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  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Adilabad

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 20, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Adilabad, Telangana

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  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Virudhunagar

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu

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  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Villupuram

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu

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  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Vellore

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Vellore, Tamil Nadu

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  • How to do a Pull Up

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 19, 2023

    If you are a beginner on your journey to building upper body strength, learning how to do a pull up might seem daunting. But fear not! Pull-ups are an excellent way to engage your back, shoulders and arms, and with the proper guidance, you will be pulling yourself up like a pro in no time. In this article, we will explain the steps to help you conquer this fundamental exercise. 

     

    Steps to do a pull-up

    Here is the step-by-step process for how to do pull-ups for beginners:

    • Set up and grip

    To start, find a pull-up bar that can support your weight. Stand beneath the bar and reach up, grabbing it with your palm facing forward and hands about shoulder-width apart. Make sure your grip is firm; your fingers should remain securely wrapped around the bar. 

    • Body positioning

    With your hands gripping the bar, let your body hang freely. Your arms should remain fully extended above you. Now gently stick your chest out and slightly curve your back. Engage your core muscles to maintain stability. 

    • The pull-up motion

    Here comes the exciting part — pulling yourself up! Begin by exhaling as you use your back muscles to initiate the movement. Imagine driving your elbows downward while simultaneously pulling them towards your back pockets. This engages your lats and biceps, the primary muscles involved in the pull-up.

    As you pull up, focus on bringing your elbows down and back, aiming to get the bar to chest level. Keep your movements controlled and avoid any sudden jerks. Maintaining a steady motion will maximise muscle engagement and minimise the risk of injury.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Udamelpet

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    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Udamelpet, Tamil Nadu

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  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Tuticorin

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu

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  • How to Do Chest Press: A Comprehensive Guide

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 19, 2023

    The chest press is a fundamental and immensely potent workout, focusing on the chest, shoulders and triceps muscles. Whether you’re a gym veteran or starting to embark on your fitness journey, mastery over the chest press holds power. It  can markedly enhance your upper body potency and holistic fitness. Within this piece, we shall guide you through the correct method and sequential actions for how to do chest presses with utmost safety and efficacy.

     

    Steps to do a chest press

    Here are a few steps on how to do chest press properly.

     

    • Warm-up

    Kickstart your workout by engaging in a 5-10 minute warm-up session, incorporating gentle cardiovascular activities and dynamic stretches. These actions will prime your muscles for the upcoming physical activity.

     

    • Choose your gear

    The chest press exercise offers flexibility in equipment selection — pick from a barbell, dumbbell, or chest press machine. Opt for the gear that aligns with your fitness level and available resources.

     

    • Arrange your position
    1. Lay on your back with your feet on a bench.
    2. Adjust the machine seat and handles to allow elbows to form a 90-degree angle while grasping handles.
    3. Ensure your back, shoulders and head maintain contact with the bench or backrest.

     

    • Hold and hand placement

    Secure an overhand grip on the barbell or dumbbells, slightly broader than your shoulder width. Maintaining wrist alignment with your forearms ensures proper wrist positioning throughout the exercise.

     

    • Lift the weight

    In the case of a barbell, lift it off the rack with assistance from a spotter. While lying on the bench, hoist dumbbells to shoulder level, then extend your arms upward to initiate the movement.

     

    • Lower the load
    1. Lower the barbell or dumbbells to your chest slowly.
    2. Keep your elbows at a 45-degree angle to your chest.
    3. Keep your core engaged to maintain stability.
  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Trichy

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Trichy, Tamil Nadu

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  • Does Strength Training Reduce Fat?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 19, 2023

    The quest for attaining peak physical well-being and an admired physique has sparked widespread debates on the correlation between fat reduction and strength training.

    Frequently searched phrases such as “Does weight lifting reduce fat?” and “Does strength training reduce fat?” emphasise the need to tackle this matter comprehensively, relying on substantial evidence.

    Let us embark on a journey to explore facts while debunking myths regarding the interplay of strength training and shedding adipose tissue.

    The science behind fat loss

    When you’re thinking of shedding those stubborn pounds, the secret lies in understanding the science behind fat loss. It all boils down to one factor: being in a caloric deficit, which means burning more calories than you consume.

