When it comes to fitness trackers, it's surprisingly hard to design a real all-rounder that offers in-depth enough stats, but also an easy-to-navigate interface that makes incorporating movement into your day-to-day more manageable.

That's why when I heard that Huaewi had launched their new GT Runner 2, an ultra-precise, GPS-backed fitness tracker, I couldn't wait to try.

As a runner, my interest was immediately piqued when I heard the watch had been designed by Eliud Kipchoge and team. It's fair to say that the world's fastest marathoner, two-time Olympic champion, and the only human ever to run a sub-2-hour marathon, should know a thing or two about what makes a good running watch, and I was eager to see what features he'd incorporated into the design.

Speaking at a press conference in Madrid on the launch, he said, "As an elite runner, the first thing you need to be able to see is your pace. On the GT Runner 2, you can see your pace on the interface as you're running, and it'll also predict your 5k, 10k, half-marathon and marathon times based on your runs logged. It'll also tell you other important metrics, like if your heart rate is high - it works with your body."

"The predictions are shockingly accurate - the watch can coach you."

Sharing his desire to make more advanced tracker technology available to the masses, he reflected on how running is for everyone and how tech should make movement easy, which is exactly what this watch aims to do.

For my full Huawei GT Runner 2 review, keep scrolling. And be sure to check out our guides to the best fitness trackers and the best FitBits, while you're at it.

What is the Huaewei GT Runner 2?

The latest fitness tracker launch from Huawei, and their most advanced running watch to date, the GT Runner 2 has been in the making for years. Incorporating a "TruSense" heart rate sensor, built-in route design capabilities, and a redesigned 3D antenna array for best-in-class location accuracy in one elevated design, it's got a lot to offer.

With a touch screen and physical buttons to navigate around the in-watch apps, it also seamlessly syncs to your calendar, calls, and banking, meaning you can pay on-the-go with the tap of your watch.

What I liked about the GT Runner 2

I've been testing the GT Runner 2 for two weeks now, and honestly? It's hard to fault. The design is elevated, the usability intuitive, and the data spot on (I wore my Garmin alongside it for many runs and workouts, and most of the data came back near identical). I tested on runs, strength training workouts, Pilates, and walks, and found it easy to use for all types of movement.

As someone who values style as much as substance (what can I say? I like a watch that looks nice), I was immediately drawn to the orange, purple and pink ombre design of the Dawn Orange colourway. I love that the strap colourways match the watch interface, too, although fear not - if orange isn't for you, there are three colourways available in total (Midnight Black and Dusk Blue). They're all as striking as the next, and you can tell that the design team have poured a lot of energy into making the watch lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and something that won't clash with your day wear.

It doesn't compromise on functionality, either - it's comfortable, thoughtfully designed, and surprisingly accurate, with an impressive in-built GPS system and navigation capabilities that the team are claiming are "better than Garmin."

After two full weeks of testing, I'm still yet to need to charge it - surprising, given I workout most days and have been tapping around on the watch to snoop through its various functions. And on that note, the interface is surprisingly simple to navigate - after around ten minutes or so of figuring out where everything is, I feel I've got the hang of starting workouts, checking my steps and stress levels, and even using more advanced features, like the emotional well-being check-in and pulse-wave arrhythmia analysis.

I like the movement prompts that it sends you throughout the day - particularly helpful for when I've been sitting at my desk for too long, or when I'm in an editing hole that's distracted me from any movement in a while. It's also pretty good at noticing when you're moving but have forgotten to start your workout, too, buzzing on your arm to ask if you'd like to start recording your session.

I also rate the in-built stress feature and the fact that the watch will prompt you to do some breathing exercises if it notices your heart rate has been raised for a prolonged period of time sans exercise.

One final feature that deserves a special shout-out: The Intelligent Marathon Mode (or "IMM," as the brand is calling it), a feature spearheaded by Kipchoge and the DSM-Firmenich Pro Running Team. Designed to help you hit a personal best in your next race, it's essentially an AI-driven "bespoke" plan based on your fitness data from watch collects, and similar to that of Garmin and Coros.

What's not so good about the GT Runner 2?

I'm die hard Garmin user - I've had my Forerunner 935 for around ten years now, and have never swayed, I love it that much - so it'd take a lot to convince me to move full-time.

I did feel the GT Runner 2 lacked a tiny bit of depth in regard to its run capabilities. It's undoubtedly one of the best options on the market if you're someone who's mindful of their daily movement, does a range of workouts, and is keen to track steps, standing time, and stress levels. I'd also recommend it for beginner runners or first-time marathoners, as it's far easier to use than my Garmin and as accurate.

But for marathon runners chasing personal bests who need easy access to the nitty-gritty of their cadence, heart rate, and pacing zones, I found the Garmin interfaces more intuitive and the data more in-depth.

This design, for me, is most similar to an Apple Watch - bright, light, and cheerful, with all the right prompts and reminders - a great all-rounder.

Is the GT Runner 2 worth the money?

At £350, I think the Huawei GT Runner 2 is well priced. Slap bang in the middle of Coros and Garmin pricing, it's an investment, but one in your health - and who can argue with that?

It's also a seriously elevated design, which makes the investment worth it, in my opinion.

Our Editors' favourite fitness trackers

As someone who uses headphones every single day, finding the perfect pair has long been at the top of my priority list.

I'm a Social Media Editor, you see, so I spend a lot of my time editing videos and audio files. That's why, when it comes to headphones, I'm particularly fussy - you can't spend upwards of half of your day every day with pods that make your ears ache or fall out every time you move.

My headphone non-negotiables are pretty basic - they need to be noise-cancelling, comfortable to wear, and simple to set up and use. Which sounds straightforward, right?

Wrong. I'm yet to find the perfect pair. Which is why, when I was given the opportunity to review the Apple AirPod Pro 3s earlier this year, I jumped at the chance. Promising the world’s best in‑ear active noise cancellation, clearer audio and longer battery life, I couldn’t wait to pop them in and put them through their paces.

They've just launched several new features - more of which I'll get into, below - but the ones I was most intrigued to test all centred around ear health. New roll-outs, including Loud Sound Reduction, a scientifically validated Hearing Test, and a clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature, all piqued my interest, as someone who's long been conscious that hearing is one of our most precious senses (and one that's often overlooked until it's too late).

For my full review after two months of testing, keep scrolling - and don't miss our edit of the best exercise headphones, while you're at it.

Airpods Pro 3 Review: "A gamechanger for ear health."

What's so special about the new Apple Airpod Pro 3's?

Earlier this year, Apple announced the AirPods Pro 3 launch, taking the already popular headphones and giving them an upgrade. The AirPods 3 claim to give the world's best in-ear Active Noise Cancellation, removing up to 2x more noise than the AirPods Pro 2, and 4x more than the original AirPods Pro. On top of that, they also updated the design to ensure they fit even better in your ear and give more ear stability during workouts from HIIT classes to yoga sessions. Another brand new feature is that users are now able to measure their heart rate and track over 50 different workout types. The AirPods 3 promise to deliver an upgraded experience for their users, and I was excited to give them a try for myself.

What I thought of the Airpod Pro 3's

Set up and fit

First impressions are key when it comes to tech, and in this case, that all starts with how easy it is to connect to your devices. I hadn’t had AirPods since the OGs, and when it came to using Bluetooth, I just assumed it would be the same situation. However, I was proved wrong. After about five minutes of trying to find the Bluetooth button, I finally Googled a video tutorial.

Note for the uninitiated - the newer model AirPods don’t have an actual button; rather, a touch panel on the front of the case, which you touch to turn on Bluetooth. I can’t blame the AirPods for this confusion, though, and can admit it was user error and my lack of up-to-date tech knowledge, and once they connected, it was smooth sailing.

In terms of fit, because these AirPods sit inside your ear, it’s super important that the earbuds fit properly so they don’t fall out, and the sound quality is optimal. Apple provides a range of different-sized earbuds so you can try them to get the best fit. Finding the right fit is particularly important, as the noise-cancelling feature won’t work if they aren’t inside your ear far enough - something I learnt the hard way on a noisy tube ride. All I had to do was size down, and problem solved.

Sound quality and noise cancellation

I feel like what really sets this model apart compared to the older ones is the sound quality and noise cancelling. In the past, when I’ve worn my 2nd Gen AirPods on the tube, I’ve had to pause my podcast - or ultimately just miss part of the episode - because I couldn’t hear it at all.

However, the AirPods Pro 3 have up to four times - yes, four! - the amount of active noise cancellation than the original AirPods Pro and AirPods 4, and it really shows. The noise cancelling isn’t only helpful on my commute but also in the office, to drown out the distractions around me.

When writing this article, in fact, I popped in my AirPods and turned on noise cancelling with no music, and it allowed me to fully concentrate on my work. And when I play music, I note a noticeable improvement in sound quality, thanks to the custom-built driver and amplifier that work with the H2 chip within the AirPods. The sound is super crisp and high-definition, meaning I can listen to old-school Justin Bieber with complete precision.

Charging and battery

Nothing is more annoying than hearing the low battery alert when you’re in the middle of a walk, or worse, in the middle of a one-woman concert. Thankfully, the AirPods Pro 3 have 67% more battery life compared with the AirPods Pro 2, which means up to eight hours of listening time on a single charge (enough to listen to the Lily Allen West End Girl album ten times).

In terms of charging, they only take one hour to fully charge - so if you’re like me and always forget to charge them, you only need to remember an hour before heading out, and you’re good to go.

Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection

What I was really excited about reviewing was the Hearing Aid function, and quite frankly, many people in my life were excited about the prospect of me getting help with my hearing as someone who's complained about their hearing (or lack of) in the past.

Again, a bit of background info for you: the Hearing Aid function was designed for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, and is determined by a simple hearing test within the Health app on your phone. Once I updated my phone to iOS 18, I was able to take the test, and to my surprise, it claimed I did not, in fact, have hearing loss, which has given my partner endless ammunition to declare I just have selective hearing when it comes to him.

However, I was too interested not to try out the Hearing Aid function, so I gave it a go anyway. Once switched on, the mode acts to amplify the voices around you, helping you gain clarity in conversation. According to the experts I spoke to at Apple at the product launch, “Mild to moderate hearing loss affects millions of people in the UK, with research showing that untreated hearing loss can affect a person’s overall health and wellbeing, including an increased risk of dementia and social isolation.”

I think it’s so important that they’re dedicating more resources to ear health. Although the Hearing Aid function isn’t designed to replace a hearing aid, it’s perfect for someone who needs extra help with hearing in loud restaurants or other noisy places.

In the same vein, I also really loved the “Hearing Protection” feature, which is intended to protect your ears from excessively loud noise. Once I moved to London, I couldn’t believe how loud - and often overwhelming - the underground was, and this function has made my tube journeys far more pleasant. It’s great knowing that my ears are protected.

Final thoughts?

After testing the AirPods Pro 3 for two months, I can confidently say that I’m a fan - they are a massive step up from my old AirPods.

I love my over-ear headphones, but when I’m already lugging my laptop to and from the office, sometimes I prefer to keep my headphones as light as possible, and so the lightweight AirPods are the perfect addition to my daily routine.

They were a bit fiddly to get set up, but worth it in the long run. I also commend Apple for putting ear health on people’s radars and at the centre of their tech innovations.

So, if you’re looking for a pair of headphones to make your commute clearer, solo concerts louder, and simultaneously protect your ears, these could be the ones for you.

Shop MC UK approved health tech now:

Loop Earplugs have gone seriously viral in recent months, taking over many a TikTok feed.

The brand retails in more than 150 countries and has sold over 15 million products since it launched in 2016. And, with rumours the earplugs are worn by superstars spanning Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, and Ariana Grande, and McLaren athletes Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, you can see why.

A firm Gen Z favourite, the minimalistic, in-ear designs promise to seamlessly filter out background noise at concerts, on the tube, or in any loud or overstimulating situation. They're an easy-to-use, wearable solution that's practical, calming, and useful for all-important ear health, too.

Sure, ear health might not be the sexiest of topics, but Loop are really reshaping the space in that regard. Traditionally, earplugs have been either bulky or uncomfortable, with the best reserved for those playing or working at gigs. But Loop, one design at a time, is changing this. Case in point: tens of thousands of Swifties donned the earplugs for her Eras tour last year, taking to TikTok to share their positive experiences.

I was intrigued after seeing a fellow journalist review the in-ear plugs at Glastonbury last summer. Being honest, I'd never considered trying earplugs before that, Loop's or otherwise, despite the brand's clever marketing and clear success. I just couldn't imagine myself using them, and was sure they'd remain at the bottom of my trusty Uniqlo festival crossover bag.

But something in me switched when, shortly after my 30th birthday, a friend asked me if I'd like to go to a festival with her over the summer. It wasn't my usual type of music; rather, lots of DJ sets and drum and bass. Now slightly older, wiser, and more in tune with my body, I knew I'd find it a little overstimulating and also didn't want to be hitting the hay with deafening ringing in my ears.

So I invested in a pair of Loop earplugs, packing them with my other festival-essentials-of-a-30-year-old (read: copious amounts of hand sanitiser, tissues, electrolyte satchets, and blister plasters).

For my honest review of the viral new wellness must-have, keep scrolling. And to shop the best Loop earplugs, don't miss our dedicated buying guide.

I tried Loop earplugs for a festival this summer - and they haven't left my bag since

What are the Loop experience earplugs?

While there are plenty of different Loop designs, I tried the Loop Experience 2, earplugs specifically designed for nightlife and live events. As Loop co-founder Maarten Bodewes explains, "they reduce noise up to 17dB without distorting sound quality and help to protect your ears in loud environments, while still allowing you to hear music and conversations clearly."

This has been scientifically proven to prevent long-term hearing damage. "Exposure to 100 dB of sound for longer than fifteen minutes can cause hearing damage," Bodewes goes on. "Festivals are usually around 97 decibels, meaning it could take just 30 minutes before you sustain hearing damage. Nightclubs are usually at 100 decibels, and rock concerts can be the loudest at roughly 104 decibels, proving the need for proper hearing protection when attending events such as these."

Other designs from the brand span the Experience 2 Plus, offering Experience 2’s signature noise reduction with an added "Loop Mute" - a removable, flexible silicone insert that can be added to provide an extra 3dB of noise reduction.

How do the Loop earplugs work?

Bodewes continues: "With Experience 2 earplugs, users can benefit from safer sounds, whilst still enjoying the music. Most earplugs block sound, but Loop Experience 2 earplugs filter sound rather than block it. This way, music and speech remain clear, just less loud and at a safer level to protect your hearing. It helps prevent ringing in your ears the day after and reduces the risk of hearing damage."

To achieve a clear and balanced sound, Loop designers combine a couple of key factors: an advanced filter and personalisable ear tips that close your ear canal.

What's the Loop earplugs USP?

Loop earplugs are pretty unique in that there aren't many competitors that both work well and look good, too. They're stylish and effective - something that's actually quite rare in the world of earplugs.

Wondering where the idea came from and when the company first launched? "I co-founded Loop in 2016 with my childhood friend and fellow engineer Dimitri O. We'd developed tinnitus after a night out and felt frustrated by the lack of earplugs that looked, felt, and sounded good."

While the product was originally designed to be used in nightclubs and at concerts and festivals, it soared in popularity during the pandemic for other uses. "Customers began using them for focus, sleep, and managing noise sensitivity, which led to the 2020 launch of Loop Quiet, sparking a revenue jump to €12.2M in 2021," Bodewes goes on.

My honest Loop earplug review

I first heard of Loop earplugs earlier this year, after seeing a fellow journalist rave about them after wearing them to Glastonbury festival. Their review was straightforward and succinct - the earplugs had been a game-changer for them at the festival, allowing them to enjoy the music without the distraction of chatter from the surrounding crowd or ringing in their ears as they tried to fall asleep.

So, come August, as I headed to my first festival of the summer, I decided to give them a go. I opted for the Loop Experience 2, which is specifically designed for live music events. The festival had a lot of DJs playing, and I knew that I'd need some tools (read: earplugs, hand sanitiser, and my emotional support water bottle) on hand to stop me from feeling overwhelmed.

When the Loops arrived, I was instantly impressed by the design. They're sleek, shiny and actually quite stylish, and come in a range of colourways (I opted for the gold, to match my jewellery). They also come with a handy carry case to make it easier not to lose them.

Day one of the festival rolled around, and I popped the Loops in as we headed towards the main stage. I hadn't had the chance to read the instruction manual, but usage was pretty intuitive - they pop straight into your ear and are impressively subtle, meaning you can't actually notice you're wearing them most of the time. I also liked that they come with a handy loop, which makes putting them in and taking them out pretty seamless.

They couldn't be more different to the more traditional foam earplugs I've tried in the past, which never seem to fit my ear shape and always end up popping out mid-use. The closest parallel I can draw is to some of the in-ear running earbuds I've tried in the past, but these are far better suited to environments like a festival, as you can still hear pretty much everything that's going on around you without the sound being overwhelmingly loud.

Wearing the Loop earplugs for the festival changed my whole experience - I could hear the music without distractions and went to sleep easily most nights without ringing in my ears. They made live music softer without compromising on sound quality, ensuring that the bass sounds less invasive.

I have to be quite careful with which headphones I use, as I have sensitive ears. Many are quite painful or leave a dull ache. But not my Loops - they're super comfortable, easy to use, and surprisingly effective at blocking out surrounding noise.

The biggest surprise of my four-day test, though, was how much less overwhelmed I felt in large crowds or noisy spaces. As someone who's suffered with anxiety for most of their life, I don't think I realised how much loud noises can impact my mood. Popping in the plugs when passing through particularly busy stretches or packed parts of the crowd put me at ease and impacted my entire mood - so much so, I've been using them on the tube to and from work ever since.

The only con I can note is that they do impact how loudly you talk. As you can largely only hear the musician on stage and yourself talking, the sound of your own voice is almost amplified when you have the earplugs in. Both of the friends that I spent the weekend with at the festival kept joking about how quiet I was, and it was only when I popped them in on the tube with my husband a few days later and saw his reaction (he literally couldn't hear a word I was saying because I was speaking so quietly) did I realise that it hadn't been the volume of the music at the festival drowning me out - rather, the earplugs were, as my friends had said, making me talk more quietely.

For anyone who's on the fence about investing in a pair of Loop earplugs or worries they won't use them, know this: looking after your ears should be as important as wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes. Only earlier this year, the World Health Organisation warned of a looming crisis: by 2050, a staggering 2.5 billion people face hearing impairment, costing the global economy $980 billion annually if left unaddressed. "Sounds shape everyone’s life – no matter your age, background, job or lifestyle. Whether it’s for focus, better sleep, or enjoying loud events without ringing in your ears the next day, Loop earplugs are designed to fit seamlessly into your routine and take control of the sound around you," concludes Bodewes.

Shop Loop earplugs now:

Hands up if, like me, your teenage years were plagued by irregular or absent periods, oily skin resulting in stubborn and persistent acne, and thinning hair?

As my twenties rolled around, despite getting used to the more physical symptoms and accepting them as part of my daily "norm", I struggled with mood swings, debilitating and unexplained fatigue, and daily brain fog.

If you hadn't already guessed, all of the above are common symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), an underfunded and underresearched female health condition that one in five women in the UK (20%) are thought to have. I myself was diagnosed in a starkly lit doctor's office at the age of fourteen, and sent on my way with little information about what the condition actually was or how it would impact my life.

Sadly, the symptoms manifested in all areas of my life. I was always tired, despite getting 8+ hours of sleep every night. My skin was consistently angry, despite regular dermatologist appointments and mindfully tracking both my sugar and carbohydrate intake (which isn't necessarily the answer, by the way). And I felt like I could gain weight from simply looking at a bowl of pasta, when other friends who were far more sedentary could eat whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted.

The list of ways PCOS can impact your life goes on and on, with data also proving that women with PCOS are at a higher risk of eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Recent research even indicates that PCOS can affect brain function and cognitive abilities.

I decided something had to change during my late twenties. Alongside starting to think about the impact of PCOS on fertility and my chances of conceiving in the future, I was, quite frankly, tired of feeling tired all of the time. And while it took a few years to ease my symptoms and tailor my lifestyle to my condition, a handful of products have been absolute gamechangers - and MyOva's Myoplus supplement is one of them. I've been supplementing it for nearly three years now, and month by month, it's been absolutely invaluable in reducing my inflammation, improving my insulin resistance, and balancing my hormone levels.

If you're in the throes of PCOS, know this: you're not alone, and this supplement could work wonders. Don't be overwhelmed by the TikTok videos or pseudo-science - instead, keep scrolling for an expert's take, and my honest MyOva Myoplus review. While you're here, don't miss our other Wellness Win reviews of Artah's Cellular Hydration Electrolytes, BetterMe's viral ankle weights, and YogiBare's Acupressure Mat.

What is the MyOva Myoplus supplement?

Founded in 2016 by Leila, a woman who'd struggled with PCOS symptoms her whole life, the aim of MyOva was simple: to make supplementation for women in her position that bit simpler. Her story is inspiring, albeit heartbreaking: she miscarried six times over the course of five years, all between six and 19 weeks. "It was a hugely tumultuous time," she's shared previously. "There were moments when I felt like I simply couldn’t keep trying – and failing – to have a baby."

"After my fourth miscarriage, I decided I could no longer bear to hear another doctor tell me it was ‘just bad luck' - I was one of the 1% of women in the UK who suffer over four miscarriages. So I started researching recurrent miscarriage, especially in relation to PCOS. Finally, I came across a natural food supplement called myo-inositol. After a few months, I felt happier and my body was finally functioning properly - and it was a real lightbulb moment. Perhaps other women could also benefit from this amazing natural food supplement."

In 2017, Leila gave birth to her miracle baby, Louie, with his brother Luca arriving less than two years later. And the MyOva brand has gone from strength to strength since, helping women around the UK with not only their own fertility journeys, but their PCOS symptoms, too. "I’m so touched by the messages we receive from women whose lives we have helped to change, and I’m incredibly grateful that such a challenging personal experience has been a force for good," she goes on.

Myoplus, specifically, according to registered dietician Jodie Relf, is a supplement that "contains a combination of key nutrients that have been shown to help manage PCOS symptoms."

"These ingredients work together to support hormonal balance, insulin sensitivity, and menstrual regularity, which are all key concerns for women with PCOS," she goes on.

What are the pros of supplementing MyOva Myoplus?

Wondering what's so effective about the Myoplus formulation? And if there are any proven benefits of the ingredients?

1. Myo-inositol

Each MyOva Myoplus serving contains 4000mg of Myo-inositol, which Reif describes as "a well-researched supplement for PCOS" that's scientifically proven to balance your hormonal and menstrual health.

A type of sugar alcohol that's found naturally in the body, we need Myo-inositol to function. It supports cell structure and signalling, and plays a key role in hormone balance and fertility - but women with PCOS tend to have lower levels of it in their ovarian tissue.

"Supplementing Myo-inositol has been scientifically proven to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce elevated testosterone levels, support ovulation, and regulate menstrual cycles," she shares.

2. Chromium

"Chromium plays a role in enhancing insulin function, helping to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation in women with insulin resistance, which is one of the key drivers of PCOS symptoms," Reif goes on. Each MyOva Myoplus serving contains 100µg, and, in short, will help with the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels.

3. Vitamin B6

Did you know? Vitamin B6 can actually help to reduce PMS symptoms and, as Reif explains, "may contribute to mood stability by supporting neurotransmitter function." Each portion of MyOva contains 0.42mg to help ease physical symptoms.

4. Folate

Finally, folate has been shown to reduce insulin resistance and fasting glucose levels, as well as help support immunity and energy levels. "It also plays a crucial role in fetal development by preventing neural tube defects," shares Reif. In each recommended serving of MyOva, you're getting 200µg of folate.

Do note, though: For women trying to conceive, the recommended daily intake is 400µg, so additional folate may be needed.

Who is MyOva Myoplus best for?

Anyone with diagnosed PCOS will benefit from taking Myoplus - but especially those who are looking to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation, support hormonal balance, and regulate menstrual cycles and ovulation, shares Reif.

"It's also a great supplement for reducing PCOS symptoms, such as the side effects of elevated testosterone, like acne and hair loss," she goes on.

How can Myoplus help with PCOS symptoms specifically?

There are a whole host of ways that Myoplus can ease PCOS symptoms and elevate quality of life - but the main way it promises to do so is by improving your insulin sensitivity. In short, the supplement helps your body to use insulin more effectively, which means you'll notice reduced cravings, more stable satiety, and fewer midday hunger pangs. This, in turn, can also help with stubborn fat gain that so many women with PCOS struggle with.

It should also support ovulation and menstrual regularity, meaning your periods should become more regular and evenly spaced out. "Myo-inositol has been shown to help regulate menstrual cycles and support healthy ovulation, which is particularly important for women with irregular periods or difficulty conceiving," shares Reif.

The B6 and folate in the formulation have been shown to contribute to neurotransmitter production, which should mean you'll notice a more stable mood, fewer mood swings, and less brain fog, too.

And finally, you should see reduced testosterone and androgen levels in the body, which can improve symptoms like acne, unwanted hair growth (hirsutism), and hair thinning.

How long should women with PCOS supplement Myoplus?

Women with PCOS typically benefit from consistent, long-term supplementation with myo-inositol, shares Reif.

"While some improvements can be noticed within a few weeks, studies suggest that three to six months of daily use leads to significant improvements in insulin sensitivity, cycle regularity, and ovulation," she goes on.

I've been supplementing MyOva Myoplus for three years now - and it's honestly changed my life, as a woman with PCOS

I know what you're thinking - it sounds too good to be true, right? And I do want to front-load this review with one clear disclaimer: there's no such thing as a "cure-all" wonder supplement. That said, MyOva's Myoplus is the closest I've ever come to finding one - and I should know, as a Health Editor who's tested quite literally hundreds of supplements in her time.

Let's rewind a bit, first. I've been looking for ways to ease my PCOS symptoms since my mid-teens diagnosis, and can confirm first-hand that it's a total minefield out there. Pair the questionable, restrictive nutrition advice some "experts" dole out (no, women with PCOS don't need to cut carbs entirely) and rage-bait TikTok feels instructing you to overhaul your entire life (also not necessary), and it's hard not to feel overwhelmed.

But come the end of 2022, I was ready for change. Luckily, I'm in constant comms with some of the best experts in the business, and so I've heard nutritionists and dieticians repeatedly rave about the science-backed benefits of Myo-insitiol specifically. A friend who also has PCOS had also shared glowing reviews of the MyOva products, and so I was keen to give it a go.

Three years on, and it's hard to quantify the impact the supplement has had on my life. While it took a few months to really notice the tangible side effects - I'd always recommend testing supplements for a minimum of three months - I now sleep better and feel more energised each day. My skin is clearer than it's been in years, my brain fog is gone, and my mood is more stable.

The stubborn weight gain I'd accepted as part of life - despite being a highly active marathon runner and all-round wellness enthusiast - has slowly eased, and I now enjoy a balanced 80/20 approach to nutrition, rather than constantly restricting myself for fear of PCOS-related weight gain.

Most interestingly and importantly, at a recent full-body Neko health scan, I was told what I've dreamt of hearing my entire life: that my HbA1c is optimal at 30 mmol/mol and glucose normal at 6.5 mmol/L, suggesting excellent blood sugar control. (While the scan doesn't directly measure hormones, it does look at blood sugar levels, which can be related to hormonal function - women with PCOS tend to have a higher risk of elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance).

It makes me quite emotional to think about it, and I'll never forget the lightbulb moment when I realised that this is how most people without the condition (or another health condition impacting their daily quality of life) get to feel each and every day. Yet feeling well - finally - is something I'll never take for granted.

It's worth noting that my MyOva Myoplus supplementation also came alongside some lifestyle tweaks. Over the past three years, I've honed my sleep routine, making my bedroom a screen-free space, embraced a more PCOS-specific and inflammation-reducing diet, and educated myself on the foods that cause blood sugar spikes and, in turn, impact insulin levels. But I believe the supplementation has played a key part in getting my symptoms in check - so much so, it's the one supplement I wouldn't be without.

MyOva isn't just a product, but a promise to all women with PCOS: that we aren't alone in this.

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If you're in the market for a smart-watch-fitness-tracker combo, the chances are you'll have come across Garmin. Runners and fitness enthusiasts alike have been sporting various iterations of their fitness trackers for decades, and they're known for producing sturdy (if a little clunky) tech that serves its purpose relatively nicely.

But with the advent of their newest model, the Venu X1, Garmin have upped the ante on their offering - presumably in an attempt to compete with the (whisper it) Apples of the smart tech space.

And compete it does: at almost £700 per watch, it's a significant investment for which you and I (quite rightly) expect a lot, and on the surface, it would seem the Venu X1 delivers. It's got all the usual GPS and tracking data you'd expect, alongside more innovative functions such as nap detection (er, guilty) and breathing timers.

In truth, I've never really got on with my smart watches, preferring instead my Oura ring. So, when I was offered the opportunity to trial the model for two months, I was keen. Would the Venu X1 change my mind and transform me into a hardcore tracking fan? Keep scrolling to find out, but in the meantime, you might be interested in our guides to the best fitness trackers and the best FitBits, too.

What is the Garmin Venu X1?

Launched in June 2025, the Venu X1 is, quite literally, hot off the press. According to the brand, its USPs are that it's exceptionally lightweight (I can attest to this) and the ultra-large display, alongside the features you'd expect from preloaded maps and workout stats to health insights, including sleep and stress data.

I've previously used a ForeRunner (only while running, never on my wrist permanently), but the Venu X1 bears little resemblance to its older sibling. The ForeRunner was limited in terms of functions, but the Venu X1 has almost too many options, unless you're super into your stats (I didn't use half of them in two months!)

That said, you don't have to get to grips with everything the device has to offer if (like me) you're a bit of a technophobe. The two-inch AMOLED display is large, bright and gives you all the basics at a glance: steps, remaining battery life, time, date, heart rate and more. So, if you wanted to simply rely on that, you could - although, if so, you're probably better off saving a few hundred pounds!

Like many other high-tech wearables, the data you get out is only as good as the data you put in, so wearing the watch all day, every day, is pretty much a non-negotiable. Fortunately, it's super comfortable, and I'm amazed by how light and thin it is compared to its predecessors - especially given the impressive range of functions.

What I liked about the Garmin Venu X1

There is a lot to like about this watch, as you'd hope given the high price point. First and foremost, its sleek design sets it apart from my previous running watches, and it is light-years ahead of the clunky, plastic ForeRunner I previously owned.

