Latest news with #beginners
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Personal Trainer Shares the 2-Day Workout Plan That Helps Beginner Lifters Make Big Gains
When you're just starting out in the gym, it can be tempting to jump into a six-days-a-week program like your favorite fitness influencers. But between learning how to train properly and giving your body enough time (and fuel) to recover, you probably need way less time in the gym than you think. While chasing that post-workout high might make you want to show up every day, it's not the most effective approach for a beginner. In an interview with longevity specialist Peter Attia, M.D., exercise scientist Mike Israetel, Ph.D., broke down the exact two-day workout plan he uses to help newbie lifters make big gains. 'If you're training twice a week—let's call it Monday and Thursday for simplicity—you do want some symmetry,' Israetel says. 'So you don't want a situation where you train with weights Monday and Tuesday, and then you take the rest of the week to do other stuff.'If you're only working out two days a week, you need to make every session count. Bro splits—where you target one or two muscle groups at a time—might work if you're training five or six days, but with limited time, they're not your friend. That's why full-body workouts are the move. They hit all your major muscle groups and give you the most bang for your buck. "If you push them hard, maybe at most half a week, you can train every major muscle group of your body in every single session that you do," Israetel says. "So both Monday and Thursday, we'll have every major muscle group being trained." Because you're only training twice a week, Israetel says you need exercises that hit more than one muscle at a time. So skip the calf raises and focus on compound lifts like barbell back squats, deadlifts, and bench press—they deliver way more return for your effort. "Then we're using muscles very efficiently because we're pushing multiple muscles to their limits in one exercise," he adds. "This is generally going to be compound movements, multi-joint movements—things like pullups, pull downs, barbell and dumbbell bent-over rows." Personal Trainer Shares the 2-Day Workout Plan That Helps Beginner Lifters Make Big Gains first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 13, 2025
Geeky Gadgets
12-06-2025
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
10 Excel Formula Symbols You Wish You Knew Years Ago
Have you ever stared at an Excel spreadsheet, overwhelmed by its complexity, and thought, 'There must be a better way to do this'? You're not alone. Despite being one of the most widely used tools for data management, many of Excel's most powerful features remain hidden behind a wall of unfamiliar symbols and syntax. The truth is, mastering just a handful of these formula symbols can transform the way you work—saving hours of frustration and unlocking new levels of precision. Imagine effortlessly calculating trends, merging messy datasets, or building dynamic reports with just a few keystrokes. It's not magic—it's the power of Excel formula symbols, and once you understand them, you'll wonder how you ever managed without them. In this guide, My Online Training Hub uncovers the ten essential Excel formula symbols that can transform your workflow. From the equals sign that kickstarts every formula to the ampersand that simplifies text manipulation, each symbol serves a unique purpose in streamlining your tasks. You'll learn how to use these tools to tackle everything from basic arithmetic to advanced calculations, all while reducing errors and improving efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned analyst or an Excel beginner, these symbols hold the key to working smarter, not harder. As you explore their practical applications, you may find yourself rethinking the way you approach spreadsheets altogether. Essential Excel Formula Symbols The Most Common Excel Formula Symbols and Their Functions To unlock Excel's full potential, it is crucial to understand its formula symbols. These symbols form the foundation of calculations, logical operations, and data manipulation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the most commonly used symbols and their primary functions: = (Equals): This symbol is the starting point of every formula. It signals to Excel that what follows is a formula, not plain text. This symbol is the starting point of every formula. It signals to Excel that what follows is a formula, not plain text. + (Plus): Used for addition, this symbol allows you to sum numbers or cell values with ease. Used for addition, this symbol allows you to sum numbers or cell values with ease. – (Minus): Subtraction is performed using this symbol, allowing you to calculate differences between values efficiently. Subtraction is performed using this symbol, allowing you to calculate differences between values efficiently. * (Asterisk): The asterisk represents multiplication, essential for scaling values or combining datasets. The asterisk represents multiplication, essential for scaling values or combining datasets. / (Forward Slash): Division is denoted by the forward slash, making it useful for calculating ratios or proportions. Division is denoted by the forward slash, making it useful for calculating ratios or proportions. ^ (Caret): The caret is used for