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Here are all of the posts tagged 'mobile'.
An Apple a day – the healthier option for branded apps
Marketing Magazine recently published an article by me on the newest addition to iOS8 – HealthKit. They've been kind enough to let us reproduce it in full below:
New health tracking features of Apple iOS 8 present opportunities for brands in industries from healthcare and insurance, to FMCG and travel, writes Paul Napier.
The new iOS8 is now available for users to download. As an iOS developer I have had several months to play around and come to understand the new features that come with this version of the operating system. As always with the new release of iOS, there are a suite of changes, some major and some minor.
One of the most exciting additions to come out is HealthKit. So, what is it and how could it be used within your brand's digital portfolio?
What is HealthKit?
HealthKit is the product of a two-year collaborative endeavour between Apple and Mayo Clinics, which services around 1.2 million patients every year. Their combined goal is to put iPhones and iPads at the centre of the self-health movement that has seen traction of the last few years.
At its core, HealthKit is a central hub/repository for gathering all the intelligence apps collect about a user's fitness and health. Apps are able to upload their information about a user's health and fitness activities into HealthKit, and in instances where users grant them permission, download this information and manipulate it to gather a better picture of the person currently signed into the app.
Users can see all their information at a glance, as it tracks their fitness activities such as running, walking and cycling from apps and associated wearable technology. Additionally, adapters such as glucometers, ECG devices, blood pressure monitors and even ultrasound have been created to give greater knowledge to users about their overall health, all of which can be stored in HealthKit and accessed by users through the simple interface.
In essence, HealthKit has removed the silo mentality that comes from having multiple apps for individual purposes, and encourages greater communication between health and fitness experts.
How can it help me?
At this stage, since the technology is in its infancy, it is difficult to predict where it could lead. The obvious beneficiaries of this technology, at least in the first instance, are companies such as Nike, Adidas and other fitness specialists or wearable producers. However, beyond the obvious, this technology opens an exciting avenue that could allow more diverse industries to begin working on a more intimate level with their customers:
Medical: There could be long-term benefits to the medical industry, which will have a huge database of reliable, or at least semi-reliable, information about people's fitness and health. This information can be used to begin reviewing trends in health statistics against medical complications.
Healthcare: State medical facilities can build apps that can hook into a patient's profile and read their medical data alongside health and fitness activities, giving the doctors and immediate understanding of the patients well-being prior to any medical appointment. Taking this even further, the patients activities could be tracked and the patient sent a notification when certain thresholds are reached, meaning that doctors can start to focus more on prevention rather than the cure.
Financial services: Insurance companies could look at the health and fitness of their customers to provide accurate quotes, or provide incentives to those who follow a healthy regime.
FMCG: Food and beverage companies could build apps that tracked users consumption and offered better nutritional options on food and beverages could be tracked against the user's health needs, allergy requirements, blood sugar levels, fitness activities or goals.
Travel: Airlines could be made aware of any medical needs for passengers, or be alerted to dietary requirements, while encouraging their passengers with medical conditions to continue tracking throughout the journey to ensure the crew are alerted in the event of any pressing concern. Travel companies could track for potential changes in stress to enable bespoke packages to engage health focused customers.
Retail: Clothing and apparel companies could track clothing sizes using measurements given by the users then look at targeting them with the newest ranges in sizes that match the user's statistics or intended goals.
This information on its own is but one facet of a potential medical breakthroughs in both the literal and mobile sense. We are seeing a swell in the information being gathered around individuals: location, behavioural, social, economic, psychological, physiological, etc. I recently wrote an article outlining the benefits of looking at implementing a social strategy within your mobile application, and with the advent of this new technology, never has there been a greater time to review this strategy.
The power of integrating social alongside this medical and fitness information could seem overwhelming, and it is most certainly not for every company. However, for those companies that have a legitimate reason to access this information, the potential options for improving user experience and engagement are greater than ever before.
On a final note, any idea should have a benefit for both sides, and provide information about the user back into HealthKit before drawing information in return. This way, HealthKit can provide ongoing advancements and the information you receive can become a more detailed and richer experience for both you and the user.
We Are Social's Tuesday Tune-Up #156
Reddit launches Ask Me Anything app
After a failed attempt at launching an app in 2011, Reddit has rolled out an app centred solely on its "Ask Me Anything" series. Featuring a wide range of participants, such as politicians, television and film stars, and musicians, the series is one of the site's most popular destinations.
The app departs from the site's trademark simple look, instead featuring a sleeker display. Using left and right swipe motions, users can navigate between different question threads, and have the ability to forward links by text, email, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, and other sites. The app also gives users the opportunity to filter content to their own preferences, enhancing their experience, and making it even easier to find out more about the famous, notable, and interesting!
YouTube fan funding
YouTube is trialling a fan funding feature, giving users the chance to show even more love to their favourite channels. The feature can only be used if the channel owner has chosen to turn it on, and may provide further income for content producers, beyond ad revenue. While channel owners receive the bulk of the donation, Google claims five percent of the total, and a small fee. The feature is currently being trialled in the USA, Japan, Mexico and Australia, with views to expand in the future.
Social is increasingly important for marketers
The CMO Survey was released last week. The survey of 351 'marketing leaders' shows social is becoming ever more important to brands; it now makes up 9.4% of marketing budgets, expected to rise to 21.4% within five years.
However, as you can see below, ROI is still proving tricky. Particularly sad is the big blue section, made up of the 45% who can't show the impact of all the fantastic work they're doing. Expect to see increases in budgets for measuring ROI.
How cost efficient is social advertising?
Very! Wonderful news. Q2 analysis by Neustar has found that social ads outperformed ad networks, portals and exchanges for cost efficiency. Look at the graph, the graph says it all:
How social network ads affect buying decisions
So social ads are cost-effective, but which platform is king? Analysis by AoI Platforms of data from 500m clicks has found that YouTube is the best social network for introducing customers to new products, with Facebook coming in second. YouTube manages to perform well throughout the buying decision process, unlike Twitter, which is pretty much only useful during the middle phase.
Over 50% of people have a mobile phone
Half of the world now owns a mobile phone. At the time that we published our article on the subject, there were 7.258bn global citizens (though a few more have probably arrived in the last week), compared with 3.630bn unique mobile users.
Facebook video views at 1bn a day
Facebook video views grew by 50% month-on-month between May and July and, since June, there have been 1bn every single day. Fidji Simo, Project Management Director of Video at Facebook, wrote:
Video is one of the most engaging and immersive ways to tell your story. Whether capturing breaking news, a baby's first steps, or rising to a friend's challenge for charity, it is a remarkable storytelling medium.
He doesn't say what percentage are ice bucket challenges. We may soon know, though, as videos from public users and pages are set to display a view count in the near future.
'Privacy Checkup' debuts on Facebook
Facebook has rolled out 'Privacy Checkup', which it has been testing since March. Each user who logs in will see an option to edit their settings, guided by a cartoon dinosaur. (A tyrannosaur? Our taxonomy skills have left us wanting.) Here's how it all works:
Twitter adds a buy button for mobile commerce
Get set to start purchasing through Twitter – the network has just added a 'buy now' button for iPhone and Android. It's chosen 25 beta partners, which include two brands (Burberry and Home Depot), but are largely made up of celebrities. Musicians are an important part of the partnership, and celebs will be able to act as paid influencers for brands. You can find out about how it works in the below video:
Snapchat adds London geofilters
Snapchat has added 30 London-specific geofilters, which are only accessible in certain parts of the capital. Two of them have been revealed: the London Eye and Tower Bridge, but the other 28 remain a secret for now.