It's also (I'm calling it) the most comfortable watch I've ever owned. I personally love the nylon strap with velcro fastening - no more choosing between fastening holes that are either too loose or too tight, never just right. And even during my sweatiest of days (summer '25 heatwave, I'm talking to you), the strap didn't rub or chafe at all. In fact, I forgot I was wearing it most of the time, which is a huge advantage, as to get accurate sleep and workout data, you'll need to wear it constantly. I'm someone who generally hates wearing any kind of jewellery while sleeping, finding that I get overstimulated and irritated by it, but this wasn't the case with the Venu X1.

Practically speaking, it ticks a lot of boxes, too. You can listen to music via the built-in speaker, as well as pay for your post-run matcha, all while making and receiving calls and texts, should you wish. And I have to commend the battery life: while I've read some users note it's not great, I found that it lasted well, and certainly lived up to its touted eight day life - however, you have to make sure that the display isn't in always 'on' mode, as this will drain the battery.

Aesthetics and practicalities aside, though, what I was most interested in was how the device fared when tracking activity and interpreting my stats, particularly as I'm addicted to my Oura ring and its insights.

The good news is that it tracks my runs and other workouts efficiently for the most part - although it isn't as intuitive as the Oura, and it sometimes didn't register a workout that I'd done, which was frustrating. However, it churns out some interesting data, and as it gets to know me and my lifestyle, I'm pleased to note that it's giving me decent feedback on my fitness via V02 max scores, resting heart rate, fitness age and - my favourite function - the 'body battery', which tells you how much energy and resilience you have at any given point, and allows you to tailor your activity accordingly.

In terms of what I've learned about myself and my overall wellbeing, I have to admit that there's been no big surprises (but that's probably a good thing!), most likely because I'm already tracking the same information, albeit in a different way. So, if this were your first foray into wellness tracking, you're likely to gain a lot more from the experience than I did.

All that being said, it's interesting for me to compare my devices and see how the data stacks up: when my Oura ring tells me I'm at peak resilience, the Garmin agrees, but there is a little variation in my sleep and stress data, with my ring picking up more periods of stress than the watch. However, this is only because I'm directly comparing the two, and (for the most part) they're broadly aligned.

What's not so good about the Garmin Venu X1?

Full disclosure here: I'm really not great with technology, and I did find the touchscreen-button hybrid a little confusing, at times. Also, if you don't sync the device with the Garmin Connect app regularly, some functionality drop off is noticeable (at one point, the date and time were totally wrong, and I was a t a loss with how to change them until I recalibrated via the app).

While the option to build a workout via Garmin Connect is handy, it's not as intuitive as I'd have liked. Sure, this might be down to user error rather than an issue with the device itself, but it was a touch clunky IMO.

As mentioned above, even though I've worn the watch constantly, it has missed a few workouts, and I'm still not quite sure why: I think I'll need to do a deep dive into the instructions to work it out. Call me old-fashioned, but I'd have loved an instruction booklet to come with it, too.

Is the Garmin Venu X1 worth the money?

There's no getting away from the fact that the Garmin Venu X1 is a pricey little piece of kit. If you're up for the investment, however, it does offer an excellent alternative to the Apple Watch in terms of functionality and wearability. Full disclosure: I've never actually owned an Apple Watch, but a cursory glance suggests that the two devices are pretty similar, so if it's a choice between the two, it'll largely come down to personal preference.

That said, if you're comparing the device against Garmin's previous offerings, the Venu X1 is a step up. However, I found it clunky to navigate, and it had a tendency to reset itself to the wrong time and date, which was frustrating. Overall, though, I loved how light it was, and the large display is a plus, too.

Would I buy one? Honestly, I'm devoted to my Oura ring, and I love not having my stats at my fingertips, so for me, it's a no. That said, I will continue to use the Venu X1 for tracking my workouts alongside my Oura ring, in much the same way as I used my old ForeRunner. I know this will affect the stats, but I'm ok with that.

My main takeaway is that this is an excellent fitness watch, should you want to spend the money. To get the most bang for your (considerable) buck, I'd recommend using it as more than simply a running tracker.

Our Editors' favourite fitness trackers

The wearable tech market is booming right now. We're all low-key obsessed with our stats, and good luck finding a friend who isn't wearing a tracking watch/Whoop device/insert eye-wateringly expensive tech jewellery brand here.

And the ultimate It wearable over the past year has to be the ŌURA ring. Once the preserve of celebrities (Gwyneth, Jen An, Kim K and Prince Harry have all been seen sporting the bands), the brand finally launched in the UK last year and, spoiler alert, I've been a devotee ever since.

Unlike more traditional fitness watches, the beauty of the ŌURA is that you can't see the stats until you log in to the app on your phone, which not only stops you getting distracted by notifications every five seconds, but it also means you don't have to choose between your watch and your tech.

As for functionality, the ring does a crazy amount given how sleek and inconspicuous it is. In a nutshell, the device will monitor your heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), breathing rate, activity and temperature throughout the day (and night), enabling it to create a full picture of your health and wellbeing, resulting in a daily readiness, sleep and activity score every morning. More on this below, so keep scrolling.

I'll be honest with you: despite a brief flirtation with a sports watch, I've never really been that into my stats, finding they caused me more stress, anxiety and guilt than blissful ignorance did. However, my ŌURA ring never leaves my hand. Full disclosure: I wear it more than my wedding rings (just don't tell my husband) and, other than a brief interlude when it slipped off my finger while out shopping, I'm only ever without it when it's charging. Which it does quickly and efficiently, by the way.

Keen to read more about the best fitness trackers on the market? Check out our guides to the viral Whoop fitness tracker, the Lumen metabolism tracker, and the Rise sleep app, here. Plus, you might be interested in how one MC UK health writer got on when she tried the Current Body Infrared PEMF mat, and don't miss my trial of the Higher Dose sauna blanket, too.

What is an ŌURA ring?

Shop Oura Quick Links:

• Oura Ring 4 - £349 at Amazon
• Oura Ring 4 sizing kit - £10 at Amazon
• Oura Gen3 Ring - £279 at Amazon
• Oura Gen3 Ring sizing kit - £10 at Amazon.

Even if you don't know much about them, the chances are the eagle-eyed among you may have spotted someone else sporting an ŌURA ring. Essentially a sleek and stylish ring, they look much like a standard wedding-type band, just thicker and with lights on the underside.

Here's the lowdown from the brand. "ŌURA Ring is a smart ring designed to help you better understand your body and take charge of your health, both day and night," a brand spokesperson tells MC UK. "With advanced sensors packed into a lightweight, comfortable design, the ring delivers personalised insights across sleep, activity, recovery, heart health, and stress."

The metrics are designed to give a full picture of your health and wellbeing, providing you with a readiness, sleep and activity score each morning. This is based on the insights listed above; so, if you haven't slept well, not only will your sleep score be low, but the chances are your readiness will be affected too.

In addition to these daily readings, the ring cleverly drills down into your long-term health outcomes too, as over time it calculates cardiovascular age, resilience and stress scores.

What are the pros of wearing an ŌURA ring?

There's no doubt that wearable tech has come on leaps and bounds in the last decade, with many of us owning at least one item that tracks our activity and health. According to survey data, more than 25% of UK adults now own a fitness tracker of some kind, and a recent study by researchers at The University of South Australia shows that not only are the devices popular, but they're effective too: trackers can help identify viruses (such as Covid 19) and atrial fibrillation.

And I'd say that the ŌURA ring is up there with the very best of them, for both functionality and style. But a simple fitness tracker, this isn't. Rather, it's designed to help us understand our personal health on a deeper level - no step counting, here.

One of the main pros (compared to a smart watch, for example) is the accuracy of the readings obtained. Worn ideally on an index finger, where the blood flow is closer to the surface, enables a clearer snapshot than other devices.

“Unlike wrist-based wearables, the ring allows for highly accurate readings by capturing signals directly from the finger - an area that allows for stronger, more stable signals than the wrist," the brand tells MC UK. In theory, this should make for more reliable data.

Additionally, the ring allows women to track their menstrual cycles, with features such as period prediction and cycle insights - really handy for planning ahead.

Research backs up the efficacy of the ring's sleep data, too, although it's worth noting that studies are currently limited.

Anything to be mindful of when wearing an ŌURA ring?

As touched on above, you need to consider which finger to wear the device on; the brand recommends the index, middle or ring finger of your non-dominant hand.

Regarding fit, you can order a ring sizer before choosing your ring style (and I'd say definitely do this - my first one slipped off as it was slightly too large, a costly and annoying mistake!) to ensure a snug fit. Ideally, the ring will be a Goldilocks fit: neither too tight nor too loose, as both can affect sensor accuracy.

Last but not least: be patient and consistent with wear. It takes the ring at least a couple of weeks to get to know you, and your personalised insights will improve over time. In addition, key features like cardiovascular age and chronotype will take longer to calculate, so don't rush the process.

Top tips for using an ŌURA ring

The brand advise the following tips when wearing your Oura ring:

• Be consistent. Wear your ŌURA Ring both day and night to get the most accurate long-term trends and insights. ŌURA Ring doesn’t just track your daily data - it learns from patterns over time. The more you wear it, the better it understands you, and the more informed decisions you can make.
• The more data you put in, the more you get out. Using tags is a great way to understand your data more. For example, you might feel a heavy late-night meal will make it harder to fall asleep. By tagging “late meal,” you isolate the impact. In the morning, you’ll be able to see how it impacted specific metrics, like sleep latency or deep sleep.
• Use ŌURA Advisor. Their AI-powered health coach promises to offer "deeper personalised guidance". By asking ŌURA Advisor about your scores or how to improve them, you can look at your trends to guide you as to what differences you can make on a daily basis.

I've been wearing an ŌURA ring for a year: why I'm a fan

We had a few teething problems, the ring and I, but these are 100% down to user error: I've mentioned my inadvertent loss of my first ring above - but I should note, here, that there is a handy 'find my' type function on the app, which, had my battery been charged ( I know, I know), should have enabled me to track my device.

But we move, and the second time around, I ordered a size down, which turned out to be the perfect fit. It still took me a few weeks to get used to wearing the ring regularly - something that's vital, as you'll only get out in terms of data what you put in by wearing it.

As for not having the data at my literal fingertips, I'm a fan. With my old smart watch, it was easy to get bogged down in how many steps I'd done or how high my heart rate was while working out (handy if you're wanting to "zone" your training, however - and not a feature that the ŌURA currently offers). In contrast, I tend to log on to the app every morning and evening to peruse my vitals.

Interestingly, I've learnt a lot about my sleep in the last year. I'm often (read: always) exhausted in the morning, being much more of a night owl than a lark (something my ring confirms, a few months in), but I was surprised to note that actually, my sleep quality is generally pretty solid, and my resilience is also consistently good. So, rather than feeling stressed that I'm not sleeping enough, I know now that actually, my body can cope with an occasional later-than-ideal night, and that I'm perhaps not as sleep-poor as I thought, which has taken a not inconsiderable amount of stress off my shoulders.

On the days when I'm told that my resilience is lower, I do take note of the advice to go a little easier in my workouts, and I also really like the stress metrics: I'm not as stressed as I thought (or if I am, I'm coping well).

The menstrual cycle insights have been fascinating, too. While I have a Mirena coil, meaning my periods are fairly non-existent generally, in the past couple of years, I've started having more mini-bleeds (likely down to being peri-menopausal). Whereas in the past, these would have been a total surprise, now I can track my cycle - and am pretty proud of my bang-on 30-day regularity. It also makes planning for events and holidays simple, too!

In short, (and you may have already deduced this!) I'm a huge fan of the ŌURA. I love the fact that it gets to know you the more you wear it, meaning the more consistent you are, the more accurate your data gets - for example, it's worked out that I love Pilates, so it assumes that my higher movement mornings are likely because I'm at reformer - although hilariously, it definitely thinks I do way more housework than I actually do.

For those wondering if an ŌURA ring is worth the (not small) investment, I say: absolutely.

Shop MC UK's favourite fitness trackers, here:

It's no exaggeration to say that Pilates is well and truly popping off right now. The workout of the moment, it promises to boost your core strength, muscle definition, and tone, either from a studio or the comfort of your own home. And the stand-out tool that celebrities and influencers alike seem to be raving about for upping tension and levelling up your sweat sessions? Ankle weights, of course.

I won't lie to you - as a runner who strength trains to injury-proof her body, I've not been the most consistent with my Pilates practice over the years. While I totally understood the appeal, I'd never quite found the right studio or online platform to inspire me to keep at it. Not to mention, I found the 101 different types of Pilates - from Reformer Pilates, to wall Pilates, to vertical Pilates, to Tower Pilates - somewhat overwhelming.

Last year, that changed, however, when I noticed that my favourite workout platform FIIT had rolled out Pilates sessions at home. Without the time pressure of having to head in-studio and with workout lengths of ten, 25, 40 or 60 minutes, mixing up my sessions suddenly felt attainable and appealing, rather than something I didn't have time for.

I was immediately hooked and fell in love with the slow, low burn you can get from the sessions (Pilate stereotypically incorporates micro moves, which in turn work muscle groups I don't usually target with my running or weight-based strength training). By far the best bit of my Pilates discovery, though, was the BetterMe ankle weights that I started using for my workouts around a month in.

I'd been sceptical about ankle weights before, despite seeing the likes of Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Aniston use them for their sessions. I couldn't wrap my head around how such a small amount of weight could improve my fitness. Ankle weights typically range from 0.5lb to 3lb in weight, with my BetterMe version clocking in at 1lb in total, while I lift anywhere from 10kg to 50kg at the gym.

But how wrong I was - as you'll discover below, the small but mighty weights really can be invaluable for levelling up your home workouts. But for more on why they've become one of my absolute wellness essentials, you'll have to keep scrolling.

Keen to read more about the best ankle weights on the market? Our guide will come in handy. Plus, we've got guides to the pros of using ankle weights for walking, the many benefits of ankle weights, and a full Bala Bangle review, here. More interested in Pilates generally? Don't skip our guides to how often you should do Pilates, the best Pilates exercises plus how MC UK staffers fared trying Pilates toe taps every day and leg circles every day, here.

What are the BetterMe ankle weights?

According to Victoria Repa, certified Pilates instructor, health coach, and CEO of BetterMe, the BetterMe 1 lb Adjustable Weight Bands are a simple, effective and attainable tool for adding resistance to your home workouts. "Unlike traditional fixed-weight ankle weights, our bands allow users to adjust the weight, making them adaptable for different fitness levels and workout intensities," she explains.

Plus, as Repa points out, you can choose how much weight you'd like to use each session, depending on your energy levels.

They're also non-slip, durable, and wipe clean, meaning they promise to last the long run and be an investment for life. Repa adds: "Their soft, skin-friendly fabric and secure fit ensure they stay in place during movement, while the compact and stylish design makes them easy to store."

Do note: in terms of storage and care, their website recommends wiping with a damp cloth post-use, keeping water away from the velcro straps and air drying after use, too.

What are the pros of wearing ankle weights?

According to Paola Di Lanzo, Pilates instructor and founder of Paola's Body Barre, there are loads of benefits to incorporating ankle weights into your weekly workouts. "Ankle weights are a really great way to add resistance to bodyweight exercises, helping to strengthen and tone the legs, glutes, and core without needing additional equipment," she explains. "They can make Pilates and barre movements more challenging, leading to increased muscle engagement and endurance."

Because they provide constant resistance, they also help improve stability, balance, and coordination, she goes on, by forcing the muscles to work harder during controlled movements. Repa explains: "Ankle weights can significantly enhance workouts by adding extra resistance, which helps engage muscles more deeply and improve endurance. They're particularly effective for strengthening the lower body, especially the legs and glutes, and can also be incorporated into both cardio and strength exercises."

They can be a useful tool for those struggling with injury or rehabbing old injuries, too. "Ankle weights support low-impact strength training, allowing for gradual strength progression without excessive strain on the joints," Di Lanzo concludes.

In studio, the instructor incorporates both wrist and ankle weights into their workouts to add extra spice and boost intensity. "The added resistance makes exercises more challenging and energy-demanding," she shares.

Research backs up the effectiveness of the workout tool, too, with ankle weights first being researched in the early 1990s. While it'd be useful to see more research on ankle weights specifically, one 2016 Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences study found that people who used resistance bands and ankle weights grew a kilogram of muscle mass over the 12-week trial.

However, both experts emphasise that fitness levels vary, so it’s important to start gradually with any new fitness tools and listen to your body.

Anything to be mindful of when using the BetterMe weights?

With ankle weights generally, both experts warn that they can pose risks if used incorrectly or excessively. "The added weight can increase the strain on your hip, knee, and ankle joints, which can lead to discomfort or injury, especially if used during high-impact exercises like running or jumping," shares Di Lanzo.

Plus, they can promote poor movement mechanics, encouraging excessive momentum rather than controlled muscle engagement, which can reduce effectiveness and increase injury risk, she goes on.

To minimise risks, ensure proper form during exercises to prevent overuse injuries, and avoid wearing them for prolonged periods to reduce the risk of muscle fatigue and discomfort. Her top tip? Head in-studio for a session with the tool before giving them a go at home without an instructor.

Top tips for using the BetterMe ankle weights:

According to the BetterMe website, you should bear the below in mind before starting your ankle weights workouts:

• The combined weight of the equipment should be 1% to 2% of your body weight (and never more than 3%). 
• To improve the quality of movement, consider wearing ankle weights for slow, steady walks outside.
• Don’t wear ankle weights all day - start with the minimal weight and increase it gradually if needed.
• For wide-range exercises, use lighter weights.
• Aim for three sessions of 20-minute sessions or more a week to achieve results and give your joints the time to get used to such training.

I've been using the BetterMe ankle weights for the best part of 14 months: why I'm a fan

While the viral Bala Bangles get global attention, I've grown pretty fond of my BetterMe weights for a number of reasons. They're seriously easy to use, wipe clean, simple to store, and also come in an array of cute colourways (always a plus point).

Essentially weighted bands that you secure around your wrists or ankles, the BetterMe design gets my vote as they're comfortable, versatile and compact for easy storage. They're made from iron yet covered in soft silicone to make sure they sit comfortably against your skin while still providing an ample amount of resistance for your sweat sessions.

I've tried a fair few ankle weights in my time, and many designs either have painful velcro straps that irritate your skin or dig in, distracting you from your workout, or are just a set amount of weight, offering you less flexibility for your sessions. Not with the BetterMe weights, though - you hardly notice they're there (until you really notice they're there halfway through your session).

Only cons to note? While there are hardly any negatives to the BetterMe design, there are a few things to note before you consider investing. The first, arguably minor, point, is that all of the individual weights sit on a piece of material that you secure via velcro to your ankle or wrist. This makes the weight adjustable, but does also means that they can slip off and be a bit of a faff to wriggle back on. Of course, this is on purpose to ensure you can tailor your weight to each workout, but the weights aren't the easiest to slip on and off - worth noting as a slight quirk of the design.

Secondly, the 1 lb weight option is perfect if you're a beginner or if you're at entry-level with your ankle weight workouts, but it isn't the best for progressing your strength training. As someone who's strength trained for years and been consistent with my Pilates workouts for around fourteen months, I wish I'd opted for a slightly higher weight option. That way, you can take off some of the weights when you're feeling a lower weight workout or add more on if you're up for pushing yourself.

Now, question - will you be giving ankle weights a go?

Shop MC UK's go-to Pilates kit now:

Here's why discovering the real Tuscany should be on your travel bucket list for 2025.

Nestled in the picturesque countryside near Siena, Fattoria di Cavaglioni is a charming villa owned by the family Galli-Galeotti Ottieri, who have lovingly maintained this family-run haven for generations. This large organic farm, set in a walled park on the edge of the flourishing village of San Rocco a Pilli, offers guests a true taste of Tuscan life. The property features a sun deck, a natural pool, and a lush garden, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying a leisurely meal outdoors. You can indulge in their high-quality extra virgin olive oil produced from the farm’s organic practices.

At Palazzo di Piero, the family cultivates their own vineyards, producing delicious natural wines that perfectly complement their extra virgin olive oil. Their commitment to organic farming ensures that every bottle reflects the rich flavours of Tuscany while remaining environmentally friendly.

Iconic design

Step inside Fattoria di Cavaglioni, and you'll be transported to a world where history and comfort intertwine. The interior was originally created in the Empire style, in anticipation of a royal visit that never materialised. Today, remnants of this grand preparation can still be seen in the beautiful glass lights and classic wooden furniture that adorn the rooms.

The current decor strikes a perfect balance between historical charm and modern comfort. Wooden shutters filter the golden Tuscan sunlight, while plush linen upholstery adorns comfortable sofas and white lace tablecloths stand out on the dark wooden tables. The big windows frame views of the rolling countryside, adding to the rustic charm. The overall effect is one of exquisite, homely taste—a true 'home away from home' that invites relaxation and contentment.

A tranquil retreat

The landscape surrounding the farm is one of the most spiritual and serene around Siena; small woods and cypresses alternate with lawns and fields. The monumental Villa dominates the land, witnessing its historical importance through the Renaissance and Napoleonic Eras. Ancient walls enclose this building in a tranquil area with its lovely garden, vegetable garden, and farm stores.

Across the fields from the Villa are ancient farmhouses with typical Tuscan architecture. Il Colombaio, a mediaeval hamlet, houses the independent apartment Serravalle and The Tower of the 12th Century, offering beautiful views of the countryside and unlimited green areas for guests.

Food and drink

Directly opposite Villa Cavaglioni lies Ocio Giulivo restaurant, a hidden gem that no food lover should miss. This charming trattoria embodies the essence of authentic Italian cuisine, offering homemade pasta and traditional dishes that would make any nonna proud. The restaurant's warm, rustic atmosphere mirrors the hospitality you'll find at the farmhouse, creating a seamless experience of Tuscan charm. Try out the delicious organic wines produced at Palazzo di Piero alongside your meals. The extra virgin olive oil, also cultivated by the family, adds a rich depth to the dishes, showcasing the best of what their organic farming practices have to offer.

Explore Siena

Siena, just 9 km from Fattoria di Cavaglioni, is renowned for its mediaeval architecture and vibrant history. The city is famous for its stunning Piazza del Campo, where the biannual Palio horse race takes place. Visitors can explore the magnificent Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena), known for its intricate façade and square and stunning interior adorned with sculptures and frescoes.

Wander through the narrow, winding streets filled with charming shops, cafes and local artisans. Don't miss the chance to sample some traditional Sienese cuisine at local trattorias—try pici pasta or panforte, a rich fruitcake that's a regional speciality.

Events

For those seeking a venue for special events or additional accommodation options, Palazzo di Piero offers an exquisite setting steeped in history. This 16th-century Tuscan castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the rolling vineyards and olive groves of the Chianti region, is a testament to Renaissance architecture and Italian grandeur. The palazzo has been meticulously restored to preserve its original stone fireplaces and intricate tile work while offering modern amenities.

The elegant property features beautifully designed spaces that can accommodate weddings, corporate retreats and other gatherings. For more intimate affairs, the charming courtyard provides romantic settings. The Palazzo's professional event planning team offers comprehensive wedding services—from customised menus featuring local Tuscan cuisine to floral arrangements and live music coordination—ensuring that your special day is unforgettable.

With its stunning architecture and enchanting gardens in typical Italian style, Palazzo di Piero provides a magical backdrop for any occasion. The manicured Italian gardens, complete with fountains and statuary, offer numerous picturesque spots for ceremonies and photo opportunities. For accommodation, the palazzo boasts independent self-catering solutions in both the castle and farmhouses—each uniquely decorated with antique furnishings and modern comforts—ensuring a truly memorable stay for hosts and guests alike.

Location and accessibility

Cavaglioni is strategically located to reach all the most important places in central Italy. Florence is 65 km away, Rome is 270 km away and the Chianti area is easily accessible. The farm is just 1 km from the Siena-Grosseto Road (SS 223) and 9 km from Siena's centre. The village of San Rocco a Pilli, just 100 metres away, offers all necessary amenities including banks, shops, a market and traditional restaurants.

Whether you're looking to relax in the comfort of Fattoria di Cavaglioni or savour authentic Italian cuisine at Ocio Giulivo while enjoying our organic wines or host an unforgettable event at Palazzo di Piero amidst stunning scenery—the blend of historical elegance and modern comfort creates an unforgettable stay that captures the true essence of Tuscan hospitality.

For bookings and enquiries:

Phone: +39 0577 160 6571 Email: info@anfamtos.com

Ask me my thoughts on acupuncture a few years ago and I probably would have nodded along about the many benefits of the ancient practice despite having absolutely zero intention of giving it a go. I'm not scared of needles, per se, but I wouldn't exactly say the concept of having them stuck in my hands, neck, and feet fills me with joy. That said - and as is so often the case - after finally caving and giving it a go during the peak point of my training cycle for Berlin Marathon last year, I declared myself a total convert.

I went to ease muscle tension and a niggling trapped nerve in my shoulder and honestly came out feeling like a new woman. They perform magical, zen-boosting miracles in those rooms, in my humble opinion - that said, at around £60 (minimum) a pop, acupuncture simply isn't something most people can afford on a regular basis.

Eager to prolong this period of calm, I started researching alternatives that can provide the same blissful feeling of relaxation and release at home. And while there are quite literally billions of options when you search acupuncture alternatives at home (think ear seeds, massage guns and more), experts confirm that acupressure is the most similar you'll get (FYI, the difference between acupuncture and acupressure is in the name - acupuncture uses needles, whereas acupressure uses touch).

So, off I went, ordering myself a Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat and waiting patiently for it to arrive. A company founded by my friend Kat, their focus is simple: to produce high quality, sustainable and simple-to-use yoga and acupressure mats, so I knew that of all the mats on the market, I'd trust hers inherently as one of the best.

Keen to read my full Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat review? Well, you'll have to keep scrolling. If you're inspired already, don't miss our guides to the best acupressure mats, many acupressure benefits and trending ear seeds, here.

So, what exactly is the Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat? 

“An acupressure mat is a therapeutic tool designed to stimulate pressure points on the body,” shared Bina Gungah, founder of Shika Wellbeing, with MC UK previously. "Originating back to around 5,000 years ago, it has been used by both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, it’s similar to acupuncture but without the use of needles."

"The mat is typically made of foam and covered with thousands of small spikes. When you lie on or press parts of your body against the mat, these points apply pressure to your skin and muscles, promoting relaxation and various health benefits," she continues. Richmond Stace, a healthcare expert specialising in chronic pain, adds that the mats are designed “to stimulate as many acupuncture points as possible," boosting recovery and relaxation.

So what about the Yogi Bare design? Essentially a manual massage tool, the mat promises to provide natural pain relief for your neck, back, and shoulders, even easing headaches, too. If you get easily stressed or train a lot and are looking for ways to ease muscle tension at home, this could be one for you.

How does the Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat work?

Wondering how a mat can boost blood circulation, energy, and recovery, as well as release oxytocin and endorphins? Good question. As their website explains, the mat works "by stimulating key pressure points, aiding in muscle repair and offering a non-invasive solution to muscle tension. This modern approach to acupuncture offers physical recovery for pain relief and reduces future injury risk by boosting strength and stability."

Still not quite sure you get it? Picture yourself lying on a slightly spiky - but not unbearable - yoga mat which releases endorphins naturally and you're on the right track. While it's not the most comfortable of feelings, you quickly get used to it and learn to enjoy the stimulation of various pressure points near the body's energy lines.

“You may feel a little discomfort in the beginning," says Carina Tannenberg, founder of Bed of Nails. But rest assured, "the slight discomfort goes away, giving you an amazing feeling of relaxation."

Who should try a Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat?

Anyone and everyone, really. It's worth noting that you will have to find ten to twenty minutes, ideally every evening, to lie on one, so if you know you rarely have time to sit and wind down in an evening, you might not get the most use out of it.

That said, I've found it a really useful tool for forcing myself to lie down and read a few chapters of my book each night before bed. You could also roll it out and use it while you're watching TV (as wellness hacks go, it's very light lifting and literally just requires you to remember to lie on it each night). I'd recommend trying habit stacking if you're not sure you'll use it consistently. This simply means pairing the new healthy habit you want to stick to with something you enjoy.

Top tips for using the Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat

According to founder of Yogi Bare Kat Pither, the easiest way to navigate your mat is using the four prompts below.

• "Get used to mat by using a thin t-shirt between your body and the spikes initially. Eventually skin contact will give you the best experience," she advises.
• "Experiment!," she goes on. "Mediate, lie in candlelight, put on some James Blake, or drop some essential oils on to your mat. You can even try sitting with your legs up the wall or draw your legs into your chest and rock gently side to side."
• Do note: You may feel it more when you are tense or stressed. "When you're chilled, not so much." Her advice? "Just appreciate how cool it is to be tuning into your body."
• "Standing on the mat is very energising and targets reflexology points on the soles of the feet," she concludes.

My Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat review

While I'm all for testing wellness hacks in the name of journalism - it's literally part of my job - I'd had acupressure mats on my radar for a while and still hadn't given them a go. While other products, like protein powders and vitamins, promise visable and noticeable results, I think I was subconciously put off by how basic the perks of using an acupressure mat seemed. Boosted relaxation? Less muscle tension? Neither seemed things I was in need of.

But how wrong I was. As I reached my late 20's, as I'm sure has happened to so many before me, my priorities started to shift. I'll be the first to admit that I started focusing more on tools to boost my recovery and mental health, as well as energy and athletic ability. And acupressure was one of the first things I tried, knowing full well that it's a tool that's been used to release body tension for centuries.

To make sure I stuck to the habit, as I mentioned above, I decided to "stack" using the acupressure mat with reading my book in bed every night. That way, I didn't find adding it to my routine overwhelming, rather, it slotted in nicely and paired well with a habit I was already doing.

I was amazed at how easy it was to stick to. But I think I kept returning to my mat because of how unbelievable it made me feel. A short ten to fifteen minutes lying on the pointy little spikes every day and I noticed a whole host of benefits.

The most noticeable was the calm, almost zen-like state of relaxation it encouraged, almost similar to the post-yoga or massage feeling of total peace. To be able to achieve this from the comfort of my bed was a revelation for me, and leads me on nicely to my second huge benefit - improved sleep.

Think about it - if you're using your mat pre-bed, it's likely to encourage you to properly wind down from the day, releasing loads of tension and endorphins during the process. Alongside the deep feeling of relaxation and calm that my mat gave me, I definitely slept better and woke up less (with my fitness tracker confirming as much, congratulating me on my boosted REM sleep).

