Meal prepping allows you to plan and portion out meals in advance, which can save time, reduce stress, and promote healthier eating habits. While plastic containers have long been a popular choice, glass storage containers offer a more sustainable, safer alternative. Here’s a look at the top five safest glass storage containers for meal prep that can help you keep your food fresh and ready to go. Why You Should Start Meal Prepping Today Meal prepping has become a trendy health habit, but it’s a fantastic way to improve your overall well-being. By prepping your meals in advance, you can take control of your diet, ensuring you have nutritious, balanced meals ready to go throughout the week. This can help you avoid the temptation of unhealthy fast food or last-minute choices. It’s a great way to manage your portions, which is beneficial for weight management and maintaining a balanced diet. Beyond the health benefits, meal prepping can save you a significant amount of time and money. By planning and cooking in bulk, you reduce the daily stress of deciding what to eat, freeing up time for other activities. It also helps you stick to a budget, as you can buy ingredients in larger quantities — often for cheaper — and reduce food waste by using everything you purchase. Some families can save up to $500 on groceries each month by planning meals. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, save time or manage your budget better, meal prepping is a smart, sustainable practice. Top 5 Safest Glass Storage Containers  When it comes to meal prep, safety is just as important as convenience. Glass storage containers are a great choice because they don’t leach harmful chemicals into your food and are more environmentally friendly than plastic alternatives. Choosing good-quality glass containers keeps your food fresh and makes cleanup easier. Here are the top five glass containers for your meal-prepping needs. Pyrex Simply Store Meal Prep Glass Containers Thanks to its high-quality glassware, Pyrex is a household name, and the Simply Store line lives up to its reputation. These containers are made from durable tempered glass that can withstand sudden temperature changes, making them safe to use in the oven, microwave, freezer and dishwasher. The airtight lids ensure your meals stay fresh for longer periods. From yogurt parfaits and trail mix to pasta dishes, the various sizes mean you can store all your favorites. They’re available in sets of five, eight, nine, 12, 14 and 16, perfect for larger families and those who live alone. The BPA-free lids make the Simple Store range one of the safest glass storage containers, plus they stack easily for efficient storage. While the containers themselves are oven-safe, the lids are not, so avoid heating up your meals with them still on. Get it on Amazon for $40.96  Glasslock 20-Piece Assorted Container Set  The Glasslock 20-piece set offers a comprehensive collection of glass containers in different shapes and sizes, ideal for any meal prep situation. The snap-lock lids are airtight and have a leak-proof seal, keeping your food fresh and secure, even on the go. Their eco-friendly, BPA-free glass is stain and odor-resistant, so they’re ideal for tomato-based foods and soups. This Glasslock set is freezer, microwave and dishwasher safe, and you can even pop it in the air fryer. Made with TEMPERMAX technology, these containers are shatterproof, so you don’t need to worry about frequent replacements. Get it on Amazon for $54.99 OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Glass Container Set OXO is well-known for its thoughtful design, and the Good Grips Smart Seal set is no exception. These containers feature four locking tabs that create a secure, leak-proof seal, making them ideal for transporting your meals to work, school or the gym. They are made from borosilicate glass, which is resistant to thermal shock, so they can go straight from the freezer to the oven without risk of shattering. This multipurpose set is fantastic for meal preppers who love easy-to-use containers that can handle sudden temperature changes. The silicon seal is simple to remove and easy to clean. The lids, however, aren’t oven-safe, so it’s best to remove them before reheating your food. Get it on Amazon for $55.95 Anchor Hocking TrueSeal Glass Food Storage Containers Anchor Hocking’s TrueSeal range is a budget-friendly yet high-quality option for avid meal preppers. The TrueSeal lids provide an airtight seal, perfect for keeping your meals fresh throughout the week. Being BPA-free means your food stays free from harmful chemicals, making them one of the safest glass storage containers. This set is best for budget-conscious individuals who don’t want to compromise on quality. On the downside, the lids can be a hassle to clean, but they’re easy enough to pop in the dishwasher. Meanwhile, the thick, durable glass is stain- and odor-resistant, as well as microwave-, oven- and dishwasher-safe. Get it on Amazon for $32.56 Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Containers Prep Naturals is another great affordable meal prep option. Designed specifically for meal prepping, each container features portion control compartments, making it easy to separate your proteins, carbs and veggies. The dishes are made from high-quality borosilicate glass, and the snap-lock lids ensure no leakage while you go about your day. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to maintain a balanced diet while keeping their meals organized. If you eat bigger portions, the compartments may not be big enough. However, they can be great for packing an assortment of snacks for the office or gym. Get it on Amazon for $34.99 Meal Prepping Hacks Getting started with meal prep can be a game-changer for your routine, but knowing a few key strategies can make the process even more efficient and enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your meal prep sessions: Begin with prepping just a few meals or snacks for the week to avoid feeling overwhelmed. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually increase the amount of food you prepare. Take some time each week to plan your meals and create a grocery list. This helps you stay organized and ensures you always have the ingredients you need. Prepare large portions of staple foods like grains, proteins and vegetables to mix and match throughout the week. This saves time and gives you a bit more flexibility in your meals. To keep salad veggies fresh, wash and thoroughly dry them in a salad spinner and keep any dressings on the bottom of the container rather than adding them on top. Aim for a balance of proteins, healthy fats and carbs in each meal to keep your nutrition on track. Including a variety of vegetables adds nutrients and flavor. Identify your busiest days and prep meals that are easy to grab and go. Salads, overnight oats, chia pudding, rice bowls and pasta dishes can be lifesavers on hectic days. Don’t be afraid to swap ingredients or change up recipes based on what you have on hand. Meal prepping is about making life easier, not creating more stress. Simplify Your Schedule Choosing the right glass storage containers for meal prep can significantly improve your routine. Whether you prioritize durability, leak-proofing or portion control, there’s sure to be a container on this list that suits your needs.  Living a healthier lifestyle takes more than just grabbing random ingredients on the way out the door. Meal prepping can make your mornings less stressful and help you reach those health and fitness goals. Give these glass meal prep containers a try and save time, money and energy on those extra busy days.

Your body changes with pregnancy, but you don’t necessarily have to give up your favorite activities. The right must-have maternity workout clothes for every trimester provide the support you need to keep moving.  Exercising during pregnancy improves circulation and muscle tone and prepares your body for labor and delivery. Here’s what to add to your shopping cart.  1. CRZ Over-the-Belly Yoga Bike Shorts With Pockets Pockets are as critical as the elastic maternity belly these shorts feature. Keep your phone at your fingertips when walking or jogging, and enjoy the super high-rise waist that stays in place without rolling.  $26.00 at Amazon. 2. Amposh Over-the-Belly Capri Yoga Pants  Look slick in those in-between season days in these pocketed capris. The breathable, moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool and covered. Order a convenient 2-pack — wear one and wash the other.  $19.99 at Amazon. 3. Minmaxmum Maternity Flare Leggings Go from the elliptical to the office without missing a beat. These flare-legged yoga pants with stretchy belly fit your form for freedom of movement while providing the style of casual pants.  $19.98 at Amazon. 4. FitGlam Women’s Maternity Tank Tops  A side-ruching waist is another maternity necessity. These FitGlam tops grow as you do and come in multiple colors packaged in convenient multipacks for all your gym needs.  $38.99 at Amazon. 5. Glampunch Women’s Short Sleeve Maternity Workout Shirt If you prefer sleeves, this ruched-side top is for you. It also features a curved hem for additional coverage and a moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool through sweaty workouts.  $15.99 from Amazon. 6. OYOANGLE Split-Hem Short-Sleeve Tunic Do you need a comfy top to throw on over your sports bra that won’t get in the way of your belly? This basic short-sleeve oversized tunic is perfect for transitioning from the yoga studio to running errands. It matches over jeans as effortlessly as leggings, making it a versatile favorite.  $18.99 from Amazon. 7. DeBelly Long Sleeved Maternity Shirt With Pocket Mama has to stay warm when heading out for a walk on brisk autumn mornings. This long-sleeved maternity shirt features ruched sides, a generous pocket and zippered front, giving you maximum control over your neckline.  $21.99 from Amazon 8. Ginkana Maternity Athletic Jacket Here’s a longer light jacket you’ll love as much for Saturday soccer practice as hitting the gym. The utility side pockets provide storage, and the soft fabric feels heavenly against your skin.  $24.99 from Amazon. 9. Lofbaz Women’s Harem Yoga Sweatpants Harem pants are the ultimate in comfort. The adjustable elastic waistband grows with your belly or sits comfortably atop your bump. The loose, flowy pants are perfect for strolling on the beach or sinking into a yummy Yin yoga class.  $23.99 from Amazon. 10. MomCozy Maternity Nursing Sports Bra Your breasts change during pregnancy, and even mamas who didn’t need much support beyond a built-in shelf previously often find they need sturdier coverage. This maternity nursing sports bra provides extra coverage as your milk comes in and features a clip for easy breastfeeding.  $34.99 from Amazon. Maternity Workout Clothes Exercising through pregnancy supports the health of you and your baby. Do so in style with these maternity workout clothes for every trimester. 

