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Friday, December 4, 2020

From 0 to 5: Beginner Pullup Tips From US Marine Michael Eckert

Stop dodging that pullup bar. Even if you haven’t completed a single pullup in 20 years, it’s never too late to try again. And while it may take some time, these beginner pullup tips from US Marine and Youtube pullup sensation, Michael Eckert, will help get you back above the bar.

Beginner Pullup Tip #1: Grip Strength

Grip strength is crucial for being able to pull yourself up. Unfortunately, tapping away at the computer keyboard or phone screen is not going to help. To improve your grip strength, Eckert suggests three different workouts––farmers walks, pinch plate holds and dead hangs.

Beginner Pullup Tip #2: Elbow Flexion

If you want to be able to pull yourself up, you need to work on your elbow flexion. This means working on the biceps, brachialis and brachioradialis––three muscles that are dominant when it comes to the pulling motion. To work these muscles, Eckert suggests two moves––the bicep curl and the plate pull.

Beginner Pullup Tip #3: Isometric Contractions

As Eckert describes it, an isometric contraction happens when your muscle is contracted and under resistance, but not lengthening or shortening. This type of training is great for pullup strength as it develops your weaker areas and requires both bicep and forearm strength.

Beginner Pullup Tip #4: Negatives

If you’re not at the point where you can pull yourself above the bar, lowering yourself down from the bar is a great place to start. Simply step on something to help get your chin above the bar and then slowly lower yourself down to the ground. Aim for seven seconds. Strictly focusing on the eccentric contraction––the lowering down phase––still works the same muscle groups and stabilizers as a regular pullup. 

Beginner Pullup Tip #5: Confidence

Getting above the bar for the first time can feel like a daunting task. But to flip the switch in your brain, you just need to cheat a little bit. A rubber resistance band can be tied onto the bar and will give you the extra boost needed to get over the bar. This move gets your body comfortable with the full pullup motion and boosts your confidence for when you’re ready to ditch the training bands.

Check out Eckert’s complete beginner pullup tips tutorial above and get to work!

pinky-pullups

Power Up Your Pullups With This Small Tweak

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Sharpen Your Style With These 2020 Winter Fashion Looks

A subdued holiday season is the perfect excuse for these laid-back winter layers: classic wool sweaters, the return of the longsleeve polo, and one damn good tweed blazer.

 

Get the Look (above): Canali Armure Flat-front Wool Trousers and Blueberry Marl Turtleneck [$530, $695; canali.com]; Dunhill Houndstooth Half Wrap Jacket [$2,095; dunhill.com]

Winter fashion preview for 2020-21
Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal

Todd Snyder Harris Tweed Olive Plaid Blazer [Price upon request; toddsnyder.com]; Belstaff Engineered Roll Neck [$295; belstaff.com]; Tod’s Pants [$795; tods.com]; Ermenegildo Zegna XXX Belt [$495; zegna.com]

Winter fashion preview for 2020-21
Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal

Golden Goose Peacoat Jacket [$1,075; goldengoose.com]; Polo Ralph Lauren Chinos and Roll-Neck Sweater [$268, $398; ralphlauren.com]; Johnston & Murphy Cody Wingtip Zip Boot [$189; johnstonmurphy.com]

AKNVAS Alice Dress [$595; aknvas.com]; Mavette Boots [mavette.com]

Winter fashion preview for 2020-21
Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal

Calvin Klein Tank Top [$32; macys.com]; Ben Sherman Canvas Trousers [$99; bensherman.com]

Winter fashion preview for 2020-21
Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal

Baracuta Crew-Neck Jumper [$119; baracuta.com]; Mavi Johnny Pants [$98; mavi.com]

Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal
Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal

Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series SPB167 [$1,000; seikoluxe.com]; Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight Navy Blue on fabric strap [$3,375; tudorwatch.com]; Breitling Chronomat B01 42 with Stainless Steel Case, Black Dial on Stainless Steel Rouleaux Bracelet [$8,100; breitling.com]

Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal
Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal

Tod’s Brown Polo Shirt [$545; tods.com]; AG Jeans The Tellis Jeans [$198; agjeans.com]

Winter fashion preview for 2020-21
Greg Vaughan for Men's Journal

Salvatore Ferragamo Dune Wool Sweater and Brown Pinstripe Wool Blend Pants [$760, $790; ferragamo.com]



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Red Bull Magnitude Is the First-Ever All-Women's Big-Wave Surf Contest

This was set to be an important winter for women’s big wave surfing. The skill, experience and numbers of women charging heavy water––combined with a movement for true equality around the world––is the ideal combo swell for females in the sport.

Red Bull had announced Queen of the Bay––the first all-women, big-wave event––at the famed Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu, to be run “on call” through the fall. A global pandemic had other plans. At the end of the summer, event directors made the decision to pull the plug out of safety concerns.

Not to be deterred, organizers went back to the drawing board and came back with an alternative event––Red Bull Magnitude––a submission-based contest to retain the opportunity for ladies to compete in big waves this winter.

Red Bull selected two dozen female chargers and invited them to push their own limits with a $40,000 purse on the line and film crews stationed in Hawaii––specifically on-call to shoot the ladies when the Pacific Ocean says it’s time.

Keala Kennley paddles into a bomb.
Keala Kennley paddles into a bomb. Ha'a Keaulana

“This is a new kind of contest, and one that I think is uniquely positioned to highlight the best up- and-comers in the world of surfing,” says North Shore surfer Makani Adric, who has been surfing Waimea Bay since she was 16 years old. “The reality is that limitations around traditional big-wave contests don’t really allow them to show who might be surfing at the highest level for an entire season – rather, they only showcase one moment in time and make it hard for newcomers to get noticed. This opens all that up and changes the game.”

Among the higher profile competitors are Keala Kennelly and Paige Alms. Kennelly is a former World Tour surfer who has pioneered sizeable surf around the globe for the last ten years, while Alms won both the Red Bull Big Wave Awards Womens Biggest Paddle-In of the Year and the Jaws Big Wave Championship last year. But there are also a handful of underground chargers who will have the opportunity to take the $25,000 Overall Performance, as well as Runner-Up, Best Ride and Biggest Wave category ($5,000 each).

