#stair climber machine

[crestfitness]

Step Up Your Fitness Game:- Crest Fitness' Stair Climbers & Steppers for a Total Body Transformation!

Explore the transformative power of Crest Fitness' stair climber and stepper machines! Discover how these dynamic workout tools elevate cardiovascular endurance, sculpt and tone muscles, and offer low-impact yet high-efficiency workouts. With a range catering to various fitness levels and customizable settings, these machines track progress and propel your fitness journey forward.

Read more at https://crestfitness12.livejournal.com/605.html

[brunchable]

𝗠𝘆 𝗡𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗯𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿 [ 2 ]

Part One Pairings: PornStar!Bucky Barnes x f!Reader Themes: Sexual Innuendo/humour,Guy next door, situational comedy? Sexual Themes 18+ ONLY: fingering, cunnilingus, Bucky loves tiddies, dirty talk. Summary: Though you've become oddly close to SergeantBarnes, it's still difficult to act normal around him. A/N: I didn't think many would ask for a part two but here you go. divider by @cafekitsune

It was a peaceful evening in the apartment gym—or, at least, it was supposed to be. You had your plan: thirty minutes on the stair climber, some stretches, and you’d be out of there before any awkwardness could find you.

But then you heard it—the unmistakable sound of weights clanging, followed by a deep, low grunt that made your entire body freeze.

You glanced up, hoping against hope that it wasn’t who you thought it was. But, of course, there he was: Bucky, over at the hip thrust machine, setting up his weights directly in front of you. Perfect, you thought. Of all the machines in here, he has to pick the most… suggestive one.

Your eyes flicked back to the tiny screen on your machine. Stay focused, you told yourself. Don’t look. Just ignore him.

But the moment he started his set, you heard it—a low, powerful grunt that practically reverberated through the gym. You immediately bit down on your lip, forcing yourself to stare straight ahead, pretending you weren’t having flashbacks to his other kind of workouts.

Another deep grunt.

Your hands clenched the stair climber’s handles like a lifeline. Do NOT look, you told yourself, the mantra echoing in your mind. But your treacherous eyes slid sideways, just for a second, and you caught a glimpse of him, face focused, breaths heavy as he powered through each hip thrust. The guy was practically a one-man gym commercial.

You looked away, focusing on your steps—your very uneven, slightly panicked steps. It’s just a hip thrust, for crying out loud! Nothing unusual here, you told yourself, trying to stomp out the heat creeping up your cheeks. But every time he exhaled, your mind filled with images of… well, his other performances.

Then, in the middle of one of his reps, Bucky let out a particularly deep, guttural grunt that nearly threw you off balance. Your foot slipped, your rhythm stuttered, and in a moment of pure panic, you clutched the handles and stumbled forward, practically throwing yourself onto the machine.

“Shit!” you yelped, fumbling to regain your balance as your legs moved faster than your brain, desperately trying not to faceplant.

You heard Bucky chuckle, that low, infuriatingly amused laugh, and felt your cheeks practically ignite. You looked up, heart pounding, only to find him smirking in your direction, eyes dancing with mischief.

“Careful there, Y/N,” he said, raising an eyebrow. “Stair climbers are brutal.”

“Oh, yeah, totally!” you squeaked, straightening up, trying to look like you meant to almost eat it. “Just… keeping things interesting. Got to keep the cardio exciting, you know?”

“Looks like it’s working,” he replied, wiping his forehead with a towel, his grin widening as he noticed your death grip on the machine. “You sure you’re good over there?”

“Oh, I’m… I’m great,” you lied, your face flaming as you tried to regain your composure. But he wasn’t done with you yet.

“Glad to hear it,” he said, voice way too smooth. He paused, then tilted his head, a playful smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Gotta admit, though… this machine setup does feel a bit familiar.”

Your brain nearly exploded. Did he just—? He couldn’t mean… But his eyes sparkled with that infuriating, knowing look, and you knew exactly what he was hinting at. Your face went beet red as your foot slipped again, but this time you managed to catch yourself, narrowly avoiding another disaster.

“Uh-huh,” you said, laughing nervously, desperately trying to hold it together. “Well, enjoy your… uh, workout!”

“Oh, I am,” he said, chuckling softly. “Especially with the view.” He winked, setting up for another set while you tried not to spontaneously combust.

With one final, mortified glance, you turned your attention back to the stair climber, mentally swearing you’d never step foot in this gym again after this.

Since you survived the stair climber ordeal without faceplanting (barely), you decided it was time to move on. Somewhere—anywhere—that didn’t involve Bucky’s hip thrusts or his incessant, maddening smirk.

You zeroed in on the bench press. Safe, you thought, relieved. Just a standard exercise. Nothing suggestive, no chance of stumbling, tripping, or looking like a klutz. You grabbed the bar, took a deep breath, and mentally prepped yourself. Easy-peasy.

And then—because the universe simply refused to give you a break—you heard that all-too-familiar voice right beside you.

“Need a spot?”

You looked up and almost swallowed your tongue. There was Bucky, looming over you with that same damn smirk, wiping his hands on a towel like he was gearing up for some personal training session from your worst/best nightmares.

“Oh, uh… I—” you stammered, already feeling the heat creep up your neck. You’ve got this, you told yourself. Just let him help you. No big deal. You’re a mature, fully-functioning adult.

“Yeah, sure!” you squeaked, trying to sound normal as he stepped closer, positioning himself behind the bench. You laid back, gripping the bar, and immediately realized what a horrible, terrible mistake this was. You were now lying flat on your back, Bucky leaning over you, his face far too close as he focused on making sure you could lift the weight.

“You ready?” he asked, his face all business, but his lips still had that mischievous curve.

“Ready,” you mumbled, eyes darting anywhere but up at him, trying to ignore how absolutely awkwardly intimate this felt. You started your set, breathing steadily as you lifted the bar, determined to act as if this were a completely normal workout.

But then, midway through the reps, he leaned down a little closer. “By the way, did you check out my new video?”

Your hands nearly slipped. You fumbled the bar, barely catching it as your brain short-circuited. 

“W-What?” you managed, voice strangled, heart racing.

“My new video,” he repeated, casually reaching out to help guide the bar back into place as you struggled not to lose it. “Thought you might’ve seen it by now.”

Your cheeks flamed, but you somehow managed to choke out, “N-No! I… I haven’t seen it!”

Bucky chuckled softly, raising an eyebrow as he straightened up, his voice taking on a teasing, almost disappointed tone. 

“Oh. That’s a shame,” he said, smirk lingering. “Didn’t have a costar this time—just me, actually. First time I’ve ever done that.”

Your mouth dropped open. Just him? Your brain skidded to a halt. Suddenly, you were far too interested in a video you’d just denied seeing. 

“Oh, um… interesting?” you squeaked, trying to keep your face neutral but definitely failing.

“Yeah,” he replied with a shrug, looking at you with twinkling eyes. “Guess you’ll have to let me know what you think… whenever you get around to it.”

“Actually, I… uh… I kind of stopped watching… since we, you know… know each other. Just… feels awkward.”

Bucky’s grin widened, his eyes lighting up with amusement. 

“Oh, so you’re telling me we’re too close for you to watch my work now?” He raised an eyebrow, looking mockingly offended. “I thought we were supporting local artists.”

Your cheeks practically combusted as he said it, and you fumbled with the bar, desperately trying to pretend you hadn’t heard him. Supporting local artists? Was he serious right now?

“Oh my god,” you mumbled, absolutely mortified. “This is not— You’re not— I mean…!”

But he just looked down at you, that smug grin firmly in place as he leaned in, clearly enjoying every second of your flustered state. 

“What?” he asked, feigning innocence. “Don’t you believe in supporting the arts?”

Your mouth opened and closed like a fish, words completely failing you. “This… this is not the same!” you finally blurted, clutching the bar like it was your only lifeline.

“Oh really?” he replied, chuckling. “Because it sounds like you’re saying we’re too close for me to keep doing what I do. You know, my passion.”

You practically choked, waving your hands around in frantic denial. “No! No! That’s not— I’m not stopping you! I’m just— I don’t know, maybe supporting from a… distant, supportive spiritual place?”

He laughed outright, shaking his head. “So, what—you’re like cheering me on… but from across the street?”

You nodded vigorously, still trying to save face. “Exactly! Just… supportive… but in a non-participatory kind of way.”

“Got it,” he said, smirking. “So, I’m officially your guilty pleasure now.”

You groaned, covering your face with your hands as he chuckled, clearly far too pleased with himself. 

Note to self: Avoid all future conversations with Bucky Barnes for the rest of eternity.

× × × × 

That evening, you were finally settled at your dining table, a bowl of pasta in front of you, determined to put the entire gym disaster behind you. You’d survived another encounter with Bucky—barely—and now all you wanted was some quiet, non-embarrassing time with carbs.

But as you twirled your fork in the noodles, your brain betrayed you, replaying his words from earlier.

“Did you check out my new video?”

You paused mid-bite, the fork hovering near your mouth as you stared blankly at the wall, feeling a strange mix of curiosity and dread bubbling up. What could he have meant by “just me”? You tried to shake it off, forcing another forkful of pasta into your mouth. Nope, not going there.

But the thought lingered, nudging you, until you found yourself setting down the fork, fingers hovering over your phone. Just one quick search, you reasoned, glancing around your empty apartment as if someone might catch you.

You typed in the familiar site, thumbs hesitating above the search bar, nearly typing “SergeantBarnes new video” before you snapped back to reality, dropping the phone like it burned.

“Oh, no,” you muttered to yourself, horrified at how close you’d come. “Absolutely not. What am I, insane?”

You shoved another forkful of pasta into your mouth, shaking your head furiously. “I am not doing this.”

But as you continued eating, your eyes kept darting back to the phone, the curiosity gnawing at you, leaving you torn between common sense and the very persuasive power of nosiness.

You took a deep breath, clenching your fists. “Get a grip, Y/N. You are absolutely not watching that video.”

...But maybe just a preview?

You groaned, stuffing your face with more pasta, determined to win this internal battle.

× × × ×

The next morning, just as you were heading out the door for work, you spotted something bright and obnoxiously neon-colored taped to the wall near the mailboxes. Curiosity got the better of you, and you stepped closer, squinting at the bold, glittery letters.

POOL PARTY THIS WEEKEND! it proclaimed. Food, drinks, music, fun! Don’t miss it!

You raised an eyebrow, debating if you’d actually brave a building-wide party when suddenly, the quiet hallway was shattered by a loud, unmistakably ecstatic moan. The kind that could only mean one thing.

From none other than Bucky’s apartment.

You froze, eyes widening in disbelief. Is that—? Is he—?

A second moan, even louder than the first, confirmed it. This wasn’t just any moan; this was the sound of someone—some woman—having the time of her life. At what had to be eight o’clock in the morning.

“Oh, seriously?!” you hissed under your breath, glancing down the hallway as if there might be witnesses to this auditory ambush. Just then, the woman’s voice hit a pitch so high it practically reverberated off the walls.

You winced, clutching your bag like it could somehow shield you from this. Who even has that much energy in the morning? You took a step back, hoping to escape the sonic nightmare, but the moans only got louder, each sound more animated than the last.

You threw your hands over your ears, eyes squeezed shut as you muttered furiously to yourself. 

“Nope, nope, absolutely not. Not today, not right now.” You spun on your heel, practically power-walking down the hall, doing your best to drown out the soundtrack blaring from his apartment.

“YES, SERGEANT! OH MY GOD!”

You practically stumbled, muttering an alarmed, “Oh my god, stop!” as you picked up the pace, pressing your hands even harder against your ears. It was like some kind of cruel game—the closer you got to the elevator, the louder it seemed to get, echoing in your ears like a siren you couldn’t escape.

You winced, feeling your face burn as you all but sprinted down the hall, chanting, “Nope, nope, NOPE!” under your breath like a mantra. It was as if your feet couldn’t carry you fast enough, each step a desperate attempt to put some distance between you and… whatever was happening in that apartment.