Are you ready to kick your workout up a notch? The best powerlifting straps increase your grip and let you take your lifting to new heights.  Resistance training is one of the primary components of a regular fitness program. The right gear protects you from injury while helping you get the most out of each sweat session. Best of all, powerlifting straps aren’t pricey, making them an easy addition to nearly anyone’s gym bag. The Many Benefits of Lifting Weights  Lifting weights isn’t necessarily about looking like Arnold Schwarzenegger back in his bodybuilding days. While you can certainly build bulging biceps if that’s your goal, resistance training is integral to health. The U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend working all major muscle groups at least twice weekly, and exercise researcher Dr. Tommy Lundberg, author of “The Physiology of Resistance Training,” explains why.  According to Dr. Lundberg, resistance training may improve blood glucose control, which is increasingly crucial. Nearly 100 million Americans are at risk for Type 2 diabetes, often without knowing it. Additionally, regular weight training may reduce the risk of many chronic diseases and is the only way to safeguard your muscular strength against the ravages of age. Otherwise, your strength decreases over time, with a dramatic loss between ages 70 and 80.   How Do Wrist Straps Help You Lift More Weight? Weightlifting straps are the gym safety device you didn’t know you needed. They wrap securely around your wrists and a barbell, preventing it from slipping out of your hands. Even a 5-pound dumbbell can break a bone if you drop it on your foot the wrong way, and the danger increases the heavier you go. Even the best sneakers struggle to protect your toes against a 100-pound barbell.  However, many weightlifters pick up these devices for the extra oomph they provide in the weight room. These nifty gadgets help you maintain proper form, keeping your wrists in the correct alignment to prevent injury or aggravating conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.  They can even assist with combining cardio and weights for a one-two punch. According to the CDC, you need at least 150 minutes a week of activity that gets your ticker pumping, and going heavier with your weights elevates your heart rate. They’re ideal for folks who don’t have much time and need to coordinate their efforts to meet all their fitness goals in one short workout.  11 Best Powerlifting Straps  Add these powerlifting straps to your shopping list and pick them up the next time you buy online. Their affordable price point makes them a must-have, even if you aren’t looking to compete on Muscle Beach.  1. Gymreapers Gymreapers recently increased the length of its powerlifting straps, making them even better at supporting your wrists and improving your grip ability. Wrap them two to three times around the bar for ultimate security. They come in nine colors, including one unpadded version for those who cry, “We don’t need no stinking cushioning.”  $14.99 from Amazon 2. DMoose  Express your wild side with DMoose powerlifting wrist straps. They’re suitable for both men and women and come with a silicon grip to keep you from slipping and sliding when things get sweaty. Patriots will love the American flag design, although they also come in basic black and army green.  $13.99 from Amazon 3. Harbinger  Finding a bargain doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or safety. Harbingers are among the best powerlifting straps, thanks to their Neotek cushioned wrist that ensures superior comfort. The reinforced edges prevent fraying and are tough enough to handle any workout.  $9.46 from Amazon  4. Tuffwraps  Tuffwraps have a solid reputation among the weightlifting set. These powerlifting straps feature belt loop tightening that lets you control compression and tension better than a thumb loop. They’re also more secure, which is helpful if you like to go heavy on back day.  $19.99 from Amazon 5. Rip Toned Rip Toned wrist wraps offer superior support, making them an excellent choice for those with carpal tunnel syndrome or weak wrists prone to injury. They’re stiff and allow very little flexibility, which may be just what the doctor ordered. They feature a lifetime warranty and come in single and dual sets — make them a gift for you and your gym day BFF.  $18.99 from Amazon 6. Gasp Gym  Gasp Gym wrist straps offer the perfect balance between length and width for ultimate flexibility in the gym. Their simple loop closure makes them tighten without effort. The premium cotton blend enhances your comfort, while the durable stitching ensures they hold up through the heaviest shrugs and deadlifts.  $13.90 from Amazon 7. RDX  RDX wrist straps come in 11 fashionable colors for men and women, making them perfect if you like to coordinate your gym gear. However, they don’t sacrifice toughness for style. They feature Neoprene padding and 100% cotton stitching for distributing pressure evenly and increasing security during heavy lifts.  $9.99 from Amazon 8. KKH KKH straps stand apart for their glove styling and leather material. They blanket you from the wrist to the base of your fingers, preventing sweat from making you lose your grip. The attached strap provides additional support while keeping your wrists in alignment.  $14.99 from Amazon 9. SKDK  SKDK may offer the widest array of colors and designs to let you express your unique style and personality in the gym. With 24 options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits you. Their resistance pads protect your wrists from injury, while the nonslip silicone prevents slippage.  $9.96 from Amazon 10. RitFit  If blisters often plague you, add RitFit to your list. These powerlifting straps feature a 7.1-inch by 3.2-inch Neoprene foam pad to keep your wrists soft and injury-free. The extended strap length wraps around the bar several times, increasing your sense of security.  $12.58 from Amazon 11. Warm Body, Cold Mind  When you hit the gym, you want your muscles warm and your mind cool and focused. These wrist straps help you accomplish that by easing your fears of slippage while maximizing your strength. The world’s top athletes inspired these powerlifting straps, and they were designed by an Olympic powerlifter, so you know they’ll give your workout a boost. $16.99 from Amazon Best Powerlifting Straps  Adding the best powerlifting straps to your gym bag can increase your sense of security when lifting heavy weights, giving you the confidence to go hard. They also protect you from injury, keeping you training instead of sitting on the DL.  Wrist supports are an affordable must-have for anyone interested in maintaining good health through a regular resistance training routine. Take action to protect your wrists today with the best powerlifting straps.  Be sure to share this post on social media if you found it helpful.

Natural yoga mat materials are more popular than ever. Yoga is a great way to connect with the environment around you, especially when you do it in nature. However, if you want to live more sustainably, you may not realize how your yoga mat could impact the environment. Yoga is an exercise practice that focuses on your body’s natural inclination toward health and healing. The practice has many physical and mental health benefits, including increasing flexibility and decreasing stress levels. Many yoga mats are partially or unsustainable, with materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is terrible for the environment. Thankfully, there are yoga mats made of sustainable materials that you can feel good about using. Here are the top five natural yoga mat materials and some items you should consider adding to your arsenal. 1. Natural Rubber Natural rubber is a plant-based polymer first documented in 1600 BC MesoAmerica. Manufacturers still use natural rubber today, which derives from the latex in plant ducts. Natural rubber is durable and flexible like synthetic rubber, making it an excellent material for your yoga mat. It is an excellent, sustainable option that doesn’t sacrifice the strength and comfort you expect. UMINEUX Extra Thick Yoga Mat This non-slip and eco-friendly yoga mat is made of natural rubber and recyclable thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) to ensure a secure grip even during sweaty outdoor sessions. It has 10mm thickness, providing extra comfort and cushioning for your hands, elbows and knees. This yoga mat also features a reversible textured design so $53.97 on Amazon 2. Cork When you think of cork, you may think of wine bottles, but cork is a great sustainable material for various products, including yoga mats. Cork forms on the outer bark of the cork oak tree, and its ease of access allowed ancient civilizations to use it for fishing and sealing wine bottles. The material works excellently in yoga mats because it’s flexible and non-slip. It also doesn’t absorb moisture or dust, making it an excellent material for outdoor yoga. Premium Yoga Cork Mat This yoga mat is made using cork and natural tree rubber. It’s sweat-resistant, antimicrobial and 100% biodegradable, making it perfect for environmentally friendly individuals. This item provides great grip and traction, as it becomes more slip-resistant when wet. It’s ideal for hot yoga, a type of yoga class that requires you to practice poses in a studio heated to between 80-100 degrees Fahrenheit. The extra heat makes you sweat more, and the moisture-wicking properties of cork can help you stay $54.97 on Amazon 3. Hemp Hemp is a sustainable fiber from the cannabis plant and a flexible material that’s suitable for various products, including yoga mats. It’s one of