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And just like that, three years of Giggles & Glutes comes to an end. 🤍
It’s a little surreal to be writing this, because what started as an idea became something so special to us. Over the past three years, we’ve shared conversations, laughs, lessons, and so many moments that we’ll always look back on with gratitude.
To everyone who has tuned in, listened, shared an episode, supported us, or simply been part of this journey in some way, thank you. Thank you for giving us your time, for growing alongside us, and for allowing us to share a little piece of ourselves with you.
As we close this chapter, we’re choosing to look back with full hearts rather than sadness. How lucky are we to have created something we can look back on so fondly? How lucky are we to have had three years of conversations, connection, and memories through this little podcast of ours?
We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built, grateful for the season we’ve had, and excited for everything that lies ahead. Sometimes, the most beautiful thing we can do is recognise when a chapter has run its course, appreciate what it gave us, and trust what’s waiting on the other side.
So, this isn’t just a goodbye. It’s a thank you, a celebration of everything Giggles & Glutes has been, and a little reminder that endings can make room for beautiful new beginnings.
You can follow us on instagram
@zeefit18 and @donae_marinus
Thank you for being here for the past three years. It has meant more than you know.
With so much love and gratitude,
Donaé & Zoe 🤍
Here’s to the next chapter. 🥂
Hello! Welcome back to the semi-finale episode of Giggles & Glutes
Sometimes, letting go doesn't mean something wasn't worth having. Sometimes it simply means you've grown, you've entered a new season, and you're ready for something different.
In this semi-finale episode of Giggles & Glutes, Donaé and Zoe have a raw and honest conversation about endings, change, outgrowing things, and the uncomfortable space between what was and what's next.
They talk about what it really means to know when it's time to let go, why leaving something doesn't mean you failed, the fear that can come with stepping into the unknown, and why you don't have to make your past wrong just because you're ready to move forward.
They also open up about bringing Giggles & Glutes into a new chapter and reflect on everything this podcast has given them — the conversations, the memories, the growth, and the connection.
If you're currently navigating a change in your own life, this episode is your reminder that you don't need to have everything figured out. Sometimes you just need to trust yourself enough to take the next step.
You can love something, be grateful for it, and still know it's time to let it go.
Here's to endings, new beginnings, and whatever comes next. 🤍
TIMESTAMPS :
00:00 — Welcome to the Semi-Finale
Why this episode feels different and what today’s conversation is really about.
01:15 — The Different Seasons of Life
How we change, grow, and move through different seasons.
04:00 — When You Outgrow Something
Why outgrowing something doesn’t mean it was ever wrong for you.
06:45 — Knowing When It’s Time to Let Go
The difference between giving up and consciously letting go.
09:30 — Talking About Giggles & Glutes
Reflecting on the podcast and why ending this chapter feels so emotional.
12:30 — The Fear of What’s Next
Why uncertainty can make moving forward so difficult.
15:00 — You Don’t Have to Make Your Past Wrong
Learning to appreciate previous versions of yourself without needing to stay there.
17:15 — What We’re Taking With Us
The lessons, memories, confidence and connection the podcast has given us.
19:00 — If You’re Going Through a Season of Change
A message for anyone who is struggling to let go or take their next step.
21:00 — Final Thoughts & Goodbye
Donaé and Zoe reflect on the journey and look toward what’s next.
22:30 — Until Next Time 🤍
A final message to the Giggles & Glutes community.
#GigglesAndGlutes #NewBeginnings #LettingGo #PersonalGrowth #LifeLessons #NewChapter
Welcome back to Giggles & Glutes! 🎙️
Last week, we talked about sugar and how quickly individual foods can become demonised. This week, we’re turning our attention to another ingredient that has had a pretty terrible reputation over the years:
For years, we’ve been told that salt causes bloating, water retention, high blood pressure and heart disease so naturally, many of us have learnt to think that less salt automatically means healthier.
Sodium is an essential nutrient that your body needs for fluid balance, nerve signalling and muscle function. And when we add exercise, sweating, heat and electrolytes into the conversation, things get even more interesting.
In this episode, we’re breaking down what sodium actually does in the body, how much we need, what happens when intake gets too low, why more isn’t automatically better, and why active women may need to think about sodium a little differently.