Finally, you made it to the elevator, slamming your finger against the button with more force than necessary, glancing nervously over your shoulder as if the sounds might follow you. The doors mercifully slid open, and you dove inside, leaning back against the wall and pressing your hands over your ears one last time, breathing a sigh of relief.

But just as the doors began to close, one last triumphant shout echoed down the hallway, loud and clear, like the universe had decided you hadn’t suffered enough.

You groaned, staring up at the ceiling as the doors shut, wondering if this building had any quiet hours, or if you were doomed to start every morning with a full-blown soundscape of… Bucky’s extracurricular activities.

Note to self: Invest in earplugs. Maybe some noise-canceling headphones. Or a new apartment altogether.

× × × ×

You arrived at work looking like you’d barely survived a natural disaster. Traumatized, sleep-deprived, and still hearing the morning’s very loud soundtrack echoing in your mind, you slumped into your chair, hoping to quietly blend into the office scenery and get through the day in peace.

Naturally, that was too much to ask.

“Whoa,” Trish said, swiveling in her chair to eye you like you were a science experiment gone wrong. “You look like you just spent a night in a haunted house.”

“Or… like you had a wild morning,” Amy added, raising her eyebrows. “You okay there, Y/N?”

“Fine,” you muttered, barely making eye contact as you set your bag down, trying to erase the vivid flashbacks of Bucky’s… extremely enthusiastic co-worker.

Before you could even recover, Trish leaned in, her grin spreading like wildfire. “Sooo… did you finally get around to watching Sergeant Barnes’ new video?”

Your head snapped up, heart stopping in your chest. “Wha—no! Why would I… I mean… I—”

“Oh, come on,” Amy said, nudging you like she’d just caught you in a guilty pleasure. “You don’t know what you’re missing. He’s alone in this one.” She leaned closer, adding in a stage whisper, “The man has talent.”

“Uh-huh,” Trish agreed, nodding like a sage. “No costars this time. Just him, going all in. It’s… impressive.”

You clutched the edge of your desk, mentally scrambling for any kind of response that would shut them down without revealing the secret you swore you’d take to the grave: that Sergeant Barnes was actually your neighbor.

You swallowed, managing to squeak out, “You know we’re in an office, right? As in, the place we do work?”

“Oh please, don’t act like you’re all professional now!” Trish smirked, crossing her arms as she gave you a knowing look. “You were all too eager to do some ‘research’ when we told you about him the first time.”

“Yeah!” Amy joined in, her grin absolutely diabolical. “You should be thanking us! The way you’re looking right now, I’d bet you already took a look this morning.”

You spluttered, mortified. “No! I mean, of course not! It’s just—this is… inappropriate.”

Amy snorted, clearly unconvinced. “Uh-huh, sure. And here I thought you had a little curiosity.”

You glared, fully prepared to tell them off, but Amy cut in first, smirking as she leaned over your desk. 

“C’mon, Y/N, it’s just us girls. Tell me you don’t have some curiosity about what the man can do when it’s just him and the camera.”

You felt the heat rise in your cheeks, struggling to keep your cool. “No, I’m not curious! Not at all. And maybe you two shouldn’t be either, because, oh, I don’t know… WE ARE AT WORK!”

They both cracked up, sharing a delighted high-five as you buried your face in your hands, praying for the ground to open up and swallow you.

“Oh, we’re just messing with you,” Trish said, barely holding back laughter. “But seriously, girl… you look like you need to unwind. Maybe with a drink or… you know… a little quality screen time?”

“Or maybe someone live and in-person?” Amy chimed in, waggling her eyebrows.

You groaned, face down on your desk, cursing the fact that they would never, ever know the full story.

× × × × 

You stepped into the lobby, utterly drained from the day, just as the elevator doors began to slide shut. Without a second thought, you bolted, slipping in right before they closed. Only then did you realize the universe was playing tricks on you.

Because standing right there, with a half-smirk on his face and way too much knowing mischief in his eyes, was Bucky. Alone.

You froze, instantly regretting every choice that had led to this moment. But it was too late now, so you plastered on a polite smile and tried not to look like a deer caught in headlights.

Bucky’s eyes twinkled as he took you in, leaning casually against the side of the elevator as he said, “Tired?”

You laughed, and before you could stop it, the laugh turned into a borderline deranged chuckle. 

“Oh, yes, thank you very much,” you replied, sarcasm slipping out before you could rein it in. Then, muttering under your breath but clearly audible, you added, “Maybe keep it down too… in the morning.”

He chuckled, looking way too amused. “Sorry about that. Work, you know? She, uh… went home right after, don’t worry.”

Your face went flaming hot, and you whipped your head to look straight ahead, pressing your lips together like that would somehow save you from this horror. 

“Oh, you don’t… you don’t have to explain it to me,” you stammered, feeling like your cheeks were practically on fire. “I’m not worried.”

The smirk only widened. “Good to know.” He leaned in just a little, adding, “I wouldn’t want to keep you up… unintentionally.”

You choked, your hand flying up to cover your mouth as you let out a mortified laugh that you could barely stop from turning into a squeak. Just get to your floor, just get to your floor… you chanted internally, keeping your gaze laser-focused on the elevator doors.

But you could feel him watching you, could practically feel the amusement radiating off him as you tried to pretend that your life hadn’t just devolved into a rom-com nightmare.

Finally—finally—the elevator dinged at your floor. You stepped out, sighing with relief, only for Bucky to step out right behind you.

“Hey,” he called, making you pause and turn reluctantly. He was smiling, hands casually shoved into his pockets as he looked you over. “Are you coming to the rooftop pool party this weekend?”

“No,” you replied flatly, the answer escaping before you could even pretend to think about it.

He laughed, clearly not deterred. “Aw, come on. You sure? It’ll be fun.”

You shook your head vigorously, waving him off. “No, no, I’m good. I’m… not much of a party person.”

“Really?” he replied, stepping a little closer, his smile turning into something dangerously persuasive. “It’s just neighbors hanging out, not some crazy nightclub thing. Good music, food… probably no loud… work, either.”

You glared, suppressing an eye roll as he gave you a wink. “I’ll pass, thanks.”

“Oh, come on,” he said, still grinning. “If you don’t show up, who am I going to talk to about all the ‘work’ complaints?”

You stifled a laugh, trying to maintain your resolve. “Pretty sure there are other people you can bother with that.”

“But none of them have your… constructive feedback,” he replied, his gaze dropping to the floor as he pretended to look shy. “And honestly, I need someone to keep me in check. I’m a handful at parties. Who else is going to stop me from climbing onto tables?”

You snorted, crossing your arms as you tried not to crack a smile. “I highly doubt you’re a handful at a pool party.”

He raised an eyebrow, challenging you. “Come and find out.”

You looked away, shaking your head but feeling the corners of your mouth tug upward. “Bucky, I’m not going.”

“So, you’re saying you’ll leave me up there with all these people who… don’t know me as well as you do?” He tilted his head, giving you a mock-pout.

Your face turned red, and you sputtered, “I don’t know you! I barely know you!”

“Oh, so all those research sessions weren’t exactly getting to know me?” he replied, grinning as he watched you turn an even deeper shade of crimson.

“You—ugh, you’re impossible,” you muttered, finally laughing despite yourself.

“That’s what everyone says,” he said, his voice softening just a little as he held your gaze. “Come on, Y/N. I promise, no loud work. I’ll even save you a spot.”

You sighed, feeling the last bit of resistance crumble. “Fine. But only for an hour.”

He beamed, triumphant. “Deal. And who knows? Maybe we’ll find something to actually talk about… outside of work.”

You rolled your eyes, trying to ignore the way your heart did a little flip. This is going to be a disaster, you thought. But somehow, you didn’t mind as much as you thought you would.

× × × × 

The weekend took forever to arrive, but somehow, you survived it—mostly by avoiding Bucky and doing your best not to think about that ridiculously intriguing video he’d hinted at. Nope, not even a peek. It was your own personal victory, though it took every ounce of willpower you had.

And now, here you were, standing at the rooftop entrance, mentally psyching yourself up. You’d put on a two-piece swimsuit under a white sheer cover-up, feeling only slightly self-conscious as you stepped out. Only because you hated drawing attention to your body. 

The party was already in full swing, a mix of upbeat music and laughter filling the air. You scanned the crowd for a certain troublemaking neighbor, but no sign of him. Great, you thought, rolling your eyes. Bucky drags me up here, then vanishes like an ass. Typical.

You made a beeline for an empty lounge chair, setting down your bag and towel, hoping you’d have a chance to relax before anyone else noticed you. But just as you were about to sit, a deep voice called out.

“Hey there!”

You turned to see an equally impressive figure—a tall, muscular guy with a sun-kissed smile, striding over with a confident swagger. 

“I’m Johnny,” he said, flashing a grin as he handed you a cold glass of beer. “Welcome to the party.”

“Oh! Thanks,” you said, taking the glass, feeling only slightly overwhelmed by all the testosterone on this rooftop. “Nice to meet you, Johnny.”

“Likewise,” he said, eyes flicking over you with the appreciation of someone who knew exactly what he was looking at. “Didn’t expect to see a new face up here. I know most of the regulars.”

“Yeah, I… usually keep to myself,” you admitted, suddenly feeling awkward under his gaze.

“Well, glad you’re here,” he said smoothly, gesturing to a chair beside yours. “Mind if I join you?”

Before you could answer, another familiar voice cut through the air, low and unmistakably amused. “Johnny.”

You turned slowly, bracing yourself for whatever cocky look Bucky had in store, but when you finally laid eyes on him, your brain just… stopped. No thoughts, head empty, because the second he strolled into view, you swore you heard the sultry opening saxophone of Careless Whisper start playing, echoing dramatically in your head like some corny, slow-motion rom-com entrance.

He moved in perfect sync to the imaginary music in your head, each step more absurdly cinematic than the last. This can’t be happening, you thought, but somehow, there he was—tan skin, swim trunks slung just right, and that damn casual shirt hanging open over his shoulders. The man looked like a vacation ad, except he was bringing you dangerously close to a heatstroke.

As he got closer, the sax solo in your mind reached ridiculous, life-altering levels of intensity. Why do you have to look like this? you thought, nearly choking on the vision before you. Bucky’s smirk turned into something almost smug, like he knew exactly what effect he was having, as if he, too, could hear the George Michael anthem of seduction playing in your head. You half-expected him to whip out an actual saxophone and start serenading you right there.

You swallowed, barely keeping yourself from drooling, and willed yourself to stay composed. Get a grip, you told yourself, though you were about 98% certain your jaw was on the verge of dropping.

“Sorry, Johnny,” he said smoothly, not even glancing at the other guy. “I think she already has company.”

You quickly tried to compose yourself, forcing a neutral expression as you willed your face not to betray the sheer catastrophe your brain was going through. 

“Oh, hey, Bucky,” you said, hoping your voice didn’t sound as strangled as you felt. Inside, you were practically screaming. Why do you have to look like a freaking Greek god, Barnes? It’s rude, honestly.

Johnny raised an eyebrow, his eyes flicking between the two of you, clearly picking up on the tension. “You two know each other?”

Bucky leaned casually against the lounge chair next to yours, flashing a grin that practically oozed mischief. 

“You could say that. She’s my neighbor,” he said, his tone implying… well, all sorts of things. You immediately knew that everyone within earshot was definitely getting the wrong idea. “And I’ve been trying to get her to come out of her shell for a while now.”

Come out of her shell? You wanted to throttle him. But before you could retort, Johnny, ever the gentleman, just gave you a knowing wink and clapped Bucky on the shoulder. 

“Well, guess I’ll let you take over, then,” he said, sauntering off with an amused smile.

You sighed, turning to face Bucky, who looked all too pleased with himself as he settled in beside you, stretching out like he owned the place. 

“So, you made it,” he said, taking a leisurely sip of his drink as his eyes did a once-over that was a little too thorough.

“Yep,” you replied, your voice barely concealing your exasperation. “I showed up, just like I said I would. Where were you?”

He shrugged, that stupid smirk still plastered on his face. “Was just giving you a chance to make some new friends,” he said, his tone way too casual.

