Men’s health and fertility experts insist that male fertility is intricately linked to lifestyle choices where small changes can have a profound impact. Hence, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for male reproductive health.
Experts reveal how men can optimise their reproductive health(Photo by Pexels)
Are your lifestyle choices killing your sperm?
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr KU Kunjimoideen, Regional Medical Director at Birla Fertility and IVF | ARMC IVF, shared, “Amongst the male partners facing issues with fertility, a common trend we’ve observed is obesity caused due to sedentary lifestyle and lack of good sleep. Smoking, alcohol abuse and chronic stress are known to significantly lower sperm count, motility and morphology, directly reducing fertility potential. Diets high in processed foods and dietary patterns further contribute to oxidative stress, damaging sperm DNA.”
Steroids, certain supplements impact male infertility. Here’s how to recover sperm count in men (Photo by Victor Freitas on Unsplash)
He suggested, “Men can improve their reproductive health by adopting regular exercise, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and antioxidants and by avoiding environmental toxins such as pesticides and heavy metals. They need to have regular check ups to prevent or for early treatments to prevent conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Reducing exposure to heat (from laptops or saunas) and cutting down on smoking and alcohol can also optimise sperm quality, enhancing fertility outcomes.”
Small lifestyle tweaks to double your fertility potential:
Bringing her expertise to the same, Dr Sutopa Banerjee, Director and Unit Head – Deptt Of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Fortis Hospital and Director – Complete Care for Women at Advanced Obs-Gyn and Fertility Clinic in Delhi’s Vasant Kunj, recommended, “A balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and antioxidants like vitamins C and E supports good sperm production. Men should avoid smoking, alcohol and substance abuse, as these can damage sperm count, motility, and testosterone levels.”
Yoga exercises can help boost fertility(Photo by Andrea Piacquadio)
She cautioned, “Regular, moderate exercise is beneficial but excessive physical activity or heat exposure can harm sperm production. Stress management, safe sexual practices, and avoiding environmental toxins are also important for fertility. Consulting a physician about medications is essential for those looking to optimize their reproductive health.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
This is often a time when men are trying to safeguard a career, buy a property or keep on top of a mortgage, build a family and maintain relationships. Not only can stress negatively affect your sleep, sex life, immune system, gut health, heart rate and blood pressure, it can also increase your risk of depression. While other factors come into play — alcohol and substance abuse, loneliness, relationship breakdown — in the UK and New Zealand suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50.
Last year, the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) launched their Raise campaign to help identify depression in men. The acronym, which aims to point out the five signs of depression, stands for risk-taking, anger, isolation, substance abuse and exhaustion.
Anthony Davis, a BACP-accredited psychotherapist and contributor to the campaign, says: “There is often pressure on men in these age groups to have everything sorted, professionally and personally. But when they feel they are not living up to their potential, depression can take hold. And if fathers and grandfathers haven’t been open with their emotions, perhaps believing it’s not masculine to talk, this example often gets passed on to the next generation. When difficult feelings are not expressed, they can surface in anger, risky living or acute anxiety.”
According to the BACP, 56% of therapists agree that men are less likely to get support than women. It helps to talk. Speak to those close to you, or a charity such as the Samaritans, or a professional therapist. Anthony Davis says: “It’s important to express these difficult emotions and bring them to the surface in a trusted environment so they can become more manageable.”
Overeating, drinking and a sedentary lifestyle can also be a by-product of stress. Set up the right habits to support your needs. Thibo David, a performance coach, adds: “Studies show that exercise reduces symptoms of anxiety by 22-48%, bolstering resilience against stress.”
Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 in both the UK and New Zealand. Photo / 123rf
In your 50s and 60s
Look out for… prostate cancer, high blood pressure and high cholesterol
No one knows your body like you do, so try to pick up on warning signs before it’s too late. If anything feels unusual, a follow-up with your GP will generally set your mind at rest and further concerns can be investigated. A simple blood test can detect high cholesterol, high blood pressure, anaemia, poor liver function and diabetes.
Prostate cancer occurs in more than 28% of men, so be aware of any changes, such as difficulty when peeing. Often this is caused by non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, but you may need a PSA test, which measures the levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA), a protein in the blood.
Dr Anthony Cunliffe, the lead medical adviser at Macmillan Cancer Support, says: “Prostate cancer is usually found in the older age bracket, but certain groups are at risk of diagnosis at a younger age, mainly black men and men with a family history of earlier age cancer. Many men still think diagnosis is all about a rectal examination and this puts them off going to the doctor. Empowering men to talk about it with each other is another really important element.”
Dr Hayley Luxton, a senior research impact and intelligence manager at Prostate Cancer UK, adds: “Prostate cancer often has no symptoms in its earlier, more treatable stages, so it’s crucial for a man to understand his own risk. You can do this right now, using Prostate Cancer UK’s 30-second risk checker. The earlier you catch prostate cancer, the easier it is to treat it.”
Coronary heart disease is the biggest killer of men (one in eight male deaths). The warning signs are chest pains (angina) when blood flow to the heart is reduced. You might also experience pain or discomfort in your shoulders, neck, arm, or even your jaw. If in doubt, check it out.