As a marathon runner who's currently training for her tenth, I'm also all for anything that will help ease muscle tension and give my muscles they love they deserve after all the hard hours of training. The Yogi Bare Acupressure Mat was the perfect tool for me - with massage guns, I always forget to charge them, plus find them noisy and difficult to hold in the right position. With these mats, you simply lay them out, grab a book and a cup of herbal tea, and relax. Not to mention, they're really easy to pack and store away thanks to the handy cover case.

Honestly, I've surprised even myself with this one, but I've loved my acupressure mat so much I've even gifted some to friends for their birthdays in the hope they'll feel the same deep, grounding relaxation I have. If you're feeling stressed, tense, or are just after a handy tool to boost relaxation and sleep quality, this one's for you.

As a Senior Health Editor with eight years of industry experience under my belt, I’m very - and I mean very - sceptical when it comes to wellness trends. You see, most of the supposedly “game-changing” health hacks or workouts you see trending on social media have often been specifically designed to garner views, rather than actually boost your health. While not the most glamorous, the fact is that healthy living isn’t about expensive supplements, treatments, or overhauls - it’s about the little (largely free) habits you can build into your day-to-day and actually stick to.

That said, there are some health supplements that I rate and would recommend you spend your money on, having tested hundreds, if not thousands, over the course of my career. Chia seed water, creatine and skin supplements packed full of filler ingredients aren't for me, but electrolytes are something I’ve long sworn by for boosting my workouts and hydration levels - and it seems I’m not the only one, either.

Recent data shows that the global electrolyte mixes market soared from $36.56 billion last year to $40.32 billion this year - a staggering 10% increase year on year - and Google searches about the benefits of electrolytes are at breakout. Celebrities seem in on the hype, too - both Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston have promoted products containing electrolytes, with other stars including Kendall Jenner, Hailey and Justin Bieber, and James Corden, among several others, investing in the electrolyte drink mix Liquid IV.

Of all the electrolytes I’ve tried over the years - and as a nine-time marathon runner, trust me when I say I’ve tried the vast majority on the market - there’s one clear frontrunner, and that’s ARTAH’s Cellular Hydration electrolytes. Not only does it have a far more natural flavour than competitors, but it's packed full of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, Vitamin C, and the adaptogen maca, which shows promise when it comes to hormone regulation.

And it's scientifically-backed, too. A recent four-week study on the supplement conducted by Citrus Labs in the USA showed statistically significant benefits of taking the electrolyte.

After a month of testing, 85% of the 50 participants felt more energetic, 76% felt their concentration improved, 70% experienced less brain fog, and 75% felt more productive, with further benefits reported, including improved mood, fewer food cravings, and better exercise performance. 91% said they would continue using the product.

This marks a milestone for the brand and makes them one of the first in the UK to independently test both product efficacy and performance.

No doubt the recent boom in interest in running has only helped the supplements case (electrolytes are arguably most beneficial to runners or those who regularly do high-intensity exercise, as they help to replenish the minerals you lose when you sweat). But still wondering what all the fuss is about, not sure what electrolytes actually are, or keen to learn how they could benefit you? Below, I explain all, plus go into detail about why the ARTAH Cellular Hydration electrolyte mix is, hands down, my favourite. Don't miss our guide to the many benefits of electrolytes, while you're here.

So, what exactly is ARTAH Cellular Hydration? 

First, a bit about what electrolytes actually are. In case you're not in the know about the latest wellness must-try, electrolytes are electrically charged minerals crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle contraction, nerve signalling and regulating fluid balance. In short, they regulate essential bodily chemical reactions, and further help to maintain your cell's fluid balance and, in turn, hydration levels.

"Electrolytes are present in our blood, sweat and urine, and common ones include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride and also phosphate," explains nutritionist and co-founder of Ardere, Lauren Windas.

So, why are electrolytes important to supplement day to day? In short, because we all lose electrolytes when we urinate or sweat. While you'll already be topping up your levels via your food and water intake, if you don't eat a balanced diet or struggle to drink enough water, you might not be getting the amount you need.

It's possible for some to experience an electrolyte imbalance - that's when "the levels of these essential electrolytes in your body become either too high or too low," adds the expert. This commonly occurs when you're dehydrated, taking certain medications, or have experienced excessive sweating or hormonal issues, and can present itself in the form of muscle cramps, weakness, confusion, fatigue, heart palpitations or nausea.

"Maintaining proper levels of electrolytes is so key for your overall health," stresses Windas. "We have the power to do this through diet, hydration, and supplements - the easiest way is to incorporate enough potassium-rich foods, like bananas, calcium-rich foods, like dairy, and sodium-rich foods, like salt, as well as drinking enough water and opting for high-quality supplements."

So, what's so special about the ARTAH product specifically? According to Rhian Stephenson, nutritionist, naturopath and founder of ARTAH, their best-selling energy and hydration drink stands out thanks to its added electrolytes, phytonutrients, and Peruvian maca. "It's rich in potassium and magnesium, which women aren't getting enough of and are essential for everything from mood and stress management to energy and metabolism," she explains. Not only that, but it also has Vitamin C, calcium, a small dose of Himalayan sea salt, and a phytonutrient called malic acid, which is utilized by our energy-producing pathways to boost ATP production, she explains.

How does ARTAH Cellular Hydration work?

According to Stephenson, it works in a few different ways. "Most importantly, though, it properly hydrates you," she shares. Wondering whether you're already doing this through your daily water intake? Well, spoiler alert: hydration isn't just about the amount of water we drink. "If we don't maintain a good balance of electrolytes, our cells won't be able to use it and we'll find ourselves drinking a lot, but never really feeling hydrated. Electrolytes help maintain the fluid balance in cells and are essential for the function of our nervous system, cognitive performance, and energy production."

Case in point: The National Diet + Nutrition Survey found that, of the over 3200 participants, women in all age groups didn't meet the RNI for potassium and magnesium. "This doesn't take into account any increased requirements from things like stress, coffee and alcohol intake, exercise, and certain diets," the expert continues, going on to add that low carb diets and regular fasting will affect this, to name a few.

On a more practical level, the supplement is as simple as adding to fresh water, mixing, and enjoying.

Who should supplement ARTAH Cellular Hydration?

Anyone can benefit from supplementing their electrolytes, but runners and those who regularly do high intensity workouts will benefit from it the most.

"Science has established a place for the importance of athletes taking electrolytes during periods of prolonged exercise, helping them to maintain fluid balance and improve endurance by replacing electrolytes lost via sweat," explains Windas. "A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (JISSN) found that supplementing electrolytes improved hydration and performance while reducing muscle cramps compared with water alone."

In short, athletes and endurance runners need to pay special attention to their electrolyte levels because of the amount of excessive sweating they do during intense exercise, which depletes these vital minerals. Benefits of electrolyte supplementation for runners includes overall hydration, fluid balance, prevention of muscle cramps, and enhanced performance and recovery, while also regulating blood pressure, the expert goes on.

When should I drink ARTAH Cellular Hydration?

You can drink it any time, and up to three times a day, too. In summer, when I'm sweating more, I normally have a glass first thing in the morning, and in the winter months, I'll add a teaspoon to my water bottle with some ice to take to the gym with me.

Stephenson agrees, adding: "It's really versatile, so you can implement it into your lifestyle in a variety of ways. It's fantastic to add to your litre of water first thing in the morning to help replenish electrolytes and mood focus." But you can also use it during or after a workout session, or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Another important need to know (and this one, I've tried and tested): "It can also be a great tool to help with hangovers, especially throughout the holiday season," adds the expert.

What does an independent nutritionist think of the ARTAH Cellular Hydration?

According to registered nutritionist Helen Perks, the ARTAH blend combines several key electrolytes - magnesium, potassium, and calcium - alongside additional ingredients like Peruvian maca root, inulin, and Vitamin C. "This formula claims to support hydration, energy, and recovery while also offering benefits for the microbiome and emotional well-being," shares the expert.

Nutritionist Amie Alexander adds that the product has several standout elements. "Magnesium citrate, one of the product's ingredients, is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium and therefore better absorbed in the body. Studies have proven that a deficiency in magnesium undermines the efficiency of work and increases oxygen demand during exercise itself."

Not just that, but the addition of Peruvian maca and inulin gives Cellular Hydration some very unique benefits, she goes on. "Maca itself is an adaptogen studied for its potential to improve endurance and reduce general fatigue. One Journal of Ethnopharmacology study found that maca supplementation improved endurance performance in athletes. Inulin, on the other hand, is a prebiotic fibre that nurtures gut health through the encouragement of gut bacteria growth. Healthy gut microbiota can help in improving nutrient absorption and hence is useful for anyone keen to optimise their nutrient absorption."

However, Perks does point out that it is possible to reach your daily requirement via foods naturally rich in electrolytes. Her personal favourite is coconut water - in her view, "one of the best natural sources of potassium, along with magnesium and calcium." She also recommends leafy greens, like spinach, bananas, nuts, seeds, and salted foods, like olives and pickles.

Top tips for using ARTAH Cellular Hydration

The great thing about this product is that the taste is really inoffensive, unlike other super sweet electrolytes on the market, which makes it versatile. Expect a slight tart flavour with a hint of citrus.

You can drink it on its own, mixed with water, or you can mix it into your morning smoothie for an electrolyte boost. Wondering when to take it? Again, any time works, but Stephenson normally opts for it first thing or before a big run or cardio session. "As it's free from artificial sweeteners, sugar, emulsifiers, fillers, and preservatives, and also unsweetened, it has a slightly sour taste," she explains. Because of this, she recommends starting slowly and finding your perfect taste. "I like it to be quite mild in the day, but a little heavier if I'm doing a big run or cardio session, but it's really up to you. You can also add a little squeeze of lemon or lime to flavour it even more."

Follow the below steps to make the perfect drink:

• Pour yourself 500ml (one glass) of water.
• Spoon 7g (a heaped teaspoon) into your water
• Mix until the powder dissolves and enjoy.
• If you'd prefer it cold, add some ice, or if you'd rather, you can mix into your favourite smoothie.

My ARTAH Cellular Hydration review

So, how did I get on with the product? 

As someone who runs regularly and sweats a lot, making sure I'm on top of my hydration levels is actually key to my performance. I figured this out a few years back when I worked out that the cramps I was experiencing every time I ran were actually a result of being dehydrated. I was always on top of my daily water intake, you see, but wasn't getting enough of the other minerals through my diet.

I've been supplementing electrolytes ever since, particularly during the summer months or when I'm upping my training during a marathon training block. That said, most of the other brands I've tried have quite a few unnecessary ingredients and are also super sweet - like Vimto levels of sweet - which I didn't love. After all, if you've decided to pay for a health supplement, you likely won't want it to be super sweet.

I first discovered ARTAH's Cellular Hydraton mix around two years ago and it quickly became my go-to. I really love the flavour - it tastes like summer in a cup and is delicious any time of year. I normally enjoy a glass first thing or pop in my water bottle to take to the gym with me for my strength training or speedwork.

I've noticed a significant improvement in cramps, since supplementing - I hardly ever get stitches or cramping during my runs now, and I'm confident that my electrolyte supplementing, especially during marathon training season, has something to do with this. As a woman with PCOS who also sometimes struggles with fatigue, I've also noticed more consistent energy levels since using the product, plus like the fact that it promises to help with nervous system regulation (again, something that's really important for women with PCOS due to our insulin sensitivity).

My only complaints about the product are minor. It comes in a powder format, which makes it slightly more messy than other electrolyte tabs that you simply pop in water to dissolve. Plus, if you leave the bag even slightly unsealed (which I will admit I have done on several occasions), the powder will become hard and unusable quite quickly. Not an issue, per se, just one to note if you do invest and want to get the most out of your investment.

As a Health Editor and nine-time marathoner, one of the questions I get asked the most, without doubt, is which shoes I reckon are the best running trainers.

It's fair to say I've trialled a few in my time - I'm always keen to sweat-test them for you to make sure whatever product you read about here on Marie Claire UK comes personally recommended and with my seal of approval. From the shiny new Nike Invincible 3 to the Allbirds Tree Flyers, I'll always share my honest thoughts on the pros and cons of the shoe, alongside an insight into what sport they're best suited for.

That said, I have a handful of designs on rotation for wear week in, week out - some for recovery runs, some for training runs, and some for races, too.

The Ultraboosts are one of those, and I've tested every single iteration of the shoe since their launch in 2015. Why? Because they've always been next-level comfortable, springy, easy to put on, and stylish enough to wear to work, should you need to. 

I even completed a 37-mile ultra marathon in them once. It had been due to snow but instead was bitterly cold. I wore trail shoes for extra grip but risked injury pounding the hard streets of London in shoes designed for muddy offroading. Desperate for my comfiest option to change into, I slipped on my Ultraboosts - case in point, really, that they're a reliably comfortable all-rounder.

The Ultraboost's are adidas' most popular shoe and have a cult-like following for a reason. But the all-important question: could they improve the design? You'll have to keep scrolling to find out. While this review was first published in March 2023, it has since been updated to reflect how much use I've got out of the shoe, twelve months later.

adidas Ultraboost Light review: "They're a real joy to run in"

You might have guessed from the name that the new adidas Ultraboost Light is - yep - their lightest shoe ever, promising to offer "epic" energy return and a new innovative, lighter material.

Speaking to adidas Global Category Director Simon Lockett, he shares that the main focus for the shoe stemmed from the necessity to create an all-rounder shoe that ticked the right boxes for every kind of runner - whether you're training for your first 5km, an avid half marathoner, or a long run kind of person. "Every time we develop a new shoe, we start by reading and watching reviews," he shared with me. "My main aim is to understand what people want - then you start to break down what the key requirements are not just in an Ultraboost, but in any shoe."

And so the Ultraboost Light was born. From there, his team went back to basics, identifying comfort, bounce, and responsiveness as three key pillars for the new shoe. Not only that, but they were on a mission to make it lighter, too - 30% lighter, in fact. Compared to competitors, the shoes are much heavier, which this 2020 study suggested could impair both running economy and performance.

First thoughts: you can barely feel the shoe on, and bouncing through four easy miles, they're a real joy to run in. They're cushioned, comfortable and responsive, and don't cause any blistering or discomfort despite being worn straight out of the box.

You can notice the new lighter midsole, too. Wondering why a lighter running shoe could benefit you? Well, as above - you need only picture tired, heavy legs, and you'll get it. The lighter the shoe, the more enjoyable your run promises to be. Plus, lighter shoes have been found to make running more efficient, meaning they have the potential to improve your performance. 

For reference, the older Ultraboosts sat at around 85g heavier than competitor shoes, but the new Lights are 30% lighter with 4% more energy return, too. And you can feel it. 

Also to note - the shoes are breathable and stable. Plus, I'm a fan of the knit upper and narrow heel fit. I have wider feet and often get blisters from "narrow" fits from other competitors, but not here.

Other need-to-knows: they've redesigned what they call an "LEP" - in short, an energy point on the sole of the shoe that boosts the responsiveness of the shoe.

While I didn't initially test their grip in wet weather - it was a clear, sunny day when I initially tested the shoes - a year one and I can confirm that I've worn them for both wet and sunny runs. While the grip isn't something to write home about and I wouldn't wear them for trail running, they are a great option for if you live in a City and train predominantly on roads. 

Other thoughts, twelve months down the line: they're one of the easiest pairs of trainers I have for just slipping on and heading out the door, which isn't to be sniffed at. They're a simple, easy to wear all-rounder in my opinion. 

That said, if you're looking to save money and not fussed about the weight of your shoe, opting for one of the earlier versions could be a more cost-effective way of investing in a pair of Ultraboosts (I also rated the earlier 22 design and would recommend).

Design-wise, they're aesthetically pleasing, as ever, with a range of seven different colourways. My personal favourite is the pink colourway above - a shoe you could wear to the office, gym, or brunch, too. 

An Ultraboost fan I remain..

Shop other MC UK fit kit favourites here:

News flash: wellness isn't going anywhere for 2026, with interest in the devices we can use to optimise our quality of life only growing in popularity. Circana stats show that the wellness tools category grew by +59.1% last year, with 68% of consumers now using a watch, ring, or wristband to monitor their health.

And no wonder. Whether you're just starting to get into your fitness journey or you indulge in half-marathons for breakfast, arming yourself with one of the best fitness trackers can be a helpful tool to aid your training and help you reach your health goals for the year ahead.

With a slew of new technology on the market, measuring your resting heart rate, tracking your readiness score (make sure you check out the Oura ring) or carrying your personal step tracker in your pocket has never been easier. Hacking your metabolism has always been a long-debated topic in the fitness world, and now, thanks to the Lumen, you're able to do so on the go.

I'd been seeing Lumen all over my social media for a while, which first piqued my interest in trying it out for myself. There has been a 50% increase in searches for the Lumen Metabolism Tracker over the last year, so the hype clearly isn't dying down any time soon.

To read how I got on putting the Lumen to the test over six months, keep scrolling. Below, I cover everything there is to know about its latest technology and most importantly, if it actually worked.

My honest Lumen review? It's been a game changer

So, what exactly is Lumen?

Put simply: Lumen is a handheld device that helps to identify where you sit on the metabolic spectrum.

Lumen was developed by two sister doctors, Drs. Michal and Merav Mor who were training for an Ironman Triathlon. They wanted to understand how to fuel for their competitions, what to eat and also what to avoid. They had the idea to create a handheld version of the RER (Respiratory Exchange Ratio) equipment that you find in hospitals and clinics, which lets you know your metabolism by measuring the amount of CO2 in your breath.

"It has always been our goal to contribute more knowledge on metabolism to the scientific community and make personalized nutrition more accessible so that we can finally understand the question of what we should be eating on a daily basis which actually works for our unique body", shares Dr. Merav Mor, Chief of Science at Lumen.

It took three engineers and over five years of work to perfect the device, with one 2020 study confirming it as the gold standard for measuring metabolism. Lumen is all about working out a nutrition plan—completely tailored to your body—and aims to be the anthesis of the restrictive diets we’ve seen over the years.

If that isn't enough to convince you, you might be interested to know that it's also a firm A-lister favourite. Personal trainer Don Saladino—who works with the likes of Blake Lively and Anne Hathaway—swears by the device for improving clients' metabolic flexibility and energy levels.

How does Lumen work?

Lumen's main goal is to understand and improve your metabolic flexibility (the body's ability to switch between burning fat or carbohydrates for energy) and, in turn, help you work out which foods to eat to boost your energy and mood.

It's no surprise that sleep and diet can have a direct effect on our metabolism (the brand recently published a peer-reviewed study with ARU Cambridge on the effects of high and low-carb diets and metabolism) and Lumen can help to identify how other lifestyle factors may contribute to metabolic flexibility.

So, how does it work? By monitoring your body’s carbon dioxide concentration—all you have to do is breathe into the handheld device. The levels of CO2 in your body indicate the type of fuel your body is using to produce energy.

Lumen says they "developed the CO2 sensor inside the device from scratch, and that's the key hardware that reads the levels of CO2 in your breath. If you have elevated CO2 levels in the breath, your body is burning carbs and lower CO2 levels means your body is burning fats."

Lumen took a technology that had already been used since the 60’s in top clinics and made it work from a single breath. It would normally takes 45 minutes and a trained technician to get these kind of results, which is not at all accessible for most people. That's where the Lumen device comes in.

The company now boasts the largest metabolic database in the world. Before Lumen, there were less than 1 million measurements. Now, there are over 65 million measurements and over 300,000 users. At the moment, the founders' main focus area is how women's metabolism is different to men's to help close the research gap and arm women with tools to track their own data and metabolism.

Top tips for using Lumen

Before I got started with the device, I set up a call with Mia Johanna Dige, metabolic coach at Lumen, to ask for advice for starting my journey. If you're starting with Lumen too, then make sure you read the below:

• Get the most out of Lumen: “To get the device working at its optimum, you need to do a measurement in the morning before you’ve eaten anything and have the option to do several other measurements across the day (before and after exercising and before bedtime)”.
• Protein, protein, protein: “Protein not only keeps you feeling fuller for longer but it helps with muscle growth and recovery,” says Dige, And, that we should be aiming for “at least 30% of each meal to be compromised of protein”.
• Knowing when to consume carbs: “Try to eat carbohydrates in the middle of the day and opt for more veg and protein in the evenings”. “Use your measurements to work out what types of carbs you eat as everybody responds differently to specific types of carbs”
• Lumen and Intermittent fasting: For those doing intermittent fasting, Dige recommends, “doing a reading every hour to see where you are and if you’re maintaining fat burn. This enables you to find the perfect window of fasting for your body.”

Lumen Metabolism review: so, how did I get on with it?

I’d first seen the device over my Instagram feed and after what I initially thought sounded good to be true, I decided to look into it and give it a go.

It’s worth stating that I’m a complete novice when it comes to macros—and let’s face it, exercise in general. I had a fairly sporty childhood but rather embarrassingly, after the age of 18, I stopped doing any form of exercise apart from countless hours spent raving on the dancefloors around Europe (does that count?).

I’m giving you this information because I want you to know the complete picture. Fast forward to today, and I'm on a journey of looking after and wanting to better understand my body. That’s where Lumen—and my recent love of biohacking—comes in.

I’ve been using the Lumen device for around six months now. Full disclaimer: I really struggled to get into the habit of using it at the very beginning, but now, it's become a part of me and completely slipped into my lifestyle and routine. Word to the wise: the chances of you becoming that guy that shares their newfound love and understanding of how their metabolism works, are quite high. At a recent dinner party (more on those later), I met a fellow Lumeneer—I'm coining that—and we extolled the virtues of said device to anyone that would listen.

Whatever your reasons may be; understanding how your body works so that you can choose the right training activities or foods that work for you, looking for something to provide insights to inform your training programmes, or if you simply want to use it for weight loss, there is no question about it, the Lumen is an extremely handy bit of kit.

I quickly worked out just how much the device points to sleep and, of course, diet. There wasn’t anything that I wasn’t allowed to eat. Instead, the daily-tailored nutritional plan focused on macros: carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Once I got into the swing of it, the morning reading—done just before my hot water with lemon—no longer seemed like a chore. I will admit though, that during particularly busy periods I sometimes skipped a day or just didn't have the time. For example, travelling around cities for various fashion weeks often means I am sleep deprived, time-poor and make terrible decisions when it comes to what I'm consuming. It's also worth noting that I would eat whatever I wanted when I was out for dinner for either work or with friends and family.

For me, maintaining a level of distance from the incessant recording of data was key. I didn't want to become obsessed with it. When I missed a day or two (or a week, in some cases) then I simply made peace with it knowing that I would return to regular programming when I was ready.

Does Lumen help with fat loss?

Now to the question you’re all thinking - can this device actually help me lose weight? The answer - well, it's a journey, but what you put in will most likely be presented in the results.

There are no quick fixes. My weight fluctuated by 5kg across the six-month period of use. I will be the first to admit that I didn't always completely stick to the plan and instead used it as rough guidance, so I know that this could’ve been better if I did.

However, several people that I bumped into made comments about my appearance—as an aside, maybe we need to look at the culture around that—and to be honest, I felt like I had shifted some of the weight. So, for me, it most definitely worked.

I was making better choices when it came to food and being more active by making small changes: instead of getting the tube, I decided to walk. I was averaging over 12,000 steps a day.

How much does it all cost?

So far so good. Now, let’s talk about the cost. The Lumen is available as a subscription service. You can typically get the device and 12 months free premium membership for £599. Memberships renew automatically, but you can cancel anytime and keep using your Lumen device.

Right now, however, you can score the Lumen device and a year's premium membership for just £299. That's an impressive 50% saving, making it a much more affordable investment.

Obviously, this is not cheap. However, it is cheaper than a gym membership but more expensive than your Netflix subscription. I’ve seriously had to question whether it was something that I would like to continue doing as the cost is significant. But when looking at the entire package and everything that is included, I think it's a great investment.

The monthly subscription includes:

• Macro tracking, meal ideas and tailored nutrition plans updated daily: It can be a challenge working out what to eat initially, so I found this extremely helpful.
• Food lists: This makes it super easy to categorise your ingredients.
• Portion guidance: I've gone 36 years with a rather skewed understanding of what one recommended portion size of rice actually is.
• Menu hacks: Very useful for when you’re eating out.
• Resources to help you along the way: It also has a library of easy-to-ingest—and understand—videos in handy categories such as little tips for getting the most out of the device, nutritional education as well as inspirational—but not in a naff way—messaging on your goals and mindset.
• Food logging: Use photo and barcode scanning to log what you're eating.
• Integrations with Apple Health, Google Fit, and Garmin: This is especially helpful if you wear a smartwatch daily and want to keep on top of your stats.

What the experts say about the Lumen metabolism tracker

"Lumen provides the necessary biofeedback to make necessary health and nutrition changes", Dr. John Whyte, chief medical officer at Web MD.

"Based on this device, I get personalized recommendations for nutrition, sleep, physical activity, to help me improve my metabolism." Dr. William Li, author of Eat to Beat your Diet.

The verdict on the Lumen—Could I do all of this without the device?

You can measure your macros intake, track and record your workouts, and track your sleep via some other well-known trackers and apps but, to my knowledge, there is no other device currently on the market that enables you to track your metabolism.

Whilst some attempts to eat better or switch up your diet are often fads and short-lived, IMHO, Lumen provides the bases for a long-lasting approach to not only eating better but also understanding your body, Taking that into account, I do think that overall I will continue my subscription—even though it is quite pricey. It’s helped me on my journey.

The Lumen founders are also focused on empowering women with scientifically backed data related to how to eat and sleep—an area in which research is lacking. Lumen stats have shown that women experience a 17% increase in carb burn during the first half of the menstrual cycle and increased fat burn in the second half, which is why women tend to crave carbs much more during the first half of a period.

These are things that would be very difficult to keep track of—or even have knowledge of—accessibly without devices like Lumen. If stats like these about your own body particularly interest you, you will probably benefit from using Lumen too.

For a more in-depth look at how to boost metabolism naturally, we reached out to Jo Woodhurst, Director of Nutrition & Education at Ancient + Brave - find her expert-approved tips below…

Shop the best metabolism-focused products

Right, so now you've learned all there is to know about Lumen tracker and boosting your metabolism, you're probably on the lookout for one of the best fitness trackers to complement your purchase. Lucky for you, team MC is well versed in fitness trackers and we've tried a fair few options. Keep scrolling to shop our top picks below:

Our Editors' favourite fitness trackers

If you're someone, like us, who enjoys eating well, working out and generally keeping tabs on their health and wellbeing, then you'll likely have seen Whoop fitness trackers on your social media feeds.

Loved by athletes, celebrities and fitness influencers alike - Vogue Williams and two-time CrossFit Games champion Katrin Davidsdottir are both fans, plus arguably the most famous basketball player in the world, LeBron James, is an investor - the fitness tracker is a first of its kind for a number of reasons.

Firstly, it doesn't have a watch face, sending all your stats directly to the app on your phone. Plus, the variables it tracks are pretty hardcore - unlike a Fitbit, which monitors your steps, Whoop trackers monitor what they call your "fitness level", a combination of your skin temperature, blood oxygen levels, heart rate variability and resting heart rate.

Users have called it "transformative" - so, naturally, we were keen to get our hands on it and put it to the test. Would it dramatically improve our recovery, sleep, and general fitness? Keep scrolling to find out - and don't miss our guides to the best fitness trackers and best Fitbits, while you're here.

Ally's Whoop review: "I'm a bit of a nerd about tracking my fitness - this tracker offers all the info you need" 

Shop Whoop now:

• Whoop One - £169 at Amazon
• Whoop Power Pack - £44 at Amazon
• Whoop Superknit Band - £44 at Amazon

What I liked about the Whoop 4

Full disclaimer for you: I'm a bit of a nerd when it comes to tracking my fitness.

I've had a Garmin for around five years now and love seeing my fitness score improve month on month (not always, but often). Having read rave reviews about the Whoop online, I was keen to level up my fitness tracking - literally, as the tracker promises to offer more detailed and thorough stats from other competitors on the market.

So, pros: it was easy enough to set up and charge, and I found that the battery life lasted for a few days (not the full five days as promised on the website, but a good three to four before you needed to plug it in).

I quite liked that it didn't have a watch face - rather, I just needed to load the app on my phone to check in on my recovery, sleep stats and more. While some will find this a pain, I liked that I wasn't constantly being reminded to take more steps by a flashing screen strapped to my wrist. Plus, as a colleague pointed out, it means you can wear the tracker alongside your more fashion-focused watch and not look like you're wearing two watches at once.

If you're after a simplistic device to tell you that you've hit your daily steps, the Whoop is, in my opinion, too complex. It doesn't actually track your steps or how many stairs you've climbed. You also can't track runs or workouts on it as easily as say, a Garmin, but it does auto-track your workouts for you and tell you how long you were active based on your heart rate zone and cardiovascular strain.

The main factor that piqued my interest initially was Whoop's daily "readiness score," as above, a combination of your skin temperature, blood oxygen levels, heart rate variability and resting heart rate.

In a nutshell, the entire aim of the watch is to take into account your daily strain, measure these variables against your base rate and advise you from there. That is, if your heart rate was through the roof during a particularly spicy high-intensity interval training workout yesterday and you didn't get much sleep, your readiness score will be lower, and it'll advise you to do less today to make sure you don't end up injured.

This is a breath of fresh air in an industry that sometimes feels designed to overpush us. I can't count the number of times my Garmin has told me my training is unproductive at the end of a 16-week marathon training cycle, simply because I'm in taper week and so purposefully doing less that week to make sure my body recovers.

It was really fascinating to learn from, and for the three months I tested the tracker, I loved checking in on how long it suggested I needed to recover post-session. As a runner who regularly smashes interval training, long runs and strength training sessions, too, it made me more mindful of spacing out my workouts and getting enough recovery time in.

In a clever new move from the brand, they've also designed bras with panels for the trackers to slot into - a great option for those of you who are keen to test your fitness but don't want to wear a thick black strap around your wrist. I enjoyed testing out this functionality and found it almost impossible to forget to put it on (you're far more likely to forget to wear a watch than a bra, right?).

I liked the emphasis on sleep a lot, too - so many trackers are great for getting you up, out and exercising, but don't put anywhere near enough stress on the recovery stage of training, too. As someone who's taken nearly an hour off their marathon time over the past five years or so, I can confidently say that getting eight hours of sleep a night has played a large part, so I'm very here for all Whoop teaches you about the importance of sleep quality.

