers and backpacks were a bit tricky to load with beverages, ice, and snacks alone since you needed an extra pair of hands to keep it open, but the brand’s MagShield Access has since been optimized so the powerful magnets keep the cooler open when Mom needs access and seals closed with a gentle nudge. Moreover, the brand’s DryHide Shell is highly resistant to dings and punctures, UV rays, and mildew buildup, making it an excellent cooler for use on boats.
7. Hoka Bondi 8
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An updated pair of everyday trainers makes for excellent Christmas gifts for Mom from son, whether she’s an avid runner or just takes long walks to start her day. Hoka Bondi 8 is a stalwart in the brand’s lineup that’s recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association for being a product that promotes foot health. The model has maximum cushioning that’s packed with light, pillowy layers of foam. Hoka also re-engineered the heel’s geometry so it’s extended to create more of a buffer for heel striking. Heel pull tabs encourage easy on-and-off and a plush tongue heightens comfort for all-day wear. Opt among more than a dozen core and seasonal colors.
8. Sonos Era 300 Speaker
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Is your mom still playing music by shouting requests at an Alexa-enabled device? If so, surprise her with high-quality speakers from the Sonos Era lineup. Sonos Era 300 brings multi-channel surround sound into Mom’s living room. The unique shape is built around the acoustic architecture. When combined with a Sonos Arc or Beam (Gen 2), it blows out the cinema experience. Something to note: Unlike older models, Sonos Era 300 is held together by 93 screws. It’s a painstaking process to build and repair, but this allows Sonos to replace only the parts that need it without scrapping a speaker entirely, making it more sustainable.
9. Brightland Olive Oil Duo
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Olive oil is always in high demand in busy kitchens. Brightland Olive Oil Duo is the perfect holiday gift for Mom if she favors home-cooked meals over dining out. This set comes with two varieties, Brightland’s bold Awake oil, best suited to roasting and sauteing, and its smooth Alive EVOO, designed for drizzling on top of salads, pairing with bread, making hummus, and even baking. We’re not saying you should request olive oil cake for the holidays, but request olive oil cake for the holidays…
10. Our Place Wonder Oven
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Our Place Wonder Oven is more than just a cooking tool—it’s a six-in-one, time-saving appliance. With its innovative design, Mom can air fry, bake, roast, toast, reheat, and broil. While she won’t be making big holiday dinners with it, it can certainly help cook and re-heat side dishes or appetizers. We see it as a trusty companion for weeknight meals when she’s cooking for one or two and doesn’t feel like turning on the oven. She can roast a 4.5-lb chicken, broil salmon fillets, and make a batch of chocolate chip cookies when the grandkids come over.
11. Steamery Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer
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If Mom is all about efficiency, this hybrid steamer and iron is a brilliant gift. Steamery Cirrus 3 has an ultra-fast heat-up time of just 25 seconds. I’ve used Cirrus 2 for years. What’s different between the two is Cirrus 3’s “mouthpiece” is more like an ironing plate that heats up to the same temperature as level 1 on an iron. This makes it so she can steam and freshen up linen shirts as well as iron cotton dress shirts with greater precision. Cirrus 3 produces more steam per minute and it’s a drier steam, so clothes aren’t left damp immediately after steaming. The ironing plate also helps to dry the fabric if she’s in a rush. I also like that the new model stands up on its own, rather than resting on its side. Available in Charcoal, Sage (shown), and Sand.
12. Laura Mercier Fragrance Gift Set
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With its luxurious blend of warm vanilla and rich amber, Laura Mercier Fragrance Gift Set is designed to envelop her in a cloud of indulgent fragrance. The attractive packaging and premium quality of each product—a body oil and a full-size fragrance—ensures that every time she uses them, she’ll feel cherished during the festive season.
13. Outer Concrete Fire Pit Table
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Christmas gifts for Mom that can be used all-year round is always a win. Outer Concrete Fire Pit Table is a three-in-one tabletop, cook space, and patio heater made of glass-fiber reinforced concrete cement. It comes with ceramic spheres that aren’t just an eye-catching design element. Once fully ignited, the fire licks out from around the spheres to help block wind and keep heat centralized, radiating out instead of just up. Mom can light it to stay warm on chilly nights in the backyard or use it as a s’mores station when the grandkids come over.
14. Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima
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If Mom doesn’t entertain much any more and wants a slim, single-serve coffee machine, opt for Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima. She can make a variety of coffee- and espresso-based drinks at the touch of a button, whether it’s a velvety cappuccino or a latte. Not only does it boast a fast heat-up time and an integrated milk frother, but its versatile capsule system ensures she can enjoy an array of aromatic coffee experiences, making her mornings extra special. Go the extra mile by picking out a few sleeves of her favorite coffee flavors.
15. JUDY Emergency Preparedness Backpack
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Packed with essentials like food, water, first-aid supplies, and even a solar-powered flashlight, JUDY Emergency Preparedness Backpack ensures Mom will be ready for any unexpected situation. With its durable construction and comprehensive array of supplies, this backpack is a heartfelt way to show you care for her well-being—especially given the ramp up in natural disasters around the world. There’s even a dedicated Survival Earthquake Kit for families with seven food bars and 14 water packets to provide 72 hours of survival backup.
16. Floyd Home Sink Down Lounge Chair
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If you have the kind of parents who don’t splurge on big-ticket items for themselves, be the holiday-time hero. Floyd Home Sink Down Lounge Chair is a Christmas gift for Mom from son that will go down in gifting history. Crafted from top-quality materials and designed for ultimate relaxation, this oversized armchair offers a plush, sink-in feel that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day. The memory foam cushions are deep so she can curl up with a book. Let everyone know—this is her spot.
17. The Waves Natural Wine Bundle
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Your mom’s vino lineup for her next dinner party is immediately sorted with The Waves’ natural wine bundles. I recommend “The Perfect Dinner Party.” It comes with one bottle of sparkling, one white, and one red, lending to the perfect progression from hor d’oeuvres to dessert. Despite a classic arrangement, it might also serve as her introduction into the world of natural wines—made without chemicals so she doesn’t get any lingering headaches the next day.
18. Eparé Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin
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For the eco-conscious among us, Eparé Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin is a great affordable gift for Mom. Not only will it fit right onto her kitchen countertop, making it easy for her to dispose of food waste, it’ll also turn her trash into gardening treasure, as she can use her compost as soil fertilizer. Less kitchen waste and more nutrient-rich compost is an eco-friendly win-win.
19. Maison Balzac J’ai Soif Bedside Carafe and Glass
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Maison Balzac J’ai Soif Bedside Carafe and Glass combines French tradition with everyday functionality. The mouth-blown borosilicate glass—inspired by drinkware sets kept on bedside tables in France—marries timeless design with artisanal quality. It’s a practical gift, but also one that adds luxury to everyday routines. Choose from over 10 colors, including Mint, Indigo, and Amber (shown here).
20. Casa Posta Figuera Linen Water
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Scent is transformational. It can be invigorating or grounding, enhancing moments by turning mundane routines into mindful rituals. I love Casa Posta Figuera Linen Water for its duality. While its main purpose is to refresh linens and throw blankets, it can also be used as a room freshener. The Figuera scent is to die for—a medley of green fig, cedar wood, and pink peppercorn. This is the kind of scent that people will stop and ask, What is that?
21. Messermeister April Bloomfield Chef’s Knife
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Messermeister has a new initiative called “Forge” in which it’s collaborating with chefs on new knives, then donating up to 20 percent of the profits to each chef’s non-profit of choice. First up is April Bloomfield, who selected GreenWave—a company that trains and supports regenerative ocean farmers—as her non-profit. The Messermeister April Bloomfield Chef’s Knife is a 6.5-inch workhorse with a deep wedge shape for greater hand clearance, a high handle position to keep the weight of the knife before the grip, and a shallow rocker that lends optimal contact with a cutting board. A fuller groove near the spine gives Mom an anchor point if she likes to use a pinch grip. What’s really special are the design elements, in my opinion. The carbon-steel blade has original artwork by Bloomfield etched into it and the handle is crafted from resilient Spanish hardwood shavings stabilized with natural resin. The end result is a handle that’s far more durable than raw wood but with all the visual interest of grain.
