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Nike just released a new pair of trainers and they look like Crocs

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A mix of black crocs and the new Nike trainer
There’s a new shoe in town (Picture Nike/Crocs)

Nike has unveiled a new summertime trainer that looks rather familiar to another seasonal shoe.

The sportswear brand just revealed its Air Force 1 VTF trainers – the newest edition of its popular Air Force 1 range – but people have been quick to call out their similarity to controversial shoe brand Crocs.

The Air Force 1 VTFs are made up of black leather, rubber soles and gold detailing, but, most noticeably, they have a slingback heel strap – echoing the famous rubber shoe design.

Somewhere in between a trainer and a sandal, the new shoe has all the same components of an Air Force 1 at the front, but it sports this unique sandal/Crocs hybrid at the back.

According to the product description, the shoes have ‘all of the elements of the classic look in a sling back design.’

The sportswear brand also says the elastic strap is ‘easy to take on and off.’ Stylish and functional, then.

The hybrid trainers are selling for $90 (£74), meaning they’re almost double the price of Crocs – which usually cost around $44 (£36).

Nike release new trainers that look like Crocs
Sandals-meet-sneakers (Picture: Nike)

It’s probably also worth noting that Nike are currently only selling in kids sizes, up to up to age seven – so bad news for adults look to get a pair.

Naturally, trainer fanatics have been quick to comment on the new design.

One Twitter user, Cealey Godwin said: ‘If Crocs and Nike had a baby it would most certainly look like this.’

Another found the Croc-inspired makeover hilarious, saying: ‘Nike have invented a sneak/sandal for the roadman. Nike airforce sandal.’

While some where just keen to express their absolute outrage over the new look.

Another Twitter user simply said: ‘This has to be a sick joke.’

MORE: Man in suit gets piggyback off woman so his shoes don’t get wet

MORE: Sustainable summer shoe brands that should be on your radar

MORE: Five of the weirdest trainer collabs of all time


Why do your houseplants keep dying?

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A woman watering her houseplants
Give them a little care and attention (Picture: Getty)

Houseplants are in fashion but do you find that no matter how hard you try, you face throwing another one away quite quickly after bringing it home?

Even if you don’t have those natural green fingers, most house plants are actually low maintenance but you just need to know what sort of maintenance to give them.

Firstly, it’s important to buy plants that suit your home. Make sure they have enough space and don’t pick up a light-lover for a dark spot.

From there, you need to think about water, heat, light and food.

Freddie Blackett, CEO of Patch Plants has some tips.

He says: ‘Don’t water too much. It’s easy to kill a plant with kindness, thinking the more water you give it the happier it will be.

‘Not all plants have the same water needs. While ferns may need topping up several times a week, cacti might happily go weeks without a drink.

‘How often you’ll need to water your plants depends on various factors, including how dry your home is and where the plant is living, but as a rule of thumb (or finger): if you push your finger into the soil and it’s dry to the second joint, it’s probably time for a drink.’

Of course, don’t overwater your plants – sitting them in water can cause the roots to rot.

A woman caring for her houseplants
Soon your plants will be thriving (Picture: Getty)

Freddie adds: ‘Make sure they can drain freely by using a pot with a saucer to catch excess water (don’t forget to pour away the excess).’

If your plant is a little too dry, it might be because where you have placed it. Sitting in front of a radiator, especially as we head into autumn and the heating comes back on, can be dangerous for your houseplants.

Freddie explains: ‘Very few plants will enjoy the dry, intense heat from a radiator, so don’t put any of them directly in front of one.

‘If your plant is one that thrives in humidity – like a palm or a peace lily – make sure to keep it regularly misted, especially when the central heating is on. Even better, let it live in a bright bathroom.’

Although they enjoy light, they might also be getting too much and it might be good to move them back slightly.

‘Different plants have different light needs,’ Freddie says. ‘It’s rarely best to put them next to a window and think that sun all day will make them big and healthy. Many actively dislike strong sun.

‘Work out what type of light your home has. If you have lots of bright light throughout the day, something like a light-loving fiddle leaf fig will be perfect for you. If your home is darker, with mostly light from the north, it would suffer. Then you need plants that thrive in low light, like aspidistra.

‘The vast majority don’t like sitting directly next to a window with intense sun shining on them all day, the cactus being the exception. Pull them back a bit so light hits them indirectly.

‘And if you think your plant isn’t getting enough light, or too much, try placing it somewhere else. They’re portable.’

Plants do appreciate a little food from time to time and it can help them thrive but too much can make them unhealthy.

Freddie says: ‘Indoor plants in pots usually appreciate occasional feeding, because it gives them extra nutrients to help them grow, but you should feed sparingly.

‘Too much fertiliser can do more harm than good. Check your plant’s feeding requirements first and if in doubt, under-feed rather than over-feed.

‘Only feed during the growing season, i.e. April to September, as the majority of plants are dormant in winter. Never feed a sick plant as it will only making it unhappier.’

Finally, if your plants start to droop, don’t panic. If you take the steps above the moment you notice trouble, you can bring them back to health.

MORE: Millennials, rejoice: A hotel that looks after house plants for free is now open

MORE: How to keep your plants alive while you are on holiday

Vegan tells meat-eater they’re appropriating veganism by eating tofu

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Grilled Tofu With Ginger-Cilantro Sauce
One vegan thinks meat-eaters shouldn’t eat tofu (Picture: Tom McCorkle)

Vegans don’t always have a lot of options when it comes to nutritional, ethical and easily-available food, but there are a few established favourites like tofu.

When one person on a plant-based diet was invited to a dinner serving tofurkey (tofu turkey), they wanted to get the recipe from the host.

But things quickly turned sour when they learned that the cook wasn’t actually vegan.

In a text exchange that quickly turned hostile, the guest could be seen telling the meat-eater that they should stop ‘appropriating’ veganism by eating popular plant-based goods like tofu.

The conversation was shared on subreddit r/gatekeeping which is followed by 654,000 members to mock people who ‘take it upon themselves to decide who does or does not have access or rights to a community or identity’.

Appropriation is the concept of taking something for your own use, usually from a minority group and sometimes profiting off it, without due credit or using it as a gimmick.

While it’s a very real concept, Redditors felt the vegan guest was taking it too far, especially considering no one owns the rights to tofu.

Vegan tells meat-eater they're appropriating veganism by eating tofu
(Picture: Reddit.Arachnica)

In the exchange, the vegan texter wrote: ‘So you like pretending to be a vegan ’cause it’s cool and in? It’s not hip or cool. It’s important.

‘Tofu is strictly for vegans and vegetarians. You are basically admitting to appropriating us and stealing what we need for your own selfish use.’

The recipient then replied ‘I’m not appropriating anything, I’m eating food I like, you absolute f*ck.’

Other Redditors didn’t see the vegan’s point, saying that their point was contradictory; eating loads of tofu would create demand for it, not a shortage.

‘Getting meat-eaters to eat more plant-based food is literally one of the biggest tenets of veganism… that person is just in it for identity politics,’ wrote one person.

‘Is there a tofu shortage that I don’t know about?’ asked another.

Others noted that online identities were more hostile than their real-life counterparts, vouching for vegans in their lives.

One person wrote how internet anonymity just brings out the worst, most extreme versions of people.

