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  1. Free or Lost-Cost Exercise Options (That Don’t Require an Expensive Gym Membership!)

    May 13, 2013 by admin

    Want some frugal exercise options for people on a budget? Here are some tips to keep your waistline as slim as your wallet …
    budget exercise
    1. Go for a run. This may sound obvious, but it truly is a fantastic way to get a great cardio workout for free. The best part is you can do it virtually anywhere. Of course, it may take some time to work up to running five miles, so start out slow and work your way there.

    2. Dance Dance Revolution. New interactive video game consoles like the wii and xbox kinect allow you to work out while playing a game. Dance Dance revolution is reasonably priced and is an excellent work out choice for those who love to play video games.

    3. Get a fitness ball. These handy exercise tools can be especially helpful for those that work from home. Instead of sitting in a chair at your desk use the fitness ball and incorporate various exercises to help you lose weight.

    4. Do pushups. This exercise is one almost everyone knows how to do, and you certainly don’t require a gym membership to do them. All you need is a flat surface and some upper arm strength and viola, you have a cheap way to exercise.

    5. Go for a swim. Whether you live near the ocean, lake or a friend has a backyard pool, don’t hesitate to go for a daily or weekly swim. It gives your joints a break from any hard physical exercise you may be doing and allows you to strengthen your muscles.

    6. DIY weights. Use heavy items around your house or create your own weights like milk jugs filled with water, to gain muscle strength. Get creative you can lift cinderblocks if they are available. Just remember to lift with your legs.

    7. Play tennis. Most cities have a local tennis court that you can play at for free. Grab a buddy and the both of you can get exercise. Just keep the pace lively and you will have fun and burn some calories for free!

    8.  Look up workout videos on YouTube. YouTube is virtually full of any information you could possibly want, and personal trainers often use the site to advertise their own workout plans. Check it out and follow the steps closely.

    9. Buy a jump rope. Yes this may remind you of your dreadful grade school years, but jumping rope is an excellent way to get the heart pumping. The best part is it only sets you back a few bucks a Wal-Mart to get the tools you need. Just be careful and jump in a spacious area so you don’t hurt anyone or break anything.

    10. Go Climbing. Whether you do it indoor or outdoor, climbing is a great workout for upper arm and core strength. You only have to purchase a few bare necessities that get you up and running. It also provides an awesome adrenaline rush!

     

    Photo credit: Flickr, photographer Elvert Barnes

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  2. 4 Tips for Avoiding Injuries at the Gym

    May 10, 2013 by admin

    Gyms are there to help people live healthier lives, but they have the potential to do as much harm as good if you’re not careful. Heavy weights can be dangerous if not handled properly. A slip or even just incorrect technique can result in sprains, muscle injuries or even acquired brain injuries if weights were to impact with the skull. Here are some tips on how to stay safe at the gym.

    Spotting

    Finding someone to spot you is a good idea for any weightlifter, but especially if you’re new to weights or looking to increase your load. To make gains, you want to be pushing yourself and it’s when you’re pushing yourself that accidents are most likely to happen.

    Having someone there to spot you allows you to lift more than would normally be considered safe, so you need someone who is used to lifting and knows what they’re doing. They need to recognize when you might be in trouble and know when to intervene.

    While spotting usually relies on the placebo effect, a spotter might provide a little assistance with each lift. You need to be sure of how much assistance your spotter is providing you with before you consider yourself comfortable with a new load.

    Correct technique

    Poor lifting techniques are probably the most common problem in the gym. It can go from ‘cheating’, where poor form is going to mean fewer gains, up to serious injury, especially if you are lifting heavy loads. Slipups can lead to anything from muscle tweaks to full tears and even head injuries.

    The best way to avoid poor form and technique is to seek advice from an experienced weightlifter or, better yet, a professional. You should also make sure you have a full and professional induction to your gym so you know how to use all equipment properly and safely.

    Tidying away and cleaning gym equipment

    Leaving gym equipment out is a sure fire way of injuring not only you, but potentially your fellow gym members as well. This is why it’s so important to ensure areas are tidy and safe, both while you are using them and after you’ve left. It’s so easy to hook your foot under dumbbells that they almost seem like they were designed with tripping in mind.