The health plan
Cleaning up your act will quickly show benefits. Improve your diet consciously — men should not be eating more than 30g of saturated fat a day, preferably they should consume less. And while the salt guideline for adults is no more than 6g a day, men tend to consume 9.2g a day on average.
Bridget Benelam, a nutrition scientist at the British Nutrition Foundation, says: “Only a third of men are meeting the five-a-day recommendation and only 12% meet fibre recommendations of having 30g a day. Men are more likely than women to be overweight or obese and the proportion of men who are overweight increases with age. With men over 45 years, about 80% are overweight or obese. In one recent study, people who followed the healthiest diets reduced [their] risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 21%.”
It is also worth moderating your alcohol intake — previous opinion claimed that a glass of red wine was a healthier choice (because of its antioxidants) but now the World Health Organisation (WHO) states that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.
Lung cancer causes the highest number of cancer-related deaths among men, with smoking being a major contributor. Photo / 123rf
In your 70s and 80s
Look out for… an accumulation of symptoms
When you hit your latter years, the GP’s surgery can become overly familiar, but that is no reason to ignore what is going on. Cases of prostate and lung cancer are high in UK males, with nine in 10 (prostate) and eight in 10 (lung) deaths in those aged 65 and over. Age is the main risk factor. Heart disease increases, too, so watch your intake of salt, sugar, and saturated fats.
Alex Denning, an NHS doctor and the co-founder of Progevity, a new protein drink for adults aged 50 and above, says: “Evidence shows consumption of whey protein lowers blood sugar levels and improves insulin response, which has beneficial effects on cardiovascular and arterial health. It has also been shown to improve blood pressure, decrease arterial stiffness, reduce unhealthy lipids and increase healthy lipids in our blood. All of these changes in our body will allow us to stave off poor heart health, remain active and disease-free longer.”
Unfortunately, lung cancer is still the leading cause of cancer-related death among men, and almost two-thirds of cases are caused by smoking. Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), a health charity, says that in 2022, 14.6% of men smoked (compared to 11.2% of women).
Sophia Lowes, a senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, says: “Stopping smoking completely is the best thing you can do for your cancer risk and overall health. Common symptoms of lung cancer include a new cough or a cough that doesn’t go away after a few weeks, getting out of breath more than usual, and coughing up blood in your phlegm. If you notice something that’s not right for you, talk to your GP. It probably won’t be cancer, but if it is, spotting it early means that treatment is more likely to be successful.”
The health plan
Keep exercising. It’s never not too late to lift weights and strength training helps with cognitive ability, cardiovascular health and bone density. Thibo David adds: “Plus it supports your balance and mobility”.
“Stronger muscles keep us upright and prevent debilitating falls. I worked with an 83-year-old client who saw remarkable improvements through regular resistance training. His strength gains and mental clarity were clear indicators of the profound benefits of muscle engagement in later life.”
Also, while the passing of time isn’t for the faint-hearted, maintaining a positive mindset has been shown to improve overall health. Feeling lonely, especially after the loss of a partner, is not uncommon; while dealing with ageing, a long-term illness or the end of a career can push the most stoic of folk towards depression. Again, there is no age limit on seeking support.
Anthony Davis says: “While it might not be easy for men of this generation to speak openly about their feelings, shutting down emotionally can affect their physical health as well as their mental health. I have supported older male clients in my practice and seen the incredible benefit they get from sharing their emotions and experiences. It can bring great comfort and insight to have a safe space to be their authentic selves.”
By implementing these lifestyle changes, men in their 30s can significantly improve their overall health, increase longevity, and enhance their quality of life.
Staying properly hydrated is essential for overall health
Turning 30 is a significant milestone in a man’s life. While it’s a time to celebrate, it also serves as a reminder to prioritize health and well-being. A healthy body is one of the best gifts a man can give himself. By adopting healthy eating habits, engaging in regular exercise, ensuring proper sleep, and integrating a combination of these practices, small steps can lead to significant improvements in overall wellness. Implementing these habits not only enhances health but also reduces the risk of illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.
Discover eight simple lifestyle changes every man should consider after turning 30 to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Maintain muscle massAfter the age of 30, men naturally experience a decline in muscle mass, averaging a loss of 3-5% per decade, according to Harvard Health Publishing. To combat this, men should engage in strength training at least twice a week. Incorporate activities like weightlifting or resistance exercises to maintain muscle strength and functionality. A diet rich in protein—featuring lean meats, dairy, legumes, and nuts—can also help preserve muscle mass.
Drink Plenty of WaterStaying properly hydrated is essential for overall health. Water aids digestion and supports muscle function, so aim to drink plenty throughout the day to keep your body running smoothly. Insufficient hydration can lead to headaches, dry skin, and fatigue.
Monitor Waist SizeAs metabolism slows with age, many individuals tend to gain weight, particularly around the abdominal area. Monitoring waist size is crucial, as an increase can elevate the risk of health issues like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. To maintain a healthy waist size, focus on balanced nutrition and regular exercise, incorporating moderate physical activity or breathing exercises each week. Emphasize whole foods—fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—while reducing processed foods, sugary drinks, and excess salt.
Prioritize Heart HealthAs men age, prioritizing heart health becomes increasingly important due to the rising risk of heart disease associated with high cholesterol and blood pressure. Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into your diet by eating fish or taking supplements, and engage in regular physical activity. Managing stress through enjoyable hobbies can also support cardiovascular health.
