The lockdown that started almost a year ago has had horrible effects on people’s physical and mental health. With the reduced time spent outside moving, socializing, training, and having fun, levels of chronic illnesses and obesity have risen, just like the rates of mental health issues. Though there aren’t many ways to combat the situation until the vaccines get rolled out and herd immunity is reached, there are a couple of things you can do not to become the worst version of yourself.

One of these is martial arts training. Yes, most countries have lockdown restrictions that affect most martial arts schools, so most people reading this article won’t have the option to start training. However, that doesn’t mean all is lost. One can still start to train in martial arts, at least some basic movements, while at home. In this article, I will go through why I think it is a great idea to take up some form of martial arts training until the lockdown lasts. If you are interested, read on for more!

Martial Arts Training: Health Benefits

First, let’s go through the basic list of health benefits you can expect to see if you start martial arts training. The first and most obvious one that everybody is aware of, even if they have not trained a second in their lives, is physical strength and fitness.

You can start training martial arts at home by not teaching yourself techniques at first but doing strength and conditioning training, which can prepare you for effectively training the art of your choice. You can do knuckle pushups if you are interested in starting some striking art to increase your wrist stability and strength, or perhaps all variations of squats and jump rope practice if you are looking to go into Taekwondo.

Whichever art you choose, you could build muscle by training it, which will result in better mental health, improved looks, better breathing, and just general fitness. It also relieves stress, which is one of the main factors of all sicknesses developing during the lockdown, so that is something to look forward to.

Aside from muscle strength and fitness, you can get amazing benefits like improved spatial coordination, better mental health, hand-eye coordination, improved reflex speeds, stability, joint strength, bone density, and the list goes on.

Health Benefits of Training During the Lockdown

Okay, martial arts are healthy and all, but why is it important to start training some form during the lockdown? Can’t it wait?

Well, the problem is that most people say this for almost every sort of movement now. Ever since staying home on your couch all day has become the moral thing to do, many people have found it a lot harder to start moving.

Martial arts training might be a great way to get out of this hole since it isn’t only training for the sake of training, but it also is something interesting. Martial arts have histories, philosophies, characters, and personalities, which add up to make it more than just a form of physical exercise.

This can draw more people in than, for example, traditional bodybuilding at home could. Much more people are willing to train something interesting rather than do a couple of push ups each day.

What this allows for is a sense of purpose and a new goal to be set, for example. This is great for anyone’s mental health since it will not allow the person to slump back into their chair and contemplate their existence anxiously. Instead of such a miserable life, one can get up and learn something new while also keeping their body moving.

Aside from the effects it can have on mental health, it can also profoundly impact physical health. Martial arts training can improve many aspects of human health (as mentioned earlier). From lung capacity (which is important in battling the coronavirus) to cardiovascular health, and even increased energy and mood throughout the day can all be convincing reasons for someone to pick up on a hobby like this one at home while the lockdown lasts.

How to Train at Home?

The first and most important thing is to clarify that martial arts are not a simple business. They are usually tough to learn, let alone perfect, so don’t expect to be a Bruce Lee after a week of training (or even 6 months).

The absence of a trained professional who can see exactly the mistakes you are making and correct them in a personalized fashion just for you to learn is something that makes martial arts training very difficult on your own.

There are many details to every movement that there is probably no book that holds the proper information for learning it. However, that doesn’t mean you cannot start to learn some basics.

First, learn the so-called kihon, which are the most basic, fundamental building blocks of most karate arts and related ones. Kihon consists of the basic punches, kicks, blocks, and movements one must know to execute techniques and katas properly. Kihon can be learned at home to some extent, so if you have the motivation to work out and train in the time of the lockdown, make sure you start with these.

Once you have these learned, it is time to search for a training partner to spar using techniques you see in videos or read in books. It would help if you took it slow since injuries can easily happen, and since there is no trained professional to watch, you can learn the wrong movements quite easily.

