Recently I took the Climacool Fresh 2.0 Running shoe for a little test run and I must say they took off, literally, from the word go.

We bonded, and when I say bonded they fit like an absolute dream. Almost like they were a part of your foot. At a mere 184g (I think a slimslab weighs more than that) you hardly notice them there. They have a wonderful minimal design (less is always more for me when it comes to trainers) and no bulky heel clipping when I run with a relaxed pace. The ClimaCool range (which is a registired trademark and I will be covering more items in the range) provides a 360-degree cooling for the entire foot, if you count in Jacob Zuma numbers that’s a two hundred and fourty nine milthousand (just kidding) – But the point is a lot of cooling going on and your feet feel fresh even whilst you are dying up there. The material is 100% breathable mesh which wraps your foot in a snug hug which is very non-constictive. A few other highlights include.

• Breathable mesh upper and color-blocked heel

• Insole board membrane keeps water from entering through outsole holes

• Full-length ADIPRENE® for comfort and superior cushioning at impact

Durable Mesh Makes for Comfortable Sit and light weight feel

Highly durable lightweight EVA and placed rubber outsole for grip on all surfaces; Openings in outsole for breathability

My overall verdict is that its a very nice running shoe. Value for money and looks oh so slick!  Follow Adidas for more product updates on @AdidasZA

So what makes Smart Oats so Smart?

FUTURELIFE® Smart Oats™ is a source of Protein, 13 Vitamins

What I also like about Smart Oats is that it is free from wheat, soy, lactose, cholesterol, trans-fatty acids and tree nuts. It is also free from Tartrazine and other colorants.

Knowing how important fiber is to my diet it I nice to know that Smart Oats is made from 5 different grains. These are Oats, Maize, Rice and two ancient grains, namely; Sorghum and Organic Quinoa.

Chromium also features in Smart Oats which in turn promotes normal blood glucose levels and the syntghesis of cholesterol fats and proteins.

For those who train both professionally and as a lifestyle can enjoy the benefits of electrolyte replenishment. Smart Oats is a source of 2 Electrolytes (calcium and magnesium), which play an important role in maintaining a normal fluid balance in your body

And for the new Futurelife users MODUCARE® is a daily immune supplement made from a patented blend of natural plant sterols and sterolins, in a clinically proven ratio of 100:1. MODUCARE® is supplied exclusively to FUTURELIFE® under licence from Aspen Pharmacare and is unique to Futurelife.

Smart Oats is perfect for the whole family, vegetarians and lactose intolerant people. The product is available in Original and Chocolate and I recommend Smart Oats to either be enjoyed

As a meal

For every 50g of FUTURELIFE® Smart Oats™ add approximately 100ml of hot (or cold) milk/water. Adjust the ratio to obtain your preferred consistency.

As a Shake

Mix 50g of FUTURELIFE® Smart Oats™ with 200ml of hot (or cold) milk/water. Shake well and enjoy at home or on-the-go. Adjust the ratio to obtain your preferred consistency

I hope everyone else enjoys the product as much as I do.  Please comment and share to stand a chance to win one of 5 @FutureLifeZA hampers!

Anticipated as one of the most prestigious luxury lifestyle events in South Africa, the annual Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, in association with Lamborghini, the iconic Italian supercar manufacturer, takes place on the 5th of December 2015 at Webersburg Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.

Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, now in its third year, offers a ‘best-in-class’ experience with a rich tapestry of design and couture, a selection of SA’s finest wines, an assortment of scrumptious dining and picnic options, live music and entertainment, a VIP and celebrity lounge, a Lamborghini automobile showcase, musical dressage, a 6-bar horse jumping competition , a fashion show by leading designers and much more. Made for socialising, this event is synonymous with luxury, fashion and style, celebrity spectacle and a jubilee of multimedia recognition.

CUISINE

As in previous years, a number of celebrated South African chefs will each be afforded a 45-minute slot to showcase the preparation of one of their signature dishes.

Artisanal Gourmet Dining On-The-Go – a selection of delicious dining options will be available for purchase at the event.

