Bridging Virtual and Physical Sports

Sports video games such as FIFA, NBA 2K, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater are gaining recognition for their educational value, particularly in helping young players understand the intricacies of different sports. The survey, conducted by nimbl with 410 parents across the UK, revealed that 41% of children have developed a better understanding of sports rules and strategies through gaming. Additionally, 37% of parents noted improvements in cognitive skills such as problem-solving and teamwork, while 42% observed enhanced fine motor skills, including reaction times, hand-eye coordination, and anticipation.

Sandy from Epsom shared how her 12-year-old daughter Lilly, who plays football for her school and local clubs, has benefited from gaming. “Gaming has given her a better understanding of the rules, strategy, and skills she can develop. It’s been great socially, as she can play with family and friends, learning about teamwork and cooperation.”

Inspiring Participation and Passion

Beyond skill development, video games are also inspiring curiosity and passion for sports in children. The immersive nature of these games allows young players to explore new sports, discover new skills, and take risks in a ‘safe space’. According to the nimbl survey, 35% of children were inspired to try new sports after playing video games, with football (27%), basketball (5%), and tennis (3%) among the most popular choices.

Jo from Watford spoke about her 11-year-old son Issac, who has been inspired to try new sports through gaming. “My son enjoys bowling and playing tennis online and offline. Gaming has inspired him to try new sports like golf. After playing a Nintendo golf game, he wanted to go to the driving range and loved it!”

Balancing Gaming and Physical Fitness

While video games are proving to be a valuable tool in developing sporting skills, finding the right balance between gaming and physical activity remains crucial. The survey found that 69% of children game for over four hours a week, with 28% spending more than 10 hours a week on video games. Despite this, 25% of parents reported that motion-based video games have helped improve or maintain their child’s physical fitness, particularly for those with disabilities or those unable to participate in out-of-school activities.

Summer Boredom Buster Promotion

In response to the wet summer weather, with the Met Office estimating up to 50 rainy days, nimbl has launched its Summer Boredom Buster promotion. Running from July to September, the promotion offers families the chance to win an Xbox Series S or a Nintendo Switch OLED Model through weekly and daily prize draws.

Alana Parsons, Chief Executive of Nimbl, commented, “Our survey found that 42% of parents spent over £500 on gaming equipment, with 8% spending over £1,000. With many families feeling the pinch and putting off holidays, our Summer Boredom Buster promotion aims to bring some fun on rainy days! Recognising the educational and inspirational value of video games, we can foster well-rounded athletes and inspire a lifelong passion for sports.”

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The GenAI Revolution

This year has marked a pivotal moment for GenAI, with the introduction of Microsoft Copilot tailored for the SMB market. This innovation underscores the necessity for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and cloud resellers to stay ahead of technological advancements. David Bowen, Global Business Development Director for Microsoft, and Robert Pritchard, founder of The Cyber Security Expert, were among the keynote speakers who highlighted the dual nature of GenAI’s impact.

Security Challenges and Opportunities

Mark Appleton, Chief Customer Officer for ALSO Cloud UK, emphasised the dual-edged sword that GenAI represents. “Generative AI is not only the biggest security challenge but also a crucial growth driver for British MSPs and SMEs. As GenAI tools become more accessible, they lower the entry barrier for cyberattacks, making it easier for malicious actors to deploy sophisticated ransomware,” Appleton stated.

A staggering 87% of organisations see AI as providing a competitive edge. However, the rapid evolution of AI-driven cyber threats necessitates a robust and unified security strategy. The summit provided a platform for discussing best practices and collaborative approaches to bolster cybersecurity efforts.

Key Insights from Industry Leaders

David Bowen’s keynote address highlighted the long-standing partnership between ALSO and Microsoft. “Our 25-year collaboration with ALSO aims to empower organisations through technology. With Copilot, we are enhancing productivity and security, ensuring that AI implementation is both effective and secure,” Bowen said.

He cited the recent Work Trends Index, which found that while 79% of organisations view AI as a business imperative, 60% lack a clear implementation strategy. This gap presents a significant opportunity for the ALSO partner ecosystem to support businesses in developing effective AI strategies.

