Latest news with #FitnessFirst
Cosmopolitan
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cosmopolitan
11 sport shorts and summer shoe outfit ideas to nail the cool girl and celebrity-approved athleisure trend
It's official, everyone is wearing sports shorts right now. Even if they're not heading to the gym. Actually, make that *especially* if they're not heading to the gym, by pairing the athletic staple with broderie anglaise blouses, oversized tailored blazers and footwear far from appropriate for tackling a treadmill. So even if you've never stepped foot inside a Fitness First, there's no reason to rule this trend out as not for you. Or for me! I've always identified more as Posh Spice, with my football-playing, tomboy sister taking up the mantle of Mel C's Sporty persona, but this didn't stop me from envying the striped Adidas shorts she wore with a laid-back ease while we were growing up. A sentiment I instantly experienced again when I spotted photos of Zoë Kravitz out in New York last week wearing a slogan t-shirt with tiny black sports shorts. Yep, I am just as captivated by the athleisure look in 2025 as I was back then. However, while any successful attempt at borrowing (read: smuggling out of her room without her knowledge) my sister's sports shorts never ended in me wearing them for fear I couldn't pull them off, this summer there's no shortage of style inspiration to curate the perfect sports shorts outfit. I'm convinced the key to nailing the look lies in what shoes you style your gym shorts with. Whether you opt for black leather heeled mules à la Zoë, channel Hailey Bieber in her signature socks and loafers combo, or choose one of the endless number of sandal trends around this szn. Below, I've rounded up all the different outfit formulas worth replicating so anyone and everyone can pull off the sports shorts trend with ease! No need to thank me. Flip flops are easily the shoe of the summer. Whether you elevate the look with a heeled style or stick to a more comfortable pair, we're adding this 'fit straight into our summer holiday wardrobe. A loafer instantly smartens up athletic shorts. And, when it comes to the generational sock debate, we're definitely all for the visible ankle sock look. Sorry, not sorry. Luckily, even if you're anti-socks, the formula holds up. We love this cinched-in button-down shirt, sports shorts and loafers ensemble. The layered necklace stack takes it from good to great. Balance the masculinity of basketball shorts with uber-feminine kitten heels, like these OTT bow-adorned slingbacks. So cool! Yep, we love introducing a little contradiction into an outfit. Take this frilly blouse and block-heel boot look paired with classic sports shorts. Again, don't overlook the accessories, from the scrunchie to the boho beaded necklace. Recreating ASAP! Of course, sports shorts still work with their obvious counterpart. We like how this Fashion Week attendee colour-blocked her shorts and trainers to keep it feeling fresh and interesting. Lean into balletcore – because yes, dance *is* a sport – with a pair of ballet pumps. Leg warmers, optional. Thought you couldn't wear sports shorts out to dinner and drinks? Guess again. Sticking to black gym shorts with a coordinating blazer and very evening-coded heeled sandals makes a chic AF outfit. For a more subtle sporty take, try some skater-esque slip-ons with an oversized denim jacket and a leather shoulder bag. Still cute, but a little bit edgy, too. Even if you do dress head-to-toe in athleisure-wear, an unexpected shoe like gold wedge sandals sets this look apart. We're still loving cowboy boots and Western-core lovers will be pleased to hear they totally work with your sports shorts. Follow Alex on Instagram. Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there's nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she's passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
Time Business News
05-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time Business News
10 Best Gyms in Sydney (2025) for Every Fitness Level
Looking for the best gyms in Sydney? Whether you're a beginner or a pro, here are the top 10 gyms in 2025 for every fitness level, goal, and budget. 10 Best Gyms in Sydney (2025) for Every Fitness Level Finding the perfect gym isn't just about the equipment it's about the vibe, the trainers, the crowd, and whether you actually want to go. Whether you're new to fitness, training for your next marathon, or trying to finally commit to those New Year's goals, this list of the best gyms Sydney has to offer in 2025 has something for you. We've included a mix of budget-friendly spots, elite performance centres, 24/7 chains, and community-style gyms so you can pick what fits you best. 1. Virgin Active – Pitt Street Best for: All-round fitness, luxury facilities, group classes Located in the heart of Sydney CBD, Virgin Active is known for its high-end facilities, top-tier equipment, and wide range of group classes from boxing and HIIT to reformer Pilates. The environment is clean, modern, and motivating. Membership: From $38/week From $38/week Bonus: Sleep pods, spa, and a smoothie bar 2. Fitness First – Bondi Platinum Best for: Group classes, premium location, variety of training styles Fitness First is a household name, and the Bondi Platinum location is one of their best. You'll find everything from free weights to yoga to small group training. Plus, the views near the beach are a mood booster in themselves. Membership: From $32/week From $32/week Bonus: Outdoor training zone & sauna 3. Plus Fitness 24/7 – Multiple Locations Best for: Convenience, affordability, beginners If you want a no-frills, accessible gym that's open 24/7, Plus Fitness is a reliable choice. It's beginner-friendly with all the essential machines, and most locations have a strong community vibe. Membership: From $14.95/week From $14.95/week Bonus: No lock-in contract 4. 