    The worst possible thing you could do is to step into a discarded dumbbell while attempting a lift. Falling under a bar or set of dumbbells can lead to any number of injuries. You should also clean sweat and moisture off equipment to prevent slips, which can be just as dangerous. Of course, this doesn’t just fall on you. Gyms should be run with safety in mind and staff should make sure that the gym area is as clear as possible.

    Overexertion

    It’s only natural that you want to push yourself and get the best workout possible from your gym sessions, but you don’t want to overexert yourself. A sudden rush of blood to the head after a heavy lift can cause you to feel faint or even pass out in extreme cases. The last thing you want to do is collapse in the gym where you’re surrounded by hard metal racks and equipment, not to mention the bar you’re probably holding over your head.

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  3. 4 Reasons to Go Abroad for Cosmetic Dentistry

    May 9, 2013 by admin

    Deciding to go abroad for cosmetic dentistry is no small undertaking. There are a number of factors to weigh up before you decide to move forward, but the potential benefits are legion.

    If you’re tempted but a little unsure, this list of the top 4 reasons to go abroad for cosmetic dentistry will hopefully help with your decision-making process.

    Affordability

    Cosmetic dentistry in the form of implants, whitening, veneers and porcelain crowns, can be an expensive affair, costing several thousands of pounds, if you undergo treatment in the United Kingdom.

    Poland, Hungary, and Croatia are some of the most popular European destinations for cosmetic dentistry, with dental patients purported to make an average cost saving of 50-70 per cent, relative to the cost of undergoing the same procedure in the US or UK.

    On a purely affordable level, therefore, opting for cosmetic dental treatment abroad is a financially savvy choice.

    Convenience

    For those waiting for cosmetic surgery on the NHS who are unable to access private treatment because of the financial implications, a couple of hundred pounds could see you get the treatment you need in record time. The convenience of using a foreign dentist and the positive impact that fixing your teeth could have on your self esteem could mean it’s totally worth it to fork out this relatively small amount of money.

    High Standards

    You would be forgiven for thinking that traveling to another country for cheap dental work would lead to some compromise in terms of quality of service or aftercare.

    This, however, is a misconception: many of the most reputable clinics abroad employ UK consultants to review their services as a means of assuring their prospective customers that they provide only the highest quality of service. A number of European clinics are also affiliated with organizations such as the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry – another quality indicator.

    First-time patients of overseas cosmetic dentistry clinics are often surprised to find that the quality of service surpasses that of many UK clinics.

    While there are a number of reported cases of clinical negligence each year related to overseas cosmetic dentistry, many of the most highly sought-after clinics have fewer reported annual cases than their UK counterparts.

    Vacation

    The final reason why you should consider electing to have cosmetic dental surgery abroad is that it provides you with a great excuse for a short holiday.

    With many of the most popular cosmetic dentistry clinics located in intriguing cities, like Budapest, getting your teeth done can merely be a one-day commitment on an otherwise relaxing week away.

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  4. Battle of the Sexes – Money Management

    May 6, 2013 by admin

    Check out this interesting infographic that shows you how men vs. women stack up when it comes to financial decision-making …

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  5. What is Bronzer? A Step-by-Step Tutorial

    May 6, 2013 by admin

    Bronzer only takes a moment to apply and results in beautiful, glowing skin. If you want that sun-kissed look, without damage from the sun, bronzer will get you there. Applying bronzer doesn’t mean caking on thick make-up Jersey Shore style. Instead, it’s lightly swept across the skin for an all-natural look. If you want radiant tan skin, without the dangers of the sun, this step-by-step guide will have you looking radiant.

    What is bronzer?

    Bronzer is a common name for sunless tanning and cosmetic foundation that’s meant to give your face a natural glow. Unlike tanning solutions, bronzer isn’t long-lasting. Instead, bronzer is simply something that you apply and then wash off at the end of the day.