‘Most real-life vegans I know are sweet and mindful people. Online vegans are more often than not rabid angry fanatics. Real-life gamers are mostly nice and fun. Online gaming community is full of bigots and obnoxious man-babies.

What are the benefits of tofu

Vegans and non-vegans can appreciate the deliciousness of tofu which can be prepared in various ways.

Tofu is made from soybeans which are mild-flavoured with a buttery taste and texture, and it is commonly used in its original form in soups, salads and refried bean dishes.

It contains no cholesterol and is an excellent source of iron and calcium.

It is an important source of protein, making it ideal for vegans and vegetarians.

Another echoed the sentiment, saying: ‘The vegans I hang out in real life are so sweet. They visit my town and immediately ask for a food recommendation, or bring little snacks and a bunch of fun recipes.

‘We talk about the environment, and look at dog videos.’

So just a reminder to anyone that’s part of any sort of online community, let’s calm down with the gatekeeping.

And once we’ve done that, let’s go and enjoy some tofu.

MORE: Husband tells vegan wife she should eat meat as she’s pregnant, ‘for the baby’s health’

MORE: Two-page wedding invitation tells guests to eat beforehand as only cookies will be served

MORE: Going vegan could improve sleep: Here are eight ingredients to help you snooze

Hilarious dog photobombs his owners’ engagement pictures

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dog photobombs his owners' engagement shoot
Joyce Sabino Greffe and Alfredo Garcia da Silva’s engagement photoshoot didn’t go to plan (Picture: Nicolas Carrelo Fotografia )

One couple’s engagement photoshoot took an unexpected turn after they decided to include their unpredictable puppy in the proceedings.

Joyce Sabino Greffe and Alfredo Garcia da Silva of Campo Grande in Brazil wanted to make their nine-month old dog Thor a part of their special day.

But instead of being a good boy, Thor had other ideas.

The four-legged friend let his over-excitement get the better of him.

Rather than sitting nicely for some picture-perfect snaps, Thor saw the opportunity as his time to wreck havoc on his unsuspecting owners.

He proceeded to twist out of Alfredo and Joyce’s arms and laid some extremely slobbery kisses on them

But not only that – he also hurtled towards the camera, thrashed around dramatically, posed with his backside to the camera and jumped on top of Joyce.

The couple’s chosen photographer Nícolas Carrelo managed to capture some of Thor’s hilarious antics.

dog photobombs his owners' engagement shoot
Thor saw an opportunity to photobomb and took it (Picture: Nicolas Carrelo Fotografia)
dog photobombs his owners' engagement shoot
More hilarious antics (Picture: Nicolas Carrelo Fotografia)

dog photobombs his owners' engagement shoot
Thor couldn’t contain his excitement (Picture: Nicolas Carrelo Fotografia)

Shortly after the shoot, Nícolas decided to post the brilliant outtakes on Facebook, where the photobombs received more than 115,000 shares and 64,000 comments, with users begging for more photos of the lovable canine.

dog photobombs his owners' engagement shoot
Kisses for Alfredo (Picture: Nicolas Carrelo Fotografia)

Nícolas told INSIDER: ‘It was a hilarious photo session with this hyperactive dog.

‘Yes, it was challenging. But it all worked out.’

We’ll have to wait and see if Thor will steals the show at Joyce and Alfredo’s big day too.

MORE: Dogs with Jobs: How do you train a guide dog to become someone’s eyes?

MORE: Hero dogs can sniff out cystic fibrosis before it takes hold

MORE: You can now win a rooftop wedding for your dog

People are obsessed with this 40p vinegar hack to make your washing soft and smell amazing

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A washing machine and a bottle of white distilled vinegar
You can pick this up from any supermarket (Picture: Getty)

We love a cleaning hack – whether it’s using cola to get stains out of clothes or this great way to clean your oven trays.

But one particular product hack has got people talking this week on social media – vinegar.

Yes, the stuff you put on your fish and chips could be key to getting soft washing that smells amazing, without spending lots of money.

People on cleaning group Hinch Army Cleaning Tips have been sharing the hack.

One poster said: ‘Well after reading all your posts lately about ditching the softener and adding a capful of white vinegar to the washing instead, I jumped on the bandwagon and I am AMAZED 😍 my washing has never smelt so nice or clean! And my washing machine is sparkling.’

‘I’ve done it today and I’m so impressed with how wonderful my clothes and towels smell. I was very sceptical but I’m so happy with the results,’ another added.

Before you reach for any vinegar in your cupboard, you need to make sure you use distilled white vinegar. This type doesn’t contain any tannins (plant dyes), which would stain your clothes.

It’s a very mild acid that won’t harm fabrics but it will remove soap residue.

You can pick up a bottle from supermarkets for around 40p-50p.

Just add a capful of the stuff to the drawer on your washing machine instead of fabric conditioner, fans say it helps to enhance the smell of your laundry detergent and leave them feeling soft.

Although it might seem like a strange idea, especially when you get a whiff of it before the wash, everyone says you can’t smell it at all at the end of the wash.

It also helps to keep your washing machine clean and removes mildew odours.

It can prevent static and unlike many fabric softeners, it doesn’t affect the fire retardant used in some fabrics for children.

It’s worth a try on your next laundry day.

MORE: Why do your houseplants keep dying?

MORE: Hilarious dog photobombs his owners’ engagement pictures

That Zara dress is so popular, one woman decided to get married in it

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The Zara spotted dress that's gone viral
Would you get married in this dress? (Picture: Instagram/ellencscott; Zara)

If you haven’t spotted that Zara dresses this summer then where the hell have you been?

The midi fashion staple is so prolific it was said to have ‘conquered Britain’, stolen the summer and other cheery things that will have you wondering whether it’s too late to grab your own one (it probably is).

But you’d be wrong in thinking that the flattering item has gripped British dressers only; the £39.99 dress is universally loved.

So much so that one woman decided to get married in it.

Gulnaz Khusneeva from Kazan, Russia, married her partner Azat in May. The couple had planned a super low-key wedding, inviting 25 guests.

And while it’s unheard of among most brides, Gulnaz decided to wear something old for the big day (we stan a sustainable queen).

But wanting more for her, Gulzana’s sister stepped in with a something new – the polka dot dress.

Not realising it achieved cult status in the U.K, the pregnant bride strutted down the aisle and said I do in the universally-flattering dress.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxM6mZYgQp9/?utm_source=ig_embed

Gulnaz is pretty fashion-forward, being a CEO of a children’s clothing company, and the 28-year-old was one of the earlier wearers of the dress.

Despite being so style-savvy, she hadn’t purchased an extravagant gown for herself.

‘I’m a hard-working person and I didn’t care about our wedding,’ she told HuffPost UK.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsK4o_cgOzW/

‘I thought “It’s just a formality” – we had lived together four years and it was just for our baby. I wasn’t going to buy a special dress, just wear something old of my own.

‘But [my sister] forbade me to go to the registry office in an old dress and bought me a new dress the day before our wedding.’

It wasn’t until three months later that Gulnaz was alerted to the celebrity of her wedding outfit.

Her other sister pointed out its popularity, encapsulated by an Instagram account which documents sightings of the attire.

And while we Brits can’t walk down the road without clocking at least one woman in the dress, in Gulnaz’s home town of Tatarstan, it’s not as trendy.