Netflix adds greater sharing controls
Netflix is allowing users increased privacy over what they share on Facebook. Previously, anyone who had linked their accounts would automatically share what they'd watched with any Facebook friends signed up to Netflix. Now, you can tell everyone about that Scandinavian crime drama, but keep Gossip Girl to yourself (or vice versa, of course).
Social media talks about the NFL
The new NFL season kicked off on Thursday to a roaring online reception. There were 15m total Facebook interactions from 8.5 million users, and the network released a map of the most popular team in each US county, measured by official page likes:
Frito Lays used the event to commence its latest campaign, in which fans must like a 'Fire Drill Alert' posted during Thursday night games, for the chance to win prizes from tubes of Stax to Superbowl tickets.
Asda set to launch YouTube commerce
Walmart-owned UK supermarket chain, Asda, is set to allow YouTube users to purchase its products without leaving the site. A new partnership with e-commerce service, Constant Commerce, will allow the brand to display a list of products alongside its videos, which users can add to their basket before checking out, without ever leaving the video.
Samsung launches #thatsucks campaign
Samsung has been walking the 'fail' tightrope with its latest vacuum cleaner campaign, dubbed #thatsucks. It has received a couple of negative responses, but in large part shows that it's possible to take risks in social and succeed.
@SamsungUK 130 days without a working phone and being told I have to send it away for the 7th time #ThatSucks
— Matt Drew (@Mdrewey) August 29, 2014
When your pet decides that #OrangeIsTheNewBlack #ThatSucks https://t.co/TjPVG9jwOB
— Samsung UK (@SamsungUK) July 21, 2014
adidas crowdsources NYFW show
adidas put on the world's first crowdsourced fashion show during New York Fashion Week. Dubbed #NEORunway, almost every element of the show was chosen by fans – from hair and makeup to music, outfits and even set design.
Starwood looking to LinkedIn with $30m campaign
Hotel chain, Starwood, is putting LinkedIn at the centre of its latest campaign, worth $30m. It is looking to promote its 'Starwood Preferred Guest' loyalty programme in the business market, making LinkedIn a good fit, though it will also increase the volume of its content on Facebook, Youtube and Twitter.
EA creates social media sitcom
EA is pushing the launch of the Sims 4 with a sitcom that takes place on social media. Four different characters, each with a personal Twitter account, will act out the story over two weeks. It's based on 'Gone With The Wind', so they've taken a punt and are calling it 'Gone With The Sims'.
Snuggle Bear gets social
Snuggle is bringing its mascot, the Snuggle Bear, into the 21st century. He'll be debuting on various social channels for his 30th birthday, as part of an editorial-led campaign across Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram. Now, you've been very good and finished your whole mashup, so here's a picture of the cuddly chap. Don't say we don't treat you.
Half of Africa's internet users now using Facebook
Facebook has recently announced that it has reached 100 million users in Africa, meaning that approximately 50% of all internet users on the continent now have a profile on the site. The announcement suggests that if improved internet connectivity spreads across areas of the world without steady internet access, such as South America and India, Facebook could potentially gain even more users.
We Are Social's Tuesday Tune-Up #150
'Symbol of Peace' goes viral
As violence continues between Israeli forces and Hamas, a selfie taken by Sulome Anderson has gone viral on Twitter, sparking a symbol of peace in the Middle East. The photograph shows Arab-American journalist Anderson and her Israeli-American boyfriend kissing while Anderson holds a piece of paper reading "Jews and Arabs Refuse To Be Enemies."
The statement has now become a hashtag and resulted in thousands of tweets and retweets from around the globe calling for peace. Anderson states in a NY Mag essay they "posted the picture without a second thought" to support a then little-known Facebook page. She admits now that the response is "scary and overwhelming. But we both know that afraid is the wrong way to feel about it."
He calls me neshama, I call him habibi. Love doesn't speak the language of occupation #JewsAndArabsRefuseToBeEnemies pic.twitter.com/CpqwxNM6ys
— Sulome Anderson (@SulomeAnderson) July 13, 2014
David Jones launches collection via YouTube
In a move from the retailer who is usually behind competitors in the digital space, David Jones has kicked off its new spring and summer collection with a 90-second video piece via it's Youtube channel. The highly stylised video titled 'Explore S/S14 David Jones Film' features Jessica Gomes, Montana Cox and other models on a playful journey through cities, beaches and forests as directed by Jeffrey Darling. The video can be seen on David Jones' newly launched Youtube channel which coincides with the launch of content environment website 'Style HQ'.
Mobile social users engage more with brands
Mobile social users are more likely than their desktop-only equivalents to 'like' branded content, according to a survey of 37,000 US online adults. The study asked recipients if they liked something a company posted at least once per week; 49% of tablet users and 46% of those using smartphones said that they did, compared to 37% of desktop/PC-only users. Meanwhile, 64% of US online adults access social media through desktops/laptops, 45% on smartphones and 25% tablets.
Facebook releases Q2 results
Facebook released its Q2 results last week and they contained some impressive numbers. Monthly active users (MAUs) have grown to over 1.3 billion, up from 1.276 billion in Q1, while mobile MAUs now total 1.07 billion (vs. 1.008 billion last quarter).
The real success, though, is financial. Total revenue has increased to $2.9bn, the company's biggest quarterly total, up from $2.5bn in Q1.
Ad revenue for the quarter amounted to $2.68bn, of which 62% came through mobile. Indeed 30% of the network's MAUs access it solely through mobiles or tablets, leading to discussion about the potential for a mobile-only version of Facebook. Ad prices more than doubled last quarter, too, allowing Facebook to increase its revenue while reducing the number of total ads. These figures combined have led to a valuation of $192bn, more than Disney or Toyota, which is 128 times its profits for the whole of last year.
LinkedIn adds new ad capabilities
LinkedIn has launched 'Direct Sponsored Content', a new ad format that will allow advertisers to test, tailor and target content, much like they do on Facebook. The new system will compliment 'Sponsored Stories', the main difference being the ability to target different messages at specific audiences.
LinkedIn buys Bizo
Some more big ad news from LinkedIn: the network has purchased business-to-business digital advertising company, Bizo, for $175m. Deep Nishar, LinkedIn SVP of product and user experience, said of the move:
Our ability to integrate [Bizo's] b-to-b solutions with our content marketing products will enable us to become the most effective platform for b-to-b marketers to engage professionals.
Foursquare sheds check-ins
Foursquare has launched the latest version of its main app, through which you can longer check in. To do so, users will now need to use 'Swarm' – the main Foursquare app is being reinvented as a discovery service, similar to the likes of Yelp.
'The Giver' produces Kik campaign
A new film for young adults, named 'The Giver', is launching a campaign on messaging app, Kik. The film's promoters have created a card that contains a trailer, trivia and film-branded stickers, all of which can be shared with other users within the app.
Applebee's looks for Instagram 'Fantographers'
Over the next year, US restaurant chain, Applebee's, is to populate its Instagram feed with content from 'Fantographers'. First, users opt in for a microsite, then anything shared using #Applebees or #Fantographer is eligible to be posted by the brand. Each image will have a border added, like so:
adidas and Champs Sports launch #adicolorTV
adidas has joined up with Champs Sports to produce a set of four online shows hosted on Instagram. The campaign, dubbed #adicolorTV, is being run through the Champs Sports page.
Expedia wants throwback photos
Expedia is looking to tap into the 'Throwback Thursday' trend on Instagram and Twitter by asking users to tweet such photos @Expedia using #ThrowMeBack. Each week, one winner is selected to receive a voucher, so that they can revisit the site of their photo.