WINE & BEVERAGE

An array of South Africa’s foremost wine estates will again be offering wine tastings. Wine will also be available to purchase, by the bottle or per case, directly from participating wine producers, at cellar door prices. Cash bars will be made accessible to guests throughout the venue. Guests may also enjoy craft beer and biltong tastings, as well as a variety of speciality artisanal cocktail bar options.

In the VIP and celebrity lounge guests may enjoy the complimentary Champagne and Oyster Bar, amongst an array of other delights.

FASHION

Leading South African fashion designers will be showcasing their latest couture collections during a fashion show at this year’s Le Kap Lifestyle Fair. Unique to Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, guests are able to purchase some of the designers’ runway collections on the day of the event.

EQUESTRIAN

One of the key elements of Le Kap Lifestyle Fair is the exciting 6-Bar Jumping competition, where jumpers will be competing for the coveted ‘Lamborghini Cup’ and a ‘winner-takes-all’ cash prize. Also complimenting the event, will be a musical dressage. Dressage is defined by the International Equestrian Federation as ‘the highest expression of horse training,’ also often referred to as Horse Ballet.

AUTOMOBILES

We are thrilled to have ‘Lamborghini‘ as an associate ‘title sponsor’ to Le Kap Lifestyle Fair. The iconic Italian supercar manufacturer will be showcasing their latest range of magnificent supercars at the 2015 Le Kap Lifestyle Fair.

ENTERTAINMENT

Music, art and entertainment will set the ambiance for the various elements of Le Kap Lifestyle Fair throughout the duration of the event, creating yet another highlight in the afternoon’s festivities. For the first time at Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, a live band will be performing..

THE PEOPLE

Le Kap Lifestyle Fair comprises a medley of South Africa’s most distinguished personalities, from leading chefs, fashion designers, television presenters, radio show hosts, politicians, sports stars, internationally acclaimed models, socialites, business executives and those who enjoy celebrating the bespoke Le Kap Lifestyle environment. All these event elements brought together with the Lamborghini automobile showcase will make this year’s Le Kap Lifestyle Fair an event ‘extraordinaire’.

DRESS CODE

The dress code for the day is sophisticated ‘Royal Ascot-inspired chic’. A prize will be awarded to the best dressed couple, as well as to the runner up couple. This will be evaluated in accordance with full ensemble and the inclusion of unique and stunning headwear pieces.

TICKET OPTIONS (Subject to change)

1. GENERAL ADMISSION – R300.00 per person

Entrance to Le Kap Lifestyle Fair, equestrian events, live music, wine tasting, celebrity chef showcasings, fashion show and a Lamborghini automobile display.

2. CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 12 – R50.00

• Event admission

3. VIP ACCESS – R2000.00 per person

• includes general admission package
• VIP parking
• Access into VIP & Celebrity lounge
• Gourmet Oyster and Champagne Pairing
• Canapés
• Complimentary cocktails
• Private VIP Champagne Bar
• Exclusivity and unsurpassed service

GALA DINNER – R 2000.00 per person

As a precursor to this opulent event an exclusive private 5-course gourmand dinner by a master chef will be available to 100 select VIPs on Friday, the 4th of December. The five course ‘gourmand dinner’ will be perfectly paired with select wines. Limited seating may become available to interested parties. Details will be announced on the event website and on the various social media platforms.

The culmination of flavour-fusion food, artisanal beverages, equestrian spectacle, haute couture, music, art, together with the showcase of the latest range of Lamborghini supercars, will make the 2015 Le Kap Lifestyle Fair a premium platform of exceptional standard.

To book, go to www.,lekaplifestylefair.com. For more information contact 021 8297205 or email [email protected].

For more information please visit www.lekaplifestylefair.com, or go to the Facebook page, Le Kap Lifestyle Fair. Follow us on Twitter for more regular news and updates.

You stand a chance to win two tickets to LE KAP LIFESTYLE FAIR simply by commenting why you would like to go.