exponential calculations, such as raising numbers to a specific power. The caret is used for exponential calculations, such as raising numbers to a specific power. & (Ampersand): This symbol concatenates, or combines, text strings from different cells into one, simplifying text manipulation. This symbol concatenates, or combines, text strings from different cells into one, simplifying text manipulation. , (Comma): Commas separate arguments in functions, making sure clarity and proper execution of formulas. Commas separate arguments in functions, making sure clarity and proper execution of formulas. : (Colon): The colon defines ranges of cells, such as A1:A10, which is crucial for applying functions across multiple cells. The colon defines ranges of cells, such as A1:A10, which is crucial for applying functions across multiple cells. () (Parentheses): Parentheses group parts of formulas, controlling the order of operations and making sure accurate results. Practical Applications of Excel Formula Symbols Each of these symbols plays a vital role in simplifying Excel workflows. For example, the equals sign is the gateway to all formulas, whether you're calculating monthly expenses or analyzing sales trends. The plus and minus symbols handle basic arithmetic, while the asterisk and forward slash are indispensable for financial modeling, statistical computations, and other advanced tasks. The caret symbol is particularly valuable for advanced calculations, such as determining compound interest or performing scientific analyses. Meanwhile, the ampersand streamlines text manipulation, making it easy to merge names, addresses, or other data from multiple columns into a single cell. The colon and parentheses ensure precision, especially when working with large datasets or complex equations. For instance, when calculating the total sales for a specific range of products, the colon allows you to define the range of cells, such as A1:A10, while parentheses ensure the correct order of operations. These symbols work together to deliver accurate and efficient results. 10 Excel Formula Symbols You Need to Know Watch this video on YouTube. Unlock more potential in Excel formulas by reading previous articles we have written. Enhancing Accuracy and Efficiency Understanding how to use these symbols effectively can significantly reduce errors and save time. Parentheses, for example, ensure that Excel calculates formulas in the correct order, preventing mistakes in complex equations. Similarly, the colon simplifies the process of applying functions like SUM or AVERAGE to large datasets, eliminating the need for manual calculations. Combining symbols can unlock even greater functionality. For example, pairing the ampersand with text functions like LEFT or RIGHT allows you to extract and merge specific parts of a string. This is particularly useful for cleaning up messy data, creating custom reports, or preparing datasets for analysis. Mastering Formula Syntax for Better Results Formula syntax refers to the structure and arrangement of symbols, functions, and arguments within a formula. A clear understanding of syntax is essential for building accurate and efficient formulas. For example, the formula =SUM(A1:A10) uses the equals sign to initiate the calculation, the SUM function to add values, and the colon to define the range. Errors in formulas often stem from incorrect syntax, such as missing commas, mismatched parentheses, or improperly defined ranges. Paying attention to these details ensures that your formulas work as intended, saving you from time-consuming troubleshooting. By mastering syntax, you can confidently tackle even the most complex calculations. Streamlining Your Workflow with Excel Formula Symbols Incorporating these symbols into your daily Excel tasks can dramatically improve your productivity. Whether you're managing budgets, analyzing trends, or preparing detailed reports, these tools empower you to handle complex tasks with confidence and precision. By mastering Excel's formula symbols, you can work smarter, reduce errors, and streamline your processes. These symbols are not just technical tools—they are the building blocks of efficient spreadsheet management. Understanding their functions and applications allows you to unlock Excel's full potential, simplify your workflows, and achieve greater accuracy. Start applying these symbols in your formulas today to experience their fantastic impact on your day-to-day tasks. Media Credit: MyOnlineTrainingHub Filed Under: Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. 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Fast Company
19-05-2025
- Fast Company
Four free Coursera courses to jump-start your AI journey