Enhance Mental HealthMental well-being is as vital as physical fitness, yet it often takes a back seat. Men should prioritize self-care activities, such as journaling, mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies that bring joy. Regularly connecting with friends and family can also foster better mental health.
Quit Smoking and DrinkingBoth smoking and excessive alcohol consumption pose serious health risks, especially after 30. Studies indicate that quitting smoking and drinking before the age of 40 significantly reduces the risk of premature death; quitting by age 54 can cut that risk by two-thirds. Your body will undoubtedly thank you for making these changes.
Achieve Work-Life BalanceWhile the hustle mentality may have defined your 20s, it’s essential to strive for a healthy work-life balance in your 30s. Spend quality time with friends and family, engage in hobbies, and take time for refreshing vacations to recharge.
Get Quality SleepAim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. A consistent sleep schedule not only enhances mental health but also contributes to physical well-being, promoting recovery and muscle building.
By implementing these lifestyle changes, men in their 30s can significantly improve their overall health, increase longevity, and enhance their quality of life.
South Carolina has the shortest odds at +150 to win it again.
Men’s national championship betting
Both UConn and Kansas have seen their odds improve since opening last spring. The Huskies opened at +1200, while the Jayhawks opened at +1100.
While those two teams have the shortest odds, they are not the most popular team among bettors.
Duke (+900) is drawing the most money (14.5%) on the most tickets (13.3%). UConn is next, drawing the second-most money (13.8%) on the second-most tickets (10.4%). Kansas rounds out the top three with 8.5% of the money on 9.9% of the tickets.
South Carolina has the shortest odds, but bettors don’t seem to be expecting them to win again. The defending champions are taking in the fourth-most money (14.2%) on the fourth-most tickets (10.5%).
UConn (+375), USC (+375) and Notre Dame (+900) are all more popular.
The Huskies are drawing the second-most money (21.7%) on the most tickets (23.8%), while the Trojans are drawing the most money (25.3%) on the second-most tickets (12.4%). The Fighting Irish are pulling in the third-most money (17.3%) on the third-most bets (12.4%).
Texas (+600) has better odds than Notre Dame, but are only taking in 4.8% of the bets and 1.7% of the money.
RJ Davis of North Carolina and Mark Sears of Alabama are +700, while Hunter Dickinson of Kansas is +750. No other player is less than +1100.
Sears is bringing in a massive 29.3% of the money on the second-most bets (13.2%). Dickinson is drawing the most bets (14%), but only 5% of the money. Davis is taking in 5.3% of the bets and 12.1% of the money.
Cooper Flagg of Duke will be added to the mix once he turns 18 on Dec. 21.
___
This column was provided to The Associated Press by BetMGM online sportsbook.
It all started with an ambitious shopping list of a woman looking for a husband that my friend sent to me. The single and searching woman wanted a man who can cook, earns ten million naira monthly and is good in bed, of course. The lucky dude should be handsome, romantic and God-fearing. I responded to my friend that “It’s a legitimate list”. No, “it’s illegitimate”, he responded. How? He zeroed in on the “good in bed” part. He insisted that ‘good in bed’ is relative. I vehemently disagreed. If a man is not good in bed, he’s not good in bed. Even he will know. A good lover proudly flaunts his prowess. He does not leave his woman in doubt. A man once told me that the best way to shut the mouth of an angry woman is by thoroughly ravishing her.
‘Take her as many times as possible. Let her pant, sweat and run away from the bedroom. Do her well. I don’t understand men who say their wives are angry with them, keeping malice with them for weeks. If you are making love with her regularly, the matter will settle.’
Now, that’s a man who can give a good account of himself. If he’s not good in bed, how will Madam feel the heat? If a man is a once-in-a-while or monthly lover, how can he thoroughly ‘do’ his wife? So, I told my friend, the definition of ‘good in bed’ is clear. At least, if the man doesn’t know, his woman will know, and we are the one who grade men. My friend must have gotten a tiny bit angry.
‘Wetin? Shouldn’t a woman be good in bed too??? Note the three question marks. Mark of anger, I know.
Okay, both man and woman should be above average and meet each other halfway in bed.
‘We men labour too hard on you women’
Imagine! So women don’t labour hard under men?
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That’s when he threw in the Apala Maestro, Ayinla Omowura’s line.
‘Pekele pekele, ise oru kii se ise kekere”
I laughed out loud. Translation: ‘The work that men do at night is a lot of work, it’s not child’s play’
Seriously, do men do all the work? No, it’s a partnership. It’s a joint venture. That’s what makes a ‘night shift’ sweet. Sure, in most cases, on many nights, men do the ‘heavy lifting’ but my friend insists that it is the hard work that shortens the life-span of men. In other words, sex kills men. Without saying it in so many words, my friend was saying. ‘Only men die during sex.’ Trust me, I fired back.
‘Women die in action too’
He retorted, ‘women die of excitement, not exhaustion’. See me see trouble, what’s the difference? Both excitement and exhaustion can wear out. Orgasms can make the heart fail and we all have hearts, right?
I must, however, reluctantly agree that more men die during and after sex than women. Maybe we are more careful and do not have sex to impress.
