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10 Ways to Boost Your Energy

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Firing on all four cylinders 24/7? Before you lose steam try one or all of these tips that will help fight off fatigue.
Firing on all four cylinders? Before you lose steam fight off fatigue with this energizing advice.
spinach bunch
“Research shows that when the body doesn't have enough magnesium, a mineral that is found in our bones, tissues, and organs, it has an increased need for oxygen during exercise—in other words, you wear out more easily,” explains Rachel Meltzer Warren, MS, RD, a New York-based nutritionist. “Magnesium is found in foods like spinach, almonds, cashews, and soybeans.” Keep a plethora of nuts on hand for quick energy boosts. Experts have also found that increased magnesium levels help assist chronic sleep problems—another fast track to more energy! For maximum absorption be sure to eat your magnesium-rich foods with a serving of calcium, or take a 500 mg supplement of it.
man running on the sand
It’s been a long winter, and for a lot of guys that means being stuck indoors. Even if you kept up with indoor workouts on the dreadmill, you may be missing out on Vitamin D, a critical energy- and immune-boosting vitamin which comes to us courtesy of the sun. A recent study in the publication Environmental Science & Technology shed some light on the positive effects of outdoor activity. “Compared with exercising indoors, exercising in natural environments was associated with greater feelings of revitalization and positive engagement, decreases in tension, confusion, anger, and depression, and increased energy.” Psych yourself up for a 10 minute power walk outdoors, and chances are in your favor that you’ll keep going for 30 minutes—plenty of time to soak up some Vitamin D.
man drinking water in the park
You've got to stay hydrated to keep your energy levels high. By the time you’re thirsty, you’re already on your way to being dehydrated. “Even mild dehydration (as little as 1% below the optimal level) can cause fatigue, loss of focus, headache, and depressed mood, according to one recent study in the Journal of Nutrition,” explains Meltzer. Constant drinking of liquids such as coconut water, herbal tea, flavored seltzer, and water will help keep you hydrated. “To make sure you're drinking enough, check the color of your urine—anything darker than pale yellow, and you'll know you to be need to be drinking more fluids.”
peppermint candies
In a classic study that appeared in the Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, Bryan Raudenbush, Ph.D., and Director of Undergraduate Research at Wheeling Jesuit University in Wheeling, WV, concluded that athletic performance was improved in a controlled environment infused with peppermint odor. "Forty athletes undertook a series of physical tasks under conditions of no-odor or peppermint odor. The peppermint odor condition resulted in increased running speed, hand grip strength, and number of push-ups." Similar studies have shown that popping a mint while driving or taking a test can increase alertness.
man watching TV
Okay, not really. Everyone needs time to chill out and decompress, but too much of a bad thing is just that. According to the Nielsen organization, “The average American spends more than 41 hours each week—nearly five-and-a-half hours daily—engaging with content across all screens. They spend most of that time (more than 34 hours) in front of a TV.” You do the math, and it becomes obvious very quickly how many other productive and healthy activities you could be doing instead of being parked out on the couch—for starters, exercising outdoors (see #2), having sex (see #6) or listening to energy-rousing music (#10).
Zico coconut water brand label
couple's bare feet exposed in bed
“The penis is the dipstick of the body's health,” says Dr. Harry Fisch, a urologist in NYC and author of multiple books on health and sexuality including Size Matters: The Hard Facts of Male Sexuality That Every Woman Should Know. “The equation is simple. If you’re feeling low energy, you’re not going to want to have sex. When you’re having sex, it’s an energy release and you tend to be happier and have more energy to do things you like.” Including, more sex. So guys, make the first move.
silhouette shadow of man holding bottle of alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol has a negative domino effect. Aside from the cinematic hangover symptoms that you have to endure after a long night out, drinking too much weakens your immune system, making you susceptible for every sick-making germ you come in contact with. Plus, "alcohol is the major depressant for sex and energy. It's just the worst.” says Dr. Fisch. “So if you’re planning on having sex, make sure you don’t drink. It increases the desire, but decreases the ability. Hence, the term Whiskey Dick.”
skull and cross-bone toast
This is a mantra that’s on repeat just about everywhere you look: “Eat whole grains”, or “Eat less of the white stuff” (white flour, white sugar, and all of the processed snack foods that are made with these ingredients). These processed carbs wreak havoc on your waistline, and on top of it they won't give you any sustained energy. “Your body absorbs the energy in simple carbohydrates very quickly,” explains Meltzer. “Complex carbohydrates, on the other hand, are like time-release energy for your body. Focus on getting the majority of your carbohydrates in the form of vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains. Your body takes longer to break down and digest them, which means you get a steady supply of energy for a longer period of time.”
man in bed wearing sleeping mask
You already know this but we'll say it again: Getting enough sleep is critical for health and well-being. The National Institute of Health pulls no punches when explaining the fallout that can occur when you continually fall short: “Ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Plus, sleep is also the time when the energy-boosting hormone testosterone is made. “The number one symptom of low testosterone is low energy,” explains Dr. Fisch. And since testosterone is made when you sleep it's crucial to get 7-9 hours a night. To improve your sleep regimen, try reading instead of watching TV before bed, and try to hit the hay at the same time every night—even on the weekends.
athletic man holding water bottle and wearing headphones
“It’s clear throughout history that music has been an energizer. It’s not an accident that men have marched to war with music,” explains Al Bumanis, spokesperson for the American Music Therapy Association. “If you look back you'll see that music was always playing an important role in historical events. There were bands in the Civil War, and it’s a way that athletes have always psyched themselves up before games. In clinical music therapy we use music to connect people to movement and motivation.” Load your MP3 player with music that makes you feel like moving, and your energy will follow.
Page Title: 
How to Increase Energy With Power Foods, Fluid Intake and Outdoor Exercise