98 Gym – Riley Street Best for: Strength & conditioning, serious athletes Founded by former Commando Steve from The Biggest Loser , 98 Gym is for those who want to train like professionals. It focuses on performance training, functional movement, and results-based workouts. Membership: From $65/week From $65/week Bonus: Access to expert programming & performance testing 5. F45 Training – Various Locations Best for: High-intensity group workouts, time-efficient sessions If you like a fast-paced, social workout, F45 might be your match. Each 45-minute class is a mix of cardio and strength, changing daily. With locations all over Sydney, it's super accessible. Membership: From $55/week From $55/week Bonus: Community-driven with trainer support every session 6. City Gym – Darlinghurst Best for: Bodybuilding, diversity, old-school gym lovers An iconic gym in Sydney with a strong LGBTQ+ following, City Gym has been around since 1978 and still delivers. It's especially popular among bodybuilders, fitness models, and people who love a no-BS gym vibe. Membership: From $29.95/week From $29.95/week Bonus: Open 24/7 with a café and posing room 7. 1R (OneRebel) – Martin Place Best for: Boutique fitness, music-driven workouts, stylish space Think of it as the 'nightclub of fitness.' OneRebel is a UK-born boutique fitness brand known for its intense classes, LED-lit rooms, and pumping playlists. It's all about the experience. Membership: Class-pack or pay-per-class from $30 Class-pack or pay-per-class from $30 Bonus: Luxury changerooms & cold towels 8. Snap Fitness – Suburban Locations Best for: Quiet environments, 24/7 access, local feel Snap Fitness is great for those who want a more relaxed, consistent space to train in. It's less crowded than the big chains and offers decent equipment and personalized programs. Membership: From $17.95/week From $17.95/week Bonus: Free intro PT session with most memberships 9. The Cube Gym – Zetland Best for: Functional training, CrossFit-style workouts If you love lifting, jumping, pulling, and sweating with intention, this place blends the best of CrossFit with structured strength training. The coaches are hands-on, and the programming changes often. Membership: From $55/week From $55/week Bonus: Open gym access plus coached classes 10. Barry's Bootcamp – Martin Place Best for: HIIT lovers, high-energy sessions, transformation goals Barry's is all about intensity and results. Known globally for its 'red room,' every session combines treadmill intervals with strength circuits. It's hard but it works. Membership: Class packs or unlimited options starting around $35/session Class packs or unlimited options starting around $35/session Bonus: High-end protein bar on site Things to Consider When Choosing a Gym in Sydney Location: Choose one close to home or work you're more likely to go Choose one close to home or work you're more likely to go Fitness level: Some gyms are beginner-friendly, others cater to pros Some gyms are beginner-friendly, others cater to pros Training style: Group fitness? Bodybuilding? Functional? Match the vibe Group fitness? Bodybuilding? Functional? Match the vibe Hours: 24/7 gyms offer flexibility if you have a hectic schedule 24/7 gyms offer flexibility if you have a hectic schedule Cost: Don't forget to check for joining fees or minimum contracts Large FAQs (Instead of Conclusion) Plus Fitness and Snap Fitness offer some of the lowest weekly rates, often under $20, with 24/7 access and no lock-in contracts. Yes! Virgin Active, Barry's Bootcamp, and OneRebel are premium fitness spaces with designer facilities, high-end equipment, and extra perks like saunas, sleep pods, and luxe changerooms. Snap Fitness, Plus Fitness, and some Fitness First locations are great for beginners with easy-to-use machines and optional PT guidance. Virgin Active and F45 stand out for their variety and quality of group training. If you're after a boutique feel, Barry's Bootcamp and OneRebel are top choices. Many gyms offer free trials or discounted intro weeks. It's best to visit their website or call the front desk to check availability. Yes. Plus Fitness, Snap Fitness, and City Gym are open 24/7 and are ideal for people with non-traditional schedules. City Gym and 98 Gym are two of the best spots for serious lifters, offering extensive weight racks, machines, and supportive communities. If you value experience, motivation, and design, boutique gyms like Barry's or OneRebel can be worth the higher cost especially if group training keeps you consistent. Some locations like Fitness First and Virgin Active offer student or off-peak discounts. Always ask during signup. Most mid-to-high-end gyms such as Virgin Active, Fitness First, and 98 Gym offer showers, lockers, and towel service. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Malay Mail