the strongest natural fibers and is resistant to mold, mildew, and UV light, making it great for various yoga scenarios. The cannabis plant is a sustainable low-impact crop, making hemp a great choice. The material is also biodegradable, giving it a minimal environmental impact. KHUSI Organic Hemp Extra Thick Yoga Mat This lightweight yet quality mat is made with pure raw wild hemp and fine hemp cotton, which helps protect your joints during your yoga practice. The middle layer of the mat is layered with natural wool to provide extra cushioning, making it ideal for various purposes, such as outdoor sleeping or a car pillow. Khusi organic yoga mat also comes with a long carrying strap so you can carry your yoga mat anywhere you go.  $125 on Amazon 4. Organic Cotton Organic cotton is a soft, sustainable yoga mat material, making it another excellent indoor yoga option. Certified organic cotton comes from plants that are sustainable even in the ground. Organic cotton plants take in carbon dioxide from the air and store it in the soil below, eliminating greenhouse gases from the air. Once harvested, the cotton can be woven into various long-lasting biodegradable materials like yoga mats. Handmade Organic Cotton Yoga Mat Using this handmade cotton mat will give you peace of mind, knowing that it doesn’t harm the environment. The cotton fabric has natural cooling properties, making your practice more comfortable. It’s created by artisans in rural areas of India, providing them with jobs and improving their social and economic status. When you buy this product, you’re helping the environment and the locals. $69.99 on Amazon 5. Jute Jute is a grass fiber similar to hemp that creates durable and sustainable yoga mats. Its fabric is more commonly known as burlap and is very textured. While you may not consider burlap the most comfortable material, it works well in yoga mats when fashioned correctly. Jute is also long-lasting and biodegradable, making it a sustainable source for your yoga mat. Gaiam Jute Yoga Mat A jute yoga mat might not be your first choice when buying a mat. However, when your main priority is the planet, you’ll love the benefits of this purchase. The Gaiam yoga mat is made from all-natural jute with non-slip features that are non-latex, non-toxic and silicone-free. It’s durable and lightweight, making it ideal when you’re always on the go. The sustainable materials are also moisture-wicking, so use the mat during your hot yoga sessions.  $48.83 on Amazon Choosing the Right Sustainable Yoga Mat When looking for a sustainable yoga mat, choose one that is beneficial for your practice. If you prefer restorative yoga, you’ll likely prefer a thicker, softer mat. A thinner, sturdier mat might be right if you want more stability for your poses. However, if you value sustainability without compromising comfort, you can opt for an organic mat with extra thickness. Considering all your wants and needs will make you feel satisfied with your sustainable yoga mat purchase. Practicing Sustainable Yoga With the benefits yoga offers, it’s a worthwhile exercise for almost anyone – but you don’t want to use a yoga mat that harms the environment. Natural yoga mat materials are a great way to practice yoga sustainably and feel good about your body and daily choices. Original Publish Date 8/18/2022 — Updated 05/28/2024

What gear do your feet wear when you hit the gym? The type you choose could impact your performance and go a long way toward keeping you off the dreaded DL. What are the best weightlifting shoes for your unique soles? We’ve got you covered with this guide to 11 of the best brands and why they’re worth the investment. Why Invest in Weightlifting Shoes?  It’s chest and triceps day. What does it matter what you wear on your feet? You quickly find out the first time a dumbbell strikes your pinky toe — even a 5-pounder can do considerable damage, shattering bone.  Weightlifting shoes alone won’t protect you from a 100-pound barbell falling from height, but they will give you the quick agility you need to move out of the way without slipping and sliding. They provide enhanced grip, even on sweat-slick surfaces. Some styles lend additional ankle support, useful when doing balancing moves like standing heel raises or single-leg deadlifts. .  Any model you choose will protect you from the yucky germs that coat such floors — plantar warts, ringworm and even staph can lurk and latch onto bare feet. They can also prevent foot deformities that take you out of the game by providing supportive cushioning, especially if you mix a little HIIT-style cardio into your weight room mix.  What to Look for in Weightlifting Shoes The characteristics that make the best weightlifting shoes are as unique as your feet. One approach is to visit a retail store and have your feet measured by a professional. Another idea? Consult with your sports trainer or family physician for suggestions, as they may have advanced training in foot biomechanics.  