The Workforce and AI Skills

Bowen also underscored the importance of AI skills in the workforce. “The study revealed that 75% of workers are already using AI, often bringing their own tools, which can pose security risks. It’s crucial for employees to develop AI skills, as 66% of leaders are reluctant to hire staff without them. The ALSO AI Academy is an excellent resource for upskilling employees,” he noted.

Security and Business Expansion

Robert Pritchard highlighted the shift towards cloud-first solutions and the accompanying security challenges. “The traditional ‘on-prem’ model is obsolete. As critical infrastructure relies more on modern technology services, robust legislation and security measures for service providers are imperative,” Pritchard remarked.

Summit Highlights

The summit featured several noteworthy presentations:

• Acronis showcased the escalating threat of AI-enhanced ransomware and the latest AI tools designed to counteract these threats.
• LastPass addressed the crisis of compromised credentials and the need to improve cyber hygiene.
• Vade demonstrated the ease with which GenAI can be used for hacking, underscoring the importance of security awareness.
• CrowdStrike highlighted the positive potential of GenAI tools in enhancing cybersecurity.
• AvePoint discussed the business growth potential of tools like Copilot for MS365.

A Unified Security Strategy

Appleton concluded the event by reflecting on ALSO’s strategic partnerships. “Since our UK launch last year, we have strengthened ties with our security vendor partners. These alliances are essential for providing top-tier cybersecurity solutions. This summit not only celebrates these partnerships but also sets the stage for the future of enterprise security,” he said.

ALSO’s commitment to collaboration ensures that modern businesses receive tailored security solutions, safeguarding their operations and enabling growth in an increasingly digital world. As GenAI continues to evolve, the insights and strategies shared at the ALSO UK Cloud Summit 2024 will be crucial in navigating the complexities of this new era.

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Founded in South Africa in 2010, Irvine Partners has built a robust pan-African network with offices in Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria. In 2020, the agency extended its international reach by establishing a London office, now serving as its headquarters. The decision to set up a German office and a specialised travel and tourism division is seen as a natural progression for the agency.

Rachel Irvine, CEO and founder of Irvine Partners, commented on the expansion: “Germany and the UK are two of the biggest source markets for tourism into Africa. Given our deep understanding of the continent, its cultures, and its people, Irvine Partners is perfectly positioned to showcase the best of African hospitality, lifestyle, and tourism products to these key markets.”

Monika Scheel-Kassai, a communications professional with over a decade of experience in the German media and PR sectors, will lead the Irvine Partners team in Germany. Scheel-Kassai expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, saying, “Driving Irvine Partners’ expansion into Germany is a career highlight and a challenge I can’t wait to take up. Africa is a continent with a rich tapestry of cultures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. I am excited to leverage Irvine Partners’ vast African expertise and creative storytelling to showcase some of the continent’s best hotels, lodges, vineyards, and attractions to the German media and public.”

The new office in Germany has already secured partnerships with several key travel and tourism clients, including the Kruger Gate Hotel, located minutes from South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park. Anton Gillis, CEO of Kruger Gate Hotel, expressed his support: “Irvine Partners has been our longstanding communications partner across Africa and the United Kingdom for many years. It naturally made perfect sense to appoint them as our partner for the German market. As a client, I value having one team that understands my business from the ground up. The economies of scale this offers and the unparalleled reach this team brings to the table are invaluable to a business like mine.”

This expansion into Germany is a joint venture with thepublic, a well-established German communications, influencer, and social media agency. Both Irvine Partners and thepublic are members of PRWA, the global network for independent agencies. Rachel Irvine highlighted the significance of this partnership: “thepublic has been on the ground for more than 19 years and knows the local market inside out. This means we can offer our clients exceptional value and market insight from day one, leveraging thepublic’s established relationships and expertise, combined with Irvine Partners’ Africa-specific specialist insights.”

Christian Josephi, CEO of thepublic, echoed these sentiments: “We are delighted to be going into partnership with Irvine Partners. Our values are aligned, and the potential for Irvine Partners to introduce German clients to the African media landscape is equally compelling. Together, we can create truly unique and impactful campaigns that bridge the gap between Africa and Europe.”

With offices in both the UK and Germany, Irvine Partners is well-positioned to connect African tourism entities with European travellers. The agency’s in-depth understanding of African travel destinations and its proven creative communication expertise will enable it to develop and execute targeted campaigns that resonate with European audiences.