And, of course, we come back to one of the biggest messages we’ve tried to share throughout Giggles & Glutes:
Context matters.
Reducing excessive sodium intake and trying to eliminate sodium completely are two very different things.
So before you throw away your salt shaker or start putting electrolytes into every drink you own give this episode a listen. 😂
As we get closer to the end of Giggles & Glutes, we’re bringing these final episodes back to what this podcast has always been about:
No extremes. No fear-mongering. Just information, context and a little bit of common sense.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever you go.
00:00 — Welcome back to Giggles & Glutes Introducing today’s topic: salt and sodium.
01:00 — Why does salt have such a bad reputation? High blood pressure, heart disease, bloating and water retention.
02:30 — Sodium vs salt: what’s the difference? Why sodium on a nutrition label isn’t the same thing as the total amount of salt in a food.
04:00 — What does sodium actually do? Fluid balance, nerve signalling, muscle contractions and normal cellular function.
06:00 — Sodium and exercise Why sodium becomes particularly relevant when you’re sweating.
08:00 — Not everyone sweats the same Why two people doing the same workout can have completely different electrolyte needs.
09:30 — Should active women be taking electrolytes? When electrolyte replacement may actually make sense — and when it probably isn’t necessary.
12:00 — Why sodium recommendations aren’t one-size-fits-all Population recommendations vs individual circumstances.
14:00 — Can you have too little sodium? Why “less” isn’t automatically better.
16:00 — Salt and heart health What the conversation around sodium, blood pressure and cardiovascular health actually looks like.
18:00 — The electrolyte wellness trend Do you really need electrolytes in everything?
20:00 — Salt and the scale Why a salty meal can make your weight increase temporarily without you gaining body fat.
22:00 — Potassium: the forgotten electrolyte Why we shouldn’t look at sodium in isolation.
24:00 — Your overall diet matters Processed foods, takeaway meals, sauces and where most dietary sodium actually comes from.
26:00 — When you should follow medical advice Sodium restrictions, medical conditions and why individual medical advice takes priority.
28:00 — Stop labelling individual ingredients as “good” or “bad” The bigger nutrition lesson behind the episode.
30:00 — The Giggles & Glutes philosophy Moving away from fear-based fitness and nutrition advice.
31:30 — The final Giggles & Glutes episodes Reflecting on the podcast and what these final episodes mean.
33:00 — Thank you for listening Closing out the episode.
Welcome back to Giggles & Glutes! 🎙️
Today, we’re talking about one of the most confusing topics in nutrition: SUGAR
More specifically, we’re breaking down the difference between the sugar naturally found in whole fruit and added or free sugars found in things like sweets, sugary drinks, honey, syrups and fruit juice.
Because somehow, in 2026, we’re still having to defend bananas and berries from the internet. 🍌
We’re getting into what sugar actually is, whether fructose really is something you need to fear, why fruit juice isn’t the same as eating whole fruit, whether sugar makes you gain body fat, how to think about food labels, and—most importantly why you absolutely do not need to be scared of fruit.
So grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s clear up some of the nutrition nonsense together.
Timestamp
00:00 | Welcome to Giggles & Glutes
00:16 | A big announcement: the podcast is winding down
02:22 | Why our final episodes are tackling common nutrition myths
03:17 | 🍌 The great sugar debate: fruit vs added sugar
05:25 | What actually is sugar?
06:37 | Why all carbohydrates don’t affect your body in exactly the same way
07:35 | The importance of fibre, water and the whole-food package
08:45 | Fructose: should you actually be worried?
11:07 | Fruit vs sweets: aren’t they both just sugar?
13:41 | Why whole fruit is different from sugary foods
14:27 | Fruit juice: why it isn’t the same as eating fruit
16:57 | Added sugars vs free sugars
17:39 | 🍯 Honey, maple syrup & the “natural sugar” misconception
20:50 | Dates & dried fruit: healthy, but context matters
22:37 | Does sugar actually make you gain body fat?
25:39 | How much sugar should you actually eat?
27:45 | Understanding sugar on food labels
28:57 | Should you avoid fruit because of its sugar?