Prime TV to reveal everyone's favourite child
A new season of Modern Family is set to premiere on New Zealand's Prime TV, which has created a Facebook app for the occasion. The 'Favourite Child Detector' analyses your Facebook history and ranks you and your siblings based on interactions from your parents.
Michelle Phan being sued over music licensing
Here's a cautionary tale to any brands and content creators using other people's music or images withour permission. YouTube star, Michelle Phan, is being sued by electronic dance music label, Ultra, for allegedly using its music without the proper permissions. Phan sells adverts against her channel, and also uses it to promote her makeup line.
Captain Morgan made to remove Facebook post by ASA
Diageo-owned rum brand, Captain Morgan, was forced to remove a Facebook post, after the UK's Advertising Standards Authority ruled that it implied alcohol helps conquer boredom. The text read "Wednesday. I'm declaring war on mid-week boredom", so you can sort of see where they're coming from.
David Mitchell writes a short story on Twitter
David Mitchell, author of 'Cloud Atlas', has released a short story piece-by-piece on Twitter. It's taken 280 tweets – here's how it starts:
We get off the Number 10 bus at a pub called 'The Fox and Hounds'. 'If anyone asks,' Mum tells me, 'say we came by taxi.'
— David Mitchell (@david_mitchell) July 14, 2014
We Are Social's Tuesday Tune-Up #148
Virgin Mobile Australia launches #mealforameal campaign
As part of their major integrated marketing campaign 'Making Mobile Better,' Virgin Mobile Australia has partnered with OzHarvest to turn the act of taking pictures of food into something beneficial for Australians. With the #mealforameal initiative, every time someone posts a picture of their food to social media and includes the hashtag, Virgin Mobile will donate to OzHarvest so they can provide a real meal to someone in need.
Jägermeister is 'Strange But True'
Over the past month, premium spirits brand Jägermeister has been delivering their new 'Strange But True' positioning on Facebook. The campaign uses illustrations to depict the various characters that males identify with in their social groups. One of the main actions for social sharing is having friends "tag their mate" that identifies with one of the characters – a frugal Fox, a noble Stag, an Owl who loves to party, a Wingman or a Snow Leopard who spends too much time in his man cave. The campaign is designed to shift the thinking of Jägermeister from a drink for the end of the night to a drink made for the beginning.
Anonymous app Secret moves away from anonymity
The popular anonymous app Secret has teamed up with Facebook to make it easier for people to view popular secrets shared by their friends. In a shift that moves the app away from anonymity, Secret is rolling out two new features this week to both their Android and iOS apps called Facebook Login and Collections. Facebook Login will let users see secrets from friends, while Collections will offer a curated stream of popular secrets.
Mobile social use is up, desktop slightly down
A new comScore report has explored the growth of mobile use in social, arguing that it does not come at the expense of desktop use. Between May 2013 and May 2014, the total number of minutes spent using mobile to access social media grew from 479bn to 687bn. You might expect to see a similar drop in desktop use, but you'd be mistaken: total desktop time did fall, but only from 477bn to 466bn.
Mobile and digital budgets are up
Digital advertising budgets will this year rise 16.7% to $140.15bn, according to eMarketer predictions. Spend on mobile/tablets will see the most signficant jump, up 84.7% to $32.71bn. By 2018, digital will account for a third of global ad spend, while mobile will be 70.4% of UK digital budgets, and 67.8% in the US.
Facebook adds 'suggested videos' to mobile
If you watch a friend's video in your mobile News Feed, Facebook will show you a set of suggested videos, much like the 'Related News' feature. This is the latest Facebook update that seeks to encourage people to share and watch videos, and TechCrunch has accordingly likened it to a TV channel.
Facebook creates 'Out-App Purchase' ad
Facebook has launched a new ad type: the 'Out-App Purchase' ad, which allows those who develop Facebook games to sell virtual goods directly through the News Feed. Currently, the unit is only available for desktop, but, should it prove effective, we may well see a move in the lucrative mobile market.
Twitter goes all out on organic reach
Twitter is backing itself as the social destination for organic reach, telling brands that they can be seen by 30% of their followers for free by tweeting 2-3 times per day. Not only that, but it has released a set of organic tweet analytics, so that brands can now see how many users viewed or engaged with organic tweets.
Pinterest updates 'Follow' pin
Pinterest has developed a new, animated 'Follow' pin to be featured on websites outside of its network. Rather than simply linking to Pinterest, the button will launch a pop-up preview of the account, featuring a selection of its pins.
WeChat launches ad platfrom
WeChat, the Chinese messaging service, has created an ad platform for brands with over 100,000 followers. Ads will only appear when users click on full-page posts from officials accounts that they already follow. Even then, the ad is not full screen, but shows up at the bottom of the page. Nevertheless, it's worth keeping an eye on how WeChat's advertising strategy grows in the future.
The World Cup breaks social records
The World Cup is over too quickly, once again. According to Facebook, the final was the most talked-about sporting event in the network's history, amassing a total of 280m mentions. One semi-final also managed to inspire a huge social response, as Germany trashed hosts Brazil 7-1. This was the most discussed sports game ever on Twitter, with 35.6m tweets in total. Germany's fifth goal broke the record for global tweets-per-minute at 580,166.
Unsurprisingly, brands wanted to get in on some of the action. Below you can see examples from a huge variety of companies, from Visa and the Seattle Seahawks to Sony, Paddy Power and adidas.
Stunned. #WorldCup #Brazil2014 pic.twitter.com/CRVF0HesU1
— Visa (@Visa) July 8, 2014
— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) July 8, 2014
Well, this is awkward…. (via @diosflorentino) #BrazilNuts pic.twitter.com/OM1PYZ7dzt
— Paddy Power (@paddypower) July 9, 2014
Only the best teams make it to the semi-finals of the #WorldCup. Congratulations to Germany and the hosts. #allin pic.twitter.com/5oYR9mFOco
— adidas (@adidas) July 8, 2014
Sour Patch Kids on Snapchat
Sour Patch Kids is to become the first Mondelez brand using Snapchat when it enlists the help of Logan Paul to run a week-long campaign. The social media star will send out Snaps from the brand's account, detailing pranks that range from 'sweet' to 'sour'.
Mercedes-Benz targets millenials on Instagram
Mercedez-Benz has launched a campaign on Instagram, dubbed #GLApacked, intending to target a younger audience. The brand has got Instagram influencers on board, each of whom has been loaned a GLA for a cross-country trip and asked to document it on the network.
4Music is searching for a vlogger
British channel 4Music is searching for its next vlogger through an online 'Vlogstar' microsite, sponsored by O2. Entrants need to submit a YouTube video for their chance to be the winner, who will be allowed behind-the-scenes on 4Music shoots and at gigs, producing several videos every week for the channel.
The CIA and Twitter
Last week, the CIA used the hashtag #twitterversary to answer some of the 'top questions' it had been asked since its launch on Twitter.
Sorry for not following you back @TheEllenShow. But if you visit us maybe we can take a selfie? #twitterversary
— CIA (@CIA) July 7, 2014
The above and other tweets like it have led to a debate over what the CIA's strategy is. The humour may lead to a number of RTs, but questions have been raised about whether this helps the CIA's chief objective: gaining trust. Indeed, this may be all the more relevant in the week when it has come to light that the activities of Twitter users were analysed by the US military in an attempt to understand how to influence people. News like this is likely to lead to increased debate about privacy, in which the CIA may want to be a major player.