Win a Breville Juice Fountain Crush

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Enter now for a chance to win one of ten of these high-performance deluxe masticating juicers!
Breville Juice Fountain Crush

This high-performance masticating juicer uses an ultra-quiet 240-watt motor to squeeze fruits and vegetables dry and yield delicious, nutrient-dense juice.

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Top 10 Yoga Poses for Men

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Mastering these basic yoga poses will help you strengthen and stretch your muscles, improve your posture, and prevent workout injuries. So…what are you waiting for? Prepare yourself for serious challenges on and off the yoga mat.
Feeling stiff? Mastering these basic moves will help you stretch your muscles—and strengthen them, too.
modified boat pose

When you’ve never tried yoga, it can be intimidating, especially if you’ve been scoping the jaw-dropping, super bendy, pretzel-like poses your girlfriend practices each morning. But relax: It’s actually the most basic postures—not the fancy positions—that provide you with the foundation of flexibility and strength that every man needs. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of poses, which you’ll return to again and again. Work on them first at home—holding each pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute while keeping your breathing smooth throughout—and you’ll be ready to dive into any fast-moving yoga class.

Check out: 9 Reasons To Practice Yoga>>>

mountain pose

What it does: Simple but effective, mountain pose builds a solid foundation for all other standing poses. It strengthens and returns flexibility to your feet, improves your posture, and works your thighs and core.

How to do it: Stand with your big toes touching and heels slightly apart. Balance the weight evenly on your feet and lift up the arches. Engage the thigh muscles slightly to lift up the kneecaps, but avoid locking your knees.

How to get better: With every inhale, imagine lengthening your spine by stretching your head toward the ceiling. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your shoulder blades drawing down your back.

tree pose

What it does: Like other standing balance poses, tree pose will improve your focus while strengthening the muscles in your ankles, calves and thighs. It also stretches the inner thigh and groin muscles on the bent leg.

How to do it: Shift your weight onto your right foot, pressing it firmly onto the floor. Bend the leftt leg at the knee and place the sole of the left foot on your inner right thigh. Point the toes toward the floor. If this is difficult, you can also place the sole of the foot on the inner calf or ankle (but avoid the knee). Bring your palms together in front of your chest and keep your weight centered over the left foot. Press the right knee back to open the groin while keeping your hips parallel to the front of the room. Release the foot and repeat on the other side.

How to get better: To improve your balance, keep your attention on the floor a few feet in front of you.

Watch the video: How to do Tree Pose>>>

standing forward bend yoga pose

What it does: Standing forward bend can calm your mind, while also stretching the hamstrings and muscles of the spine.

How to do it: Start in mountain pose with your hands on your hips, then exhale, tucking your chin slightly toward your chest and bending forward at the hips. (As you fold forward, lengthen the front of your torso to avoid curling the spine.) Relax your head, neck and shoulders and let your arms hang loosely. Place your palms or fingertips on the floor beside or slightly in front of your feet. (If you can’t touch the floor, cross your forearms and grab your elbows.) To come out of the pose, bring your hands to your hips and lift up on an inhale. Keep your chin tucked and lengthen the front of your torso as you come back up.

How to get better: If your hamstrings are very tight, bend your knees slightly to let the spine stretch toward the floor. Avoid pulling yourself down with your hands—let gravity do the work.