Nevertheless, until you get to a moderate-beginner level, the gyms and dojos will probably open up, so you can go to proper training. However, at that point, you will be proud of yourself for having some basics already learned and settled in your mind.

ADAM Grooming Atelier brings old-world craftsmanship and grooming rituals and updates them for the modern world. At ADAM, there is a lean into the history and mastery of the Turkish barber. Since 2016, the award-winning ADAM Atelier has created 7 uniquely designed spaces in London, where men can go to escape, replenish and emerge feeling nurtured and groomed for city life

“We founded ADAM for the modern gentleman who values craft, tradition and artistry.” says Esat Kolege and Oytun Pakcan, Founders of ADAM, “Our clientele reflect the world we live in, whether it’s passion for science, art, commerce or sport, every ADAM man is connected in their ambition and desire to experience rituals that broaden the horizon.”

Founded in 2016 by Esat Kolege and Oytun Pakcan, both from finance backgrounds, who felt there was a gap in the market for a modern barber shop with the traditional skills that they had experienced from the Turkish barbershops growing up. Both are passionate about cities, modern design and culture and believe in creating unique experiences with impeccable service. ADAM helps men to relax and re-set from an increasingly stressful daily grind.

ADAM have refined and developed a range of services from the hot towel wet shave to beard reshaping, hot towel press and head and neck massage, through to modern skin fades. Customers can choose from a traditional haircut which includes a consultation, wash, cut, dry, second wash, hot towel, friction scalp massage, dry, finish and style, to new grooming services such as facials & manicures.  Guests can unwind with a freshly brewed Turkish coffee, an expertly crafted old fashioned or perhaps a Japanese whisky on the rocks from the Atelier’s in-house bar.  

ADAM embraces the history of the Istanbul barber shop, celebrating this hub of craftsmanship. Like the earliest artisans, ADAM’s talented barbers have acquired their expertise through years of experience and apprenticeship from the roots of the Roman barbering traditions to modern day practice. Whether you’re stepping into one of the Ateliers in London or New York, your time spent lets you indulge in the artful hands and discerning eye of the house barbers, ensuring you walk out feeling sharp, fresh and ready for city life.

ADAM is opening a newly designed atelier in the Men’s Superbrands dept in Harrods just before Lockdown.

The Atelier is designed by award-winning architect, Inanc Eray, who mastered his craft for many years with Zaha Hadid.

There will be exclusive services to Harrods, such as the hot towel wet shave to beard re-shaping.

Customers can choose from a traditional haircut which includes a consultation, wash, cut, dry, second wash, hot towel, friction scalp massage, dry, finish and style, to new grooming services such as facials & manicures.  Guests can unwind with a freshly brewed Turkish coffee, an expertly crafted old fashioned or a Japanese whisky on the rocks from the Atelier’s in-house bar.

Also launched in the latter part of the year, ADAM have created a new sustainable grooming collection that harnesses natural, organic ingredients and botanicals with proven benefits for hair, skin and wellbeing. Ingredients that have supported men through centuries in their daily ablutions.

3 Unique colognes, each scent has it’s own unique character, crafted from ingredients that have been used over time to help promote personal wellbeing.  The scents are created from raw botanicals, essential oils and spices from Anatolia.

Anatolia is crisp, green and aromatic and celebrates the forests of towering black pine trees. Wild Pine, Fir Balsam, Frankincense and Musk.

Black Sea is woody, warm and sophisticated. Infused with a Leather, Tobacco, Amber and Cedarwood essential oil blend.

Celebi is spicy, woody and exotic.  It is fused with citrusy Bergamont and luxurious hits of cinnamon  sage and ground coriander  Black Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Cinnamon and Clary Sage.

To accompany these scents the brand have spent time developing a range of grooming products that harness the invigorating, complex and nourishing ingredients that reflect the diversity of the cultures that make Turkish barbering the art form it is today.