We Are Social's Tuesday Tune-Up #138
Relief organisation Misereor introduces 'The Social Swipe'
What's the one thing people always have with them? A credit card.
To encourage donations, Misereor introduced The Social Swipe – an interactive poster that has a slit in the middle where people can insert and swipe down their credit card to make a donation of two Euros.
Swiping a credit card triggers an animation sequence that illustrates what a small donation can do to help the poor and disadvantaged. This clever activation provides people with an easy and engaging way to get involved and illustrates where their donation goes to.
Coca-Cola 'Happiness Arcade Machine' makes recycling fun
Coca-Cola has come up with a green initiative to get kids involved with recycling in Bangladesh called 'The Happiness Arcade'. In an effort to raise awareness and incentivise recycling, the brand installed six arcade machines in Dhaka that run on empty bottles rather than quarters.
In the mean time, we can all continue to look for ways to make recycling fun!
Facebook launches mobile ads Audience Network
Facebook has launched its mobile ad network, allowing developers to make money without having to sell their own ads, do their own targeting, handle measurement, or route payments.
The program will roll out over the "coming months" and will start with advertisers interested in buying app installs and engagement ads. No surprises here – Facebook will take a cut of what advertisers pay and hand the rest to the publishers.
The ads come in three formats: standard IAB banners, standard IAB interstitials, and native ad units.
YouTube adds three-second clips to all video content
Google announced a new feature for YouTube that will let creators upload a 3-second intro clip that will play before all of their channels' videos.
To get started, channel managers need to upload the intro as an unlisted video, select "Add a channel branding intro" on the InVideo Programming Page and then choose on which videos the clip should play.
Unfortunately, Google won't allow these intro videos to serve as ads, sponsorships or product placements.
Foursquare has introduced a new stand-alone app, Swarm
Foursquare is breaking itself to two parts: Foursquare for exploring your location, and a whole new app, called Swarm, for keeping up with friends.
The idea comes out of the two unique experiences that Foursquare users have always valued: the first, was sharing your location and finding out where your friends are; the second category became finding new places in your area, by reading reviews, viewing menus/pictures, then locating them on a map.
Bottom line: Swarm will be a map of all your friends, and Foursquare will be a map of all your places. You can sign up for the Swarm mailing list to be the first to know when it is released.
Twitter is experimenting with a mute feature in its mobile apps
Do you ever feel pressured to follow someone for work or social reasons even though their tweets annoy you? No problem, Twitter is experimenting with a mute feature in its mobile apps.
Some users of the company's iOS and Android clients are now seeing an option to mute accounts that they follow, preventing another user's tweets and retweets from appearing in their timeline. The user remains muted until you manually unmute them.
In essence, you won't be seeing another person's tweets, but they won't know that. Everybody wins!
Vine gets a makeover – videos are now viewable to non-users
In addition to the home feed and profile view that featured on the initial version of Vine, users will now find a search bar and a set of discovery features from the mobile apps: including curated content — playlists and featured videos and features users — channels, trending tags and popular now.
Interestingly, the site is now accessible for visitors that are not logged in to the service, which will open it up to all for the first time. Like Instagram, Vine began as a mobile-only service, and it will be interesting to see how the team continues to develop the Web version with a greater focus on consuming content.


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NOV 17, 2014 - Fox News
A Must Read - Share
Mexico has detected its first domestic case of the painful mosquito-borne viral disease chikungunya in the southwest of the country, the state government of Chiapas said on Saturday.
NOV 07, 2014 - WebMD
Painful infection is common in Caribbean, and Central and South America
NOV 06, 2014 - Doctors Lounge
NOV 05, 2014 - Huffington Post
By: Rachael Rettner Published: 11/05/2014 09:44 AM EST on LiveScience Emerging viral diseases are at the center of health news right now. The most significant of them, in terms of human cases and death toll, is the re-emergence of Ebola virus, which is causing the biggest outbreak of the disease in history. But there is also chikungunya fever, which appeared ...
NOV 03, 2014 - Huffington Post
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Philanthropist Bill Gates says he wants to end malaria in his lifetime and will give more money toward that goal, part of his broader fight against tropical diseases that are getting unusual public attention because of the Ebola epidemic. In an interview with The Associated Press and in a speech Sunday at a global health conference ...
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The Race To Make Hillary Clinton More Liberal Is On
Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren start positioning.
Skip to content, or skip to search.
Skip to content, or skip to search.
Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren start positioning.
Stop trying to make Rand Paul happen.
Anatomy of a journalistic train wreck.
When economic sabotage backfires.
What does this mean for 2016?
Life in Ohio, a continuing series that the Republican National Committee obviously has not read.
Four thoughts on another Boehner-tastrophe.
From "Let Me Drink Beer" to "Let Them Eat Cake."
McDonnell, Christie, now Scott Walker.
And they bought 85,000 copies of her book.
Meet the new savior, same as the old savior.
Is the Electoral College biased?
The roots of a pathology.
What happens in Vegas.
Now there's a second investigation.
It was fun while it lasted.
Somehow he doesn't grasp "fair and balanced."
The GOP presidential front-runner? Not so fast.
What is she waiting for?
He's the anti–Paul Ryan.


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Shopping & Services
Whatever you need, the shops in Lake Tahoe and nearby Truckee will have it. Featuring mom-and-pops, big boxes, boutiques, outlets and everything in between, Lake Tahoe and Truckee have all your consumer needs covered. Take home a Lake Tahoe souvenir or find a good ski rental by browsing below or using the links on the left.
Stillwater Spa & Salon111 Country Club Drive, Incline Village, NV 89451
view phone(775) 886-6745
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In: Shopping & Services: Salons & Spas | Weddings: Salons & Spas
Relax in luxurious reflection of the tranquil, natural environment of the Lake Tahoe region. With an air of eco-sophistication and an ambiance of cozy mountain elegance, Stillwater Spa promotes wellness through the power of nature.
Gaia-Licious987 Tallac Avenue, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
view phone(530) 542-4244
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In: Shopping & Services: Boutiques & Gifts, Apparel
Gaia-Licious is an experiential global gift boutique located in South Lake Tahoe, California. We carry a unique variety of clothing, jewelry, music, books and gifts. Our products include many fair-trade imports, locally made and eco-friendly items.
Powder House Ski & Board Delivery3930 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
view phone1(800) 555-2065
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In: Shopping & Services: Ski or Snowboard Rentals | Activities: Skiing & Snowboarding
Powder House Ski & Snowboard Delivery in Lake Tahoe offers the largest selection and best-quality ski and snowboard rental equipment. The Powder House Delivery staff is the most knowledgeable in Tahoe and will get you set on equipment that is perfect for you! Easy drop off and pick up from our delivery staff makes Powder House Ski & Snowboard your best gear rental option this winter!
A Day in Your Life PhotographyKings Beach, CA 96143
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A Day in Your Life Photography in Lake Tahoe is dedicated to capturing special moments and creating beautiful images. Wedding photography, portraits, fine art and nature photography are all available services.
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11 Easy Halloween Craft Ideas: Halloween Decorations to Make for Your Home
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Happy Bat Crayons
By: Smashed Peas and Carrots
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If you're tired of making the same old Halloween crafts with your kids every year, you should try out these Happy Bat Crayons. These unique Halloween crafts for kids are so simple to make, they're the perfect easy Halloween crafts for busy moms and dads!
Estimated Cost: Under $10
Time to complete: In an evening
Primary Technique: General Crafts
Difficulty Level: Easy
For more Halloween craft ideas, check out our collection of 27 of Our Favorite Quick Kid Halloween Crafts.