Watch the video: How to do Standing Forward Bend>>>

warrior I yoga pose

What it does: Warrior I is often encountered during the Sun Salutation sequence. In addition to improving your balance, this pose stretches and strengthens the ankles, calves and thighs. It also stretches the chest, lungs, shoulders and groin.

How to do it: From mountain pose, step your right foot forward and lift your arms overhead. Turn your left foot 45 to 60 degrees to the left. Bend your right knee until it is over the ankle. Bring the hips parallel to the front of the room. Arch your upper back slightly, lifting your chest up toward the ceiling. Press your palms together, if possible, or keep your hands shoulder width apart with your palms facing each other. Look forward or up at your thumbs. When done, step the right foot back into mountain pose. Repeat on the other side.

How to get better: The most challenging part of this pose is lining up the front heel with the arch of the back foot. If you feel unbalanced, widen your stance.

Watch the video: How to do Warrior I>>>

downward facing dog yoga pose

What it does:  Downward-facing dog, another pose found in the Sun Salutation sequence, strengthens the legs and arms, while stretching the calves, hamstrings, shoulders, hands and wrists.

How to do it: Start on your hands and knees, with your hands just in front of your shoulders and your knees directly below your hips. Press your hands firmly onto the floor, with index fingers pointing forward. As you exhale, lift your knees off the floor, keeping the knees slightly bent. Stretch your tailbone toward the ceiling to lengthen your spine. Press your heels down toward the floor and your thighs back to straighten your legs. Keep pressing the base of your index fingers into the floor and lift along your arms from your hands to your shoulders. Draw your shoulder blades against your back and down toward your tailbone. When done, drop your knees to the floor.

How to get better: It’s okay to keep the knees slightly bent in this pose—focus more on lengthening your spine. Use your triceps to straighten your arms, but keep the shoulders from moving toward your ears.

Watch the video: How to do Downward-Facing Dog>>>

crescent lunge

What it does: Also known as crescent lunge, this is similar to Warrior I, except with the back heel lifted and the feet about hip width apart. In this position, you may find it easier to keep your hips parallel to the front of the room, but your leg muscles will work harder to maintain your balance. High lunge will also strengthen the arms and stretch the muscles of the groin.

How to do it: Start in downward-facing dog. As you exhale, step your left foot forward between your hands, keeping your left knee over the ankle and your feet hip-width apart. As you inhale, lift your torso upright and bring your arms out to the side and overhead. If possible, bring your palms together—or keep the hands shoulder width apart with the palms facing each other. Press back through your right heel and lift up through the torso. To come out of the pose, bring your hands to the floor as you exhale and step back to downward-facing dog. Repeat on the other side.

How to get better: Don’t lean forward—keep the torso directly over the hips, and think about sinking your hips straight downward while engaging the back thigh to keep the back leg straight. Don’t let the front knee move ahead of the ankle.

Watch the video: How to do Crescent Lunge>>>

boat pose

What it does: While often known for its ab-busting potential, boat pose also works the deep hip flexors, as well as the spine. When you add in the arms, even your shoulders will get stronger.

How to do it: Start seated with your legs extended in front of you. Press your hands into the floor just behind the hips, pointing your fingers forward. Lean back slightly and lift up through your chest, to keep your back from rounding. As you exhale, bend your knees and lift your feet off the floor until your thighs are at a 45-degree angle from the floor. Straighten your legs slowly. When you feel stable, lift your arms off the floor and bring them out in front of you, parallel to the floor with the palms facing each other. To come out of the pose, lower your legs and arms as you exhale.

How to get better: If your hamstrings are tight, keep the knees bent so you can maintain the neutral shape of the spine—similar to as if you were sitting in a chair. For a more intense workout, lift your arms overhead.

Watch the video: How to do Boat Pose>>>

locust yoga pose

What it does: Locust pose is a great way to slowly strengthen your back and prepare you for more challenging backbends. In addition to working the muscles of the spine, locust strengthens the buttocks and the muscles on the back side of the arms and legs. It will also stretch the chest, shoulders and thighs.

How to do it: Lie on your belly with your forehead on the floor and your hands by your hips, palms facing up. Point your big toes toward each other slightly to roll your thighs inward. As you exhale, lift your head, chest, arms and legs off the floor. Rest your weight on your belly, lower ribs and pelvis. As you inhale, lengthen your spine by stretching your head forward and your legs backward. Stretch back through your fingertips while keeping your arms parallel to the floor. Look down or slightly forward to avoid crunching your neck backward. Lower down on an exhale.

How to get better: As you hold the pose, think about lengthening your spine on every inhale and lifting the chest and legs slightly higher on each exhale. If you feel pinching in the back, lower the chest and legs slightly.