Men should really watch their bad habit of wanting to ‘go harder’ even when their bodies are balking. Why should a man die trying to impress a woman? Those who have been reading me know that I do not support men dying in active service. All smart men should serve diligently but leave the arena alive. That way they can serve some more. It is absolutely unwise to die on the pitch.
Think of it, if a man who is in the service of three to four women die in the bed of one of them, how fair is that? What becomes of the other parties? They all start looking for new investors? No, it’s not right.
But on a serious note, nobody should die having sex, man or woman. The reason why more men die in active service is because they do not listen to me. They do not listen to logic. The duties of a man outside the bedroom are already plenty. To fend for and defend a family is already a lot of work. The hours a man puts into their careers and businesses all day is enough to kill a horse. Add that to the number of things he has to worry about. The number of people waiting on him to fix their problems. His life after hours of work should be relaxing and pleasureable. It should not be about overreaching himself. It should not be about popping blue pills. But who is listening to me or heeding this sane advice? Not the older men. No, they want to win sex championship. They want to impress their sweet sixteens. It is their way of convincing themselves that they are enjoying life. If you ask me, sex championship men confuse me just like the ones who drink wine or whiskey that is not sweet, beer that smells and looks like urine and everything that gives them pounding heads or hefty headache the following morning . I’ll never understand how all that mean enjoyment. Lagos people call it ‘Faaji’. How is pain pleasurable unless a few screw are loose or loosening in your head or mind?
Enough of the digression. Let’s leave the Faaji men to their enjoyment and their blue pills. I hear women are doing it too, mixing stuff, popping pills, drinking herbs to enjoy sex. What’s going on here? I also heard that it is not just to satisfy their husbands, that these women are doing sex till death. It is the thing about the ‘forbidden’ apple and dying in active service that we cannot ignore. Note, you rarely hear men dying on top of the women they married, the real owner of the equipment. Now the women are also titrating chemicals to satisfy men who are not their husbands. I hope we are all appropriately and adequately shocked.
Imagine this, a mother of five died somewhere in Ekiti after sex with her lover. The heartless bloke dragged her body into the bush and dumped her there. Another one died and was left to be discovered by hotel cleanerd.
Now , I’m not insisting that all sex-till-death are consequences of blue pills and sachet concoction. Indeed, I am more concerned with the carelessness and levity with which we all treat our health generally
As we get on in years, we all should reduce the number of times we go to battle. A wise warrior knows when to step back and acknowledge his humanity. No man is cut or designed to do the things he used to do at age 30; no, not at 65. If he tries it, he may end up at best in the intensive care unit. Chances that he will end up in the morgue is quite high.
As for my ladies, stop ‘falling my hand’ by letting a man, or worse still, a small boy, drive you to death. If you love a particular dish or meal, you do not and should not eat it all in one sitting. Eat slowly, neatly and nicely so you can eat for a long time. Don’t gulp it or you will choke and when you do, there will be no tomorrow.
My guys, my girls, make sure you are in good shape for physical exercise. Check your blood pressure , heart rate before you convince yourself that you are fit for sex. Don’t kill yourself trying to prove a foolish point to people who will turn around to mock you for expiring in a woman’s secret place
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Foods that help you lose weight, maintain weight, or just keep up your energy work differently for different people. While each person’s dietary requirements are unique, a lot of it can depend on your sex. According to a new study from the University of Waterloo, men’s and women’s metabolisms respond differently to foods. This knowledge can help you choose foods that boost your metabolism better, which will boost your weight loss journey and positively impact your health and energy levels.
The study, which employed a mathematical model of men’s and women’s metabolisms, found that men’s metabolisms respond better on average to “a meal laden with high carbohydrates after fasting for several hours, while women are better served by a meal with a higher percentage of fat.”
“The results of the model suggest that women store more fat immediately after a meal but also burn more fat during a fast,” said Anita Layton, a professor of Applied Mathematics and Canada 150 Research Chair in Mathematical Biology and Medicine. Also Read:Want To Lose Weight? Here’s Why You Should Be Eating More Beans
Based on the study findings, here are some healthy breakfast options for both women and men.
Breakfast Options for Women:
Photo: iStock
1. Chia Pudding:
Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients, providing high fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Soak these overnight in milk and enjoy them for breakfast in the morning. You can also add a little honey and top it with berries and nuts.
2. Veggie Egg Omelette:
Whip up a quick and filling vegetable omelette for breakfast. Eggs are rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and overall strength. Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes will enhance taste and nutrients in your morning meal.
3. Paneer With Flax Seeds And Apples:
Cut paneer into strips, top it with crunchy flax seeds, and sprinkle salt and pepper. Pair with fresh apple slices. Paneer is a great source of protein and calcium, while flax seeds provide omega-3s and fibre. Apples add a natural sweetness and are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Breakfast Options for Men:
Photo: iStock
1. Oatmeal:
Oats will provide you with sustained energy throughout the day. You can make either milk-based oats with nuts, seeds, and fruit toppings, or vegetable oats with mild spices, carrots and peas.
2. Smoothie:
A smoothie is an easy way to pack in a variety of nutrients. Make a well-balanced smoothie by combining spinach, banana, protein powder, and almond butter.