Artificial intelligence: it's not just for tech experts anymore. Instead, a heaping helping of free online resources has emerged. These classes are specifically designed to welcome beginners into the world of AI, even if they possess little or no prior technical background. I selected these Coursera courses for their beginner-friendly approach, high ratings, and comprehensive coverage of foundational concepts and key AI domains. AI For Everyone If you're taking your very first steps into AI, ' AI For Everyone ' on Coursera is a great starting point. The course requires no prior experience in AI or programming, making it truly accessible to everyone, and it's got a reasonable completion time of around six hours. The curriculum is structured into four modules: What is AI?, Building AI Projects, Building AI in Your Company, and AI and Society. Google AI Essentials Another good starting point for your AI journey is the ' Google AI Essentials ' course. It offers a unique perspective on Google's AI philosophy and features hands-on activities and real-world scenarios. Similar to 'AI For Everyone' mentioned above, 'Google AI Essentials' is designed to be accessible to individuals of all skill levels. The six-hour course is structured into five modules: Introduction to AI, Maximize Productivity With AI Tools, Discover the Art of Prompting, Use AI Responsibly, and Stay Ahead of the AI Curve. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence For a slightly more structured and in-depth introduction to the foundational concepts of AI, the ' Introduction to Artificial Intelligence ' course offered by IBM on Coursera is an excellent option. This 12-hour course aims to equip beginners with a solid understanding of core AI concepts, and incorporates videos, readings, assignments, and even hands-on labs. The curriculum is divided into four modules that cover a range of essential topics: Introduction and Applications of AI; AI Concepts, Terminology, and Application Domains; Business and Career Transformation Through AI; and Issues, Concerns, and Ethical Considerations. Introduction to Generative AI Don't have 6–12 hours to get up to speed with the aforementioned courses? Skip right to the good stuff with the ' Introduction to Generative AI ' course, which offers an overview of . . . well, what most people are referring to when they mention AI nowadays (whether they realize it or not). The course defines generative AI, explains its underlying mechanisms, describes the different types of generative AI models, and discusses how the technology is used in the real world. It's worth noting that this course is part of a larger 'Introduction to Generative AI Learning Path Specialization,' so if you find the topic particularly engaging, you'll be able to keep the good times rolling with additional courses.
Forbes
17-05-2025
- Sport
- Forbes
The Best Golf Clubs For Beginners, According To Golf Pros
Arnold Palmer, Tiger Woods, Annika Sörenstam—every great golfer was once a beginner, learning the basics as they picked up their first set of clubs. If you're ready to take that first swing, we've got you covered with the best golf clubs for beginners, based on expert-backed recommendations. According to the pros we spoke with, the Callaway Edge 10-Piece Club Set stands out as the best set for beginners, offering performance and forgiveness in one sleek package. And for those on the lookout for value that doesn't sacrifice quality, the Top Flite XL 13-Piece Complete Set is another great option. A set of beginner golf clubs makes it easier to learn and enjoy the game. As tempting as it may be to buy cheap clubs, doing so can establish bad habits and take the fun out of those first few rounds. 'Golf is a journey, not a race—start with clubs that help you enjoy every step,' says Julieta Stack, an LGPA professional and director of instruction at the Baltimore Golf Academy. Whether you're a youngster, a senior or somewhere in between, we've rounded up the best beginner golf clubs to help you come out swinging and start hitting shots with confidence. Amazon Club count: 10 | Shaft material: Graphite | Flex: Stiff | Bag included: No | Left hand available: No The Callaway clubs that make up this 10-piece Edge set are true winners. The set has all the sticks an amateur golfer could possibly need, including an Edge Driver with a huge titanium head and deep center of gravity that sends balls flying off the tee and soaring toward the green. Six, seven, eight and nine irons, along with a few woods, give you plenty of choice as you close in on the cup, and of course there are wedges and a putter tossed in for good measure. While the set doesn't come with a bag, you can usually pick one up secondhand and save some money. 'The one set I suggest most, and I have no affiliation, is the Callaway Edge,' says Justan Johnson, PGA associate and golf instructor at Troon Golf Administration. 'This set offers 10 clubs, driver to putter, and you have all the clubs you'll need for a beginner or intermediate golfer. You can keep it for a while and not have to purchase an upgrade set like you would once you outgrow your starter set.' Keep in mind these clubs are on the stiffer side, which can be a deterrent to some novice golfers who prefer a more flexible shaft and forgiving face. That said, many experts advise using stiff clubs even as you learn because you won't have to replace them down the road as you get better. Dick's Sporting Goods Club count: 11 | Shaft material: Graphite/steel | Flex: Regular, senior | Bag included: Yes | Left hand available: Yes If you want a complete set of golf clubs and don't want to spend much cash, this set from Top Flite is a real ace. While the most fully-stocked golf bag have 14 clubs, experts agree that most new golfers won't use nearly that many. 