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Miscellaneous

Don Shaved Turkey 160g review with 1/2 price right now at Woolworths 

by Sports Benches

Here’s something you can buy off the shelves right now in your local Woolworths store with the ready-to-eat Don sliced ham at just 1/2 price of $3.20. It’s perfect for nearly all occasions such as pasta, salads or a sandwich/wrap for your lunch time meal including some occasional dinners & appetizers too. The best part is you can get these in any flavour you like such as English leg ham, a variety of Salamis including Mild Hungarian & Italian Style, Honey Leg Ham, English Leg Ham, Champagne Leg Ham, Double Smoked Ham and Turkey & it has up to 20 slices on it so you can eat them out for the whole week – how good!!

Don’t wait, make sure you buy one while you can right now through the end of tomorrow like I’ve got from the other day with the Turkey flavour when the Don is good who treats you good by trying out with his delicious line-up of his packaged ham!!

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Miscellaneous

Update from the editor: February 2024

by Sports Benches

Hope is all well after we started 2024 with a huge summer of sport followed by a string of game and reality tv shows coming in now such as the Australian version of Tipping Point and a revival of Deal or No Deal in a three-way battle alongside The Chase Australia to start the ratings year here. Now the scripted TV shows will at last make a long-awaited return on the air soon for a shortened 12-13 episode season following a long half-year during most of 2024 with the writers and actors’ strikes, which is relief for viewers to tune in every week that will go on through at least the end of Spring over in the US. It will be hard to say goodbye to Station 19 and The Good Doctor whose respective seasons will get their own send-off rather than being axed before we turn our attention to the next wave of pilots that would potentially be worth a series shot later this year other than High Potential being adopted from France.

Now back from my end here, I will change a bit of food content to once every weekend rather than twice a fortnight up until the start of the Australian Open Tennis a few weeks ago with a bit more than just a food post sometimes if possible as well as chucking a balance of lifestyle between fitness, tech and travel every now and then. With sports, I will still look at Rugby – which is a sport I will always love – at least once a week with Super Rugby coming back soon and the home Wallabies matches later this year despite going from bad to worse; but hoping things will eventually return to its former glory sooner rather than later. Other than Rugby, I will look at a new sport in Field Hockey, maybe a bit more Soccer and whichever other sports that may be interesting – you never know.

And there’s always a bit of NASCAR to look forward to, especially with Shane Van Gisbergen competing full-time now in the Xfinity Series; Plus, it’s a huge Olympic year including swimming as well ahead of the next Summer games in late July-early August in Paris, France. All in all, hope is all well on what is going to be a huge 2024.

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Miscellaneous

Vege Vegan Prawn Crackers Sea Salt 75g Snack Review

by Sports Benches

Yesterday, I found out something interesting at my local Coles store where I fortunate to buy the last packet of the brand new Vegan Prawn Crackers Sea Salt flavour from Vege Chips. Unlike the prawn chips out there that has a bit of prawn meat & Crustacea, they are indeed dairy-free and egg free and it was so good to eat once I opened the packaging myself during my midday snack treat at home. I couldn’t believe they have these having last tasted prawn chips a long time ago but now I can enjoy tasting them again in a different way that suits one’s dietary requirements/limitations thanks to Vege Chips.

Although I’m aware that Vege also released their new fusions Asian crisps range (one in Corn & the other in Vege), but don’t think this is for me since it has onion and some chillies & spices on it. I can’t wait to buy them again next time whenever possible including the BBQ pack which also suits me well likewise with their usual chips range every now & then. Make sure you try it for yourself if you’re able to find one at your local Coles supermarket store at a special price right now of $3.15.

