The Men Who

There has never been a more important time to actively maintain positive mental wellbeing. With the world around us changing in rapid and uncertain ways, and expectations to respond appropriately at any given moment, it can sometimes feel like life is getting away from you. And, as men, we are less likely to talk about how this makes us feel. The Men Who: exists to provide men across Edinburgh with a regular opportunity to express these thoughts and feelings. As part of a likeminded community that is free from judgement or agenda, men in our circle are free to share what’s on their mind when they need to share it. We talk and listen in a secure, dynamic and positive environment. This means that everything is shared in the spirit of mutual confidence, and remains at all times within the safety of our space.

If you or somebody you know would benefit from participating in The Men Who:, reach out to us today on Instagram @themenwho_ or contact John on 07803 363 879.

A Home Gym In 2020 By Tracy Griffen

Twelve years ago I wrote a piece for the Spotlight on how to set up your own home gym. Regular readers with very good memories may remember the article. Fear not if you’ve forgotten, as my Home Gym 2020 hitlist is similar. In other words, fads come and go, but you only need a few pieces of inexpensive equipment to exercise from the comfort of your home: 1.Heart Rate Monitor (HRM) – Useful for making cardio (pulse-raising) exercise measureable. It’s an advantage that gyms used to have over home exercise, as HRM’s used to be mega-pricey. You can now get an entry level HRM with chest strap for around £30.

2.Trainers – Your shoes should reflect what you want to do. Many people feel they need to buy fancy trainers to start, but as long as shoes are comfortable with adequate cushioning, you’re fine. You can exercise at home barefoot. 3.Music – Create a playlist of your favourite tunes, to inspire and motivate. Or dig out a CD you’ve not listened to for awhile – It’s been proven steady beat can help you work harder, and for longer. 4.Resistance Tubes / Bands – Super portable, rubber resistance is making a comeback: lightweight and versatile, a Pilates band or resistance tube can add variety to your workout. 5.Skipping Rope – A cheap piece of kit which will get your heart rate up, anywhere, anytime. 6.Exercise Ball – Dependent on space you have available, an exercise (Swiss) ball is very good for ‘core’ exercises and is brilliant to sit on when working from home. Be sure to buy ‘antiburst’ as cheap balls are horrible and difficult to control (and can also burst). 7.A Reebok Step – You don’t need to be an aerobics whizz to benefit from using a step. It’s an easy way to get your heart rate up indoors, and it also doubles as a weights bench.

8.Exercise Mat – Hard floors need cushioning, and a mat also sets up a designated exercise area.

9.‘Get Fit and Enjoy It’ Book – My book on how to get fit from home is released next month. Check out next month’s column on how to get yours!

Personal Trainer Tracy Griffen offers home visits and webcam workouts to show you how to exercise from home, using whatever equipment you have already. See adjacent advert.