3. Yoghurt Bowl:
This breakfast option is quick and easy to prepare. Yoghurt is a rich source of protein and probiotics. Take Greek yoghurt and top it will antioxidants-rich berries and mixed nuts. Also Read:5 Smart Ways To Transform Dahi Kebab Into A Weight-Loss-Friendly Snack
The researchers note that this study builds on an existing gap in research on sex differences in how men and women process fat. “We often have less research data on women’s bodies than on men’s bodies,” said Professor Layton. “By building mathematical models based on the data we do have, we can test lots of hypotheses quickly and tweak experiments in ways that would be impractical with human subjects.”
Going forward, the researchers hope to build more complex versions of their metabolism models by incorporating other considerations such as an individual’s weight, age, or stage in the menstrual cycle.
Elton Welsby has claimed ‘women commentators are not as good as men’, but the former television presenter wouldn’t ban them from sports broadcasts.
Welsby was best known as a presenter and featured on several popular sports programmes during the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, including Match Night, Match Time and On the Ball.
He also made up part of the ITV team that covered both the Euros and World Cups between 1982 and 1992, as well as occasionally covering the Olympic Games, when they were broadcast on the channel.
Welsby certainly knows a thing or two about sports broadcasting, but he believes the industry has taken a turn for the worse.
Slamming the role of female commentators on male events, Welsby told The Telegraph: “I was brought up on Hugh Johns and Brian Moore. They had just the perfect voices for live television commentary.
“The voice would rise with the crescendo of the crowd when the goal is scored. The crowd erupts and they are with them. I don’t think the lady commentators can do that, they don’t have the same voice. But good luck to them.”
He continued: “Maybe half the audience are ladies and they prefer that, it’s just personal – nothing more. If I was head of Sky Sports or BBC Sport or ITV Sport I wouldn’t say ‘ban lady commentators’, they deserve their chance.
“But it is like watching women’s football or rugby – I choose not to watch it but I don’t condemn them for doing it. It is subjective. That is not getting me in trouble at all.”
Welsby hasn’t been afraid to speak out against the new landscape of sports media, having previously blasted one of his former employers.
During an interview with The Daily Express in 2015, Welsby claimed Soccer Sunday – a programme he anchored for Granada – was “a poor show with poor content and poor journalistic standards.”
But Welsby did admit he wishes he was given a longer shot at the top prior to Sky Sports taking a stranglehold on the industry in 1992.
On his time as a presenter, Welsby added: “In terms of the live football, I think I was cut off in my prime.
“After Euro 92 where I had lived with Big Jack [Charlton] and we were presenting live with no London back-up.
“It was all presented from the ground with me and Big Jack. I felt visually and mentally I was at my prime. I still had eight more years at Granada.
“Who knows? Had ITV still had the exclusive contract, I’m not saying I would be doing it to this day. But there comes a time when ‘are you eye-candy?’ No you’re not. Let’s get someone who is.”
BYU football players warm up before the Big 12 game against Kansas State at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
Aaron Cornia, BYU Photo
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BYU football players prepare to take the field before the Big 12 game against Kansas State at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
Jaren Wilkey, BYU Photo
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BYU senior defensive lineman Tyler Batty greets fans before the Big 12 game against Kansas State at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
BYU football players warm up before the Big 12 game against Kansas State at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
BYU football players prepare to take the field before the Big 12 game against Kansas State at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
BYU senior defensive lineman Tyler Batty greets fans before the Big 12 game against Kansas State at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
Bye weeks are great for a college football team when it comes to getting healthy, but they can also throw off a team’s rhythm.
BYU needs to look no further than 2023 to see that.
The Cougars had a solid 4-1 record that September with an SEC road win at Arkansas and a 1-0 record in the new Big 12 (beating Cincinnati at home) as they headed into a bye week in the first week of October.
Two weeks later, BYU took the field in Fort Worth and got hammered, 44-11, by TCU. The Cougars would only win one more game the rest of the season.
BYU also has another warning flag to worry about.
FOX Sports announced Monday that its Saturday show Big Noon Kickoff will be coming to Provo on Saturday prior to the game between the Cougars and Arizona at LaVell Edwards Stadium (2 p.m. MT, FOX).
The last time a similar show came to town was in 2009 when BYU hosted the Horned Frogs and ESPN’s College GameDay made the trip. TCU won that game as well, 38-7.
Maybe it’s good the Cougars aren’t playing the Horned Frogs this week.
So how is the 2024 BYU team planning to counter those concerns?
Cougar head coach Kalani Sitake said in Monday’s press teleconference that the key is focus, hard work and staying in the same routine.
“Our rhythm has been the same,” Sitake said. “It was a work week for us last week. The only difference is that we didn’t play a game. We try to find ways to get them in great shape, and also give them time to heal as well. Our preparation has been pretty good right now.”
He’s always going to celebrate the wins, but he’s determined to keep the BYU players from getting carried away.
“We are in the position that we thought we would be,” Sitake said. “I’m excited for the fans and our families. We are grateful to have FOX come in and experience BYU Football. It’s great for everybody, but we embrace it by going to work. We’ve done a great job with that so far every week, and I don’t see our mentality changing this week. This team is led by the players and I expect them to get it done. They can be distractions if you allow them to be.”
