Sneak a Peek at Carrie Underwood’s New Activewear Line

Why Your Flexibility Stalls

As though going through puberty weren’t enough of a struggle, it’s also the time when you start to lose your natural flexibility. “No one is more flexible in their life than they are as a child,” says Dr. Leython Williams, a doctor of physical therapy at Athletico Physical Therapy. “However, during puberty, children often become temporarily less flexible. Some children have slow growth spurts, while others grow very quickly. This temporary decrease in muscle length/flexibility is a result of their bones growing faster than their muscles and tendons can stretch.”

Note that Dr. Williams refers to this particular loss of flexibility as temporary — meaning we can’t blame puberty for the fact our toes seem to be getting farther away every time we try to touch them.

“There is no specific age when we wake up and our flexibility has ‘officially declined.’ However, it is a fact that as we age our flexibility decreases, which leads to decreased functional ability and mobility,” he explains. “As our bodies get older, we lose a small amount of flexibility as a result of the normal aging processes. There is loss of water in our tissues and intervertebral discs, increased stiffness in our joints, and a loss of elasticity in muscles and tendons. In our 20s and 30s, it is important that we develop a consistent static and dynamic stretching regimen to establish and maintain flexibility and range of motion more easily into our older years.”

That’s right: What you do now matters later. And this isn’t just about keeping up in yoga, Dr. Williams cautions. “It becomes imperative that we stretch regularly to decrease our likelihood of various injuries.” Jill Belland, co-founder of Barre Belle, agrees. “It’s easy to feel invincible if you’re young and injury free! Flexibility will reduce your risk of injury: What doesn’t bend will break. Increased range of motion, balance, and mobility are all linked to flexibility and contribute to overall strength and fitness.”

How to Get It Back

When you’re a kid, flexibility comes naturally; when you’re an adult, you have to take responsibility for improving and maintaining it. “Peak flexibility age for adults can differ person to person and depends largely on their physical activity habits,” says Dr. Rachelle Reed, PhD, Pure Barre’s manager of training development and barre kinesiologist. “Notably, flexibility can be improved at any age when flexibility training is incorporated into a regular exercise routine. It’s important for adults to be strategic about including flexibility training into their workouts, because maintaining flexibility and physical function as we move into middle and older adulthood is associated with better quality of life and independent living.”

There’s no one flexibility standard everyone has to meet, Belland reassures: “There is no golden rule for what perfect flexibility is person to person, but there are simple markers such as touching your toes from a forward fold for hamstrings/lower back, or reaching for your hands behind your back, with one hand behind the head and the other behind the waist, for shoulder mobility. You don’t need to be a contortionist; moving around with fluidity in your everyday life and having good range of motion in your favorite activities without feeling pain or tension is a better way to gauge your own personal goals.”

But where do you start if you want to improve your flexibility? Dr. Reed explains, “There are two main types of flexibility training that you should aim to incorporate into your routine: Dynamic stretching, where a stretch is performed by moving through a challenging but attainable range of motion several times in a row, and static stretching, where a stretch is held in a challenging but attainable position for a longer period of time (at least 10-30 seconds).”

How do you know how far to go? “Our muscles have a natural stretch reflex that prevents us from going too far into a stretch, which can also cause injury,” Belland tells us. “Aim to gently stretch through this reflex. The key to increasing flexibility is about time under tension: It takes around 20 seconds to ease through the stretch reflex. Reintroduce the stretch and hold it for 10 seconds longer, working up to one minute. The second time you introduce a stretch, the stretch reflex will diminish, allowing your body to get deeper into your stretch and also building better muscle memory.”

If you’re still worried about injuring yourself — especially if you’ve been injured in the past — Dr. Williams recommends seeing a physical therapist for guided stretches. Belland reminds us that you don’t have to go to the gym or spend hours on stretching. “Stretch a little bit every day when you can fit it in after a workout or in front of the TV. If you just don’t think you’ll stretch on your own, getting to a yoga or a barre class is helpful if you need the accountability of a dedicated time and space.”

Speaking of the gym, just as your phys ed teacher told you, stretching is especially important before and after a workout. “Far too often active individuals begin their workouts without a dynamic stretch,” Dr. Williams says. “Dynamic stretching increases one’s range of movement and blood flow to soft tissues prior to physical exertion and/or sport performance. This type of stretching is vital in improving performance and reducing the risk for injury.”