    This clever trick forces your body into an energy imbalance state that triggers the utilisation of stored fat as fuel.

    While strength training alone may not directly impact fat reduction, it certainly plays a valuable role in boosting your overall energy expenditure. In other words, lifting weights can help create the necessary caloric deficit for successful fat loss.

    Benefits of strength training

    Strength training offers numerous benefits, including its potential to raise the resting metabolic rate (i.e., RMR). Even when at rest, muscle tissue requires energy as it possesses a natural state of metabolism.

    By incorporating regular strength training into one’s routine, it becomes possible to develop and sustain lean muscle mass. Consequently, this heightened quantity of muscles results in an increased RMR.

    Over time, such an elevated metabolic rate can contribute to gradual fat reduction.

    Afterburn effect

    Furthermore, engaging in strength training also activates what experts call the “afterburn effect” or excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC).

    Upon completing a vigorous session of strength training exercises, the body necessitates additional oxygen for restoration until it reaches its pre-workout levels.

    This surplus oxygen intake continues even after the workout, leading to prolonged calorie burning.

    By combining strength training with comprehensive strategies for overall fat loss, one can achieve superior outcomes compared to exclusively relying on isolated exercises aimed at reducing fat in specific areas.

    Conclusion

    Although strength training can contribute positively towards shedding excess pounds, one must also pay attention to the crucial role played by proper nutrition.

    Consuming a balanced diet that aligns harmoniously with your fitness goals is crucial. To experience optimum results in diminishing adipose tissue, an individual’s resistance training regimen must complement a healthy eating plan. Moreover, achieving a caloric deficit may help fast-track effective fat loss.

  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Tiruvarur

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Tiruvarur, Tamil Nadu

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    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • How to Do Hammer Curls

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 19, 2023

    Hammer curls are an excellent exercise for targeting the brachialis muscles in the upper arms. Bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts frequently employ this technique to enhance their muscle size, strength, and power. Within this article, we'll help you understand how to do hammer curls and the precise sequence of actions required to execute hammer curls with precision, ensuring optimal results from your exercise regimen!

     

    Steps to do hammer curls   

    • To begin, select the appropriate weight for your hammer curls. It’s crucial to avoid lifting excessive weight to prevent injury or ineffective outcomes. Initiate with a manageable resistance; gradually increasing it as you make progress.

     

    • Maintain an upright posture, placing your feet at a distance equivalent to your shoulders' width. Your arms must hang naturally by your sides. Grasp a dumbbell in each hand, ensuring your palms remain turned toward your body and your elbows are near your torso.

     

    • Lift both arms simultaneously while keeping your wrists aligned and your elbows close to your body. Flex your biceps as you hoist the dumbbells until they reach your shoulder level. Then, in a controlled manner, lower them back down to the starting point. Maintain control throughout the entire motion.

     

    • Perform this exercise for your desired number of repetitions. Afterwards, switch arms and repeat the process on the opposite side.

     

    • To ensure proper form, keep your back straight and core muscles engaged while performing hammer curls. Keep your elbows close to the sides of your body throughout the activity, avoiding any movement in the centre of your body. This will help accentuate the effect on your biceps muscles. Moreover, keep a consistent and controlled motion all through the movement. Try not to jolt or swing the weights, as this can prompt injury.

     

    • Once you have mastered the proper form for hammer curls, it is time to increase your resistance level. Start with a challenging but not too heavyweight, and increase the resistance as your strength increases over time.
  • List of Cashless Network Hospitals in Tiruvannamalai

    by icicilombard 002 | Oct 19, 2023

    ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu

    Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

    which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

  • Should We Do Cardio Before or After a Workout?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 19, 2023

    When it comes to structuring our workout routine, a common thought that arises is — should we do cardio before or after a workout? It’s similar to picking the first game you want to play when you are full of energy. While some people start with weight training when they are most energised, others choose cardio. Then there are those that combine weight training and cardio, like peanut butter and jelly. Don’t worry; this article will help you decide whether you should do cardio before or after weight training. 