BYU junior wide receiver Keelan Marion said that the guys don’t talk much about last year but they are aware of how things fell apart after the bye week.
“We told ourselves we know what happened last year after the bye week, so we came in over the weekend and got our stuff done,” Marion said. “We went over some film and did everything we could to make sure we stayed on top of things for this weekend.”
He said that while they appreciate the national attention and having FOX Sports in town, the team is just going to go about its business and “pretend like they’re not there.”
That personifies the mentality that has become one of the hallmarks of Cougar football this year, one that is all about taking care of business.
“I think that’s been huge this year,” BYU senior defensive lineman Logan Lutui said. “We don’t look at any game as a big game because we approach each week as if that’s the biggest game of the year, and I think that’s something the coaches have been really dialed in on. I think it’s been a good focus for us this year and the team has been bought-in on it.”
Cougar senior defensive back Marque Collins joined the team this year, so he’s had a chance to see how that approach has been drilled into the players.
“I think it’s attention to detail every week, through every position group,” Collins said. “If we can take on the little things how we should, that gives us the best chance of having the season we want to have. It’s not always about the big things that everybody sees.”
His point is that BYU wants to make the most of every opportunity, which in turn will result in the increased attention.
“It’s not too much about Big Noon Kickoff, and it shouldn’t be,” Collins said. “I think that’s more for the fans. It’s great recognition, obviously, but we’re not too worried about it.”
Here is the complete release from BYU about FOX Sports’s Big Noon Kickoff coming to Provo:
“FOX Sports announced today that its popular national pregame television show Big Noon Kickoff will broadcast live from BYU on Saturday, Oct. 12, beginning at 8 a.m. MDT. No. 14 BYU will host Arizona in the Cougars’ annual homecoming game at 2 p.m. MDT on FOX.
“Making its first-ever trip to the state of Utah, the two-hour Big Noon Kickoff pregame show and tailgate party will be held in the west parking lot of LaVell Edwards Stadium. Set at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Edwards Stadium is one of the most picturesque settings in college football.
“Big Noon Kickoff, hosted by Rob Stone along with analysts Mark Ingram II, Matt Leinart, Urban Meyer and Brady Quinn, provides a preview of the day’s top games live from college campuses across the nation. Saturday’s show will also include detailed analysis and coverage of the Big 12 matchup between BYU (5-0, 2-0) and Arizona (3-2, 1-1).
“‘We are excited to welcome FOX Big Noon Kickoff to Provo,’ said Tom Holmoe, BYU director of athletics. ‘It’s a great opportunity for BYU to showcase our football program, the ROC, Cougar Nation and the incredible atmosphere of football game day at LaVell Edwards Stadium. On behalf of BYU, I would like to thank FOX Sports as well as Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark and his staff for this tremendous opportunity. We look forward to an exciting day of football.’
“Additional details about FOX Big Noon Kickoff at BYU will be announced during the week at byucougars.com and through BYU football social media channels.
“Cougar Nation is encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the tailgate festivities, including live music, interactive games and special guest appearances.”
Of all the things I thought would happen to me on a Sunday, getting involved in a fistfight to the death was not what I had in mind.
Here’s what happened. I was in Ruaka because someone’s daughter complained that I do not see her enough, so I needed to “unpack” that. She said she would make chapatis. “Na kuku ya kienyeji – your style.” She’s a Delilah this one and she can shave my hair anytime.
Anyway, as I made an illegal turn onto Northern Bypass Road, maybe due to absent-mindedness or the demonic nature of driving in Kenya, I didn’t put my blinkers on. Unbeknown to me, a nduthi guy had been tailgating.
As I turned, he screeched to a halt and froze, his nduthi shaking from the near miss. The only time I have seen a man angrier than that was when Wachira, our high school chef, was ordered to serve us more food after we reported him to the principal.
On principle, though, I was the one in the wrong—with the nduthi, not Wachira. On the bright side, at least he had good brakes.
This will sound wrong but we all know nduthi guys share one brain so when I stopped the car to assess the damage, he blocked me. He was frothing from the mouth, his hand in a fist while removing his helmet, and tying his hair in a cute ponytail. When a Rasta man ties his hair behind his back, that is a declaration of war. I held my breath. He approached the car. I waited.
My man card had expired at that time, and so, lowering my windows I told him, “Buda, iza. Makosa ni yangu.” He threw a few f-bombs, saying, “Kwani hamutuheshimu sisi watu wa boda boda?” I said, me, personally, siwaheshimu; but Jesus held my tongue.
My mouth just mumbled, “Pole manze. Makosa ni yangu.” He grated and berated and ranted and all I was thinking about is, damn, what if they finish the chapos before I get there?
Life’s mysteries get no deeper than a 90-kilogram man with dreadlocks shouting at you while all you are thinking about is how many chapos he can fit in his mouth in that molten rage, believe me.
So that I don’t bore you with minutiae, I came clean, told him, I am not emotionally sane at this point. Can I come out of the car you hug me? He said what? I said, I need a hug. He said, you’re weird. “Wacha ushebedu.” Then he burst out into laughter.
He laughed and laughed and laughed. I started laughing. He told me his name is Mark.