You rolled your eyes, taking a sip of the beer Johnny had given you. “Please. You just love making an entrance.”

He chuckled, clinking his glass with yours. “Can’t say you’re wrong about that.”

As he leaned back, his gaze lingered a little too long, making your cheeks heat up. 

“Nice cover-up, by the way,” he commented, smirk widening. “It’s… modest.”

You shot him a look, feeling suddenly self-conscious about the sheer fabric draped over your swimsuit. “Why, thank you. That was kind of the point.”

“Yeah?” he replied, his voice dropping just a notch. “Shame, though. Bet that swimsuit’s got a whole lot of personality under there.”

You practically choked on your drink, coughing as you glared at him. “You’re such a flirt, Barnes.”

He chuckled, clearly unbothered by your reaction. “Hey, just saying what everyone’s thinking.”

You settled back in your chair, determined not to let him get the upper hand. But as you sat there, pretending to ignore him, you couldn’t shake the feeling that, despite everything, you were enjoying this game just as much as he was.

You took a deep breath, narrowing your eyes at Bucky, who was looking far too pleased with himself. 

“Like I said, just one hour,” you told him firmly, crossing your arms as if that would somehow fortify your resolve against whatever mischievous plans he undoubtedly had.

He raised an eyebrow, his smirk turning even more devilish. “Oh, I’m sure an hour will be more than enough.”

You scoffed, rolling your eyes. “For what? So you can drive me insane and then sit back and enjoy the show?”

He chuckled, leaning a little closer, and you felt your heart rate spike. “Maybe. But I was thinking more along the lines of just… keeping you entertained.”

“Oh, I’m plenty entertained, thanks,” you shot back, trying to sound unimpressed despite the heat creeping up your neck.

He shrugged, unfazed, and settled back into his lounge chair. 

“Good. Then let’s make it the best hour of your week,” he said, flashing you a wink that sent a new wave of exasperation—and, annoyingly, a bit of excitement—through you.

You huffed, shaking your head as you took a sip of your drink, determined not to let him see just how much that smirk was affecting you. Just one hour, you reminded yourself. What could possibly happen in one hour?

As you and Bucky settled into a strange, almost comfortable silence, you heard a booming voice from across the pool.

“CHICKEN FIGHT!” Johnny’s voice rang out, loud and enthusiastic, immediately grabbing everyone’s attention.

You whipped your head around, eyes widening. Johnny was wading into the pool, rallying everyone like some kind of pool party commander. “Come on! Everyone in! We need two teams!”

“Oh, no,” you muttered under your breath, instinctively shrinking into your lounge chair, hoping you’d be overlooked in the shuffle. Absolutely not happening, you thought, clutching your drink like a lifeline.

But Bucky, of course, was already grinning ear to ear. He turned to you, his eyes gleaming with excitement and mischief. 

“You heard him,” he said, patting your shoulder like this was some team-building exercise. “We’re going in.”

“What? No!” you hissed, clutching your drink tighter as if that would save you. “I didn’t sign up for a chicken fight. I’m just here for moral support.”

Bucky laughed, standing up and stretching in that way that only he could pull off without looking ridiculous. 

“Oh, come on,” he said, flashing you that smug, challenging grin. “Afraid of a little friendly competition?”

You shook your head, digging your heels in. “Nope. Not happening. And it’s not friendly—it’s dangerous!”

“Oh, don’t be such a chicken.” His smirk widened, and then, with a theatrical sigh, he added, “Guess I’ll just have to find someone braver.”

Your jaw dropped. “Oh, you’re really going to play that card?”

He shrugged, glancing around with feigned disappointment. “Guess so. Shame though. I thought you could handle it.”

It was the final straw. With an exasperated groan, you threw down your drink and stood up. 

“Fine! I’ll do it.” The second the words left your mouth, you instantly regretted them, especially as you saw Bucky’s smirk morph into full-blown satisfaction.

“Perfect,” he said, clearly thrilled with himself.

You sighed, slipping off your sheer cover-up, feeling a sudden self-consciousness as you stood there in just your swimsuit. Bucky’s gaze flicked over you with open admiration, his grin widening just a bit. You forced yourself to ignore the butterflies in your stomach, rolling your eyes at his blatant staring.

“Enjoying the view?” you deadpanned.

“Oh, absolutely,” he replied without missing a beat, his eyes twinkling. “But we’ve got a fight to win.”

Before you could second-guess your decision, he grabbed your hand and pulled you toward the pool. Johnny spotted the two of you and cheered, pumping his fist in the air. “Yes! We got a team! Bucky and… Y/N, right?”

You forced a smile, giving him a thumbs-up while silently planning your escape route. But before you knew it, you were waist-deep in the water, Bucky hoisting you up with surprising ease, positioning you on his shoulders.

“Oh my god, this is insane,” you muttered, gripping onto his head for balance as he adjusted to your weight. “I feel like a five-year-old at a theme park.”

“Just hold on,” he chuckled, steadying himself under you. “I’ve got you.”

Your heart skipped a beat as his hands firmly held your thighs, and suddenly, this was a whole new level of intense. Focus on the fight, not the incredibly attractive man holding you in the pool, you told yourself, cheeks flaming.

Johnny waded over with his partner—a muscular, tattooed guy named Jake who was definitely taking this way too seriously. 

“Ready to lose, Barnes?” Jake taunted, grinning up at you.

Bucky chuckled, his hands tightening on your legs just slightly. “Not a chance.”

“Alright, you’re up top!” Johnny yelled, clapping his hands. “Let’s see what you’ve got!”

You barely had time to brace yourself before Jake and his partner charged at you, water splashing everywhere as they made their move. Instinctively, you shrieked, grabbing onto Bucky’s hair for dear life as the force of the impact sent you both wobbling.

“Easy on the hair!” Bucky grunted, though he was laughing, his shoulders steadying beneath you as he held his ground.

“Oh, sorry!” you gasped, adjusting your grip. But before you could even catch your breath, Jake’s partner was lunging at you again, arms flailing as he tried to knock you off balance.

“Oh, no you don’t!” you muttered, your competitive spirit kicking in. You threw your hands out, grabbing his wrists and pushing back with everything you had, determined to hold your ground.

“Yeah, that’s it!” Bucky cheered from below, his laughter bubbling up as he shifted to help keep you steady. “Show ‘em what you’ve got!”

Fueled by his encouragement—and a surprising amount of adrenaline—you leaned forward, pushing against Jake’s partner with all your strength. The guy’s face twisted in concentration, but with one final shove, you managed to throw him off balance. He teetered, arms flailing, before finally toppling backward into the water with a massive splash.

“Yes!” you shouted, punching the air triumphantly as Johnny and Jake went down in a flurry of water and defeat. “Suck on that!”

The words had barely left your mouth when reality crashed back in. You blinked, suddenly realizing that maybe—just maybe—you’d gotten a little too carried away. Oh god, did I really just shout that? you thought, the heat rushing to your cheeks as your triumphant grin quickly turned into a sheepish smile.

“Well, look at you,” Bucky chuckled from below, clearly amused by your victory-induced outburst. “Didn’t know you had it in you.”

“Yeah, well… neither did I,” you muttered, feeling the embarrassment settling in as you tried to slide off his shoulders, desperate to save whatever shred of dignity you had left. But as you started to wriggle down, you realized Bucky’s hands were still firmly gripping your thighs, holding you in place.

You froze, looking down at him. “Uh, Bucky… you can, you know… let go now.”

He glanced up, smirking. “Oh, but you’re comfortable up there. Why rush it?”

You huffed, your face going a deeper shade of red. “Because I’m very much done being the human flagpole, thank you very much.”

Bucky’s grin only widened as he kept his hold, clearly enjoying the situation far more than he should. “Nah, I think I like you right where you are. Adds a bit of… height to my reputation.”

“Oh my god,” you groaned, feeling your mortification level spike. “If you don’t let me down, I swear I’ll—”

“Fine, fine,” he laughed, finally loosening his grip, letting you slide back into the water. But just as your feet touched down, he didn’t back away—instead, he shifted closer, his hands still lingering on your waist, his gaze locking onto yours with a look that sent your pulse racing.

You took a half-step back, but there was no real room to escape, not with the edge of the pool just behind you and Bucky’s broad frame in front, all mischief and steady, unbreakable eye contact. 

“You know,” he murmured, his voice low, “you could stay longer.”

Your breath hitched as Bucky leaned just the slightest bit closer, his hands still warm and steady on your waist, his smirk turning softer yet somehow more intense. Every nerve in your body seemed to jolt to life as he held your gaze.

You cleared your throat, attempting to find your voice amid the chaos of your thoughts. 

“Uh… stay longer? For what?” you managed, trying to sound casual, though your pulse was anything but.

His smirk grew, the corners of his mouth lifting in that way that was dangerously charming. 

“For the victory lap, of course,” he murmured, his voice just above a whisper. “After all, we did just crush the competition. Wouldn’t want you running off too fast.”

“Oh, right, a victory lap,” you muttered, trying to regain your composure but finding it difficult with his hands still lingering on your waist. “But I think the whole pool just watched that ‘lap’…”

“Then they got a good show,” he chuckled, his voice warm with that teasing tone you were starting to know all too well. “But the best part of winning is savoring it… right here.”

Your face went hot as his fingers brushed slightly against your sides, sending a little spark of energy straight up your spine. 

“Bucky,” you said, the word barely a whisper. “You’re… awfully close.”

“Oh, am I?” He didn’t back away; instead, he raised a brow, clearly enjoying your flustered reaction. “Didn’t hear you complaining when you were up there, champ.”

Your cheeks went impossibly warmer. “That was different. That was, you know… competitive. Strategic.”

“Competitive and strategic?” he echoed, his grin turning almost wicked. “Well, in that case…” He shifted his hands slightly, bringing you even closer as he leaned in. “Let’s see if you’re still competitive outside the game.”

He hovered just a breath away, his gaze flickering to your lips for a moment that felt like an eternity. You felt yourself leaning in almost on instinct, your pulse racing, and for one wild, heart-stopping second, it seemed like he might actually kiss you.

But then, as if on cue, someone nearby let out a loud, obnoxious cheer, snapping both of you out of the moment. The sound jolted you, and you quickly took a step back, breaking the tension as reality crashed in.

Bucky chuckled softly, looking slightly too smug as he let his hands fall from your waist. 

“Guess that victory lap will have to wait,” he murmured, giving you one last look that promised he wasn’t quite finished with his teasing yet.

You swallowed, desperately trying to get your heart rate back to normal. “Yeah, guess so.”

As the night went on, you’d lost count of how many concoction drinks had been handed to you, and at this point, your usual sense of caution was practically nonexistent. The rooftop was a haze of laughter, lights, and music, and the whole place felt like it was buzzing with energy. Any embarrassment from earlier had dissolved into pure, uninhibited confidence, each drink making you feel bolder than the last.

One minute, you were in a drinking game, cheering Bucky on as he took down a round of shots like it was nothing. The next, you found yourself in a game of truth or dare that had somehow escalated into body shots. You’d laughed, nearly choking on your drink, when you saw Bucky sprawled out on a table, daring you with that infuriating grin to take your turn.

“Oh, come on, that's not fair,” you slurred, trying to wave off the dare as he raised an eyebrow, that smug look firmly in place.

“Back out now if you can’t handle it,” he teased, lying back and folding his arms behind his head, acting like he hadn’t a care in the world.

The crowd cheered you on, and fueled by liquid courage, you rolled your eyes and leaned down, pressing your lips to his abs, feeling his warm skin under your touch as you took the shot in a quick, heated moment. His laughter mingled with the cheers around you, and you couldn’t help but feel a rush from the attention, from his gaze, from the heat spreading across your face.

Before you knew it, you were in a round of flip cup with Bucky as your teammate, and he downed his drink, slamming his cup down with a victorious shout. He grabbed you by the waist, lifting you up and spinning you around, both of you laughing so hard you could barely stand straight when he finally set you down.