22. Staub Enameled Cast Iron Pan
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Any culinary whiz will be thrilled to receive something from Staub. The brand’s Enameled Cast Iron Pans are venerated for their quality. Available in 10-, 11-, and 12-inch iterations, they’re kitchen workhorses that ensure even heat distribution and retention. Your Mom can make skillet cookie with the grandkids, Dutch baby pancakes for Sunday brunch, and crispy-skin salmon on weeknights. Its smooth enamel finish also makes it a stylish addition to her kitchen that she’ll want to leave on the burner top to show off in perpetuity.
23. Schott Zwiesel Pure Wine Glasses, Set of 6
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Help Mom upgrade her at-home happy hours with Schott Zwiesel Pure Wine Glasses. Crafted with Tritan crystal, they boast remarkable clarity and resilience, making them both elegant and durable for those cherished family gatherings, even when they get a little rowdy. With a set of six, these glasses are not just a gift, but an invitation to create new memories with friends and family over her preferred bottle of wine.
24. Aromatech AroMini BT
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Cold-air diffusers are a best-kept secret for creating signature scent at home. Unlike plug-ins and ultrasonics that disperse a scent by heating oil, Aromatech AroMini BT uses nebulization. The sleek cylindrical base of the AroMini BT houses a bottle of oil that screws on top of the device. The scent oils are then broken down into a superfine mist that gets released according to Mom’s preferred time schedule. In the app, she can control days of the week, time windows, and intensity depending on the size of the room and her sensitivity to scents.
25. Sur la Table Cooking Class Experience
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There’s nothing more meaningful to a mother than the gift of quality time with her son, which is exactly what she’ll receive during a Sur la Table Cooking Class Experience. You’ll both get to practice your culinary skills with a wide array of hands-on courses led by seasoned chefs, including everything from holiday baking workshops to international cuisine explorations (highly recommend learning how to make handmade ravioli). With numerous locations nationwide and an inviting, inclusive atmosphere, this gift is not just about learning new skills and recipes, but ultimately about savoring the joy of cooking together.
Pittman is partnering with Aussie Bananas to encourage us to keep moving wherever possible. And you really don’t need a pricey gym membership to do so.
“It should come as no surprise that my favourite way of keeping fit is by going for a run,” the two-time athletics world champion told 9Honey.
“Going for a jog with friends, or even just a walk to catch up with my kids after school fills your cup both socially and physically.”
Pittman also introduced us to a fitness method called “fartlek” training, which is a great way to get results in a short amount of time.
“You set aside 30 minutes and you alternate between sprinting, jogging, and walking, keeping the recovery fairly short but the heart rate high,” she explained to 9Honey.
“Sometimes we think we need hours in the gym to get in shape, but exercising outside is way more cost-effective and you can breathe in the fresh air.”
The amount of Aussies who feel like they’re not getting enough exercise is even higher than it was during the pandemic, when we were all confined to our homes. Almost a third of Aussies admit that exercise has become less of a priority than three years ago, putting it down to being time-poor or too unmotivated.
Pittman told us that she’s not immune to this feeling either – even Olympians have days where they simply can’t be bothered. “It’s all about recognising what’s achievable and setting goals for yourself,” she said.
“I’m always more inclined to want to get moving when I’m with friends and family. So many of our social connections are rooted in working out together, so I’d say that the best way to get excited about working out is by doing so with people you want to see.”
For this reason, Australian Bananas is staging the National Banana Day Virtual Relay on October 18th with Pittman.
To get involved all you have to do is grab a banana, film yourself being active, then pass the banana ‘baton’ left or right and share on social channels using #BananaDay for friends, family and followers to join in.
Participants who share their moves can go into the running to win a $1,000 EFTPOS Gift Voucher.
Around 90 per cent of Aussie households purchase bananas every year, with Pittman saying that hers is no different. In fact, bananas are her favourite pre-workout snack.
“A good snack has to be nutritious and easy – whether I’m running a 400m, lifting weights, running off to work, or just getting out and staying active with my large family, bananas are always my go-to pre-workout fuel,” she said.
“They contain the perfect number of calories but are also packed full of magnesium, folate, and vitamin B6.”
If you’re trying to strengthen your core and build your ab muscles, sit ups are a go-to exercise to add to your routine.
But once you’re used to them, the movement can get quite repetitive, and it can be hard to improve after you’ve mastered the basics.
How can you make them more difficult? Sam Wood has shared some of his tips for sit ups with 9Honey Coach to help get you started.
