If we’re honest, the reason most men first set foot in the gym is not to build functional strength or deepen their squat. Like it or not, a certain amount of vanity remains a primary motivator, and while we’ve made a real effort, in recent years, to showcase fitness in all its forms, we’re also quite happy to embrace a healthy dose of mirror-muscle maintenance. So in this issue – alongside a look at the rise of climbing culture, sustainable sportswear, and the science of massage – you’ll discover some excellent ways to build bigger arms, sculpted abdominals, and generally look the part with your top off.
Of course, all the rope push-downs or leg raises in the world won’t get you very far without smart nutrition choices. To point you in the right directions, our annual Nutrition Awards reveal the products – from protein powders to ready-made meals – that can help you on your way to improved fitness and health in the year ahead.