Tech

Fitness: These five resolutions are easy to keep – Peace River Record Gazette

Published

5 years ago

December 29, 2019

When it comes to forming an exercise habit, you have to walk before you can run. Which means setting yourself up for success with small but impactful strategies to get moving.

Congratulations if you managed to travel to and from the office all summer by bike.

John Mahoney / Montreal Gazette

It has been 12 months since you last vowed to get in the best shape of your life.

If you’re one of the few who ran their first marathon, completed that first set of unassisted pull-ups, put together 20 consecutive pushups or travelled to and from the office all summer by bike, then congrats, you’ve done what very few Canadians end up doing — making good on their annual New Year’s pledge to exercise regularly.

If you’re part of that other group of Canadians who were unsuccessful in realizing their promise to up their exercise game, maybe the fault wasn’t in your lack of execution but in the type of resolutions made.

When it comes to forming an exercise habit, you have to walk before you can run. Which means setting yourself up for success with small but impactful strategies to get moving. To get you started, here are five doable resolutions that are stepping stones to bigger, sweatier accomplishments.

Resolve to be consistent

Doing a little bit everyday is a better strategy than trying to play catchup for ambitious workouts that never happen. Ten, 20, 30 or 40 minutes of exercise have incredible value, so don’t downplay the effectiveness of short workouts that elevate your heart rate and put a little sweat on your brow.

Being flexible in how and where you exercise is another tip toward greater consistency — especially if your daily schedule is subject to change or can get packed with commitments quicker than it takes to pull on your exercise gear. On days when exercise seems out of reach, lace up a pair of running shoes and jog up and down the stairs for a few minutes. Or head outside for a 15- to 20-minute speed walk. The idea is to make exercise as much a part of your daily routine as your commute.

Resolve to get up and out of that chair

In most workplaces, sitting in front of a screen is the norm. But it’s exactly that type of sedentary culture that has systematically increased waistlines around the world.

Use a timer as a reminder to get up and move every hour. Walk down the hall to speak to a colleague, refill your water bottle or stroll around the office and stretch your legs. The body is meant to move, which is why it starts to protest if the number of hours spent sedentary per day extends into the double digits — which isn’t hard to do considering the amount of time spent sitting during the daily commute, at the office and in front of the television. Movement of any type puts to good use all the body’s biggest muscles, which are far too powerful and important to be left idle.

Resolve to always have a workout at the ready

If time is short, don’t waste a minute figuring out how you’re going to work up a sweat. Have a few workout routines ready to go at all times so you can get right to it when the opportunity presents itself. Or download an app like the 7 Minute Workout or Nike Training Club and choose the workout that best suits your schedule. And remember, not all workouts have to look and feel the same, so if it’s more of a yoga day than a HIIT day, so be it.

The same ‘always be at the ready’ principle also applies to your workout gear. Have a full kit tucked away somewhere in your office so you don’t need to fuss when you’ve got a few minutes to steal away. While you’re at it, find a spot for a yoga mat so if all else fails, a few sun salutations will get the blood flowing and the heart pumping.

Resolve to find a workout buddy

If you’re finding it tough to follow through on your workout goals, guaranteed there’s a friend or co-worker who shares the same difficulty in execution. Ask around and see if anyone is looking for an exercise buddy and make a pact to cajole, push and encourage each other to get a workout in, even when the other doesn’t feel like it. It won’t be long before you come to appreciate having someone who challenges you when you’re low on energy, listens when you need to blow off steam and shares a chuckle when it has been a while between belly laughs — all wonderful motivators to pulling on your exercise clothes and working out together.

Resolve to challenge yourself

Sure, a moderate intensity workout delivers the type of health benefits for which exercise is lauded, but researchers are discovering that repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise as short as 10-15 seconds can further boost health and fitness benefits. But beyond the physiological, there are also psychological advantages to venturing — even briefly — into that uncomfortable zone. Studies on adherence note that exercisers feel a greater sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when they feel challenged. Too easy a workout quickly becomes boring. Whereas a tough workout demands concentration and determination, which when finished results in a sense of accomplishment strong enough to make you want to do it all again the next day.

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

4 weeks ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.