Wrenna Delgado, Remi Nealon, Raquel Heckert, Sheila Lee, and Siri Masterson are just a few of the ladies that will be competing this winter.
Wrenna Delgado, Remi Nealon, Raquel Heckert, Sheila Lee, and Siri Masterson are just a few of the ladies that will be competing this winter. Courtesy of Red Bull

Notably absent from the list is Maya Gabeira, who has dedicated herself to riding superhuman waves at Nazaré, in Portugal.

The judges are three-time Surfer Poll winner, Rochelle Ballard; the first woman in history to surf Pipe, Betty DePolito; multiple XXL award winner, Mark Healey; and elite waterman, Kai Lenny.

The competitors will have from December 1 to February 28 to hunt down the biggest drops throughout Hawaii. And a massive Northwest swell has already poured into Hawaii to start the show.

Andrea Moller

The 9 Women in Surf You Need to Know

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Study Gauges Mental, Physical Toll of Divorce

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Both men and women reported poorer physical and mental health than the norm for the general population. That was particularly true if their divorce was messy -- involving fights over kids, hostile communication or other conflicts.



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Smile When You Get a COVID Vaccine, It'll Hurt Less

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That genuine smile, which brings up the corners of the mouth and creates crow's feet around the eyes, can reduce the pain of a needle injection by up to 40%, and also blunt a stressful needle-related physiological response by lowering the heart rate, the researchers said.



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Lockdowns May Be Limiting Kids' Asthma Attacks

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Boston Children's Hospital's emergency department (ED) observed a steep decline in asthma-related emergency visits last spring. That coincided with a surge of coronavirus cases amid a lockdown ordered by Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker on March 24.



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These Mapping Apps Will Keep You From Getting Lost in the Outdoors

As a nation stifled by close quarters, people are yearning to stretch their legs and expand their horizons. It’s no wonder outdoor exploration is booming. But, consequently, more and more people are getting lost, straining the resources of search and rescue operations. For instance, Colorado’s Lake County witnessed search and rescue call volumes increased by 300 percent, and similar numbers have been reported across the country. Many of these calls could have been easily avoided if just one simple tool was present: a map.

 

 

In today’s high-tech world, staying found is easier than ever thanks to a range of state-of-the-art topographic maps that are available at your fingertips—all thanks to navigation apps. Don’t worry if you’re in desolate wilderness: You can access these  with or without cell service.

Backcountry recreation

Why Avalanche Safety Education Is More Important Than Ever

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The Top Navigation Apps to Keep You From Getting Lost in the Outdoors

Gaia GPS
Gaia GPS Courtesy Image

Gaia GPS

Commonly used by firefighters, search and rescue teams, and professional mountain guides, Gaia provides trusted offline topographical and satellite maps for any scale of outdoor adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a major mountaineering expedition, tracking your speed and distance stats at the local ski hill, or searching for nearby snowshoeing trails, this app is built to keep you safe and on track to meet your goals.

Gaia GPS does offer offline maps and navigation tools for free, but the premium version—$40 per year—includes several hi-tech features geared toward responsible winter backcountry travel. The app allows users to create custom touring maps, plan routes, and quickly mark newly discovered pillow fields on the fly. Additionally, Gaia GPS uses slope angle shading and satellite imagery to scout potential avalanche terrain and slide paths, and help you find the deepest powder by applying 24-, 48-, and 72-hour NOAA-forecasted snow-depth overlays.

Unique selling points:

  • Access slope angles maps and satellite imagery to stay clear of avalanche terrain
  • Snow depth overlays help users find the best snow
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Topo Maps+
Topo Maps+ Courtesy Image

Topo Maps+

This app is built for outdoors enthusiasts looking to venture deep into the backcountry; as far away from cell signal as possible. Topo Maps+ combines mapping resources from USGS Topo Maps, National Geographic Trails Illustrated Maps, Satellite Map, and more, to create an efficient navigation service that can be used virtually anywhere.

Bear

How to Stay 'Bear Aware' While Out in the Wilderness

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Similar to other mapping apps, Topo Maps+ provides a free subscription that allows users to download maps for offline use, set unlimited waypoints along customizable trails, and record stats. A premium membership—costing just $20 per year—is recommended to be fully prepared for any backcountry travel. Paying members are given the ability to print any custom map. Additionally, Topo Maps+ tracks progress without recording your trek, so questions like: have we toured long enough to justify taking a snack break? Using trail segments along with GPS tracking allows users to easily answer these questions.

Unique selling points

  • Access to the gold standard in worldwide topographic maps
  • Ability to print maps before you head out
LEARN MORE
AllTrails+
AllTrails+ Courtesy Image

AllTrails+

AllTrails+ makes exploration more predictable. This mapping app allows users to plug in their exact location and explore over 100,000 curated trail maps with reviews, photos, and activity recordings logged by an active community of roughly 20 million adventurers. Filter trails by length, rating, and difficulty level to discover great views that are uniquely catered to your preferences.

Aside from adding a social element to backcountry travel, AllTrails+ premium membership—$30 per year—offers a handful of unique features that could come in handy on any winter backcountry outing. For instance, AllTrails+ provides access to off-route notifications to keep users on track in case they deviate from the planned route. The app also comes equipped with a nifty safety feature called “Lifeline.” This feature helps you share trip details with designated safety contacts, including sending status updates, and alerts if you haven’t returned by the set finishing time. In this case, AllTrails+ will send out an alert message with your last known location.

Unique selling points

  • Instantly notify designated safety contacts if things don’t go as planned
  • Off-route notifications help users stay on track
LEARN MORE

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Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Family: One Man’s Quest to Stay Active

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Rheumatoid arthritis can make it hard to stay active. Andy Pendergrass of Louisiana shares how he keeps his athletic dreams alive.



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Baby Girl Born From Embryo Frozen for 27 Years

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The baby's birth broke the record for the longest-frozen embryo to result in a live birth, which was held by her older sister, Emma.