Follow us on Twitter: @LeKapEvents and Instagram: lekap_lifestylefair

Juniva.com is the brainchild of Gary Novitzkas, founder and former CEO of Kalahari.com which gives me a lot of confidence as a e-shopper.   I can also see that a lot of his previous experience went into this project with its clear and easy navigation options and no confusing mess when browsing categories and brands.

For example categories can be found by vitamin selection, the type of sport for which supplements or products are required, weight management, health issues and brands.

Busy moms, professionals, athletes and anyone who wants wellness can easily access vitamins, supplements, and nutritional products with the click of a button (and it gets delivered to your doorstep) This has certainly been the case for me as a all-of-the-above rounder.

Not really sure what to get or what you need? No problem, Juniva.com also offers educational, advice, on these products, convenience and a selection of more than 1 500 high-quality, hand-selected products all in one.

“Our buyers and in-house health experts scour the globe for manufacturers and products whose values reflect our own high standards and passion for helping you feel and look your best.” Gary Novitzkas

Another nice perk for me is that the vitamins etc I need to buy every month can now just be ordered on ‘repeat subscription’, so that’s one less thing I have to worry about.

Juniva.com has offices in Cape Town and Johannesburg and delivers to clients’ chosen destinations within three to five working days. Orders of R350 and above are delivered free of charge.

I loved the fact that I can order my favourite Solal face product La Bomb as well as my Wheatgrass from Juniva.com. I actually developed an obsession with my @NutriBulletSA and found a handy Nutri Bullet carry bag online as well. Now I can conveniently take my Nutribullet to work without looking like a traveling gypsy.

So here is my favourite part of the article, what did I shop for?

My Solal Rescue moisturiser. Juniva.com even assisted me to choose the “Combination Skin” option to suit my own skin’s needs

I actually never knew you could buy this in a tin. I was (until I found Juniva.com) still researching how to grow my own. Thank goodness I didn’t!!!

And last but not least the NutriBullet travel bag! You can also buy the NutriBullet from Juniva.com!

A new variation on your favorite activity If you’ve always exercised indoors, move your workout outside for a welcome change of scenery.

• Try something entirely new

Make it something you never dreamed you’d do. If you’ve always stuck to solitary pursuits, sign up for a team sport.  Or something fun and exciting that you have on uour bucketlist. How about mountain climbing or kite-surfing? 

• Find a workout buddy

Exercise companions add a social element to any routine.  Personally Intrain with 3 hyper JackRussells – or shall I rather say they train me.  But you can Ask a friend to be your workout partner, you won’t skip a workout if someone is waiting for you.

• Set a new goal

Working out to stay in shape is fine, but setting a goal such as finishing a 10k race or completing a rough water swim will give your daily workouts more meaning.  Have a look at races and activities in your area. 

• Treat yourself to a workout gadget or accessory

Heart-rate monitors, step counters (some really slick ones out now) aquatic toys and other exercise gadgets can make your workouts more fun and challenging.  I think my next one might even be a @GoPro

• Reward yourself

Reaching a fitness goal is a no-brainer excuse to treat yourself to something new. A massage, those new trainers, an evening out, or something that makes you feel great.

• Focus on how good exercise makes you look and feel

I always feel great after a workout even if I initially didn’t even want to go? It picks me up right away! I use imagining having this feeling to motivate me the next time I am thinking about blowing off that workout!

“Microdermabrasion one of the more recent skin-care techniques to have crossed over from Hollywood to the mainstream. It’s being advanced as an “instant facelift”

I, needless to say, was quite a newbe to this therapy considering I am always out and about, I never really get around to my skin treatments. (naughty I know). I was pleasantly surprised and I actually found it quite therapeutic and not painful or distressing at all.

“Your skin is exposed to environmental elements every day. Over the years, the sun’s rays, pollution, and other damaging agents can take a toll on your skin. Microdermabrasion treatment can help reduce or eliminate the wrinkles and fine lines, “crow’s feet,” age spots, light acne scars, and undesired pigmentation that may appear on the skin over time” explained Maryke

So in a nutshell… What Is Microdermabrasion ?