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Fortescue Metals Group Ltd. (FMG), Australia's biggest junk bond issuer, plans to sell $1 billion of senior unsecured notes to help fund an expansion of its iron ore operations and to buy mining equipment and vehicles.
The high-yield offering will help pay for output growth as well as a mobile mining fleet, the Perth-based company said today in a statement to the Australian stock exchange. The five- and ten-year bonds will be callable after three and five years, respectively, according to a person familiar with the sale, who declined to be identified because terms aren't set.
Fortescue, Australia's third-largest iron ore producer, is expanding to meet growing demand in China, the world's biggest producer of steel. The company, rated BB- by Standard & Poor's, three levels below investment grade, has $5.6 billion of bonds and loans outstanding, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
The mining company, which is seeking to almost triple iron ore output to 155 million metric tons, last sold bonds in October when it issued $1.5 billion of 8.25 percent, 2019 notes callable after four years, paying 648 basis points more than similar-maturity Treasuries. The spread on the notes narrowed to 524.8 basis points today, according to prices from Nomura Holdings Inc.
To contact the reporters on this story: Elisabeth Behrmann in Sydney at firstname.lastname@example.com; Sarah McDonald in Sydney at firstname.lastname@example.com
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Rebecca Keenan at email@example.com


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Chris Brown - Don't Wake Me Up
Artist: Chris Brown
Producer: Benny Benassi and Freeschool
Album: Fortune
Avg Rating: 2.9 ( 16 votes )
Unable to Watch this Youtube Video? Click here to play in Soundcloud instead.
Ever had a dream so beautiful that hearing your alarm ring and realizing it wasn't true ruined your whole damn day? Then you'll understand exactly how Chris Brown feels on Don't Wake Me Up. The latest promo single off his forthcoming fifth studio album, this joint finds Breezy struggling to keep a romantic reverie alive over Benny Benassi and Freeschool's alternately understated and club-banging production. Fans will be able to find this cut and much more on Brown's Fortune LP, due out June 19, via RCA.
Chris Brown Music VideosR&B/PopHitmakerClub
Written by richard on 06/11/12
Submit your Rating
First DJ Booth Appearance:
"Wall To Wall" (2007)
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Belt holster for left or right handed carry. For large frame. Adjustable. M.O.L.L.E system. Nylon.
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amazon - News, Features, and Slideshows
In Pictures: How 41 tech companies got their names
From Apple to Amazon to Microsoft to Twitter, the names of some of the world's most popular tech companies tend to have interesting and significant backstories.
Amazon launches $39 Chromecast competitor
Amazon this week began taking pre-orders for its Fire TV Stick, an HDMI dongle that streams content. But if you order the $39 stick today, you won't get it by Christmas.
Commercial pilots group concerned over Amazon drone safety
An organization representing thousands of commercial pilots in the U.S. and Canada says it's concerned about the safety implications of Amazon flying drones at a site near Seattle.
Amazon builds sales, but losses pile up
Amazon.com continued to increase its sales last quarter but losses also mounted, to the growing consternation of investors.
How Netflix survived the Amazon EC2 reboot
Sometimes the best path to success is to learn how to avoid failure.
Booksellers raise Amazon monopoly concerns with European Commission
Booksellers have met with European Commission officials to discuss their concerns that Amazon holds a monopoly in the online book market.
How one user (successfully) managed the Amazon cloud reboot
Kevin Felichko didn't get as much sleep as he wanted to on Monday night.
Drones are the new Pets.com
Everyone, from Amazon to Google to Martha Stewart, has been lauding the benefits we'll all reap by the use of drones, and there's a gold rush on to cash in on the technology. But beware: The trend has all the hallmarks of a bubble-in-the-making, the contemporary equivalent of that symbol of the excess of the millennial tech bubble, the now-defunct Pets.com.
Chinese e-commerce giant, Alibaba, seeks up to $US21 billion in US IPO
Alibaba is looking to raise as much as $US21 billion in its U.S. IPO, according to documents filed Friday, making the Chinese e-commerce company's debut one of the largest initial public offerings in U.S. history.
Ready for the robot revolution?
The days of drones filling the sky and robots roaming in our streets are not far removed from reality anymore, and scenes from movies like Star Wars, Minority Report and I, Robot will be common soon. Just consider some of the ways that robots have started to permeate our lives.
Update on my Amazon Fire Phone review
The PR people from Amazon got in touch after I published my review of the new Amazon Fire Phone (Amazon Fire Phone: Nice but nothing to get fired up about). They had a couple of points they asked me to clarify:
2014 a seminal year for cloud take up: Amazon
2014 is a seminal year for the take up of cloud services and there's been a shift in thinking around the infrastructure model from years back when people were concerned about issues like security.
True utility computing coming soon: Vic Winkler
True utility computing – where virtual machines are moved between competing service providers without an organisation's knowledge – is coming soon, according to Vic Winkler, CTO at data security provider Covata.
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Attackers install DDoS bots on Amazon cloud, exploiting Elasticsearch weakness
Attackers are exploiting a vulnerability in distributed search engine software Elasticsearch to install DDoS malware on Amazon and possibly other cloud servers.


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"Female singer/songwriter needed to accompany acoustic guitar/ male singer"
Female singer/songwriter to accompany male singer/acoustic guitarist, Looking for a singer around the age of 18 to a similar age of me. The music genre I play is mainly Indie...but happy to have a go at other stuff. I am located in Bristol Let


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"Yeah, that's right, my hair is purple, each strand a silent scream that pierces like a razor in my heart so I'll know I'm still alive."
(image source of katy at the narm awards dinner last night = wenn, getty)
"Yeah, that's right, my hair is purple, each strand a silent scream that pierces like a razor in my heart so I'll know I'm still alive."
(image source of katy at the narm awards dinner last night = wenn, getty)
While Brendon has retreated back to whatever dark place only the power of an Angelina Jolie-related story can draw him from, I have returned to you as mystery writer to make sure that you don't remain ignorant to the fact that Katy Perry's vagina is once again being penetrated. TMZ reports:
The two were also spotted together at the music festival last weekend … and according to some reports, Katy was already referring to him as her "boyfriend."
That music festival happens to be Coachella, where talented musicians — who most likely have wives and/or girlfriends at home — like Robert Ackroyd, guitarist for Florence + The Machine, get to have casual sex with less talented "musicians" like Katy Perry. It's like Woodstock, only this time penicillin is no match for what they'll be transmitting to their significant others.
(Image Source = Pacific Coast News)
Katy Perry married Russell Brand in India of October of 2010, then filed for divorce in America fourteen months later. But then she went back to India earlier this month, and according to Us magazine and some snitch who can't keep a secret, that made her all sentimental and plagued with regret.
"Katy's been trying to get him back! She's a lost soul right now. She'd already been missing Russell. Being back there stirred up even more old feelings."
Well of course it did. India is dirty and smells bad, just like Russell Brand. It would have been the same if she'd gone to New Orleans, she'd have been wet the entire time.
(image source of katy on saturday at day 2 of coachella = wenn, splash)
Here are some new promo pictures of Katy Perry modeling for Adidas and their Seduction running shoe. What a sexy name! I've never wanted to fuck a shoe so badly in my life. Well maybe once. Ok twice. Less than 10 times.
(image source = splash)
The paparazzi caught Katy Perry leaving her hotel in Paris today, and she ruined a perfectly good outfit by wearing that top over her see thru dress. What is she, a banker? Stop being so stuck up and let me see your tits, Katy. You're gonna make the French think we're uptight and uncool.