It neatly delivers you a "sleep performance" score and, what I learn over my three months of testing, is that while I'm in bed for eight to nine hours every night, the quality of my sleep is actually quite poor, and it's taking me around 45 minutes to drift off every night. Not only that, but I'm waking up regularly without realising it. With that in mind, I introduce a new bedtime routine and start charging my phone in the hallway - both of which really help to boost the quality of my shut-eye and how I'm feeling overall.

The new Whoop 4 includes a new and improved sensor configuration that promises to improve the tracker's general accuracy and heart rate measurements. It's also around a third lighter than previous iterations. It's a smart device, I'll tell you that for free - before I even know I'm feeling under the weather in mid-January, it's telling me to rest and take things easy. As someone who trains a lot, it was helpful to be told when to go slow or to know when my body might not be able to push my speed.

Okay, on to the cons: I did find that it sometimes took upwards of an hour for the Whoop to upload the data to my phone, which, if you just want to check how long you slept, gets a bit tiresome. Plus, as a self-professed sweaty human, wearing the band for working out meant that, more often than not, I was left with a soggy band strapped to my wrist (not the one).

On several occasions, it told me I'd slept for three hours or so when I know for a fact that, despite waking up in the middle of the night, I did fall back to sleep. Not just that, but it sometimes told me my optimum sleep time was anything from nine to ten hours a night - a target which, even as someone who loves sleep, really didn't feel manageable alongside a busy career, social life, and training miles to fit in.

Plus, as a pretty dedicated runner, I felt I needed more details from my runs than simply distance, pace, and duration - I'd have liked a breakdown of each kilometre, for example, or even a breakdown of heart rate zone during my workout (I've no doubt you can find this on the app, but not easily).

My main gripe was the overload of data. I found it quite hard, and at times, near impossible, to navigate the onslaught of stats provided. Unlike with other wearables, where it's packaged up neatly for you, Whoop doesn't hold back on - and this is coming from someone who loves fitness data and working through what it all means.

Valeza Whoop review: "It's chich and the stats are among the most accurate and detailed I’ve seen"

As far as screenless fitness trackers go, WHOOP is definitely one of the chicest designs. The woven bracelet strap can be easily changed to suit your outfit - I have the grey, black and chocolate brown straps and am looking to add to my collection further. But this tracker doesn’t just look good - it’s effective at tracking your fitness levels, too.

It not only tracks your active training but your sleep and recovery, too. Yes, it might be a bit of an information overload at first, but the stats are among the most accurate and detailed I’ve seen, so if that’s your priority, you’re in good hands.

Importantly, once the app learns more about you, you start to get notifications and advice that’s much more tailored to your needs. I personally love the screenless design, as I appreciate the fact that I can check on my progress in the app as and when I want to. If you're a bit anxious about exercising or want more of an all-around progress report, this is a brilliant tracker.

Is Whoop worth the money?

We are both in agreement that this will totally depend on the type of person you are, what you're looking to track, and whether you find fitness data overwhelming or empowering. Ally preferred listening to her body, whereas Valeza found the Whoop tracker chic, stylish and easy to use, not to mention helpful for checking in on her day-to-day fitness stats.

We had an interesting chat with personal trainer and biomechanics expert Anthony Fletch, co-founder of One Track, about this recently, too, where we discussed how navigating too much data can often be counter-intuitive. We'd be interested to know how much it impacts you psychologically knowing that you haven't rested as well as you would have liked to.

Of course, you can spin this the other way, too - no doubt I had days where I'd initially felt tired but had a more can-do outlook once I clocked my readiness score in the green.

Can you use Whoop without the membership?

The Whoop membership clocks in at around £16 a month for 24 months or £19 for 12 months, delivering all of the neat data straight to your mobile device.

That said, I definitely think the brand is one to watch, and I'm excited to see what they continue to come up with.

This article was first published in 2022 and has since been updated to include more accurate pricing.

Mushrooms are having a moment - quite literally, with Google search for "functional mushrooms" and "lions mane" at breakout. Wondering whether it's time to up your supplement game? As a Health Editor who tests wellness products day in, day out for a living, I know it can be hard to cut through the noise and decipher which new trending wellness products are genuinely worth your money. Which is where my new franchise Wellness Wins comes in - an in-depth review of the products I've tried and tested over several months (sometimes even years) and always come back to. Up first? This Dirtea cacao review.

Rewind a bit first, though. If you've seen 'shrooms and cacao on many a 2024 trend report but never tried either yourself, a bit of background for you. As per the Dirtea website, mushrooms are as old as the earth (1.3 billion years old, to be exact) and an essential part of our ecosystem. While there are 1000s of different mushroom species, only a few types - Reishi, lion's mane, cordyceps, and turkey tail, among others - are classified as "functional", in other words, scientifically identified as being beneficial to our health. (Some sources even say functional mushrooms contain "super nutrients"). The appetite for functional 'shrooms only looks set to continue, too, with documentaries like Netflix's Fantastic Fungi helping to grow the market (as per Newswire, the global functional mushroom market is thought to surpass 19 billion dollars by 2030).  

Cacao, on the other hand, is an ancient bean that played an integral part in many religious ceremonies and social gatherings for the people of Mesoamerica including the Olmecs, Maya, and Aztecs. Considered to be a gift from the gods, humans are thought to have consumed it since at least as early as 460 CE. 

Dirtea's product is a hybrid of the two, bringing together the immunity-boosting benefits of mushrooms and the calming impact of cacao. Wondering if there's any veracity in the product's claims or how supplementing a cacao-shroom hybrid could boost your daily wellbeing? Good question. Keep scrolling to read my full review, plus two nutritionists' take. 

So, what exactly is Dirtea Cacao? 

The brainchild of brothers Andrew and Simon, the Dirtea brand was born back in 2016 after they experienced the many health benefits of functional mushroom products first-hand. Dedicating their lives to sharing those benefits with others and, in turn, launching the Dirtea brand, they regularly appear on panels and at festivals spreading the word (including speaking at Meta and on Fearne Cotton's Happy Place podcast). 

On their site, they detail dedicating years to finding the best farms, foragers and mycologists, resulting in, in their own words, the "purest and most potent mushroom from forest to cup." Benefits they rave about on the website span increased calm, boosted energy, improved focus, and increased libido. 

While they have other products available on-site, the cacao, in particular, first piqued my interest (health-boosted hot chocolate FTW). It's what they call a "super blend" - in layman's terms, a mix of raw and organic cacao and mushrooms tremella, reishi, and lion's mane. Also in your packet is coconut milk powder, moringa, MCT and pink Himalayan salt, bringing the total number of ingredients to eight. 

Promising to support immune health, enhance beauty (a big claim, but one I'll dig into more later in the article) and promote deep restorative sleep, you'll be drinking 2500mg of mushrooms per cup. According to Clarissa Berry, nutritionist at the brand, this specific product is different from other cacao and mushroom products on the market because of the quality of the ingredients. "The primary ingredient is ceremonial-grade cacao - the highest quality cacao, made from 100% pure, organic beans and containing the richest concentrations of active ingredients," she shares. 

So, what does this mean when you drink it? "Cacao is a superfood with numerous benefits, nutritionally rich in minerals such as potassium, copper, zinc and magnesium, and a potent source of antioxidants," she shares. "Research has shown cacao to reduce inflammation in the body, improve circulation and blood pressure, support neurological health and memory, and even enhance mood."

Now, onto the 'shrooms. As we've touched on above, the product contains 2500mg of functional mushrooms per serving, including reishi, tremella and lion’s mane. "Reishi is well-documented to improve sleep quality, improve stress tolerance and boost immunity, whereas tremella and lion’s mane have both been seen to boost cognition and brain health."

Bottom line: the blend promises to contain a high dose of essential minerals, antioxidants and health-boosting compounds. "The benefits it provides go beyond your normal cup of hot chocolate due to the richness of nutrients and active compounds, lack of conventional additions like sugar, and its carefully crafted blend of additional ingredients," the nutritionist concludes.

What does an independent nutritionist think of the Dirtea Cacao?

So, what does an independent nutritionist who's not paid by the brand think? Uta Boellinger, nutritionist and founder of Canelle Nutrition, shares that there are lots of pros. "As a nutritionist, I love cacao and recommend it as a hot chocolate alternative to most of my clients. Although I don’t usually like the term, I would be tempted to describe it as a superfood as it’s an excellent source of antioxidants, iron and magnesium," she explains. "Even drinking a good quality cacao powder with unsweetened almond milk and a little cinnamon would be beneficial to your health and likely aid relaxation due to its magnesium content."

On this particular product, she shares that the fact it has no added sugar, sweeteners, or artificial flavours all get the green light from a nutrition standpoint. "This product gets the thumbs up from me for not having any unnecessary additives," she continues.

So, what about the shroom element? "Medicinal mushrooms have and are still commonly used in the mainstream medical society in Asia, including in hospitals," she explains. Far from being another wellness trend, she confirms that there is evidence that they can positively impact your health, including their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

That said, she does warn to be mindful of some of the health claims made about functional mushrooms. "The main issue I see is a lack of knowledge of dosages required to have a medicinal effect," she explains. "I’ve seen quite a few mushroom products that contain only tiny amounts and nowhere near as much as may have been used in clinical trials, which means they are therefore unlikely to have a positive effect."

Cacao, on the other hand, contains theobromine which may have a similar effect to caffeine on some people. While she's never had this problem herself, and shares that the same for most of her clients, some are highly sensitive and may not be able to sleep after having cacao in the evening. "Be mindful that as a result, this product isn't suitable for everyone," she concludes.

How does Dirtea Cacao work?

In a nutshell, cacao releases a neurotransmitter called anandamide, sometimes referred to as the "bliss molecule." As per the Dirtea website, "anandamide is a neurotransmitter that binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, stimulating a sense of happiness and mental wellness." 

When should I drink Dirtea cacao?

According to Berry, whenever you like - although it can be a great coffee alternative if you're on the hunt for a low-caffeine option that will also boost your focus and mood. "Energising compounds in cacao, such as theobromine, provide a similar boost without the risk of jitters and crashes," she explains. "Plus, the addition of lion’s mane and MCT oil can improve focus. One recent study on lion’s mane demonstrated an improvement in working memory, attention, reaction time and mood two hours after ingestion."

That said, I always enjoy my cacao in the evening after dinner if I'm craving something sweet or something to help me wind down before bedtime - something the nutritionist backs. "Cacao can also make for a soothing evening drink - it's been shown to help regulate circadian rhythms, plus is rich in magnesium, a mineral that promotes muscular relaxation," she shares. Finally, the addition of reishi in this blend helps to promote deeper, better-quality sleep. "Research indicates that reishi increases levels of GABA and serotonin, two calming neurotransmitters which help to reduce sleep latency - the time taken to fall asleep - and increase overall sleep time."

Top tips for using Dirtea Cacao

If you’ve never tried ceremonial cacao or functional mushrooms before Berry suggests starting with a half-dose. "Try and notice how you feel - everyone's response is different," she shares. While some will find it energising, others will find it relaxing and the ideal pre-bedtime soother.

Follow the below steps to make the perfect mug:

• Place your powder in a mug (one tablespoon or six grams).
• Add a little hot water.
• Then, stir until the powder has fully dissolved and melted.
• Top up with hot water or milk as desired. 
• If you have a sweeter tooth, Berry recommends adding a dash of raw honey or maple syrup.

Dirtea Cacao review

So, how did I get on with the product? 

By now, you'll have guessed I'm a fan of the product, but it is worth pointing out here that it's an investment, for sure. At £49.99 for 30 servings, you're looking at around £1.60 a mug. That said, some might say you can't put a price on health, and it's certainly clear that the Dirtea team seem to go above and beyond to ensure they're only using the best ingredients and dosages in their products (sure, other mushroom products on the market might be cheaper, but as Boellinger points out, could contain such a small dose that you won't reap any of the benefits). 

I first tested the Dirtea cacao at an event with the brand about a year ago, where they encouraged us to drink a cup before a soothing meditation and breathwork session. I went into it feeling pretty sceptical - as I said, I test products for a living and have seen plenty in my time that categorically do not do what they promise on the tin - but fast forward 45 minutes and I was feeling unbelievably chilled out (no mean feat, as someone who constantly has thousands of tabs open in her brain and often finds it difficult to switch off). 

Eager to decipher whether it was just the meditation and breathwork that had chilled me out, I started drinking a mug of the cacao before bed each evening. First thing to note: it tastes great, unlike other mushroom blends I've tried before. I'd even go as far as to say you can't taste the mushrooms - instead, you get to enjoy a warming, slightly bitter mug of hot chocolate. 

Secondly, it's incredibly easy to incorporate into your daily routine and feels more like a treat than a supplement. While I'm all for protein shakes and electrolytes after my long runs, I'll be the first to say they're not the tastiest components of my diet. Dirtea, though, has managed to produce a goodness-backed supplement that only needs a bit of hot water and frothy milk and voila - creamy, wellness-boosted hot chocolate. (Trust me on this one). 

Lastly - and the main reason I think I keep coming back to the product - I cannot stress enough how soothing and calming I've found it, so much so it's become one of my favourite parts of my pre-bedtime routine. I want to stress here that no product will ever be a cure-all or a replacement for a healthy, balanced diet. Eating protein, fat, carbs and fibre at every meal and prioritising daily movement and hydration will all do far more for your general wellbeing than any supplement will. That said, I know products are good when they stand the test of time in my household, and the fact that I'm still using the product a year down the line means it gets the green light from me. 

While I can't comment on whether it's supported my immune health or "enhanced my beauty" as the website claims - this is a big sweeping statement and one that certainly needs more specific scientific backing to prove its veracity - I do feel that it's helped to boost my sleep quality, alongside other hacks like sleeping with my phone outside of my bedroom and restricting my screentime from around 9pm.

So, question - will you be giving it a try? 

Why go

Although Cowork Park, located in Ascot, was opened over a decade ago and is beloved by many for its beautiful grounds and grand building, it has most definitely not rested on its laurels. In fact, there is so much newness that here are five reasons to visit ASAP.

The food

I will get to the stunning building and rooms later, but I have to start with the food, because both of the restaurants have had a makeover and been taken over by exciting chefs. First off, you have Woven by Adam Smith. I'm not lying when I say I still think about the tasting menu months after my visit. 

It was awarded a one Michelin star just six months after opening, and offers a tapestry of familiar flavours reimagined in unexpected ways. The tasting menu, or culinary journey, begins with a selection of snacks served from the pantry including Truffle potato tart, Coronation chicken and Jellied Devon eel. Other mindblowing dishes focusing around British produce, include Cornish turbot, lobster, truffle, salted grapes and cauliflower; as well as Fallow deer, rhubarb, leeks, timut pepper, tartare tart. Desserts include Yorkshire rhubarb, vanilla, ginger, rhubarb sorbet and Adam’s Signature chocolate, sea salt, crème fraîche, cocoa nibs alongside a wide selection of British cheeses served from the pantry.

Then there are the stunning interiors, designed by Martin Hulbert Design, giving a contemporary and theatrical twist to the Georgian manor.

For a slightly more relaxed experience, head straight to The Barn. Housed in the original barn frame, the new open kitchen and grill champions seasonal ingredients, that Adam Smith uses to give his own twist on comforting British classics.  Think
Smithy’s chicken pie, alongside simple meat, fish and vegetable focused dishes, including Hereford côte de boeuf (to share); Spatchcock quail with rosemary and lemon; and a selection of day boat fish from Cornwall that can all be served either grilled or beer battered. 

The rooms

After the food, the rooms are one of the main reasons to stay here, and you will want to check out at the very last possible second. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to a place to lay your head, with grand bedrooms and suites occupying the mansion house, which epitomise Georgian grandeur without being stuffy.

All rooms can be described as luxe classics fused with modern fixtures; think Bang and Olufsen TV's, signature copper roll-top baths, the fluffiest of towels and pillow sprays to ensure the heartiest of sleeps.

If you'd like to push the boat out, invest in a suite. I stayed in the Mansion House Premium Suite, which offered sweeping views of the 240-acre grounds, which include a sunken garden and wildflower meadow. It is a true sanctuary which perfectly marries rural charm with a contemporary twist, and features a walk-in wardrobe, huge marble bathroom, bedroom and separate living space. I especially love the equestrian art, a nod to Coworth's rich history with horses: you can horse ride, croquet and polo on the professional polo grounds.

The spa

If you can bear to leave your room, then the spa is well worth the visit, even if you're only doing a day trip. It has recently welcomed sound therapy treatments by organic luxury seaweed skincare ishga. The experiences aim to harness the power of sound, translating this into a range of therapeutic sound treatments to accompany ishga’s award-winning products. The new menu is in partnership with Swell, whose unique approach to therapeutic sound was founded by international DJ and music psychology specialist Brian d’Souza, using a combination of Sound Therapy, Music Composition and Biophillia to ensure ishga Sound Treatments capture the essence of the ocean and its home in the Hebrides. 

The 90-minute treatment is designed to work in harmony with the music as it takes the guest on a journey to the Hebrides. It begins with a seaweed foot bath, followed by the chimes of the Singing Bowl that will lead into a Balinese inspired massage, finishing with a warm oil pouring onto the scalp and a relaxing head massage, and concludes with a calming awakening at the end from the music of the Singing Bowl. 

Elsewhere in the spa, you can enjoy massages, facials and body treatments as well as manicures and pedicures, but the real highlight is the indoor pool that's lined with 15 Amethyst crystals that lend an air of tranquillity to the space. It's flanked by a steam room and sauna, in case you need that extra little bit of R&R.

The grounds

Did I mention that the Ascot property is nestled within 240 acres of beautiful nature? This includes a sunken garden, wildflower meadow, a lake, a professional polo ground, tennis courts and much, much more. You can even head to the stables to hire a horse to explore the grounds on.

How to book

Rooms start at £455 in low season and £675 in high season. Book here.

These days, my living room doubles as a Pilates studio. From exercise sliders, to Pilates sculpt bars, to tone-boosting rings, you name it, I probably have it when it comes to Pilates kit. That's why, when Senior Health Editor Ally Head asked me to write this Bala Bangles review, I jumped at the chance.

While you don't need loads of kit to get an effective Pilates workout in - that's the joy of this type of workout - I now train at home pretty much all of the time and so have loved investing in items that take my sessions up a notch.

And as our round up of celebrities who do Pilates proves, I'm not alone in loving the sweat session. Celebs such as Jennifer Aniston, Hailey Bieber and Margot Robbie are all thought to be fans of the low impact workout, with TikTok going wild for wall Pilates and Instagram promoting more beginner-friendly Pilates challenges.

While I've tried both wall Pilates and challenges in my time, there's one thing I've found that's seriously, seriously effective at taking my Pilates sessions to the next level - a pair of the best ankle weights. And not just any ankle weights - Bala Bangles weights (but more on this later).

The benefits of ankle weights span increased resistance, more time under tension and, in turn, increased muscle tone. According to Catie Miller, certified coach and founder of Barre Series, "Ankle weights are not just a relic of '80s workout videos but serve a crucial purpose in modern fitness." How so? Well, "these weights add resistance to your lower body, intensifying movements and engaging muscles more effectively. The extra load challenges the muscles, making them work harder and promoting strength and endurance."

While there are plenty of ankle weights on the market, there's one clear front runner IMO and that's Bala Bangles, a husband and wife-founded company who have been making ankle weights cool since 2018. I've been testing them for well over a year now and, well, I have some thoughts. Keen to read my honest review? Keep scrolling, and don't miss another MC UK staffer's honest ankle weights review, while you're at it.

Bala Bangles: Quick shopping links

• Amazon: 1 Lb Weights, £51
• Free People: Glitter 1 Lb Weights, £74
• Healf: 1 Lb Classic Pink Weights, £39.49
• Free People: Monochrome 2 Lb Weights, £74

My honest Bala Bangles review, after 12 months of testing

What are Bala bangles?

First thing first: what are Bala Bangles? In short, they're sleek ankle weights designed from steel and wrapped in soft silicone. To make sure they fit you snugly and don't fall down during your workout, they have an elastic hook and fasteners on the side. This also offers versatility when it comes to use, allowing you to wear the weights on either your ankles or wrists.

Bala Bangles skyrocketed in popularity during the pandemic. With their chic design and minimalistic branding, these ankle weights have been endorsed by fitness instructors, celebs, and home workout lovers alike. They're still rising in Google Search, too, showing continued interest in the at-home workout tool years down the line.

"Bala Bangles are a popular brand of ankle weight that targets the leg and hip muscles, arms, shoulders and core," comments Louisa Drake, fitness expert and founder of The Louisa Drake Method. Coming in 0.5lb, 1lb and 2lb options, she continues: "The added weight places a greater load on the muscle group being targeted, meaning your muscles have to work harder to move this increased load against gravity, in turn increasing your strength."

That said, she points out that you can wear them to intensify virtually any activity - think ankle weights for walking, hiking, or just tidying the house.

What are the benefits of using Bala bangles?

Using props for exercise is a concept that's been around for years, with resistance bands, ankle weights and yoga blocks just a few of the wide variety of tools designed to help you level up your workout or activate certain muscle groups.

One 2021 study analysing the benefits of using workout props for core muscle activation found that the use of tools equated to a more effective way of activating the participant's core muscles. And while more research on the benefits of ankle weights specifically certainly needs to be done, one 2022 study analysing the effects of ankle weights on the elderly community found that they're a great addition if you're looking to support your limbs and strengthen your muscles (participants simply added them to their daily walks or workouts).

So, what do Pilates experts reckon on their effectiveness? Amanda Baracho, co-founder of X Club studios, they're a great way to elevate your workout intensity, targeting your glutes and legs.

They're also simple to use - you need only strap them on and you're good to go - and far more accessible type of weight for beginners than, say, dumbbells or barbells, which may be intimidating for some.

Miller agrees, adding: "Using props like ankle weights enhances versatility in your workouts, allowing for full-body engagement and contributing to muscle mass development and toning by inducing hypertrophy, the process of muscle fibre repair and growth." Not just that, but props efficiently activate stabiliser muscles, fostering core strength and stability, she adds.

Although Bala Bangles might appear like they won't make your workout much spicier due to their weight, when combined with traditional Pilates moves, they seriously take sweat sessions up a notch (trust me on this one).

What workouts can you use the Bala bangles for?

The versatility of their design leaves the Bala Bangles as a tool for any workout, according to our experts. I've used them for Pilates, yoga, HIIT, walking, and as a compliment to my warm-ups when weight-lifting and running.

After speaking to Eloise Skinner, Pilates, yoga, and group fitness instructor, she outlined some tips to incorporate Bala Bangles into your routine. "Apart from Pilates, barre, and mat-based exercises, you can also use them to anchor your feet during ab or core-focused workouts," she says.

For those looking at incorporating Bala Bangles as part of their pre-workout routine or other fitness disciplines, Skinner recommends adding them to your warm-ups or using them during dance classes or other forms of cardio.

What exercises can you use Bala Bangles with?

Good question. If you're keen to piece together your own workout with moves that you like and feel confident doing, Drake advises using ankle weights to take the following up a gear:

• Weighted lunges
• Donkey kicks
• Squat with leg lift
• Side leg lifts
• Superwoman
• Weight arm circles and punches.

I tried the Bala bangles - my honest review

I've been testing Bala Bangles for well over a year now - so, what's my honest take on the bangles, which are a bit pricier than other alternatives on the market?

Rewing twelve months or so, first. I've tried a lot of ankle weights in my time - weights made from sand, velcro, and even lined with terrycloth. While each has its own pros and cons, I'd heard rave reviews about the soft-silicone Bala design and so couldn't wait to get testing.

My first impression was that the Bala Bangles were super luxe and easy to use (I popped them straight on after unwrapping them and voila - good to go). Not just that, but they're surprisingly compact, not to mention easy to take travelling with you or to the gym, thanks to their own individual carry pouch.

Weight-wise, I opted for the one-pound bangles and tested them over the course of twelve months by using them during my Pilates, HIIT, low impact strength training, and Barre sessions. Additionally, I tested them out on walks and during my work-from-home days to add an extra bit of resistance when moving around my flat.

As for my workouts, I definitely felt that the Bala Bangles added to the challenge of my sessions - in a good way, of course. Unlike other competitor models I'd tried, they didn't move around, dig in, or cause discomfort, rather, sitting snuggly and helping my muscles to work that bit harder on each rep. Similarly, they didn't slide down, making them a great zero-distraction workout addition.

By month three, I was a bit of a convert. They make me look forward to working out and add enough resistance without it feeling overwhelming or daunting. Similarly, a really interesting plus that I've noticed in the year or so since I've been using my Bala Bangles weekly is improved balance and stability. I noticed it about six months or so in, but I definitely feel they've helped to improve my balance and core strength, too.

Another way I use my Bala's is during my warm ups. I'm currently training for a half marathon and tend to get some pain in my calves during my long runs, which a physio told me is related to weak leg muscles. At their advice, I've been mixing my warm ups using resistance bands and ankle weights, and feel confident that I'm strengthening my muscles enough to support me over the 13.1 mile distance.

One con to note: during high-intensity workouts like HIIT, they do ride down slightly. To work around this, I started strapping them on extra tight, but they aren't the most comfortable worn this way, so I'd recommend wearing them at a comfortable tightness and using them largely for low-intensity exercise.

You don't just have to use them during workouts, mind - that's half of the appeal of Bala Bangles. I love popping them on for mundane tasks like walks around my neighbourhood or household chores. Adding the ankle weights helped increase the resistance my muscles were feeling just slightly, and believe it or not, I even got a few compliments on how chic and luxe they looked.

During my work-from-home days, they provided a little active challenge while I was on the computer, preparing lunch, or sipping tea - an easy way to incorporate more exercise and movement into my day.

Would I recommend Bala Bangles to a friend?

Short answer - definitely. The unique design, style, and look of Bala get my vote, and I love how easy and appealing they make at-home workouts. I reckon they'd make a great addition to your workout kit and that you'd use them for years to come, too.

They're certainly an investment, but an investment in your health and for life. Plus, mine have proven to be durable and multi-faceted, which is exactly what you want from investment pieces of kit.

Bottom line? Bala Bangles are effective, long-lasting, and my personal favourite. Totally chic.

Shop the best Bala Bangle alternatives:

Look - we know Bala Bangles aren't the most affordable weights out there, and while Sofia raves about the chic, high-performance design, there are some affordable alternatives if you don't want to fork out £50+. Below, we've rounded up some of the best for you to shop, if you're on a budget but don't want to compromise on style. They're scarily similar in design, and rest assured that they all come highly-rated too.

For as long as I can remember, getting my period became synonymous with excruciating pain - the type of pain that leaves you bedridden for at least two days. That's where this Myoovi review comes in, as I've been testing the TENS device for three months after a colleague raved about how it's all but banished her debilitating period pains.

While I didn't get particularly heavy periods, I have been through the lot when it comes to methods that promise to help. After two unsuccessful attempts at the combined pill, a lot of yoga for period pain and even more medicine later, I decided it was time to try a new tactic.

Enter stage right, the Myoovi machine, a small yet powerful device designed to distract the brain from the pain your body is experiencing. Sure, it sounds a little out there, but I was keen to try it for myself. 

As a typically sceptical person, I decided that the only way I could test this product was by putting it through the wringer for three menstrual cycles. I also tested in different locations, and just when I thought I couldn’t learn more about this device,  I lent it to a friend who was going through a coeliac cross-contamination reaction. 

Keep scrolling to read more about my Myoovi experience, how TENS machines work, and how I got on for the three months I tested.

Myoovi review: "By month three, I couldn't imagine my period without it"

How does Myoovi work?

Good question. Well, it comes shaped like a butterfly and is designed to be charged and then applied to your lower stomach. It has a small gel pad which uses transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to transmit small pulses on the abdomen or back. 

“TENS technology works by sending pulses to the area in which you place the device, explains Dr. Adam Hamdi, Founder of Myoovi. "These pulses block your pain receptors from receiving pain signals in the area and effectively act by distracting your brain from noticing the pain is there."

Dr. Hamdi came up with the idea for Myoovi while working for the NHS - he says he encountered countless patients that wanted to avoid taking pain medication for period cramps so, as a solution, he recommended TENS technology. He reflects that he often got mixed responses from his patients. “Most were reluctant to use one given they were typically bulky and full of wires,” he explains. “That inspired me to not only produce a device that is effective and discreet - in other words, provides relief and can easily be used on the go, but also in the process launch a holistic menstrual health brand that aims to provide science-backed products.”

How do I put Myoovi on?

First things first - unboxing the device when it landed on my desk. It comes in a neat box with interchangeable adhesive pads, a charger, an instruction booklet, a carrier pouch, and a clean plastic file for the device to stick on whilst it’s not in use. 

I found putting it on very simple - I simply peeled the plastic file and placed it on my abdomen when I needed distraction from the pain. Do note here: my colleague had warned me to be sure to avoid turning the device on until it is fully stuck to the skin and don't turn it on before sticking to your stomach. She warned that failing to do so can lead to a slight shock to the fingers or hands, which as I learnt, can be a little painful.

As for the settings, there is a range so you can decide on the intensity. I started off with the low-to-middle pulse setting, designed for beginners. This eases you in as if you’re not familiar with TENS technology, it can take a couple of minutes to get used to. Keeping it on a lower setting helped to ease my body into it, and once I was more accustomed to the sensation, I could turn the intensity up.

My Myoovi review

Month one, and I got my period mid-week, meaning I really got to test where and when you can use the device. The website states that it's suitable for use anywhere, and after testing, I can confirm this is true - that first period, I used the Myoovi at home, in the office, and out and about. 

With my cramps beginning, I avoided my routine paracetamol and instead, popped into the office bathroom to place it on my lower abdomen and turn it on.

I was a little apprehensive to leave the bathroom wearing the device, fearing that it would be too noticeable or distracting. However, I settled into it pretty quickly and completely forgot about I was even wearing it - a good sign.

When sitting down, I noticed it a little more, especially when wearing tight jeans. That said, all it needed was a little adjustment (just be careful to avoid an energy zap when doing so). All in all, the device was discreet enough to get me through my work day pain-free - an absolute win.

For my second month of testing the device, my period came during the weekend which was perfect as I was able to test wearing it more outdoors. I absolutely loved it, using it on walks, hanging out with friends, and running errands. I did, however, make sure to not use it whilst working out or sleeping. as advised.

By month three, I couldn't imagine getting through my period without it. My body felt at ease when using the device. While it took me a little bit of time to get accustomed to the pulsations as a first-time TENS user, once I got used to the feeling, I was able to enjoy period cramp relief within the first ten minutes of turning it on. 