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MiscellaneousOther Sports

Travelodge Hotel Melbourne Docklands Accomodation Review

by Sports Benches

It’s Australian Open week at Melbourne Park ahead of the first day’s of play this Sunday & here’s a hotel that you can stay over the next 15 days of play within the CBD which is the Travelodge Hotel in the Docklands area. They are located at Aurora Lane where it’s not far & super easy to catch a train or bus ride anywhere across the heartlands of Melbourne from Southern Cross Station to Jolimont Station or 7B via Tram where you’re able to make your way to watch the best Tennis players on show at the Melbourne Park Tennis Courts. Plus, the hotel is adjacent to the Channel 9 local studios there for their News & selected programs & it only takes a short work to get to Marvel Stadium if you’re an Aussie Rules Football fan.

Inside the hotel, there’s a lounge at the ground floor/reception area that is open 24/7. There’s also free Wi-Fi, a TV & a small kitchenette that only involves a bar fridge, microwave & kettle. If you want to eat out at your room within the hotel, they have breakfast and room service otherwise it’s best to bring a portable pot stove with you if you wish to eat healthy or you’re on a diet while you’re away. The check in time is 3pm and check out time is 11am as you can see all the best prices that suit you and/or your family here via Google or on the Travelodge website here.

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Miscellaneous

Sunity Herbal Jelly Red Bean and Coconut Milk Review

by Sports Benches

Here’s a sweet dessert you can have on the go or at home in none other than having red beans on it with Herbal Jelly from Sunity. Now it doesn’t have the liquid on the cup unlike most other herbal jelly products that you find at an Asian convenience store but what it comes up in order to have a brilliant taste is that you got a packet of coconut cream and honey as well as a mini plastic spoon When I tasted it, it wasn’t bad at 7 out of 10. Although I substituted honey with maple syrup which is my preferred way of tasting, but I do prefer eating the normal herbal jelly with the liquid on it – nothing else. As said, you can see it for yourself at an Asian supermarket near you which would be perfect for a morning or afternoon treat.

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Miscellaneous

Plantasy Foods Dairy-Free Instant Mashed Potatoes Mix & Massel Gravy Mix Review

by Sports Benches

Here’s a healthy dinner/lunch meal that you can eat in just a couple of minutes at home in none other than the instant mashed potatoes mix that is dairy free & gluten free from Plantasy Foods. All you have to do is add some water onto the saucepan, then turn the stove on low-medium heat for a few minutes. Once the water has been boiled, you can add 1/3 cup of mix as well as some salt, oil and rice milk by simmering it for a while you before you turn the heat off & here goes your dairy free mashed potatoes that is now ready to eat!! So easy!! You can also add rosemary or parsley seasoning on top if you like!!

For a better dairy-free or vegan roast dish, a Massel rich gravy style mix would be a great compliment to add the saucing in as they also tick all the boxes. Plus, you can add some steamed vegetables there too like peas and corn. When it comes to the meats, you can have pork, pork belly, turkey, ham or chicken in there or if you’re vegan then you can have plant-based meat or brisket too! But wait there’s more as this dairy-free mashed potatoes mix can also be a great side dish with the Massel gravy on it alongside chips as if I’m recreating one from KFC myself, which does contain milk from the restaurant itself.

So there you have it, the only way to buy these products is online which will take a few days for delivery such as eBay or if you’re lucky then some IGA supermarket stores should have them in stock.

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Miscellaneous

Homemade dairy & egg free with vegan egg corn fritters you can make at home

by Sports Benches

I found an amazing way that you can enjoy eating corn fritters that is not only dairy free but also egg free with the replacement of the vegan scrambled egg mix at home.

All you have to do is grab your small bowl out by adding some salt alongside a tablespoon of the vegan egg mix, two tablespoons or flour & 2-3 tablespoons of creamed corn or corn purée by mixing them up for 1-2 minutes.

Then coat some oil on a pan with low-medium heat by splitting a few pieces there by using a silicone spatula. Wait 2 minutes first before you turn the other side with a wooden spatula by letting it cook the other side for the other two minutes before it’s all golden brown & ready to eat!! It’s not just so easy to make but also delicious too that is great for snacks alongside some tomato sauce as well as those who seek a meat free/vegan diet.