30:13 | The big takeaway: fruit is not the enemy 🍓
31:59 | Why nutrition shouldn’t take over your life
32:54 | Thank you for being part of Giggles & Glutes
33:11 | 🍌 Justice for the bananas
Disclaimer: The information shared in Giggles & Glutes is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace individual medical, nutritional, or professional advice. Everyone’s health, nutritional needs and circumstances are different. If you have a medical condition, specific dietary requirements, or concerns about your health or nutrition, speak with a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised advice.
Let’s get to know each other!
HELLO! welcome back to another episode of Giggles &Glutes.
Cannabis and fitness is a conversation that has exploded in recent years. From athletes openly discussing cannabis use to social media claiming it can make your workouts better, there are plenty of opinions but what does the research actually say?
In this episode of Giggles & Glutes, we dive into the science behind cannabis, exercise and the endocannabinoid system. We break down the difference between THC and CBD, explore why cannabis interacts with a system that already exists within our bodies, and ask the big question: Can cannabis actually improve your athletic performance?
We also unpack research looking at runners who exercised after using cannabis and discovered an interesting distinction: people may enjoy exercise more or perceive it as less uncomfortable, without actually becoming faster or stronger.
So, is cannabis a performance enhancer, or could it simply change the way exercise feels?
And this is only Part 1 next week, we’re diving into cannabis and recovery, sleep, muscle soreness and muscle growth.
TIMESTAMPS :
00:00 — Welcome to Giggles & Glutes
What we’re discussing and why cannabis & fitness has become such a big conversation.
01:10 — Why Are We Talking About Cannabis & Fitness?
The rise of cannabis discussions among athletes, runners and fitness communities.
02:41 — What Is the Endocannabinoid System?
An introduction to the body’s natural endocannabinoid system and what it does.
04:13 — Cannabis & the Human Body
How cannabinoids interact with receptors that already exist within our bodies.
05:55 — How Cannabis Research Began
How the discovery of THC ultimately helped scientists uncover the endocannabinoid system.
06:59 — THC vs CBD: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the two major cannabinoids and why they can produce different experiences.
07:44 — Does Cannabis Improve Exercise Performance?
What the current research actually tells us about strength, power, endurance and speed.
08:23 — Why Do People Feel Like It Helps?
Exploring why people may genuinely believe cannabis improves their workouts.
08:32 — Cannabis & Running: What Does the Research Say?
Looking at research on runners who exercised after using cannabis.
09:22 — Feeling Better ≠ Performing Better
The biggest takeaway: enjoying exercise more doesn’t necessarily mean you’re performing better.
09:36 — What We Actually Know So Far
What the evidence supports — and where the research is still limited.
10:26 — Next Week: Cannabis & Recovery
Can cannabis help with sleep, muscle soreness, recovery and muscle growth?
10:48 — Subscribe & Share
Don’t miss Part 2 of our cannabis & fitness series.
Key Takeaways
DISCLAIMER :
This podcast is intended for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical, health, fitness or legal advice. The information discussed reflects research and understanding available at the time of recording and should not be interpreted as a recommendation to use cannabis, THC, CBD or any other substance.
Cannabis can affect individuals differently and may carry health, medication, impairment, dependency and legal considerations. Laws surrounding cannabis also vary by country and jurisdiction. Always consider your individual circumstances and speak with a qualified healthcare professional before using cannabis for medical, fitness or recovery purposes. If you are an athlete, you should also check the rules of your relevant sporting organisation regarding prohibited substances.
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Hang out with us on our socials!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giggles.glutes/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gigglesandglutes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GigglesandGlutes
Let’s get to know each other!
Hello! and welcome to another episode of Giggles and Glutes.
We have missed you.
Fat freezing is everywhere but what does it actually do?
In this episode of Giggles & Glutes, we’re having an honest conversation about fat freezing, also known as cryolipolysis. We break down the science behind the treatment, what it can realistically achieve, and why it’s important to understand the difference between body contouring and weight loss.
But this conversation goes deeper than the treatment itself.
We talk about what happens when you’re frustrated with your body, feel like your progress is taking too long, and start looking for a faster solution. We share a very honest conversation about body image, guilt, cosmetic treatments, fitness expectations and the pressure to constantly change the way we look.
Fat freezing can reduce fat in a targeted area but it won’t teach you how to train, nourish your body, build consistency, manage emotional eating or create sustainable habits.