'Newer golfers typically use five to seven clubs per round,' says Johnson, so this 11-piece set will certainly suffice. (It's called a 13-piece set because of the included bag and club covers.) The driver is made from a composite titanium material and measures a whopping 460 cubic centimeters—the largest driver size allowed by the USGA,. And it's a size that ensures maximum connectivity and power delivery. Plus, it's a size most new golfers prefer. Once you're on the green, you'll appreciate the visual markers etched into the putter that help you line the head up for a clean, well-aimed tap. And as you move between holes, you'll take full advantage of the bag's many pockets and its broad carrying strap. You won't get hundreds of rounds out of these clubs—they're just not as durable as beginner sets that cost twice as much. But if you want to hit the course with your own set and give golf a try, this is a smart buy. Callaway Club count: 6 | Shaft material: Graphite | Flex: Light | Bag included: Yes | Left hand available: Yes Any woman looking to hit the course with top-quality gear in hand should choose clubs specifically designed for female athletes, and this Callaway set fits the bill perfectly. It features a flexible driver shaft, irons tailored to match the average female swing speed and a putter inspired by insights from LPGA pros. Essentially, it's a set built to help women succeed on the course. 'My students have almost exclusively been women, and keeping that in mind, I cannot recommend the Callaway Women's Reva complete set more highly,' says golf instructor Douglas Bennink of 'This set gives the beginner golfer the confidence to move from the practice range to the course in one fell swoop.' It's worth mentioning there are just six clubs in this set, which is sufficient for most golfers but hardly ample, and it isn't a cheap set either. Still, if you find yourself in need of a club as your game levels up, you can simply add it to the mix—these grow with you, so there's no need to replace them as you get better. Dick's Sporting Goods Club count: 10 | Shaft material: Graphite, steel | Flex: Stiff, regular | Bag included: Yes | Left hand available: Yes Callaway's XR line is specifically aimed at mid-to-high handicappers looking for distance and easy-to-hit clubs. It's not a cheap set, but if you're struggling to improve your score, you'll want to get your hands on top-notch clubs designed to be forgiving and easy to use. Callaway's XR irons in particular are well-suited for high handicappers because they are designed as game-improvement irons, offering features like a large sweet spot, forgiving face technology and a high launch trajectory. All of these factors make them easy to use, help you get the ball in the air and down the fairway with more reliability, each and every swing. The fairway woods are also designed with forgiveness in mind, featuring a channel that helps send a ball straight down the line even after an off-center hit. And the massive 460cc driver will help you gain extra yardage off the tee. Finally, a putter designed for precision and control will help you inch closer to—and someday below—par. Again, these clubs are on the expensive side for a beginner set, but if you've been out on the links enough times to know you need better gear, go ahead and treat yourself. Amazon Club count: 7 | Shaft material: Graphite | Flex: Regular | Bag included: Yes | Left hand available: Yes This set from Tour Edge is available in different sizes for different age ranges, including kids three to six, five to eight, seven to 10, nine to 12 and 11 to 14, so no matter how young your aspiring golfer may be, you can match them with a set that fits just right. There are the seven classic clubs needed to constitute a complete set here, including a driver with a 350cc head—a great size for young players. Meanwhile, the irons have oversized heads with extra large sweet spots that make it easier to strike the ball with accuracy. The included golf bag has plenty of pockets and a built-in stand, and it features a dual-strap carry system that helps evenly distribute the weight. The driver isn't all that durable, as evidenced by several verified buyers who reported signs of damage with moderate use, so if you have a young golfer who seems committed to the hobby, consider leveling up. Otherwise, this is a fantastic set that helps them learn the basics without burning a hole in your pocket. Amazon Club count: 12 | Shaft material: Graphite | Flex: Senior | Bag included: Yes | Left hand available: No The 'senior' golf club flex is specifically designed for older golfers with swing speeds between 70 and 85 miles per hour. It offers a good balance of flexibility and weight, making it easier to generate club speed and send the ball a good distance. And of course, it's the exact flex you'll find in this 12-club set from Tour Edge. The total number of clubs means you can always choose the best tool for the shot at hand, whether you're teeing off, halfway down the fairway or digging your ball out of a bunker. Many golfers who have used these Bazooka clubs call them forgiving and comfortable, though we do have to flag that among the many five-star reviews, several people reported breaking the heads off their irons during normal play. Obviously, this isn't what you want to see when you shell out $600 for a new set, but these occurrences are rare, and Tour Edge offers a lifetime warranty on its clubs for added peace of mind. The gear team at Forbes Vetted conducts thorough research before recommending products to our readers. We read scores of customer reviews, cross-reference brand claims with online comments and speak to experts with extensive subject knowledge. Golf is one of the more intimidating sports to pick up because it requires a certain level of commitment. Sourcing all the gear, booking a tee time, learning the jargon and making mistakes on the course are all a part of the process. That's why we've chosen the best golf clubs for beginners based on factors like shaft flex, head size, club selection and more, so you can spend less time worrying about your equipment and more time enjoying the process. You don't need a 14-club set to get out there and start working on your golf game, but you do need a basic assortment of options. 