Somehow, you ended up on the makeshift dance floor, music thumping as the party around you roared on, the lights around the rooftop pool casting a glow over everyone. You’d danced with other people throughout the night, but Bucky seemed to have a way of drawing you back, his energy magnetic, his laughter contagious. It was like he was everywhere you turned, keeping pace with you, matching every laugh and smirk with one of his own.

The music thumped, lights flashed, and the DJ’s voice blared over the speakers, “Alright, party people! Here’s the deal—find someone you want to… get close to tonight and give them a kiss, a hug, heck, even a lick if you’re feeling bold!”

Everyone around you burst into cheers and laughter, the party’s energy wild and reckless. By now, you were buzzing on so much liquid courage that everything felt like the best idea ever, including the fact that you were swaying against Bucky, who’d somehow stayed by your side all night.

He leaned in, his smirk way too mischievous, and the alcohol made it feel impossibly close. 

“Did you hear that?” he slurred, barely keeping the laughter out of his voice. “I think it’d be a shame if we ignore the DJ’s request don’t you?”

You rolled your eyes, trying to brush it off, but he just grinned wider, leaning in until his cheek was practically pressed against yours. 

“Hold still,” he whispered, a laugh lurking in his voice.

Then, in a move so outrageous you could barely comprehend it, he dragged his tongue slowly from your chin up to your forehead.

“Bucky!” you shrieked, stumbling back and half falling over yourself, laughter bubbling out of you as you clutched your face in shock. “Oh my god, you did not just—”

He stepped back, looking beyond pleased with himself, the grin on his face pure, unfiltered pride. 

“What? I’m just being… obedient,” he slurred, raising his hands in mock innocence.

“You are the worst!” you squealed, laughing so hard you could barely keep it together, grabbing his arm as you steadied yourself, still half in disbelief. He just chuckled, clearly reveling in your reaction as he pulled you right back into the rhythm, your laughter mixing with the cheers around you as the dance floor pulsed with music.

They cranked up the music, and suddenly, the beat was all around you, pulsing through the crowd, as if daring everyone to let loose. The energy was infectious, and you found yourself moving in sync with him, laughing as you danced together, every touch and sway between you crackling with a chemistry that had been simmering all night.

Without thinking, you stepped closer, your hands drifting to his chest, letting your fingers splay against the warm, solid muscle. Your movements grew slower, more deliberate, and his hands instinctively found your waist, pulling you against him until there was barely any space left between you. His gaze dropped, glued on your lips, and you felt a shiver run through you, your breath hitching as he leaned in, his face just inches from yours. His nose brushed yours, and you looked up to meet his gaze, seeing the same surprised intensity reflected in his eyes.

Bucky held your gaze, his breath mingling with yours, and you could feel the tension building, electric and undeniable. He was waiting—leaving the next move up to you. If you wanted him, you knew he’d let you take him.

🎶Just let me know, can you be the one to hold and not let me go?🎶

Heart pounding, you somehow managed to press yourself even closer, feeling the swell of your chest against him, igniting a flush across his cheeks. But it wasn’t embarrassment you saw in his eyes—it was heat, a look that sent a thrill down your spine. His hand shifted, his fingers tracing along the curve of your hip, and you could feel the strength of his grip as he held you.

🎶I need to know, could you be the one to call when I lose control?🎶

The tension was unbearable, and as you tilted your face up, your lips brushed his in the softest, most hesitant caress—a question, an invitation. His resolve crumbled instantly. His hand slid to your waist, gripping the flesh there as his other hand threaded into your hair, guiding your head back so he could kiss you deeper, tasting you with an intensity that left you breathless. You let out a startled, breathless sound, and he responded by pulling you closer, cradling your face as if you were something precious, something he couldn’t bear to let go of.

Your lips parted for him, and he kissed you with a hunger that had been building for some time. His tongue traced yours, swallowing your quiet moans, anchoring you to him as his hand kept you steady. It wasn’t forceful, just… tender, like he was holding something priceless.

Your breaths came heavy, your cheeks flushed, but you barely noticed; all you could feel was him, his touch, his heartbeat pounding against yours, and the fire in his veins matching your own. In that moment, propriety, the crowd around you, everything else faded into oblivion. If he wanted you to take him right there, you couldn’t even think of saying no.

Every nerve in your body was alive, tingling with an incredible sense of lust and need as his arms held you close. His lips pressed harder, deepening the kiss, his passion and intensity only spurring you to match it. You melted against him, completely consumed by the heat and need between you, and for those moments, it was as if nothing else existed. Oxygen became secondary; the only thing that mattered was the connection between you, growing more fervent with each second.

Finally, when the need for air became overwhelming, you both broke apart, gasping, your faces inches from each other, breaths mingling as you took each other in. His lips tingled, mirroring your own, and every beat of your heart seemed to urge you back into his embrace.

“Let’s get out of here… yours or mine?” Bucky stammered between breaths, his voice husky, his eyes still filled with fire. His body radiated heat, and he looked like he’d dive into the pool at any second just to cool down.

“Mine,” you whispered, your voice breathless, cheeks flushed, a shy smile tugging at your lips as you held his gaze.

× × × × 

You both barely made it down the hallway before the urgency hit, the tension that had been building all night finally snapping. Bucky’s hands were everywhere—gripping your waist, pulling you against him as you fumbled for your keys, the both of you practically tripping over each other in your haste. As soon as you managed to unlock the door, you pushed it open, stumbling inside, his mouth crashing into yours before it even closed behind you.

Wetness pooled inside you, the need for him overwhelming as you pressed back against the door, his body meeting yours in a frenzy of heat and desperation. His stubble scraped against your skin, rough and deliciously manly, a reminder that he was all raw power and intensity. You loved it, the way it scratched against your cheek, adding to the thrill and making your skin tingle wherever he touched.

His lips found the side of your neck, warm and insistent as he kissed his way down, nipping softly, each touch leaving you breathless. You tilted your head back, giving him more access, exposing the full length of your neck to his hungry mouth. His hands slid up your sides, his fingers pressing in firmly, possessively, as his teeth grazed your skin, sending a jolt of electricity through you.

“God,” he murmured against your skin, his voice rough with desire. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted this.”

You could only gasp, clutching onto him as his mouth moved up to your jaw, his hands never stilling, gripping you as if he couldn’t bear to let go. Bucky reached a hand up and placed it on your left breast, over the bikini top, and then brought his hand up to the back of your neck to pull you in closer to him. You undid the straps of your top, and down fell the top, exposing your naked breasts to him.

Holy shit—this can’t be real. Am I hallucinating? Is this actually happening? Wait—oh god, is he about to put my boobs in his mouth?!

Like a hungry child desperate for milk Bucky suckled on your nipple, squeezing the bottom of your breast passionately with one hand, and holding the other breast in his other hand. You looked down at him, licking, sucking, rubbing, and he looked as though he was transported to paradise.

He worked himself into a frenzy playing with your breast, until he wanted more. He lifted you up under your thighs, off the floor, and pressed your back against the wall.

Oh shit!

He kissed you again, his hand sliding down to press against you over your bikini bottom. With a quick, desperate motion, he tugged the fabric to the side, his fingers brushing bare skin, making your breath hitch.

As his hand cupped you, he began to move slowly, his fingers exploring, teasing. “Damn,” he murmured, his voice thick with surprise and satisfaction. “You’re so wet. Is this what happens every time you watch my videos?”

“M-maybe…” you stammered, cheeks heating, barely able to meet his eyes as a grin spread across his face.

His fingers slid inside you, moving with a slow, deliberate rhythm, each motion sending sparks through your entire body. He leaned in, his breath hot against your ear as he asked, “How many times have you touched yourself thinking about me?”

You bit your lip, trying to hold back a moan as he continued, each movement intensifying the heat pooling inside you. 

“Mmmh—why would I tell you that?” you managed, trying to sound teasing but barely able to keep your voice steady.

His grin widened, a mischievous glint in his eyes as his fingers pressed deeper, his thumb brushing against you just right. “Because I want to hear every filthy detail.”

He kissed your other nipple, the one he missed when before. Bucky always gave equal time to the breasts. Suckling on one nipple, fingering you harder and harder, you were getting more and more excited for the moment he would penetrate you.

“Oh my god—” You swallowed, feeling your face heat up and you could feel yourself slightly sobering up. With a nervous laugh, you finally gave in, your voice soft but steady.

“Fine… sometimes, late at night—ah—I’d imagine you between my legs, devouring me like your life depended on it,” you whispered, feeling your cheeks burn. “I’d—fuck—I’d think about your hands, the way they’d feel inside me, moving exactly like this…mmmh,” you gasped as his fingers pressed deeper, your own words sparking the desire between you. 

His fingers never stopped their steady, torturous rhythm, each movement deliberate, coaxing you toward the edge with a patience that was as maddening as it was intoxicating.

“And? That’s it?” he asked, his tone thick with amusement, daring you to reveal more. His thumb brushed against you in just the right way, as if encouraging you to keep talking, to give him every last detail he was craving.

“And—hah—I’d picture you… spitting in my mouth while you’re turning me on, you’d put your hand on my neck while I beg you to i dunno? reorganize my guts—because you’re so big Bucky. . . I don’t think you’ll fit inside me.”

“Oh the innocent looking ones are always the dirtiest.” Bucky’s smirk turned darker, his fingers pressing into you with a newfound intensity, his digits hooking and pressing into your most sensitive spot, causing your hips to jerk against his palm. 

“And was I just as good in your imagination as I am now?” he murmured, voice low and rough, sending shivers straight down your spine.

“Yes… yes…” The words left your lips almost involuntarily, your hands gripping his shoulders as your nails dug in, grounding yourself against the overwhelming sensation. Your face twisted with pleasure, each stroke of his digits making it harder to catch your breath. 

Bucky’s eyes darkened with a fierce satisfaction as he watched you, his smirk deepening. “Better than you imagined?”

"Mhhm," you tried to respond, but it came out more like a needy moan, your voice barely a whisper under the intensity of his touch.

Bucky's smirk grew at the sound, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction as he took in every reaction, every tremble. "That’s what I thought," he murmured, his voice dark and teasing.

Bucky carried you through the open door of your bedroom, his movements purposeful, every touch sending sparks across your skin. When he reached the edge of the bed, he lowered you onto the mattress, but before letting you go, he bent down to capture your lips in a kiss—a kiss that felt as intimate as it did electrifying.

You couldn’t help but notice the difference; this was something he never did in his videos. Bucky never kissed anyone on the lips on screen. But here, he kissed you slowly, deeply.

His hands moved to your shoulders, firm but gentle as he guided you back into the soft downy mattress. “There you go, baby,” he murmured, his voice warm and low. “Lean back.”

He knelt down at the side of the bed. He pulled off your panties, the final barrier to your sex. He pushed your legs apart and back, and gazed at your pussy, already wet for him.

He stared at your exposed pussy for ten seconds, admiring it like it was the greatest work of art he had ever seen.

"Your pussy," he said, his lips nearly brushing your sex. "It's beautiful.”

You lifted your  head up and looked at him. Your jaw was dropped and you were already starting to feel tingles up your body, even though he hadn't licked you yet. You heard his breathing get heavier and heavier, he was so excited to put his lips on your pussy.

Two large fingers of his left hand spread your lips. Two large fingers of his right hand rubbed your clit in strong circles. Each circle sends a shock wave through your body.

"You smell fantastic," he declared, and he dove his mouth right on top of your wet and stimulated clit. Up and down he licked. Up and down, his mouth clasped tight against your pussy.

"Oh," you moaned, as your eyes rolled up to the back of your head. Your arms—with a mind of their own—grabbed the back of your thighs and lifted them back, presenting yourself to this man who used to be on the screen and was now bringing you to ecstasy. He'd only just started to lick you, but even so you felt ready for him to enter you and never leave. 

As Bucky continued to eat you like you’re his last meal, each suction sending thrills through you, a sudden wave of doubt crashed over you, freezing you in place. Images flooded your mind—women he’d been with, all effortlessly beautiful, the kind who exuded confidence and allure. How could you compare? This had to be nothing more than another fleeting thing for him, a “friendship” that would end the moment the night was over.