So is fat freezing a scam? No.
Is it a magic solution? Also no.
We explore when a treatment like this might make sense, why expectations matter, and why changing your body and changing your behaviour are two very different things.
Ultimately, this episode is about making informed choices without judgement and asking ourselves a bigger question: what are we actually trying to fix?
If you’ve ever considered fat freezing, felt frustrated with your progress, or found yourself searching for the next quick fix, this conversation is for you.
🎧 Listen now and let us know what you think.
DISCLAIMER
The information shared in this episode is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Fat freezing (cryolipolysis) is a cosmetic procedure, and individual results, risks and suitability can vary. If you are considering fat freezing or any other cosmetic treatment, speak to a qualified medical professional or appropriately licensed provider to determine whether it is suitable for you.
The views and experiences shared in this episode are our own and are not intended to tell anyone what they should or should not do with their body.
Always make decisions about your health and body based on your individual circumstances and professional medical advice.
Key takeaways
Support the show
Hang out with us on our socials!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giggles.glutes/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gigglesandglutes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GigglesandGlutes
Let’s get to know each other!
In this episode of Giggles & Glutes, we chat about the pressure to constantly optimize every part of our lives from hitting 10,000 steps and tracking our calories to perfect morning routines, supplements, workouts and everything in between.
We explore how social media has created unrealistic expectations around what a “healthy” and “productive” life should look like, and how easily self-improvement can turn into self-pressure. Just because someone online appears to have the perfect routine doesn’t mean you need to replicate their lifestyle.
We also talk about why fitness should support your life, not consume it. Missing a workout, enjoying a takeaway, eating birthday cake or taking a few days off doesn’t erase your progress. True consistency is about what you do most of the time, not being perfect every single day.
Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that your health should make your world bigger, not smaller. Your fitness should give you the energy to travel, spend time with the people you love, enjoy experiences, laugh, explore and actually live your life.
Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t to create the perfect routine it’s to create a healthy life that you genuinely enjoy living.
Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical, nutritional, psychological, or fitness advice. Everyone’s health, fitness level, circumstances, and goals are different. Always consult an appropriately qualified healthcare or fitness professional before making significant changes to your exercise, nutrition, or health routine.
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 — Welcome back to Giggles & Glutes
00:07 — From fitness communities to the pressure to optimize
00:43 — The endless wellness checklist
01:20 — When wellness starts feeling like a full-time job
01:39 — When self-improvement becomes self-pressure
02:08 — The influence of social media on our expectations
02:30 — The unrealistic “perfect lifestyle” online
03:14 — Comparing yourself to fitness professionals
03:59 — You’re only seeing five minutes of someone’s day
05:15 — When content creation becomes someone’s job
06:13 — Fitness should support your life, not consume it
06:30 — Making your training fit into your actual life
07:19 — Life happens — and that’s okay
07:42 — Fitness as the spice to life
07:56 — You can enjoy cake, holidays and going out
08:54 — One workout or takeaway won’t ruin your progress
10:09 — The pressure of having the “perfect routine”
10:34 — Your habits should fit into your life
11:17 — Why simpler is often better
12:56 — Health should make your world bigger, not smaller
13:22 — What people will actually remember about you
14:01 — Take care of your body AND love your life
14:10 — Final thoughts & outro
🔑 Key Takeaways
Support the show
Hang out with us on our socials!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giggles.glutes/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gigglesandglutes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GigglesandGlutes
Let’s get to know each other!
Hello! Welcome back to another episode of Giggles & Glutes.
In this episode, we’re talking about one of the most frustrating parts of fitness: when the number on the scale doesn’t change, but your body looks and feels completely different. We break down why scale weight doesn’t tell the full story, the difference between muscle and fat, what body recomposition actually means, and how water, glycogen, stress, sleep, digestion and your menstrual cycle can all influence your weight. We also discuss BMI, body-fat percentage, why women need adequate body fat, why chasing the lowest possible number isn’t always healthy, and why building muscle should be a bigger focus when it comes to long-term health and fitness. Most importantly, we talk about how to measure progress beyond the scale, including your strength, energy, measurements, photos and how you actually feel in your body. If your weight hasn’t changed but your body looks and feels different, that isn’t a problem — that’s progress.