The former bride’s sister had bought the dress from a local Zara store but it didn’t exactly fly off the sales in the same way it did London.

Tough crowd.

MORE: Think before you take a photo of another woman in that polka dot Zara dress

MORE: Zara launches a black version of that cult spotty summer dress

MORE: Move over polka dot frock – Zara has another cult dress to look out for

Man discovers Marmite jars have flat sides that make it easier to scrape it all out

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A jar of marmite
This Marmite hack could make it easier to eat for those who love it (Picture: Getty)

The slogan says ‘you either love it or hate it’ and if you’re a Marmite fan, you’ll know the struggle of trying to scrape the jar clean.

With the thick paste sat at the bottom, it’s hard to get out every last drop.

Well it turns out the jars have been a design feature that can help

The jars of the yeast spread have flat sides so when you start to run low, you can lay them on a side in the cupboard so the spread all runs closer to the top.

The hack was spotted by John and posted on Twitter.

He said: ‘It took me years to realise that near-empty Marmite jars should be kept on their side so you can the last of it out more easily. That’s why the jar is flat is the sides.’

It all makes sense now.

Marmite lovers were pretty impressed with the idea.

Darren said: ‘This right here is the tweet of the century. May as well turn the internet off. That is genius!!’

Luce said: ‘All those years of desperately trying to scrape out the last bit! When my current jar is close to empty, I shall relish placing it on its side in the cupboard. Thank you!’

But the Marmite haters soon piled in.

One said: ‘No they shouldn’t be kept on their side. Whether full or near-empty, the best place to store a jar of marmite is in the bin.’

Another added: ‘I like the way it fits comfortably in the hand so I can throw it as far away as possible.’

Another person pointed out that it’s probably to make them sit in the conveyor belt in the factory but if it makes it easier to get it out of the jar, then we’re all for it.

MORE: That Zara dress is so popular, one woman decided to get married in it

MORE: People are obsessed with this 40p vinegar hack to make your washing soft and smell amazing

This gym-hopping workout is the bar crawl for fitness lovers

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People running in a group outdoors
Ditch the Thursday beers and get a sweat on instead. (Picture: Virgin Active)

Want the fun of a pub crawl without the pain of a hangover? This gym-hopping fitness crawl could be just what you’re looking for.

OK, so it’s not exactly like a pub crawl. First of all, there’s no booze. And secondly, there’s lots of fitness. So less shots, more squats.

But it’s a fantastic, sociable way to mix up your normal, boring gym routine and push yourself beyond your comfort zone.

The Virgin Active Club Crawl gets participants to run between three different gyms, taking part in a group exercise class at each site. Three runs and three classes? Pretty intense.

The three cross-club sprints will take you across London starting at Broadgate to Bank and finishing in Aldersgate. At each gym you will fit in a class of Yoga, Heat and Revolution Cycle – so you’ll literally be ticking every fitness box there is.

50% of women and 45% of men say that they no longer have a boozy night out in any given week – and more people than ever are choosing to avoid alcohol altogether. There is a rising demand for healthier ways to socialise – so the ‘gym crawl’ could be just what we need.

People running in a group outdoors
The only catch is that you have to be a member of Virgin Active in order to take part. (Picture: Virgin Active)

‘With people becoming increasingly more concerned with their fitness, there is a demand for more experience led and social events at our health clubs,’ says Matt Harras, group exercise manager for Virgin Active.

‘Our Club Crawl will bring together fitness lovers for a unique evening where we will all combat an abbreviated version of three of our key classes – and there will be no hangover the next day.’

Virgin has noted a rise in group exercise participation from their members, so this is the next evolution, and a chance for fitness lovers to make a full evening out of going to the gym.

To take part in the Club Crawl you have to be a Virgin Active member, which isn’t cheap. Packages at London’s Broadgate club start from £132 per month. Put there are deals that include no joining fee or getting your first month for free.

The Virgin Active Club Crawl will start at Broadgate studio at 6.45pm on Thursday 5th September.

I am Team GB

Toyota has teamed up with Team GB to re-launch the hugely successful participation campaign ‘I am Team GB’.

Inspired by the achievements of Team GB athletes and the amazing efforts of local community heroes, Team GB has created ‘The Nation’s Biggest Sports Day’, which will take place on the 24thAugust.

Over the weekend, there will be hundreds of free and fun activities across the country, put on by an army of volunteers; the ‘I am Team GB Games Makers’.

To Join the Team and be part of The Nation’s Biggest Sports Day sign up at: www.IAmTeamGB.com


World’s oldest living pet Tommy the tortoise celebrates 121st birthday

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Sheila and Tommy
Sheila and Tommy (Picture: Caters News)

What is the secret to a long life? Well if you ask this 121-year-old it’s dandelions and sleeping for six months a year.

Tommy the tortoise is celebrating her birthday and is now the world’s oldest living pet.

She has survived two world wars, six different monarchs and 21 US Presidents.

Born in 1898, Tommy has been in Sheila Floris’s family since 1909 when her grandmother Margaret Cloonan bought her for £1 – when the tortoise was already 11 years old.

Sheila claims that Tommy’s longevity can be attributed to her healthy diet of garden weeds and plenty of love and care from her owners over the last 121 years.

And it seems to have worked as Sheila, 62, who has cared for Tommy since she was a child, claims to never have had to take her to the vet.

Sheila said: ‘I was five years old when she was passed to my family.

Tommy the tortoise with Sheila's sister and Father
Tommy the tortoise with Sheila’s sister and Father (Picture: Caters News Agency)

‘My earliest memory of her is in my mother and father’s garden crawling around.

‘She was lovely to grow up with. I remember her racing around the garden and being quite speedy.

‘She’s very special, she’s a survivor.’

Margaret named the tortoise Tommy thinking he was a boy but discovered her true sex after she started to lay eggs.

Sheila said: ‘The eggs were empty but we were all shocked, we’d always thought she was a boy. It was too late to change the name so the name has stuck ever since.’

Sheila added that growing up Tommy was exotic compared to most pets her friends had.

She said: ‘In the 70s most tortoises died but my mother was really good with her, she’s survived so long because she’s been so well looked after.

‘She’s like a family member, she’s like a duchess, we’ve all grown up with her.’

Tommy spends her days in the garden and enjoys a particular spot under a hedge.

Remarkably, Tommy hibernates for six months of the year but always wakes up on either 1 April – which was Sheila mother’s birthday or Mother’s day.

Tommy the tortoise with Sheila and her dog in the 80s
Tommy the tortoise with Sheila and her dog in the 80s (Picture: Caters News Agency)

Sheila said: ‘Tommy enjoys munching on grass, weeds and dandelions.

‘She’s easier than any other kind of pet.

‘She’s cheap. She eats from the weeds from the garden and hibernates under the soil, she looks after herself. There’s no expense.

‘It’s funny how she wakes up on those two days, it’s like mum calling her and telling her to wake up even after all these years.

‘Tommy has always been there for me, she’s been part of the family, it would be strange not having her around to be honest.’

Sheila believes that Tommy will live on for at least another 50 years.

She said: ‘She’ll live on till at least 170, she’s strong and she’s well looked after.

‘Tommy still makes us laugh by racing around the garden, if I go outside I’ll call her name and she’ll come out to me.