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London’s dominance as the UK’s microbusiness hub is being challenged by rising entrepreneurial activity outside the capital, new data reveals. Stoke-on-Trent South has surged to become the second-highest area for microbusiness density in the UK, while St Albans has made its debut in the top 10.

This information comes from Venture Forward, a comprehensive research initiative by GoDaddy. The study analyses data from over half a million digital microbusinesses across the UK, typically defined as enterprises with 10 or fewer employees. Each area receives a microbusiness density score, reflecting the number of small firms per 100 residents.

Challengers Emerge

Stoke-on-Trent South, after two years of steady growth, now boasts 14.02 microbusinesses per 100 residents, placing it second nationally. The Cities of London and Westminster constituency remains at the top with a density score of 22.48.

St Albans has also entered the ranks, securing third place with a score of 9.28. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first time a constituency outside London has broken into the top 10. Other burgeoning business centres include Bristol West (3.80), Hove (3.60), and Manchester Central (3.50), all featuring in the top 20.

London’s Dominance Waning

Despite London still hosting eight of the top 10 areas for microbusiness density, a broader trend of entrepreneurial growth is evident across the UK. All of the 20 fastest-growing constituencies for microbusiness density are located outside the capital.

Leading this surge is Wentworth and Dearne, which experienced a remarkable 500% growth year-on-year, reaching a score of 1.88 microbusinesses per 100 residents. Other notable areas include Rayleigh and Wickford (+311%), Arfon (+253%), Brecon and Radnorshire (+225%), and Loughborough (+207%), all showcasing significant entrepreneurial development.

Andrew Gradon, head of GoDaddy UK & Ireland, commented on these findings:

“While London has long been considered the centre of business and commerce, our Venture Forward data consistently shows rapid growth in microbusinesses across the UK. Stoke-on-Trent South’s rise to the second-highest ranking for microbusiness density, alongside the ascent of Manchester and Bristol constituencies, highlights this shift.

Microbusinesses play a crucial role in boosting local economies by increasing average wages and employment. It’s encouraging to see such growth and development across various regions.”

Impact on Local Economies

The growth of microbusinesses outside London underscores a significant shift in the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape. These small enterprises are not only diversifying local economies but also fostering economic resilience and innovation in regions previously overshadowed by the capital.

The implications of this trend are profound. By enhancing local economic outcomes, microbusinesses contribute to higher average wage growth and increased employment opportunities, thereby revitalising communities and reducing economic disparities.

As regions like Stoke-on-Trent South and St Albans continue to climb the ranks, the UK’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is becoming more inclusive and geographically diverse. This decentralisation of business activity promises a more balanced and sustainable economic future for the nation.

Conclusion

The latest data from GoDaddy’s Venture Forward initiative highlights a transformative period in the UK’s microbusiness landscape. With regions outside London experiencing unprecedented growth, the entrepreneurial spirit is thriving across the country. This trend not only challenges London’s long-held status as the business epicentre but also signals a more equitable distribution of economic opportunities nationwide.

For more information, visit GoDaddy.

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• New data reveals the character deaths which most shocked House of the Dragon fans, after the most recent episode left viewers reeling 
• Google data from the month of a key character’s death was analysed to identify the biggest spike in UK searches
• The heartbreaking death of young Prince Jaehaerys takes first place, with character searches rocketing 1,816% after his final episode
• The most recent confirmed death (Princess Rhaenys Targaryen) ranked second  

Data shows that the death of Jaehaerys Targaryen was the most shocking for House of the Dragon fans, as Google searches for the character rose by 1,816% on the day his final episode aired. 

The analysis was conducted by tech experts QR Code Generator, who scoured UK Google Trends data from the month leading up to the characters’ final moments, identifying spikes in searches to assess the shock-factor of each death.  

Some fans were expecting the brutal scene, which aired in the first episode of the second series, ‘A Son for a Son’. It took on a different form in the books, but the outcome was the same – a miscommunication led to the murder of the child prince.  

In second, the most recent death in the show has fans grieving. Searches for Rhaenys Targaryen spiked by 1,603% after the last episode, ‘The Red Dragon and the Gold’ and though it played out similarly in the book, it still upset fans. 