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Thursday, December 3, 2020

7 Simple Ways to Stay Healthy Over the Holidays

This article was produced in partnership with Suntory ALL-FREE

For folks trying to stay fit and healthy, the holidays can threaten to derail good eating habits and workout regimens. The never-ending smorgasbord of treats and meals can challenge even the most disciplined among us. But if you have the dogged determination to smash out 100 wall balls in a row or train for a brutal obstacle course race, you can just as easily sidestep the greatest holiday traps. Follow this foolproof guide of tips to stay strong and healthy all season long.

Pistachios
Pistachios Agave Studio / Shutterstock

1. Eat Before You Go

The easiest, most effective way to sidestep a binge-eating food frenzy is to pack your belly full of nutritious, filling food. Try to mix some good fats—for satiety—with complex carbs—to reduce hunger—to help keep your eyes smaller than your stomach. Good choices include pistachios and avocados, which both have high levels of unsaturated fats and fiber, and lentils, which are packed with fiber and complex carbs. If you’re in a rush, or don’t feel like preparing food before you head out, try mixing up a whey protein shake and downing that. A 2010 University of Toronto study found that consuming 20 to 40 grams of whey protein mixed with water can help you feel full before big meals. And when there, skip the cookies and crackers and instead head for the protein-based appetizers: shrimp cocktail, meats like salami or pepperoni, oysters (if you’re lucky!), meatballs, and deviled eggs.

Suntory ALL-FREE
Suntory ALL-FREE Courtesy Image

2. Don’t Fear the “Beer”

If you’re a beer fanatic, there are plenty of light craft beers you can bring with you to keep calories and carbs down. But for those wanting to be even healthier and skip alcohol altogether, pack some Suntory ALL-FREE, a beer-like refresher made by the legendary Japanese brewing and distilling company. The 0.00% alcohol beer-like beverage presents uncompromising taste since it’s made with two-row malt barley and aroma hops, giving it a welcome bitter note and light, crisp flavor. Best of all, you get all of that refreshing beer-like taste and strong carbonation with zero calories and sugar plus no artificial flavors or sweeteners. Get 35% off with promo code 35ALLFREE until December 31 (*limited offer).

3. Pick a Small Plate

During cocktail hour, nab the smallest plate available to help limit how many goodies you can pile on. There’s a psychological component as well: A study from the Food and Brand Lab at Cornell showed that using something like a salad plate instead of a dinner plate can trick your brain into thinking the serving is much larger, leading to fewer calories consumed overall. If all that’s available are large plates, grab a napkin as opposed to a plate—this way you can only hold one drink and one hors d’oeuvre at a time.

Whey banana smoothie
Whey banana smoothie etorres / Shutterstock

4. Thin Your Drinks

There’s no doubt the drinks will flow at holiday get-togethers this year. But instead of just giving into temptation and slugging down glass after glass of alcohol, try alternating each quaff with water to maintain your hydration levels and limit the amount of alcohol you consume. Other great options include sticking with a clear spirit—like vodka or tequila—and mixing with generous amounts of seltzer, or reaching for a zero-alcohol bev like ALL-FREE.

5. Jump Back Into Action

Missing a few days of training during the holidays when you’ve been very consistent during the year is not a big deal—just start wherever your last training session left off. It may be a boon, too, because those extra days of rest might help you achieve some degree of supercompensation (the phase that results from training hard and undergoing recovery), resulting in an even better training session upon return. Remember though to take a few extra minutes to warm up and cool down on your pre- and post-workout. If your dynamic warmup is usually 5 minutes, extend it to 7 minutes—the extra time can help boost your blood flow following a sluggish, holiday-induced torpor.

Chewing gum
Chewing gum Studio KIWI

6. Smack Some Gum

An easy-to-employ trick for keeping your appetite down is to carry some sugar-free gum with you. (Go for peppermint flavors as they’ve been found to suppress appetites.) Pop a piece when your stomach starts grumbling to squelch the desire to stuff your face. A 2011 study from the journal Appetite showed that chewing gum for up to 45 minutes after a meal can slow snacking by about 10 percent.

7. Make Moves

Feeling bloated and sloth-like after failing to heed our tips during a holiday feast? Don’t despair, just make sure to get moving as soon as possible. In the immediate aftermath of a massive meal, simply getting up and getting moving can help you feel like you haven’t totally destroyed your pre-holiday fitness. Go for a walk with family or take out the pup to get your digestion moving.



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Oversleeping: What Happens When You Sleep Too Much?

Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining good health, but is there a danger in getting too much sleep? While we might be tempted to sleep long hours on the weekend, experts suggest oversleeping may be a sign of more serious health conditions, such as thyroid disorders and heart disease. Moreover, the desire to oversleep is now linked to mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

Throughout this article, we discuss how much sleep is too much. We also take a closer look at the causes and effects of oversleeping.

How Much Sleep Is Too Much?

Your age typically determines the amount of sleep you need per night. However, your overall health, lifestyle habits, and certain disorders may also affect your sleep needs. For example, if you’ve been particularly active or are going through an illness or stressful life situation, you may require more rest than usual.

These changes aside, most adults should get between 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Below, we outline the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) sleep recommendations based on age.

  • Newborn (0 to 3 months): 14 to 17 hours (including naps)
  • Infant (4 to 12 months): 12 to 16 hours (including naps)
  • Toddler (1 to 2 years): 11 to 14 hours (including naps)
  • Preschool (3 to 5 years): 10 to 13 hours (including naps)
  • School age (6 to 12 years): 9 to 12 hours
  • Teenagers (13 to 18 years): 8 to 10 hours
  • Adults (18 to 65 years): 7 to 8 hours

Causes of Oversleeping

As we mentioned above, several factors may cause excess tiredness. The following sleep disorders and medical conditions can cause oversleeping.