    Powder Bronzers

    Powder bronzers are perfect if your skin is normal to oily. Powder bronzers are typically lightweight and offer an abundance of coverage. To apply powder bronzers, you’ll want a soft brush, like a HD Kabuki Brush, and some actual blush in an appropriate shade.

    Step 1: Open your bronzer, lightly swiping your blush brush against it. The first time you apply bronzer you’ll want to use less. Your first time use is a trial, to determine how much you actually need. If it’s not enough, add a little more and remember to be more liberal next time.

    Step 2: Nars Makeup artist, A.J. Fresquez, suggests creating the shape of a number three across each side of your face. The top of the three should fall against your forehead, while the middle and bottom should extend to your cheeks and jawline.

    Step 3: Blend with your favorite blush. Highlight around the bronzer, ensuring that your color is rich and blended.

    Liquid Bronzer

    Liquid bronzers are sold in tubes and bottles. These bronzers are more likely to go unnoticed, especially when paired with the right foundation. The great thing about liquid bronzer is it’s not just for the face. You can use this bronzer all over your body for a healthy-looking temporary tan.

    If you’re heading into summer concerned about body image, this may also be a great time to add some exercise to your routine. Why bronze just your face, when you have a beautiful body to show off too? Buy crestor to help lower cholesterol and also work out at the gym. You’ll be a bronzed (and fit) goddess in no time.

    Step 1: It’s important to moisturize before using liquid bronzer. An all-over moisturizer is a great choice. Simply smooth this lotion over skin wherever you’re planning on applying your bronzer.

    Step 2: Using your fingers, gently apply the bronzer. Dot along your temples, neck, hairline, and anywhere else you want to apply. Gently smooth dots for an even blend.

    Stick Bronzers

    Stick bronzers can be difficult. If you’re brave pick up one of these unique bronzers for a very professional, photo-ready look. Stick bronzers are used to highlight certain areas. Use them around your cheekbones to really accentuate this area.

    Step 1: Although stick bronzers come in an applicable stick, you won’t actually want to apply the stick directly to your face. Instead, use a makeup sponge or your fingers to gently take on the bronzer.

    Step 2: Using your fingers or the sponge, gently blend the bronzer into your skin.

    Step 3: Apply a matching blush or powder bronzer to finish the look.

    The best way to answer the question, “what is bronzer,” is to try it. Bronzer is simply a great way to highlight skin and look like your makeup was professionally applied. Look for a bronzer that’s two or three times darker than your current skin or foundation color.

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  6. 4 Vital Steps to Take After a Road Accident

    May 1, 2013 by admin

    According to the Department for Transport, at the end of 2012 there were 34.5 million vehicles licensed for use on the roads in Great Britain. With over one vehicle for every two people in the country, it is clear to see we are a population wholly dependent on our cars for the daily commute, shopping or other social purposes.

    However, an inevitable consequence of so many road users is a rise in accidents. The most recent report from the UK government showed that in the year ending September 2012, there were a total of 197,730 casualties from 146,980 accidents. While this number was lower than the previous year, it is still a worrying statistic.

    If you are involved in a road accident, it is necessary to take certain steps immediately afterwards or as soon as possible. This will protect you against false claims and damaging consequences.

    Contact the authorities

    Some accidents may be just a minor bump or scrape, so therefore contacting the police may not be necessary. However, if it is a serious incident, it is essential you phone the emergency services.

    Time is a crucial factor if somebody is injured in an accident and just a few minutes could mean the difference between life and death. Traffic police, paramedics and the fire service will have witnessed many such accidents and will know exactly what to do.

    Exchange details

    If another party is involved, it is vital to exchange name and contact details. Try and collect as many details as possible including a mobile phone number and even an email address.

    Nearly all drivers will have appropriate insurance and it is important to gather these details as well. However some drivers disobey the law and forgo this legal requirement. In this situation, you may still be able to claim some sort of compensation, but it is crucial to have the correct contact details.

    Report what happened

    Based purely on fact, write a statement of what happened. Being involved in an accident can be a shock to the system, but you must still record an accurate report immediately afterwards.

    Photographs and possible witness statements can back up the written word. It is also beneficial to get the names and contact details of witnesses because they may be needed at a later date.