‘The future is bright because she’s got people around her who love her and are very protective of her.’

MORE: People are obsessed with this 40p vinegar hack to make your washing soft and smell amazing

MORE: Hilarious dog photobombs his owners’ engagement pictures

Barre is the low-impact workout that targets every muscle in your body

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Group of Women Doing a Barre class, leaning against the barre in a squat position
‘The workout is something you can do throughout your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond’ (Picture: Getty)

Barre fitness is a ballet inspired workout that challenges your muscles, reduces fat and improves posture.

Set in a dance-studio with mirrors and a barre pole – classes are comprised of high repetition exercises, balances and poses that test your balance and flexibility while building muscle definition.

What makes it different from other workouts is that it is low-impact, meaning it’s kind on the joints and accessible for people of any age, or if you’re recovering from injury or pregnancy.

We asked Niki Rein, the founder of Barrecore, what makes this workout so special and why it can be so effective.

‘Barre is far from a trend, it’s a longevity plan and it is here to stay,’ Niki tells Metro.co.uk.

‘The workout is something you can do throughout your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. Through doing barre workouts, you will continue to see change in your body, because with barre, there is always somewhere to go.’

Lower portion of women doing a barre class in a group, holding on to the bar in a squat position
‘You’ll be nailing planks and bicycle crunches in no time, seeing definition and increased strength super quickly too’ (Picture: Getty)

Niki first came across barre when she was living in the US. She couldn’t understand why it wasn’t available in the UK.

‘There is a barre studio on every street out in NYC now but in the UK we are still playing catch up,’ she explains.

‘We launched Barrecore in 2011 and now have 13 studios in London and Manchester. Our vision is to make Barrecore available to every neighbourhood.’

What is barre good for?

‘Barre changes your body by reducing body fat, increasing muscle definition and importantly, through improving your overall posture,’ says Niki.

‘We do this through exercises that push you to maximize efficiency through deep muscle burn to the point of shaking. We call this “shake” the sweet spot which creates incredible results.

‘Most importantly, Barrecore is a low-impact, high repetition workout which means it’s ideal whether you are pre- or postnatal, recovering from an injury or getting into fitness for the first time.’

What are the benefits of Barre?

‘Barrecore is an isometric exercise which works to target every major muscle group with a focus on the joint stabilising and postural muscles.

‘In the 2006 Journal for Applied Research, a study proved that doing isometric exercise for six minutes would be the equivalent muscle work of 30-35 minutes of gym work on commercial weight-lifting equipment.

‘The general benefits are: improved strength, posture, balance, proprioception, as well as, an improved body composition.

‘The high-repetition movements that cause this muscle burnout create a hormone reaction that has you melting fat for up to three days post-class.

‘Each of our workouts are choreographed to focus on thighs, seat and upper body strength, but the core burn is like nothing else.

‘The focused movements and reps work muscles to exhaustion and you’ll be nailing planks and bicycle crunches in no time, seeing definition and increased strength super quickly too.

‘You don’t need to start as an expert, however, as classes are meticulously tailored to suit every fitness level and the one-to-one attention is almost unprecedented as far as group fitness goes.’

Women in a dance studio doing a plie holding onto a barre
‘A barre habit will see you burning fat, powering up muscles and improving your posture’ (Picture: Getty)

Who can try barre?

‘Anyone can try Barrecore, even those who have chronic or recent injuries such as back or knee pain. It’s also great for pre- and postnatal or anyone brand new to fitness to the fitness bunnies.

‘A barre habit will see you burning fat, powering up muscles and improving your posture (the core work works wonders there) but you don’t need to be super fit or coordinated to start with.

‘While it’s a high intensity workout, the low-impact nature of the classes means that it places minimal stress on joints, and it could even help you to iron out niggles and recover from injury.

‘Our regular barre-goers report improvements with back issues and resolution of RSI, and the fact that the injury risk is low to begin with means that you’re far more likely to be able to keep your barre workouts consistent, meaning that you see the results you want even faster, whether that’s weight loss, muscle strengthening or simply a clearer head.

‘Those who suffer from chronic knee and back pain tend to find relief from the stabilisation and core strengthening exercises after just a few weeks of regular barre classes.

‘Instructors will give modifications to ensure positions and range of movement are safe for injuries. Also, clients who suffer from minor scoliosis notice a considerable improvement with their levels of pain, posture, and energy levels.’

What are the myths about barre?

It’s more than just prancing.

Many people assume that barre is essentially a ballet class without the frills, lifts or end of term exams – but that’s not true at all.

Sure, we’ve got a ballet barre to work with and the likes of deep pliés are included to get thighs burning, but the unique method incorporates fat-torching interval training with functional stretches to increase flexibility, and despite the low-impact nature of the workout, it’s tough.

A lot of people also think that doing Barrecore requires dance training and is only open to those who are very flexible, it’s not true – we welcome everybody, and everyone walks away feeling challenged and uplifted – no legwarmers or leotards required.

Niki Rein, Barrecore founder

What do you actually do in a barre class?

Classes range from 45 minutes to one hour and will start with a warm-up followed by full-body barre and floor work incorporating various props and weights, and ends with stretches and a final relaxation.

Instructors recommend that you wear fitted clothing –  your fave leggings and a vest will be fine. You should avoid leggings with unnecessary zips (these can prove uncomfortable during floor work).

Also you don’t need trainers – which is great news if you have to lug your kit too and from the office. You can do it barefoot, or find special, grippy socks.

A low impact sports bra should give you enough support for the classes – but don’t let that lull you into a false sense of security. You will be sweating by the end.

‘The Barrecore Method is graceful but still powerful,’ says Niki.

‘Because it’s a low-impact but high-intensity exercise, it integrates the fat-burning format of interval training to exhaust each major muscle group which in turn helps to lengthen muscles.

‘For this reason, it’s an incredibly effective workout for safely reshaping the entire body, creating the highly coveted ‘barre physique’.”

I am Team GB

Toyota has teamed up with Team GB to re-launch the hugely successful participation campaign ‘I am Team GB’.

Inspired by the achievements of Team GB athletes and the amazing efforts of local community heroes, Team GB has created ‘The Nation’s Biggest Sports Day’, which will take place on the 24thAugust.

Over the weekend, there will be hundreds of free and fun activities across the country, put on by an army of volunteers; the ‘I am Team GB Games Makers’.

To Join the Team and be part of The Nation’s Biggest Sports Day sign up at: www.IAmTeamGB.com

What you need to know about the Korean wellness concept ‘nunchi’

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Illustration of a woman comforting another woman
Nunchi is about listening and gaging the mood of others (Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)

First there was hygge – the Danish lifestyle concept that suggested that overall contentment and wellbeing could be achieved through the simple things in life.

Then, Marie Kondo sparked joy with her tips for decluttering both our homes and minds.

But now, there’s another wellness concept in town, and it goes by the name of ‘nunchi’.

While it might seem new, nunchi refers to an ancient Korean art – so it’s actually been around for centuries.

Here’s everything to know about the doctrine that’s set to spread, over the coming months.

What is nunchi?

Pronounced ‘noon-chi’, the Korean concept is explained by academic Euny Hong, in her upcoming book titled The Power of Nunchi: the Korean Secret to Happiness and Success – which lands next month.