Prior to the latest episode, the most shocking death was the joint ending of twins Arryk and Erryk Cargyll, with searches for Arryk rising 500%, and Google searches for his brother up 354%.   

When Ser Criston Cole’s scheme sent Arryk to slay Rhaenyra, the twins were forced to fight one another in an epic confrontation, testing their split allegiances. In defence of his queen, Erryk kills his brother then turns his sword on himself.   

The fifth most shocking death took place in the first season of the show, with  Vaemond Velaryon’s sudden death at the hand of Daemon taking viewers by surprise and causing a 313% rise in searches for the character. 

In sixth, Rhea Royce, Daemon’s first wife, saw a rise in searches of 210% after her death. Though the couple famously did not see eye to eye or live with one another, Daemon’s decision to murder his wife was a shock to many viewers. 

Seventh place goes to one of the saddest deaths of the show, Lucerys Velaryon’s death, which made for a dramatic and shocking season one finale.  

After Vhagar, the biggest dragon in the show, ignores Aemond’s orders, the young prince is killed, leading to an escalation in the conflict. Rhaenyra’s maternal grief devastated fans and prompted a 171% rise in Google searches for the boy. 

Ser Harwin Strong, the legitimate father of three of Rhaenyra’s children, takes eighth place, as searches for him rose by 168% after his final episode aired last season. 

One of the saddest deaths in the show, though less surprising given its long build up, was Viserys Targaryen’s decline. Suffering from a type of leprosy, the King’s illness spanned the first season, with his death prompting a 165% rise in searches. 

In tenth place, another of the show’s tragic deaths saw Laena Velaryon ordering her own dragon to execute her, to free her from an agonising childbirth which would ultimately have killed her. This prompted a 120% rise in Google searches.  

The ten most shocking deaths in House of the Dragon, ranked 

Speaking on the fan reactions to some of the show’s most heartbreaking deaths, CEO of QR Code Generator, Marc Porcar, said: “From the first series of Game of Thrones, the showrunners have been true to the work of George R. R. Martin, if not in plot, in spirit. The death of Ned Stark served to warn fans that they were not watching an ordinary show – no character is safe, and no happy ending is promised. 

 “House of the Dragon is no different despite being a prequel. We may know what happens in the text, or even from previous conversations between characters in Game of Thrones – but nothing is guaranteed. 

 “Though fans are mourning the deaths of some of their favourite characters, they will keep coming back to watch the rest of the series, as the shocking nature of the show is what makes it so special. Predicting any character’s next move is a challenge, which makes each minute of screen time even more exciting.”

For more information, visit QRFY.com.

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The Appeal of Herbal Vapes

Herbal vapes are rapidly gaining popularity in the UK as an alternative to traditional nicotine-based e-cigarettes. These devices heat dried herbs, flowers, or essential oils to produce vapour that not only offers a potentially less harmful way of vaping, but in some cases may also contribute to improved sleep or lower stress.

One of the main attractions of herbal vapes is the absence of nicotine, a highly addictive substance that poses significant health risks. Obviously, for those wishing to quit smoking, nicotine vapes are often the best solution as they allow someone to taper their addiction gradually, but for those who want to vape for other reasons and are looking to avoid nicotine altogether, herbal vapes offer an alternative.

Herbal vapes often contain natural ingredients such as chamomile, lavender, and melatonin, which are known for their relaxing and sleep-promoting properties. These ingredients can offer additional therapeutic benefits, helping users unwind after a stressful day or improve their sleep quality.

The UK Regulatory Landscape

In the UK, herbal vapes can be sold and used legally if they do not contain nicotine or any other controlled substances. However, the industry is still relatively young, and there is limited research on the long-term health effects of herbal vaping.

This lack of scientific evidence surrounding herbal vapes has led to calls for stricter regulations, particularly regarding the quality and safety of these products. The UK government has indicated its intention to review the existing regulations to ensure consumer safety and prevent the sale of potentially harmful products.

A Growing Trend

Herbal vapes are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, particularly among young adults. This trend is driven by a combination of factors, including the desire to avoid nicotine, the appeal of natural ingredients, and the novelty of the product. Several UK-based companies now offer a wide range of herbal vape products, including disposable pens, refillable cartridges, and loose-leaf vaporisers.