    Under no circumstances should you apologise or accept responsibility, as this may not be the correct statement to make and could damage any insurance claim.

    Contact your insurance company

    With all the details about the accident, get in touch with your insurance company to discover what happens next. They will deal with all manner of cases on a daily basis.

    You may even want to contact your legal representative in more serious circumstances. A qualified medical lawyer or a brain injury solicitor will increase your chances of receiving compensation.

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  7. 5 Ways to Save Money on Summer Fashion

    April 29, 2013 by admin

    Summertime clothes are my favorite style — I love sundresses and sandals –  but it’s easy to spend too much money. Here are five ways to save money on clothes that you love to wear during the hottest months of the year.

    #1 Buy what you need … not what you want.

    One of the most difficult things to do while shopping is to only buy what you need instead of what you want. Going to the mall or your favorite store can be exciting and is an emotional experience. It is easy to go into a store see a cute pair of shoes and bam! You’re caught trying to decide between the new swimsuit you needed to get, and the hottest pair of winter boots you’ve ever seen. But if you stay focused and deliberately head to the swimsuit section first, you can avoid this type of dilemma. This will help you save money and help you get what you need for your wardrobe.

    #2 Buy out of season.

    This is one of the most obvious but rarely used ways to save money on fashion. In season clothing always run high compared to out of season clothing, for understandable reasons. One of the best times to go shopping for out of season clothing is at the beginning of a new season. Most stores mark down clothing up to as much as 80% off the original price, so the best time to shop for summer fashions is immediately following the season.

    #3 Shop online.

    Shopping online for clothes may feel like you are missing some of the fun, but if you can save money doing so why not go for it? In fact, many retail stores offer better discounts and sales online, often including free shipping, because of competition. Stores like Forever21 offer coupon codes for orders placed online, so this saves you even more money. Signing up to stores email lists also saves you money and keeps you organized as the store notifies you when sales are going on. Summer fashion is relatively easy to find online as it doesn’t require a lot of trying on for the most part.

    #4 Go shopping during the week.

    Sounds silly right? I mean what’s the difference between a Thursday and a Saturday? Well a lot, actually. Stores often offer discounts on clothing during the week to clear out some of their inventory, and by Thursday they start rotating their weekend sales items to the front of shelves. If you go shopping on a Thursday you will not only get the discounts from the week, but also get first dibs on new sales items just being set out. Another perk to buying during the week is the limited crowds and better access to sales people equaling better service!

    #5 Get organized.

    a list of what you are hoping to buy and how much you are willing to spend. Make sure your budget is realistic, and stick to it. If you find yourself wandering aimlessly through the mall window shopping, stop yourself and refocus on the task at hand. This really will help you to save money on the fashions you want, since you won’t be distracted and fail to spot the best sales. It also helps to prepare in advance for the items you know are on sale and the stores that have major clearance selections. This works on any type of fashion, but summer fashions are the most heavily rotated and are the best for the strategies listed here.

     

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  8. Ombre Hair — Is It Worth the Money?

    April 26, 2013 by admin

    Ombre Hair
    I’ve written a lot about ombre hair (and I’ve written a lot about being on a budget!), so I just wanted to roundup a few of my articles that ask whether or not it’s worth the money and effort to get ombre highlights –

    What Do You Think of Ombre Hair?

    Is it a cringe-worthy fad or the coolest thing ever?

    Is Ombre Hair Worth the Price?

    You’ve got a strict budget for your hairstyles. Do you want to spend it on ombre?

    How to Dye Ombre Hair Yourself 

    If you decide you want ombre without the high prices.

    Celebrities with Ombre Hair

    Because sometimes you just like looking at celebrity hairstyles.

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  9. Getting Outside and Getting Active

    April 24, 2013 by admin

    It doesn’t matter how many resolutions you make about getting outside and getting active, sometimes we all need a push to make this life-changing adjustment.

    Whether you’ve never really been into exercise, or if you’ve just gotten out of the habit of being active, here are a couple of easy steps that will help you on your personal journey to improve your overall health and wellbeing.