The result is a collection that harnesses powerful essential oils that are exquisitely scented such as, wild pine, cedarwood, myrtle, and rosemary. These rare botanical ingredients have been chosen because their properties also combine natural cosmetic and dermatological benefits; be they antibacterial, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory or notable aromachological properties to soothe, balance and nurture the mind. Products such as beard oil, sea salt spray, shampoo, conditioner, facewash, clay and pomades are sourced only from the finest organic ingredients and natural plant extracts from Anatolia and the Aegean region. The products are certified organic, vegan, cruelty free and sustainably sourced.

The consistency of the daily grooming ritual supports physical and emotional wellbeing, and the artistry of this practice is a moment to savour each day, whether at the ADAM Atelier or at home. ADAM uses traditional wisdom passed down through generations and re-blends it to help you take on the demands of modern life.

Valentine’s Day dates have become so overrated and so commercialized that there is nothing romantic about them anymore. Getting a dinner date at some fancy restaurant is next to impossible, booking a getaway trip became so expensive and going to the cinema lost its charm.

So, what can you do to put back romance into the most romantic day of the year? Here’s what you can do – you can celebrate Valentine’s Day at home, by doing some of the things you like the most with that one special person.

Make Valentine’s Day romantic and enjoyable again and in the comfort of your own home. Check out these ideas that can help you create a special Valentine’s day celebration at home.

Who says that only lunches and dinners have to be special? You can make a special Valentine’s Day breakfast as well. If you’re looking for something slightly different but equally special and maybe a bit old-fashioned – try going with a good old breakfast in bed.

You can make it special by preparing romantic breakfast mealssuch as French bread, bagels, or even pancakes. Put it on a tray, add some flowers, and take the breakfast to bed!

And there you have it – a perfect Valentine’s Day date without even leaving the bed.

This will heavily depend on what part of the world you live in. If you’re on the sunnier side of the planet, you can organize a classic backyard picnic with a checkered picnic blanket and all.

On the other hand, if it’s still winter and snow is covering the ground where you live, picnic outside might seem like a bad idea. However, that shouldn’t stop you from organizing an indoor fireside picnic.

Light up that fireplace and put a nice fluffy rug in front of it. Simply set a romantic scene with little details like flowers, champagne, and a picnic basket.

And voila, a picnic for two in front of a fire without having to freeze outside! Who said that picnics are only meant for the outdoors?

Sometimes going to the cinema doesn’t seem romantic enough for Valentine’s Day date. Instead, make your own cinema for just the two of you.

Put on a romantic movie and snuggle under a cozy blanket. You can go a step further by setting up the mood with twinkly lights, popcorn, and drinks.

Movie nights can be very romantic if you put some effort and thought into organizing them!

If you can’t imagine Valentine’s Day without a dinner date, instead of trying to book a dinner reservation in some of the most expensive restaurants, try organizing a special dinner date but in your own living room. Prepare a special meal, something fancy you both like.

Set the mood by setting the table for two in the living room – light some candles, order some fresh roses online and put the champagne on ice. Make your living room look like a scene from a romantic movie. Oh, and don’t forget to play soft music in the background!

This will most definitely be a surprise for him or her on this special day!

We all want to make Valentine’s Day date special for our loved ones, but sometimes that can cost us money we don’t have. A day in a fancy spa can be so expensive that you can’t even imagine.

But that shouldn’t stop you from organizing a relaxing spa day but in the confines of your own home. Create a special spa basket with all the right things such as soaps, bath bombs, bath salts, essential oils, and other relaxing spa-related items.

Then fill a bath with water and essential oils, dim the lights, put on soothing music, prepare glasses with wine or champagne – simply recreate a romantic spa date and enjoy it with your special person!

Imagine spending one whole day playing video games with your loved one. Seems too good to be true, right? But it can become reality. If you and your loved one are fans of video games, this Valentine’s date idea will be a complete hit.

Stock up on snacks and drinks and spend the whole day playing video games you like. You can even try playing some of your favourite vintage video games, what a way to go down memory lane! Nothing will beat a date like this one, nothing!

Valentine’s Day dates don’t have to be expensive or overwhelming to be romantic and special for you and your loved one. You don’t have to buy expensive gifts or extravagant restaurant reservations to show someone you love them.