Despite many UK outlets showing vaping in a negative light, this uptake in herbal vaping can be viewed as a step in the right direction, as young adults become more aware of the risks surrounding nicotine addiction and are actively looking for healthier alternatives.

While herbal vapes are often marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional e-cigarettes, it is important to do your research first and ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality product. It’s also important to identify what benefits you are looking to gain from using herbal vape and consult your GP if you have any concerns.

The Future of Herbal Vapes

As the herbal vape industry continues to grow, it is crucial to prioritise research to better understand the potential benefits and risks of these products. This information is essential for consumers to make informed decisions about their health and for regulators to develop appropriate policies.

While herbal vapes may offer a less harmful alternative to traditional e-cigarettes, it is important to remember that they may not be entirely risk-free. As with all vaping products, further long-term research is needed to determine their lasting health effects and ensure that consumers have access to safe and high-quality products.

Salman Essap, Founder and CEO of Vape and Go commented on the study:

“The rise of herbal vapes in the UK reflects a growing interest in alternative wellness practices and a desire to move away from nicotine addiction. The proportion of adults in the UK reporting long term vaping increased from 1.3% in October 2013 to 10.0% in October 2023, with a particularly pronounced rise from 2021 – an increase which may signal an increased demand for alternative vaping products.”

“While the long-term health implications still remain unclear, preliminary research suggests potential benefits from certain herbal ingredients and can be viewed as another positive step forward in regard to discovering healthier alternatives to smoking. https://www.vapeandgo.co.uk.”

For more information, visit https://www.vapeandgo.co.uk

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The plethora of contradictory fitness advice online often insists on incorporating specific “must do” exercises, frequently centered around barbell movements like squats, deadlifts, and hip thrusts. But is the efficacy of these exercises universally applicable, or are they simply a one-size-fits-all prescription for fitness success?

The truth lies in the nuances of individual physiology and preferences. While barbell exercises permit the lifting of heavy weights, they demand precise movement patterns. Whether executing upper body exercises like the bench press or overhead press, or lower body exercises like squats and deadlifts, barbell movements engage bilateral actions, where two limbs work in tandem to lift the weight.

However, these barbell-centric approaches may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as limb lengths and past injuries can significantly impact the comfort and effectiveness of these movements, potentially elevating the risk of injury. Individuals with long legs may find barbell squats challenging due to increased range of motion, while muscle imbalances can lead to discomfort or injury during exercises like overhead presses or bench presses.

For those seeking an alternative, dumbbell and kettlebell variations provide a more forgiving option, especially for upper body pressing exercises and single-leg movements. Unlike barbell exercises, these involve unilateral actions, allowing each limb to move independently and accommodating diverse anatomies. Some evidence even suggests that the unique muscle recruitment in unilateral exercises may contribute to greater long-term strength gains.

The ongoing debate within the scientific community about the superiority of bilateral or unilateral exercises reveals that both have their merits. Unilateral exercises enhance balance and strength, while bilateral exercises remain valuable for time-efficient workouts. The latter can be adapted for safety and comfort, such as opting for a trap bar for deadlifts, which places less strain on the lower back and proves beneficial for individuals with back issues or longer legs.

The ultimate goal in weight training is to subject muscles to progressive overload, achieved by lifting increasingly heavier weights, adjusting sets and repetitions, or modifying rest times. This principle applies to any weightlifting exercise, not exclusively to barbell routines. By relinquishing attachment to specific exercises and viewing them as tools, individuals can embrace a more varied and personalized approach to fitness, potentially enhancing enjoyment and long-term adherence.

Furthermore, the argument can be made that any exercise consistently enjoyed is the best form of exercise. The crucial factor in reaping the long-term benefits of physical activity is consistency, irrespective of the specific exercises incorporated into a routine.

It is essential to recognize that weight training offers numerous benefits, from weight loss and muscle building to alleviating symptoms of chronic conditions and reducing the risk of death by 15% from all causes. The key takeaway is that these benefits are attainable through any weight-based exercises, whether or not a barbell is involved.

In a fitness landscape dominated by trends and dogmas, the liberation from barbell-centric thinking opens up a world of possibilities for diversified, individualized, and sustainable exercise routines. As the adage goes, the best exercise is the one you enjoy and consistently commit to – a philosophy that may hold the key to unlocking the true potential of weight training for each individual.

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