Have I completely gotten rid of my paracetamol? No, but, I have heavily reduced the amount of medicine I take during my period, which is a huge plus. There's nothing wrong with taking painkillers every now and then, but relying on them every month like clockwork wasn't ideal.

What amazed me the most was that the TENS machine made me forget my lighter cramps were even happening. For the more intense cramping, I could still feel a slight pain, but it was noticeably less painful. 

Technology aside, another thing I noticed with Myoovi was how impressive the device’s battery life was. In the past three months, I've charged it two times and used it for prolonged periods of time. This is great news for those of us who'll want to use the product for long periods of time or have irregular periods that make it uneasy to have a fully charged device waiting at all times. 

Will Myoovi work for you?

Good question. Dr. Poobashni Govender, Medical Director at Rainbow Labs, warns that it's a case-by-case situation as most women will experience different monthly cycles and pain levels. 

"Many women have reported that TENS machines have helped with their cramps, but the degree of effectiveness varies considerably between individuals," Dr. Govender continues. "According to recent research, the use of TENS for dysmenorrhea (pain associated with menstruation) helps to reduce the amount and frequency of pain relief required. "

Can I use it beyond my menstrual cramps?

Now this is where it gets interesting. Naturally, I was intrigued - if TENS machines are effective at distracting me from period pain, can they distract from other pain, too?

I put it to the test one day when out for lunch with a friend who is a coeliac and highly allergic to dairy. After a meal out, she found herself in agony after getting cross contaminated. The symptoms she encounters with her reactions are mostly in her mid to lower stomach. 

Her usual go-to is a traditional heated water bottle. However, during this instance, I lent my Myoovi device to her to see if it would help. After a couple of minutes, she noticed a decrease in abdominal pain. The swelling in her stomach remained, but the discomfort had definitely decreased. 

However, it is important to note that as much as TENS can help some, it is not a long-term solution. "TENS  may provide temporary relief for some. However, it is not widely considered as an effective pain management tool for the likes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis," says Dr. Govender. "These conditions require a comprehensive treatment plan with the help of a Gastroenterologist, specifically as some medications may make these conditions worse."

It’s not an exaggeration to say that I've been on the hunt for the best workout leggings for as long as I can remember. While I always opt for high waisted gym leggings, I've found it massively hard to find a pair that last the test of time, aren’t eye-wateringly expensive, and flatter a curvier shape, too.

More often than not, I’m left yanking at a rolling waistband mid-mountain climber and hoping the seams don’t give up during Reformer pilates. So it’s fair to say that the search for gym leggings that are as soft as they are supportive and don’t lose their shape after a few washes has been frustrating. And expensive. 

At Marie Claire UK, we have an excellent and thorough product testing system to ensure that your money is only being spent on things that do what they promise. In turn, you’ll also be doing your bit for the planet by buying - and therefore binning - less.

And as someone who has been desperate for gym leggings that perform well and make me feel good, I can finally say I have found them - and I am genuinely obsessed. No gatekeeping here - in fact, I can’t shut up about them.

Spanx are perhaps best known for their shapewear, so when I first heard about their Active line I was a little unsure. How comfortable could a workout be in a pair of leggings that emulate the tight tuck of their infamous knickers?

It turns out, very. 

As soon as I start testing, I realise that their Booty Boost leggings are a best seller for a reason. They're functional, fashion-forward, and hugely flattering too - but more on that below. For my honest review of the Spanx leggings, keep scrolling. Don't miss our edits of the best gym wear and best activewear brands, while you're here.

Spanx Booty Boost leggings review: “Hands down the most supportive and flattering gym leggings I’ve ever worn.”

You can probably guess from the name that these Spanx gym leggings promise to give your behind a boost and, after testing, I can indeed confirm that the compression waistband and cleverly placed seams do indeed work together to give your derrière a lift. 

So, what makes these leggings different to those from other popular activewear brands? Why am I telling anyone who will listen that they’re worth every penny? And what are they doing so well that my sister - who is both frugal and indecisive - has also jumped on the bandwagon? 

For me, the biggest win with the Booty Boosts is how secure I feel when wearing them. I know that regardless of the workout, I’m tucked in and ready to go - zero time wasted on faffing with the waistband. They also don’t have a central seam at the front (read: no camel toe potential) and I feel so confident and comfortable wearing them that I can be found in a pair most days. 

Another plus point is that they’re actually true to size. At first glance, they look very small - and if you’ve ever had to fight your way into a pair of shapewear knickers you’ll know the fear of feeling strapped in with the lingering panic of how you're going to peel yourself out. But it’s a surprisingly easy feat to get them on (and off), and the range comes in sizes XS to 3XL. At 5ft 8 and a UK size 16, I tested the L and they were the right smoothing fit, tight without being restrictive and length-wise they just skim the ankle.

In terms of functionality, they tick all the boxes: they’re breathable, sweat-wicking and squat-proof and, whether I’m throwing myself into burpees at a HIIT class or attempting to replicate a pretzel at my favourite yoga studio, the material feels thick and strong enough to keep me in place. I've no doubt they're the most supportive gym leggings I’ve ever worn. 

They also look great. I’m currently a UK size 16, and my weight has fluctuated over the years. The one thing I have consistently found with plus size workout leggings is that they rarely perform well and look fantastic. However, the Booty Boosts’ USP is a soft and sculpting fabric that includes a contoured waistband, thus giving your glutes the attention they deserve. 

Plus, they look as good at a brunch as they do at the gym. Do I feel equally as unstoppable while wearing them with a cute jumper and toting a flat white? Absolutely.

If you’re looking for an abundance of colour options, however, you may feel a little limited. I’m easily pleased with black and navy, but the range doesn’t offer hues beyond the additional dark green, maroon and grey.  

Finally, let’s talk cost. While they are on par with other premium brands in terms of price point, if you consider yourself as less of a five-times-a-week gym bunny and more of a moderate mover, it is definitely something to consider. I get it, because same. I used to buy cheaper alternatives and resist investing in pricier leggings for fear of wasting money - but I would then be frequently replacing them due to their lack of durability. Not only does that make gym leggings an expensive habit over time, it is also adding to textile waste and landfills. 

After testing the Spanx Booty Boost leggings for almost three months - at the gym, at brunch, at home during a Netflix binge - I can safely say that after near-constant wear they haven’t lost quality. No sagging, no bobbles, so no need to buy any more.

Oh, and my friends are converts, too. Cue Activewear by Skit Box...

If you're searching the Internet for Symprove reviews, you've likely heard about the raved-about gut health probiotic. A firm celeb favourite used by stars including Alexandra Burke, Millie Mackintosh, Chloe Delevigne, and Gemma Atkinson, it's long been one of the most popular supplements on the market.

Why? Well, the unique, water-based probiotic contains four strains of live and active bacteria which, once delivered to your gut, promise to boost your gut microbiome. While the research is still constantly evolving, a landmark 2021 study found that having a healthy gut microbiome might be even more important than we initially thought, lowering our of illnesses including heart disease and more. 

Professor Tim Spector, an epidemiologist who lead the above study, said: “When you eat, you’re not just nourishing your body, you’re feeding the trillions of microbes that live inside your gut.”

Having a healthy gut microbiome also promises to reduce your risk of inflammation, bloating, and skin conditions like acne. 

Needless to say, I was keen to give it a go - so, why Symprove? Well, it's slightly different from other probiotics on the market as it comes in liquid form, which they explain on their website is key to avoiding triggering your digestive system. This in turn delivers a higher percentage of live and active bacteria to your gut. Not only that, but the company launched in 1988 and has been working on perfecting the formula ever since.

Keen to see how I got on? Keep reading for my full review. Don't miss our guides to gut health, gut health hacks, and what causes bloating, while you're here. 

I tried the much-loved celeb-backed supplement - here's my honest Symprove review

What is Symprove?

As above, a liquid supplement that promises to deliver ten billion bacteria to your gut for every 70ml cupful. 

I recommend following qualified dietician Dr Megan Rossi (PhD, RD, APD) @theguthealthdoctor and nutritional therapist Eve Kalinik @evekalinik on Instagram if you're keen to learn more about the gut-brain axis.

Which celebrities swear by Symprove?

As above, Alexandra Burke, Millie Mackintosh, Chloe Delevigne, and Gemma Atkinson are all fans of the brand.

When I spoke exclusively to Millie about her love of the supplement, she said the main reason she uses Symprove is so she both looks and feels her best. "The gut is often called our second brain and plays a key role in our overall health," she explains. "I know to look and feel my best that it’s really important to look after my body from the inside out."

What health benefits has she seen since taking the supplement? "I’ve been using Symprove for around six or seven years as part of my ongoing wellness routine - I swear by it," she shared with MC.

"I was first recommended it by facialist Nichola Joss after telling her I was having breakouts and she explained I needed to look after my gut health to have healthy skin. I suffer from bloating from time to time and used to get IBS symptoms, but since using Symprove, my digestion is great, and I rarely get ill."

We know Millie isn't a qualified professional, but we do know she is into her health and fitness, plus was recommended the product by a pro.

How do you take Symprove?

They recommend you try for at least twelve weeks to see an improvement, so I ordered enough to cover that time frame. 

It's as simple as taking a shot ten minutes before your breakfast every morning, so super easy to incorporate into your daily routine. 

How much does Symprove cost?

It's not cheap - at £78 for a four-week pack, I could book a night at a nice hotel for the same price. That being said, if you buy twelve weeks in one go, you get it for the same price as eight weeks worth.

What did I think of Symprove?

Would I come out of my twelve-week stint sans bloat, fatigue and acne? Yep, it's fair to say I had high hopes for the supplement.

Month one

Stocking my fridge with the liquid supplements when they arrive, I'm keen to get going. I've read loads of independent research about the gut-brain axis, and while I try to eat as much fruit and veg as possible, feel like committing to a supplement every morning could take my gut health up a level. 

While there are original and strawberry and raspberry options available on the website, I went for the mango and passionfruit option. On the first sip, it's tart, slightly sour but drinkable - definitely a drink I could get used to drinking every morning. 

Waiting ten minutes before I eat breakfast isn't an issue and I like that it gives more structure to my morning routine. 

Come the end of month one and I'm really enjoying my new habit. 

Month two

Come month two and I'm firmly in the swing of things. While I haven't noticed any major changes, I am noticeably less bloated - something which I'd struggled with prior to taking the supplement. 

My hunger queues seem more regular, too. I normally work out in the morning and wait until I'm at my desk to drink my smoothie or eat my eggs and veg. It's for no other reason other than not feeling hungry until then (plus, liking to give my stomach a break between dinner and breakfast). That said, since supplementing Symprove, I find myself hungry within half an hour or so of waking up, meaning I make more time for a nourishing breakfast at home.

Of course, it's important to note here that without a qualified professional taking my stats pre and post-supplementation, I won't know for sure. I can only share with you how I felt, and by the end of the second month, I did notice some changes. 

The most notable, as above, were the bloating and the hunger queues - not game-changing, but noticeable. 

Month three

Month three swings around in no time and I've quite enjoyed my new probiotic-boosted supplement. Plus, after patiently sipping the flavoured supplement every morning for 90 days, I can confidently say that I have noticed a difference.

As above, my bloating has improved - I can't remember the last time I got a painful bloat, which I was prone to - plus, my hunger queues are noticeably back. Now, I enjoy my stomach telling me when I'm hungry, listening to my body, and honouring what my body needs. 

Not to mention the fact that my bowel movements are regular. Probably TMI, but a great sign, as someone who's health-conscious, that things are working as they should be down there.

Sadly, though,  I didn't notice a difference in my hormonal acne, which is where I'd been hoping to see the most change. Perhaps if I tried the supplement for longer, this would change, but I wouldn't recommend to those buying solely to improve their skin woes, simply because it didn't help mine.

Was Symprove worth it? Final thoughts

Aka, would I be investing my own money in the supplement?

That, I'm not sure about - it's a lot of money, and I've read enough about improving your gut health from qualified nutritionists to know that one of the easiest ways to boost your good bacteria is just to eat a varied diet packed full of lots of different varieties of fruit, veg, nuts, seeds, carbs, fats and proteins.

However, I did love the ease with which I incorporated it into my daily routine and the feeling of boosting my gut bacteria with ten billion live cultures every morning. Will you be giving it a go? 

This article was originally published in 2021 after three months of testing. It has since been updated.

As a Health Editor and eight-time marathon runner, it's safe to say I can judge the best running trainers from, well, trainers that won't actually support you or provide the cushion you need for your long runs. 

Disclaimer here: as with anything in life, what trainer works for me won't necessarily work for you. A bit like diets or workout routines, what shoe is perfect for you will depend on your feet - your gait type, pronation, and more.

That said, the newly upgraded Nike Invincible 3 promises to be a pretty great all-rounder and support you over anything from a short 2km jog around the park to a full marathon. 

Being honest, I've never really gotten on with Nike shoes before (bar the Vaporfly's for race day, which as you will see below and in our edit of the best gym trainers, are my go-to race day shoe, and the Metcon's, a firm favourite in our edit of the best crosstraining shoes). I've previously found the raved-about Nike Pegasus too narrow (I have wide feet) and the Alphafly too noisy. 

But when I was invited down to be one of the first to try the newly improved Nike Invincible 3, I was intrigued. The Invincible 2 is known in the running world as being a reliable workhorse, suitable for three to 26.2 miles, so I'm keen to see how they've improved the design.

Nike Invincible 3 review: "The latest improvements to the widely loved running trainer get a yes from me"

The first thing I notice when putting the new shoe on? The Invincible 3 is comfortable. As in, possibly one of the most comfortable shoes I've ever tried.

They're easy to slip on and while the upper is snug, it's not too tight (something I've found to be the case with other Nike designs).

When run testing, I found them springy, supportive and responsive, and more stable than other competitor models on the market at current. That's likely thanks to their uber-bouncy ZoomX foam, which offers a seriously cushioned running experience.

The main standout highlight for me was the wider forefoot shape - it's noticeably roomier than previous versions and ideal for someone like me with wide feet who often finds Nike designs slightly on the narrow side. The foam height is higher, too, which promises an even softer ride.

I'd advise going up half a size, as ever with running trainers to give your feet room to breathe and avoid blisters where possible. 

Wondering what the colourways look like? Us too, and as ever with Nike designs, they're pretty sleek, with four different options for women. I'm personally a fan of the pink, or alternatively the white option above. 

I like the design for gym to gin, too - they're running shoes that will actually support you properly but also go with a trouser suit for office wear (and I'm all for investing in pieces that have more than one use - capsule wardrobes FTW).

All in all, they get my seal of approval - you can't go far wrong with this bouncy, supportive ride. If you're looking to save a bit of money, investing in the cheaper Invincible 2 isn't a bad idea (they've just been reduced as the new version has been released). Happy shopping. 

If you've landed on this Dame Eva Review, chances are, you're as intrigued as me by the myth that sexual wellness brand have finally created a legitimately effective hands-free sex toy. 

Ever even heard of a wearable sex toy before that doesn’t involve penetration or pants? Well, that's where the Dame Eva comes in - the first ever sex toy designed to be held in place by your labia alone. This sex toy doesn’t need to be inserted or clipped on to stay put, even allowing space for a partner or sex toy to penetrate your vagina at the same time too.

Yep - it's certainly different, which is why I, Ness Cooper, a sex expert trained in various fields of sexology from psychosexuality to ecosexuality, have been putting it to the test for you. 

This is the first time I've ever seen such a unique product come from the sex tech sphere, so I was excited to try it, having heard it's one of the best sex toys for couples out there. Keep scrolling for my review, and don't miss my Womanizer OG review, We-Vibe Tango X review, and Satisfyer Heated Thrill review, while you're here. 

Dame Eva Review “A game changer for orgasms during sex - it's magical”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

First things first - the fact that it's the world's first totally hands-free sex toy is pretty amazing. So, how does it work? Well, the flexible arms on the Eva apply a small amount of pressure between the inner labia, stabilising the sex toy and keeping it in position. 

This means you're free to add additional sex toys, if you fancy. As the Dame Eva rests over the clitoris, you can easily use a vibrator or dildo at the same time (best sex toys for penetration at the ready). 

Not to mention the fact that it's multi-faceted - you can wear it in a whole range of different sex positions and it promises to stay in place (gone are the days of no clit stimulation during sex). 

We all know that most women reach orgasm via clitoral stimulation, which means this toy significantly ups the likelihood of you reaching orgasm.

It's also an option for those who want to try sex toys but aren't looking for penetration (read my Lovehoney Vibrating Love Egg review, here - another great non-penetrative option).

How to use the Dame Eva and how it was

First things first, a little how-to position: you need to fully spread and hold both your inner and outer labia apart. Then, press the arms of the Dame Eva close to the toy's body and place it over your clitoris. Next, release your labia and the folds of your vulva (this should press your labia against the toy's arms and hold it in place).

While it took some getting used to, I found that the Dame Eva stayed in position better when further upwards.

So, how did it actually feel when testing? Good question. Once you’ve gotten use to the placement of the Dame Eva, it's really fun to explore with (simply press the single button on the top to get things started). 

My first time using the sex toy, I decided it would be best to explore using it solo. I found that I was able to insert other sex toys when the Eva was positioned over my clitoris but larger penetrative sex toys and those with extremely strong vibrations moved the Dame Eva out of place.

When using the toy during penile to vaginal sex, some sex positions made the vibrator fall out. The more forceful the sex with my partner, the more likely it was to be thrown out of place - not to mention that in certain positions, the toy made some very loud buzzing noises despite the vibrations being on the weaker side. 

We found so many positions that it did work well in, though - I'd just recommend experimenting and working out what works for you. 

The Eva definitely upped my chances of experiencing orgasm during penetrative sex, and the toy's arms stimulated more areas of my vulva than a standard clitoral sex toy. 

Bored of using it hands-free? It's multi-faceted and can be used as a finger vibrator or underwear vibrator, too (for the latter, the arms hook around your underwear). This means you can take your sexual exploration up a notch, both solo or with a partner. 

How to keep it maintained and clean

The Dame Eva is waterproof and fairly easy to clean with warm water and your standard sex toy cleaner. 

That said, once it's dry I recommend popping it back into its storage bag with it's charging pod. It's important to remember to charge, too, as the toy only has an hour's battery life after four full hours of charging. 

About the brand Dame

Since 2014 the founder of Dame, a sexologist called Alex Fine, has been on a mission - to close the pleasure gap and encourage all women to feel empowered in the bedroom. 

Made by women, for women, while they're known for their unique and innovative sex toy designs, their advertising turns heads, too. It's widely regarded as some of the most successful and creative in the sex tech space and might be the reason why they're one of the only sex toy companies ever to be able to advertise on the New York subway. 

Dame also explores their customer needs and desires around sex tech more than other brands. They run a research lab called Dame Lab which listens to feedback from over 10,000 sex toy users.

Should I buy it?

When the Dame Eva works and stays in place it feels pretty liberating and magical - as I pointed out, it can stay in position during various types of erotic play. Plus, I loved the fact that you could use it in lots of different ways, meaning the fun doesn't end if it doesn’t fit your vulva.

Sure, it took some getting used to, but it's a genius bit of kit that's definitely worth your patience. It gets my seal of approval, that's for sure... 

Spoiler alert: this isn't just a Dame Arc review but the answer to finding your G-spot. Yep, you read that right - trying to find your G-spot can be a hard enough, but the clever and unique design of this toy will certainly help.

G-spot orgasms have been pretty hyped up over the past decade, with some calling them the holy grail of sexual pleasure. That said, not everyone gets the same pleasure from G-spot stimulation, so it's important not to feel left out if it just doesn't do it for you.

That's why I think the Dame Arc is one of the best sex toys - not only is it designed for G-spot stimulation, but external and clitoral vibration, too, making it really multi-faceted. 

A bit of background for you, before I jump into my review: the G-spot was discovered almost 75 years ago, yet many are still on the fence about its existence. Regardless of this, many will find internal G-spot sex toys more pleasurable to use than other shaped sex toys. I certainly do - I’m Ness Cooper, a clinical sexologist and sex toy reviewer whose been testing G-spot vibes professionally for over ten years.

Some have been badly designed, some haven't been powerful enough, and some just don’t work, but this Dame Arc review is a testament to the fact that when they do work, they work. Keep reading this review to find out how to experience amazing pleasure with G-spot sex toys. 

Don’t miss my Lelo Enigma review, Ruby Glow Blush review, and Smile Makers Billionaire review, while you're here.

Dame Arc review: “I found its deep and sensual shape amazing for G-spot orgasms”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

Quick sex science lesson, first: you may have noticed that G-sport toys tend to be curved. This is to stimulate the clitourethrovaginal area (which many call the G-spot) which is located at the front of your vagina.

So, why the curve? Well, curved sex toys are meant to offer deeper pressure on the G-spot area, leading many to experience an intense orgasm.

The Dame Arc’s curve promises to be just the right angle for the G-spot area (other competitors are quite intense and can feel a bit uncomfortable rather than pleasurable). On top of this, the surface of the tip is wider than some G-spot vibrators, meaning that there’s a higher chance it’ll find (and pleasure) your G-spot area.

Plus, the Arc has a slightly raised ridge in the centre of the tip designed to direct more focused vibrations when used externally on the clitoris. Foreplay win..

How to use the Dame Arc and how it was

Packed with a storage bag, USB charge, sticker, and booklet complete with an instruction QR code, you even explore workshops by other sexperts, if you're after even more tips.

Often I wouldn’t use a curved G-spot vibrator for foreplay but the slightly raised ridge designed by Dame had me intrigued. I enjoyed the soft stimulation, and it did a great job of turning me on. 

Turning the toy on, it uses rumbly style vibrations which I found travelled deeper than buzzy vibrations, allowing for more intense stimulation across my G-spot area.

On the insertion front - it is worth noting that the Arc can be a bit more fiddly compared to a classic-shaped vibrator. That's where our guide to the best lubes comes in (definitely use it here for a stress-free and comfortable insertion). 

Other need-to-knows: I was a fan of the curved tip, found the buttons easy to use, plus thought that the Arc's long body allows you enough surface area to hold the sex toy while inside you (important for G-spot orgasms as you often need consistent and rhythmic motions). 

Hot tip: if you’re struggling to hit your G-spot area, try tilting and twisting the vibrator slightly toward one thigh. This may help find the spot for you.

How to keep it maintained and clean

The silicone is easy to clean in warm water and with your standard sex toy cleaner.  

Once dry, it takes two hours to recharge. Make sure you remember to charge - you'll have a total of 1.5 hours of playtime when you do remember to charge. 

About Dame

Fun fact for you: Dame was one of the first sex toy brands to successfully crowdfund some of their designs through Kickstarter and Indiegogo. 

Now they’re one of the world's leading brands - designed by women, for women -with a revenue of over $1 million.

Should I buy it?

The Dame Arc is definitely worth investing in, in my opinion.

It's a good sex toy for both internal and external play, which means that even if you don’t get along with it as a G-spot toy, there’s still hope it’ll be fun to use on your external erogenous zones and clitoris.

So, you're keen to read my Dame Aer review. Fun fact for you: the suction toy promises to be the smallest and lightest oral sex toy out there, packing a punch with small yet mighty airwave technology.

Like how a tongue feels when it flutters during oral sex? Then you should try this suction toy. Sure, there are other oral sex suction sex toys out there, but as a professional sex toy reviewer, this is one of my favourites.

Why? Well, you'll have to keep reading to find out, but it's light as a feather, simple to use, and designed by a sexual wellness brand I'm a big fan of, too. 

More about me, while I'm here: I decided early on that I wanted a career with a difference. which resulted in me becoming a professional sex toy tester and reviewer. I’m Ness Cooper, a sex and relationship therapist and clinical sexologist. Each day, I answer people's most intimate relationship, intimacy, and sex questions honestly and openly.

For my honest and open take on the toy - keep scrolling. Don't miss my Womanizer OG review, We-Vibe Tango X review, and Satisfyer Heated Thrill review, while you're here.

Dame Aer review: “Comfortably light yet still extremely powerful”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

The Aer is a small, lightweight and easy-to-hold clitoral suction sex toy. Similar sex toys include the Lelo Sila, Lovehoney Rose, Smile Makers Poet, and Womanizer Pro40 but they're all heavier and larger than the Aer.

Unlike other brands, the Dame Aer has a flexible clitoral nozzle which I found more comfortable. The flexibility of the nozzle also means that when the sex toy gets knocked mid-session, it's less likely to move off your sweet spot, meaning that your solo pleasure session can continue without interruption.

Dame uses ergonomic buttons which are easy to use and less likely to knock to a different vibration setting (there are five to choose from).

How to use the Dame Aer and how it was

I am already a suction sex toy convert but the Aer is probably one of my favourites to use. That's because it's both simple and comfortable to position, plus the buttons on the Aer are ergonomic (there's much less of a chance of miss-clicking and changing settings mid-mood).

When testing, I found that the clitoral nozzle is more comfortable than other bulkier suction sex toys plus the chamber is just the right size for my body. Add in the intense suction and vibration patterns and the Aer doesn’t disappoint - each use has led me to experience an amazing orgasm.

It can be used easily alongside other sex toys, including insertable vibrators and dildos (read up on our go-to's in our best sex toy guide).

I found that with the Dame Aer, you can feel more of a build-up towards your orgasm, unlike some other suction sex toy designs (I've found that with others, the orgasm can be amazing, but sneak up on you a bit and catch you by surprise). This means you're able to enjoy the sensations more before, during, and even after.

When moving around a lot or pushing the Aer firmly against my body, the vibrating air pulses don’t cut out or get weaker, which I found impressive. Many other popular oral sex toys with suction chambers simply cut off and stop working when too much pressure or movement is applied to the nozzles chamber - but not with the Aer.

I’d happily trust the toy in the hands of my partner due to how the nozzle is flexible - I think that there’s less of a chance for my partner to cause me accidental discomfort. However, I have found that its shape doesn’t work well in close body-to-body sex positions where your partner rests over your clitoral area. For comfortable sex position ideas, check out our Kamasutra positions guide.

How to keep it maintained and clean

While the Dame Aer is waterproof, the clitoral chamber can be a bit difficult to clean - using a cotton bud or similar may help.

The rest of the sex toy can easily be washed with warm water and your standard antibacterial sex toy cleaner.

About Dame

Dame is a sexual wellness company that not only produces sex toys that work but also offers expert advice and workshops produced by a team of trained sex experts through their clinical board.

Sexual wellness is one of their key priorities and one we echo here at Marie Claire UK

Should I buy it?

The Aer may be lightweight and smaller than other oral sex suction sex toys, but it’s probably one of my favourites. Why? Well, it's one of the most powerful in my collection, for starters.

That, and its flexible nozzle is really commendable. I wish more brands offered this on their suction sex toys, as firmer nozzles can be uncomfortable and have a higher chance of moving around during solo sex, often killing the mood. This doesn't happen with the Dame Aer, though - yep, I'm a fan...

So, you're keen to read my Womanizer OG review. Let me enlighten you, first - because yes, oral sex sensations can be achieved against your G-spot, it turns out.

Womanizer is one of the first brands to achieve this - no mean feat, I'll add. Let’s face it - suction vibrators and sex toys are pretty great already, and we’ve worked out that suction sex tech can be used on loads of external erogenous zones. 

Next up: internal. For a while, sex experts and sexologists thought it wasn’t possible (or, well, pleasurable). That is, until Womanizer took a leap with the Womanizer OG. 

That's where I come in: I'm Ness Cooper, a sexologist who's been testing out the Womanizer OG for you (full review, below).  Worried about it being a new toy? I've reviewed sex toys for over ten years and believe that Air Pulse Technology is perfectly safe and pleasurable to use against your G-spot. For my full take on the new toy - keep reading. 

Womanizer OG review: “It can suck areas you thought wouldn’t be possible - it's really good.”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

There are a lot of external clitoral suction vibrators on the market, but the Womanizer OG is one of the first internal ones, making it pretty unique. The OG has a flexible G-spot shaft, which other brands such as Je Joue have explored before but never with the addition of suction vibration.

Other standout facts: the Womanizer OG has a "smart silent" feature. This means that the pleasure air pulse technology won't turn on if the shaft isn’t in contact with the body. When testing, while I found this fiddly to begin with, I still think it's a great addition to the toy.

With other internal suction vibrators on the market, once the internal suction is on it’s hard to turn off. Not with the Womanizer OG, though, which will switch off when you take the sex toy out. 

Be assured, suction sex toys are safe to use internally (don't listen to any scaremongering) but they can be a bit uncomfortable to remove. You were warned.

Another fun feature is the "afterglow" function, which slowly turns down the vibrator settings once you've reached orgasm. This is great as I found it reduces any uncomfortable sensations when removing the toy.

How to use the OG Womanizer and how it was

First impression: the Womanizer OG’s box is massive, and while it feels exciting to open, it could definitely be smaller (and more sustainable - lots of unnecessary packaging). 

Opening the box, I found the OG alongside the USB cable and storage bag. Popping it on charge straight away, I was curious about how air pulse technology would feel inside my body and against my G-spot.

Compared to the Womanizer Pro 40, the Womanizer OG has a flatter body, which made it slightly harder to position. Similarly, when positioned over my clitoris, it had less room to expand in, making it harder to enjoy than when using one of Womanizer's clitoral suction sex toys.

That said, it was really pleasurable to use once I got used to it. It was a different experience altogether - think buzzing vibrations buzzed, sucking air pulse technology and a slight flicking sensation against my vaginal wall. When it rested against my G-spot area, it felt amazing.

One thing to note - even with the flexibility of the G-spot shaft, I found it hard to keep the sex toy rested in the right position to continuously hit my G-spot (my pelvic floor sometimes pushed it out of position and the OG’s Smart Silent function would sometimes stop the air pulse technology). 

That said, when it did stay in place, the orgasm was incredible (almost addictive). The shaft isn't easy and the buttons are difficult to use, though, so I often found it hard to reach this intensity of pleasure.

In short, when it works, it’s amazing, but when it doesn’t, it’s a bit of a letdown.

How to keep it maintained and clean

As the Womanizer OG is waterproof, it’s fairly easy to clean with your standard sex toy cleaner and warm water.

The air pulse chamber may need extra addition, but it’s not as fiddly as some sex toys when cleaning. 

Once it’s dry pop it into its cotton storage bag ready for next time.

About the brand Womanizer

OG and Womanizer is part of WOW Tech, one of the first companies to ever launch pleasure air technology (the tech that simulates the feeling of oral sex). 