  • Idiopathic hypersomnia: Also called excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), hypersomnia causes the extreme need to sleep during the day. The desire to sleep is not satisfied by daytime napping and often results in longer sleep periods at night. Hypersomnia is often accompanied by low energy levels, trouble focusing, poor memory retention, and anxiety symptoms. Those with hypersomnia often need 10 to 12 hours of sleep.
  • Obstructive sleep apnea: This sleep disorder causes breathing to start and stop during sleep. Therefore, those with sleep apnea often experience nighttime disruptions that affect their normal sleep cycle, causing them to extend their sleep time.
  • Depression: Chronic fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD). Furthermore, antidepressant medications can also cause extreme sleepiness.
  • Certain medications: Some medications may cause drowsiness that increases our need for more sleep at night. Certain prescriptions can also make it difficult to relax and fall asleep at night—disrupting the natural circadian rhythm and causing the desire to oversleep.
  • Narcolepsy: The inconsistency of REM sleep and excessive sleepiness often causes those with narcolepsy to oversleep.
  • Heart disease: Constant fatigue may be a sign of heart disease. The heart’s inability to pump efficiently can lead to poor circulation, low energy levels, and chronic fatigue.
  • Thyroid issues: Thyroid disorders can have a negative impact on energy levels, sleep patterns, and mood. Hypothyroidism causes sluggishness, depression, and fatigue, while hyperthyroidism causes restlessness, irritability, difficulty falling asleep, and anxiety.

Effects of Oversleeping

Below, we outline the health effects associated with oversleeping.

  • Obesity: Research indicates those who regularly sleep 9 to 10 hours a night are more likely to experience excess weight gain and obesity.
  • Diabetes: Although research is inconclusive, some studies show a moderate association with diabetes and increased sleep times among middle-aged and older women. One National Library of Medicine study followed 276 individuals over 6 years and found that those with both short and long sleep durations were more likely to experience a glucose intolerance, which leads to diabetes.
  • Back Pain: Long sleepers are more likely to experience pain and joint inflammation, specifically in the lumbar region. This is often due to muscle fatigue which occurs when resting on your back for an extended time. Oversleeping on an unsupportive mattress or in an awkward position can also lead to chronic back pain.
  • Headaches: Sleeping longer than average often causes a hormonal imbalance which can lead to headaches.
  • Anxiety and depression: A consistent sleep schedule helps maintain hormone levels. When we stay in bed longer than necessary, our cortisol, adrenalin, and serotonin levels can become imbalanced, making it difficult for us to manage stress and anxiety. Over time, this imbalance may lead to depression.
  • Heart disease: Studies suggest both men and women who experience insufficient or excessive amounts of sleep have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a higher mortality rate due to heart complications. 
  • Stroke: A 6-year study involving 31,750 adults with an average age of 63 found that those who slept more than 8 hours a night were 23 percent more likely to have a stroke than those who slept between 7 and 8 hours a night.
  • Poor immune function: A longer sleep duration can influence the production of cytokines, the group of proteins, peptides, or glycoproteins that aid the immune system. As a result, longer than normal sleep times can result in poor immune function.

Tips to Avoid Oversleeping

The following tips can help you get a good night’s sleep and avoid the dangerous complications of oversleeping.

  • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule: Maintaining a set bedtime and wake-up time ensures you get between 7 and 8 hours of sleep. Plus, a consistent sleep schedule can prevent a hormonal imbalance which may lead to oversleeping. Over time, your body becomes conditioned to expect rest during these times, making it easier for you to fall asleep and wake up each morning.
  • Avoid caffeinated beverages after 2 p.m: Beverages with caffeine, such as soda and coffee, can stimulate the nervous system and make it difficult for you to get peaceful shuteye. Additionally, coffee can make you feel sleepy rather than alert, leading to daytime drowsiness. Caffeine is known to reduce the amount of deep sleep you experience, making it more likely you will oversleep.
  • Create the perfect sleep space: It is essential to make your bedroom as comfortable, quiet, and dark as possible to promote deep, restful sleep. Install blackout curtains to block light, use ear plugs if outside noises keep you awake, and keep electronics out of the bedroom. These changes can help you find better quality rest and ensure you do not oversleep.
  • Avoid blue light exposure: Melatonin, the sleep hormone, is triggered by darkness. During the day, when we are exposed to sunlight, melatonin production is low to keep us alert. However, as the sun sets, and we are exposed to less light, melatonin increases, and we become tired. The blue light from electronic devices can mimic the effects of sunlight and prevent melatonin production, making it harder for us to fall asleep. 
  • Keep a sleep diary: A sleep diary can help you keep track of your sleep habits and how they affect your mood, behavior, and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel sleepy even after sleeping for 8 hours?

If you feel sleepy even after a full 8 hours of sleep, you may not have experienced adequate time in deep sleep or REM sleep. These sleep stages are known to be the most restorative stages because they are responsible for several vital functions, such as repairing muscle tissue, cleaning the brain, and consolidating memory. Without enough time in these stages of sleep, you may feel groggy even after a full night of rest.

Is it unhealthy to sleep during the day and be awake at night?

Sleeping during the day and staying awake at night can disrupt your natural sleep-wake cycle and cause a hormone imbalance. When the production of melatonin, cortisol, and other hormones becomes irregular, normal bodily functions, such as appetite, immune function, and digestion, are also disrupted. Additionally, an erratic sleep-wake schedule can also make it difficult for us to remain alert during the day and sleep naturally at night.

Do I have hypersomnia?

If you experience periods of extreme daytime sleepiness or prolonged nighttime sleeping, you may have hypersomnia. Those with hypersomnia also experience anxiety, low energy, loss of appetite, and poor memory. Hypersomnia is often a side effect of another sleep disorder, such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea.

Do you burn calories when sleeping?

As the body carries out essential functions during sleep, we naturally burn calories. The amount of calories you burn while sleeping depends on your body weight and metabolism. Typically, a person who weighs 125 pounds burns 38 calories per hour when sleeping. Someone who weighs 185 pounds burns around 56 calories per hour.

What is somniphobia?

Somniphobia, also known as sleep anxiety or sleep dread, is the intense fear of sleep or bedtime. This condition often results in insomnia and anxiety because individuals are worried about sleep throughout the day. Those with somniphobia typically have sleep paralysis and night terrors.

Conclusion

There is a fine line between adequate sleep and too much sleep. However, if you listen to your body, maintain a consistent sleep schedule, and practice good sleep hygiene, you can reap the benefits of a full 8 hours and reduce the risk of oversleeping. If you believe your tendency to oversleep is connected to a more severe health problem, be sure to discuss these symptoms with your doctor. They may be able to help you create a comprehensive plan for better quality sleep.

mj-390_294_eat-better-to-sleep-better

The Sleep-Better Diet

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'Ride to Survive' is One of the Most Creative Trials Bike Edits We've Seen

Trials bike riders are notorious for some very creative video edits. Trials riding itself requires finding creative lines and obstacles, but once you add a quirky storyline to the equation––things can get interesting.