Watch the video: How to do Locust Pose>>>

bridge pose

What it does: A deeper backbend than locust, bridge pose stretches the front side of the body, as well as the spine and the rib cage.

How to do it: Lie on your back with your arms by your side. Bend your knees and bring your heels close to your buttocks, with the feet about hip width apart. As you exhale, push your feet and arms into the floor and lift your hips toward the ceiling. Keep your thighs parallel as your lift. Interlace your fingers beneath your pelvis and stretch your arms toward your feet. To come out of the pose, release the hands and lower your hips slowly to the floor on an exhale.

How to get better: In the beginning, you may not be able to lift your hips very high. Instead of forcing it, focus on keeping the thighs parallel and stretching your tailbone toward your knees to lengthen the spine. With each inhale, lift a little higher. To keep the knees from spreading outward, hold a yoga block between your thighs while in the pose.

Watch the video: How to do Bridge Pose>>>

reclining big toe pose

What it does: One of the best yoga poses for stretching the hamstrings, it also stretches the hips, groin, and calves. Done properly, it will even strengthen the knees.

How to do it: Lie on your back. As you exhale, bend the left knee and pull it toward your chest. Keep the other leg pressed firmly onto the floor while pushing the right heel away from you. Hold a strap in both hands and loop it around the middle of your left foot. As you inhale, straighten your left leg slowly toward the ceiling. Move your hands up the strap until your arms are straight, while pressing your shoulders into the floor. Once your left leg is straight, engage the left thigh slightly and pull the foot toward your head to increase the stretch. Stay here for 1 to 3 minutes. Then lower the left leg slowly toward the ground, keeping the right thigh pressed into the floor. Continue until the left leg is a few inches off the floor. Work the foot forward until it is in line with your shoulders. Inhale your leg back to vertical. Lower the leg and repeat on the other side.

How to get better: When you extend the leg upwards, press the heel toward the ceiling. Once the leg is straight, engage the thigh slightly and lift up through the ball of the foot.

Watch the video: How to do Reclining Big Toe Pose>>>

Page Title: 
Yoga for Beginners and Best Yoga Poses for Men

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12 Crazy, Off-the-Wall Places to Have Sex

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MF asked women to share their most insane setting for sex ever. And while we can’t officially endorse the decision to get it on in these outrageous locations, we do encourage you to read this—and get some bust-out-of-the-bedroom inspiration.
Can you top these true life, off-the-wall stories? If not…use them as inspiration.
sexy couple in boat
“After getting out of a serious three-year relationship, I was ready for some adventure when I went on a family vacation to the Virgin Islands. I met a guy, and we would sneak off at night to ‘play’ where our parents couldn’t see us. I am not a swimmer, but I was brave enough to go out in a rowboat at night so we could be alone. Best move ever. I am 5’2” and he is 6’4”, so I’m still not sure how we managed to have sex without capsizing, but it was perfect. The secret nature of it all—coupled with the danger I felt— made the sex so hot.” —Dana, 22
couple kissing in elevator
“I went to Vegas with a guy I was dating, but we hadn’t hooked up yet. The first night, the tension was insane, so we headed back to his room—but we didn’t even make it upstairs. We got it on in the elevator! It was all well and good and exciting…until I remembered there are cameras in those things! No regrets, though. I’d do it all over again.”—Tammy, 23
couple kissing on rooftop
“My boyfriend and I were up on the roof of a fancy hotel for a party when we realized that a portion of it was blocked off by a row of potted plants. We moved them enough to sneak on through, then we had sex while 50 people were partying on the other side of the bushes. Who knows if anyone heard or saw us? We were way too distracted to care!”—Sarah, 30
swing set at night
“My guy and I once met up at a park after dark and did it on the swing set—hot!”—Cara, 25
couple on lifeguard stand
“Last summer, a guy friend and I went for a walk at night, and once we got to the beach, we both sprinted to the lifeguard stand and climbed up. We started talking, and then eventually he kissed me. One thing led to another, and the next thing you know, we’re having sex right there! It was a little tricky to navigate, but the spontaneous nature of it all made it pretty amazing.”—Steph, 24
couple kissing outdoors
“My guy and I had sex on a boulder, right up above a trail we were hiking during the day. Everywhere you looked, there was nothing but nature, and it was a thrill to know that someone could walk by at any minute. (They did—but they didn’t see us.)”—Jen, 26
couple hooking up in dressing room
“My guy is color blind, so I always go shopping with him when he needs to find business attire for work. He’s tall, blonde, blue-eyed, and fairly tan, so I picked out a smokey blue-gray shirt to go with gray pants, as well as a few other items. He came out in outfit number one, and I just couldn’t resist. He looked incredibly sexy, so I followed him back into the fitting room to help him undress…among other things. (And yes, we bought the clothes.)”—Nora, 32
surprised man alone in movie theater
“I am the kind of woman who—if the mood hits—that’s it. So one of my favorite random spots was in the back of the movie theater during a midnight showing. We were the only ones in the theater, and I couldn't keep my hands off of him. One thing lead to another, and before I knew it, he was bending me over the back of the row of seats and having his way with me. I’m getting all hot and bothered just thinking about it.”—Brynn, 29
ferris wheel
“My boyfriend was deployed for a year in Okinawa, so I took a trip to see him for a week. It had been so long since we had been together! When I got there, we went to an amusement park and got on the ferris wheel. I couldn’t keep my hands off of him, so we went for a ride on the ride…if you know what I mean. It was exhilarating just knowing that someone could see us! Best sex of the trip, hands down.”—Emily, 24
empty football stadium
“I went to a big state school with a huge football program, and the craziest place I ever had sex was in the middle of the field, right on top of the logo of our school mascot! We just snuck in late one night after a game. I'm not much of an exhibitionist, but I have to admit, it was a rush—and something we felt we needed to do before graduation. It’s definitely a night I will never forget.”—Jessie, 25
sexy couple in train window
“When I was 20, my boyfriend and I were traveling through Europe on the Eurail train. One night, we realized we were by ourselves in the carriage, so we just went for it. It was incredibly exciting and insanely hot. About a minute after we finished, the conductor came walking through. Close call!”—Katy, 27
truck towing motor home on open road
“We were in the back of his parents RV while it was being towed by his parents—doing it in a moving vehicle is definitely something I recommend! Our experience was cut short, though, when the RV got a flat, and his parents rushed back to make sure we were okay. What a memory!”—Tara, 22
Page Title: 
12 Crazy Hot Places to Have Sex Taken From Real Sex Stories

