Men's Health Australia November 2018

Right now the MH office is collectively wearing a party hat slightly askew and congratulating ourselves on blowing out our candles with a single puff. The reason? This issue marks the 21st birthday of Men’s Health in Australia. We thought long and hard about who to put on the cover of this special anniversary issue. But in the end, there could only be one man. Arnold Schwarzengger isn’t on the cover purely because he owns biceps the size of beachballs. Or due to the pivotal role he played in bringing gym culture into the mainstream. He hasn’t nabbed poll position just because he starred in the best action movieofalltime(Terminator II: Judgment Day).Oreven because he famously insisted the best way to stay healthy was “humping and pumping”. Yes, there’s the fact that he conquered…

For a certain type of gym-goer, the sweat patch on their T-shirt is a badge of pride – the surest sign of a workout well done. For others, however, it gives way to a creeping sense of insecurity that their fitness isn’t up to scratch. Quit beating yourself up, MC, because sweating is unequivocally a very good thing. “Perspiration is simply a function of your body’s heat-regulating system,” explains physiologist and performance coach Tom Middlebrough. “The more you sweat, the more physiologically efficient your body is – so relish it.” In fact, the burpee-induced puddle on the mat is also an indication that you’ve triggered excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), which means your metabolism will remain fired up long after your workout. Even so, we appreciate that returning to the office…

SPINACH This staple veg is rich in magnesium, an essential electrolyte – along with potassium and sodium – that needs replenishing after your workout. WATERMELON Studies have found low-fibre, water-packed fruits can hydrate the body twice as well as H2O. Watermelon stands out, with an impressive 92 per cent water make-up. COCONUT WATER A glass packs around 600mg of blood pressure-regulating potassium. Plus, its 5mg of natural sugar make it a worthy alternative to sweetened sports drinks.…

Every time I go for a run I get a stitch halfway through. Why? Deep breaths, now. Stitches are more common for people who take shallow ones. They’re just a spasm of your diaphragm. OK, but what do I do about it? Press two fingers upwards at the direct point of pain for 10 seconds. Breathe and keep pressing towards your ribs. Stretch, too. Most stitches are on the right, so raise your right hand and lean to the left. That’s better. Will it come back when I start jogging again? It shouldn’t. Try breathing from your belly to take in more air. Thanks, mate. What can I do before heading out in future? Avoid high-fat foods pre-run; they take longer to digest. No eggs and avo, then? Not pre. Follow this formula: Stephen Adjaidoo, running coach HOTOGRAPHY: DAVID ABRAHAMS, JOBE LAWRENSON…

It’s a tempting option. And, as hair loss affects 25 per cent of men before hitting 30, you’re in good company weighing up the pros and cons. There’s no doubt that going under the knife can yield successful results: “Follicles transplanted from the back of your scalp to thinning areas still ‘believe’ they’re living there, so won’t be subject to balding,” explains dermatologist Dr David Fenton. However, it’ll hit you where it hurts: your wallet. Prices range from $7,000–$30,000, which is the amount Wayne Rooney reportedly paid for his rug. It’s worth looking into cheaper options first. Lotions such as Regaine can prevent further hair loss, but not all actually encourage regrowth. Or, you could try systemic hormone tablets, which have proven effective for returfing patchy areas. “They block the conversion…

REST HARD “If you’re training to excess, the nutrients your hair needs to stay healthy will be directed elsewhere. Give yourself – and your locks – a well-earned break.” EAT STEAK “Quality protein is essential for hair growth. Steak is packed with iron, deficiencies of which can trigger balding. It’s also delicious, which is a bonus.” GO NATURAL “Hair dyes will prevent any lotions you’re using from working properly. Washing your hair more often won’t help either. Highlights are out, anyway.”…