See it for yourself when you can try your very own dairy free and egg free corn fritters at home!!

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Miscellaneous

Homemade tater tots/potato gems that you can make on the air fryer at home

by Sports Benches

Here’s some homemade tater tots/potato gems that you can make & enjoy to eat at home! First of all, grab 1-2 potatoes or one large size potato by peeling the skin off before you grate them until it’s all been shredded.

Then squeeze the excess water and starch out with a cloth/paper towel onto the sink and transfer these shredded potatoes into a bowl along with some flour & a few sprinkles of salt. Mix them up as you can your hands to split and shape these into a bunch of tiny potato balls before you rest these tater tots in the fridge or freezer for about an hour. Now it’s time to throw a bunch of tater tots that you’ve made from scratch onto the air fryer & make sure you cook them first at 190 degrees for 10 mins before you toss them to the other side & have it cooked again for another 5-6 mins. And once these tater tots have been cooled down for a while (like after 5-10 mins), these excellent tiny potato balls are ready to eat! Yum!!

They’re even a fantastic match as a side dish with the homemade pizza I’ve made for lunch yesterday alongside the tomato and avocado topping & also the homemade pizza sauce inside it with a mix of both tomato paste & tomato sauce!

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Miscellaneous

UNDERSTANDING FOOT ANATOMY AND FUNCTION: YOUR ROADMAP TO STRONGER, HEALTHIER FEET

by Admin

Our feet, the unsung heroes of daily mobility, deserve more than just appreciation—they deserve intentional care and strengthening. In this guide, we won’t just explore the intricacies of foot anatomy and function; we’ll also equip you with practical insights on incorporating foot-specific exercises into your routine and choosing the right equipment for a resilient foundation.

Getting Friendly with Your Feet’s Blueprint

Picture this: your feet are a powerhouse of bones, joints, muscles, and tendons, all working together like a well-choreographed dance. From your toes doing a jig to your heel playing the strong, silent type, each part has a role. So, let’s dive into the real deal—how to make them even more awesome.

  • Forefoot Fun: Do a little toe-tapping. Seriously, just sit down and tap those toes for a couple of minutes. It’s like a mini party for your feet and boosts flexibility.
  • Midfoot Mojo: Roll a tennis ball under your foot. Press down a bit and roll from heel to toe. It’s like giving your midfoot a well-deserved massage and helps with stability.
  • Heel Heroics: Try some heel raises. Stand up, lift those heels, hold for a beat, and then gently lower them. It’s a killer move for the calves and Achilles.

Let’s Get Moving: Super Practical Exercises

Enough with the theory, let’s do this:

  • Toe-Tapping Drill: Sit comfy, tap those toes for 1-2 minutes. It boosts circulation and keeps things flexible.
  • Towel Scrunches: Toss a towel on the floor, scrunch it towards you with your toes. It’s like a mini workout for your arch.
  • Calf Raises: Stand up, go tiptoe, hold, and then back down. Repeat for 3 sets of 15. Your calves will thank you.

Gear Up with the Right Stuff

Time to bring in the reinforcements—gear that’ll make your feet unstoppable:

  • Resistance Bands: Wrap them around your toes and flex against the resistance. It’s like a mini gym for your feet.
  • Exercise Ball: Great for balance and stability. Try standing on one foot while rolling the ball. It’s a challenge, but your feet are up for it.
  • Balance Board: This guy’s a game-changer for stability. Stand on it while doing basic moves to work your entire foot.

The Real Deal on Your Feet’s VIP Squad

Picture your feet as the ultimate VIP squad—bones, joints, muscles, and tendons throwing the best party. We’re not here to bore you with science lectures, but let’s break it down like we’re chatting over a cup of coffee.