Case and point, trials rider Tomomi Nishikubo recently released a new bike edit, ‘Ride to Survive.’ The premise for the video is that Nishikubo is a castaway on a deserted island and finds a bike in the bushes. For the next seven minutes, he pulls off variety of wild tricks to “survive” and send signals for help.

While the plot is obviously a bit far-fetched, Nishikubo’s use of the natural environment to come up with trials obstacles and trick platforms is impressive. But how will he escape the island on a bike? Find out for yourself.

Fabio Wibmer

Behind-the-Scenes: Fabio Wibmer's Insane Trials Bike Trick Videos

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Can Some Vaccines Reduce Your Alzheimer’s Risk?

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Could vaccines play a role in preventing Alzheimer’s disease? Researchers are looking at that question more broadly after finding that the flu and pneumonia vaccines might also help protect against the devastating memory loss of Alzheimer's disease.



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COVID Can Harm the Infant Heart

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Researchers found a 2-month-old baby experienced heart issues similar to those seen in adults. The infant later recovered and was released with no heart medications.



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Pandemic Is Driving U.S. Surge in Cardiac Arrests Tied to Overdose

heart attack

Analyzing data on nearly 26 million EMS calls in 2020, they found that OD-linked cardiac arrests reached a peak in May, when lockdowns began to really take hold across the United States.



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Financial Missteps Could Signal Future Dementia

20 dollar bill

Older people diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's were more likely to miss credit card payments as early as six years before their diagnosis, compared with similar people without dementia (about 8% versus 7%), the researchers found.



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5 Great Grills, Smokers and Pizza Ovens For Backyard Cooking

While it’s unclear when social norms are going to get back to what we all remember, don’t let this strange time stifle your enthusiasm for good backyard cooking. This is the perfect time to sharpen your culinary skills and try your hand at some new tools of the trade.

We’ve outlined five of our favorite new grills and smokers that are keeping our creative juices flowing and helping us produce mouthwatering, smokey-flavored goodness. Not to mention, they are some of the best gift ideas for the grill master in your life.

PK360 Grill & Smoker

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If you’re a big fan of cooking over charcoal, then the PK360 Grill & Smoker is the perfect all-around tool to get that savory, smoky flavor with minimal hassle and maximum convenience. Why, you ask?

Well, for starters, its radial vent system with four vents (as opposed to two vents on most charcoal grills) helps you target specific zones and control airflow inside its genius bullet-shaped smart capsule. This makes keeping your desired temperature precise and well-maintained throughout the entire grilling time. It’s the easiest way we’ve ever tried to cook with precision over charcoal. Whether you want ultra-hot or low-and-slow, this is one of the most sophisticated vent systems you’ll find. The PK360 stands tall (roughly 43 inches), so you’re not killing your back bending over and flipping burgers, it has ample cooking surface area (360 sq. in.) and it features an impressive amount of headroom inside the capsule (5374 cubic in.) for larger items like prime rib roast or even a whole turkey.

Last, but not least, the thoughtful design of the PK360 is just damn handsome––a timeless throwback feel with a modern twist. Not to mention, the rust-proof aluminum construction not only conducts heat four times more efficiently than steel, but it’ll withstand inclement weather and hold its integrity for years to come. Trust us… your neighbors are going to be peeking over the fence in envy. For a capable do-it-all charcoal grill, the PK360 is a home run.

[$799.99; pkgrills.com]

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Ooni Fyra Portable Wood-Fired Pizza Oven

ooni fyra
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Who doesn’t like a homemade pizza? Better yet… Who doesn’t like a homemade wood-fired pizza? Cooking in a wood-fired oven is one of the most flavorful ways to prepare your pie. That being said, we were thrilled when we discovered the mighty little Fyra Portable Pizza Oven by Ooni. This thing packs so much punch into a minimal (and attractive) little package. It runs on hardwood pellets, and it can reach an impressive 925 degrees Fahrenheit in just 15 minutes—to us, that capability alone is incredible. It weighs in at just over 20 pounds, so it’s not technically “featherlight,” but we found that moving it from place to place is no struggle at all.

Want to know the most jaw dropping spec in its whole lineup? It can fully cook a stone-baked pizza in as little as 60 seconds. (Yep, you heard that right.) If you’re looking to pump out pizzeria-quality pies right from your own backyard—for multiple hungry mouths—it does not get any better than the Fyra. Not to mention, it’s specifically designed for ease-of-use and maximum portability, so you can literally take this bad boy just about anywhere. And with a very attractive price point, this is the perfect addition to any backyard chef’s arsenal, or the perfect gift for the home cook in your life.

[$249; ooni.com]

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KUDU Grill

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Are you looking for a multi-functioning cooking tool for your backyard BBQs? Well, the KUDU not only serves as an elegantly designed open-fire grill, but also as a phenomenal fire pit with the addition of their fire rings. But let’s start with its grilling capabilities, shall we?

First off, you can operate the KUDU with your favorite briquette, seasoned firewood (or smoking wood), as well as lump charcoal. However you choose to get your open fire going, the KUDU can accommodate. Our favorite part, however, is its unique dual cooking surfaces that are fully adjustable—both vertically and horizontally. You want lower heat? Place items on the upper surface. Need to let your meat rest? Simply rotate the surface away from the fire with no hassle whatsoever. It’s so ergonomic and user-friendly, that we found ourselves forgetting that we were even manning a handful of different types of food (from veggies to tri-tip to chicken wings). It makes juggling your food ever-so pleasant and gives you more time to socialize and enjoy a cold beer.

Not to mention that with the raised cooking surfaces, it makes moving your coals or wood around as simple and easy as we’ve ever experienced, and also maximizes your ability to control heat. This thing passed our grilling test with flying colors and made for some damn tasty BBQ. With an exceptionally reasonable price point for what this grill is, it makes a home-run gift idea for that open-flame-cooking enthusiast in your life.

BONUS: It also breaks down in a matter of minutes so it boasts portability along with its already stellar capability.