Fun fact: they're also one of the first big brands of sex toys to ever produce fully biodegradable sex tech.

Should I buy it?

When the Womanizer OG stays where it’s meant to be, it’s really amazing and makes you want more and more. 

The pleasure air technology can be used on various parts of the body, nipples, clitoris, G-spot, anus, penis, and erogenous zones. It’s pretty versatile and the shaft length makes all these pleasure opportunities in easy to reach.

Sometimes it doesn't work - but if you won't find this disappointing, definitely *add to basket* ASAP. 

So, you're keen to read my We-Vibe Tango X review? It's a pretty amazing toy if you hadn't guessed from that intro - so much so, I back it as one of the greatest bullet vibrators to be invented over the last few decades. 

A bit of background for you, before I get into my review: the original We-Vibe Tango bullet vibrator came out in 2010. It was so well received that it quickly changed the perception that bullet vibrators were a weaker sex toy option, cementing it as a go-toy of choice (and one of the strongest compact vibrators out there).

The new version, the Tango X, has now taken over the old Tango’s title as one of the best bullet vibrators - keep reading for more details as to why the Tango X deserves to reign high on your sex toy wish list.

Fun fact for you: I'm a sex expert who's been around since the birth of the original Tango. I’m Ness Cooper, a clinical sexologist and sex tech nerd - keep scrolling for my honest We-Vibe Tango X review, and don't miss my We-Vibe Touch X review and Smile Makers The Billionaire review, while you're here.

We-Vibe Tango X review: “As a sex expert, I reckon this is the only bullet you need." 

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

More about the new Tango X design. Its USP is an easy-to-use grip that means even when it’s on max vibrations it won’t buzz out of your hand.

One of the best improvements I noticed on the Tango X is the added controls - the buttons are easier to use and you can change vibration settings more easily (with the old model and many other bullet vibrators, there is one single button to control the entire range of settings). 

Many bullet vibrators have traditionally had weaker vibrations - but not the Tango X, which promises to provide vibrations that travel through the whole vulva and deeper parts of the clitoris.

Note, too, that the brand has made it a priority for your clit not to be made to feel hypersensitive by the toy, meaning you can enjoy the vibrations for longer (up to 120 minutes). With such a long run time, it's also less likely to lose charge during your solo sex sessions compared to traditional vibrators, where the battery power can run low after one masturbation session.

How to use the We-Vibe Tango X and how it was

I opened up the blue We-Vibe box to the toy alongside a detailed instruction booklet, USB cable, storage bag and free pjur lubricant sample. Before trying, do note that you'll need to charge the toy for around 90 minutes (you'll then be able to enjoy two hours of battery life though so win, win). 

First testing, I'd forgotten that the sex toy arrives travel locked. Top tip for you: to turn the travel lock off, hold the plus and minus buttons together for two seconds - you'll feel two pulse vibrations to signal that the travel lock is now deactivated.

Other need-to-knows that I quickly figured out: the plus and minus buttons both control the vibration intensities and the wave-shaped button activates the vibration patterns. Generally, I found that I liked to stick to the continuous vibrations, but the Tango X’s changed vibration styles more fluidly than other competitors, meaning I'm able to stay in the moment more and enjoy the sensations.

During use, the lipstick shape slips between the labia effortlessly (a nice form of foreplay). Not only that, but I found that the toy rested nicely over my clitoris, meaning I was able to reach a satisfying orgasm quickly.

While the silicone handle did dampen the vibrations around where you’d grip the Tango X, this meant that I was able to keep hold of the toy during play. When testing with a partner, the vibrations and shape of the vibrator stimulated the penis as its hard plastic shell glided effortlessly along the shaft of the penis.

How to keep it maintained and clean

As the We-Vibe Tango X is waterproof, it can be washed in warm water with your standard sex toy cleaner. Once the vibrator, I advise putting it back in the satin We-Vibe bag with the charging cord, so it's harder for you to lose it.

Unsure what you should be cleaning your toys with? Check out our expert guide to the best sex toy cleaners.

About the brand We-Vibe

Originally founded by Bruce Murison in 2003, WeVibe is now part of WOW Tech Media which is linked with Lovehoney. 

Their aim is to produce body-safe and eco-friendly sex toys that are playful and increase sexual satisfaction.

Should I buy it?

Short answer: yes. The We-Vibe Tango X is a must-have bullet vibrator and packs one hell of a punch, considering its size. For over ten years, the We-Vibe Tango has regained as one of the most powerful and quiet bullet vibrators out there. 

The Tango X only continues its legacy.

Heated sex toys are actually pretty new to the market, but after you read my Satisfyer Heated Thrill review, you'll be convinced to *add one to basket*. Why? Well, because I'm a clinical sexologist and I reckon it might just be the perfect sex toy.

Yep, you read that right - not only does it have multiple functions, a heated G-spot shaft, and a handle for rocking yourself toward an amazing orgasm, but can be controlled from your (or your partner's) phone via the app, too.

I reviewed the toy extensively (more on that below) and detail everything you need to know below - but first, a proper introduction so you know to trust my word when it comes to toys.

My name is Ness Cooper and I've tested sex toys professionally for the past ten years. While many other toys have tried to offer the functionality of the Satisfyer Heated Thril, all have failed and ended up being rather dissatisfying. Not this one, though, which I genuinely believe is one of the best sex toys on the market at current. 

Don't miss our edit of the best sex toys, period, while you're here, and do scroll my Satisfyer Heat Wave review, We-Vibe Touch X review, and Satisfyer Pro 2+ review, too. 

Satisfyer Heated Thrill review “It's one of the best toys I've tried for exploring G-spot orgasms.”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

As above, the ability to control from an app is a particular highlight for me - you're investing in an app-compatible sex toy with pre-installed, guided, live control, plus sound and music integration control options. The Heated Thrill has a heated shaft option, too (you might have guessed from the name) which also can be controlled by the app, if you wish.

Don’t fancy controlling the Satisfyer Heated Thrill from the app? You can still use the sex toy manually - simply press the three buttons on the handle to enjoy twelve vibration patterns and intensities.

This sex toy is waterproof and when testing, I found that the heat function and handle both helped to make erotic water adventures easy and enjoyable. 

The shaft's shape is designed to put static pressure upon the g-spot and the handle allows you to rock the g-spot tip back and forth with ease, which I found made G-spot orgasm effortless. 

Not to mention the fact that the handle makes it easier for a partner to control the sex toy when using it with you, too. (Those of you in a long-distance relationship, we're looking at you). In my opinion, it's one of the better app-controlled long-distance sex toys out there, making it one of the best sex toys for couples for sure.

How to use the Satisfyer Heated Thrill Connect App and how it was

When testing, I was really pleasantly surprised - I'd heard the hype but didn't expect it to be this good. Top tip for you: if you want to fully enjoy the heated sensations, press the temperature button a few minutes before play. Once warmed up, you can feel a noticeable difference in how the sex toy feels when it has reached its maximum temperature of 39°C.

I found the toy easy to use and the handle amazing for helping to add motion to my G-spot play. (Essentially, using the handle to rock the sex toy back and forth can help you experience a more intense orgasm). I also discovered that the insertable shaft has a powerful motor, too, which means that you can experience a lot of pleasure even while the Heated Thrill is static and motionless. Simply lie back and enjoy...

It's both natural and comfortable to use - I'm a big fan.

How to keep it maintained and clean

Wash the Satisfyer Heated Thrill in warm water and with your standard sex toy cleaner for the best experience. 

Once clean, make sure it’s fully dry before storing the vibrator separately away from other sex toys to avoid damage to the silicone.

About the brand Satisfyer

Satisfyer launched as a sex toy brand back in 2016 and has gone from strength to strength - it's now stocked in over 100 countries with a product range of over 200 toys. 

Fun fact: they've won more than 180 awards since they started production, and in 2021, they won a CES 2021 Innovation Awards Honoree for their Satisfyer Connect App. Seems I'm not the only one who's a fan...

Should I buy it?

In a word: yes. This is my favourite G-spot sex toy, and if you’re into G-spot-designed shapes, then this one is a must for your collection. 

I love all the extra functions it has and how easy they are to use. Only one problem: I'm now left wishing more sex toys also had a heat function, too..

Ever heard of We-Vibe? If you haven't, you're in for a treat reading my We-Vibe Tango X review. It's one of their most body-friendly sex toy that also promises intensely powerful vibrations. 

Fun fact for you: this particular edition of the toy was designed as a special edition for the brand's 10th-anniversary celebrations. It's pebble-shaped, soft to the touch, and in my opinion after testing, one of the top clitoral vibrators out there, offering intense vibrations in an ergonomic design.

A bit about me, too: my name is Ness Cooper and as a sexologist, I’ve introduced many individuals and couples to sex toys. We-Vibe is always on my recommendation list - so keep reading on to find out why, plus the logic behind why I always recommend the We-Vibe Touch X in my private practice.

Interested in the We-Vibe Touch X? Check my review of the We-Vibe Tango X, it's sister design, while you're here, and don't miss our edits of the best sex toys, best lubes and best condoms, too.

We-Vibe Touch X Review: "One of the most powerful soft touch vibrators out there"

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

So, what did I think when testing the toy? First up, that the We-Vibe Touch X is a super powerful rumbly vibrator that offers the same intensity as the We-Vibe Tango X. 

Unlike the Tango X, the Touch X is designed to be ergonomic - that is, it's designed to be easy to use, reducing grip discomfort and fatigue. I immediately noticed that the soft silicone body offers a concaved flexible tip that glides smoothly over erogenous zones. The dip in the tip of the sex toy is great for hugging the clitoris, and the flexibility of the tip allows you to add in flicking sensations and motions alongside the vibrations if you want. The pebble vibrator's design makes it perfect for you to use during certain penile and vaginal-focused sex positions as it rests over the vulva. 

If you’ve been keen to invest in a soft or flexible pebble clitoral vibrator for a while, you’ve probably checked out the Dame Pom (read my Dame Pom review, here). While the We-Vibe Touch X isn’t as flexible as the Dame Pom, for some, it may be just the right amount of softness and flexibility as it allows you to place more pressure against your body during massage without being completely rigid.

What I liked the most about the We-Vibe Touch X is its rumbly vibrations, as many similar compact vibrators only offer buzzy surface-level vibrations. With this toy, however, the vibrators don't just touch the surface of the clitoris but travel much deeper.

How to use the We-Vibe Touch X and how it was

Opening the toy, the packaging is pretty basic, with the toy nestled in a box complete with a USB cable, instructions, a lubricant sample, and a storage bag. It’s always a nice extra to receive a storage bag with your sex toy as silicone can attract dust when not in use, plus it’s convenient for storing your charging cable so you don’t lose it (read our guide to how to clean your sex toys, here). 

Top tip - do remember to charge your toy for the full two hours before you first use it. It's also worth noting that you need to hold both the plus and minus buttons together for two seconds to deactivate the travel lock pre-using.

When using, I found the tapered tip on the Touch X and dipped underside made it perfect for teasing between the labia and over the clitoris. The flexible tip really added extra depth to foreplay, and the arched tip made the vibrations easier to direct (plus, it felt more powerful than other competitors on the market). 

When using it with a partner, I found resting it between our bodies during missionary position the best. A main selling point for me was that the buttons don’t get knocked easily during intercourse, meaning that you’re less likely to be interrupted by unwanted vibration patterns.

How to keep it maintained and clean

This part was simple - as it's made from silicone, the body of the Touch X can easily be wiped down by a sex toy cleaning wipe. Also, as the We-Vibe Touch X is waterproof, you can wash it with warm water with your standard antibacterial wash. 

Top tip: once it’s dry, place it back into your storage bag with the USB cable ready for next use.

About the brand We-Vibe

We-Vibe is an award-winning brand, scooping prizes for their toys from the likes of the Sexual Health Expo, ETO, and the Venus Awards in Berlin. 

It’s best known for the Tango X Bullet, but the Touch X is a great addition to their offering. 

Should I buy it?

Good question - and something that'll be totally personal to your sexual preferences and personal journey. That said, I’m a fan of the We-Vibe products and believe the Touch X is a worthwhile investment. Why? Well, I like how you can use the tip of the pebble vibrator for different sensations, that the ergonomic shape fits the palm of my hand nicely and also works well between bodies mid-sex, plus that the rumbly vibrations don't desensitize the clitoris like other competitors. 

Trust me, you'll want to keep using this vibrator again and again...

Rewind to summer 2018. I was on the hunt for the best foundation under the sun, and I stumbled across L'Oréal's Infallible Pro Glow Longer Foundation online. Touted as one of the absolute best foundation for combination skin, providing glow while containing excess sheen, my curiosity was piqued (foundation for dry skin requires an entirely different criteria).

It seemed to only be available online, so I took the leap and bought two—one in a shade slightly lighter than my skin, one slightly darker (I often do this when concerned I won't get the precise colour match, then mix to make the precise hue I need). 

It more than delivered, and I barely reached for any other foundation throughout the year, banging on about it to all and sundry, stocking up on the range for my professional make-up kit too.

Since then, Infallible Pro Glow Longer Foundation has become virtually impossible to get your hands on (I'm heartbroken). However, thrilled by the brand's feat, I have since found myself gravitating towards L'Oréal foundations at every opportunity—including the time my foundation was taken away from me at airport security, and the time I ended up stranded in the countryside after my train was cancelled so did a sweep of Boots for make-up. 

I therefore entered into testing the brand's entire range with gusto, excited to see what I might discover. Below are the ones I really want you to know about.

Best for lightweight coverage

L'Oréal Paris Skin Paradise Tinted Moisturiser SPF20

Best for full coverage

L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24hr Matte Cover Foundation 

Best for everyday wear

L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation

Best on-the-go solution

L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation Powder

When I was 15, I was very spotty. Very spotty indeed. And I really wanted to cover those spots, so I spent hours trawling magazines for the best foundation, including Marie Claire, where I eventually found a recommendation for the best foundation for oily skin, which was made by Clinique.

I spent all my pocket money on that first Clinique foundation, and wasn't disappointed; it covered all my spots while treating my skin to a host of ingredients to help it heal. I made the shift to a different Clinique formula a couple of years later, and found it equally as solutions-based, and was impressed by the wear and the skincare included in the formula.

The DNA of the brand hasn't changed, with its foundations designed to plug gaps other brands don't. As a make-up artist, I know all too well that Clinique is a brand that delivers on bases—but that's not to say you can't make a wrong turn. To help you navigate shopping for some of the best foundations out there (on which Clinique certainly delivers), I've just tried and tested the best Clinique foundations on the market.

While testing the Clinique foundation range, I kept my experiences in mind, and looked for the ones which marked Clinique's impressive formulas out—helping you determine which might be the best choice for your personal preferences. As always when it comes to foundation, I tested for longevity, finish, ease of use, and the particular additions which turn me into a devotee of a foundation, like skincare or blurring particles. Here are the Clinique foundations that really stood out.

Best for that your-skin-but-better finish

Generally when I do my make-up, I'll apply a thin layer of foundation, followed by a veil of powder because I love my skin to look healthy, but polished. This gave me that effect in one whammy thanks to the hydrating ingredients which include hyaluronic acid, and the (moderately) skin mattifying finish.

I also liked that it contains skincare ingredients like vitamin C to brighten and salicylic acid to help reduce clogs.

Best for red and sensitive skin

Two friends with rosacea told me that they rely heavily on this base, which helps to neutralise redness and strengthen the skin's barrier function thanks to probiotics.

I tried it after going to a sauna, when my skin was sensitive and red, and found that it really did take down a lot of the pink in my cheeks.

Best for a flawless finish

The thing I liked most about this foundation was that it is so easy to apply it all over my face (using a brush, to control application), and then to dab a little extra where I needed it for a perfect colour-matched concealer. The finish: fairly full, though I sheered it out a bit with a brush over my cheeks.

On the other hand, I was a bit concerned about the doe-foot applicator getting bacteria on it if applied directly to skin and then potentially exacerbating my spots.

Best for sheer coverage

This will be perfect for you if your skin is dry or you face a lot of challenging elements like wind and rain, and you want minimal coverage. I found it worked well on days when my skin wasn't too spotty, and I was pottering around so wanted a veil of coverage but not a full whammy. The downside: it doesn't build in terms of coverage, so you couldn't cover much redness and certainly not big spots with it.

You know the drill by now: the best foundation you can buy won't form a mask on your skin, but rather cover most of what you need covering, and add a unifying veil so that your skin does that 'you, but better' thing. And I've always had a hunch Lancôme foundation offers those things.

Now, I am not foundation's regular customer; as a beauty editor, make-up artist, and sufferer of acne, my needs change regularly. Sometimes when my skin is behaving well, I am all about the best tinted moisturisers. Other times, I am hitting up the best foundation for oily skin for my t-zone and the best foundation for dry skin on my cheeks.

One thing that remains constant: I want my skin to look smooth, healthy, and blemish-free.

Enter Lancôme, which has been on my radar for years as a brand which delivers solidly researched and tested make-up. I've used loads of their products on my face and on clients' for years, and found them very reliable.

I therefore embarked on this trial of all their foundations with clear criteria: I wanted to find the ultimate options for different coverage, needs, and finishes—but while keeping the rule that they need to create the healthy, uniform skin I know Lancôme does so well.

After testing them all meticulously, these are the three Lancôme foundations I fell in love with.

1. Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear SPF15 Foundation

Best all-rounder

2. Lancôme Teint Idôle Ultra Wear Care and Glow

Best for backlit glow

3. Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear All Over Concealer

Best for customisable coverage

As someone who has spent more than two decades daily covering spots as a side effect of having PCOS, finding the best foundation under the sun has been something of an obsession. Add in that I write a lot for publications on beauty, as well as working as a make-up artist, and you can probably understand why I often try new formulas and have lists and lists of the bests: best tinted moisturiser, best foundation for mature skin, best foundation for oily skin, etc. 

That said, No7 hasn't really been on my radar for foundation. Mascara, YES (the Full 360 Mascara is a joy, and I regularly recommend it as a purse-friendly option). Skincare, you bet. But I'd never really got into their foundations.

I have now learned that this was an error of epic proportions - they make loads of options for different finishes and application preferences, and they're hugely affordable, making them a very savvy brand to tap up at any point.

I tested them all as if I were thinking of buying them for day-to-day life, asking myself how easy they were to apply, how long they stuck around for, and how they fared on my skin in general. Here are the ones I think you should know about:

Best for on-the-go

1. No 7 Stay Perfect Stick Foundation

Best for a whisper of coverage

2. No7 Essentially Natural Foundation 

Best long-wear option

3. No7 Stay Perfect Foundation

Best for a matte finish

4. No7 Beautifully Matte Foundation 

Best skincare/make-up hybrid

5. No 7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Serum Foundation

Exfoliating socks are a non-negotiable for me. After months of wearing the best ankle boots, when you want to switch to wearing summer sandals but your feet aren't quite presentable yet, they are the best thing for it. As you'll see below, I put these handy socks to the test a couple of years ago, and I've been using them ever since.

I used to have cracked heels and corns on my toes (see pictures below) that no amount of scrubbing with a pumice stone would get rid of. I know how important it is to exfoliate your feet, but I didn't want to fork out for a weekly pedicure at one of the best nail salons in London. So I turned to Footner exfoliating socks to give myself a pedicure at-home. "No matter whether you use peels, foot scrubs, or exfoliating washes, exfoliation is important," explains Marion Yao, a Podiatric Practitioner at the Harley Street Foot & Nail Clinic. "As it helps remove dry, hard skin. The dryness can cause cracks in the skin and lead to infections, such as fungal infections because these cracks can trap dirt and open up."

Here's everything you need to know about them.

What are exfoliating socks?

They are basically plastic socks containing a special solution that will help break down dead skin over time. This special solution is made up of a mixture of glycolic acid, mandelic acid and lactic acid. You might recognise some of these ingredients from your skincare routine. Each of them is an exfoliating acid that works on nibbling away at dead skin cells.

"Glycolic acid breaks up the outer layers of skin cells, which causes a peeling effect," explains Yao. "It also helps retain moisture within the skin, preventing the skin from drying out. Both of these effects can make the skin smoother and more even. Mandelic acid helps increase cell turnover and promotes the exfoliation of dead skin cells, which leaves the skin smoother and fuller and can also clear up pigmentation. And lactic acid can also be found in the outer layers of the skin and helps loosen its bonds to dead skin cells, which aids exfoliation."

How do exfoliating socks work?

Firstly, you'll need to soak your feet in water, because that helps with the exfoliating process (damp skin means the product will be absorbed better), so if you're binging on Netflix, that's a perfect time to do it. Do that for at least 10 minutes.

After that, pat them dry. Using scissors open the top and slip your feet into the socks. Wear them for an hour, before removing them and rinsing your feet with warm water. Then chuck the socks in the bin.

It's important to know you won't see results straight away, once the product soaks into your skin, you have to wait for the peeling process to start naturally, which can take a few days.

Yao agrees, "The peels take time to remove dryness and calluses. You will not see instant results, and it can take a few days to up to several weeks for the skin to completely peel and for your feet to become softer and less dry. Unfortunately, these peels are not great for deep and thick calluses, as they can only remove the top layers of the skin and do not penetrate to deeper layers. They are excellent at removing superficial skin, but I would leave thicker skin issues for the professionals, like a podiatrist."

How long does it take for the dry skin to peel?

The instructions say it takes five to seven days for the peeling process to start. After five days, I noticed what looked like an air bubble on my sole, and then I started to see the skin detaching itself a bit more every day.

To speed things up, you should soak your feet in water every day and avoid moisturising them.

"As the skin peels off, it may come off in bits and pieces, and this can look and feel unsightly," says Yao. "Using a foot or body scrub can even up the skin and make it look more appealing. It can also help remove the peeling skin and exfoliate it, making the feet even smoother. However, you don’t need to use one, and if you are not too annoyed by dragging dead skin or leaving it on the floor, in your slippers, or in your shoes, you are fine to simply leave it."

For me the whole thing took about 10 days, so bear that in mind if you want to do it before a holiday, as your feet won't look good in the process.

Who can use exfoliating socks?

It doesn't matter how little or how dry your feet are, these will get rid of any dead skin. They're one size fits all; I'm a size three so thought they would be too big, but it wasn't a problem. The skin is delicate after you use the socks though, so sunbathing isn't recommended.

If you're pregnant steer clear, and wait until you've given birth. Also if you suffer from any skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis, give this a miss. Your skin is likely to be too sensitive. Also, it's not recommended if you're diabetic either.

How long do the results last? 

Results of the exfoliating socks may vary a little depending on the brand, but I found my feet looked super smooth for about a month, and it took a little longer than that for hard skin to come back (it will take longer if you wear socks as the skin will be protected).

Most brands tell you to avoid using them for three weeks after the last use as skin will be sensitive due to the alcohol content in the formula, and generally speaking they recommend you repeating the process every two to three months.

I've only just done this, so obviously my feet are still looking great, but the instructions seem to advise to do this every two to three months, depending on how quickly your feet get dry again. And you need to leave it at least three weeks between treatments because your skin will still be sensitive.

Best exfoliating socks

Best award-winning exfoliating socks

Best AHA exfoliating socks

Best dual-action exfoliating socks

Best affordable exfoliating socks

Are exfoliating socks safe?

I spoke to Dina Gohil, from DG Podiatrist, about what she thinks of the at-home foot softening treatment. "Exfoliating socks are a great home treatment that's easy to enjoy and people with callus do see results. They are on the whole safe to use however if you are diabetic, pregnant, have sensitive skin, or have any other medical conditions it would be advised to check with your Podiatrist or GP first."

How can you avoid getting dry hard feet and calluses going forward?

Whilst the exfoliating socks are extremely satisfying, it would be much easier if we didn't have hard feet to begin with. So we asked Gohil what we can do to keep our feet smooth.

• A good foot cream, with urea in it, will really penetrate into your epidermis which will help bring flexibility and hydration to your skin and reduce hard skin and build-up
• Check that your shoes are the right fit for you, as this can actually be a key reason why you are getting hard skin in the first place
• Dry your feet thoroughly after a shower or bath - water can diminish the natural oils on your skin causing them to dry out faster
• Make sure to keep hydrated - water is such a game-changer
• Wear the right type of socks to help balance the temperature of your feet, the happier they are the less moisture is lost

Feet exfoliating products

If you're still unsure about the foot exfoliating socks, then here are a few more products I rate for dry, cracked feet, from foot scrubs to leave-in masks.

You'll likely have heard of Satisfyer, a brand known for their suction vibrators like the Pro 2+. That said, that's not all they make - they also sell a range of heated sex toys - which is where my Satisfyer Heat Wave review comes in.

Like the sound of a rabbit vibrator that not only heats up to 39 degrees but has multiple functions? Then you'll like this toy - it's a very fun and functional option. 

Never tried a heated sex toy? They're totally safe and can also be amazing to use if you have pelvic pain or tightness issues (the heat can make solo sex more pleasurable). 

On the hunt for one of the best sex toys to add to your treasure trove? You're in the right place. I'm Ness Cooper, a clinical sexologist who's all for sex toys that make things more enjoyable. Keep reading on to find out how the Satisfyer Heat Wave does just that.

Don't forget to check out some of my last reviews such as the LELO Enigma review, Smile Makers Billionaire, and the Ruby Glow Blush's review, while you're here. 

Satisfyer Heat Wave review “I thought I’d be overwhelmed by the options, but I was very satisfied”

Special features - what sets it apart from competitors?

The Satisfyer vibrator has a whole range of options that make it pretty unique (plus, with twelve vibration settings, even if you just used it as a regular old vibrator, it'd be worth a go). 

On the app, you can try Program Play - where you program your own vibration settings to suit your pleasure - Live Control - a unique vibration pattern created by gliding your finger up and down the touch screen of your phone - and even Ambient Sound - a vibration setting which reacts to sounds around. It could be the sounds of a lover moaning during sex or even the sounds of music in the room. With ambient sounds it’s all about what’s going on around you and how this can turn you on further.

It also offers Remote Play, which allows your partner to connect to the sex toy and control its various vibrations intensities and patterns. Whether you’re in a long-distance relationship or just want to add an element of surprise into your bedroom explorations, it can be exhilarating to let go of control.

Plus, the fun part - the Heat Wave setting on the app means the vibrator can heat up to 39 degrees. When I tested, I found this a cosy temperature for insertion. Simply start the heat function by using the "on" button or the app - it only takes five minutes for the shaft to get nice and warm.

How to use the Satisfyer Heat Wave and how it was

From the moment I opened the box, I was already excited to try the Satisfyer Heat Wave toy and app.

Once I had charged the sex toy fully, the first thing I tested was how hot the sex toy could get. I sat eagerly on my bed and waited for five or so minutes after pressing the temperature button. The result? The toy was warm to the touch, but not so hot I couldn't use it on my bare skin.

Sticking with basics, I began by exploring the vibrations settings. After some lubrication and foreplay, the combination of intense rumbly vibrations against both my G-spot and clitoris worked a treat. 

When testing, I found that the Satisfyer Heat Wave toy heats the right spots perfectly. I also found that the warmth meant the insertion was more enjoyable than using room-temperature silicone sex toys.

I’ve explored all the Satisfyer Connect app options and found that depending on my mood they can all work equally well. They stay connected to the sex toy, unlike some other app-controlled sex toys which have glitches and disconnect part-way through play. The vibrations also sync up better than some other app-controlled devices which can sometimes have a lag effect. It's a well-designed app-controlled sex toy and affordable, too.

How to keep it maintained and clean

As the Satisfyer Heat Wave toy is waterproof, it’s fairly easy to clean. The silicone can be washed with your standard antibacterial sex toy cleaner and water. Once it is dry, it’s recommended that you store it away from other sex toys - purchasing a storage bag may help extend the life of your Satisfyer product.

Don't miss our guides to how to clean your sex toys and the best sex toy cleaners, while you're here.

About Satisfyer the brand

Satisfyer is a globally known sex toy brand for a reason - its ethos is inclusivity and they produce hundreds of sex toys in a wide range of designs, colours, and styles.

Their app also focuses on making sex toys more accessible in a wide range of imaginative ways.

At Marie Claire UK, we're all about inclusive and accessible sex for all.

Should I buy it?

My honest Satisfyer Heat Wave review? It's a real all-rounder. It's one of the most functional and fun sex toys out there due to its amazing app function - there really is a whole roster of possibilities available on the Satisfyer Connect app.

I thoroughly enjoyed the heated element paired with strong but not overpowering vibrations for both internal and external pleasure. 

I highly recommend it for either solo or coupled sex.

If you're on the hunt for one of the best sex toys and are struggling to choose between one of the best bullet vibrators or a clitoral suction sex toy, we've got news for you.

You don't have to - not with the Satisfyer Pro 2+, a clitoral suction vibrator from the best-selling sex toy brand that allows you the option to explore suction, vibrations, or - yep - both.

Why am I best placed to review this toy? A bit about me: I’m Ness Cooper a clinical sexologist who specialises in sex toy testing. I’ve tested some pretty powerful sex toys over the years, with many of them being mains powered (read my Lovehoney Magic Wand review, here).

Fun fact for you: this is the first suction sex toy that I needed to tap out and put on a lower setting as the stronger intensities are so powerful. Combining air pulse technology and vibration, it was almost too powerful for me (emphasis on almost).

Other toys I've loved and written about for MC UK? Don't miss my Womanizer Pro40 review, Lovehoney Rose Review, and LELO Sila Sonic review, while you're here.

Satisfyer Pro 2+ review “My honest thoughts testing one of the most powerful suction sex toys out there”

Special features - what sets it apart from competitors?

As above, the fact it's an all-in-one air pulse clitoral stimulating toy and further, a vibrator, too - a first of its kind. 

Plus, Satisfyer as a brand receives rave reviews from customers, setting it apart from other competitors. 

The vibration function can be switched on by a single button and allows you to move through ten different vibration patterns and intensities. I learnt that to turn off the vibrating function, you simply have to press and hold the button for a few seconds.

Keep in mind that the vibration setting alone won’t form a suction against your body, which is where the air pulse mode comes in, adding an oral sex-like stimulation.

The air pulse mode that allows for suction can be controlled by two buttons which are joined together, allowing you to move up and down the different suction strengths.

How to use the Satisfyer Pro 2+ and how it was

After opening the packaging (which has actually won several awards), I grabbed the Pro 2+ and its USB charger out of the box and started charging it. You're told in the product leaflet that their toys work best after a few hours of charge (otherwise, they may not last for the entirety of your solo sex session, and no one wants that). 