Nunchi translates as ‘eye measure’ and, according to author Euny, it describes ‘the subtle art of gauging other people’s thoughts and feelings in order to build trust, harmony and connection’.

Euny says nunchi is a mixture of tact, perceptiveness, having a good grasp of social situations and possessing an instinctive sense of how to read a given encounter, alongside knowing how to respond to it.

In short, it’s the act of grasping what other people are thinking and learning how to anticipate their needs.

So, a lot of it comes down to gauging the moods of others.

People who have ‘quick nunchi’ are the first to pick up on the mood of the room.

But it can also apply to relationships. Those with the best nunchi can understand the feelings of their partners and friends from their body language and words. They then use these unconscious signals to make those around feel understood.

Essentially, it’s a lesson in emotional intelligence.

Having nunchi will improve social relationships and unlock greater feelings of contentment.

What’s not to like about that?

The history of nunchi

For centuries nunchi has been a crucial part of Korean life. It was first introduced to the country around 2,500 years ago, with the teachings of Confucius, and Koreans have been practicing and adapting it ever since.

In fact, one of the most common (and rather Shakespearean) phrases in Korea is ‘to have nunchi’ or ‘to have no nunchi’.

Alongside this, it’s also important in Korean communities that everyone maintains ‘kibun’ – the mood of feeling of being in a comfortable state of mind.

So nunchi can be used to sense someone’s kibun.

Expect to hear a lot more about these concepts in the coming months, especially surrounding the publication of Euny’s book this autumn.

The best ways to practice nunchi

According to the book, it’s also important to be aware of the Nunchi Observer Effect because – if you’re familiar with the concept – when you enter a room you’ll have the ability to influence and change it. So there’s a greater responsibility to be aware of when practicing it.

Nunchi aficionados will confidently trust their own first impression of someone, that is, if they’ve let it slowly develop in front of them and if they’ve kept a lookout for telltale signs that someone is not being authentic.

Nunchi helps decipher whether someone is just acting fake to look better or whether they are doing it to make a false impression, with bad intentions.

There are also benefits to using it in the workplace.

Nunchi can help someone understand whether a boss is in a good or a bad mood, and so know when to ask for certain things off the back of this.

All in all, the ancient Korean creed seems to benefit all areas of life, and it’s hard to argue with that.

MORE: This is why ‘wellness’ is so important for your overall health

MORE: The online wellness industry is an unregulated Wild West and it’s time to duck for cover

MORE: How aromatherapy can improve your scalp and hair health

Daily Fitness Challenge: Can you do high skips for 30 seconds on each leg?

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The high skip, or the runner’s skip, is a brilliant plyometric move to help improve your explosive power.

Aim for height and elevation and you will feel the burn in your glutes and legs as you oush up from the ground. 30 seconds on each leg is a tough ask. But you got this.

Our daily challenges are perfect to try at home, at the gym or in the park. They are designed to get you moving every day.

Throughout this Staying Active summer series, fitness experts Elia and Amanda – both qualified instructors at Flykick – will be on hand to show you how to do each challenge and give you their top tips.

Check back every day to see what the next challenge is – you could even film your progress to make a record of how far you’ve come.

The aim is to be active every day for six weeks over summer. Today’s challenge will test different muscle groups and help to improve your muscle performance.

These daily challenges can be done on their own, or you can include them in larger workout – it’s totally up to you. As long as you’re moving, that’s what matters.

Man doing a high skip outdoors
Aim for height and make sure to land softly. (Picture: Getty)

We know doing the same fitness routine every week can get really tedious, trying a new challenge every day will keep your fitness fresh and fun – and you might even learn some new moves.

How to do high skips

Start in a standing position.

Jump upwards using your left leg while at the same time bending your right knee and driving it upwards.

Swing your arms as you jump for extra momentum.

Aim for height, but try to land softly as you come back down, keeping a bend in your landing knee.

Try repeating the skips on one leg for 30 seconds before switching to the other leg.

I am Team GB

Toyota has teamed up with Team GB to re-launch the hugely successful participation campaign ‘I am Team GB’.

Inspired by the achievements of Team GB athletes and the amazing efforts of local community heroes, Team GB has created ‘The Nation’s Biggest Sports Day’, which will take place on the 24thAugust.

Over the weekend, there will be hundreds of free and fun activities across the country, put on by an army of volunteers; the ‘I am Team GB Games Makers’.

To Join the Team and be part of The Nation’s Biggest Sports Day sign up at: www.IAmTeamGB.com

Mum bursts into tears when her son wears his late dad’s shirt for their ‘date night’

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Mum Julia crying when her son Clayton wears his dad's old shirt
Julia started crying when she saw Clayton in the shirt (Picture: Clayton Walker)

Clayton Walker was just a baby when his passed away.

But now as a grown up, his father is still part of his life.

And to remind his mum Julia of that, he decided to wear one of his dad’s old shirts for their night out together.

Clayton filmed the moment and posted it on Twitter, showing how Julia burst into tears when she saw her son in the clothing that brought back memories of her late partner.

He posted: ‘My father passed away when I was one and I only have a few shirts of his, so I wore one for date night with my momma.’

Asking his mum to come into the room, she immediately notices the shirt says ‘aww. I love that’, fixing the collar of the shirt, before her son asks what she thinks.

She tells him he looks good and he notices she is crying.

As the pair hug, Clayton responds: ‘Momma, come here. I love you.’

When the post went viral, he added another video of them dancing together and said his mum is his ‘best friend’.

People loved the sweet video and responded by sharing some of the ways they remember their loved ones who have died.

One said: ‘I lost my dad right when I was about to turn 16, I felt this.

‘I wear my dads button downs all the time even tho he was a 2xl. we make that shit WURK.’

Another added: ‘My dad drowned when I was 13. I don’t have shirts of his but I have his favorite hat and I wear it on special occasions brother!!! Hats off to you and your family respect.’

Others talked about how smelling a certain cologne brings back memories.

What a beautiful idea.

MORE: Daily Fitness Challenge: Can you do high skips for 30 seconds on each leg?

MORE: This gym-hopping workout is the bar crawl for fitness lovers

Kitten trying to find help for her abandoned siblings gets her head stuck in the fence

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Kitten trying to find help for her abandoned siblings gets her head stuck in the fence
Kitten trying to find help for her abandoned siblings gets her head stuck in the fence (Picture: Alley Cat Rescue)

This kitten had managed to get its little white noggin stuck in a small hole while trying to look out.

Rescuers sprang into action to get it out but soon after realised it wasn’t alone.

The kitten’s siblings were also abandoned and awaiting rescue. One of the weakest of the litter needed urgent attention after her eyes were sealed shut due to infections.

Kittens hiding behind plants
The kitty was trying to alert someone to help the litter (Picture: Alley Cat Rescue)

They were found by folks from Alley Cat Rescue who worked on a trap-neuter-return (TNP) project to help cats in the North Hollywood neighbourhood in L.A, U.S.

Rescuers provided round-the-clock care for the litter and paid extra close attention to Meeps.

She got stronger and started snuggling up with her siblings every night while cosying up to her caretakers after each meal.

Kittens sleeping
Cuties (Picture: Alley Cat Rescue)

The cats started becoming stronger as they began to recuperate.

‘It took a village to get these kitties healthy,’ rescuer Desiree Stapley told Love Meow.

