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How to Exercise Ethically

Lockdown measures are slowly being lifted — and just in time for the weather getting better, too! That means that your return to the gym is also in sight. 

That being said, you might still prefer to keep working out at home, whether to save money, enjoy the comfort, or because you’re mindful of the environmental impact of gyms (more on this later!). If you’re in the latter camp, here are four ways to take your sustainable fitness routine even further.

1. Try Organic Fitness Supplements

Hands up if you’re one of the millions of people who take protein powders and other nutritional supplements to help bulk up for a workout? Sports supplements have become increasingly popular among gym-goers for their range of health benefits, yet although dietary supplements are regulated in the UK, many people will opt to buy them online from suppliers in countries where there are no such regulations. In fact, in some cases, it’s easy for consumers to stumble upon illegal supplements – such as pills claiming to be “fat burning” – that contain harmful chemicals unfit for human consumption, or animal-based ingredients.

If you think you’re out of the line of fire because you prefer a scoop of protein powder in your smoothie, you’re sadly not. A recent study from Harvard Medical School revealed there can be hidden dangers to protein powders too, especially ones with additives like sugar, calories and, in some cases, toxic chemicals. Yuck!

So what does one have to do around here to stay protected while pumpin’ some iron?

Well, actually you could just use our responsibly-sourced hemp protein, which lets you bypass those nasties and get all of the protein gains you need to work out sustainably.

Hi, Hemp Protein Powders!

Cue our hemp protein powders: whether you’re looking for that extra boost to improve your performance, or you simply want to ensure your post-workout snacks are on point, our plant-based powders are packed with nutritional and environmental benefits that won’t hinder your health journey. All of our products are ethical and sustainable, have no added extras, are 100% vegan and contain all 20 amino acids – pretty badass, huh? Stock up on this stuff and you’ll be seeing positive changes in no time.

2. Consider Sustainable Activewear

An increasing number of sportswear brands are now being founded with the aim of using sustainable fabrics, made in the most eco-conscious way possible. This means that when you’re hopping around your bedroom pulling on your favourite lycra number, you could be rooting around for a pair of leggings which are actually made from hemp fabric! 

We’re all aware of hemp’s environmental benefits by now (and if you’re not, you haven’t spent enough time with us yet), but let’s take a closer look at how this magical little green leaf is used as a fabric and what makes hemp activewear such a sustainable wardrobe option.

Hemp is known as what’s called a “bast fibre”, meaning it’s one of many natural fibres derived from the stems of plants, and offers a host of natural benefits that include keeping you cool in the summer (and those sweaty gym sessions), warm during winter and can even help protect you from UV rays. 

Activewear made from hemp fibre has a minimal environmental footprint when compared to other popular materials including cotton – in fact, research shows that cotton uses four times more water and much more land over the course of its production. All the while, hemp can produce up to double the amount of fibre yield per hectare than cotton and gives back approximately 70% of the nutrients it takes from soil to grow. 

Cotton versus hemp? I think we have a winner.

But where can you get your hands on all this ethical gym wear? There are actually a host of sustainable activewear brands out there waiting to be discovered, with a few of our favourite brands including Threads 4 Thought, Organic Basics, Girlfriend Collective, Tala and Oeko-Tex. And hemp is even getting a look-in when it comes to activewear too, with Patagonia being one of the first major brands to incorporate it into their sporting gear.

So stock up on comfortable yet kick-ass clothing that’s made from ethical and recycled materials, without a pair of non-biodegradable polyester or spandex shorts in sight!

3. Invest in Eco-friendly Exercise Equipment

From hemp yoga mats to second-hand exercise bikes, there’s a whole host of exercise gear you can invest in to get your home workout routine started sustainably. Make a point of looking out for eco-conscious brands, products made from natural or organic materials, or even used gym equipment. Also, using everyday household items instead of weights can be a great option for those who don’t have a dumbbell rack handy – who remembers raiding the cupboards for tins of beans during lockdown?

4. Join a Sustainable Gym

While prancing around the living room has been all fun and games of late, many health and fitness enthusiasts still prefer to use the facilities in a gym to get their gains – but this doesn’t always mean it’s bad for the environment. Take Terra Hale, London’s first eco-friendly fitness boutique complete with three human-powered studios that keep a mindful eye on wellness and Mother Nature. 

If you’re a runner or more of an outdoorsy type, Good Gym and Run Dem Crew are among some of the most fantastic eco-conscious clubs that mix fitness with creative workshops, events and projects that help the community! Now that’s our kinda workout.

At Good Hemp, we’re championing the sustainable workout revolution as part of our mission to change the world, one baby step at a time. Whether you sprinkle hemp seeds on your morning porridge, throw a scoop of protein powder in your shake, wear it in your exercise gear or opt for eco-friendly exercise clubs and equipment, choosing hemp is a super easy way to make the planet a better place, with zero drastic measures required. 

You don’t have to feel like you’re making the planet better all on your lonesome, but by jumping on the hemp train you’ll certainly be on the right track. 

Well, what are you waiting for? Grab your smoothie and sustainable yoga pants – it’s time to rock and roll!

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