(image source = inf and fame/flynet)
Katy Perry wasn't very subtle when staring at Rihannas chest last night at the Grammy Awards, but luckily Rihanna is slutty so she didn't mind. Then after this, did Rihanna lick Katys ear, and whisper to let go, to succumb to desire and taste the pleasures of the flesh? Probably, yes.
(image source = getty)


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|Total (w/tax)
|Total (w/tax)
Book Description:
Over 70% of the people Dr. Kondrot has treated have actually shown significant improvement in their vision. Some have regained enough vision to be able to read again, see their grandchildren's faces, and even regain their driver's license. Microcurrent stimulation (MCS) uses a combination of acupuncture and electricity to stimulate healing of macular degeneration. This book offers a thorough explanation and history of MCS, details the equipment needed for self-treatment, and describes supplemental acupuncture points.
Tags: Health-Fitness-Dieting, Alternative-Medicine, Acupuncture-Acupressure,


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Find records of Myrtle Parkison
Find birth, death, marriage, military, and other records of Myrtle E Parkison at Ancestry.com.Search for records
Biography & Family History Add details
Myrtle E Parkison (1892 - 1988) was born on August 29, 1892. She was born into the Parkison family.
There are no known marriages or children on file for Myrtle. Myrtle died on March 9, 1988 at age 95.
Myrtle E Parkison's last known residence is at Rapid City, Pennington County, South Dakota.
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Possible Relatives
- Irene Parkison
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- Gordon L Parkison
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- Violet Parkison
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- Floy Parkison
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- Richard D Parkison
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- June N Parkison
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- Christine Sue Parkison
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- Mina Parkison
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- William S Parkison
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- Donald E Parkison
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- Donald Parkison
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- Harold Parkison
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- Oliver C Parkison
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- Oma Parkison
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- Basil M Parkison
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- Wilbert H Parkison
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- Mildred Parkison
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Should You Be Using Toner?
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Small business advocates in the House continue to introduce bills in support of small federal contractors. The latest bill would bring into the light the process by which agencies insource work and give firms standing to challenge an insourcing decision in court.
Rep. Mick Mulvaney (R-S.C.) introduced the Subcontracting Transparency And Reliability (STAR) Act on Feb. 2.
Under the bill, agency officials would have to allow the public to comment on the agency's procedures for bringing in-house work that a small business has been doing. The small business advocates within a department, such as Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) officials, would have to review the procedures as well.
The bill would also give small businesses the opportunity to challenge insourcing decisions in court.
Mulvaney tackles subcontracting problems as well in the bill. A small business could not subcontract more than 50 percent of what the government pays it for a contract. There would be a penalty for violating the rule, including a possible three-year suspension from contracting, a fine or jail.
The legislation is designed to ensure that small businesses that get the contracts are doing the bulk of the work. It would make it easier to crack down on deceptive large businesses hiding behind small businesses.
"The STAR Act will help provide an even playing field for many small contractors who otherwise would not have the resources to fight deceitful subcontracting and unjustified insourcing within the federal procurement system," said Mulvaney, chairman of the Small Business Committee's Contracting and Workforce Subcommittee.
Mulvaney's legislation was introduced two days after the Small Business Committee chairman, Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.), introduced two bills. One bill would pressure agencies to meet their small business contracting goals or take bonuses away from senior federal officials. The Government Efficiency through Small Business Contracting Act (H.R. 3850) also raises the governmentwide contracting goal from 23 percent to 25 percent.
Graves introduced the Small Business Advocate Act (H.R. 3851) the same day. It would make the OSDBU director a senior executive position and "report directly and exclusively" to the agency head. The Small Business Committee wrangled with agency officials in 2011 about the access their OSDBU directors had to the top-ranking official.
In addition to these three bills, Rep. Bill Owens (D-N.Y.), member of the Small Business Committee, introduced a bill that would cut an agency's budget by 10 percent in the following fiscal year if that agency missed the set small-business contracting goal.
Each of the bills has been referred to the Small Business Committee for further consideration.
About the Author
Matthew Weigelt is a freelance journalist who writes about acquisition and procurement.
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Steve Kelman considers the costs of corruption in Mexico, China, and most developing countries -- and argues that Americans should keep their own government troubles in perspective.
Agency leaders must proactively invest time, energy and resources to shape the future rather than reactively wait for change to happen.
Meet 24 men and women who are driving key changes in federal IT -- and shaping up as the community's likely leaders of tomorrow.
GSA's administrator talks with FCW about short-term hiring, long-term planning and Robert Frost.
Without a future vision and an appetite for risk, reforms lead down a rabbit hole. There is a better way.
VA's top tech official says he is balancing risks while trying to keep the department's online services open for business.
After five years on the job, the founding director of the Office of Government Information Services believes that a deeper understanding and acceptance of FOIA is seeping into the federal government.
The September attack, made public Nov. 10, potentially puts customer and employee personal information at risk, including addresses, Social Security numbers and emails.
The General Services Administration's Matthew Goodrich predicts more agency-driven authorizations and previews a new two-year road map.
OccupyIT's last sentence hits the nail on the head. Prohibit small business contracts from being bundled and included into larger corporate contributor's contracts where a $100,000 bid is accepted and NOT bundled and included in a $10 Million contract instead where there is NO accountability for any savings. Stop bundling of small business contracts or force large businesses to show how they have included the same savings offered by the small business proposal!
Subcontracting Plans don't have a large amount of impact if the agency is not performing adequate oversight. Many are far worst than others & it applies mostly to the larger budget offices.
Feds are getting push from OMB to limit contract support staff if there is not adequate resources to oversee the work and to finally put an end to all the support contracts that violate FAR 37.203(c)(2). So if this legislation is passed, it would put feds in a catch-22 situation when trying to make a determination to not reprocure an inappropriate support contract that previously was awarded to a small business.
Failure to meet small business targets is not the result of small businesses subcontracting more than 50% of the work - that is already prohibited in essentially all awards with appropriate redress available when violated. The real issue is large businesses not meeting the subcontracting plans that they bid as a required part of their large business awards. What a red herring that turns this on its head. Ridiculous, Mr. Mulvaney! Include the same penalties for large business violating the subcontracting plans!
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EA's POGO Games favorites now available on Android
EA Games popular online casual gaming site POGO Games has always been something I expected to land on Android eventually, and this week it finally has. No doubt you've played some of their online games such as Solitaire, Word Whomp and others on a family members computer. Now four of their classic hit games are available on Android in an all-in-one download.


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We had a great time here. It's brilliant for families. The pool for children is brilliant and they have a small indoor soft play area and they have children's activities throughout the day. The restaurant at times was overcrowded but on the whole the food was lovely. We were a party of 17 with 4 small children and they couldn't... More
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- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Expedia, Hotels.com, Travelocity, Venere and Tingo so you can book your Evenia Olympic Garden reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.
- Also Known As:
- Evenia Olympic Garden Hotel Lloret De Mar
- Evenia Olympic Garden Lloret De Mar, Costa Brava, Spain


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Hello, Thank you for visiting. I have a degree from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, I also Studied at Ohio State and The U. of Akron. I have my own Company to promote my Photography and Art work. In the past my work has been shown in Art Shows in PA, and Ohio. I was born in Cagliari, Italy and grew up in Steubenville, OH. I now reside in Akron, Ohio. Feel free to hit me up on FaceBook --> Marco Meyo
I couldn't be better if I were twins!! :-)
I hope to hear from you, Ciao Mien Baby....