Kittens cuddling together
They were abandoned by the mum (Picture: Alley Cat Rescue)

‘They were very ill and required multiple rounds of antibiotics for prolonged upper respiratory infections, eye ointment, eye drops, GI meds, probiotics, and treatment for multiple parasites.

‘Meeps was the smallest and sickest and we did not know if she would survive, let alone see again.

‘This adorable sweet girl comes looking for love in the right places. She rolls around on your computer keyboard, purring until you can’t resist.’

Meeps the kitten on top of caretaker's head as he sleeps
Meeps is the smallest in the litter (Picture: Alley Cat Rescue)

Her siblings Bear and Prue who are all three months old continue to grow with her.

Meeps the kitten gets bigger
Look at Meeps now! (Picture: Alley Cat Rescue)

Though Meeps is the smallest in size, she still purrs her heart out and her eyes are now bright and glistening.

They just need a forever home to complete their journey to safety.

MORE: Tiny kitten given CPR after falling asleep in the washing machine

MORE: Eight kittens were found abandoned in a cemetery and now they’ve been given gothic writer names

MORE: Wobbly kitten who can’t keep her balance is looking for a loving home

OAP influencer makes outfits out of rubbish – and earns £400 per piece

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Debra in some of her outfits
Debra in some of her outfits (Pictures: PA Real Life)

Looking at your bin, you probably think the paper towels and empty loo rolls are just rubbish – but Debra Rapoport saw them as potential outfits and accessories.

The 74-year-old influencer has spent five decades turning scavenged scrap metal and rubbish into ‘wearable artwork’ – and now she makes up to £400 per piece.

Concerned about saving the planet ‘before it became cool,’ Debra, a textile artist from New York, USA, said: ‘I’ve spent 50 years working with what some people would call “junk”.

‘When I’m walking along the street and I see a rag cloth or some copper wire, it speaks to me. I pick the material up and we play with each other and get to know each other and the end result is one of my creations.’

Debra credits her late mother Faye Rapoport with opening her eyes to the world of art.

‘Our mother encouraged us to rummage through her clothes and explore our different looks – she thought it was far less frivolous than dressing up a doll,’ she said.

‘She really was ahead of her time. She let us choose our own outfits and make our own decisions about what kind of education we wanted to pursue.

‘Of course, growing up, my education was filled with drawing, painting and design classes – then I fell in love with textiles.’

Debra showcasing her look (PA Real Life/Collect)
Debra showcasing her look (Picture: PA Real Life)

It was while studying for her master’s degree in textile design at the University of California (UC), Berkeley, USA, that Debra became involved with the ‘wearable art’ movement – creating fine art that can be worn, either as clothing or jewellery.

‘My time there was invaluable. All of a sudden I learnt that education didn’t have to mean intimidation and I started creating sustainable art out of reused materials,’ she said

After graduating from the UC Berkeley, she stayed there for eight years, teaching textiles and personal adornment, at UC Davis, California, before returning to her hometown of New York in 1979.

Since then, Debra has thrown herself into creating individually designed pieces of art that can be “adorned on the body” – gaining plaudits for her work, which has featured in the costume collection at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Now, Debra profits from her artistic endeavours, as she regularly sells her creations for up to £400.

Explaining how she makes her staple ‘paper towel hats,’ she said: ‘First, I fold a length of three sheets of paper towel three times, to create narrow strips.

Debra showcasing her look (PA Real Life/Collect)
Debra makes clothes and accessories out of whatever she can find (Picture: PA Real Life/Collect)

‘Then, with about five strips I begin to coil them around, holding them in place with PVA glue to create a conical shape.

‘From there you can get narrower and create a conical shape or build out and create a flared shape.

‘I began displaying a few of my different hats in a gallery in New York – the Neue – and people started to pick them up quite frequently, paying from £200 to £400.

‘I always said I wouldn’t go commercial by setting up an online store or anything like that… then I joined Instagram and people started buying pieces on there.’

Debra’s Instagram account now has over 30,000 followers and it has offered a new way for fashion-lovers to buy her pieces.

Debra at a workshop (PA Real Life/Collect)
Debra at a workshop (Picture: PA Real Life/Collect)

‘I like to think of it as ‘me-commerce’ instead of e-commerce,’ she added.

She has also enjoyed becoming an ‘Advanced Style Influencer’ – the name given to senior influencers.

‘People have got in touch and told me that I’ve given them the courage to step out and dress themselves in a way that truly reflects who they are,’ she said, proudly.

‘Stepping into the closet each day and deciding, “Who am I going to be today?” is my equivalent of meditation.

‘Making that decision, choosing how you are going to be seen by the world, you become a creator and that can be a very healing process.’

So firm is Debra’s belief in the meditative power of individual dressing, that she has devised a personal mantra that she calls ‘the four Ts’.

She said: ‘The four Ts are – truth – we all know our truth, we just have to look inside ourselves and find it.

‘Trust – whatever we find coming from inside us, we have to trust that it is our truth.

‘Tolerance – we have to accept whatever we discover our own truth to be, not pick it apart and judge it.

‘Tenderness – when we put our truth out into the world, we have to be respectful of our own truth and other people’s too.’

Now Debra is hoping to share her philosophy worldwide and is holding regular workshops on how to use personal style to achieve inner happiness.

‘The world has become such a small place – it’s really quite incredible,’ she said.

‘I’m travelling, exploring different places and countries, showing people how to be less wasteful and stop buying into a throwaway culture.

‘If I can help people express themselves and be more conscientious with this planet we live on along the way – well that’s something, isn’t it?’

MORE: Kitten trying to find help for her abandoned siblings gets her head stuck in the fence

MORE: Mum bursts into tears when her son wears his late dad’s shirt for their ‘date night’


Man writes 85-metre ‘will you marry me’ sign across the beach to propose

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Large sign on beach saying will you marry me?
Stefan Cahill wanted to pop the question to his partner, Heidi Mason, but he wanted to make sure it was memorable (Picture: SWNS)

Proposing to your significant other is hard, we get it.

All the best ideas have gone, there’s lots of pressure to get it *right*and it has to be meaningful.

At least farmers have it easy, they slap on those all-magical three words on a cow or they can stick the ring on the udder and hey ho, job’s done.

One not so bashful boyfriend didn’t have the most original idea but he made it a grand one.

Stefan Cahill took his girlfriend Heidi Mason to a beach holiday to Somerset where he decided to propose.

He called on sand artist Simon Beck to write in huge letters ‘will you marry me?’ – stretching 85 metres across Brean Down.

Stefan, from Wythall, Birmingham, then took Heidi to a vantage point so she could read the message before getting down on one knee and offering up a ring.

And don’t worry, she said yes.

Stefan Cahill pops the big question to Heidi Mason with some help from a giant message drawn in the sand at Brean Down.
Can’t miss it (Picture: burnham-on-sea.com / SWNS)

‘We’ve been coming to Brean on holiday for years and I’ve been following Simon’s amazing sand art designs for a long time. We always love them,’ explained Stefan.

‘I always like to do different and original things, so when I got thinking about how to propose to Heidi I came up with the idea of getting Simon’s art involved.

‘I contacted him over social media to see if he’d be interested and he said he’s happy to get involved.’