Making sure the clitoral nozzle was well lubricated (read our guide to the best lubes, here), I explored the vibrations one by one. I could feel the vibrations begin to travel through the nozzles' chamber - this stimulated my clitoris nicely. However, I did find the vibrations rather weak and loud just by themselves and decided to add in the suction mode to continue my solo sex-ploration.

Using the Satisfyer Pro 2+ with the suction mode on, the higher setting was very intense - sometimes a little too much for me. That said, this is one of the strongest and most intense suction vibrators out there, so I wasn't surprised. If you enjoy intense clitoral stimulation, it’d be perfect. 

The clitoral nozzle is fairly accommodating but it'd be even better if it was made from a softer silicone for comfort.

Bottom line? I enjoyed the toy and found that adding the vibrations alongside the suction helped me to experience a better build-up towards orgasm. Plus, I enjoyed a more intense climax when I did orgasm. I liked that the orgasm doesn't feel like it sneaks up on you as suddenly (I've found this happens fairly regularly with other suction sex toys). 

How to keep it maintained and clean

Pop the clitoral nozzle off the Satisfyer Pro 2 + and wash it separately to the main body of the sex toy. The Pro 2+ is waterproof, so all parts of the sex toy can be washed in warm water with your standard sex toy cleaner.

Still not sure? Our guides on how to clean your sex toys and the best sex toy cleaners are a good start.

About the Satisfyer brand

Satisfyer is one of the more affordable luxury sex toy brands out there, with several of their toys, including this one, receiving cult reviews.

They have hundreds of different sex toys on sale and won a Red Dot Design award in 2020 for their inclusive packaging.

Should I buy it?

If you’ve found that you need something more intense in your collection, then the Satisfyer Pro 2+ has you covered. 

Price-wise, it’s also one of the more affordable suction sex toys, making the oral sex experience more accessible.

My advice? Just don't go from zero to max on your first go, as you may be in for quite a powerful surprise.

Here's the reason Hannah Martin has amassed a loyal army of admirers (including royals) for her make-up skills: she does the sort of make-up everyone wants to wear. Think softer than soft-edged smokey eyes, bold lipstick with shimmery lids, and you-but-much-better skin. 

After being asked repeatedly about which brushes worked best for what, she decided to team up with Ciate London to launch her own range of make-up brushes - and then are seriously comprehensive. 

Hannah's goal was to create something which would easily decode brushwork to those who didn't feel quite so confident applying their make-up, and simultaneously thrill make-up aficionados and artists.

As the latter (I'm a make-up artist myself when I'm not writing up the latest beauty news), I can confidently say Hannah has hit her target. The brushes cover all bases (pun intended), and also show the meticulous eye for detail which can only come as the result of hours and hours of doing make-up.

Here's everything you should know about the range:

• There are 24 brushes in total, and Hannah's put a suggested use for each on the handle - but told me that you can absolutely use them however you see fit.
• They're all vegan-friendly, and designed to mimic the performance of real hair without harming animals.
• The handles are sustaibaly-sourced wood - and are lightweight to hold, making them so easy to use.
• The vegan leather case is perfect to transport and store brushes in - and if you like me clean yours all the time, just use the lid for dirty ones so you know what you need to wash.

My five favourite brushes from the range:

Powder Detail

I always wear powder - but like to be selective about how much I apply, and where I put it. This gives all the control you need to really push powder into the bits of your face where you need it (like around the nose) with ease. 

Blush

This brush can be used with either a powder or creams and I adore that it's not too big - so many blush brushes are too large, meaning you apply too much. 

Cream Blender

Perfect for concealer or cream shadows, this effortlessly blends edges so you won't end up with any streaks in the finish.

Eye Detailer

Use this when you want a little shadow line/smoke around your eyes but need a bit of softness to the finish. Best used washing back and forth softly to really blend the powder. 

Spoolie

I love that Hannah has made a stand alone spoolie, which you can use to brush brows in place, move brows into place once you've applied something to set them, or even to apply or thin out mascara with once on. 

Buy the Hannah Martin x Ciaté London 24-Piece Professional Brush Collection:

As a Health Editor, I'd say the product I get emailed about the most is supplements. From collagen supplements, to protein powders, to probiotic gut health boosters, there's a whole world of options out there, with 2,770,000,000 results on Google alone.

What supplements you'll go for will largely depend on your lifestyle, deficiencies, and personal preference. I'm a marathon runner with PCOS, for example, who takes magnesium for DOMs, a probiotic, and Vitamin D daily.

I've also tried various raved-about skin supps in the past to combat occasional bloating and the cystic spots that often come with hormonal imbalances, but have never found anything that works for me. Any I've tried in the past have fallen a bit... flat, and despite trying many for the recommended twelve weeks before judging, I've never noticed a difference in my skin.

That's until I discovered the J.S. Health supplements earlier this summer. I'd heard lots about the brand and was intrigued, as they have a cult following and thousands of five-star customer reviews. Fun fact: one J.S. Health product sells every 27 seconds, giving you an idea of just how popular they are. Plus, stars like  Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Alba, and Romee Strijd are all rumoured to be fans.

Founded by qualified nutritionist Jessica Spiel in 2018, she developed the range of skin, hair, and mood-boosting supplements over the course of three years alongside a team of scientists, GPs, and experts. They promise to combine "the transformational power of nutrients with powerful ingredients backed by science" - which, of course, I was keen to test.

They've got a whole load of supplements on offer, from de-bloating to libido-boosting formulas and tablets targeting skin and hair health - plus, they're currently offering their biggest discount ever (25% off sitewide until 10am on 28th November) for Black Friday.

I've always been a little sceptical of tablets that promise the world. Nothing can replace daily movement, good hydration, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition, but their Detox and Debloat, Skin and Digestion, and Hair and Energy formulas have become a staple in my daily routine. 

Here's why. 

J.S. Health supplements are the only thing I'm buying this Black Friday - here's why

Best for skin health

Best for debloating

Best for hair health

Other J.S. Health products currently on offer: 

Black Friday quick links:

• The Our Place Black Friday sale is offering £40 lots of products RN
• These are the best weighted blankets on sale for Black Friday
• Which Hydrow Black Friday deal is best, plus which to buy
• Save big on sex toys this Black Friday

Before we get into this review of the entire YSL foundation offering, I'd like highlight that I'm not a big foundation wearer. You see, as a beauty editor of over eight years, I've tested a fair few foundations in my time. In fact, I test and trial different formulas day in, day out in a bid to find the very best foundations out there. And I think it's probably because of this that, when it comes to my day-to-day life, I like to leave my skin bare or instead opt for a tinted moisturiser.

Me telling you this doesn't mean I don't know my stuff, mind you. Instead, it's my way of demonstrating just how picky I am when it comes to foundation. For a foundation to become a mainstay in my make-up routine, it's got to be good. 

My criteria for finding the perfect foundation is simple—it should both look and feel skin-like, be quick and easy to put on (I'm truly rubbish at knowing how to apply foundation) and require zero touching up throughout the day. Is that really so much to ask?!

And while I'm no doubt fussy when it comes to my foundation choices, I also know that there are some brands I can rely on to deliver stellar formulas—not just for my tastes, but for everyone's. Because while I prefer my coverage to be light and natural-looking, I know that others prefer something heavier and matte. And this is why YSL really stands out to me as one of the best make-up brands for foundation.

The brand offers a concise edit of three formulas: Touche Éclat Le Teint, All Hours and Nu Bare Look Tint. Each formula promises a totally different finish. While All Hours is matte, long-lasting and full-coverage, Touche Éclat Le Teint is glowier and fresher, while Nu Bare Look Tint aims to deliver a skincare-infused veil of coverage.

As a beauty editor, I can tell you it's no secret that YSL's foundations are good. Some of the most successful make-up artists and editors I know consider a YSL formula to be their favourite. But as someone that very much stays in her foundation lane, I've never given them a truly critical review, and with my skin very much throwing its toys out of the pram with the change of seasons, I figured now's a good time to see if there's a formula in the line-up for me.

In a bid to find myself a new foundation for winter (and to see if YSL's foundations really live up to their hype), I tested all three formulas out for myself. I've taken coverage, finish, price, packaging and shade offering into account to create definitive reviews for each, so you know exactly what you're buying. Here's my verdicts...

YSL Touche Éclat Le Teint Foundation SPF22

Best for a natural-looking finish

YSL Nu Bare Look Tint

Best for a barely-there finish

YSL All Hours Foundation

Best for a full-coverage finish

So, you're on the hunt for a vibrator upgrade? Then you'll want to read my Smile Makers The Billionaire review.

Why? Well, simply put, because I think it's one of the best sex toys. While it's classic in design, it's also almost silent and offers some pretty intense vibrations (but more on that later).

It's made by a brand called Smile Makers who are as passionate about promoting sexual wellness as the Marie Claire UK team. Before we dive in - a bit about me. I'm Ness Cooper and I'm a professional sex toy reviewer, with a background in clinical sexology.

Not sure whether to go for one of the best bullet vibrators, best rabbit vibrators, or best wand vibrators, like the toy in this review? Then our explainers on what each toy is (plus which ones are currently best to buy) will help. 

If you don’t have a classic in your collection yet, keep reading to discover why this seemingly basic sex toy should be a staple in your bedside drawer. Don't miss my Womanizer x Lovehoney Pro40 review, Rose sex toy review, and Lovehoney magic wand review, while you're here.

Smile Makers The Billionaire review: “A new take on a vibrator that elevates the simple toy”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

When first unboxing the Smile Makers toy, I immediately noticed that it has a high-end and luxurious feel to it. Reading the information booklet, I also notice that the brand has gone above and beyond to ensure the quality of its battery-powered sex toys.

Why is this noteworthy? Well, normally when a sex toy is battery-powered, the motors can be weaker and rattle and you can quickly question its quality - but Smile Maker has made sure that The Billionaire is a luxury and high-end silicone sex toy. How? Well, the vibrations are both powerful and silent, unlike many other noisy motors on the market, plus The Billionaire's batteries can last up to four hours, which is pretty impressive.

How to use the The Billionaire and how it was

As soon as I pressed the emoji patterned button (yep: love) on The Billionaire’s base, I was impressed by how powerful yet quiet the vibrator was. I liked that the toy was made from silicone as it glided over my body well.

Exploring the vibrations over various erogenous zones, I noticed that there is a little bit of give in the classic vibrator shaft. This means you can apply more pressure to your sweet spots than with more run-of-the-mill vibrators.

While this wasn't the best toy for quick orgasms, it was still super enjoyable (news flash: sexual wellness is about far more than the big O). The Billionaire’s shape isn’t designed for hititng your G-spot, however, it’s still a great toy for helping you to relax and feel pleasure in alternative ways. Like the sound of intense (and quiet) vibrations coursing through its shaft? Then you'll like the toy.

Plus, do note: classic vibrators allow a wider range of people to explore sex toys without discomfort as the shape is more universal for various vaginas shapes, tilts, and sizes.

Not to mention the fact that classic-shaped vibrators like The Billionaire are great for letting a partner take control. This is because they don’t have any uncomfortable angles (this can often put people off investing in the best sex toys for couples). Plus, the Smile Makers single-press button also makes it easy to understand, meaning you don’t need a sexology degree to use it.

How to keep it maintained and clean

The Billionaire’s shape makes it easy to clean. Simply use some water with a standard antibacterial wash. Read up on how to clean your sex toys, here.

Also note that battery-powered sex toys are best stored without the battery for a handful of reasons. Another top tip: remember to have spare batteries ready for when you need to replace them.

About the brand

Keen to ensure women experience the best sex life possible, not only is Smile Makers an award-winning sex toy company, but they're aiming to make sex-positive education accessible to everyone, online and offline. I'm a fan.

Should I buy it?

The Billionaire is great for those who are new to sex toys or want to introduce a sex toy to a partner.

Its superior quality makes it stand out from other classic vibrators. Even though it requires batteries, trust me on this one: it’s still worth the investment.

Google the best sex toys and you'll be hit with hundreds of thousands of different options. From sex toys for couples, to vibrators and clitoral suction toys more designed specifically for solo fun. The Poet sex toy from Smile Makers is one of the latter. 

We're all for sexual well-being as a form of self-care here at Marie Claire UK, which is why I, Ness Cooper, review sex toys for the magazine each month. While I was training to be a sexologist, one of my modules was on oral sex, spanning everything from its history, to how to perform the best oral sex on someone.

Now, seeing I love seeing oral sex suction toys, such as The Poet, come into the mainstream. Not only does it make oral sex accessible for all, but it serves as a reminder of how far we've come.

Keen to learn more? So was I. Keep scrolling for my Smile Makers The Poet review (spoiler alert: yes, air pulse technology is great), and don't miss my LELO Sona 2 review, LELO Sila sonic massager review, and Rose sex toy review, while you're at it.

Smile Makers The Poet review: “After a clitorally-inclusive toy? The Poet is one of the best"

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

The Poet is an air pulse technology suction sex toy that has three different-sized attachments - which is great, as it immediately makes the toy clitorally inclusive. Along with the different attachments, it also has multiple ways for you to control the intensity of the pulsations.

Fun fact, and a standout feature that makes the toy unique: one of those ways is via squeeze sensory technology, as above, and The Poet was actually the first ever suction-style sex toy that enabled you to control vibrations via squeeze alone. I like it - you'll likely know the feeling of craving more intensity as you get closer to orgasm, and this makes it easy to achieve.

How to use The Poet and how it was

I liked that The Poet arrived in an elegant round box - the packaging really is a cut above other rival brands and I can see why they've won awards for it. Its attachments are placed neatly inside, along with a changing cable and satin storage bag.

The toy helped me to reach orgasm very quickly thanks to the squeeze technology ago. I found it easy to use. and squeezing the sensors quickly made the stimulation more powerful. One thing to note, though: at one point, I accidentally loosened my grip, meaning the intensity lessened. This killed the vibe a little bit, but it wasn't long before I got it back.

How to keep it maintained and clean

One to note: this particular sex toy can get very messy as it requires a lot of water-based lubes (read our guide to the best lubes, here).

It's also worth knowing that when cleaning The Poet, you need to remove the attachment you used and clean all parts in warm water and a sex toy cleaner. Also, remember to allow everything to dry before storing it in the provided pouch.

About the brand Smile Makers

Smile Makers have been a trusted sex toy brand since it launched in 2013. Their main aim is to create products that sexually empower women and destigmatise self-pleasure.

Many of their sex toys can be found in health and beauty shops around the world, including Boots, Lookfantastic and more.

Should I buy it?

My final thoughts for this Smile Makers The Poet review? If you’ve been looking for a clitorally inclusive sex toy, the attachments make The Poet one of the best. The range of attachments means it has a higher chance of suiting your clitoris (and a higher chance of feeling good for you), plus I also really enjoyed how I could mix it up by simply changing the nozzle.

Its air pulse technology is also great, as it makes changing the intensity super easy. *Adds to basket*

Discovering the best sex toys can be a mission and a half. Do you go for a vibrator? A dildo? Or one of the best sex toys for couples? Truth is, what works for you will be different for, say, your best mate, so it's important to discover what toys turn you on.

A bit about me - I’m Ness Cooper, a sexologist with a special interest in sex tech. You’re probably thinking, “Why on earth would she want to try a battery-powered sex toy?”. Short answer: as a sex toy reviewer, I see the value in going back to basics (plus believe battery-powered devices can still be great).

Ready to read my Smile Makers The Firefighter review? Keep scrolling - and don't miss my Dame Pom review, Lovehoney Love Egg review, and LELO Enigma review, while you're here.

Smile Makers The Firefighter review: “The tip of the flame leads to a super quick orgasm”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

When you think of clitoral vibrators, you probably picture smaller, bullet-size toys. Not The Firefighter. It's a larger than most alternatives and has a bigger surface area to play with, too.

The instruction leaflet recommends focusing the broad bump of the toy on your clitoris and allowing the flame-shaped silicone fan over your labia as the sex toy vibrates. The aim? To stimulate and arouse your entire genital area, unlike other toys that target one specific spot.

How to use The Firefighter and how it was

So, what did I first notice when testing for this Smile Makers The Firefighter review? It was simple to use, great for testing out different sex positions, and made me orgasm fairly quickly. I enjoyed using The Firefighter, and the thin flame edges were different to anything I'd tried before. I particularly liked that the vibrations feel different in different parts of the flame, as it means when you direct particular parts onto your body, you can enjoy a variety of intensities.

For me, the tip of the flame leads to a quicker clitoral orgasm.

The biggest standout for me, as above, was the flame-shaped tip. Any toy that allows you to mix up sensations like this gets a yes from me.

Cons - it was a little noisier than other Smile Makers sex toys, but no so much so that it put me off. Plus, do make sure you've got a battery to hand as it doesn't come with one.

How to keep it maintained and clean

The seamless and waterproof design makes it super easy to clean.

Simply use your standard antibacterial wash and water and allow it to dry. If you want to learn more about how to clean your sex toys, check out our expert-led explainer.

About the brand Smile Makers

Smile Makers is an award-winning sex toy company that has scooped trophies for everything from their packaging to their vibrators. They're passionate about promoting both sexual wellness and education, too.

Should I buy it?

My final thoughts? The Firefighter is a great sex toy for external stimulation. Its shape is particularly good if you want to explore either pinpoint or more broad massage. And, enjoy...

Have you heard of it?

How many fad diets, quick-fix gym classes and cure-all supplements have you heard of that promise to boost your fitness, metabolism, and more? Answer: probably a lot, but thankfully, in 2022, we know to be sceptical about panaceas - health is about building a body for life and a routine that you love and enjoy, after all.

That's where EMS training comes in - a brand new fitness trend and style of training liked by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Tom Holland. The catch? It's a super short session - just 20 minutes - that promises to deliver the same results you'd see in a regular 90-minute gym session. How? Well, you wear a specially engineered EMS suit that subtly electric shocks your body while you exercise.

Sure, it sounds a little extreme - but when I was in a freak accident earlier this year and was recommended EMS training as a form of physiotherapy, I was keen to give it a go.

Keep scrolling for my honest review - and why I think that, while it's been given a bad rep, it's definitely worth considering.

EMS Training: "I tried the new fitness trend after a freak accident - it boosted my physical and mental health." 

What is EMS?

First things first: what actually is EMS training? EMS stands for Electrical Muscle Stimulation and combined with a workout, it's a method of circuit training that uses electrical impulses to shock your body. These pulses are designed to contract the skeletal striated muscles with targeted precision and can be used for everything from fat loss to boosting fitness levels.

It's a low-impact workout that focuses on weight training, but also allows you to experience a level of high-intensity thanks to the technology.

As above, celebrities and athletes that have been known to use EMS training include Tom Holland and Cristiano Ronaldo, so it's always been something that fascinated me. That said, I never thought to try it until it was recommended as a form of physiotherapy after a recent accident.

A few months ago, a freak accident left the right side of my body temporarily paralyzed from the waist up. I couldn't even type without the words looking like ancient Latin script (a journalist that couldn't type? Ironic).

Doctors told me that my core muscles had been compromised and weren't sending the right signals to my limbs. I had to re-teach my muscles the basic form of a grip, and when doing so, my doctor mentioned that EMS had been used by physiotherapists for years to help with similar cases.

So I headed to Kensington-based E-Pulsive to try their private EMS training session to help get my body back to its healthier form while also gaining a better understanding of the science behind it.

What does an EMS session look like?

Good question. First things first, you get put into the EMS suit featuring wireless electrodes. These are activated by cold water sprays (prepare to look like of Lara Croft). Your trainer will then start with warm up exercises - the electric pulses at this point are set on a low level.

I worked with E-Pulsive personal trainer Nathalia Naseri who created a bespoke routine for me to improve my weakened muscles. "We worked to focus on improving the cardio system," she explains. "This strengthened Humaa's muscles, ultimately bringing back lost agility. EMS training is all about helping to manage and improve everything inside your body, versus focusing on how it looks on the outside."

So, how often did I train? I did two EMS sessions a week for two months, working both the upper and lower body so as to not put too much strain on my injured top half. Surprisingly, I noticed my grip getting stronger after only four sessions. I'd repeatedly dropped the small grip strengthener balls the first few times I held them, so it was really motivating to see such quick progress.

As my sessions went on, I realised that the workout is about so much more than just building your physical strength - it was boosting my mental strength, too. Showcasing this was one of the reasons why E-Pulsive co-founders Eladio De Leon and Mario Kaspers wanted to bring the German technique to London.

So, what were my final thoughts on EMS Training? 

As someone who has always been very active and worked out four times a week, not being able to do much after my accident really lowered my self-esteem. But heading to E-Pulsive and trying their EMS training didn't feel like heading to a strenuous physiotherapy appointment - quite the opposite, and I genuinely really enjoyed it.

While it won't be for everyone and can be effective if you have one-to-one sessions, if you've been in an accident like me, it's the most fun physiotherapy I've ever tried. Similarly, if you're a busy CEO who has limited hours in the day, it's a great way to squeeze in a short-yet-effective session (plus you don't have to do loads to see your strength improving).

It often gets a bad rep as it's seen as a quick-fix weight loss tool. While it can be used for that, for me, it was so much more than that - it helped me get my strength and confidence back.

After the two months were up, not only had it aided my muscle rehabilitation but really boosted my self-esteem, too. The trainers made it so fun, and I enjoyed working with Nathalia so much that I looked forward to every class. I knew that they'd make me feel physically strong, but mentally strong, too.

E-pulsive offers a range of price options, starting at £20 per session. For more info and details on how to book at their South Kensington location or their new studio collaboration with Studio Society in West Hampstead, head to the E-Pulsive website.

Visit once and you'll be booking your return when checking out

Why go?

Goodness me, why wouldn't you go? This idyllic spot on the south coast of Cornwall is pure heaven. Set on the harbour wall in St Mawes (which incidentally has been voted the UK's best seaside town) this beautiful boutique hotel is the perfect place to get away for the weekend.

Renovated in 2013 by Karen and David Richards, who took it from an outdated hotel that primarily catered to elderly travellers into a luxury bolthole. This was recognised in 2016 when The Idle Rocks became part of the world-renowned collection of hotels, Relais & Châteaux.

My husband and I spent a couple of days at the hotel to celebrate a birthday, an anniversary and the impending arrival of our second child. It was exactly what we needed - a spoiling, peaceful break that was just for us. Think newspapers in bed with the sun streaming through the windows, creams teas at 4pm with a side of champagne and delicious meals that go on into the late evening.

The vibe:

The hotel itself is an instant soother. Perhaps it's the sea air, the sound of the water or maybe it's the crisp rosé that sits invitingly in large bowls of ice at the bar? These are certainly contributing factors, but believe it or not, it's the actual hotel that puts you at instant ease.

This is precisely what Karen and David, who holidayed down in St Mawes long before becoming hotel owners, wanted - to create a home-away-from-home feel. When you walk into the reception to check in, you're invited to take a seat in the comfortable lounge or on the sprawling terrace that overlooks the Fal Estuary and offered a drink immediately. Which is what all hotels should be like - drinks on arrival.

Saying that it has been tastefully furnished is an understatement. Rich textiles, brightly colour artwork and personal touches, like family photos, make it a joyous place to be. Each corner and corridor has been well thought out. For example, the walls in the hallways are rather cleverly lined with blue and white ticking fabric, giving it a warm and rustic feel.

There are cosy reading nooks in the lounge that make it near on impossible to put down your book. We liked the sumptuous sofa in front of the fireplace and the window seats that look out onto the harbour.

Scent is clearly very important to the owners because there are St Eval, a local Cornish brand, Sea Salt candles lit everywhere and you smell it as soon as you walk in.

The rooms:

There are 18 rooms in total and each one is decorated ever so differently. But it doesn't matter which you book - from the Grand Seaview Rooms to the Village Hideaways - you are going to walk in and reconsider your own interior choices immediately. Owner Karen, who took on the project of redeveloping the hotel having walked past it for years, is a self-confessed interior obsessive and took great joy in styling every room.

There are of course nautical nods with the decor, but it's worlds way away from clichéd anchors and model seagulls. Here it's giant conch shell lamps, mother of pearl accents and blue and white ceramics. This is seaside chic at its finest.

We were fortunate enough to stay in one of the Grand Seaview Rooms, which was flooded with light thanks to the dual-aspect windows looking straight out onto the water. We went to sleep and woke up listening to the soothing sounds of the water lapping against the rocks below.

Much like the rest of the hotel, the rooms feel incredibly luxurious, yet highly unpretentious.

The food

The restaurant at Idle Rocks is why people visit the hotel. From mid-morning, until late evening the terrace and restaurant are filled with hotel guests, as well as those who have made the journey just to try head chef and local lad Dorian Janmaat's creations. There are those that come by car, and then those that come from neighbouring coastal towns who tie their boats up to the town's pontoon just to drop in for lunch.

As you would expect the menu is heavily influenced by the hotel's location. Fresh fish and shellfish are delivered every morning and served that day. In the evening, you can choose from the à la carte menu or go big and opt for the tasting.

I know I should wax lyrical about each course we tried, and whilst every bite was followed by wide eyes of disbelief and murmurs of pleasure, I really must take a moment to talk about the butter. The butter we were served with our bread was laced with miso and was hands down one of the best things I've ever eaten. The flavours and combinations were remarkable. It didn't take us long to realise why people make the journey.

The spa:

You would think that in a boutique hotel with only 18 rooms, there wouldn't be space for a spa. However, Karen's desire to create a fully-rounded relaxing escape meant that they made space for one. The single-roomed Knot Reef Retreat is tucked away in a quiet and calm corner of the hotel and with the help of Aromatherapy Associates products the treatment menu features everything from targeted massage to facials.

The area

St Mawes is not your typical Cornish seaside village - yes there are boat trips and fish and chips aplenty - but this is a spot where the wealthy sailing crowd come to play. It's reflected by the number of yachts moored up in front of the hotel, the rather smart boutiques on the water's front and the houses that line the local streets.

There's plenty to do and it's all accessible by foot. So hand your keys to reception, let them park your car and then forget about it all weekend.

The coastal path will keep you busy for much of the day - you can even walk all the way around to the not-so-hidden Hidden Hut in Porthcurnick. If you're a keen walker, be sure to make the trip to St Just in Roseland, a village just north of St Mawes with arguably the most beautiful churchyard you'll ever visit. Think botanical gardens set on the side of a river. Utterly stunning.

You can spend the day on the water, either on paddleboards, swimming or perhaps on the hotel's yacht, which you can book a day on with the help of a local who will take you out for a day of sailing.

You can go a bit further afield too thanks to the passenger ferries that will take you to other points on the Roseland Peninsula, including over to Falmouth.

There's a castle previously owned by Henry VIII at the top of the village, which considering its location on the cliffside at open to the elements is in incredible knick.

Good to know

Owners Karen and David bought and renovated The St Mawes Hotel in 2015, which offers a more affordable option to visitors - with its menu and rooms. It has more of a relaxed pub feel, where dogs are welcome and there's even an in-house cinema.

Just to the right of the hotel, there's a lovely beach with a floating pontoon, which made for a lovely early morning wakeup and sunset swim.

Much like the rest of Cornwall, the hotel is not immune to the threat of seagull attack. But the hotel has taken a rather fun approach to dealing with them. Next to each table on the terrace is a water pistol, so that you can ensure that your cream teas remain on your plate.

There's a kid's playroom on the first floor, which is just as smartly decorated as the rest of the house. Which will keep the young'uns entertained whilst you have a coffee downstairs.

To book visit idlerocks.com or call 01326 270270. (Rooms start from £260 per night based on two adults.)

A mask that gives you a head massage pre-sleep? Yep, we're sold...

Anyone who knows me will know that I'm pretty obsessed with my sleep. I'm a solid eight hours a night kinda gal, swear by my sunrise alarm clock, and whether it's aromatherapy oils, sleep meditation, or beauty sleep products, if it promises to boost my shut-eye, I've likely tried it.

As a Health Editor who runs marathons for fun (next stop: Chicago in three weeks - eek), I know just how important sleep is for muscle recovery, energy levels, and overall stress management. Yep, I'm pretty hot on it (and never without my lavender sleep spray).

So you can imagine my excitement when I heard that massage gun gods Therabody were launching a mysterious new sleep product that promised to relieve most sleep ailments. After launching their Theraface facial massager earlier this year, they've moved into the world of sleep, calling the mask a "revolutionary, first-of-its-kind facial device."

Keep scrolling for my honest Therabody SmartGoggles review (plus whether they're actually worth your £££).

Therabody SmartGoggles review: "They're intriguing, no doubt about it"

First up: a bit of background for you. You'll know the brand as one of the leading massage gun designers, launched by chiropractor Dr Jason Wersland in 2016. They've gained a cult-like following ever since, with everyone from elite athletes, to pro footballers, to us normal lot at home swearing by them for easing delayed onset muscle soreness and making workout recovery that little bit easier.

Gone are the days of having to spend hundreds on a massage every few weeks - now, you can invest in a Theragun and get the job done while watching Bake Off. They're simple to use, convenient, and widely appealing (although obviously, if you train at a high level, it's still advised to get massages as and when you can).

This Autumn, they're releasing a whole new line up of products that they've been working on for years - one of which is the SmartGoggles.

What are the SmartGoggles?

According to the brand, they're essentially a sleep mask that combines a biometric heart rate sensor (a sensor that mirrors your own heart rate) with vibration, heat, and massage.

The perks? The mask promises to:

• Ease headaches
• Ease facial and temple tension
• Encourage relaxation
• Optimise sleep.

They have various settings, too - this isn't a one-trick pony. During the day, if you need a concentration boost, they're said to ease facial tension, whereas pre-bedtime, they'll relax you enough to help you ease into a restful slumber.

As Wersland explains when I meet him in Shoreditch to discuss the new launches, wellness has always been at the core of what Therabody does (he loves recounting tales of easing strangers' pain with the personal Theragun he carries with him, discussing massaging a receptionist with a back strain earlier that day).

Their USP? They're utilising the expertise of Wersland's engineers, doctors, and scientists to create everyday products that absolutely anyone can use.

How do the SmartGoggles feel? 

Getting my hands on them for the first time for this Therabody SmartGoggles review, they strike me as rather - ahem - space age. They're hefty and look more like a VR headset than your standard silk eye mask. That said, they boast an awful lot of tech and so are naturally going to be a bit chunkier.

They feel soft on my face and are comfortable enough, plus the headband holds the mask in place without squeezing your head too tight.

How do the SmartGoggles work?