But you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit — in fact, stretching is an important antidote to all that sitting those of us with desk-based jobs tend to do. “Sitting at your desk all day can lead to decreased flexibility in hip flexors and hamstrings by keeping them in a shortened position for a prolonged period of time,” Dr. Williams warns. “Consider a standing desk or work station or taking several breaks throughout your work day to stand up and stretch.”

Gola Stadium Sneakers in Black

The Stadium Sneakers stand at the helm of this new collab, and they are the perfect sporty symbol for wearing with workout wear and casual outfits alike. They channel soccer style to the max with a unique stitching pattern on the leather upper and a contrasting rubber gum sole, but the shoes are also infused with feminine details from the light pink logos on the heels and sides to the thick ribbon laces.

"Our only-at-Anthro, exclusive Stadium Sneakers are limited edition, which were concepted by the Anthropologie creative team and produced by Gola," says Heather Mineau, the Divisional Merchandise Manager at Anthropologie. "They boast a sporty style that is inspired by traditional soccer cleats with unique stitching techniques and an unexpected twist of satin ribbon for laces."

Gola x Anthropologie Runner Cropped Baby Tee

Oh, baby! We love a baby tee, and this cropped iteration from the collab is a great everyday wear, whether it's paired with sweat-wicking leggings or baggy jeans. The white trim on the arms and collar meet a deep green background, plus this look earns you some nice street cred, since the Gola logo sits along the chest.

Gola x Anthropologie Boxer Shorts

Anthro and Gola hopped on the boxer shorts trendso stylishly. These breezy cotton bottoms with an elastic waistband are plastered with a funky repeat logo pattern to help you switch up your on- and off-the-court looks.

Gola x Anthropologie Shoulder Bag

This bag is everything! It's equal parts practical and pretty, thanks to the adorable bow on the strap. The body itself assumes the classic stripes you find on Gola shoe. It's made from nylon and mesh paneling, plus the little bit of green lining makes for the perfect eye-catching accent.

Gola x Anthropologie Team Jersey Dress

We're total suckers for sporty dresses, and this long-sleeved jersey design from the new collaboration looks like the ideal post-workout uniform! It's super tenniscore at heart, since it boasts a classic buttoned collar and some bold, game-changing stripes that run along the chest and arms.

Gola x Anthropologie Runner Baby Tee

Sport this figure-fitting baby tee on your next hot girl walk to instantly pump up your energy. It still gives a good sporty effect from the pink striped logo design, but you could style it just as easily with a mini skort or jeans since the baby tee fit is universally flattering and femme.

Gola Stadium Sneakers in White

The Stadium Sneakers are also available to snag in this stark white colorway that's complemented by green side stripes and ribbon laces. The mixed materials along the inside and outside of the low-profile shoe bring an undeniably unique, head-turning vibe to your footwear game!

Gola x Anthropologie Base Jump Parachute Pants

These green parachute pants might just be our favorite piece from the Anthropologie x Gola collection (along with the exclusive sneaker styles, of course)! They're crafted from a fabric that's both breathable and water-resistant, so they'll stand up to any sort of trek. Both the stretchy waistband and ankle openings are adjustable by discreet drawstrings, plus these pants have two front pockets for stowing away any essentials you'll need to keep close on your next mountain hike or city walk.

Gola x Anthropologie Hat Trick Windbreaker

This colorblocked windbreaker feels super retro! It's impressively lightweight and breathable, all while supplying a good amount of coverage along your arms and midsection. If you need a bit more airflow from this long-sleeved look, just zip down the sporty striped collar.

Gola x Anthropologie Jogger Sweatpants

These aren't your average gray sweatpants. The subtly tapered leg is met with some expertly-executed panel seaming and two massive pockets that can hold everything you need for a workout or evening walk. The waistline is adjustable with an easy drawstring to complete any laid-back look.

Gola x Anthropologie Bowler Bag

This chic bowler bag is the perfect statement piece to tie your outfits together. It comes with a detachable shoulder strap, so customizing your get-up is super easy! The bold stripes and Gola logo patch truly make this bag one you can't miss.

Gola x Anthropologie Blaze Sweat Shorts

These pink lounge shorts make lazy days so much more stylish. The elastic waistband ensures they always fit comfortably, plus there are two pockets for holding your phone, fave lip balms, or any other necessities you need within reach.