Find me at: http://www.onemodelplace.com
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A policeman has shopped his teenage son in protest against Apple after the lad ran up a shock £3,700 bill playing games on his iPad.
Watchdogs have set out new rules for stopping in-app purchases from tricking kids into racking up huge bills.
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Chris Sloan, a longtime aviation writer, snagged one of the extremely rare tickets for ANA's inaugural passenger flight of Boeing's 787 Dreamliner. He shared the experience.
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Tornado Ball Training Update
Following my recent sledgehammer training update, I received a few inquiries from individuals who were interested in possible alternatives. They liked the idea of swinging a sledgehammer but didn't have a hammer or a place to swing it. Fortunately, it is not difficult to create an inexpensive work-around.
Below you can see the same homemade tornado ball that I first demonstrated on this site several years ago. It weighs 27 pounds and has been beaten over and over again. It is still holding up well.
The tornado ball started as a homemade medicine ball. The medicine ball consists of a basketball filled with sand. After filling the ball with sand, it was sealed with a flat tire repair kit. The basketball was then wrapped thoroughly in tape to strengthen the outer layer.
Next, the medicine ball was enclosed within a basketball net. The basketball net was then wrapped in strong gorilla duct tape. Lastly, I attached a handle to the end of the basketball net. The handle is simply an old pant leg that was thickened at the end with pipe insulation.
Don't Knock It Before You've Tried It
There is no denying that my tornado ball is as low-tech as anything I have ever built. It looks crazy and when I explain that the handle started as an old pair of pants, it sounds crazy as well. Most athletes who first see the tornado ball are probably wondering if I have a few screws loose in my head. Perhaps I do, but that doesn't take away from the effectiveness of this low-tech tool. A heavy tornado ball is excellent for explosiveness and conditioning.
A brief demonstration can be seen below.
As you can see, the tornado ball works well indoors or outdoors. When swinging the ball inside, I use a small piece of foam to absorb some of the impact. When using the ball outdoors, I swing it into a small hole that was formed by repeatedly pounding the ground with the ball.
For additional homemade equipment ideas, please refer to the following link:
The value of an idea lies in the using of it. – Thomas A. EdisonNo comments
Never Tired of Tire Training
If you know me, you know that I am a fan of simplicity. I am all for low-tech exercise solutions that won't break the bank. In fact, many of my favorite exercise tools have no monetary value. Such items are valuable to me, but I'd have a hard time giving them away on the side of the road.
Unfortunately, the lack of monetary value causes some people to automatically dismiss the potential of these low-tech tools. An old, used tire serves as a perfect example. Most people consider old tires to be worthless. If you told them that a tire could become a valuable training tool, they'd question your sanity.
Yet, within the past few weeks alone, I have shared three unique examples of tires being used as effective exercise tools. Each example includes a tire or set of tires that were acquired for free. Most tire shops have large piles of used tires that are awaiting disposal. These shops will be more than happy for you to take the old tires away. You are doing them a favor.
As for a recap of some recent examples, take a look below.
1. Sledgehammer Training
A tire can be used as a rebounder for sledgehammer training.
Related Article – Sledgehammer Training Update
2. Punching Bag
Tires can also be used to create a fully functional punching bag.
Related Article – How To Make A Homemade Punching Bag
3. Just a Tire
Tires can even be used on their own. You don't need to attach or bury anything. A simple tire can provide countless exercise options.
In summary, don't assume that low-tech training is naturally inferior. Just because a tool has no monetary value is irrelevant when considering its potential for exercise. And based on some recent statistics regarding obesity, the world could certainly use more inexpensive and readily available exercise options.
Clutter and confusion are failures of design, not attributes of information. – Edward Tuft1 comment
Core Training With Sliders – Update #2
Anyone who is familiar with this site knows that I am fan of homemade exercise equipment. Much of my gym is outfitted with homemade gear or items that I use for exercise that weren't intended for exercise. Perhaps my favorite example is the furniture slider. Furniture sliders double as a tremendous core training exercise tool.
I first demonstrated sliders on this site back in 2010. Following that original entry, I received several comments from readers of the site who questioned the product's durability. Considering that I purchased a 4-pack for only $10, many people assumed that the cheap price was too good to be true. They wondered if such an inexpensive product would even last a few months.
Initially, I had no idea how long the sliders would last. I was not in a position to comment. After a few years of regular use however, I filmed a follow up video. That video can be seen below. It was created two years ago this week (November 13th, 2012). An exercise demonstration begins at the 1:31 mark. You will several core training exercises, along with others that target the upper and lower body.
Still Sliding
Fortunately, I am happy to say that the same sliders are still going strong. The original $10 pack has withstood over 4 years of regular use. The simplicity of the tool has proved to be a plus for longevity. Since there is almost nothing to the sliders, there really isn't much that can go wrong with them.
What About Socks?
Whenever I share a slider video, someone asks if the same exercises can be replicated by with a pair socks. For example, rather than using sliders on carpet, some people wonder if socks will slide the same way on hard wood. My response to these inquiries is always the same. Socks will work to an extent.
The difference between a sock and slider is still significant however. I have used both and the sliders are infinitely more versatile and durable. You will not find a $10 pack of socks that will last over 4 years if you are regularly sliding on hard wood. The socks also aren't nearly as useful for many of the faster paced exercises that are available with sliders. The difference becomes even more evident when you add a drop of Rain-x to the sliders.
As I have discussed in previous tutorials, an occasional drop of Rain-x will increase the speed of the sliders. Rain-x is sold as a glass treatment for automobiles and can be purchased for a few dollars. A single container will last a year or more.
No Carpet? No problem!
If you do not have carpet in your home, you can still use sliders. I suggest purchasing a small strip of carpet. For less than $10, you can buy a piece of carpet that will be large enough for the sliders, yet small enough that you can roll it up when not in use. I keep an old piece of carpet in the gym that I unroll when we are using the sliders. I also have another 2 x 6 foot piece that fits in my gym bag. Whenever I am training an athlete elsewhere, the small strip of carpet becomes part of my portable gym.
Last but not least, I often receive questions about slider availability. In the US, sliders can be found at large stores such as Lowe's, Home Depot, K-mart, and Walmart.
If you live outside the USA, refer to the link below for advice from others around the world. There are several recommendations listed within the comments. You are also welcome to add additional comments if you have found other suppliers in your area.
Slider Availability Outside The USA
As for brand names, I purchased Waxman Super Sliders from Lowe's many years ago. The dimensions are 9-1/2 x 5-3/4 inches.
Upon checking prices today, a 4-pack at Lowe's is listed at $10.97. If I remember correctly, I purchased mine for $9.96. A one dollar increase in five years isn't too bad. As for cheaper brands, there certainly are others. For instance, Harbor Freight sells sliders for half the price. I have found the cheaper sliders to be inferior in terms of quality however. I would definitely suggest spending an extra few dollars to get the Waxman Super Sliders if possible. And for the record, I have no affiliation with the company. I am simply sharing what has worked well for me.
In summary, if you are looking for an excellent core training exercise tool, you really cannot go wrong with furniture sliders. They are inexpensive, effective, and easy to pack with you when traveling. My sliders have literally traveled around the world with me. I couldn't be happier with them.
For additional homemade equipment ideas, please refer to the following page:
The value of a thing is what that thing will bring.6 comments
Effective Training Does Not Require Complexity
Earlier this week, I wrote about the success of Mongolian athletes in judo (see here). As discussed throughout, the Mongolians work hard and possess extreme mental toughness. These athletes have excelled at the international level despite training with what some would describe as a rudimentary style. For example, in the documentary that I shared, you will see a group of athletes running a mountain and then performing pushups at the top. I'm guessing some readers were expecting a more elaborate approach.