27-05-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Creating Spaces That Matter: Avenue K's Drive For Connection And Community Impact
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 27 May 2025 - Avenue K Shopping Mall is reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and holistic well-being as core pillars of its community engagement. In today's evolving urban landscape, Avenue K continues to be a vibrant hub where individuals of all backgrounds, interests, and abilities are welcomed and empowered—living out the mall's tagline: "Make Friends, Create Trends." The recent community workout event in collaboration with Fitness First at ABOVE, Avenue K Shopping Mall drew significant participation from the public. In conjunction with Autism Awareness Day, Avenue K collaborated with—Malaysia's largest multidisciplinary intervention centre—to hostHeart: Colours of Neurodiversity on 12 April 2025. The event explored themes of neurodiversity, accessibility, mental health, and assistive technology through interactive workshops, expert panels, and stories from lived experiences. The initiative reaffirmed Avenue K's commitment to fostering an inclusive society where all individuals are seen, heard, and an effort to promote kindness to animals and advocate for responsible pet ownership, Avenue K teamed up withto organise Avenue Katz Adoption Fiesta from 14-20 April 2025, that brought together animal lovers, local shelters, and adorable feline companions in search of forever homes. A total of 43 cats were adopted during the event. Supported by key government bodies including the, the event also featured educational booths and activities that raised public awareness about animal welfare and pet care. Shoppers contributed to animal-related causes, reinforcing the community's role in animal welfare and Avenue K's ongoing mission of compassion and meaningful K is proud to work withto support the local music scene through a dedicated Buskers Corner within the mall—a welcoming space for performers to share their craft with the public. On 8 May 2025, the mall also hosted the Malaysian Buskers Workshop 7.0, a hands-on training and sharing session designed to develop performance skills, industry knowledge, and community connections. These efforts highlight Avenue K's dedication to nurturing creative expression and empowering homegrown K is home to a permanent Reading Corner curated by—a cosy, self-service book store where visitors of all ages can browse, enjoy and purchase books at their own pace. This ongoing collaboration fosters a culture of literacy, discovery, and creativity. In support of the broader literary community, Avenue K also hosted the Global Book Crawl – Malaysia Edition (Grand Finale) from 26 - 27 April 2025, an initiative led by BFBW that celebrates the charm of independent bookshops nationwide. Through these efforts, Avenue K continues to nurture a thoughtful, engaged community with a deep passion for K continues to inspire active living with inclusive fitness programmes that energise and engage the community. In partnership with, the mall has hosted a variety of wellness activities—from the adrenaline-fuelled Ice Warrior Challenge and high-intensity HYROX functional training, to calming yoga sessions and rhythm-packed Body Jam and Zumba workouts. These initiatives not only promote physical health, but also foster a fun, social environment that encourages everyone to get ahead, Avenue K will celebrate Global Wellness Day on 14 June 2025, with the main event taking place at Level 4, the mall's rooftop event space. The celebration will offer a full day of activities—including workout sessions, mindfulness practices, wellness talks, health screenings, and booths featuring healthy snacks and beverages—underscoring the mall's commitment to holistic well-being and making wellness accessible to K's signature event, the AK Balloon Run, returns for its 9th edition on 21 September 2025 —continuing its mission to unite people from all walks of life in a celebration of community, inclusivity, and joy. Open to runners, joggers, walkers, and differently-abled individuals, the event promotes not only a spirit of togetherness but also the importance of leading an active, healthy year, Avenue K is proud to continue its collaboration with, led by wheelchair fencer Daniel Lee, reinforcing our support for adaptive sports and inclusive participation. Together, we aim to promote acceptance, break down barriers, and celebrate the strength and resilience of every the strength of community—empowering everyone, regardless of ability, to come together, get moving, and be part of something bigger. Avenue K remains committed to championing inclusivity, unity, and the collective spirit that brings us all part of its ongoing sustainability commitment, Avenue K's Recycling Corner on Level C (Concourse) offers a convenient space for shoppers to recycle items such as e-waste, paper, plastics, and books. By promoting responsible disposal and conscious consumerism, the initiative encourages environmentally mindful practices within an urban setting—fostering a greener, more sustainable Avenue K, community engagement and inclusivity are not one-off initiatives—they are part of our core identity. Staying true to our taglinewe strive to build meaningful connections and lead with purpose by championing causes that matter. As we