Microdermabrasion is a non-chemical, non-invasive procedure that uses a spray of microcrystals to remove the outermost layer of dry, dead skin cells and reveal younger, healthier-looking skin. I like to say that it’s almost like “sand blasting” the skin. Microdermabrasion also encourages the production of a new underlying layer of skin cells with higher levels elastin, which further improves your skin’s appearance.

The main thing is, when we invest in a treatement we want to see results and we want to see it now.  Thats why I would recommend this to anyone who wants to:

• Treat acne and the scars left by acne and black heads.
• Improve hyperpigmentation (patches of darkened skin) and Improving age spots.
• Exfoliate your skin, resulting in a refreshed appearance no more dull skin
• Lessen the appearance of stretch marks.
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
• Reduce or eliminate enlarged pores
• Uneven skin tone or texture.
• Dark spots that can appear when acne starts to clear.
• (hormonal pigmentation)

Microdermabrasion is also used to improve the results gained from using anti-aging products and skin-bleaching products. Microdermabrasion allows these products to penetrate the skin more easily.  I have been using these products after the little one and will be chatting a bit more in detail about those next time.

For a more intense treatment we can include a light peel or Skin Rejuvenation Laser (I am doing this as well and will be chatting about that in a next article.

The Skin Rejuvenation works on lightening pigmentation, removing redness and facial veins as well as tightening the skin and pores.

Microdermabrasion helps to thicken your collagen, which results in a younger looking complexion. Collagen is a protein in your skin that’s abundant when you’re a child and makes skin appear taut and smooth. Collagen production declines as we age, resulting in looser, uneven skin.

This treatment really left my skin feeling amazing and radiant. I book an appointment at The Best Clinic every month for best results. And the hand massage and extra attention at The Best Clinic is amazing as well!

To get hold of Maryke at the Best Clinic you can dial: 021 465 2963 or 021 461 5055

OR Visit them at

23 & 25 Derry Street, Vredehoek, Cape Town

www.thebestclinic.co.za

Twitter @theBestClinic2

I am as always @Bree_Fabulous

“I’ve been training hard these past few weeks to put myself in the best possible condition to run well and defend my titles over the next week”, said Bolt at the PUMA JAAA Press Conference.

“Everyone knows that the Championships are the most important for me.  That is what I train for.  The one off races are important but the medals and titles are given out at the Championships.  My racing season wasn’t ideal this year but I have great confidence in my coach and his ability to get me into shape at the right time.”

“Training is so important, I don’t think people realise sometimes how much work goes in to put an athlete in the condition needed to compete on the World stage.  It’s a lot of hours on the track and in the weights room.  It sometimes looks easy on the track but there is a lot of hard work done behind the scenes to get there.

“Beijing was where it all started for me at the Olympic Games in 2008, I have great memories of this city and the stadium.  It’s great to be back here, I’m looking forward to getting on the track on Saturday.”

Usain Bolt has worked closely with PUMA for more than a decade, with the Global Sports brand equipping him with innovative running and training wear.  PUMA has recently introduced the IGNITE Runner and XT training shoe that Bolt wears when training on the track and in the gym.

IGNITE is PUMA’s most responsive running shoe, designed for maximum energy return, comfort and durability. Powering every stride is IGNITE Foam, a proprietary foam which provides responsive cushioning and optimal rebound. IGNITE Foam is a PU blend created based on extensive research of high-energy return and longer durability.

The all-new IGNITE XT is a cross-training shoe geared for athletes looking to maximize energy and movement throughout their high intensity workouts. The full-length flex groove enables fast and dynamic multi-directional movement. Additional heel thickness on the medial and lateral sides support side-to-side movements.

@PumaSouthAfrica

@Bree_fabulous

@thejogblog

Vita Coco contains one single ingredient: fresh coconut water. The coconut water used comes from young green coconuts and is bursting with naturally occurring electrolytes including high levels of potassium (potassium helps prevent cramping). It’s a great way to re-hydrate whether on the go, after a gym session or even as a pick me up after a heavy night out!

With no colourants, preservatives or flavourings and never produced from concentrate, some say it’s just like sticking a straw in a coconut!

