BETTER FAT BURNING Sipping green tea between workout sessions may help pounds drop off faster, researchers at the University of Birmingham in England find. Exercisers who consumed the equivalent of 3.5 cups of the decaf kind with breakfast, and again with lunch and dinner before cycling for 30 minutes burned 17 percent more fat than those given placebos. Scientists say compounds in the tea
may help convert flab to fuel; even a cup a day can support slimming.
-Self
TAP WATER: DON'T LIKE IT HOT Whether you’re quenching your thirst or prepping a meal, make sure to draw water from the cold tap. Hot water is likely to contain higher levels of lead, says the EPA, because it dissolves the toxic metal in plumbing more quickly than cold water does. If you haven’t turned on the faucet for six hours or more, let it run cold for a minute before using, the agency advises—and use only water filters bearing a seal from NSF International, a company that certifies the products’ lead-removing abilities.
-Prevention
RUNNING OFF THE GRID Less impact, no traffic, pretty scenery—it’s no wonder 4.4 million Americans are off-roading it. But rough terrain can slow you down, so plan to run for time, not distance. Other best practices: Look for a well-traveled trail. You’ll find options in every state at trailrunner.com. “Pack a map and check for landmarks to help you find the way back,” says Nancy Hobbs, founder/executive director of the American Trail Running Association. Run with a friend or your dog. If that isn’t possible, at least carry your cell phone, says Hobbs, and tell someone where you’re headed and when you
expect to return. Be prepared. Bring water and wear trail-running shoes. “They typically have better stability, more lateral support and better traction than road-running shoes,” says Hobbs. If you run near water, look for a water-resistant pair. For trails with varying terrain, choose a shoe with added stability; pick a more lightweight, breathable style for flat paths. And if you run and hike, try a multisport shoe that wears well on road and trail.
-Fitness
KEEP IT CLEAN Working in a messy workspace drags you down. At least once or twice a day, take the time to declutter the most disorganized areas on your desk and in your work area.