continue to evolve alongside our city, we remain dedicated to creating experiences that connect, uplift, and celebrate every member of our diverse community. Whether through wellness, education, sustainability, or inclusion, Avenue K is proud to be a space where everyone #AvenueKMY #MakeFriendsCreateTrends #AKFriends #ShoppingMallMalaysia #ShoppingMall #NeurodiversityMatters #PetAdoptionMY #SupportLocalTalent #BooksForABetterWorld #GlobalWellnessDay #AKBalloonRun #Sustainability The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Avenue K Shopping Mall Avenue K is Kuala Lumpur's coolest urban hub, where life and creativity are celebrated. Far from a regular shopping mall, Avenue K is an experiential destination that has transformed the art of shopping. It captivates the senses with exciting experiences and Instagrammable spaces waiting to be discovered. Avenue K is where you make friends, and create trends. For more information, please visit
The Guardian
05-05-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
The one change that worked: I could never get fit – until I tried a 40-second plank every day
For years, I loved smoking, slurping large glasses of wine and gobbling wings from overlit chicken shops. I tried to be healthy: I would make overnight oats; get only the small mixed sushi from Wasabi; and drink prosecco because someone said it was keto-friendly. I even did Veganuary back when it was such a gruelling feat of strength to be vegan for a month that people would sponsor you in horror and amazement. I felt I had more in common with a pair of old socks than with gym-goers. Terms like 'reps', 'leg days' and 'core strength' made me cringe, mainly because they were the secret language of an exclusive club to which I wasn't invited. Yet I still believed I could magic up the motivation to work out profusely and daily. I signed up to Fitness First because it was opposite my flat, so I knew I would definitely go. (I went twice in a year.) Then I realised the problem: I had set the bar sky high. Just like any fad diet, the plan was always doomed to fail. One day, I wondered if I could stick to doing a 40-second plank, every day for a week. Just to see. Forty seconds was all I could manage at the time, and a week seemed doable. Five years later, I can now do a two-and-a-half-minute plank and various other strength exercises. I still do it all religiously every day and the domino effect it has had has changed my life. About a year in, I began to encounter a tantalisingly unfamiliar feeling: physical strength. I noticed I was standing differently, taller perhaps, my core naturally taut. There were even the beginnings of – dare I say it – abs. Am I someone that has abs, I wondered? The feeling was exhilarating. I had spent years body-shaming myself: as a teenager, I existed on a diet of pasta and worshipped Kate Moss, so I always believed I was overweight because I wasn't a waif. Now, suddenly, I was accepting my body, even liking it. But my body hadn't changed size – I just felt stronger physically and, consequently, mentally. This newfound confidence led me back to my childhood sport: competitive swimming. I am better at swimming now because my core is stronger and my core gets stronger the more I swim. A coach recently referred to me as 'an athlete' and I laughed (before spending the rest of the day smirking and in my head trying out the word 'athlete' next to my name). Sign up to Well Actually Practical advice, expert insights and answers to your questions about how to live a good life after newsletter promotion Because of the regular swimming, I've lost weight, I'm inspired to eat more healthily, I've quit smoking and my mental health is the best it has ever been. Sometimes, I even crave vegetables. I haven't become totally insufferable (yet) – I still drink wine and gobble fried chicken – but my life is different, and I can trace it all back to one, wobbly, 40-second plank on a rainy Monday evening. I'll have to plank for ever now for fear of losing my streak. Do you have an opinion on the issues raised in this article? If you would like to submit a response of up to 300 words by email to be considered for publication in our letters section, please click here.
Telegraph
13-04-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
‘The rich are wrong to flee Britain. They should stay to fix it'
Wealthy individuals should stop fleeing Britain because of high taxes and stay here to help fix the economy, the boss of Fitness First has said. Justin Musgrove, the gym chain's chief executive, said it was a 'shame' to see rich Britons and entrepreneurs leaving the country for places such as Dubai, as he vowed to invest more heavily in the British high street. 'Leaving and taking our tax revenues away from this country won't help,' he said. 'Putting more inexperienced people in charge of big business won't help. Stay at home and help fix the problem. 'We do have a nation of great entrepreneurs. We're a very inventive country and we're known for it around the world, so let's keep our expertise local, if we can, and succeed together.' His comments come amid a growing exodus of wealthy individuals to lower-tax countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to a recent report, more than 11,000 millionaires have left London alone in the last year, including 18 with wealth over £100m, and two billionaires.