     

    Cardio before weight training: The warm-up

    Cardio can be like an espresso shot for your body as you start your exercise routine. When you engage in activities like jogging or cycling, your muscles get awakened, and you experience a warming-up effect that causes your heart to beat faster, enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles. The surge in circulation also releases endorphins (feel-good hormones) that improve mood and reduce stress. This cardio warm-up primes your muscles, tendons and ligaments, making them more flexible and less prone to injury during subsequent weightlifting.

    Improved stamina and endurance gained from cardio improve performance during weight training. If weight loss is your goal, beginning with cardio kick-starts calorie burning and sets the right tone for the rest of your workout. Moreover, the gradual transition from cardio to weightlifting allows your body to adjust to increasing intensity, while the mental preparation time helps you focus on your workout plan.

     

    Cardio after weight training: The muscle-building bonus

    On the flip side, many fitness experts will suggest cardio after weight training. This is because cardio may drain energy and fatigue muscles before the most strenuous activity: anaerobic workout (i.e., strength training). This could compromise the quality of your workout and affect strength training. Beginning with weight training triggers anabolic hormone release and ensures a focus on muscle preservation. Subsequent cardio leverages the heightened metabolism rate post-weightlifting.

    That is why, to build your muscles, doing cardio after your weight training session is advisable, as your muscles are in the perfect condition to tap into fat stores for energy, maximising your body’s ability to burn fat while safeguarding muscle mass.

    If you want a well-rounded workout that can give you an energy burst and prime your muscles for fat loss, starting with cardio might be your best bet. However, if you aim to build muscles and burn calories efficiently, giving weight training the first slot could be your secret weapon.

     

    Conclusion

    Now that you know the merits of doing cardio before or after weights, the choice ultimately boils down to your fitness goals, preferences, and how your body responds. When answering the query on cardio before or after a workout, it’s crucial to understand that both have their advantages; it’s all about finding what works best for you and aligns with your fitness goals. The key to maximising the benefits of your workout is to experiment, know your body, and craft a fitness routine that suits you best.

  • Does Cardio Burn Fat?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 19, 2023

    On a quest for a leaner, healthier self? Then you might’ve often pondered: Does cardio help in weight loss? If you are on a weight loss mission, it's important to understand the role of cardio in shedding those extra pounds.

     

    What is cardio?

    Cardio, short for cardiovascular exercise, includes a range of activities like running, cycling, swimming and dancing, all aimed at elevating your heart rate and boosting your endurance. But the million-dollar question remains — does cardio burn fat?

    The answer is a resounding yes! Cardio is indeed a potent weapon in the battle against unwanted fat. When you engage in cardiovascular activity, your body taps into its energy reserves, primarily targeting stored fat as a fuel source. This process not only contributes to weight loss but also aids in shedding those extra inches that have been bothering you.

    Cardiovascular exercises go beyond just burning calories during your workout; this workout revs up your metabolism even after you have hit the shower. This means your body continues to burn calories at a heightened rate post-exercise, which is known as the “afterburn” effect. Over time, this can lead to a significant reduction in body fat, leaving you with a more toned physique.

     

    Finding your cardio sweet spot

    The relationship between cardio and fat loss isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. The cardio regime’s desired intensity to burn fat effectively may vary from person to person. Factors such as current fitness level, metabolism, and individual body composition play a role in determining the ideal cardio routine for your weight loss goals.

    The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention emphasises that there is no universal prescription for the perfect amount of cardio to facilitate weight loss. It’s a personalised journey that requires tuning in to your body’s cues and finding the right balance of cardiovascular exercise that aligns with your unique physiology and objectives.

    Remember, there is no magic formula that guarantees instant results. The journey to effective weight loss through cardio requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of your body’s needs.

     

    Conclusion

     Whether you are hitting the road for a jog or pedalling away on a stationary bike while grooving to your favourite beats, cardio has the potential to help you shed pounds and sculpt a healthier you. So lace up those sneakers to embark on a cardio adventure. Discover cardio’s transformative power on your journey to a linear, fitter future.

  • How to Do Bicep Curls: A Step-by-Step Guide

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 19, 2023

    Want to develop strong and sculpted arms? Then bicep curls merit inclusion in your regular workout regimen. This exercise predominantly focuses on the biceps brachii muscles at the forefront of your upper arms. At the same time, it activates additional muscles within the arms and shoulders.