I told him my name is Jonte because a) that is my brother’s name and b) my brother is always in trouble. Might as well add this to his repertoire. Mark told me he was going to pick his wife. I told him I was lost; someone’s daughter had sent me locations to her place, and the AI lady in my phone was currently filing for emotional torture on account of that road.
This is why no one should live in Ruaka, or drive to Ruaka, except anyone who lives in Ruaka. Ruaka, like the Kamulu-Joska-Chokaa axis, should be cordoned off and declared a national site for human biological experiments. Where was I? Oh yes.
Mark and I became friends, he directed me to where the apartments were, his mouth dangerously if not suspiciously close to mine so much I could pick up the alcohol in his breath—and was that supu ya mbuzi? We (he) agreed to be both better drivers, and I asked him to take care of his wife for me. You know what I mean.
When I told this story to someone’s daughter, I left out the part of Mark threatening to cut my hair (an atrocity) or beating me up (a bigger atrocity), I told her, huyo jamaa angeniona! He would never ride a nduthi in this town again! Do you know who I am! Self-identity issues aside, your woman should always think you are Superman, even on the days you are Clark Kent.
That you are Stevo “Makmende” Otero, even when you’d just rather be Stivo Simple Boy. What I also did not tell her is that Mark confessed he was on to his second marriage. He wanted this one to work.
I asked him why. He said because he hates being a failure. I said it is the marriage that fails, not the person. He said labda, hizi vitu hazina formula.
Mark doesn’t know what he did to me that day. Despite it being matatu sticker wisdom, Hizi vitu hazina formula really stuck with me.
For a long time I have tried to live my life within certain precincts: Milestones that would announce I am making it big in the city—a degree by 24 (done!), a Murima babe by 26 (uhm…) a car by 29 (done!), a baby by 30 and another one on the way, and perhaps a house in the village which I shall never visit but shall randomly throw in conversations during bar talk—monuments that would earn me a status, or a slow smile, an approving nod from an adult. Confirmations that I was adultlike, not childlike.
So far, life has thrown me certain curve balls, and my hip reflexes just aren’t what they used to be.
I wonder how many men struggle with the same. The other day, a friend of a friend, who hopefully won’t read this paper, lost his job but couldn’t bring himself to tell the wife.
Some Makmende brouhaha of trying to be a hero. He was feeling rather ashamed of his situation and I tried to talk him out of it, mostly because my beer was getting flat and, however salty the tears, they do not make a worthy replacement for table salt on the nyama choma. I’d want to lie to you and say I checked up on him. I haven’t. I didn’t even think about him until I started writing this article and I probably won’t think of him again. It’s selfish, but it’s the truth.
If you ask me, I think advice is the only commodity whose supply exceeds the demand—well, if you discount the boda bodas in Kisii. What one prescribes for a certain situation would be fatal in another.
Hizi vitu hazina formula. It sounds hopeless, a damned-if-you-do, damned-if-you-don’t kind of situation, but I would like to say that it is exactly that. The life of a man is one of a constantly rolling boulder, as soon as we get to the top, we start again. Futile labour.
An eternity of hopeless struggle. It is the curse of man. The human being is never content to just be human.
There is this noble, idyllic drive to always become more. That you brought something to this world that you were not given. I suppose this is one reason why people get married, to become more, more than just a man—a husband, a father, a family, a me becoming a we. Kama mbaya, mbaya. Hizi vitu hazina formula.
I am thinking of Mark right now, his smile, his anger, his love for his wife. I’m thinking of the boulder he has to push up his kind of hill, desperately, when his Makmende just wants to be msee wa mtaa. Perhaps hizi vitu ziko na formula, but I doubt it. I mean, just look at the nduthi guys in Ruaka.
“He’s about to say things like ‘no cap’ and ‘bussin’,” one Threads user said.
For those who aren’t lucky enough to have naturally curly hair, many are turning to a tried-and-true treatment, the perm, which has found a new audience in young men influenced by the latest social media trends.
The distinctive look became popular in the late 70s and early 80s with the era’s long-haired rock and pop stars – Michael Jackson and Jon Bon Jovi were big fans of the style – and fans quickly followed suit, catalysing a trend of large, wavy hairstyles among men.
The grown-out, shaggy look enabled the growth of other popular 80s hairstyles, such as mullets and shags, and widened the scope of what society deemed acceptable haircuts for men.
Perms fell out of fashion in the 1990s as new Y2K trends surfaced and straightening iron technology improved, making it easier to curl your hair at home.
“Sleek, poker-straight hair which defined much of this era edged perms out of the zeitgeist, and eventually perming treatments were dropped from compulsory hairdressing curriculum altogether,” says Viva beauty editor Ashleigh Cometti.
“However, in the same way that we cycle through fashion trends, perms are back in a major way and its recent uptick in popularity has seen the chemical styling treatment praised for its ability to reshape and restore texture to a variety of hair lengths and hair types.”
American rock band Bon Jovi, from left, David Bryan, Tico Torres, Jon Bon Jovi, Alec John Such and Richie Sambora. Photo / Getty Images
The perm is now finding its place within a niche new market. So, what’s behind its revival, and how are young men redefining the look for a new generation?