  • Toe Bash: Kick back, relax, and tap those toes like they’re on a dance floor. A mini toe party to amp up flexibility.
  • Midfoot Magic: Roll a tennis ball under your foot – it’s like giving your midfoot a spa day. Press, roll, and let the good vibes flow.
  • Heel Hustle: Time for some heel raises – stand up, go tiptoe, hold, and back down. Your calves and Achilles are about to become rockstars.

By doing these exercises and throwing in the right gear, you’re not just pampering your feet—you’re giving them a power-up. Say hello to better balance, stability, and an all-around upgrade for your daily adventures. This guide is your no-nonsense buddy on the journey to feet that can take on anything. So, let’s get those feet flexing and tapping, and make every step count!

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Miscellaneous

3 Simple Workouts to Correct Your Body’s Balance

by Admin

Photo by form PxHere

Do you ever feel like your body isn’t quite balanced, right? Whether you’re constantly tripping over your own two feet or just can’t seem to get the form down for certain exercises, poor body balance can throw you off.

The good news is that it’s fixable with a few simple workouts. In just 10 or 15 minutes a day, 3 days a week, you can strengthen your core, improve your posture, and get your body back to equilibrium. These balance-correcting moves use body weight alone, so no fancy gym equipment is required. Ready to stop feeling off-kilter and start moving with confidence again? Here are three simple workouts that will get your body balanced in no time.

Understanding Body Imbalances and How They Develop

Our bodies are designed to move with balance and coordination, but over time imbalances develop from repetitive movements, injury, or a lack of strength in certain areas. These imbalances then become our default positioning, causing pain, impaired mobility, and difficulty performing certain activities.

The good news is that it only takes a few basic exercises to start correcting these imbalances and restore proper balance and alignment. For example, if you find yourself constantly leaning to one side or collapsing in one hip when throwing a ball or lifting heavy objects, it likely means the muscles on one side of your core are weaker or tighter than the other.

Image Reference: A and A Photography via Flickr

To fix this:

• Do planks: Holding yourself in a plank position works your entire core. Start by holding for 30–60 seconds and building up.

• Do side planks: support yourself on one elbow and the side of one foot, lift your hips off the floor, and hold. Repeat on the other side. This works the muscles on one side of your core at a time.

• Do bridges: Lying on your back with knees bent and arms at your sides, lift your hips while squeezing your glutes and core. Hold briefly, then lower back down. Repeat for 2-3 sets of 10-15 reps.

By focusing on these few simple exercises a couple of times a week, you can build strength and flexibility where you need them most. Be patient and consistent, as it can take 4-6 weeks of regular practice to correct long-held imbalances. But sticking with it will get your body back to balanced, pain-free movement in no time.

Photo by Mejaguar via PickPik

Correcting Imbalances with Targeted Stability Exercises

Have you ever noticed how some people just seem naturally balanced and coordinated, while others (maybe you) struggle with balance and posture? The good news is that you can correct imbalances and improve your stability with targeted exercises.

Core Stabilization

Your core muscles support your spine and midsection, so strengthening them is key. Planks, bridges, and boat poses are great for this. Start by holding each for 30–60 seconds and building up. These exercises will strengthen your deep core muscles.

Single-Leg Balances

Standing on one leg challenges your body’s stability in a major way. Try standing on one leg with the other foot slightly off the floor, holding a wall or chair for support if needed. Aim for 30–60 seconds on each side. These help strengthen stabilizing muscles in your hips, glutes, and ankles.

Resistance band exercises

Resistance bands add an extra challenge for balance and stability. Try seated band walks (slide feet out to sides and back in), band kickbacks (extend one leg behind you using the band), or band walks (step sideways with the band around your ankles). Start with 2 sets of 10–15 reps each. These exercises strengthen your glutes and hip muscles, which are key for balance and stability.

With practice of these targeted exercises a few times a week, you’ll be well on your way to improved balance, stability, and posture. Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight will also help keep your body balanced and supported. Now get to work; your core and stabilizing muscles will thank you!

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