To no surprise, it did not take long after I wrote the entry to find some snide remarks about it. One comment read as follows:
Running and pushups, yippee. Show me something that I don't know.
Complexity Does Not Equal Success
Some might argue that such comments are not worthy of attention, but if you overlook ignorance, you allow it to spread. One of the fundamental problems with the fitness industry today is the myth that more complexity equates to more success. This notion could not be further from the truth.
Flashy exercises may attract more attention, but rarely will such movements provide the benefits of those exercises that have stood the test of time. It is much easier to criticize a Mongolian athlete who runs and performs pushups than it is to get off your ass and join them. Anyone with a keyboard can become a critic. There are no other prerequisites. Unfortunately, banging on the keyboard will not improve your ability to run steep mountains and perform hundreds of pushups in the cold.
Knowledge Does Not Equal Power
Another myth that has been spread through the online era is that knowledge equals power. Regrettably, it will take more than knowledge for you to become stronger and better conditioned. Without action, knowledge will always be limited.
For instance, the pushup is perhaps the most recognizable exercise in the world. Almost every adult has performed a pushup at some point in their life. Yet how many adults are highly capable of performing continuous pushups? You'll be hard pressed to find even a handful of adults in everyday life that can perform 50 reps. In other words, knowledge of the pushup does not equate to performance with the pushup.
You Can't Handle The Truth
Jack Nicholson's famous line from A Few Good Men rings true for many exercise enthusiasts.
High levels of strength and endurance are rare. If you are genuinely strong or well conditioned, you are in the minority. Ironically, there is an abundance of information online about becoming stronger and better conditioned. Therefore, the problem is clearly not related to a lack of material. If anything, there may be too much information. Everyone and their brother seem to be inventing new exercises these days. I'd bet that more exercises have been invented for Instagram videos in the last year than the combined number of exercises created over the previous 100 years.
Most of the people inventing these ridiculous exercises don't actually train anyone however. They are more concerned about attracting attention than they are about developing real athletes. Unfortunately, the fitness novices of the world take the bait and fall into their trap. These individuals constantly seek out new exercises. Whatever they have seen or read is never enough. They always feel that they are missing what is necessary to become stronger or better conditioned.
The reality though is that they already have what they need. Lack of knowledge is not the problem. Instead, the problem lies within the individual. It is much easier to blame your failures on a lack of knowledge as opposed to a lack of effort. It's a hard pill to swallow for anyone to accept that they didn't put in the work. And that's why there will always be more people who are weak than those who are strong. It's human nature to place the blame elsewhere rather than looking in the mirror.
Training vs. Inventing
Real trainers are not paid to invent exercises. We are paid to develop and improve our athletes. With that in mind, we are certainly open to new ideas, but also cognizant of the fact that new ideas rarely replace those that have already proved to be effective. Speaking for myself, my training approach is clearly rooted in the fundamentals. I don't care if the exercises that we perform appear flashy or not. I'm not looking for style points and I don't care if the exercises are new or old. I am only concerned with what works. And in my 20+ years of training, I continually reap rewards from time tested exercises that would appear basic to many casual observers. What these observers fail to realize however is that your greatest effort will eventually succumb to even the most simplistic exercise.
When the Mongolians run hills and perform pushups, it may not look flashy but you can be sure that it is effective. No one will ever outgrow the fundamentals. These so-called basic exercises will eventually challenge even the most highly conditioned athletes in the world. As I've said before, how you do what you do matters more than what you do. The job of a trainer is to maximize the how you do part of the equation. Getting my athletes to apply more effort to basic exercises has always been a recipe for success.
Some athletes may initially doubt such an approach, but it doesn't take long from them to have a change of heart. I always enjoy working with new clients who have previously trained at state of the art facilities. I usually introduce them to my style by meeting them at the bottom of a mountain road. When they first see me, there is often a look of confusion. They aren't sure if it is some type of joke. It is at that point when I smile and start running. That's when they know it is for real. Once we are finished training at the top of the mountain, there is always a look of shock. They aren't sure what the heck just happened. And even if they did know, the lack of oxygen makes it difficult to formulate complete sentences.
That's when I smile again and welcome them to the old school.
Related Entry: Rooted in the Fundamentals
History is filled with brilliant people who wanted to fix things and just made them worse. – Chuck Palahniuk15 comments
Mongolia's Success In Judo
If you have followed this blog for any amount of time, you know that I am a fan of simplicity. I firmly believe that an athlete's strength and conditioning needs can be fulfilled without an elaborate facility or routine. I also believe it is important to observe and learn from other successful athletes. With that in mind, I was happy to watch the videos below.
The two videos analyze the success of judo in Mongolia. Plenty can be learned from these clips whether you are interested in judo or not.
At first glance, you may be wondering what's the big deal about Mongolian athletes excelling in judo? Before you close this entry, let me explain…
For starters, the entire country of Mongolia has a population of less than 3 million. To put that number in perspective, the small state of Massachusetts has more than twice the amount of people. In other words, the Mongolian athletes must be doing something right if so many are excelling from such a small population. These athletes have also managed to succeed without the elaborate facilities that are common in more densely populated areas.
What Is The Secret To Their Success?
Fortunately, there are no secrets. For starters, these athletes work extremely hard practicing their sport. They do not get sidetracked by too much supplemental work. The bulk of their time and energy is expended on the mats. That is where they master their techniques and also develop the ability to execute those techniques in the face of fatigue.
Many of these athletes have also developed strength from their surroundings. For example, in the second video, you will hear from one of the Mongolian champions (Khashbaataryn Tsagaanbaatar). At approximately the 4:30 mark, he states the following:
My muscle was developed in everyday life…
The narration continues by stating that many of the Mongolians have developed their legs by living in nature. They are regularly on the move and quite active outdoors. The Mongolians are hard working people who live the opposite of a sedentary lifestyle. Physical activity and work is part of their lives.
As for conditioning, these athletes work hard with the basics. If you refer to the 6:50 mark of the second video, you will see them about to begin a challenging mountain run. The air is both thin and cold but it does not deter them. These are not soft athletes who have been spoiled with lavish amenities. On the contrary, these Mongolians are hardened athletes who are physically and mentally strong.
In many ways, their training reminds me of another judo legend. Long time readers of the site may recall seeing a short documentary about the legendary Masahiko Kimura (see here). Kimura is considered by many to be the greatest judoka of all time. His training approach was also rooted heavily in sport training and low-tech conditioning. He did not just train the body, but also the mind. He pushed his athletes to levels that most people would struggle to comprehend.
Such an approach is certainly not required or suggested for general fitness, but is often necessary for high level combat athletes. Developing mental toughness is just as important as any physical quality. The body is only as strong as the mind that controls it. Once your mind starts to break, it is only a matter of time before the body does too. Training in harsh elements such as the cold allows one to develop the body and mind. It is impossible to separate the two when you are battling fatigue and the harsh elements around you. Speaking from experience, some of my most challenging conditioning sessions take place in the winter. I do not need any fancy exercises to create an extremely challenging session (ex. see here).
In summary, plenty can be learned by studying successful athletes who have thrived in rudimentary environments. Once all the gadgets and gizmos have been stripped away, you can see what really works and what is ultimately responsible for the success of such athletes. Hard work with the basics will always be a recipe that produces results.
I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures. – Lao Tzu2 comments