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Fit Travel: 20 Epic Adventures to Tackle in Your 20s

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Who said you have to be 65 and retired to see the world? The clock is ticking, so check some of these sweet trips off your bucket list before you’re 30.
Here are the sweetest trips every active man should take before he's 30.
man and woman on roadtrip
You’re young, in good shape, and you don’t have kids yet—really, there’s no better time to travel than now. So that’s why we scoped out the world’s best adventure trips to compile this top-20 list for guys just like you. Truth be told, some of these excursions are intense, demanding advance training, special gear, technical skills, a fat wallet, and a work sabbatical. But others, you’ll be pleased to find, require only a plane ticket, a minimal budget, and a little bit of white space on your calendar. Take your pick.

10 Death-Defying Stunts You Can Do on Vacation >>>

Mountain Bike Lake Tahoe’s Rim Trail
There’s no better rush than speeding down a single track on a mountain bike, and if you ask us, the High Sierra of California and Nevada is the place to do it. The 165 mile Rim Trail is a massive multi-use loop that links the high peaks surrounding Lake Tahoe. Roughly half the trail is open to mountain bikes, but some sections depend on the day of the week or season, so be sure to check the official maps and rules before setting off. Arrange trailhead rentals with The Flume Trail or with one of the ski and sports shops in the town of Lake Tahoe. ($45–55/day bike rental, $15 for a shuttle; tahoerimtrail.org)
Horseback riding through Patagonia
Ride horseback through the southernmost inhabited region in the world, and—just like the legendary solitary Patagonian gaucho—you’ll become part of this intense landscape of rugged mountains, valleys, and glaciers. The trip takes you from Punta Arenas to Hotel Salto Chico, in Torres del Paine National Park, with your hotel servings as your base camp for riding trips into the surrounding countryside. ($2780 per person for 5-day trip, price includes transfers, 3 meals, bar, and activities; explora.com)
Coffee Farms in Indonesia
If you’re a creative guy who appreciates a good organic cup of joe, Indonesia’s rural coffee bean farms are a must. Forest Voices, an eco-minded, fair trade organization, connects travelers and farmers in storytelling workshops. You’ll use writing, photography, and video to highlight the land’s different ecosystems and promote environmentally conscious farming. Though it’s not adrenaline pumping by any means, you’ll get a thrill from immersing yourself into the community and leaving a positive impact. Oh, and the coffee isn’t bad either. Next trip runs May 23-June 8. ($2455; forestvoices.org)
Outward Bound Wilderness Course
Nothing pushes you further beyond your mental and physical limits than an Outward Bound Wilderness expedition. It’s part survival course, part adventure vacation: group leaders take you and your crew into the wilderness where they teach trekking, sailing, and mountaineering skills. But aside from the physical stuff, you’ll build your character with activities that focus on compassion, teamwork and self-reliance. Whether you canoe the north woods in Maine, sea kayak in Baja, or dogsled in Alaska, you’ll return home a rejuvenated, stronger man. (Offered worldwide, variety of trip lengths and costs vary; outwardbound.org)
Ski the Haute Route
This difficult weeklong ski expedition covers the Haute Route (“high route), a well-traveled, well-marked trail two miles above sea level that stretches 110 miles across the Alps. It’s most famous for its spectacular mountain top views. You’ll zip through a couple mountain villages (a perfect place to stock up on hearty food) and you can sleep at small camping huts above the tree line along the way. Go in late March, April, or early May when the huts are open and the snowpack is perfect. ($2695 per skier; mountainschool.com)
Hunt Elk in New Mexico
Want to hunt big game in the high mountains? Head to Corkins Lodge near Chama, a small village in New Mexico and call local guide Peter Romero. He’ll take you out on 8,600 acres of land rising ranging between 8,000 and 11,000 feet above sea level, to the best spots to shoot. Archery season is in September, while rifle season is in October, so plan accordingly. ($4,000 for archery, $5,000 for rifle; 5 days, includes guide, food, lodging, permits; email Peter Romero: elkhunter_69@hotmail.com)