You tensed, your hands moving to gently push him back. “Bucky… wait,” you managed, your voice barely above a whisper.

He looked up from between your legs, his expression softening instantly as he met your gaze. 

“What’s wrong?” he asked, his voice gentle, concerned.

“I… I just…” You stammered, the words getting caught in your throat before you finally managed, “I don’t want to be… one of your girls.”

Bucky blinked, taken aback, his expression shifting as if the words had struck something unexpected, almost offended. 

“One of my girls?”

You nodded, biting your lip as you searched for the right way to explain. “I… I don’t do one-night stands,” you admitted, feeling vulnerable. 

Bucky nodded slowly, his tongue pressing into his cheek as he rose to his feet. "Mhm—no, I get it... it's because of my job," he said, his tone carrying a hint of defensiveness.

You sat up, noticing the shift in his demeanor. "Are you mad?" you asked softly, uncertainty creeping into your voice.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'm not mad," he replied, though his clenched jaw suggested otherwise. "I just didn't think you'd see me that way."

"See you what way?" you pressed gently.

He met your gaze, his eyes reflecting a mix of frustration and vulnerability. "Like I'm some guy who just goes around collecting flings," he explained. "I thought you knew me better than that."

You swallowed, choosing your words carefully. “It's not that I think poorly of you,” you said. “It's just... your work makes things complicated for me. I don't want to be another notch on anyone's belt.”

He took a deep breath, his expression softening. “I understand where you're coming from,” he admitted. “But believe me when I say that this—” he gestured between the two of you “—is different for me.”

“How do I know that?” you asked quietly.

He stepped closer, his eyes sincere. “Because I don't share moments like this with just anyone,” he said. “You think I go around kissing people like that? Off-camera, in my real life?”

Bucky’s expression shifted, his brows knitting together as he crossed his arms, clearly growing more frustrated. “I thought you knew the difference between who I am on-camera and who I am off it,” he replied, his tone clipped.

You sighed, trying to hold your ground. “Bucky, you’re the one who kept teasing me to watch your videos, practically encouraging me to make it my new hobby—how am I supposed to ignore what you do?”

He scoffed, running a hand through his hair in irritation. “Because those videos aren’t me,” he said, voice rising. “You’re acting like everything I do there is just some extension of my personal life, but it’s a job, Y/N. I don’t go around living like that off-set.”

You crossed your arms, not caring that the blanket had slipped off, leaving you bare before him. 

“And I’m supposed to just... pretend that all of it doesn’t mean anything?” you shot back, feeling a twinge of vulnerability but refusing to let it show. “You kept making those jokes, those comments—you have to see how confusing it is for me.”

He took a step closer, his eyes narrowing. “And you think I just do that with everyone? That every person who walks into my life gets these... moments with me?” His gaze softened slightly as he gestured between the two of you. “If that were the case, do you think I’d be here, right now, trying to convince you?”

You opened your mouth to reply, but the words caught in your throat. His intensity was throwing you off balance, forcing you to question your assumptions. You’d expected him to brush this off or laugh, not take it to heart.

He shook his head, a frustrated laugh escaping him. “You don’t get it, do you?” He looked at you, his eyes full of something you couldn’t quite name. “I don’t have to be here, fighting for this. I could have walked away and yet here I am.”

You swallowed hard, feeling a lump form in your throat as the weight of his words settled heavily between you. The intensity of his gaze, the raw honesty in his voice—it was all too much, too fast, and yet it tugged at something deep inside you, making it impossible to brush off. But your heart was pounding, confusion and vulnerability swirling together, and you weren’t ready to face everything his words were unearthing.

“I… I think we should call it a night,” you said quietly, barely able to meet his gaze, the words coming out softer than you intended.

For a moment, he looked at you, his expression unreadable, and you could see him processing your response. Then, with a quiet sigh, he nodded, stepping back to give you space.

“Alright,” he replied, his voice subdued. “If that’s what you want.”

The room felt suddenly colder, the tension between you now tinged with a quiet ache. You could tell he was holding back more that he wanted to say, but he respected your decision, his expression guarded as he looked away.

You bit your lip, your mind racing with things you couldn’t bring yourself to say, with emotions you weren’t quite ready to admit. 

“Thank you… for understanding,” you managed, feeling the weight of your choice settle over you.

He gave a small nod, his jaw tight, before he turned toward the door. 

“Goodnight, Y/N,” he said softly, pausing for a moment as if hoping you might change your mind, before finally leaving your apartment, the main door shutting made you flinch even though Bucky closed it softly.

The silence that followed felt heavier than you expected. The tension that had filled the room moments ago lingered, and a wave of frustration washed over you, mixing with regret and uncertainty. You took a shaky breath, running a hand through your hair before letting out a long, exhausted sigh.

Without thinking, you grabbed the nearest pillow, buried your face into it, and let out a muffled scream, releasing all the emotions you couldn’t quite put into words. The pillow absorbed the sound, but it did nothing to ease the twist of emotions churning inside you. Finally, you pulled the pillow away, feeling just as conflicted as before, wondering if you’d made the right choice… or a terrible mistake.

tags: @bohoooitsme @barnescamboy @strangefunthornqueen @mayusenpai666 @seven0714

@rabbitrabbit12321 @alexsl-universe @xunquish-blog @hzdhrtss @winchestert101

@alyana-luvs-u @itsbuckysworld

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Alaina Demopoulos at The Guardian:

McKenna, who is 24 and lives in a rural, conservative state, recently got back on dating apps after a year of finding herself. She had two first dates planned for this weekend, but after Donald Trump won the election, she cancelled both. “It’s heartbreaking to know that in this country you only matter if you’re a straight white man,” she said. “It’s just devastating that we’re at this point. So I will not let another man touch me until I have my rights back.” McKenna, who did not want her last name published for privacy reasons, first heard about 4B a few months ago, via a TikTok video referring to the South Korean social movement. The basic idea: women swear off heterosexual marriage, dating, sex and childbirth in protest against institutionalized misogyny and abuse. (It is called 4B in reference to these four specific no-nos.) The mostly online movement began around 2018 protests against revenge porn and grew into South Korea’s #MeToo-esque feminist wave.

In the wake of Trump’s victory, 4B is once again on McKenna’s mind – and she’s not the only one. Trump’s embrace of manosphere figures such as Joe Rogan, the Nelk Boys and Adin Ross means he has strong support among their evangelists – mainly, young men. But for young women, the former president’s long history of misogyny means a vote for Trump is a vote against feminism, especially with reproductive rights as a key issue in 2024. Ahead of the US election, pundits predicted a history-making gender gap, and early exit polls support that prediction: women aged 18-29 went overwhelmingly left, while Trump picked up ground with their male counterparts compared with 2020. With the race called, TikToks viewed hundreds of thousands of times offered one way for women to go for the jugular: 4B, specifically cutting off contact with men. “Girls it’s time to boycott all men! You lost your rights, and they lost the right to hit raw! 4b movement starts now!” one creator wrote on TiKTok in a video viewed 3.4m times. In another video, a woman exercises on a stair climber machine. “Building my dream body that no man will touch for the next 4 years,” reads the caption. The top comment on her post: “In the club, we all celibate.” On Wednesday, Google searches for “4B” spiked by 450%, with the most interest coming from Washington DC, Colorado, Vermont and Minnesota. In South Korea, 4B began as an offshoot of national protests against the spycam epidemic, in which perpetrators filmed targets – most of whom were women – during sex or while urinating in public bathrooms without their knowledge or consent.

[...]

As with #MeToo in the US, men have called 4B an overreach, and discriminatory. South Korea’s conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, ran on a platform of abolishing the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, which protects against gender-based violence and discrimination, saying feminists were to blame for the country’s economic woes.

Haein Shim, a South Korean activist and current undergraduate researcher at Stanford University’s Clayman Institute for Gender Research, said in an email that women who participated in 4B protests faced cyberbullying, harassment, stalking and threats of violence. “Many of us wore masks, sunglasses, and hats to cover our faces, and it was common practice to dress differently before and after a protest to minimize being stalked.” There were more nuanced critiques, too. “Some debated if it was a sustainable way to participate in feminism, because it was a total disconnect with men, and some people believe there have to be productive conversations among people with different world views in order for society to move forward,” Lee said. Feminists expressed concern over whether 4B “disregarded heterosexual women’s desires, in order to punish men who may or may not have participated in misogyny”.

Shim, the activist, says that 4B goes beyond just boycotting men, and encourages women to find solidarity with each other. “It’s a new lifestyle focused on building safe communities, both online and in-person, and valuing our existence in this crazy world,” she said. “What we want is not to be labeled simply as some man’s wife or girlfriend, but to have the independence to be free from the societal expectations that often limit women’s potential to be fully acknowledged as human beings.” Second wave feminist groups of the 1960s and 70s such as Cell 16, which advocated celibacy and separation from men, and political lesbians, who opted out of heterosexuality, were historically deemed as extreme – or simply trendy. 4B, a more contemporary movement that mostly lives online, may seem more accessible to gen Z women. On TikTok, 4B posts play as communal and therapeutic, a way to take back control during a time when basic rights are at stake.

Donald Trump's election, combined with the erosion of abortion access post-Roe, has fueled an angry backlash among feminist-inclined women by importing the South Korean 4B Movement to the States.

[mithrilandvilya]

Workout Plan to be a bad@ss in Middle Earth ;)

17th - LOTRweek Free Day - Workout Plan to be a bad@ss in Middle Earth 

Pick either a targeted workout or a whole body workout day. 

To do a targeted workout, do all/most of the workouts in one body group, plus some mobility, and cardio if you have time.  You may want to begin/end with a few of the mobility and do the strength training in the middle. 

To do a whole body workout, pick one or two exercises from each body sub group (arms, shoulders, torso, abs, lower back/glutes, legs, balance/mobility, and cardio if you have time).   

You may also want to sometimes do a day that focuses just on cardio or just on balance/mobility.   

I recommend you aim to do one to two gym days per week (at least one consistently and if you can do two then that is better) and one other day of either gym or active play/sport like going for a walk or bike ride, swimming, pickle ball, or some other activity.  Some house/yard work of reasonable length/intensity would count but just not as fun. 

For all exercises involving weights, pick a weight you can do about 8-12 of with it getting hard at the end. Do 2-3 sets with rest in between.  Next time try the next weight up first and do as many as you can, if any, and then go back to lower weight only if needed.  Each exercise may require a different weight. Bring a little booklet and for each day write down what you do and what weight/count/time so you can know what to try next time. Your goal is to ultimately keep increasing weight over time while maintaining good form.  Do not do any exercise if it exacerbates a problem.  Often you can pick another from the same group that does something similar.    