Sand artist in the midst of writing will you marry me on beach
Simon the sand artist gets to work (it took him a whole day) (Picture: burnham-on-sea.com / SWNS)

Heidi had no idea about what Stefan had planned and needed quite a lot of persuading to go up onto Brean Down for a walk on a windy day.

‘She knew nothing!’ added Stefan.

‘Heidi was quite emotional as we watched the wording appear in the middle of the heart design on the beach below — it was a special moment.’

Sign in sand saying will you marry me
We hope there are no other Heidis in the neighbourhood (Picture: burnham-on-sea.com / SWNS)

The couple were impressed by the sand artist who spent all day creating the design.

‘It was just perfect and I can’t thank him enough!’

Heidi added: ‘I am a little bit speechless — I had no clue at all. It was such an amazing way to propose!

‘We’ve been coming to Brean for years so it has a special place in our hearts – this was just wonderful.’

The couple are now planning their wedding.

Perhaps the decor will include some sand sculptures?

MORE: Man proposes to his girlfriend by tattooing ‘Will you marry meow?’ on his bum

MORE: Man proposes to nurse who treated him in the hospital room where they first met

MORE: Man proposes to his girlfriend 30ft under the Caribbean Sea

Edinburgh Fringe has a race problem

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Travis Abalza at the Edinburgh Fringe 2019 performing their show Burgerz
At times, Edinburgh felt… how do I put this? So white (Picture: Dorothea Tuch)

Edinburgh Fringe is the largest international performance festival in the world.

The city’s streets burst with creativity, possibility, and large amounts of choice but, in some ways, it can feel like Edinburgh Fringe is stuck in its past and refusing to reflect its present.

This year, I went to Edinburgh with my first full length theatre show, Burgerz. Although it has received positive reviews, had sold out audiences and I’ve been able to watch so many artists I love work their magic on stage in just an hour, my experience felt incomplete.

At times, Edinburgh felt… how do I put this? SO white. Like, really white. Like, I can’t quite actually comprehend how white, kind of white. Not even mild spice on Nando’s kind of white – more like ‘what is Nandos?’ kind of white.

I’ve been living in the UK all my life, working in the arts for five years and before that I had a brief cameo at a Russell Group university. I am not new to feeling like places are just for white people.

To be more accurate, I am not new to the experience of feeling isolated due to race. The arts, education systems, performance, theatre world – all of these spaces have a very prominent race problem.

So I was prepared for Edinburgh, or thought I was. The population of the city explodes during Fringe season. The vast scale, size and variety of the festival was shocking yet at some shows I still spotted only one other black person in the crowd.

The festival boasts an international array of cross-cultural arts, yet there was a few black posters in a sea of white.

Spending a month in Edinburgh with the trials of doing daily shows, press, reviews, late nights, it wasn’t my work that exhausted me, rather the elongated feeling of not seeing others that look like you occupy public space.

The nod you do to another black person when you cross them in the street was never as loud as it was in Edinburgh. It was almost like: ‘I thought I’d be kidnapped and sent to Get Out – The Sequel without knowing, but thank God you are passing me in the street – it’s just a homogenous arts festival after all.’

I’ve heard so many people of all races admit and exclaim about the Fringe’s race problem almost as if it is an unchanged characteristic. That upsets me. It is not enough to just name the problem –  where is the urgency from racially privileged artists and stakeholders to change it?

Travis Abalanza at the Edinburgh Fringe 2019 performing Burgerz
I wonder why the responsibility to solve arts’ racial problem is always placed on those already exhausted by the issue? (Picture: Dorothea Tuch)

I do not believe the problem starts in the city. The arts has an access problem loud and clear, the rent prices of Edinburgh and the cost of bringing work here means that for many artists it is not possible.

Yet beyond this I believe there is a culture of accepting that the whiteness of the festival is part of the package, and refusing to see how this is a disservice to culture.

Of course there are people and schemes trying to rectify this. Comedy collectives like FOC It UP are addressing white, male aspects of comedy by creating a night of comedic excellence with a lineup of Femmes of Colour.

Or notable initiatives like Fringe Of Colour, started by Jess Brough: a festival-wide database and ticket scheme that lists all the shows in Edinburgh written, performed by or starring artists of colour. They also partner with the artists and venues to offer free tickets to people of colour to see the shows.

Initiatives like this bring the whiteness of the festival into question, and aim to create important remedies to the effects whiteness can have. Personally, I’ve valued seeing the audience members brought via Fringe of Colour to my shows, hearing their responses, and their excitement at attending.

Not only is this not enough, however, I wonder why the responsibility to solve arts’ racial problem, and the Fringe’s in particular, is always placed on those already exhausted by the issue? And more often than not, forcing people of colour to do it without financial support from those causing the problem.

I am not saying all buildings and institutions are not trying but it certainly does not feel urgent. Organisers on their own cannot solve the racial gap in this festival, it needs to be a city wide and sector wide commitment, treated as a top priority.

Fringe of Colour should not need to fundraise to create their scheme – the festival and institutions should recognise what giving Fringe of Colour funding, time and resource could do to help solve a problem.

The festival should hold public discussion, forum and trackable commitments to what is being done to lessen the racial equity gap, and the whiteness of the festival must stop being used as a quick passing comment, and rather an admittance of failure, and one that we all have a stake in solving.

Because when a festival is not serving everyone, does not include everyone, has an issue as glaring as this, then it is failing.

So much of culture, the arts, what we see in performance and live work derives from the history and present practices of people of colour and when a festival does not reflect this it cannot be seen as accurately reflecting what the art form is.

Yesterday I saw OUT by Rachael Young with Malik Nashad Sharpe, a black queer dance piece exploring queerness and the Caribbean. The (full) audience and I were floored, stunned, and transfixed by such beautiful work.

I left the room wishing I could see more, watch others, be spoiled by a festival with choice – and unfortunately, at this moment in time, it is not the case.

MORE: How I survive Edinburgh Fringe

MORE: We can no longer accept LGBTQ solidarity that stops at a TV screen, stage or meme

MORE: Vagina blimp to fly after illustration of female genitals banned at Edinburgh Fringe Festival

How to have anal sex that’s safe, pain-free and enjoyable

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couple in bed
Make sure to use lots of lube (Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)

Anal sex can be great when done correctly.

If you’re wanting to give it a go, there are a few things you need to know first to make sure it’s enjoyable.

This might seem pretty obvious, but it’s important that you’re relaxed if you’re going to be having anal sex.

There are small muscles around your anus that can be very tight if you’re not relaxed. If you go straight into anal sex while these muscles and your anal sphincter are tight, anal sex will be painful and you may also risk anal tearing.

So, warm up and take your time. Practice some deep breathing and lead up to it with your partner.

A relaxing massage might help, and plenty of foreplay to get you in the mood.

Sex and relationships expert Annabelle Knight says preparation is key – and toys and fingers will help before full penetration.

She tells Metro.co.uk: ‘The trick to amazing anal play is preparation.

‘Whether it’s a toy, fingers or a penis going in there you need to make sure you take your time.

‘Invest in a progressive butt plug or anal dilator set for warming up and ALWAYS use a good quality anal lube (if you’re using toys that aren’t metal or glass make sure it’s water-based lubricant).

‘Apply the lube to yourself and whatever you’re inserting and take it slowly.