Spanish schools in Nicaragua
About 270 million people across the globe speak the Spanish language—and you can be one of them if you beef up your high school language skills with a full-immersion experience. Head to the Mariposa Spanish School, one of Nicaragua’s highest rated programs. A course includes 20 hours of personalized language instruction per week, room and board (either at the school or with a local family) and trips to local volcanoes, markets, and attractions. The school has a special 2-week study tour coming up in July. ($300/week includes room, board, and instruction; mariposaspanishschool.com)
Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre Belize
There is no surer way to get that once-in-a-lifetime Indiana Jones feeling than by swimming-wading-squeezing-crawling-hiking a half mile deep into the Aktun Tunichil Muknal in Belize. In the ATM caves, officials have left ancient bones, pots, and other artifacts in situ, instead of hauling them off to labs and museums. The crystal sepulchre is actually the full skeleton of 1000-year-old human sacrifice, covered in calcite crystals that sparkle in the light of your headlamp. ($110 day trip; $280 overnight; pacztours.net)
Boat Tour of the Amazon River
Want to tell your grandkids about the time you traveled by boat through the world’s largest river system and rainforest? Then hop a plane to Manaus, Brazil, and book a spot on Swallows and Amazon’s river tour of the Amazon and Negro Rivers. You’ll visit Anavilhanas Archipelago National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003), canoe up wild tributaries, visit a Caboclo River indigenous village, and go piranha fishing and alligator hunting. Choose between river boat (hammock-style) or houseboat (plush air-conditioned cabins). ($1595–$1895 per person for 6-day trip, all-inclusive; swallowsandamazonstours.com)
The Skeleton Coast of Namibia
First, there’s the standard safari in Tanzania, Kenya, or South Africa, where most wildlife-seeking travelers head—and then there’s Namibia. This region, inaccessible to travelers until recently, is one of southern Africa’s remotest spots. For a week, Evergreen Escapes lays out one active adventure after another—track elephants and endangered Black Rhinos through the desert on foot, visit the world’s tallest sand dunes, meet indigenous tribes, and more. ($3,160 for 7 days; evergreenescapes.com)
Wilderness in Ecuador
For a fitness-oriented trip with an eco-positive spin, go to Cotopaxi National Park and the Condor Biosphere with Adventure Life, a Quito-based environmental voluntourism company. This 5-day group service project in Ecuador’s highlands combines activities like trail work, mountain biking, horseback riding, and tree planting. (Basically, you get to preserve nature and do cool extreme sports at the same time.) And if 5 days sounds too short, sign up for a 3-day service project extension, which will take you into rural schools or back out on the trails. ($930; adventure-life.com)
Climb Huayna Potosi in Bolivia
Every bucket list should include a high peak, so how about Huayna Potosi, which stands at 20,000 feet—a mile higher than anything in the continental United States? Located in the Cordillera Real, Huayna Potosi requires crampons and ice axes but not too much extensive technical mountaineering experience beyond those basic pieces of equipment. The standard route is a straightforward glacier climb and there are tons guided trips out of La Paz, just 15 miles away. Plan for time to acclimate to the altitude, plus three days for the summit climb and return trip ($400 for 3-day trip; bolivianmountainguides.com)
Jungle Survival Course in Central America
How are your wilderness survival skills? Find out in the Rio Indio Maiz Biological Reserve, the largest virgin lowland rainforest north of the Amazon. In Managua, Nicaragua, you’ll fly a 12-passenger La Costeña plane to Greytown, in the southeast corner of the country. Once there, join ex-Special Forces jungle survival specialists for three days in the bush where they’ll teach you how to find fire, water, shelter, and food. You’ll also take classes on hunting, fishing, and trapping in the jungle. ($2,150 for 7-day program; bushmaster-survival-school.com)