     

    Whether you’re a fitness newbie or a seasoned enthusiast, performing bicep curls correctly is crucial if you want to optimise this exercise’s gains and reduce the likelihood of injury. This comprehensive manual outlines how to do a biceps workout precisely and effectively.

    Steps to do bicep curls

    Here are a few steps on how to do bicep curls.

    • Choose your equipment
    1. Choose your preferred equipment like dumbbells, barbells or resistance bands to perform effective bicep curls.
    2. Tailor your equipment choice to your fitness level and accessibility.
    3. Begin with a weight that allows you to perform the movement comfortably.

     

    • Maintain proper posture

    Stand tall, positioning your feet shoulder-width apart. Engage your core muscles and uphold excellent posture throughout the exercise. This approach guarantees the engagement of the correct muscle groups and minimises undue strain on your back.

     

    • Hold the weight

    If you’re using dumbbells or a barbell, grasp the weight with both hands using an underhand grip (palms facing upwards) and hands slightly wider than shoulder-width. If you’re using resistance bands, secure one end of the band under your foot and grip the other end with your hands.

     

    • Initiate the curl

    With arms fully extended and elbows near your torso, gradually raise the weights by flexing your elbows. Your upper arms must remain stationary throughout the movement. You must focus on contracting your biceps as you curl the weight upward.

     

    • Control the movement

    While lifting the weight upward, remember to exhale and contract your biceps firmly when reaching the peak of the motion. It’s important to refrain from swaying your body or relying on momentum to hoist the weight, as this can diminish the exercise’s impact and elevate the potential for injury.

  • Does Weight Training Burn Fat?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 19, 2023

    When you are surrounded by clinking weights at the gym, determined to shed those extra pounds, do you sometimes wonder: Does weight training burn fat?

    The answer is: absolutely yes! A well-planned weight training regimen may hold the secret to shedding stubborn body fat. Let’s understand why and how.

    Weight training, also referred to as strength/resistance training, involves lifting weights to build muscles. But when you engage in weight training — lifting dumbbells, barbells or working with resistance bands, you are not just sculpting your muscles. You are also firing up your body’s burning furnace.

    The magic lies not only in the workout but in its aftermath, which continues long after you have put down those weights.

     

    The afterburn effect

    Here is the exciting part. Weight training doesn’t just work its magic during your workout; it continues its fat-burning ability even after you shower. This post-workout phase is called the afterburn effect or Post Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC). Essentially, your metabolism is elevated for hours. Yes, you’re reading it right — hours after your session!

    Your body is repairing and recovering, expending energy and burning calories even as you rest. This means that weight training contributes to fat loss during the workout and long after you have left the gym or finished your session.

     

  • How to do Lateral Raises

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 19, 2023

    Shoulders are more than just a part of your body — they define your posture and confidence. If you want to sculpt your shoulders and enhance your upper body prowess, mastering the art of lateral raises is a must. Lateral raises are a powerful exercise that can help you achieve sculpted deltoids and improve your upper body stability. In this article, we will explain how to do lateral raises with precision, ensuring you harness the full potential of this transformative shoulder workout. Prepare to raise the bar and take your shoulder game to the next level!

     

    Steps to do lateral raises

    Wondering how do you do lateral raises correctly? Mastering lateral raises requires focus on technique and control. Here is a step-wise breakdown of the exercise for you:. 

    • Select the appropriate weight

    Begin with light dumbbells you can comfortably lift without straining your muscles. As you progress, you can slowly increase the weight to challenge yourself.

    • Stand tall

    Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and arms hanging naturally at your sides, each holding a dumbbell.

    • Engage your core muscles

    Tighten your core muscles to stabilise your torso and maintain proper posture throughout the exercise. 

    • Initiate the raise

    Slowly lift both dumbbells to the sides, keeping your arms stressed or slightly bent at the elbows. Your palms should be facing downward.

    • Control the movement

    Raise your arms till they are parallel to the floor. Focus on using your shoulder muscles to lift the weights rather than momentum.

    • Avoid swinging

    Be cautious not to swing your body or use excessive momentum to lift the weight, as it can result in improper form and decreased effectiveness.

    • Pause and hold

    Hold the raised position briefly.