Vita Coco launched in South Africa on the June 29th, kicking off with an exclusive retail partnership with in over 300 Woolworths stores. Vita Coco is available in four tasty flavours – Vita Coco Natural Coconut Water, Vita Coco Lemonade, Vita Coco Coconut Water with Pineapple, and Vita Coco Coconut Water with Peach & Mango. This refreshing nutritional drink comes in two re-sealable pack sizes: 330ml for on the go; and 1 litre for take home consumption.

“We are very excited about Vita Coco’s launch in South Africa and the potential for this market. Vita Coco Coconut Water is one of the fastest growing drinks in the non-alcoholic beverage category across the globe as more and more people look for healthier beverages. We see South Africa as a market that already clearly understands the importance of living a healthy, active lifestyle and we believe that Vita Coco can offer a unique proposition in the market for consumers looking for a more natural beverage. The Vita Coco brand today is sold in over 30 countries with a growing brand equity globally – this is resulting in consumers globally looking for Vita Coco. “, says Giles Brook, CEO of Vita Coco EMEA.

Vita Coco is available at WOOLWORTHS Stores nationwide and retails from R21.95 for the 330ml and R49.95 for the 1 Litre.

Follow them on twitter @VitaCocoZa we are on @thejogblog and I am @bree_fabulous

When you unpack the box you will find two smaller cups one with a handle one without, a larger cup and the motorised unit(body) as well as two power-blades one for milling and one for blending. Two of the cups come with a screw on stay fresh lid and a removable screw on handle whilst the other cup has a standard handle to make your juice/smoothie even easier to drink right after blending. Convenience has really been taken into account with the design of this product.

How It Works

The concept is that normal juicers extract the juice of the fruit/vegetable and gets rid of the skin/pips of the plant which is the most nutritious part in most cases. The NutriBullet uses the whole fruit/plant and makes the nutrients available for digestion due to the powerful motor and blade which liquifies even the seeds of grapes and watermelon for example. Building the perfect NutriBlast smoothie works on a standard ratio of 50% greens, 50% fruit and about two/tree table spoons of what they call a “booster” this can be any of the super foods like goji berries, Flax Seeds, Almonds etc. to read more about super foods here. Its also important to fill the mixing cup with water enough to cover all the ingredients and some ice to make sure your drink is nice and chilled.

The milling blade can be used to mill seeds and grains for all sorts of uses like sprinkling over cereal or in my case making an amazing face mask using Honey, Oats, Yoghurt and Lemon read more here.

The pack comes with a very informative book with many recipes, nutritional information as well as an eating plan. I have found so many recipes which I loved ranging from detox to inflammation cures to Vitamin C for flu and the list just carries on. I have also build my own with the fruits and veg I love the most and have really enjoyed the product a lot as its quite flexible.

What I love about the product

• Super easy to clean – no actually its unbelievable
• Makes it easy to incorporate 6 helpings of raw fruit and veg into your diet
• The unit is relatively affordable
• Uses whole fruit and veg to get maximum out of the juice/smoothie
• Perfect snack for in-between meals
• Increases fibre intake
• Small and compact
• Clever design, with the dome easily converting into a storage unit or cup to drink from
• The juice keeps you full really long and makes you eat less during mealtimes. I can really see how this product can assist with weight-loss

Whats not so great

• Ingredients can work out quite expensively especially the superfood. (these days thats all I seem to be buying is super-duper-food for my NutriBullet #obsessed
• If you are someone who struggle with vegetables it will take a bit of getting used to but once you are you will be hooked.
• I am concerned at the amount of fruit that I actually consume as I get a bit carried away with making smoothies and might be overdoing the carbohydrates a bit so one should just keep an eye on that. My overall verdict is that the product is really something I would recommend to anyone who wants to lose a bit of weight or who just want to be healthier in general. WIN!!!!You too can stand a chance to win this month simply by sharing this article and telling us what you like the most about the NutriBullet.  Winner will be announced on the 7th of September 2015.  Watch the Video below and see how simple it is.

You can also follow Nutribullet South Africa on @NutribulletSA

Yours in health xx BW