So, how do they actually work? Good question. You'll notice a little sensor on the right-hand side that sits on your cheek and looks like a SIM card. This mimics your heart beat, supposedly easing you into a slower heart rate and more relaxed state.

Are they easy to use? Easy enough. Navigating the buttons is intuitive - there is an on button and there are three clear settings on the right-hand side, indicated by a brain (focus during the day), sun (daytime relaxation), and moon (sleep relaxation).

Flicking to sleep mode and placing the goggles on, I'm surprised. The pressure is more than I expected, and I can only liken it to the tight arm-squeeze you feel when you're getting your blood pressure monitored. That said, you can change the settings to ease it off if it's too intense for you.

They're also quite loud - a soft whirring in my ears isn't what I'm used to pre-bedtime - but the brand encourages you to use it alongside the app to play in-ear sleep meditations at the same time. Once I get this set up, I barely notice the noise.

The question on everyone's lips: are you actually meant to sleep in them? Wersland is vague in his response when I ask, sharing that the cycle will automatically stop after 15 minutes (he uses them just before sleep and then takes them off). I found them a bit constricting to be able to fully drift off so took them off and placed them on my bedside table before nodding off.

So, what was my honest Therabody SmartGoggles review? 

They're intriguing, no doubt about it - but did I actually sleep better? I'm not sure. While I did feel relaxed, it still took me 20 or so minutes to drift off, and I felt as normal when I woke the next day. That said, I quite like that while they're on, I physically can't do anything else other than sit and unwind (no TikTok scrolling for me), meaning my bedtime routine is far more sleep-friendly and my wind-down time is enforced.

While the intense squeeze-and-release around my temples was a new sensation at first, I found the warmth soothing and the massage element helped me to relax after a busy day of screen time.

Have I used them since? Yes, I have - they've actually become a staple of my bedtime routine as they're easy to leave next to the bed and pop on after a bit of reading. I'm also very excited to pack them for my upcoming flight to Chicago to ease in-flight insomnia.

I'm not super techy but found they were simple to use, plus they charge super quickly, too, meaning you're never caught out. Sold? Pretty much.

A hotel stay with a cult-following gym class thrown in for good measure? As a Health Editor, I had to try.

You'll all have heard of Barry's Bootcamp - the self-proclaimed hardest workout in the world and a firm celeb favourite.

While Joe Wicks has really put high intensity interval training on the map in the UK in recent years, Barry's claims it was the first studio to ever offer HIIT-focused classes when they opened back in West Hollywood back in 1998.

So when I heard that the King's Cross-based studio had teamed up with another celeb favourite - boutique hotel The Standard - to offer a package where you get a class included in your overnight stay, I was keen to try.

I tried the new Barry's x The Standard Burn Baby Burn package: here's what I thought 

Barry's Bootcamp: what a class looks like

First things first - a bit of background about Barry's for you. You'll likely have heard of the class and seen celebrities like Adriana Lima, David and Victoria Beckham, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Harry Styles trying it (fun fact: a friend of mine was once next to David Beckham on a treadmill in London). But do you know what it actually entails?

They have 70 studios around the world and nine studios in the UK, and if you head to their website, you'll see that their tagline proudly states that they do things a little differently to other workout studios.

How so? Well, each class promises to help you burn up to 1,000 calories during a one-hour class (calories aren't the be-all and end-all of a workout, but high calorie burn can be useful if you're looking to lose fat or improve lean muscle).

How? Well, by hiring some of the best PT's, plus an hour-long combination of treadmill sprints and strength training. When you're on the tread, they'll walk you through a warm-up and then series of intervals, and when you're on the floor, depending on the class, you'll do weight training focusing on your upper body, lower body, or both.

Naturally, there's a great soundtrack, to boot - our class had everything from Beyonce to Kanye - and mood lighting (hence why they call it "The Red Room").

Don't fancy running or alternatively, don't fancy weight training? You can do double tread or double floor - meaning you do an hour of just one of the disciplines instead.

The Standard: what a stay looks like

Onto the hotel - another firm celeb favourite frequented by the likes of Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Emma Stone, and Paloma Faith.

Fun fact for you: it's housed in what was once the Camden Town Hall Annex, and is quite the building. Rumour (and their welcome leaflet) tell me that when they bid on the property, their proposal was the only one that intended on keeping the original building (as opposed to knocking it down).

It's Brutalist in design and the interiors are mad but fun - bright primary and pastel colour touches decorate our train carriage-inspired room, and refreshments from the likes of TRIP CBD, Joe & Sephs, and Torres stock the minibar. Yes, there are outdoor bathtubs overlooking St Pancras station in certain rooms, but ours doesn't have one sadly.

Don't miss the chance to head up to their 10th-floor restaurant, Decimo, in the Insta-famous red "pill" shaped lift while you're there. It's a higher price point than your standard meal, but it's not a standard meal - far from it. Michelin-starred chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias showcases stunning Mexican tapas, a must-try being the mouthwateringly good red pepper tapenade and grilled sourdough quite literally swimming in olive oil (trust me on this one).

The offer is simple - book their "Stowaway" overnight stay package and you'll not only be booking a hotel room for the night, but a Barry’s class, too.

My thoughts? 

I thought The Standard hotel was stunning and I love the concept of being able to book a hotel stay with a workout class included.

All too often when you're away, you want to workout but lack motivation when faced with a sparse gym offering. No longer - if you've got a class booked in, you'll have exercise motivation provided for you. Plus, it's a great opportunity for those who haven't tried a Barry's before to give it a go in a relaxed setting.

What do you reckon - would you book a hotel stay with a workout class included, too?

For more info and details on how to book, head to The Standard website.

You'll never want to leave...

Nestled into the cliffside of Plaka, Elounda you'll find a little slice of heaven or CAYO as it's known to guests. Created with calm in mind every element of the five-star resort and spa is curated and considered. A picture-perfect retreat for those looking for an indulgent escape, a luxurious honeymoon destination or simply some much-needed R&R the attention to detail and care make it somewhere you'll be excited to return to over and over again.

CAYO's prime cliffside position offers breathtaking views of the historic Spinalonga islet (a former leper colony and focus of Victoria Hislop’s international best-selling novel, The Island) framed poignantly by the glistening Aegean sea.

The rooms

Designed to feel like a home away from home – albeit a very luxurious one, with most rooms boasting a private infinity pool.

Modern and minimalistic, each room is unique though all boast bright, airy panoramic views and inspirational sleek decor that'll result in a reshuffle of your 'dream home' Pinterest board. Curated by Milanese designer Gian Paolo Venier, each element was chosen to compliment the uniquely rugged backdrop of the cliffside with an eclectic mix of gleaming white Brazillian marble and black volcanic pebbles from Sumatra. An alluring mix of modern European culture with traditional Greek and Cretan elements.

Locally sourced pottery acts as a consistent accent throughout, accentuating the calming feel that runs throughout the resort. Its eco-friendly design and bioclimatic architecture, clean lines neutral palette and pops of CAYO's signature blue compliment the landscape.

With 70 rooms, suites and villas available - all offering sea views. Options range from Superior (the only option without a private pool) to larger three-story villas designed with families in mind. Scattered consciously across the steep cliffside two (air-conditioned) pod-style funiculars transport guests up and down the resort with ease, offering a delightful relief from the glorious but intense heat.

The food

Variety is the spice of life, a proverb befitting the delicious options available at CAYO. All menus are created by Lefteris Lazarou (the first Greek chef to be awarded a Michelin Star) using locally sourced, seasonal produce and eco-friendly farms. Selected seasonal herbs are grown onsite within the resort’s organic garden.

With three on-site restaurants start the day at Ambrosia, CAYO's main restaurant which serves a lovely breakfast (the fresh pancakes aren't to be missed) which you can enjoy poolside under their shaded terrace, as well as a buffet-style dinner with the Chefs’ creative interpretations of traditional and international cuisine (from fresh fish to vegan and vegetarian options - there's something for everyone). For lunch, visit Sage & Thyme Mediterranean restaurant (don't miss their Cretan salad with feta, fresh tomatoes and carob croutons or any dish that has a side of their phenomenal top-secret recipe roasted potatoes).

In the evenings, either enjoy dinner and live music back at Ambrosia or, make a reservation at the resorts à la carte restaurant Kelari. Where fresh sea-bass carpaccio and steak tartare are firm favourites and there's a wide selection of Greek and international wines to choose from.

If you're looking for a more intimate visit, the room service options are second to none. With breakfast and brunch, lunch, dinner and late-night snack options for you to enjoy.

The facilities

It's oh-so-easy to embrace a state of complete relaxation thanks to CAYO's calming atmosphere. With exceptional services and a kind, welcoming atmosphere everything is efficient and considered.

With the majority of resort rooms boasting private pools the resort's two large infinity pools are rarely crowded (after sunset, the lights in both sparkle like stars, order a hand-crafted cocktail and enjoy the view from either of their two bars and enjoy the view).

Poolside, the music is chilled and not overpowering. Surrounded by luxurious sunbeds and parasols, read uninterrupted poolside or take the complimentary shuttle to Plaka’s clean and peaceful pebble cove to Stone Beach House where you can enjoy sunbeds, parasols and towels on the seafront. Don't forget your snorkel, the crystal clear waters and vibrant sea life make it perfect for exploring the shoreline.

CAYO's candle-lit indoor spa pool, steam room and saunas are all worth a visit. With a wide range of treatments available from classic massages and mud masks to rituals inspired by Greek mythology.

With an onsite store selling luxurious Greek staples - think, kaftans and linens. With two electric vehicle charging stations and an onsite gym, you'll never want to leave.

How to book

An overnight stay in a Private Pool Sea View Room at CAYO Exclusive Resort & Spa starts from £350. For further details, visit cayoresort.com.

If you've been on TikTok lately, you've likely seen the thousands of posts about a certain rose-shaped sex toy.

It's been dubbed one of the best sex toys you can try and went viral for a reason: it boasts a unique air pleasure technology which users say deliver extra-intense orgasms. After being bombarded with rave reviews of the toy on the app under the hashtags #TheRoseToy and #YoniRose, I knew I had to try it and see what all the fuss was about. 

So, question: does it really pass the pleasure test when reviewed?

I'm Ness Cooper, a professional reviewer and sex-pert. Day-to-day, it's my job to stay on top of sex toy trends - so, yep, you guessed it, I’ve witnessed a fair few must-try viral sex toys in my time - yet, more often than not, they don't live up to the hype. 

While there are a few alternate rose sex toys available that promise to be similar, this rose sex toy review is of the raved-about Lovehoney version launched late last year.

So, will my Rose sex toy review prove otherwise and buck the trend? Don't miss my LELO Sila review and the LELO Sona 2 Cruise review, while you're here - two of the best sex toys for couples (that also use suction) totally worth your time.

Rose sex toy review: “It's cute, pretty, and easy to use - but not the strongest”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

So, more about the viral rose toy, which promises to be both powerful and pretty - not something that can be said of all sex toys. 

But it's not all just for show - the rose petals actually allow for a different sensation to other oral sex simulators. The broader top isn’t like other brands where the clitoral nozzle is more pin-point, which means you can feel sensation over your whole vulva and not just your clit.

How to use the Rose sex toy and how it was

I found the Rose sex toy to be pretty and easy to use, and I liked that I could hold it comfortably in my hand. Taking it out of the packaging, I applied a few droplets of water-based lubricant (read our guide to the best lubes, here) over the petals and into the clitoral nozzle.

Massaging myself with the tips of the petals, I began to feel the vibrations, enjoying them as a form of foreplay. Placing the suction chamber on my clit, I began to work through the settings and found that I become more excited using the continuous patterns.

So, cons? The toy certainly isn't the most powerful clitoral suction toy I’ve tried but it did still result in a pleasant orgasm. Its clitoral chamber is rather small, and if your clitoris expands from the excitement (which is totally normal and happens to most of us), it can make the pleasure air technology come to a halt. The same happens when the sex toy is pressed too firmly against the body, which sometimes happened to me out of habit as I became more excited and closer to climaxing.

Not to mention the fact that, while I was exploring the patterns, the sex toy made fairly loud techno-like noises. Combine that with the flashing lights and sound of the device and I felt like I was having a mini NSFW rave in my bedroom.

Don't miss the secret to this sex toy that I only discovered when cleaning: the clitoral nozzle is actually removable, meaning the petals open up, allowing you to explore different sensations.

Also note: my Rose sex toy initially wouldn't turn on (I thought I’d received a dud). That said, after pressing a combination of buttons, I realised it was in travel lock mode - yep, who knew? (Top tip for you: simply press and hold the two buttons to take the sex toy out of travel mode).

How to keep it maintained and clean

Being fully waterproof and bath friendly, the Lovehoney Rose can be washed in warm water and your standard antibacterial wash.

Plus, as above, the petals (aka clitoral nozzle) can be removed, meaning you can pop this off to clean under the suction attachment. Wondering how to clean your sex toys properly? You're in the right place. 

About the Lovehoney brand

Lovehoney is one of the largest online sex toy retailers and a leader in sex tech innovation. They've just launched the first sexual wellness store on the Metaverse with sex toy-themed activities and a section where you can explore and buy erotic NFTs.

Should I buy it?

Good question - and the answer is, it's up to you and your sexual tastes. Sometimes we all just want something pretty in our lives: that’s how I feel about the Lovehoney Rose. It may not be the most powerful suction clitoral vibrator or live up to its viral hype, but it does the job whilst also looking aesthetically pleasing, too. 

No worries about leaving it on your bedside table, then...

Hands up if you've ever heard of a ride-on sex toy? If you haven't, you're in for a treat. The Ruby Glow Blush - a sex toy current doing the rounds as a must-try - is a ride-on vibrator dubbed as one of the best sex toys to try ASAP. Keen to know more? Then you'll have to keep scrolling for my Ruby Glow Blush review.

So how does it work? Well, once removed from its seated dock, it to be used as either an internal or external wand massager - double whammy. Usually, ride-on vibrators are large and bulky, but the Ruby Glow Blush is a petite sex toy best used seated on a chair or pillow (hence the label "ride-on" - as you quite literally ride on it). 

Read a sex toy review in the past? Then the chances are you've read some of my content before. My name's Ness Cooper and I'm a sexologist who's tested hundreds of sex toys over the years. All too often I come across tech claiming to be innovative, yet it lacks oomf (not to mention functionality) in the bedroom.

So, is the Ruby Glow Blush as innovative as it claims? You'll have to keep reading to find out. Don't miss my LELO Sila review, LELO Sona Cruise 2 review, and LELO Enigma review, while you're here. 

Ruby Glow Blush review: “The ride-on sex toy offered pleasure I wasn’t expecting.”

Special features and what sets it apart from competitors

So, more about the Ruby Glow Blush. As above, it's a ride-on sex toy that's best known for its compact size - normally, ride-on toys are large, costly, and intimidating sex machines.

This makes it somewhat unique - plus, an added bonus the toy boasts is that it can be removed from its charging dock (again, not something other ride-on's allow). This means it can be used in a myriad of ways - both as a ride on, as an insertable vibrator, and as a G-spot toy.

FYI, normally ride-on’s need multiple attachments, but the Ruby Glow Blush doesn't require any to be enjoyed in various adventurous ways.

How to use the Ruby Glow Blush and how it was

Onto my Ruby Glow Blush review. After charging both the main wand and remote, I started exploring the toy from the main sex position its designed for - seated. I sat with the toy positioned under my vulva and found each curve rested against its targeted area. As I explored the motors and different setting options. I could feel vibrations travel throughout my vulva, with particular focus on my clitoris, vaginal opening, premium, and anus (although this depended on which motor combination I was on).

I found the standard setting the most enjoyable (the lower vibration setting felt a bit too weak for my taste). The shape surprised me by being so comfortable to sit on, which also helped relieve some of my pelvic tension - occupational hazard. 

I tried experimenting with grinding on the sex toy in different ways and the wand vibrator stayed in position even when I was getting carried away. While I didn’t orgasm easily with the Ruby Glow Blush when used as a ride-on, I did enjoy using it and found it a great way to experience hands-free pleasure (a bit like with the Lovehoney Love Egg)

As an insertable G-spot wand, the curved tip hit my G-spot instantly. I was able to use one hand to control the remote, meaning I could focus on rocking the tip over my G-spot and become fully absorbed with the sensations, leading to a pleasing G-spot orgasm. With multiple motors along the shaft of the wand too, I really did like the surround-sound feeling they offered inside my vagina and how I could feel vibrations in my G-spot, vaginal entrance, and even travel through my vaginal walls to my clitoris. 

How to keep it maintained and clean

Even the remote is completely waterproof, meaning you can wash all the parts of the Ruby Glow Blush in warm water and your standard sex toy cleaner.

Once dry, the wand part of toy can be placed back in its docking station ready for the next time you want to take a ride.

About the Ruby Glow brand

Tabitha Rayne is an erotic writer and designer of the Ruby Glow Dusk and Ruby Glow Blush.

All Ruby Glow products are made by Rocks Off which is a UK sex toy manufacturer behind one of the most well-known bullet vibrators, the RO-80mm. Fun fact: the toy has sold over five million globally.

Should I buy it?

It's the toy for you if you're after something that offers options, various forms of stimulation, and multiple ways to explore sweet spots and erogenous zones.

The ride-on feature is definitely a winner, even though it can be a slow start on the journey to orgasm.

Love Island season 8 comes to an end this evening, after two months of daily drama from the Majorcan villa.

This series has been a particularly controversial one, with Women's Aid and Refuge both releasing statements and calling for change after accusations of misogyny and bullying.

One week prompted over 5,000 complaints to UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, particularly surrounding the behaviour of 23-year-old contestant, Luca Bish, with viewers warning that he was displaying signs of misogyny and gaslighting.

Domestic abuse charity Women's Aid confirmed that they were in talks with Love Island producers to improve the show's duty of care last month.

"At Women’s Aid we are being tagged into a stream of Twitter posts, with viewers of Love Island highlighting the misogyny and controlling behaviour being shown on screen," Teresa Parker, head of communications and media relations at Women’s Aid, explained to Metro.

She continued: "This is clearly more than talking about any individual contestants, and a programme based around the formation of romantic relationships must have guidelines on what behaviour is acceptable and unacceptable in those relationships. We are talking to ITV, and they have shared with us information on their inclusion training, but what appears to be missing is specific information on abusive relationships and an understanding of controlling behaviour in relationships."

"The misogyny and casual sexism witnessed on this series of Love Island is extremely concerning," added women's rights group, Refuge. "The double standards, gaslighting and coercive control being displayed by the men in the villa is hugely problematic."

Love Island bosses have now confirmed that they will be reviewing the format following the complaints.

"We continually assess a programme as it is going on because it is one of these odd every night live sort of shows," explained Kevin Lygo, managing director of ITV studios. "But when the series comes to an end on Monday, we will always sit down and review what we think about it, what the reaction has been, how well it has done. And we have to say this year, remember, it is the best one we have had in many years and I think everyone is thoroughly enjoying it."

The statement continued: "To get five million people to watch a show every night at 9 o’clock is extraordinary in the modern era, so something is being done right. But… we must always look to improve and work on what we have done. But we are very happy with the way it has gone so far."

We will continue to update this story.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse helpline

Hands up if you’ve never considered going on a cruise before because you imagined it would mean a week of fighting for the last barbecue skewer at the buffet, enduring cheesy entertainment night after night and practicing untold amounts of patience when you get splashed by kids dive bombing in the pool?

Okay. Now imagine that every restaurant on board has an à la carte menu, there’s not a tribute act in sight, there’s a tattoo parlour if you fancy an inking and champagne on tap whenever you need it. Oh, and it’s adults only.

Suddenly sounding a bit more appealing? The Virgin Voyages luxury liners are here to crush every preconceived idea you have about cruises, re-branding the sun soaked sails to make them cool again. And honestly, Richard Branson, it’s working. 

The Valiant Lady has a pretty spectacular way of doing things. Travelling from Barcelona to Ibiza by way of incredible mediterranean hotspots like Ajaccio and Cagliari, the ship’s Irresistible Med route showcases some gorgeous European gems. So if you want to enjoy the delights of Italy and France before the ship heads to Miami later this year, now’s your chance. 

The ship 

The Valiant Lady is the second ship in the Virgin Voyages fleet, following on from their debut offering, The Scarlet Lady. 

Valiant is pretty unmissable at the port, standing at a whopping 278 metres long with capacity to hold over 2,700 sailors. However, with seventeen decks packed full of places to eat, drink, dance, swim, sunbathe, work out and - most importantly - chill out, you’ll never feel crowded. 

Naturally, Virgin’s musical roots are very much a part of the trip with the likes of Bloc Party and The XX playing throughout the ship during the day, and the whole vessel is an Instagrammer’s playground. If you’re ever lost for things to do (you won’t be), just head to the aquarium themed lifts for a selfie session. Seriously, they never get old.

Oh, and here’s a little tip: if you’re interested in using a loo with a view, head to the pool deck and turn right at the bar - it’s interesting.

The rooms

The Sea Terrace rooms are light, airy and modern with a seafaring twist and the option for a double or twin set up - both of which can be transformed into sofa seating during the day to maximise space. You’ll have the many modcons that you’d also find in a hotel - rainshower, flat screen TV, wifi, AC - and as you’re on a luxury cruise liner, you’ll also have a private balcony with your very own hammock, perfect for that pre-dinner chill out on a balmy evening. 

The lighting, heating and curtains can all be controlled with an in-room tablet, and there are a number of fun mood settings to play with. It’s also where you’ll find a range of films to stream for those wind-down hours. 

If you want to treat yourself, there are premium cabin options available in the Rockstar Quarters and these also give you access to Richard’s Rooftop, an exclusive deck for VIPs. Fancy.

The food

With over twenty eateries to whet your appetite and menus curated by Michelin star chefs no less, the food on the Valiant Lady will definitely impress (and keep you full). 

Brunch lovers should head straight to Razzle Dazzle. Not only will you get your grid-worthy shot thanks to its bold monochrome-meets-unicorn decor, you’ll find everything your avocado toast, poached eggs, fairy bread-loving heart desires. 

For dinner, Gunbae is home to mouth-watering Korean BBQ plates and the tables are equipped with grills so you can cook your own dishes. Pink Agave is where you’ll find a range of ‘elevated’ Mexican dishes - from squash with habanero pepper to seared shrimp and roasted duck - and you’ll want to try everything. Best to make two reservations. 

But for a true treat of the tastebuds, make a beeline for The Wake. Situated at the back of the ship, the steak and seafood restaurant offers incredible ocean views through the floor to ceiling windows at the stern and it all feels very grand. Think Mad Men meets Titanic vibes. Start with oysters, then try the fillet mignon or New Zealand lamb chops with a side of creamed spinach and brown butter wild mushrooms. Washed down with a glass of Champagne, obviously.

And what’s on offer during the day? Well, for starters there’s an ice cream parlour open from 11.30am to 10pm (no one will judge you on how many times you visit in a day), but if you’re looking for a savoury lunch there’s a cute pizzeria offering made-to-order pizza. The Galley is your go-to for a quick lunch, and it’s also open throughout the night - meaning that the 3am post-club hunger pangs (yes, there’s a nightclub on board - more on that later) will be satisfied with a full English should you want one. 

For those who love a little room service, fear not. You haven’t been forgotten. The Virgin Voyages app makes it super easy to order food to your room - think the ship’s very own version of Uber Eats. Handy? Yes. Dangerous? Also yes.

The drinks

With chic bars aplenty, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to after dinner drinks. Grab a cocktail at On The Rocks while listening to some soothing live jazz, or knock back the bubbles at the Champagne bar, Sip Lounge. For more of a pub feel, try Draught Haus or The Loose Cannon.

And if you’re after a dance floor, The Manor is a two-storey nightclub opposite the casino with a sparkly mirrored entrance (aka perfect for photo opps).

The facilities

Whether your ideal getaway is spent lounging in the sun, propped up at the bar, unwinding with a massage or hitting the gym, the Valiant Lady has got you covered. 

The pool deck boasts two options for those wanting a dip, and there are absolutely enough outdoor seating, sprawling and laying spaces for everyone - whether you want a double sun bed, individual lounger, deck chair or private cabana. 

Unwinding in the spa is a must, so book yourself in for a seaweed wrap or hot stone therapy and hit up the Thermal Suite for a sauna and steam, plunge pools, and mud and salt rooms.

Anyone who wants to get a little movement in can make the most of the outdoor space incorporating everything from a running track, outdoor gym, basketball court and boxing ring, or head to the indoor gym to get your sweat on. Fitness classes are also available, from yoga to an 80s VHS style workout. Don’t say exercise on the Valiant Lady isn’t fun. 

There’s also a tattoo parlour if you’re feeling daring, and a number of shops for a little retail therapy.

What to do 

Considering the ship is 18+, you can expect the nightly entertainment to be less pop star impersonators or kid friendly magic shows. Instead think hilarious drag queens, artists from the New York theatre scene and risqué sex shows. 

There are also fun activities which you can book through the app, including sip and paint classes, as well as pub quizzes and a Scarlet Night - when everyone is encouraged to wear red, head to the pool deck and dance the night away under the stars.

Off ship, there are so many excursions to choose from that you’ll need to spend some time seriously selecting your favourites. Enjoy an al fresco lunch with farm to table ingredients in the Italian countryside, take a cooking class in Corsica or book a high adrenaline sport at one of your stop offs. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you save yourself for the penultimate night when the ship docks in Ibiza and you’re free to go and party on the Island until dawn. 

Route

The Valiant Lady’s Irresistible Med route starts in Barcelona before heading to Toulon, Marina di Carrara, Ajaccio, Cagliari and Ibiza, then returning to Barcelona. 

Virgin Voyages offer a number of routes for travellers, whether you prefer to sail through Europe or coast the Caribbean, and you can find out more about the trips on offer here. 

Need to knows

App-y Days

Everything you need is accessible via the Virgin Voyages app - whether you want to book an excursion, check out the gym class timetable or make a dinner reservation. And if you want someone to come and find you with champagne, that’s also an option. Seriously. 

Brace-let yourself

Upon checking in, you’ll receive a band which will act as both your room key and your wallet. You can load your money onto the bracelet using the app, meaning that you never have to worry about carrying cash or a key. Easy. 

No need to wine

While many cruise lines prohibit passengers from bringing alcohol onto the ship, Virgin Voyages allows sailors to bring two bottles of wine (750ml) in their hand luggage. You can also purchase goods at stop-off ports, meaning that if you want to bring that delicious bottle of Rioja home you very much can. Hurrah. While you can’t consume alcohol purchased elsewhere during your journey, staff will store it for you to collect when you disembark. 

It is also worth noting that service tips are included in the price of your fare. Food and essential drinks are covered for the duration of your voyage.

Eco Trip

To lean into more sustainable practices, there are a number of initiatives on board including the banning of single-use plastics, water bottles, packaging and non-recyclable takeaway cups. They also purify waste water, the room sensors ensure less energy is used and they transform heat from the engines into clean energy. On top of that, Virgin Voyages partners with not-for-profit organisations to advance ocean education and protection.

How to book

The Valiant Lady is currently sailing in Europe, but there are a number of routes you may be interested in. For more information and to book your trip, visit www.virginvoyages.com. 

An all-rounder that promises to take you from your workout to work.

This year, lululemon launched footwear - a huge step for the athleisurewear brand that's biggest selling point, for decades, has been their workout leggings.

In February, they launched their running trainer (read my review of the blissfeel, here) - a light, propulsive running shoe designed by women, for women. Next comes their chargefeel workout trainer, £138, an all-rounder designed for all sweat sessions and available in high and low-top options and 14 colourways.

Did you know that, until 2022, workout shoes were always designed for men and then shrunk down for the female foot? Pretty shocking, right. Yet this year, lululemon - alongside brands like adidas - have rewritten the narrative, going back to the drawing board and designing shoes specifically for the female foot.

I was invited by the brand to test the shoe out last week - here's what, as a Health Editor who tests 5+ pairs of workout shoes a month, I thought. Don't miss our guide to the best running trainers, as tested by team MC, while you're here.

lululemon chargefeel workout trainer review: "A real all-rounder - I can't fault them." 

The brand share that they worked with leading biomechanics specialists and analysed millions of foot scans before starting the design process for the chargefeel. They knew they wanted to create an all-rounder shoe as, realistically, most women will only buy one pair of workout trainers and will need them to be suitable for every session.

At current, most people do lots of different workotus in shoes that are only designed for one - for example, weight training in super springy, cushioned running trainers or running in flat-as-you-like weight training shoes. Not only is this not great for your form, it can be seriously bad for your body and lead to injuries along the way (read our expert-led guide to preventing injury, here).

So, yep, it's fair to say I was excited about the chargefeel. You shouldn't need to invest in more than one pair of trainers - they should be multi-faceted.

When I tested, I wore for a strength training class, a five-mile run, and a walk. My initial thoughts? They look simple, are easy to put on and are immediately comfy. When I pull them on for my strength class, I immediately noticed a bounce and a lightness in my step, which I wasn't expecting from the heel size.

Pros: my arch feels supported and steady both lifting weights and pounding the pavement. During our circuit class, I'm surprised to find that the shoes really do offer the right support for both weights and high-intensity movements, like high knees and jump lunges - normally two totally different disciplines that require different support. I'm stable for squatting but also springy for the cardio moves - a hard middle ground to strike. My feet are also blister-free after three workouts in the trainer.

The brand promised versatility with this launch, and that they've delivered on. They promised that the shoes would offer the bounce you need for running, the support you need for strength training, and a flexible yet super-charged outsole perfect for high intensity interval training, circuits, and every workout in between - and they really do.

Another key highlight for me: I've worn the trainers into the office with suit trousers and a tank top twice now, and they fit seamlessly into your working wardrobe - something which I think is essential for working, busy women. Nobody wants to lug two pairs of shoes around and similarly, investing in kit that's multi-purpose is sustainable and a good way of guaranteeing value for money.

Cons: I'm clutching at straws, but if I were to find some, when trying the white colourway, they do get grubby fairly quickly (that's what you get for living and run commuting in central London).

I personally like the double logo branding on the shoe - it's subtle and not hugely noticeable - but some might find it a bit much. As far as I'm aware, most other running shoes normally have a singular logo visible, but it varies from brand to brand.

lululemon has struck the perfect balance with this shoe, in my opinion - their customers love their kit for its versatility and the ability to wear it to everything from Barre to brunch. This is the shoes USP: it really is an all-rounder, but it's grounded in performance, too, meaning it'll not only look good, but support you through any workout, too.

*Adds to basket*

Don't forget to add the latest Lululemon discount codes at checkout.