While fading into the background in the West, perms became customary in South Korea and Japan.Musicians from K-pop boy group BTS and Squid Game actor Gong Yoo have all given their own takes on the style and helped cement the modern perm look, characterised by muted curls that appear wavier and more natural than other styles.
K-pop’s rise and the general popularisation of Korean culture around the world have extended the cultural impact of Korean celebrities – including perms. This speaks volumes about the proliferation of K-beauty trends in Aotearoa New Zealand, Cometti says.
“Few international beauty trends have been as influential locally as K-beauty, ranging from the widespread use of snail mucin in skincare to our growing desire for ‘glass skin’. Perms are just the latest to be added to the very long list of trends that have been inspired by and adapted from Korean pop culture,” she says.
V (Kim Taehyung) of BTS is a fan of the perm, having shared photos and videos of him getting the treatment online. Photo / Getty Images
The New York Times aligned the fad to a more widespread challenging of outdated masculine conventions and stereotypes, highlighting how men were becoming more confident in taking charge of their own style and appearance.
“We’re in a moment … where younger generations are very critical of something like toxic masculinity,” University of Hawaii assistant professor and Korean culture and beauty expert S. Heijin Lee told the outlet. “Something like a boy perm becomes an aesthetic way of wearing that and symbolising that.”
How did the ‘Zoomer perm’ get so popular?
Perms were picked up on TikTok in 2020 – Virginia-based Dillon Latham is cited as the first influencer to make a perm video when he was just 15 years old – and young men wanting to recreate what they’d seen influencers do online have driven demand for the style in salons.
Latham, who has over 1.5 million TikTok followers, believes social media has a large impact on how young people look after and think about their hair. “All the guys coming up on TikTok, every guy who went viral and was considered highly attractive had this fluffy hair look. So it was kind of like, if you didn’t have that, you’re missing out,” Latham told GQ.
Perm videos are huge on the platform, with countless young men filming before-and-after videos of their trips to the salon, in turn pulling millions of views and hundreds of thousands of likes.
One California-based mother filmed her 13-year-old son getting a perm and posted it to TikTok, where it has received more than 28 million views, 3.5 million likes, and 142,000 saves.
“Hair changes everything,” read one of the top comments, while another said: “She needs a raise!!!”
One user wasn’t as impressed by the general trend, writing, “Only perm I’ve seen that looks good.” Their comment received over 72,000 likes.
But what about in New Zealand? One’s bound to have noticed more finely tuned curls around town, so who’s been getting them?
Salons around Aotearoa have been promoting the modern perm cut on TikTok and Instagram as they appeal to Gen Z men. Videos posted to social media show clients of all ages and hair types jumping on the trend.
Twenty-two-year-old Wellington university student Aubrey Huang sports a mullet-perm hybrid and says “the intrigue of something new” was what prompted him to change his hair.
“I’ve obviously got very straight hair, but that sort of limits your styling options – I used to have a dreadful side sweep and then I got a middle part last year, but I thought it would be fun to try a perm,” he told the Herald.
After doing some research, Huang “bit the bullet”, and he’s been happy with the outcome. “It’s not that expensive nowadays for something that you redo every three months, and it doesn’t take that long either.”
“Personally, I haven’t come across anyone in person with a Zoomer perm (but maybe that’s just my age). However, I have seen the trend flooding my TikTok algorithm. It’s only a matter of time before my generation tries this trend on for size, too,” Cometti says.
What’s the process behind getting a perm?
After analysing the trend’s online growth, the Herald spoke to an expert in New Zealand’s hairdressing industry to see if Kiwi salons really are seeing an uptick in men getting perms.
Exile Hair Design in Epsom began marketing perms for men on its social media pages earlier this year after noticing a surge in the hair trend’s popularity.
Exile’s owner, Jo Plant, says K-pop stars brought the perm back into fashion around 2018, this time on a shorter style of hair.
Plant says while popular Korean celebrities “definitely revived this trend”, social media and influencers made the male perm a now-global phenomenon.
Most men who head to Exile for perms are aged between 18-30, yet Plant notes the style’s explosion in popularity has meant their clients’ age range is “quite broad”.
“At Exile, the majority of the men getting perms at our salon are only getting a top or half head perm,” so the perm treatment is priced from $106, although the general price of a perm would be salon-specific.
When asked what advice she’d give to men thinking of getting a perm, Plant says to “do your research into what level of curl you desire and the maintenance afterwards, as there are extra steps in a hair routine you will have to follow to make sure you get the desired look you’re after.”
Here are the steps Plant takes with a client during an appointment:
Firstly, she checks the client isn’t allergic to any chemicals used in the perm solution. A hair strand test might be conducted on previously dyed or chemically treated hair, as these “could compromise the end result”.
The client’s hair is then wrapped in rollers and perm solution is applied before allowing some time for the hair to process.
Once the hair is rinsed, neutralised, and trimmed, maintenance is key to keeping your hair healthy and retaining the curls. Plant says to avoid washing your hair within 48 hours after the treatment “as it’s in a fragile state and needs to settle”.
Finally, she recommends certain styling products alongside shampoo and conditioner to use for chemically treated hair. These vary depending on the client’s hair type.
Tom Rose is an Auckland-based digital producer and editorial assistant for the Herald who covers lifestyle, entertainment, and travel.