[$499; kudugrills.com]

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Solo Stove Grill Ultimate Bundle

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Looking for a grill that (quite literally) anybody can operate? From the backyard to the beach, the Solo Stove Grill Ultimate Bundle has everyone covered. First of all, the stainless steel Solo Stove Grill features an ultra-precise 360-degree airflow design that gets piping hot in minutes and gets you grilling quicker than most any charcoal grill we’ve tried this year.

It’s specifically designed to be a centerpiece for people to gather around. Much like you would sit around a campfire, this grill is designed in a way that you simply feel drawn to it, and that’s when people take a seat and conversation inevitably ensues. We can attest to this first-hand, as our kiddos were fascinated by the new addition to the backyard grill setup, and we all chatted and shared thoughts as we cooked our dinner––a priceless experience. It’s lightweight enough to take with you on casual excursions, and heavy duty enough to feel like a permanent staple in your yard.

Tennessee pitmaster Josh Wadley has become a king of roadside barbecue—using culinary skills he honed in prison kitchens.

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The Ultimate Bundle is really the way-to-go with this grill––a short stand (13 inches tall), a traditional stand (21 inches tall), ultra-high-quality spatula, tongs and meat fork, a heavy duty carry case, grill shelter, charcoal starters (super easy to use and fires up every time), as well as four pounds of all-natural charcoal briquettes (some of the best flavor we’ve gotten from charcoal). It really has everything you need to get started right out of the box.

The brand calls it “No Hassle Charcoal Grilling,” and we’d have to wholeheartedly agree with that claim. Whether you’re in the market for a new addition to your backyard grill kit, or you’re desperately seeking the perfect gift for the grill master in your life, you should certainly take a good look at the Solo Stove Grill.

[$774.99; solostove.com]

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Snow Peak Smokemeister

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Are you a fan of simple and elegant design? Then we’re guessing that you already know all about Snow Peak. They make some of the finest outdoor gear we’ve ever gotten our hands on and their Smokemeister stainless steel smoker is no exception. It’s small, portable, clean, and as simple as we’ve ever seen for a smoker. This is a big deal for many people, as bells and whistles can often get in the way of the big picture… which is delicious food.

All you do is add a few charcoals (as well as smoking chips if you prefer), get it heated up, and then add your food for a low-and-slow smoking experience. It has up to six levels for whatever different types of food you wish to add, and it simply does its one job exceptionally well. Again, this smoker is not for the flashy chef, nor the feature-hungry enthusiast. This smoker is for the simplistic, aesthetic-loving backyard chef that appreciates beautiful design as much as functionality. It’s extremely compact and lightweight, so bringing this on any camping trip, beach day, park picnic, or cul de sac block party is as easy as lugging out a ceramic bowl of potato salad. And our favorite part about the whole operation is the minimal amount of charcoal you need to get this thing up to proper temperature. We’ll say it again: Minimal. Beautiful.

[$244.95; snowpeak.com]

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Kentucky Fog Is the Bourbon County Brand Stout Variant to Drink in 2020

Daylight saving time is here, its unwelcome bags stuffed with 5 p.m. sunsets and a potential sales pitch for breweries. Dark days deserve dark beers. It’s marketing magic for imperial stouts, those boozy heavyweights swinging haymakers filled with coffee and cocoa, decadent sips for cranking our internal thermostats. And fall’s most ballyhooed bruisers are Goose Island’s Bourbon County stouts, an annual tradition that dates back to the early ’90s.

The 27 Best Beers You Can Actually Buy at Your Local Grocery Store

The 27 Best Beers You Can Actually Buy at a Local Grocery Store

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Back then, Goose Island flouted convention by aging an imperial stout in freshly emptied bourbon barrels. The spirited approach was groundbreaking then, but today it’s well-trod ground. Bourbon barrel–aged stouts are sold by breweries small and big, making it tough to stand out in the boozy darkness.

Goose Island is trying hard to differentiate in 2020. The company’s slate of Bourbon County variants numbers seven deep, starting with the flagship. It’s seasoned in assorted bourbon barrels from Wild Turkey, Buffalo Trace, and Heaven Hill, a fudgy vanilla treat.

Bourbon County_2020
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It’s solid stuff, rich and delicious in all the expected metrics. But that’s table stakes for this category of beers. Breweries must consistently up the ante, be it in rarity or flavor, to attract attention and credit cards. Goose Island caters to the pay-any-price collector set with varieties aged in barrels that contained Old Forester Birthday and W.L. Weller bourbons, two of today’s more sought-after brands. On the other hand, the Proprietor’s release is inspired by spumoni and tastes like Maraschino cherries and the promise of future cavities.

My taste buds are biased, though. I care neither for sweetness nor the cinnamon, caramel, and apple flavors of the wheat wine called Caramella. I do love coffee, mainlining cold brew and cortados all morning, priming me for Special #4 and its injection of Intelligentsia Coffee and maple syrup. It was pretty good, but also pretty by the book. Coffee. Beer. It’s a match made in our expected idea of heaven.

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The Best Bourbons of 2020

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Instead, I’d prefer to endlessly meander through the marvelous miasma of Kentucky Fog. It seeks flavor inspiration inside the London Fog, an Earl Grey–infused latté sold at Starbucks. The bourbon-barreled stout is blended with clover honey and Earl Grey and black teas. There’s a sweetly floral fragrance, bright with lemon and grapefruits and balanced by honey, a strapping stout that drinks nimble and elegant, a sumo wrestler with the ability to powerlift and pirouette.

Kentucky Fog is the dreamiest stout I’ve sipped all year, proof that darkness can be light and delightful. This variant will suit everyone to a tea.

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This Is the Ultimate Gift for the Fitness Lover in Your Life

This article was produced in partnership with WHOOP

If you’re shopping for the fitness lover in your life, the WHOOP strap really can’t be beat. Fitness is often a numbers game: How fast did you run? How far did you ride? How many pounds did you lift? What gets lost in pursuit of those numbers, though, is how well you recover. After all, that’s where the magic happens—when the body’s immune system repairs the micro tears in the muscles caused by exercise, which helps build them back stronger than before.