Gola x Anthropologie Hooded Sweatshirt

For chillier days (or even workout warm-ups), this floral sweatshirt keeps you nice and cozy. The cotton and polyester fabrication gives a super-soft feel, so you'll feel swarmed in warmth no matter where you take this pullover!

Gola x Anthropologie Ringer Graphic Tee

This ringer tee channels retro fashion in the coolest way with contrasting green trim and a bold patterned logo everyone will recognize.

Gola x Anthropologie Sling Bag

This handy-dandy floral sling bag fits snugly around your body and makes your belongings really easy to access. From hometown visits to faraway vacations, there's a spot for carrying everything – it has three secure pockets to keep things in check!

When did speculations about 'The Simple Life' reboot begin?

Peacock first shared a video clip on Instagram that hinted something special involving Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie is coming in May. A nostalgic TV set with a black and white screen can be seen while our favorite duo's voices can be hearing saying, "Sanasa, Sanasa."

Peacock captioned the post, "New Era. Same Besties. Coming soon to Peacock," and fans could barely contain their excitement. Even celebs like Naomi Campbell and Katy Perry commented on these hot vibes.

Then Paris Hilton took to her own Instagram to share more about what fans could expect. She said, "As some of you may know, we are doing a reunion special to celebrate 20 years of our show The Simple Life and it's been so much fun."

Actress Selma Blair shared how much she's looking forward to this by commenting that she's "living for this."

So are we!

What was 'The Simple Life' about?

The Simple Life showed Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie as they basically traded their wealthy lifestyles for 'everyday' living. Cameras followed them from fast food jobs to dealing with getting out of sticky situations they'd supposedly never experienced. Needless to say, it was hilarious, iconic, and instant reality TV gold.

How long was 'The Simple Life' on air?

The Simple Life was on air from 2003 to 2007 with five successful seasons. It seemed like it wasn't going to be hit at first, but it defied expectations. By how much you ask?

According to reporting from The Cut, somewhere around 13 million viewers tuned in to watch Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie's oddball take on daily life. That's a pretty huge deal if you ask us!

When will 'Paris & Nicole: The Encore' debut?

Paris & Nicole: The Encore will premiere on Peacock December 12! The two were previously seen at a Sonic drive-thru yesterday so it can be assumed filming is underway (via People)!

Sporting partial Sonic uniforms, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie added accent pieces that match their signature flairs. Paris wore a pair of reflective sunglasses, silver sequin heels, and added a pink flip phone to front of her blue apron. Nicole wore gold hoops and a pair of slingback pumps alongside her hotdog mascot costume. That's hot (dog).

How does Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie feel about reuniting for a reunion special?

Paris Hilton has expressed how much she loves to be sharing the screen with Nicole Richie again. "I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock. Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her," (via E! News).

Nicole also posted a few throwback moments from The Simple Life on her Instagram, but the most notable one is the video mashup of them singing "Sanasa, Sanasa" over and over. "20 years ago, not only did we become television stars… we became song writers. Happy Anniversary Sill @parishilton#TheSimpleLife#sannnasaaaaa" she wrote in the caption.

What have Paris and Nicole said about their reunion special?

Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie sat down with W Magazine to let the world know the Paris & Nicole: The Encore show is on its way! Not only that, but fans can expect to see an Opera version of the show they fell in love with two decades ago. Paris said, "The idea of the opera was unexpected" while Nicole chimed in with, "What people need, even though they don't know it yet, is for 'Sanasa' to be an opera.'"

The two besties came up with the idea via a series of texts that started off as ideas between them. Nicole said everything "came up organically" for the two and we can only imagine the memories this brought up for them. OG influencer Paris even talked about how The Simple Life was an "important show in pop culture history" and we couldn't agree more!

Nicole truly wants people to enjoy themselves while watching Paris & Nicole: The Encore and "find the same joy" she had while filming it. According to Paris, she feels what they have is "magic" because "there's just so much history behind it."

It's not every day that you can get to have fun with your best friend while coming up with long-lasting memories that contribute to pop culture, but Paris and Nicole have always danced to the beat of their own drums. Now we'll get to see them in action again!

Watch The Trailer For 'Paris & Nicole: The Encore'