His very first tip – don’t give into instincts to anchor your feet.
Watch the video above for all of Sam Wood’s sit up progressions.
“The first thing you want to do [when you’re struggling with sit ups] is anchor your feet – either tuck them under the couch or have someone hold them down,” Wood says.
But he doesn’t recommend this, as all it’ll do is strengthen your hip flexors, not your abs.
If you struggle to do sit ups without your feet anchored, Wood says to start out by swinging your arms to generate momentum on your way up.
“Even if your feet lift up a little bit, that’s OK,” he says.
Progression from here is easy, it’s just about finding different movements where the same muscles have to work harder and longer.
The next step up is to do the same sit-up movement, but with your hands crossed over your chest.
Once you can do that comfortably, you can then do sit ups with your hands behind your head. “Don’t link your fingers and pull on the back of your head, though,” Wood says. “We’re not trying to wrench the neck.”
You just want to keep your elbows back and your fingertips on your temples.
“If you’ve got the hang of that and you’re looking for a further challenge, you can start to add some resistance – either a dumbbell or a weight plate,” Wood explains.
To really spice things up, he adds, you can try out some combo moves. This involves flexion through the trunk with added rotation.
If you’re looking for a full workout, try this quick 10-minute workout from Sam Wood
If you’re on social media, we’re sure you’ve seen plenty of fitness trends come and go.
One that recently took TikTok by storm was the “3-2-8 workout method,” which combines elements of strength training with barre and Pilates workouts and daily walks, with the goal of building muscle while burning fat.
But does this viral fitness trend actually work?
We asked Dr Matt Vickers, a GP at Juniper, to weigh in with his expert opinion.
The 3-2-8 method is a structured fitness routine that involves three different components: strength training, barre or Pilates, and daily walks. According to Dr Matt, it “is a great all-rounder for those with goals to improve their strength, mobility and overall fitness.”
Here’s a breakdown of each element of this workout method.
2 days of strength training per week
“The benefits of regular resistance-based training for maintaining lean muscle mass during weight loss are well understood. Additional benefits on cardiovascular, metabolic and musculoskeletal health are desirable at any stage of life,” Dr Matt explains.
Incorporating strength training into your fitness routine – be it weightlifting, resistance exercises, or bodyweight exercises – can help with:
Muscle development. It helps you build lean muscle mass, making you feel stronger and leaner.
Metabolism boost. Maintaining muscle tissue requires more calories than fat tissue. That’s why increasing muscle mass can boost your resting metabolic rate and aid in weight management.
Bone health. Resistance training is beneficial for bone density, minimising the risk of osteoporosis.
Both barre and Pilates are low-impact (but incredibly effective) workouts that focus on core strength, flexibility, and muscle toning, helping you improve your posture, balance, and overall body composition.
Core Strength. Barre and Pilates focus on the muscles that support your spine and pelvis, promoting a strong core and, in turn, stability and injury prevention..
Flexibility. These workouts help you maintain a wider range of motion in your daily activities.
Mind-body connection. Barre and Pilates encourage mindfulness and body awareness. Not only does this benefit your mental well-being but it also helps you connect with your body and improve your coordination.
8000 steps per day
“Improvements in non-exercise movements such as increasing step counts, standing more, completing daily tasks like housework and generally moving more throughout the day, all lead to important calorie expenditure known as NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis),” Dr Matt explains.
“Achieving 8000 steps per day can go a long way to helping burn more calories with relatively lower effort than dedicated exercise sessions which is a fantastic, sustainable way to approach weight loss.”
Particularly, walking every day helps with:
Cardiovascular health. It can help lower your risk of heart disease, lower your blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.
Weight management. Walking at a moderate pace can help burn calories, making it a good tool for weight management and loss (when combined with a balanced diet).
Mental well-being. Walking outdoors can boost your mood, reduce your stress levels, and enhance your mental clarity.
The effectiveness of any fitness routine depends on various factors, including individual goals, consistency, and proper execution.
“Overall, the 3-2-8 workout method is a great foundation for most people who are looking to improve their health and fitness without risking injury or who don’t feel up to a HIIT or high-intensity cardio session,” says Dr Matt.
“For those looking to improve their cardiovascular fitness and aerobic capacity or push the limits of burning calories during exercise, they might look to a more intensive program.”