‘Allow time for your body to get used to the full sensation before moving on and if at any point it hurts, stop!’

It’s so important that you don’t rush anal sex, because taking your time and making sure you are relaxed and enjoying the sensations are the key to having good, pain-free anal.

This goes for when penetration is used, too – take it slowly. Do not force anything up there. The anus is a very delicate part of the body and any fast movements can cause pain and even small tears.

As Annabelle said, use lube – and lots of it – and understand that if you are going to have anal sex, it might be messy.

Sex and dating illustration
It can be very enjoyable if you take it slowly and safely (Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)

Use a condom and put a towel down. Don’t be embarrassed if you do see a bit of poo. Everyone knows where poop comes from, so nobody should be shocked when it happens when putting something in there.

You might feel some discomfort, and this isn’t something to worry about. But you shouldn’t feel pain.

Annabelle says: ‘A little discomfort is to be expected at first but not full on pain.

‘Combining anal penetration with vaginal play provides a more filling sensation (great if your partners on the smaller side) and excellent for g spot stimulation.

‘If you’re unsure about whether you’ll like it with a partner try it on your own first with toys to make sure, that way if it’s a definite no you can say upfront.’

If anal really, really hurts, stop. You are not prepared or relaxed enough, and continuing could do some damage.

You can always try again that same night, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself if it doesn’t work out for you the first time.

You have all the time in the world to make it work.

But remember, though some people love anal, for others, it’s just not for them. And that’s okay.

If you don’t like anal, don’t allow anyone to make you feel like you have to do it to please them.

Do not do something that you find no pleasure in doing. There are always lots of sexual things you can try – and if anal is a no-go for you, that’s completely okay.

But as mentioned, it can be great. As long as it is performed slowly, safely, carefully and correctly, those people who enjoy it will have a blast.

Annabelle adds: ‘Anal play is great because we all have a butt! It’s not genital, identity or sexuality dependent!’

MORE: Nine women open up about what anal sex really feels like

MORE: Men and women open up about the times they faked an orgasm

Mum reveals how bulk buying allows her to feed family of four for 76p per meal

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Angela Webster with ehr kids and some of the food she cooks from a musclefood hamper
Angela can cook up 68 portions from her £70 shop (Picture: Angela Webster)

Feeding hungry kids can sometimes feel like an endless (and expensive) task but this mum has figured out how to give her children delicious meals for under £1 per person.

Angels Webster started to change the way she shopped when she gave up work to look after her two youngest kids, Daisy, seven and Jake, five.

Now relying on one wage from her husband Chris, she knew she needed to cut the household budget.

Now she does one weekly shop to buy staples, bulk buys her meat, prepares a meal plan and uses up leftovers so she can cook up 68 meals for under £70.

Angela, 41, said: ‘I knew that when I gave up my job to look after the children, I would have to make some changes to the way we shop and spend our money.

‘The easiest way to save the pennies is to start with the grocery shop. I always plan meals a week in advance then write down a shopping list covering everything I need to buy, from breakfast to dinner and snacks in between.

Angela Webster with her musclefood hamper
Angela with a typical hamper (Picture: Angela Webster)

‘This means we won’t be swayed by deals or food we don’t need. We will sometimes travel further afield to a different supermarket if I see a really good deal advertised.’

Angela made the decision to give up her job after Daisy was born so the family could save on childcare costs.

As well as cutting back, Angela set up a number of ‘side-hustles’ to top up their monthly income.

She set up a blog called adventuresinwebsterland.com, along with making money through completing online surveys and focus groups.

All of the money Angela earns, along with any money left over from the weekly shopping budget is put into a pot which helps pay for holidays and house renovation.

Now she plans a list of meals and lets the children choose from a list of 14 meals, including staples such as Spaghetti Bolognese and Shepherd’s Pie.

Her thrifty shopping and culinary skills means that she’s able to cook up 17 different meals – 68 portions and leftovers – using £62 of musclefood.com meat.

Angeld Webster preparing a stir fry with musclefood hamper
She creates a meal plan to make it as cheap as possible (Picture: Angela Webster)

Angela added: ‘I will pre-prepare vegetables on a Sunday, and then freeze them for use throughout the week. This means that the time I spend cooking is reduced and I have everything I need for the day to day meals.

‘The quality of musclefood meat was great and having the hamper arrive all at once really made me think about planning meals. I made dishes I wouldn’t have thought were possible on our budget.

‘We do have a pay-day takeaway treat which we all always look forward too. Homemade pizzas are also a really great way to get everyone involved and feels like a treat.

‘I’m really conscious about food waste and use apps which put me in contact with people in my local area who will take food off my hands which we won’t use.

‘I also know that being so frugal with things like electricity is not only helping save money, but also helping the environment.’

Angela's money saving recipes

Chinese Pork Tenderloin with Stir Fry Veg and Noodles (serves four)
Musclefood Pork Loin flavoured with Chinese Five Spice £2.47
Egg Noodles 55p
Veg Stir Fry 95p
Mushrooms 67p
Oil 2p
Light Soy Sauce 5p
Total for four: £4.71
Per Head: £1.17

Carbonara (serves four)
Musclefood Low Fat Back Bacon Medallions £1.97
Spaghetti 23p
Milk 5p
Cheddar Cheese 52p
Medium Eggs 26p
Oil 2p
Total for four: £3.05
Per Head: 76p

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Rice (serves four)
Musclefood Chicken Breasts £4
Pineapple Chunks 69p
Cornflour 2p
Onions 26p
Soy Sauce 5p
Peppers 96p
Tomato Puree 2p
Garlic 5p
Rice 40p
Total for four: £6.45
Per Head: £1.61

Toad in the Hole with Carrots and Green Beans (serves four)
Musclefood Extra Lean Sausages £3
Plain Flour 8p
Medium Eggs 26p
Milk 22p
Oil 2p
Carrots 18p
Green Beans 77p
Total for four: £4.53
Per Head: £1.13

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Cadbury is launching a limited edition chocolate orange flavour Twirl

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Cadbury chocolate orange twirl
Yes, that is WITH ORANGE (Picture: Cadbury)

Attention chocolate fans – a new flavour of the Twirl bar is coming next month.

Yes, Cadbury has decided to bring the classic combination of orange and chocolate to the flakey but coated bar.

You’ve got the layer-y goodness like a Flake without the mess but now with that citrus kick. It sounds dreamy.

It was posted on Facebook group Money Saver Online and fans were pretty excited to hear that it’s being launched next month.

One said: ‘This is heaven! Cadbury, I love you!’

Another added: ‘This is peak confectionary. Never will there be again a more divine and perfect pairing of flavours. Once I have tried this, I can die knowing I lived.’

The bad news is that it is a limited edition flavour so make sure you catch it before it disappears again.

The bar is already available in Australia but this is the first time you can pick up the UK version.

It seems that they actually get all the best Twirl variations as the Aussies have already had a caramel version of the bar.

Cadbury remain pretty tight-lipped about the launch but confirmed it is coming to our shores.

A spokesperson said: ‘We knew it would be difficult to keep the news of the limited edition Cadbury Twirl Orange under wraps as people would be as excited about the product as we are.

‘We can’t share much more at the moment, but watch this space for more information as we get closer to the launch.’

Ok, stop drooling and start your countdown for next month.

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