'I always suggest purchasing a new set that contains at least a driver, three wood, hybrid, five iron, seven iron, nine iron, pitching wedge and putter,' says Johnson. With that said, many pros are also comfortable recommending a seven-club set, though Johnson adds that eight-club sets truly provide "all the clubs you'll need for a beginner or intermediate golfer.' It's imperative that you invest in golf clubs suitable for your body. 'Get clubs that fit you,' says Stack. 'If you are above or below average height, it's worth getting a basic fitting or selecting clubs labeled as 'long' or 'petite' to better match your body type." Clubs of the right height can drastically impact and improve your game. Golf club 'flex' refers to the degree of bend—or lack thereof—in a golf club's shaft. This affects how much the shaft bends during a swing, influencing factors like club head speed, distance and accuracy. Shafts are categorized by flex with options ranging from extra stiff (X) to ladies flex (L). Stiffer clubs are faster and hit harder, but they're generally considered harder to control and better-suited for experienced golfers. Steel shafts are strong and stiff, albeit heavy, delivering power and speed to the ball when handled well. Graphite club shafts are much lighter in weight and allow for fast swings with reduced effort, but they don't deliver as much power. Composite shafts, usually made of a blend of both materials, fall somewhere in the middle, balancing speed and power.
UAE Moments
15-05-2025
- Health
- UAE Moments
How to Start Meditating (Even if You Think You Can't)
Meditation can seem intimidating if your mind won't sit still. But the truth is, you don't need to be a monk or sit cross-legged for hours. This guide on How to Start Meditating (Even if You Think You Can't) makes it simple for anyone—even total beginners—to begin reaping the benefits. Steps on How to Start Meditating (Even if You Think You Can't) Starting a meditation practice doesn't require special skills or spiritual knowledge. It's just about taking a few quiet moments to reconnect with yourself. Here are 10 practical steps to begin, no matter how 'bad' you think you are at meditating. 1. Start with Just 2 Minutes You don't need to meditate for an hour to feel the benefits. Begin with just 2 minutes. Short sessions are less daunting and help you ease into the habit without pressure or overwhelm. Read More: How Meditation Improves Quality Of Life 2. Choose a Comfortable Position You don't have to sit cross-legged. Sit in a chair, lie down, or even stand—whatever feels natural. Comfort helps you focus better, so your body isn't a distraction while your mind settles. 3. Focus on Your Breath Your breath is your anchor. Simply observe your inhales and exhales. Don't try to change it—just notice it. This basic practice helps center your mind and brings you into the present moment. 4. Don't Fight Your Thoughts Thoughts will come, and that's okay. Don't try to block them. Just notice them and gently return your focus to your breath. This process builds mindfulness, not frustration. 5. Use a Guided Meditation App Apps like Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer provide voice-led sessions that walk you through the process. They're perfect for beginners who aren't sure where to start or what to do. 6. Pick a Consistent Time and Space Routine builds the habit. Try meditating first thing in the morning or before bed in a quiet, familiar space. A consistent setting trains your brain to settle faster each time. 7. Try Body Scan Meditation Body scans help you tune into physical sensations. Mentally move through your body from head to toe, noticing tension or warmth. It's a great way to calm your mind through awareness of the body. 8. Set Realistic Expectations Don't expect instant calm or complete silence. Meditation isn't about achieving a blank mind—it's about noticing what's happening without judgment. Progress comes slowly, with regular practice. 9. Be Patient with Yourself Some days will be harder than others. That's normal. Approach your practice with kindness and curiosity instead of criticism. Every session, no matter how scattered, still counts. 10. Keep Showing Up Daily Consistency beats intensity. A few minutes every day is better than one long session a week. Over time, daily practice builds calm, clarity, and resilience that last beyond the cushion. Learning How to Start Meditating (Even if You Think You Can't) is all about simplicity, patience, and practice. You don't need to do it perfectly—you just need to begin. Even a few quiet minutes each day can bring powerful shifts in your stress, focus, and inner peace. Just show up, and let the rest unfold.