UPPER BODY 

Shoulders 

Shoulder Press (machine or dumbbells) https://youtu.be/0JfYxMRsUCQ?si=LgYaMiFalXf1nPZ_   

Front raises (dumbbells) https://youtu.be/-t7fuZ0KhDA?si=2TN6UoQ0nKWnz4wL  

Side raises (dumbbells) https://youtu.be/3VcKaXpzqRo?si=IwoRfazYiji8ZXzL  

Arnold press (dumbbells) https://youtu.be/6Z15_WdXmVw?si=a29i4zBNiL_qfhvA  

Reverse fly (dumbbells) https://youtu.be/JoCRRZ3zRtI?si=qz8hRGPUQJzKEAJO  

Arms 

Concentration curls (dumbbells)  https://youtu.be/0AUGkch3tzc?si=RxDT4qknJJHZ02iB  

Hammer curls (dumbbells) https://youtu.be/TwD-YGVP4Bk?si=G_Rg2DNwHMOFfjoA  

Dips (assisted dip machine or body weight on bench) https://youtu.be/YFnVxMk5MEs?si=eWvVMGJt91Ail3zM  

Skull crushers (dumbbells)  https://youtu.be/71BrykW90MY?si=oluBXpvodzcXmydI  

Bar hang (just hang from a bar and hold on as long as you can)  https://youtu.be/4RqNGRVaTUQ?si=3g6-wtXy-l4m2NVU  

Reverse curls https://youtu.be/rV2asdIdXF0?si=fOIBeS30LjBn8JRf  

Torso 

Lat pull downs (machine) https://youtu.be/kwJeh3QyhVE?si=36gMaEjou1yhvmMD  

Push ups (wall, knee, or regular) https://youtu.be/jWxvty2KROs?si=oeQFma-fizXxPREE  

Bench press (dumbbells) https://youtu.be/VmB1G1K7v94?si=LC4XUDKP1WoM6eRZ  

Rows (machine or dumbbells) https://youtu.be/pYcpY20QaE8?si=hudoHYw_6rJXUYmP  

Abs 

Dead bugs https://youtu.be/zechBkcIMf0?si=Wq-jZHIhaenhGQ5F  

Leg lifts https://youtu.be/Zr-PtqcpeWM?si=VmYgjfTsFTIVmDpv  

Lateral leg lifts https://youtu.be/fNAu_PZfgsk?si=H8oAQsjlcva2VyYl  

Plank https://youtu.be/yeKv5oX_6GY?si=O5CK41Jr4lq6rlaq  

V-hold https://youtu.be/1wBgF_AJeWE?si=zh3xh0L5LkDs7rIP  

Penguins https://youtu.be/gVCK6QhqAmI?si=I4ys0tZQ_r9UA66G  

Side planks https://youtu.be/9dNL_mtObGQ?si=rIZVw-Q5J6Wh6z29  

Rollup/downs https://youtu.be/ZXMiR4CQOp8?si=Vpnc188DgiwN9GuO  

Lower back/glutes 

Glute bridges https://youtu.be/Q_Bpj91Yiis?si=oizgvoQHH06uo7l-  

Marching bridges https://youtu.be/4LQUPybxCnI?si=WvDd347cqmDKwAD0  

Superman https://youtu.be/J9zXkxUAfUA?si=T4Zl3-TCMXUOqBrr  

Swimmers https://youtu.be/bY6ZyiO_7ek?si=QgJYd7UgbaqNh1MK  

Bird dogs/pointers https://youtu.be/QABW99qPiNM?si=JwhBBPSg40fd_jIZ  

Stair climber machine https://youtu.be/sudbdjw6-Vc?si=1Ka_e-SvAg5-MrfH  

Not Mountain Climbers https://youtu.be/RHpTMT9a8f8?si=knRxbm2ViY8MQmqg  

Legs 

Leg press machine https://youtu.be/IZxyjW7MPJQ?si=k1-cX8579As7NiY9  

Calf raises (standing or with machine) https://youtu.be/eMTy3qylqnE?si=oh5PunqjycS6jc8A  

Quad extension machine https://youtu.be/ljO4jkwv8wQ?si=EtzUFqrAY0P4xQAq  

Hamstring extension machine https://youtu.be/ELOCsoDSmrg?si=BiLP7MuCC98aj-5v  

Ab/adductor machine (both ways) https://youtu.be/G_8LItOiZ0Q?si=IWc3LbYtoEsXzFzw  

Bodyweight squat or sit-stands https://youtu.be/KvNekaClQV8?si=-DNTrDFIFM-4qRjb  

Bodyweight split squat or lunge https://youtu.be/Z180zu0Hk9k?si=ODYo7xpI9Njv01QN  

Dumbbell deadlifts https://youtu.be/gLogcYIvgRA?si=F4W37rwIpByEc1QA   

Balance/Mobility 

Stork Stances https://youtu.be/WdcdFmclbNw?si=BAFC0mQwnLGHtF61  

Hip Circles (from all fours) https://youtu.be/iLopAskDMqk?si=MmYdReilSAYMKcvh  

Side lying Arm Circles https://youtu.be/c1u8sr0fhnU?si=SdbX_hVF0iXK5WZc  

Single leg balance/tree pose https://youtu.be/F3hYUO3IF28?si=5m6SDqcMuOUIu9Hr  

From side laying, back twist https://youtu.be/-7XWweC0ivs?si=XS4_b8odiBgOmId-  

From back laying, flop knees side to side slowly https://youtu.be/mNdJti7ZwKI?si=eb_rUdtTdbR5w6ty 

Clamshells https://youtu.be/tQ6pqITQx_Q?si=-AFQvwfskBO1ZIgB  

Runners stretches https://youtu.be/EXCIBkqxcYE?si=bvhx-9jorw-vQ4i3  

Butterflies https://youtu.be/4J7kbCmPScQ?si=oWsDndpvB1WSgpso  

High knees https://youtu.be/XJ7p38tCUFI?si=kNx3ZZ3WfR9CV_tu  

Inch worms https://youtu.be/SZPEOmobz5E?si=9n4Ap3EPYvSvJbkB  

Single leg  rear dead lift (bodyweight) https://youtu.be/7PGghDSVvwQ?si=d-vQXuF85fZs0Fsn  

Frog stance (deep wide squat pose) https://youtu.be/0wzrgyAurT8?si=pcK8kgQ4qvvirbS2  

Cat/cows https://youtu.be/vuyUwtHl694?si=Uhl6p8qiqxL1ysx4  

Figure 4 stretch https://youtu.be/Xb5gHdYtHnk?si=YC6xDsVgQxOCUJZR  

Cardio – work on gradually increasing intensity and time.  Each day pick one or the other and try to increase it by one increment or 1-5 minutes/repeats 

Any cardio machine (rower, bike, treadmill, elliptical, stairmaster, etc.) 

Push/pull sled 

Laps on indoor track or walking/cycling outside 

Any court sport participation (basketball, volleyball, pickleball, etc.) 

Any exercise class on the schedule at the gym (many also work on strength) 

Swimming  

[thinwishes-tinydreams]

198.2

it's been a very long time. i went to australia for 6 months and ate whatever i wanted and hardly exercised. i got home last week and got my gym membership back. it's going to be a long road to health, but i have to start somewhere. today i didn't eat and went to the gym - 10 minutes on machines (legs!), 10 minutes on stair climber and 10 minutes cardio (fast walking and jogging). i'm down two pounds from when i arrived home, but i'm going out to my favorite dinner in the world tonight... sigh. just need to eat less and be consistent at the gym. even 30 minutes like today would be great. as soon as work starts and it's built into my routine, it will be easier. and i can starve all day at work, too. back at it again, trying to be better for summer. would love to lose 30 pounds by june... that's 3 months. can you lose 30 pounds in 3 months? maybe. i've gotta try.

[crestfitness]

Stair climbers are an excellent choice for individuals looking for a versatile and effective workout. They offer the benefits of both cardio and strength training, making them an ideal addition to any fitness routine. Whether you're working out at home or in the gym, the stair climber provides an efficient way to achieve your fitness goals. So, step up to the challenge and incorporate stair climbing into your exercise regimen to enhance your overall health and well-being.

[skillzyo]

went to the gym after work today. walked on the treadmill for twenty minutes (specifically to hit a mile) and did a few dumbbell exercises. most impressively, I tried out the stair climber machine which I’ve never done before. .... I only did it for two and a half minutes and holy shit did I feel every second of it. I’m kind of excited to use it again.

[wariomolly]

I went to the gym today!!!!!!! and i cried just like i expected!! but it felt really good :)

basically i am agoraphobic and i dont have a job and im starting to go arir crazy laying around the house so i envisioned what it would look and feel like to go to the gym, to mentally prepare myself. (i think its my audhd that prohibits me from doing new things unless i mentally map out exactly what im going to do and wear and say and think) i envisioned it so much that it came true !!!! manifestation babey!!!! now i just need $120/ month to pay for the membership and keep it up until its a habit

i did a half mile of stair climber and some weights and the rowing machine and then the sauna!!! 🧖‍♀️

if i cant have a job or health care i want to at least be as physically healthy as i can achieve. this is gonna be a tough journey but its what i want. and im oretty good at getting what i want i mean im comfortable and havent worked for MONTHS. thats god taking care of me ;-;

[metalgearemily]

oh hey i also fell out of working out! gyms are expensive (which is why i quit going to one lmao) but if you do, what's your favourite machine? personally a huge fan of the rowing machine, and i've always been too much of a baby to try out lifting weights because i'm all noodle arms but i might invest in some small ones since i'm moving into a place with enough space to actually work out

Gyms are so expensive T_T i stayed at my moms house this winter break and was going to a boxing gym w my friend and each session was 20 bucks 🫥 and if you wanted to do a monthly fee it was 100 bucks 😱 luckily my college gym is free for students I just get anxiety over going 😭 but if I just started going consistently again I wouldn’t be anxious about it lol…. I usually use machines for some warmups and go to some weight lifting. My favorite is probably the stair climber! That thing is a killer. Weight lifting is great!! It’s all linear when you gain muscle so just starting out with small weights until you can raise the weight(lol) is the way to go! I wanna get back to where I was in high school, I beat a school record for the hip thrust with 365 pounds woooo!! I always encourage weight lifting because it’s great to physically notice how much stronger you are : D

[aroundthefir]

What's your workout routine?

wake up do an ab workout at home go to the gym (spend 30 mins on stair climber + 30 on the treadmill and some other random machines) then i go home and shower and do a yoga video at home

i do this everyday except I skip gym on wednesdays, sat and Sunday

[starving-shartist]

I'm so fucking pissed this didn't happen on a stair climber machine

accidentally hit something on the treadmill at my gym and it opened a web browser??

[willpaul229]

How to Inspect Gym Equipment in Online Liquidation Auctions Before Buying

Buying gym equipment through online liquidation auctions can be an affordable way to stock up on fitness gear, whether for a home gym, fitness studio, or commercial gym. These auctions offer quality, commercial-grade equipment at lower prices, but because buyers typically cannot examine items in person, it’s critical to inspect listings carefully. Here’s a guide to help you confidently evaluate gym equipment when browsing online gym liquidation sales.

1. Know the Market Value of Equipment

Before you start bidding, take time to understand the fair market value of the equipment you’re eyeing. Look up retail prices and compare them to similar listings on new and used gym equipment sites. Knowing the average price range for each piece helps you spot a good deal and avoid overpaying for outdated or less reliable items.

For instance, a commercial treadmill from a reputable brand like Life Fitness or Precor may retain more value over time than lesser-known brands. Additionally, check out the going rates for different types of machines, like cable machines, ellipticals, or free weights, so you can assess each item’s true value.

2. Review Product Photos in Detail

Online listings depend heavily on photos to show an item’s condition. Look for high-resolution images that allow you to zoom in and carefully inspect each piece. Key areas to scrutinize include visible signs of wear or damage—check for rust on metal parts, wear on cables, scratches on screens, and cracks on plastic or rubber components.

If only a few images are available, contact the seller or auction house for more. The more you can see, the better you’ll understand the condition of components like handles, foot pedals, digital screens, and upholstery, which can reveal how much use the machine has endured.

3. Analyze the Description

Product descriptions provide essential details about the equipment. Look for notes on the brand, model, age, and maintenance history, along with any recent repairs. Well-maintained items often last longer and perform better than neglected ones.

Also, pay close attention to the seller’s terms. Words like “as-is,” “refurbished,” or “lightly used” all mean different things. For example, “refurbished” suggests repairs have been made to restore functionality, whereas “as-is” typically means it’s sold in its current state, which could mean repairs are needed. Understanding the terminology commonly used in gym liquidation sales will help you interpret each listing accurately.

4. Research the Brand and Model

Not all brands are built to the same quality standards, so it’s helpful to know which ones are known for longevity and reliability. Popular brands like Nautilus or Hammer Strength are known for making durable, commercial-grade equipment.

Reading reviews on specific models can also help you gauge potential issues. For example, if you find a treadmill with consistently positive reviews about durability and ease of use, you’re likely dealing with a solid option. Understanding other users’ experiences can help you avoid equipment with recurring issues or expensive repair needs.

5. Ask the Seller Detailed Questions

Most sellers welcome questions, so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification about any unclear details. Verify that electrical components like screens, heart rate monitors, and other consoles are working. Ask if key components, like belts or resistance bands, have been replaced, as these often show wear.

