Ashleigh Gleeson

National Health Editor

In the name of research last week I dragged myself out of bed early to go to pilates classes.

Although my muscles felt a bit sore afterwards I’m glad I did.

A typical pilates devotee might make you think of a woman in activewear, but this week we delve into how more and more men are turning to this this low-impact exercise method.

I certainly noticed guys of all ages in some of the classes I went to.

Some are choosing to go with their wives and then loving it.

But even AFL and NRL sports stars are fans.

If you haven’t given pilates a go, then we have you covered with this simple routine you can try in your own home – no equipment needed.

It might surprise you how hard some of the moves are.

Meanwhile I wanted to say a huge thanks to everyone who got in touch about their own heartbreaking experiences in aged care off the back of the overwhelming response we got to this piece.

Deputy National Health Editor Tamara McDonald has been keeping a close eye on all the aged care breaches across Australia since the launch of our new health section, and this is the latest round to be aware of.

We see it as a huge privilege that you trust us with your stories – so please don’t hesitate to contact us at health@news.com.au.

Have a great week.

Three stories to read today

A quick pilates routine you can try at home

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Never tried pilates? If you’re looking for a quick, no-equipment routine to do at home, here are four simple moves that offer maximum benefit.

The foods to avoid if you’ve got high blood pressure

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If you’ve got high blood pressure these are the food and drinks to steer clear of. See the list.

Revealed: Australia’s 45 healthiest places to live

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These are the places where people are living up to eight years longer than the national average and are less prone to diabetes and heart disease.

In focus

Having lived with dementia for several years, I can share that one of my greatest concerns is not my memory loss, but my inability to have a good night’s sleep.

Read how Ann Pietsch brings meaning to her life despite Lewy body dementia

To help you out right now

Five fitness apps to try now

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Millions of Australians are using health-related apps in a bid to boost their fitness goals and improve their overall quality of life. We take a look at the pros and cons of some.

Cheap easy eats: Six ways to save cash and stay healthy

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From this “superstar” food to stock up on, to which aisle you need to avoid in the supermarket, dietitians have revealed how to eat healthily without breaking the bank.

Know your nuts! What to eat for your health

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Research shows that 50g of walnuts for breakfast can boost memory. These are the other health benefits of nuts and seeds.

Eating and exercise

#1 Surprising items that contain gluten – can they make coeliacs sick? - Everyone knows bread and pasta are a nightmare for those with coeliac disease, but did you know these products are too?

#2 Can’t find your fitness groove? Try the viral 3-2-8 method - Looking for a way to effortlessly combine your favourite training styles? We’ve got the perfect schedule for you.

#3 How I lost 30kg so I could have life-saving surgery - David Fardon needed a kidney transplant, but his high BMI increased his risk of surgery. He started taking a weight loss drug.

Psychiatrist Pat McGorry's six mental health tips

Hear from one of our experts every Tuesday.

Patrick McGorry AO is a high-profile psychiatrist and professor of youth mental health. This week he shares his six tips on how to navigate the mental health system.

Train your Brain

In which decade were Air Jordan shoes first introduced?

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The Chase Australia’s official Shark, Brydon Coverdale, has created a new daily quiz challenge. How’s your general knowledge? Take his quiz.

What we're cooking

Matt Preston's mushroom stroganoff

Vegetarian | Serves 4

This recipe uses an array of healthy mushrooms and involves a very creative way of cooking them for maximum flavour.

Read the method and ingredients needed to whip this up yourself, here.