As recovery has become one of the fitness industry’s biggest buzzwords, technology has risen to meet the occasion. Wearables (the top fitness trend of 2020, according to an annual report by the American College of Sports Medicine) no longer track just steps and calories burned, but recovery time, energy reserves, and stress levels to provide a more holistic look at health and fitness.

And while many have started including recovery metrics, WHOOP has always been about optimizing recovery to make gains, perfect for someone who loves tracking their fitness but may need a reminder to chill when it counts. The fact that athletes like Michael Phelps and LeBron James wear the band, and it’s the official wearable of the NFL Players Association, well, that just makes it even more lust-worthy.

WHOOP measures three key metrics: strain, sleep, and recovery.

WHOOP Strap 3.0
WHOOP Strap 3.0 Courtes Image

Strain translates to the cardiovascular load—tracked via 24/7 heart rate monitoring displayed on a scale of 0 to 20—achieved during a workout or over the course of the day. Exercise can be a good stressor, but piling on additional stress (whether it’s from overtraining, work, parenting, or just the state of the world) can tip someone into detrimental territory. Wherever that number falls at a given moment, the app’s Strain Coach provides personalized insight into how much additional strain is optimal for the body to take on, with goals that can be monitored in real-time during a workout.

On the flip side of strain is recovery. WHOOP quantifies recovery by tracking how the body adapts to strain via heart rate variability, resting heart rate, and sleep performance. Every day, the device provides a daily recovery score (on a scale of 0 to 100 percent) to clue the wearer in to how ready their body is to perform.

And then there’s sleep. Quality shuteye may be the single most important factor in exercise recovery, according to new research from the International Journal of Sports Medicine. Not only does the WHOOP strap track standard metrics like sleep stages, disturbances, time spent in bed, and how long falling asleep takes, it uses that personalized data to determine how much sleep someone needs each night to make up for missed shuteye or extra stress. The whole idea is to prevent the accrual of sleep debt, which can cause lingering side effects that might affect performance.

Even without a wearable, most people know how hard they train. But fitness is about so much more than what happens in a workout. This is the perfect gift for anyone looking to get into working out for the first time, as well as advanced athletes who are training for a race or competition (even if that’s virtual this year). Beyond fitness, the WHOOP strap is also excellent for people with stressful jobs. Currently, the company is working with doctors, nurses, and frontline staff to analyze how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting them in the field. Burnout has become a serious problem for people worldwide, whether they’re in the medical field or just balancing work-from-home duties with child-rearing.

WHOOP data on app
WHOOP data on app Courtesy Image

The goal is to help people create a better work-life balance that will benefit their mental and physical health. The WHOOP app can provide actionable tips like specific sleep times and warnings when recovery hasn’t been achieved so someone can make a more concerted effort to recuperate—whether that be to take a walk, meditate, or read. We can’t think of a better gift to give ahead of the new year.

[WHOOP Strap 3.0, from $180 for six-month membership; after, it’s $30/month, whoop.com]

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Gift Guide: The Most Memorable Gift Ideas for Any Golfer

In partnership with TAG Heuer

Sure, the golfer on your list can always use a box of balls, and while they would certainly appreciate a dozen ProV1s, they will last but a fleeting few rounds. The same is true for tees, gloves, or even a gift card for the pro-shop. For a more memorable gift that will bring a smile to your player’s lips over and over again every time they tee it up, you need to dig a little deeper, and go beyond the predictable. Here are six indelible presents that your favorite player will cherish long after the holidays.

Tag Heuer Golf Edition
Courtesy TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer Connected Golf Edition Watch

Information is key to a good round of golf. TAG Heuer’s Connected Golf Edition watch, paired with the brand’s smartphone app, will help your player plot their way through a round on over 40,000 courses worldwide, giving them GPS data to position shots in the fairway and providing yardages for approaches into the green. Highly detailed hole flyovers and weather forecasts are easy to read thanks to a snappy OLED touch screen, plus 8GB storage and 1GB RAM. The watch also lets golfers track and record shot distances, which is saved back on the app to provide statistical analysis. All that info gives your player a better handle on their game and where they could focus their attention for improvement. Plus, the watch not only can provide the golfer’s score and putts but also those of the other players in their foursome. The 45mm case is crafted from lightweight black titanium, so it won’t weigh down the swing and comes loaded with numerous face options including a stylish skeleton chronograph design. Bonus: It’s water resistant in case your golfer likes to enjoy a post-round plunge in the club pool.

[$2,550; tagheuer.com]

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Titleist TSi Driver
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Titleist TSi Driver

Every golfer wants the latest and greatest driver. A big stick that goes farther and flies straighter, and the recently released Titleist TSi does just those things. The driver’s face is made from 425 aerospace titanium, which is produced at only one Pittsburgh foundry, for added strength and elasticity for more ball speed, while a new, more aerodynamic shape allows for more speed and power. The driver comes in two models; the TSi2 gives less consistent players speed and forgiveness on mishits anywhere on the face, while the TSi3 provides golfers who can hit it closer to center more control with the brand’s new SureFit Track Design that shifts the center of gravity to optimize shape and trajectory for even more distance.

[$549; titleist.com]

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PXG Irons
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PXG Gen 3 Irons

Few things will tickle a golfer more than a new set of irons and our favorite PXG’s Gen 3 sticks check all the performance boxes for players across nearly every skill level. All three models; Xtreme Performance for golfers who need quite a bit of forgiveness, Players for the mid-handicappers, and Tour for quality ball strikers, feature an insanely thin, strong HT1770 maraging steel face buttressed by two layers of polymer inside a five-time forged frame. All that adds up to faster ball speeds combined with better sound and feel. While perimeter titanium and tungsten weighting makes them more forgiving when contact is less than ideal, well struck shots fly high and long and balls hit at the target land softly on the green like butterflies with scorched feet.

[$299 per club; pxg.com]

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ECCO BIOM COOL PRO
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ECCO M Golf Biom Cool Pro Shoes

Our game is one that is meant to be walked and keeping the player’s feet fresh is crucial to playing well. Soft and light, ECCO M Golf Biom Cool Pro shoes not only offer excellent traction and grip during the swing thanks to three zones of soft spikes, they also use ergonomically advanced soles, 100 percent waterproof GORE-TEX construction, and a grid built into the midsole to release heat and moisture to keep your player’s good walk unspoiled.