For larger items like treadmills, rowers, or stair climbers, ask if maintenance records are available. Sellers who provide these records often keep the equipment in good condition, which could mean fewer maintenance headaches down the road.

6. Review Warranty and Return Policies

Some auctioned items may still be covered under a manufacturer’s warranty, especially if they’re newer models. This can be a huge benefit, as it means you might be eligible for replacement parts or repairs if issues arise.

Many auctions operate on a “final sale” basis, so it’s wise to double-check the return policy. Some allow returns within a limited period, while others don’t offer returns at all. Make sure the terms work for you before you commit to a bid.

7. Account for Shipping and Handling Costs

Gym equipment can be heavy and costly to ship, so it’s essential to factor in shipping expenses when budgeting. Some auction platforms calculate shipping based on your location, while others may require you to arrange pickup or freight delivery.

Consider the cost and logistics of delivery and setup, especially for bulkier items like power racks or treadmills. If the equipment is too heavy to handle alone, you may need to hire a professional to help with setup, so factor that into your total budget.

Conclusion

Buying from gym liquidation sales is a savvy way to save on high-quality fitness gear, but it requires a careful inspection process. By researching each item’s market value, studying product photos, reading descriptions, and asking the right questions, you can make smart, budget-friendly purchases. Ensure you’re aware of shipping and handling costs, prioritize reputable brands, and check warranty details when possible. With these strategies in mind, you’ll be set to bid confidently and make the most of your auction purchases.

[fitnessgym4]

Comprehensive Guide to Gym Equipment Suppliers in Dubai: Your One-Stop Solution for Fitness Equipment

Dubai's fitness market has experienced rapid growth in recent times with an increasing number of gyms, fitness centers and personal fitness studios in the emirate. For fitness and business fans looking for top quality gym equipment, finding the perfect supplier is essential. This comprehensive guide explores all you need to be aware of gym equipment companies in Dubai.

Why Dubai is a Hub for Gym Equipment

Dubai's strategic location, its robust infrastructure, and status as a global business hub make it an ideal destination with regard to gym equipment manufacturers. The city serves not only the UAE market but also serves as a distribution center for the whole Middle East region. With its free trade zones as well as business-friendly policies Dubai is home to top local and international distributors, too.

Types of Gym Equipment Suppliers in Dubai

Full-Service Providers

Offer complete gym setup and set-up services

Provide advice, installation, and maintenance

Stock both residential and commercial equipment

Handle custom orders and bulk purchases

Specialized Suppliers

Focus on specific equipment categories

Provide professional advice on particular fitness areas

Offer specialized maintenance services Premium brands in stock specifically designed for specific workouts

Online Retailers

Make shopping easy

Give detailed specifications for the product.

Feature competitive pricing

Offer door-to-door delivery services Popular Equipment Categories Dubai's gym equipment sellers typically stock:

Cardio Equipment

Treadmills Elliptical trainers

Exercise bikes

Rowing machines

Stair climbers

Strength Training Equipment

Free weights

Weight machines

Power racks Smith machines Smith machines

Cable machines

Functional Training Equipment

Kettlebells Resistance bands

Medicine balls

Battle ropes

TRX systems

Recovery Equipment

Massage tools

Foam rollers

Compression devices

Stretching equipment Choosing the Right Supplier When selecting for a gym equipment supplier for Dubai be sure to consider:

Reputation and Experience

- Years of business Reviews and testimonials from customers Industry certifications

Brand partnerships

Product Quality

Equipment durability

Brand reputation

Terms of warranty Safety certifications

After-Sales Service

Maintenance software

Parts available for spare Technical Support

Response time

Price Competitiveness

Market-competitive pricing • Bulk purchase discounts

Payment terms Options for financing Leading Brands Available Dubai's suppliers typically stock internationally renowned brands like:

Life Fitness

Technogym

Matrix

Precor

Hammer Strength

Cybex

Nautilus

Star Trac Value-Added Services The top gym equipment suppliers in Dubai often provide:

Consultation Services

Gym layout and design

Equipment selection guidance

Budget optimization • Design recommendations

Installation and Setup Professional installation

Safety testing Staff training

Calibration of equipment

Maintenance Programs Regular maintenance checks

Emergency repairs

Maintenance that is preventive

Equipment upgrades

Financial Solutions Leasing options

Payment plans

Trade-in programs

Equipment buyback Location Advantages Dubai's gym equipment suppliers are strategically located in:

Al Quoz Industrial Area

Dubai Investment Park

Jebel Ali Free Zone

Dubai Silicon Oasis

Business Bay These locations provide:

Easy access

Showroom facilities

Warehouse space Service centers Import and Distribution Dubai's suppliers benefit from:

Strategic port location

Efficient customs procedures

Strong logistics infrastructure Warehousing facilities This guarantees:

Rapid delivery times

Competitive pricing

Regular stock availability

Efficient distribution Market Trends Current market trends for Dubai's gym equipment market include:

Technology Integration

Smart equipment Connected fitness solutions for the gym.

Virtual training capabilities

Fitness tracking integration

Sustainable Equipment

Energy-efficient machines

Environmentally friendly materials

Sustainable packaging

Green certification

Customization Options

Branded equipment

Custom colors Special Features

Individualized solutions Customer Support Quality suppliers provide:

Support for technical issues 24 hours a day

- Multiple channels of communication Dedicated account managers Regular follow-ups Investment Considerations When you are buying gym equipment for your gym in Dubai Take into account:

Initial investment

Maintenance costs

Operating expenses Return on investment Tips for Buyers

Research thoroughly Check out multiple suppliers

Verify references Visit showrooms

Test equipment

Verify the authenticity of your credentials

Business licenses Brand authorizations Safety certifications

Insurance coverage

Prepare for the future

Scalability options

Upgrade possibilities

Maintenance for the long-term

Technology adaptation

Conclusion

Dubai's gym equipment suppliers provide the most comprehensive fitness solutions for businesses and individuals. With their extensive product range professional services, as well as strategic advantages, they provide everything you need to start and maintain a successful fitness center. When selecting the right supplier look at factors such as reliability, product quality, after-sales service, and other value-added services to make an informed decision. It doesn't matter if you're establishing an entirely new gym, upgrading existing equipment or looking for specific fitness solutions, Dubai's gym equipment suppliers can satisfy the needs of your business with their expertise as well as high-quality equipment and expert service. The most important thing is to choose a supplier that is compatible with your requirements and provides ongoing support to help you succeed in your fitness business.

[thetadispatcher]

"Alright, sounds good." He nodded then glanced at Rook for moment before he entered the dive room, he felt there wasn't much he could say to make going into the abyss any better as he knew it would all just be lies. And lying about how horrible it was definitely wouldn't be of any help.

He swiped his Omnitool, watching the door shut behind him before the room started to fill with water. once the door opened he made his way out onto a walkway from the left of the door, knowing the platform directly in front of him was of no importance.

He reached the ACR and climbed down into it, using his tool to get it ready for the trip and silently hoping the machine would still work. He took a seat in the chair that opened up after he set the passenger number, letting the harness lock him in as it began it's decent into the abyss.

Strasky sat silently as he watched the screen displaying what zone it was passing through with accompanying facts and what the depth was. Sure it was exciting to finally use the ACR, but this hadn't been the way he wanted it to happen, and especially with his limited knowledge of what the WAU had done to the deep sea creature.

He jumped at the loud bang as the power to the ACR shut off, getting up the moment the harness released and climbing up the ladder to open a panel, resetting the power. He sighed as the power came back on. Once he was sure it wouldn't shut back off he climbed back down and took his seat, the ACR resuming it's decent once the harness was back in place.

It was quiet for a few more moments, until he noticed his vision distorting and the power flickering. He knew it wasn't the power failing as it wouldn't be causing his vision to malfunction, but he couldn't see the WAU created monster that was causing the issue yet. But once he spotted it, he really wished he hadn't. He pressed himself as flat as he could to his seat as he watched Ross climb into the ACR with him. "You did it. You did it! I will make preparations." Ross said, not caring how Strasky flinched and was desperately trying to get away from him as he suddenly got in his face. Instead Ross chose to knock Strasky unconscious before he left the ACR.

Eventually he regained consciousness as the ACR was beginning it's approach to the ocean floor. He did a quick scan of the area to make sure Ross was nowhere in sight as the ACR docked and the harnesses released. "Asshole..." He mumbled as he took his tool from the dock and left the ACR. As he left the ACR he took note of the poor visibility before heading down the stairs. He looked around at the abundance of glowing structure gel growths, pausing to look at a map that warned the area was dangerous and to stick close to the lights. He decided to do a quick sweep of the surrounding buildings for anything useful before heading to Tau, finding that one of the weather related devices was warning of strong torrents which would probably limit visibility more.

After he was done with his sweep as it had only turned up one suit that was in far too many pieces to use and turning the lights on for the area. Then he returned to the task of getting to Tau by turning on the lights he was advised to follow and noting the sign stated to follow to the blue to get to the site and that red would lead to climber as he'd need the information once he found two more power suits.

As he followed the lights, he got his first look at the Leviathan he'd heard rumors about, good to know it was real and that the lights seemed to deter it from attacking. But he still quickly ducked into a nearby building as the torrents picked up, which to him just basically seemed to mean underwater wind. It was just a observation station with some pictures of the WAU's mutated creatures on the wall and information about them, so he left and went back to following the lights.

He managed to make it to a power station, doing his best to explore anything remotely interesting along the way well avoiding a very aggressive school of mutated fish that seemed hellbent on attacking him which they succeed in doing a few times. The lights stopped at the power station and he saw no way to get the power restored to hopefully get them back on, so he went to look for another solution. He found it in the form of a robot setting in the garage area, he selected to send it to Tau so he could follow it and the lights on the machine could keep the mutated fish at bay.

He relaxed a bit as some yellow glowing markers came into view, but was quickly back on edge as the Leviathan snatched the robot which had it get far too close to him for comfort. Strasky hurried alone the trail the markers were making till he went into an underwater tunnel, choosing to ignore the fact it seemed to be over run with creatures that looked like spiders, still following the yellow lights. He eventually made his way out and back into the underwater storm, happy to see that the path lights were back, ignoring the fact he'd soon have to make the journey back carrying heavy equipment.

Soon he finally made it to Tau and quickly hurried inside and gathered together two more suits, checking them to make sure they were in good working order and getting the batteries in place along with the air tanks, before he made his way back to the ACR and into the range of the last semi functional LUMAR relay in the abyss. He got the suits situated in the ACR and the passenger number preset for them then used his tool to beep the other one as he knew he wouldn't be able to actually speak with them, the LUMAR relay was too unstable to allow for much more then the sound the Omnitools would admit when one connected to the other to allow the two users to speak. Strasky hoped they hadn't become too worried about him as it had taken him a good long while to complete his task, long enough one might've believed he'd died or gotten hopelessly lost.

He managed to crawl out of the ACR and collapse onto the docking platform, looking up at the sky as his body forced him to take a break. He had decided not to make the trip back up as he'd given them the information necessary to properly put the suits on and use the ACR. So he decided to use the time alone to lay on the ground quietly and get a few minutes of much needed rest so he would be ready to make the trek back to Tau.

"Sounds good to me." He wasn't particularly interested in the workings of the pilot seat, but he wasn't about to stop Strasky.

At least the repair bay was full of interesting blueprints he was going snatch, as he was sure no one there was going to mind. Waldeck was picked up on the way out, as there was no reason to abandon him there either. One more for the research program.

Ironically, Bishop initially planned to volunteer to doing the cleaning, but Strasky clearly seemed up to the task and with a very clear plan in mind. So he stood by and watched.

"I can only imagine." he replied. Stockman rocked the headless look far better.

He listened to the instructions. That seemed simple enough. "Very well. We'll be ready."

If he could get Rook to stop cowering in the corner.

[joeygoldy]

Fitness Is Not About Getting Skinny

Fitness encompasses a broad range of physical and mental well-being, not just weight loss or being skinny. From personal fitness goals to simply staying fit, many people these days are keen on fitness and good health, and move towards these goals either through a reputed gym membership or by purchasing equipment like a cross trainer in Sri Lanka or home gym in Sri Lanka, for their use.