Heli-Skiing in Alaska
This must be Alaska’s version of luxury “surf ‘n turf.” Chugach Powder Guides’ 5-day “Kings & Corn” trip in late June features heli-skiing in the Tordrillo Mountains of the Alaska Range and helicopter-assisted king salmon fishing and rafting in the Skwentna river system. The package includes flow plane transport from Anchorage to Winterlake Lodge, private chef, and champion guides. ($9,500 per person; chugachpowderguides.com)
Trek to Machu Picchu via the Sacred Valley
This alternative route to the mountaintop ruins of Machu Picchu runs on centuries-old walking paths between villages, and is far less traveled than the classic Inca Trail so there will be fewer people. You’ll hike the rugged route for six hours a day at altitude, crossing passes over 14,000 feet. The best part of this 10-day trip is the chance to visit Cachiccata and other small mountain villages, where service projects have helped locals establish campgrounds, creating jobs for young people. ($2625, 10-day trip; adventure-life.com)
Row a Viking Ship in Norway
As a nod to your inner warrior, head to the Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg, Norway. Check out the recreated Viking village, learn to throw axes and shoot arrows, then jump into the replica of a Gokstad Viking ship—it has a rowing bench with your name on it. Boats depart daily from Gokstad’s boathouse (a 20-minute walk from the Chieftain’s House) from June to August. It’s only a 30-minute experience, but you’ll quickly learn to keep pace with your oar, just like the Vikings did. (Museum entrance $24 includes boat trip; lofotr.no)
Pushkar Camel Fair in India
If you think you’ve seen it all, you haven’t — not until you’ve been to the Pushkar Camel Fair. This 5-day livestock fair in Rajasthan, northern India, is a good way to get a taste for Indian culture: check out the bridal competition, moustache contest, and cricket tournament. Arrive by bus or train a few days before the full moon of Kartik in the Hindu calendar (October or November), when the fair starts. Once there, you can score a luxury tent at Camp Bliss and eat traditional food onsite. ($337 per night, includes all meals; pushkarcamelfair.com)
Llama Trek the Rocky Mountains
Everyone should take at least one hike in the giant, snow-capped Rocky Mountains—and why not let a sturdy, exotic, and personable pack animal carry your gear? On a guided backcountry llama trekking trip, you’ll discover one of the grandest mountain playgrounds in the world. Camp out in tents or sleep in the cabins and lodges of the 10th Mountain Division Hut System, a legendary network of rustic accommodations in Colorado’s high country. You’ll hike stunning sections of the Colorado Trail, right beneath the Continental Divide. ($1198 for 3-day llama trek; paragonguides.com)
Hike the Camino de Santiago in Spain
It’s a hell of a long walk, but it’s worth it. Join dedicated trekkers from all over the world as they take on up to 400 miles of trail that winds through the Pyrenees Mountains in northern Spain and southern France. Hikers have been walking this pass since the Medieval Age, with the ultimate goal of reaching the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, the end of the Christian pilgrimage. Depending on how fast you go and where you start, it can take up to 5-6 months. Watch the 2010 film The Way, starring Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez, for inspiration. Go independently with a solid map (it’s well marked), or take a 12-day section hike with On Foot in Spain tour providers if you’re pressed for time. ($3,524; onfootinspain.com)
Roadtrip Across America
You could road trip across any country, but for drastic variety—from barbeque in South Carolina to jazz in Louisiana to surfing in California—keep it close to home. Driving across America, the age-old rite of passage, works best when you have a couple of months to spare and can take your leisurely little time. Our advice? Don’t plan too much—just sketch out a general loop on a big map and go with the flow. For starters, check out Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America's Two-Lane Highways by Jamie Jensen, who suggests 11 different cross-country routes. ($14; amazon.com)
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The 10 Most Important WWE Divas Ever