Once you find the best brand of weightlifting shoes for you, shop online for the lowest prices. Many retailers and manufacturers offer discounts for repeat purchases — get rewarded for your loyalty. Although shoes can have stricter rules regarding trying before buying, asking yourself the following questions can help you nail the right pair the first time:  Do I have any special problems to address? For example, high arches, bunions or flat feet?  Am I prone to connective tissue injury? For example, plantar fasciitis is common among the gym set, and you have over 30 ligaments in your feet and three major tendons.  How is my balance? Do my ankles tend to wobble, requiring additional support?  What type of surface do I typically work out on? Harder surfaces, like concrete, necessitate stronger cushioning. Otherwise, shock can travel up your legs and cause injuries to your knees or hips. Consider all of these factors in conjunction with each other to select the best weightlifting shoes for you. For example, a weightlifter who is also a runner with knee osteoarthritis may seek cushioning — but not too much.  According to Dr. Najia Shakoor, MD, a rheumatologist and professor at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, too much arch support can detract from the pronation you need for a more natural range of motion. Finding the right amount of lift when you have high arches and bad knees is priceless.  Professional advice is best when selecting new shoes, but few people keep an orthopedic surgeon on speed dial. That’s okay — we’ve got you covered with this review of 11 of the best weightlifting shoes that can help narrow your search for the perfect pair.  11 of the Best Weightlifting Shoes  Add a pair of these weightlifting shoes to your shopping list/  1. Adidas Unisex Adult Powerlift  Plenty of folks recognize the classic triple line that marks Adidas shoes, as this footwear adorns the feet of some of the world’s top athletes. With comparable styling for men and women and six colors to choose from, you’ll find a pair that matches your favorite gym wardrobe.  More importantly, these best weightlifting shoes feature a rubber outsole with superior grip. The canvas uppers include mesh inserts to allow superior breathability that decreases sweat and odor. Adidas also uses at least 50% recycled materials, helping you tread more lightly on the planet.  $96.09 from Amazon 2. CastIron Lift  A name like Castiron Lift implies ruggedness, and this manufacturer focuses on gear for the weight room and Crossfit. The easy velcro straps make them a snap to take on and off, perfect if you’re the sort who can’t wait to doff your dog covers and let your feet breathe after leaving the gym.  The anti-slip outsoles make them perfect for preventing injury during high-intensity training. The black microfiber and fabric provide breathability while providing the ideal backdrop for the stylish gold or teal detailing.  $99.99 from Amazon 3. Nordic Lifting  Powerlifting aficionados will adore Nordic Lifting shoes specially designed for your heaviest lifting days. The raised 1.4-inch heel optimizes your power when performing squats and lunges.  Nordic Lifting designs these best weightlifting shoes with Olympic-level stability for a powerful workout. They’re perfect for athletes who need extra strength to feel secure as they push past new personal records.  $99.88 from Amazon 4. M Manuklear  M Manuklear uses a signature combination of laces and magic tape straps for a locked-in fit that offers superior stability. The reinforced chassis and widened, raised heels ensure you won’t slip even under the heaviest weights.  This company also takes sustainability seriously. They manufacture their shoes from rubber, TPU and Oxford cloth. TPU is more eco-friendly than many other plastics as it is recyclable and doesn’t release harmful toxins when exposed to heat.  $79.98 from Amazon 5. RXN If your busy lifestyle takes you directly from the gym to the country club to engage in casual business meetings with the alligator shirt-wearing set, RXN is the best weightlifting shoe for you. Their sleek, casual styling dresses up a polo perfectly when they aren’t keeping your grip on the weight room floor. Don’t hesitate at their white coloring — they’re machine washable, making them a snap to keep looking new.  $59.98 from Amazon 6. Under Armour  The Under Armour brand has risen in popularity among pro footballers, and you know those guys spend some heavy time in the weight room. The warp upper technology keeps your feet locked down during dynamic moves to prevent injury.  The unique TriBase maximizes your foot’s contact with the ground, further solidifying your stance beneath heavy barbells. The micro G foam midsole offers the ultimate in responsive cushioning.  $114.84 from Amazon 7. KCross  Bees are amazing creatures, making honey to soothe sore throats and pollinating crops so humans can eat. They also designed one of nature’s toughest structures, the honeycomb, with impressive tensile strength to hold up to pressure. KCross borrows this styling from the bees to create a shoe with increased stability for your feet when lifting heavy weights. This brand also offers superior arch support through its power bridge design.  $69.99 from Amazon 8. Reebok If you want to be seen, opt for the bright red version of these best weightlifting shoes and make a stylish splash at the gym. The squish won’t come in the form of sweat, however, as the anti-friction lining Reebok uses wicks away sweat. The Powerbax TPU plate supports your feet without putting undue pressure on your arches.  $70.82 from Amazon 9. Core  With a non-slip EVA wedge and midsole strap, Core designed these weightlifting shoes to cradle your feet during tough lifts. Their lightweight design makes them useful for cross-training, letting you hop on the elliptical to get your cardio between sets. The elevated 1.2-inch sole promotes proper posture in the weight room.  $79.90 from Amazon 10. Osterland  For electrifying styling, look to Osterland. The microfiber and fabric uppers offer breathability while featuring a spotted design that showcases your style without showing dirt. The velcro strap wraps around your entire foot, providing stability while making these easy to take on and off, and anti-slip soles help you keep your grip.  $79.99 from Amazon 11. Aleader  Instead of training barefoot and exposing yourself to heaven-only-knows-what germs, opt for these minimalist best weightlifting shoes from Aleader. They resemble socks but consist of anti-slip rubber to prevent slips during heavy lifts. The wide toe box lets you spread out your feet and increase your stability. These shoes do double duty, taking you from the weight room to the studio, where they keep you from sliding off the mat during sweaty hot yoga sessions.  $19.99 from Amazon  Best Weightlifting Shoes  Finding the best weightlifting shoes can significantly increase your performance. They prevent injury and provide stability during heavy lifting. The right pair can correct slight imbalances and deformities, making your workout more comfortable and effective.  Did you find this post helpful? Please share it on your social media to help others find the best weightlifting shoes. 

Adding protein to your diet should be a to-do on your checklist if you're serious about achieving your fitness goals. It improves health and athletic performance and boosts muscle recovery after a vigorous workout. Whey protein is the go-to for health buffs. However, if you're lactose intolerant or want to incorporate various macronutrient sources into your diet, discover these nine alternatives to whey protein. Why Incorporate Proteins Into Your Routine The body has thousands of different types of protein to support organs, muscles, bones, tissues, skin, hair and overall function. Due to its broad uses, the USDA advises that 10%-35% of your daily calories come from this macronutrient.  The body can create proteins from amino acids or the ingredient molecules used to make them. Why do you still need to include them in your diet? Unfortunately, you can't make nine essential amino acids out of the 20 kinds to build proteins. You can only obtain them by eating foods rich in these compounds.  Proteins support your metabolism, grow and repair damaged tissue, and help your body cope with the stress of an exhausting fitness activity. You can include nine alternatives to whey protein as part of your balanced diet. Plant-Based Proteins According to the USDA, women should aim for 46 grams of protein daily and men should consume 56. It may be hard to meet these daily requirements if you follow a plant-based diet, which calls for supplementation. Here are the best options for vegan or vegetarian gym fanatics. 1. Soy Protein Soy products are a top choice for plant-based protein supplements. Tofu, tempeh, natto and miso are the first things that come to mind. Soy foods are as healthy as whey and have a robust nutritional profile. They contain vitamins and minerals, like magnesium, zinc, iron and calcium, and pack massive amounts of protein per serving. Try it and feel the difference in your strength and performance.  $15.52 from Amazon 2. Pea Protein  Pea protein powder is another plant-based substitute for whey. You'll likely find three options when searching for this alternative: Pea protein isolate is ideal if you're trying to lose weight. Pea protein concentrate is perfect if you want to bulk up and include more carbs in your diet. Textured pea protein is preferred for those trying to eliminate meat in their meals. A 100-calorie scoop of pea powder weighing about 27 grams contains 21 grams of protein, making it the best partner in your fitness journey. $22.99 from Amazon 3. Rice Protein People know rice as a carb source instead of protein. However, it's as healthful as whey in giving your body nutrients, minus the skin rash if you're allergic to dairy. A cup of cooked brown rice packs 5.5 grams of protein, which is 10% of the daily value requirement of a person weighing 140 pounds. While it doesn't contain all nine essential amino acids the body needs, it's one of the best options if you're looking for a plant-based substitute. $20.89 from Amazon Dairy-Based Proteins Dairy is synonymous with protein, making whey the go-to of many fitness enthusiasts. If you don’t have food restrictions but want alternatives to whey protein, here are your top choices. 4. Greek Yogurt Greek yogurt is an excellent post-workout breakfast or snack. It's chock full of nutrients like selenium, calcium and B12, so including it in your after-training nutrition can benefit your body greatly.  A 7-ounce serving of low-fat variety is loaded with 20 grams of protein and 18% of your daily value needs for calcium to build strong bones and support your fitness goals. It also contains potassium, zinc, and vitamins A and B. A yogurt bowl after a challenging workout will surely invigorate your body. $14.99 from Amazon 5. Cottage Cheese Cottage cheese is your best bet if you want a protein that melts in your mouth. Chefs love its creamy, mild and hearty texture, which makes it a versatile ingredient in many dishes. To meet your daily protein requirement, add cottage cheese to pudding, spread it on toast or top it on salads. A half cup of low-fat cottage cheese has 12 grams of protein, 5 grams of carbohydrates and only 90 calories. Like other dairy products, it can help boost bone health, develop muscles and support the gut. $6.99 from Amazon 6. Milk Protein Isolate This macronutrient combines 80% casein and 20% whey proteins and is sourced from skim milk powder. It's a good option if you don't want to completely skip whey but add another protein variety for a neutral flavor. It's at least 90% protein and packs 25 grams in every 30-gram scoop. Moreover, it's a good source of branched-chain amino acids, helping the muscles recover and grow. Try it in a wholesome protein shake with fruits as a post-workout reward for your hard work. $37.99 from Amazon Animal-Based Proteins Proteins sourced from animal products like meat, milk and cheese tend to have a higher macronutrient count. To modify your usual diet, consider these alternatives to whey protein. 7. Casein Protein Casein protein is the most popular alternative for whey since it's also sourced from milk. Both contain all the nine essential amino acids the body needs, but the difference lies in how they're digested. Whey is broken down and absorbed in only 20 minutes, allowing you to reap the benefits of your training faster. Meanwhile, the body processes casein more slowly — proteins are synthesized about three to four hours after ingestion.  Casein is the best option if you're trying to lose weight. It makes you feel full longer, helping curb late-night hunger or cravings. Many love its creamy texture. Try the chocolate or vanilla flavor and see if it suits your taste.  $80.69 from Amazon 8. Egg White Protein Whole eggs are a healthy protein source, but stick to egg whites for a low-calorie diet to achieve your goal of being lean. Yolks contain 180 milligrams of cholesterol, which you may want to avoid to lower your lipid profile. Whole eggs have 4.5 grams of fat, 70 calories and 6 grams of protein.  On the other hand, egg whites have zero fat and cholesterol, pack only 20 calories and contain 4 grams of protein. Removing the yolks makes eggs healthier and more nutritionally abundant. Try it if you want to switch up your protein source.  $26.45 from Amazon 9. Collagen Protein Collagen is a form of protein found in bones, muscles, skin and tendons. The body can produce it, but aging slows the production, prompting many to turn to supplements to increase their internal nutrient levels.  Conventionally, people get collagen from fish, dairy, eggs and meat. Protein powder offers a more convenient way to access this macronutrient. When buying, choose a product with branched-chain amino acids to boost exercise performance and muscle growth. Enjoy it in your smoothie, coffee, shake and other homemade recipes.  $26.45 from Amazon Try These Alternatives to Whey Protein Your muscles work hard and are torn during exercise. Incorporating these healthy protein substitutes into your diet helps with faster recovery so you're ready for your next training session. Combine any of these plant- or animal-based options with regular activity to promote muscle growth and achieve your fitness goals.  Did you find this article helpful? Share it on X.