Timestamps
Disclaimer :
The information shared in this episode is for general educational and informational purposes only. This content is not intended to constitute medical, nutritional or professional healthcare advice. Everyone's body, health, hormones, training history and nutritional needs are different. Information discussed about body composition, body fat, BMI, weight loss, nutrition, medications and health conditions should not be used to diagnose, treat or prevent any medical condition. If you have concerns about your weight, body composition, menstrual cycle, nutrition, medications or overall health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the hosts and are intended to encourage education and conversation. This episode should not replace personalised advice from a qualified professional.
Support the show
Hang out with us on our socials!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giggles.glutes/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gigglesandglutes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GigglesandGlutes
Let’s get to know each other!
Hello!
Welcome back to another episode of Giggles&Glutes.
Everyone is talking about run clubs… but are they really about running?
In this episode of Giggles & Glutes, we dive into why run clubs, walking groups, Pilates classes and other social fitness communities are growing faster than ever. We explore how technology and AI have changed the way we live, why so many adults struggle to make new friends, and why movement has become one of the easiest ways to build meaningful relationships.
We also share our own experiences of moving countries, feeling isolated, and how creating communities through fitness has completely changed our wellbeing.
Whether you’re already part of a fitness community or you’ve been thinking about joining one, this episode might be the sign you’ve been waiting for.
In this episode we discuss:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a little encouragement to get out there and move.
DisclaimerThe information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, nutritional, or mental health advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your exercise, nutrition, or lifestyle routine. The opinions shared are based on our own experiences and current understanding at the time of recording.
Time Stamps00:00 – Welcome back to Giggles & Glutes
00:20 – Why run clubs are suddenly everywhere
01:35 – Is AI making us crave more human connection?
03:30 – Technology can’t replace genuine relationships
06:20 – Why people really join run clubs
07:55 – Making friends as an adult is harder than we expected
09:20 – The new definition of wellness
10:00 – Donaé’s experience of loneliness after moving countries
11:00 – How AI helps our businesses (without replacing people)
12:10 – Why movement will always bring people together
14:20 – Paddle, Pilates and the future of social fitness
16:30 – Putting our phones down and reconnecting
17:20 – Why belonging is the biggest wellness trend
18:00 – Final thoughts and why this is your sign to join a fitness community
Support the show
Hang out with us on our socials!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giggles.glutes/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gigglesandglutes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GigglesandGlutes
Let’s get to know each other!
Welcome back to Giggles & Glutes! We’re so happy you’re here.
Whether you’re listening on a walk, driving to work, or squeezing us into your day, thank you for tuning in.
Today’s episode is all about something incredibly simple, yet incredibly powerful: walking.
For years, walking was seen as something we just did to get from A to B. It wasn’t considered “real exercise” by a lot of people. But lately, it’s become one of the biggest movements in health and wellness, and for good reason.
Today we’re talking about why walking is making such a comeback, the science-backed benefits behind it, why it’s one of the best habits for long-term health and longevity, and how adding more steps into your day could have a bigger impact than you think.
So lace up your shoes or keep walking if you’re already out and let’s get into it.
The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your exercise routine.
TIMESTAMPS :
00:00 – Welcome Back
Catch-up and introduction to today’s episode.
02:15 – Why Walking Is Having a Moment
How walking has gone from being overlooked to becoming one of the biggest wellness trends.
10:30 – The Health Benefits of Walking
Why this simple form of movement can improve cardiovascular health, mental wellbeing, mobility, recovery, and longevity.
19:45 – Why More Isn’t Always Better
Why you don’t need intense workouts every day to be healthy, and how walking complements strength training.
29:15 – Walking for Your Mind
How getting outside, slowing down, and walking regularly can reduce stress and improve your mood.
37:00 – Making Walking Part of Your Lifestyle
Simple ways to increase your daily steps without feeling like it’s another workout.
44:00 – Final Thoughts
Why walking is one of the most underrated forms of exercise and why it’s here to stay.
Support the show
Hang out with us on our socials!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giggles.glutes/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gigglesandglutes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GigglesandGlutes
From the publisher's feed
Welcome to Giggles & Glutes, a YouTube channel by best friends and Personal Trainers Donaé and Zoë, where we dive into all things life, fitness, and women’s empowerment. Join us for real talk,…