Just dedicating one day to your special someone and organizing something special for them in the comfort of your home can be the most romantic thing in the world.

Generally we are experiencing a real feeling of nostalgia at the moment, brands are tapping to a sense of our sentimentality toward our past, but in a good way, whether it be foods, toys, fashion trends or in this case watches.

In 1978, Tissot was creating a quartz timepiece model characterised by a slender case, narrow hour markers and a steel bracelet. Its wide horizontal link, typical of the era’s designs, was fully integrated with the flat, barrel-shaped case. A few years later, Tissot registered the PRX name. “PR” stands for Precise and Robust, while “X”, in Roman numerals, stands for the 10 atmospheres of depth to which the watch remains water-resistant, or a total of 100 metres.

Tissot is now launching the PRX 40 205, a reference which recalls that of the original model. This contemporary interpretation is on-trend and a credit to its predecessor. It retains all the essential characteristics, refines them, affirms them and gives them an improved finish, the quality of which is flawless. The new PRX range will initially be fitted with quartz movements, with automatic to be introduced later. The range is distinctive for its slenderness, the strength of its design and its timeless style.

“Innovator by tradition”, Tissot has always had a flair for designs that reflect their era. In the late 60s, Tissot eagerly embraced the exciting new freedom in watch shapes and launched oversize, colourful, psychedelic, pop-art watches that broke with the conformism of previous years. In the same spirit, the late 1970s saw the appearance of a series of Tissot watches that incorporated an integrated bracelet and the recently-introduced quartz movement.

At the best of times there are few of us who can resist investing in a pair of boxfresh sneakers, the smell, the fit, the rush we receive when we try them on or when someone pays us a compliment ? However, at the moment, look it’s the little things that bring us pleasure so let’s see what KLEKT Europe’s most established online marketplace for buying and selling authentic sneakers and streetwear, have to say when it comes to the HOTTEST sneakers around at the moment.

Adidas Yeezy Boost 700 Sun –

Out with the old. In with the bold, the adidas Yeezy Boost 700 Sun is the perfect addition to your spring sneaker rotation, if you can hold off wearing them that is… Straying away from his usual neutral palette, Kanye West proves his love of colour with his newest high-heat silhouette. Crafted from a combination and breathable mesh and supple suede this coveted 700 model exhibits a triple threat of vivid yellow, stealthy black finished with a sneaky hit of turquoise completing this quirky upper. Underfoot, the signature 700 Boost sole boasts a zingy ginger orange tone with matt black cartoonish drips encroaching across this eccentric design. The adidas Yeezy Boost 700 Sun is an eccentric everyday essential, perfect for perking up any fit. 

Nike Air Jordan 5 Retro Low Chinese New Year

Heating things up the Nike Air Jordan 5 Retro Low Chinese New Year is the only way to welcome in the Lunar New Year, the perfect addition to your sneaker rotation. Donning a pared-back nude pallet the creamy base lifted by hits of bold scarlet across the lace guards, sock liner and graphic additions. Sporting a supportive structure, this low-to Jordan is constructed from a medley of canvas and mesh elevating this minimalist sneaker to new heights. Built for wear and tear this silhouette is hiding a little secret, beneath its neutral walls graphic Chinese New Year inspired artwork is just asking to be displayed. Branding takes a backseat quite literally, with a lone Jumpan upfront focus is drawn to the back a colourful embroidered banner covers the heel cap sporting a tiny white Jumpman crest right at the centre. It’s all about the finer details. Moving below the signature structured sole sports a sail tone contrasted by the aforementioned red graphics complimented by the cushioned Nike Air Technology showcased via the exposed air unit. The Air Jordan 5 Retro Low Chinese New Year is keeping a few secrets, are you going to be the one to uncover them?

Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Starfish

Calling ground control, the Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Starfish is an absolute must for any avid collector, the perfect spring sneaker. This space-inspired silhouette flaunts a base of orange with a black open mesh sitting atop the construction. This unique panelling finished with bold orange piping offering an elegant and subtle contrast. Black mesh inserts add textural interest to this tactile sneaker, offset by light grey heel guards offering reinforcement to the shoes overall structure. Branding is anything but subtle for this signature silhouette, exaggerated orange and grey Jumpman motifs decorate the heel cap, tongue and insole finished with light grey lace guards culminating in an instantly recognisable shoe. Underfoot, a quartet of colours showcased across this structured sole from white exposed Nike Air Units sandwiched between black and orange inserts to the light grey painting most of the sole unit. The Nike Air Jordan 4 Starfish are guaranteed a superstar sneaker status.

Nike Dunk Low Black White 

Simplicity is key. The Nike Dunk Low Black White is a classic for a reason. Sleek, simple and timeless, a must-have retro-revival silhouette fit for any and every collection. In true Dunk fashion, the iteration sports the classic smooth leather panelling of its predecessors, donning an enduring monotone palette, you really can’t go wrong. All the classic features are here from the perforated toe box to the signature stealthy black Swoosh extending across the lateral and medial sides to the heel in one seamless motion whilst white branding hits the tongue and heel cap elevating this iconic design. Below, the clean white midsole infused with Nike Air Technology providing boundless comfort from one wear to the next. If the Nike Dunk Low Black White isn’t already at the top your list, you had better up your shoe game.

Patta x New Balance 991 Dusty Pink/Light Petrol 

Dutch by design, the Patta x New Balance 991 Dusty Pink/ Light Petrol marks the second high heat collaboration between the mom and pop sneaker brand and Dutch sneaker retailer. Leaning into softer tones, we can guarantee this will be a spring staple. Constructed from a tactile combination of buttery pig suede, smooth leather and breathable mesh the traditional 991 silhouettes elevated by a soft sartorial colourway. A combination of warm cream and pistachio overlaid with swathes of sunstone suede coming together in atheistic harmony. Unmissable branding paint the subdued silhouette, from the signature N adoring both lateral and medial sides sitting adjacent to the neatly embroidered Patta on the heel, to the dual-branded tongue and lace keeper all of which sport a clean contrasting white. Moving down to the signature 991 cushioned sole this sneaker is fit for function. Showcasing all the classic sporty elements from the ABZORB window unit to the streamlined front. The Patta x New Balance 991 Dusty Pink/Light Petrol fit for both fashion and function, what’s not to love?

Nike SB Dunk Low Court Purple 

Retro-inspired, the Nike SB Dunk Low Court Purple proves that Nike’s dunk fever shows no signs of stopping, we for one are thankful. Perfecting winter style, a rich combination of crisp white, sleek black and aubergine paints the Dunk’s smooth leather panelled structure. Less is always more with a pair of stealthy black Swoosh sweeping in on the lateral and medial sides sitting atop a base of crisp white, subtle Nike branding embellishing the tongue and heel sporting the same classic slick black colour scheme. Underfoot, the signature white sole is infused with pillowy Nike Air Technology ensuring each wear is as comfortable as the last. The Nike SB Dunk Low Court Purple is a must-have low top silhouette for any rotation.

SNS x New Balance M920 

A tangerine dream, the SNS x New Balance M920 sees the Scandi sneaker store pay homage to the retro dad classic, elevating the M920 silhouette new hypebeast approved heights. Go on make a little space we have a feeling you’ll be reaching for these all summer. Sporting a tactile fusion of supple pig suede and technical mesh this sporty silhouette dons a bold palette of light and dark orange with contrasting hits of rich forest green and stealthy black makes for a burst of retro nostalgia. Signature branding decorates the vivid upper, from the iconic New Balance N sitting on the lateral and medial side to the subtly disruptive lemon toned embroidered logos embellishing the tongue and heel cap. Underfoot, a classic M920 ENCAP infused midsole exhibits a muted sail uniting this superbly discordant sneaker. The New Balance M920 x SNS, orange you glad we introduced you?