  • How to Do a Deadlift?

    by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 19, 2023

    Willing to build unshakeable strength and functional power? Then, the deadlift is the right exercise for you. The deadlift is a powerhouse movement that targets various muscle groups like erector spinae, glutes, hamstrings and core muscles while promoting overall strength and stability. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or a first-timer, learning how to do a deadlift with proper form can unlock a new level of strength and prowess.

     

    Steps to do a deadlift

    Here is a comprehensive guide on how to do a proper deadlift.

     

    • Warm-up

    Start with a dynamic warm-up session to prepare your muscles and joints to bear the intensity of the deadlift.

     

    • Set your stance

    Begin the deadlift by positioning yourself with your feet hip-width apart. Point your toes straight ahead or slightly turn them outward.

     

    • Grip the barbell

    Stand close to the barbell with your shins nearly touching it. Bend your hips and knees to give the barbell an overhand or mixed grip. 

     

    • Proper form 

    Focus on maintaining a neutral spine and keep your core muscles engaged throughout the movement. Avoid rounding your back to prevent injury.

     

    • Lift with your legs

    Initiate the lift by pushing through your heels and straightening your hips and knees. Keep the barbell close to your body as you rise.

     

    • Stand tall

    As you lift the bar, fully extend your hips and stand upright. Maintain a neutral spine; avoid hyperextending your back.

     

    • Lower with control

    Reverse the moment by bending your hips and knees. Lower the barbell back to the ground while maintaining proper form.

     

    • Breathing pattern

    Inhale as you prepare to lift, exhale as you exert force to lift the barbell. Now, inhale again as you lower the barbell back down.

     

    • Mindful repetition

     Perform deadlifts with a focus on quality over quantity. Start with a manageable weight; slowly increase it as you become more comfortable.

     

    • Rest & recovery

    Allow sufficient time for recovery between deadlift sessions to prevent over-exertion and reduce the risk of injury.

     

    • Hydration & nutrition

    A proper diet is the key to muscle building. Keep yourself hydrated and fuel your body with proper nutrition to support muscle function and recovery.

     

    Conclusion

    The deadlift isn’t just any exercise — it’s a testament to your strength and determination. You can reshape your fitness journey by mastering how to do a proper deadlift. Follow the correct technique, focus on your form, and watch as your strength and confidence reach new heights. Always listen to your body and avoid pushing beyond your capabilities. If you experience pain or discomfort, stop and correct your form. Remember, with each deadlift, you are not just lifting weight; you are lifting the bar on your potential, one rep at a time. Make sure you have health insurance against any accidents or mishaps that might happen. 

  • How to do Tricep Dips

    by iciclombard 01 | Oct 19, 2023

    Tricep dips can help you sculpt and strengthen your arms effectively. Whether you are aiming for toned triceps or simply want to enhance your upper body strength, learning how to do tricep dips can enhance your fitness repertoire. This article explains how to do a tricep dip correctly, ensuring you get the most out of this targeted arms workout.

     

    Steps to do tricep dips

    Tricep dips may appear challenging, but with the right technique, they can become a rewarding part of your workout routine. Here is a breakdown of how to do tricep dips correctly.

     

    • Find a sturdy surface

    Sit on the edge of a study chair, bench or step with your hands gripping the front edge. Your fingers should point forward, and your palms should be pressed against the surface.

     

    • Position your body

    Slide your hips off the edge of the chair, keeping your knees bent at a 90-degree angle and your feet flat on the floor. Ensure your hands are directly under your shoulders and your fingers securely grip the edge.

     

    • Bend your elbows

    Lower your body by bending your elbows, allowing them to point backwards. Keep your back close to the chair and your shoulders down, away from your ears.

     

    • Dip down

    Lower your body until your elbows are at a 90-degree angle or slightly less. Make sure your upper arms stay parallel to the floor.

     

    • Push up

    Straighten your arms and push through your palms to lift your body back to the starting position. Keep your core muscles active and your chest lifted during the movement.

     

    • Repeat and maintain control

    Perform the exercise with controlled movement, focusing on engaging your triceps. Aim for a steady pace and avoid using momentum to lift yourself.

     

    • Breathing

    Inhale as you lower your body; exhale as you push yourself back up.

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