Here is a more detailed look at what fitness means and why it is about more than just losing weight:

Definition of Fitness

Physical Fitness: This refers to the ability to perform daily activities with vigour and without undue fatigue. It includes components such as:

Cardiovascular Endurance: The heart and lungs’ ability to supply oxygen during sustained physical activity.

Muscular Strength: The amount of force a muscle can produce.

Muscular Endurance: The ability of a muscle to sustain repeated contractions over time.

Flexibility: The range of motion available at a joint.

Body Composition: The proportion of fat and non-fat mass in the body.

Mental and Emotional Fitness: This aspect involves maintaining a positive mental state, managing stress, and having good emotional health. It contributes to overall well-being and can enhance physical fitness.

Why Fitness is Not Just About Being Skinny

Health Over Appearance: Fitness focuses on overall health, which includes maintaining a healthy heart, good muscle strength, and flexibility. Being skinny does not always correlate with good health; some people can be thin but still have health issues.

Muscle vs. Fat: Muscle weighs more than fat, so someone may have a higher weight due to muscle mass but be much healthier and more fit than someone who is skinny but has a high body fat percentage.

Functional Strength: Fitness involves being able to perform physical tasks effectively and efficiently. This can include lifting, running, climbing, and more. Someone can be strong and capable without being skinny.

Mental Well-being: Fitness also includes mental health, which can be improved through physical activity. Regular exercise can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, enhance mood, and improve overall quality of life.

Individual Goals: Fitness is personal and varies for everyone. Some may aim for weight loss, while others may focus on building strength, improving endurance, or enhancing flexibility. The ultimate goal should be to feel good and be healthy.

Fitness is a holistic concept that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. It is not solely about losing weight or being skinny but about improving quality of life, enhancing functional abilities, and promoting overall well-being.

Different types of fitness equipment you can use

There are various types of fitness equipment designed to target different aspects of physical fitness. Here is a breakdown of some common types of fitness equipment you can use:

Cardiovascular Equipment:

Treadmills: Great for walking, jogging, or running indoors.

Elliptical Machines: Low-impact alternative to running, works both upper and lower body.

Stationary Bikes: Ideal for cycling workouts, available in upright and recumbent styles.

Rowing Machines: Full-body workout that mimics rowing, great for cardiovascular and strength training.

Stair Climbers: Targets the legs and provides a good cardiovascular workout.

Strength Training Equipment:

Dumbbells: Versatile weights for various exercises targeting different muscle groups. Dumbbell price in Sri Lanka varies according to brand and the weight, and it is best to check with your trainer what weight is ideal for you before buying them.

Barbells: Long bars for heavier lifting, often used for squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. Together with these you will also need to purchase a weight lifting bench in Sri Lanka, which provides proper support and comfort when lifting.

Resistance Bands: Lightweight and portable bands that provide resistance for strength training.

Kettlebells: Weights with a handle that can be used for swings, squats, and other functional movements.

Weight Machines: Target specific muscle groups, often found in gyms.

Functional Training Equipment:

Medicine Balls: Weighted balls used for a variety of strength and conditioning exercises.

Bosu Balls: Half a stability ball that can be used for balance training and core exercises.

Stability Balls: Large inflatable balls that help improve core strength and balance.

Foam Rollers: Used for self-myofascial release to reduce muscle soreness and improve flexibility.

Flexibility and Recovery Equipment:

Yoga Mats: Essential for yoga and stretching exercises.

Stretching Straps: Help facilitate deeper stretching for increased flexibility.

Foam Rollers: Used for self-massage and recovery.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Equipment

Battle Ropes: Heavy ropes used for high-intensity interval training that engages multiple muscle groups.

Plyometric Boxes: Platforms for jumping exercises to improve strength and explosiveness.

Jump Ropes: Excellent for cardiovascular conditioning and coordination.

Miscellaneous Equipment:

Pilates Reformers: Machines used for Pilates workouts that enhance strength and flexibility.

Suspension Trainers: Use body weight for resistance, allowing for a variety of exercises.

Agility Ladders: Used for speed and agility drills, often in sports training.

The choice of fitness equipment depends on your fitness goals, preferences, and available space. Incorporating a variety of equipment can help create a balanced workout routine that targets different aspects of fitness, including strength, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and functional movement.

How to choose the right equipment to suit your fitness goals

Choosing the right fitness equipment for your journey involves several considerations to ensure that it aligns with your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. Here is a guide to help you make the right choices:

Identify Your Fitness Goals

Weight Loss: If your goal is to lose weight, consider equipment that promotes cardiovascular activity (like treadmills, stationary bikes, or elliptical machines) along with some strength training tools (like dumbbells or resistance bands).

Muscle Building: For building muscle, focus on strength training equipment such as free weights (dumbbells, barbells), weight machines, and kettlebells.

Improving Flexibility: Look for equipment that supports stretching and flexibility, like yoga mats and stability balls.

Endurance Training: If you are training for endurance events, consider equipment that enhances cardiovascular fitness, such as rowing machines or jump ropes.

Assess Your Space

Home vs. Gym: If you are working out at home, consider the available space. Smaller equipment like resistance bands or dumbbells can fit easily in limited spaces.

Storage: Think about how much space you have for storage. Some equipment is foldable or can be easily stored away (like a jump rope or resistance bands), while larger machines (like treadmills) require more space.

Evaluate Your Budget

Cost of Equipment: Determine how much you are willing to spend. While some basic equipment (like resistance bands or a yoga mat) is affordable, machines (like treadmills or rowers) can be more expensive.

Long-Term Investment: Consider the longevity and durability of the equipment. Sometimes spending a bit more on quality equipment is worth it for long-term use.

Consider Your Fitness Level

Beginner: If you are new to fitness, start with basic equipment that is easy to use and understand, such as dumbbells, resistance bands, or a stability ball.

Advanced: If you are more experienced, you might look for specialised equipment that allows for varied workouts and challenges (like kettlebells, advanced weight machines, or a plyometric box).

Think About Variety and Enjoyment

Mix It Up: Choose equipment that allows for a variety of exercises to keep your workouts interesting. This could include a combination of cardio and strength training equipment.

Personal Preference: Select equipment you enjoy using. If you dislike running on a treadmill, consider alternatives like cycling or rowing.

Research and Read Reviews

Product Reviews: Before making a purchase, read reviews and watch videos about the equipment. This will help you understand its effectiveness and ease of use.

Trial Periods: If possible, try out equipment at a gym or store before buying. Many stores also offer return policies if the equipment does not meet your needs.

Consult Professionals

Fitness Trainers: If you are unsure where to start, consider consulting a fitness trainer who can recommend equipment based on your goals and provide guidance on proper use.

Physical Therapists: If you have any pre-existing conditions or injuries, consult a physical therapist to recommend suitable equipment that won’t aggravate your condition.

Choosing the right fitness equipment is a personal journey that depends on your individual goals, preferences, and circumstances. By assessing your needs and considering factors such as space, budget, and fitness level, you can make informed choices that will enhance your fitness journey and keep you motivated along the way.

[susantaylor01]

Reduce Lower Back Fat?

Accumulation of fat in the lower back area can be influenced by various factors, each of which plays a role in how and where fat is stored on the body. Here’s a detailed look into the mechanisms and factors contributing to lower back fat accumulation:

1. Body Fat Distribution and Storage

Genetics:

Genetics largely determines where fat is stored in the body. Some people are genetically predisposed to store fat in the lower back and other specific areas. 

Hormonal Influences:

Hormones such as cortisol, insulin, and sex hormones (oestrogen and testosterone) impact fat distribution. For instance, high levels of cortisol, often associated with chronic stress, can lead to increased fat storage in the abdominal and lower back regions. 

Metabolism:

Your metabolic rate affects how efficiently your body burns calories. A slower metabolism can contribute to fat accumulation if calorie intake exceeds expenditure.

2. Lifestyle Factors

Diet:

A diet high in calories, particularly from sugars and unhealthy fats, can lead to weight gain and fat accumulation. Excess calories are stored as fat, and this can contribute to lower back fat if the overall body fat increases.

Physical Activity:

Inadequate physical activity can result in weight gain and fat accumulation. Regular exercise, especially combining cardio and strength training, helps manage weight and improve muscle tone.

Sleep:

Poor sleep quality or insufficient sleep can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to increased appetite and fat accumulation. Hormones like ghrelin and leptin, which regulate hunger, can be affected by inadequate sleep.

3. Specific Considerations for Lower Back Fat

Fat Type:

There are two main types of body fat: subcutaneous and visceral. Subcutaneous fat is stored under the skin and can accumulate in areas like the lower back. Visceral fat is stored around internal organs and can also contribute to overall fat in the body, impacting how fat is distributed.

Postural Impact:

Poor posture can sometimes exacerbate the appearance of lower back fat. Slouching or improper sitting positions can make the lower back area appear more prominent.

Strategies to reduce lower back fat ?

Reducing lower back fat requires a multifaceted approach that includes targeted exercises, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments. Here’s a detailed guide to help you tackle lower back fat effectively:

1. Exercise Strategies

Cardiovascular Exercise:

Objective: Burn calories and reduce overall body fat, including in the lower back.

Types: Running, cycling, swimming, rowing, brisk walking, or using cardio machines like the elliptical or stair climber.

Frequency: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity cardio per week. You can also break this down into shorter sessions (e.g., 30 minutes five times a week).

Strength Training:

Objective: Build muscle mass to boost metabolism and support fat loss.

 Exercises:

 Deadlifts: Target the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings. Use proper form to avoid injury.

Bent-Over Rows: Work the upper and lower back muscles. Use dumbbells or a barbell.

Lat Pulldowns: Focus on the latissimus dorsi muscles and overall back.

Back Extensions: Strengthen the lower back. Perform on a Roman chair or stability ball.

Single-Arm Dumbbell Rows: Help isolate and strengthen the back muscles.

Frequency: Incorporate strength training exercises 2-3 times a week. Allow at least one rest day between sessions targeting the same muscle groups.

Core Strengthening:

Objective: Enhance core stability and strength, which supports the lower back.

Exercises:

Planks: Hold a plank position to engage the entire core. Start with 30 seconds and gradually increase.

Side Planks: Focus on the oblique muscles. Hold each side for 20-30 seconds.

Russian Twists: Sit on the floor with knees bent, twist your torso side to side. Use a weight for added resistance.

Bird-Dog: On hands and knees, extend one arm and the opposite leg simultaneously, then switch sides.

Frequency: Perform core exercises 2-3 times a week as part of your strength training routine.

Flexibility and Mobility:

Objective: Improve flexibility to reduce muscle tightness and enhance overall movement.

Exercises:

Child’s Pose: A yoga pose that stretches the lower back.

Cat-Cow Stretch: Alternates between arching and rounding the back to improve flexibility.

Hamstring Stretches: Stretch the hamstrings to relieve lower back tension.

Frequency: Include stretching and flexibility exercises in your routine at least 2-3 times a week or after workouts.

2. Dietary Adjustments

Balanced Nutrition:

Lean Proteins: Sources like chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, and legumes support muscle growth and repair.

Whole Grains: Opt for quinoa, brown rice, oats, and whole-grain bread for sustained energy and fibre.

Healthy Fats: Include avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil to support overall health and fat metabolism.

Fruits and Vegetables: Aim for a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables to ensure a broad range of vitamins, minerals, and fibre.

Portion Control:

Objective: Manage calorie intake to prevent overeating and support weight loss.

Tips: Use smaller plates, be mindful of portion sizes, and avoid eating large meals late at night.

Ancient “Mountain Tea” activates 24/7 fat-burning

Hydration:

Objective: Maintain proper hydration for overall health and metabolic processes.

Tips: Drink at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water daily. Increase intake if you’re active or live in a hot climate.

Limit Processed Foods:

Objective: Reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat processed foods that contribute to fat gain.

Tips: Avoid sugary beverages, snack foods, and heavily processed meals. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.