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Looking back at the 10 most athletic, seductive, and impactful WWE Divas in history.
Looking back at the 10 most athletic, seductive, and impactful WWE Divas in history.
Female wrester
In the late 1990s, a new type of WWE superstar emerged. Gone were the days of female performers who primarily stood by their men without ever getting into the ring. Instead, this new crop of females, quickly dubbed Divas, not only rocked a bikini, but also ushered in a new smash-mouth era that continues to this day. Strong, athletic, and sexy, these ladies turned up the heat every time they appeared on screen and many of them went on to make a significant impact on pop culture. We've compiled a list of the 10 most important Divas in WWE history.

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The Bella Twins Walk To Ring
It's well-known that twins share a special, unbreakable bond. Who are we to break that bond? The Bellas are the only twin sisters in WWE history to have ever held championships. The duo is famous for their twin magic antics: Whenever one of the sisters gets into trouble during a match, they seamlessly trade places while the referee isn't looking. With the fresh twin resuming the match, wins soon follow.
Torrie Wilson Fights in WWE Ring
Fresh off winning a Miss Galaxy fitness competition, Torrie Wilson made her debut in 1999 and was immediately placed into WCW's top storyline featuring Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan. In 2001, Wilson entered WWE and soon found herself on countless magazine covers and making numerous TV appearances, including on the NBC reality show, I'm a Celebrity... Get Me out of Here! Presently, Wilson is dating New York Yankee, Alex Rodriguez.
Kelly Kelly Jumps on Opponent in Ring
It's been said that Kelly Kelly is so nice they named her twice. Kelly made her debut in 2006 and quickly became a fan favorite. And, this connection with the WWE Universe paid off big. In June 2011, based on fan voting, she received a Divas title match and went on to capture her only championship. Kelly has appeared on numerous magazine covers and has made various TV appearances including as a Price is Right model.
Lita Flips Opponent
Following a stint in ECW, Lita joined the WWE and was originally paired with Essa Rios. From there, she aligned herself with the Hardy Boys and then their rival, Edge. With her distinctive red hair and tattoos, it wouldn't be long before she'd break out on her own. Lita is one of only two women to ever compete in a Monday Night Raw Divas singles main event. In less than eight years she won four WWE Women's championships.
Maryse Leans on Ropes
A former Miss Hawaiian Tropic Canada model, Maryse was the second woman eliminated in the 2006 Diva Search. However, the Canadian native whose mother tongue is actually French wasn't deterred and eventually went on to manage and become a two time Divas champion of distinction. She currently holds the record for the longest Divas championship reign (216 days) in history. Maryse is engaged to current WWE superstar The Miz.
Mickie James Wins
As a five-time WWE Women's champion and one-time Divas champion, James trails only Trish Stratus for most female WWE championships ever. James initially debuted in Stratus' corner. The two went on to have one of the most compelling Diva storylines featuring stellar championship contests throughout 2006. In 2010, James threw her cowboy hat into a completely different ring when she released her first country music album on iTunes.
Sable Waves to Audience
A former Guess? model, Sable debuted on Triple H's arm at WrestleMania XII. From there, she went on to manage then-husband, Marc Mero. But, it wasn't long before she entered the ring herself. She captured her only Women's championship at Survivor Series 1998. By the end of the decade, Sable was making appearances on various magazine covers and TV shows. She's currently married to WWE superstar and former UFC champion, Brock Lesnar.

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Michelle McCool Throws Opponent
While unsuccessful in her attempt to win the 2004 WWE Diva Search, McCool would not be denied. In less than seven years, she became a two-time Women's champion and two-time Divas champion. McCool, the inaugural Divas champion, also partnered with Layla to form arguably the best-known female tag team in recent history, LayCool. In 2011, she lost a Loser Leaves WWE match to her former tag partner, Layla.
Stacy Kiebler Stands in Ring
The current girlfriend of Hollywood heavyweight, George Clooney, has come a long way since winning the 1999 WCW Nitro Girl competition. What Keibler may have lacked in technical skills, she more than made up for with sheer star presence -- not to mention her 41 1/2 inch legs. In 2006, Keibler placed third on ABC's Dancing with the Stars. She's also made sitcom appearances on such shows as George Lopez and How I Met Your Mother.
Trish Stratus
Stratus, an actress and reality TV veteran, is the record setting seven-time WWE Women's champion. She first burst onto the scene as a manager. After an on-screen relationship with Vince McMahon, Stratus found her true calling as a wrestler. In 2006, in front of an emotional hometown crowd, she retired following her record-setting championship victory. On April 6th, 2013, Stratus becomes the first wrestler to debut in the 2000s and enter the WWE Hall of Fame.
Page Title: 
Women Wrestlers in WWE Wrestling

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