[$230; us.ecco.com]

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GG Rain Suit
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Galvin Green Rain Suit

For golfers who need to get out rain or shine, a good rain suit is an important necessity and like in most things, you get what you pay for. While it’s a bit of an investment, Galvin Green makes the finest foul weather gear we’ve tested. Not only are this jacket, pants, and insulation combo fully waterproof, windproof, and breathable, they also utilize stretch panels deployed with golf movement in mind, keeping the swing fluid and unrestricted even in a downpour.

[Jacket: $699; galvingreen.com]

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[Pants: $599; galvingreen.com]

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[Insulation: $129; galvingreen.com]

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Pringle Sweater
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Pringle Cashmere Sweater

Few things in this world feel more opulent than fine cashmere. But it also makes an excellent extra layer on the golf course. It’s warm, it’s soft, it breathes, and this Argyle from the venerable Scottish maker Pringle is perfect for cooler weather from tee to green and stylish enough for adventure beyond the clubhouse.

[$943; pringlescotland.com]

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Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Gear for Cool-Weather Car Camping

It’s hard to beat camping in the fall. Temperatures in the mornings and evenings drop, luring you to longer, cozier sleep, while the days remain warm for comfortable outings. Destinations that were too hot to visit in the summer, like the desert, or too crowded, begin to feel welcoming again. And mountainous landscapes begin to emit that particular kind of magic only autumn can bring.

Spring and summer of this pandemic-defined year saw a boom in everything outdoors—from bikes to camping gear, anything to get people outside and adventuring—flying off the shelves. Don’t let the cooler temps and darker days keep you from recreating outdoors; here’s the fall car camping gear to keep everyone in the family healthy and happy, kids included.

Eddie Bauer Carbon River

Eddie Bauer Carbon River 4 Tent
Talk about roomy. If you’ve got a growing family and need an affordable tent that’s going to fit you all comfortably, while holding up to the elements, this four-person option from Eddie Bauer should be at the top of your list. Set-up is so easy the kids can help pitch in, no problem. Mesh panels offer breathability and ideal stargazing views, and the 50-inch center height makes the tent feel even more spacious.

Big Agnew dual tandem sleeping bag

Big Agnes Double Bag + Kids Bag
If there’s one thing nights on the ground teach you to invest in, it’s a quality sleeping bag. A bad night’s sleep can derail any camping trip, especially if you’re just getting kids used to the idea of sleeping outdoors too. That means, split up: Try the Big Agnes Sentinel 30 double bag for the adults, and a separate kids’ bag for each of your offspring (check out BA’s Little Red option). It all comes down to being comfortable, and Big Agnes is known for proven quality and longevity. For maximum use, pick a bag that’s got a temperature rating that fits a variety of locales.

Big Agnes sleeping bags

Note the Vasque boots, a solid hiking boot option for both parents and kids—the perfect stomp-anywhere camp footwear—solid meaning high comfort and low break-in period. For stretching fall into winter, the Vasque’s Breeze WT GTX provides an extra layer of elemental protection with added insulation plus its integrated Gore-Tex laminate.

Vasque Breeze WT GTX Hiking Boot

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Front Runner Table

Front Runner Table
Picking out a camp table is tricky. First, it needs to be in stock (pandemic demand=serious production delays). Second, it needs to be easy to tote, pack, and assemble. And then it must still do its one job: create a capable cooking and eating space without being too cramped. If you’re car camping with more room to work with, check out the Front Runner Table. It integrates with the Platform Rack, but can stand alone as well.

The table is reasonably lightweight, and easy to clean and store. At 44.5 inches long and desk height, it’s got plenty of room for prepping and eating camp meals, and is tall enough for adults and kids alike to share.

FjallRaven bags

Fjallraven Kanken Bags – Adult and Kids
Most of us camping with kids in tow won’t be going on seven-day ultralight backpacking trips. (At least, not for your first adventure.) So the pack you pick doesn’t need to be the lightest, or that technical. Consider the classic Fjallraven Kanken. In a dizzying array of colors, the backpack also comes in matching kids’ and adult versions. It’s got ample room, plus a handy pocket for stashing goods gathered along hikes. It also comes with a hidden seat cushion, which is worth its weight in gold on longer hikes with lunch breaks.

car camping

All the Basic Gear You Need to Go Car Camping

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Rumpl Nanoloft

Rumpl Blanket
Rumpl’s blankets are perfect for family camping for a number of reasons, the most important clean-up. For small spills, simply wipe and let air dry. For larger messes, throw it in the washing machine after the trip. It’s versatile, synthetic-insulated NanoLoft Puffy blankets can be used however: for cozying up next to the fire, adding a bit of warmth and padding to the tent, snuggling up to read a book, or watching the stars.

Maven spotting glass

Maven Spotting Glass
Although technically made for hunting, Maven’s Spotting Glass works equally well for stargazing. The key for checking out the night skies (or the wildlife surrounding your campsite) is stability. If you’ve got a tripod handy, great. If not, choose a safe and secure place to rest the Maven, and keep an eye out for shooting stars.

Adventure Medical Kits

Adventure Medical Kits
It’s never too early to start teaching kids the basic rules of first aid, or too late to learn. Since emergencies are never planned, Adventure Medical Kits make a variety of sizes to fit different needs, and they come stocked with the supplies necessary for most camping trips. I particularly like the Day Tripper—it’s the perfect size for kids to carry in their own packs, and gives them the autonomy to take first aid into their own hands.

GSI checkers chess camp game

GSI Indoor/Outdoor Games
Gone are the days of a deck of cards being the only entertainment on a camping trip. Although I’m all for simplicity when it comes to outdoor adventures, sometimes it’s nice to bring along a game or two. That being said, don’t lug around the board games from home. Sorry Monopoly: too bulky, and too many small parts to lose. That’s where GSI Outdoors and its indoor/outdoor games come in. The magnetized checker board comes in clutch during long car rides (or bumpy ones), and the bocce ball set is so portable and lightweight you’ll hardly notice you brought it, until you start playing.

Airstream Bascamp road trip

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