    Remove Temptation

    If you’re struggling to get outside and get active, one of the biggest obstacles is that you will simply find other things that you would rather do. With a house filled with distractions, often taking the form of games consoles and DVDs, removing temptation is the critical first step in overcoming your laziness.

    Consider selling your unwanted games, CDs, and DVDs on a website like Music Magpie; removing potential distractions in your home will certainly help to motivate you to get out and about in the early stages, even if it’s just due to boredom at first.

    The extra money that you have from selling your unwanted goods can also come in handy for things like gym membership. 

    Get a Personal Trainer

    Joining a gym is one thing, but actually regularly attending the gym is quite another. If the financial implications of signing up for a monthly gym membership are not enough of a motivator to maintain your commitment, consider hiring a personal trainer.

    Hiring a personal trainer is a great way to stay motivated, especially if you’re new to exercise and aren’t quite sure what you should be doing. Personal trainers are specialists in keeping clients motivated and once you’ve breached the 30 day mark, you’ll find that you may not need him or her anymore, as exercise becomes a habitual and integral part of your life.

    Join a Training Group

    Joining a training group is an excellent way to get in shape, while also making some new friends along the way.

    One of the most cited excuses for not sticking with a training program is boredom, but while training groups are not designed to be an easy option, they are very committed to keeping things interesting, with an emphasis on getting fit through play rather than the repetition of boring exercises.

    Outfits such as British Military Fitness operate all over the country and have programs to suit a wide range of fitness levels. While the sessions are designed to be tough, they are also a lot of fun. 

    Play Team Sports

    Joining a sports team is possibly the most effective means of making a commitment to getting outside and getting active. Paying subscriptions, training with the team and playing weekly games help greatly to ensure that you remain dedicated, long after the initial enthusiasm wears off.

    Finding a great, local club, for almost any sport, is extremely easy; and once you have made some new friends, letting your teammates down is the last thing that you’ll feel like doing. 

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  10. 6 Ways to Save on Summertime Skin Care

    April 22, 2013 by admin

    Your skin needs protection in the summertime. Unfortunately, sunscreens and lotions are expensive. Here are 6 ways to save on summertime skin care.

    Use waterproof sunscreen. It is important to reapply sunscreen no matter what. But waterproof sunscreen is immune to sweat and water which means it will stay on your skin longer, allowing you to reapply less often, leaving you with more sunscreen in the bottle. You won’t go through bottles so fast which means not having to spend on replacements.

    Do not pay more for a higher SPF. As long as you are using a sunscreen with SPF 30, you are giving your skin sufficient protection from the sun. If you use an SPF any higher than 30, you are paying for a negligible increase in protection.

    Buy sunscreens with zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is the most effective ingredient for protection against sunburn. Look for products that include it in their ingredients.

    Go for the less expensive sunglasses. When buying sunglasses, the only important thing to pay attention to with regard to actual sun damage is the UV protection. Paying more for sunglasses is paying for the brand, not a stronger defense against the sun. As long as the label says that the lenses protect against 99% or 100% of UV rays, your eyes are safe.

    Use natural options and home remedies.  There are many treatments for summer skin that can be found around the house.

    - Cucumber juice and tomato juice have vitamin A which controls oils.

    - A combination of granulated sugar and water makes a natural exfoliator.

    - Honey is a common ingredient in home sun damage solutions because of the potassium. Humidity can lead to breakouts, which can be treated by a homemade mask of honey, plain yogurt, and lemon juice. Honey can also be effective in treating sunburns because it is antibacterial and helps the skin grow new epithelial cells.

    - There are many similar home remedies for sunburns. Shaving cream includes cooling ingredients like menthol, which supposedly evaporate and take the heat with it. A vinegar bath cools and soothes a sunburn. Baking soda actually treats sunburns because it has antiseptic properties. Chilled oat meal relieves sunburn pain as oat extract has anti-inflammatory properties.

    Protect. Naturally, the more preventative measures you take, the less you’ll have to spend later on repairing treatments for sun damage, like expensive aloe vera products for sunburn. In the summer heat, exfoliating and hydrating are extremely important for healthy skin.  Also, stay in the shade—it’s free!

     

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