FIT CLUB

Our ATHLEISURE LIST features premier fitness gyms and spas with you. We share the methods, offerings, amenities and more. On Oct 17th, we launched ATHLEISURE LIVE which features a fitness method of note that we host a session and select curated goodie bags for our fitness and fashion influencers and media. We kicked off our first one at IMAXShift and took a moment to find out more about this DUMBO gym.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is IMAXShift and what is the meaning behind the name?

BRYAN MARCOVICI: IMAXShift is all about getting away from the repetitive and monotonous workout routine. The name is about getting people to ‘shift’ their expectations about what fitness can be and expect more from their ride. We want people to expect the magic of IMAX, to understand how being fully immersed in a visual experience can change the way they perform, the effort they give, and the enjoyment and results they get back.  It’s about transporting your mind while you transform your body.  
 
BREE BRANKER: IMAXShift is indoor cycling powered by IMAX. We have the great fortune of IMAX branding, giving us their theatre geometry, sound technology, and that big famous screen. Our goal is to use the screen to enhance your workout, immersing you in inspiring footage to help you achieve next-level results.
 
JESSE ALEXANDER: IMAXShift is a visual, physical, emotional, visceral journey that takes you sprinting, jogging and climbing all over the world BEYOND it. Our name comes from the basis of "Shifting" your reality.  Prepare to lose yourself and gain everything.

AM: Who are the creators of IMAXShift and what are their backgrounds?   

BM: Mark Weinberg (COO) and I (CEO) are seasoned managers who look for opportunities to disrupt existing businesses or industries that all seem to follow the same approach.  We partnered with two of the leading indoor cycling instructors in NYC, Jesse and Bree, to ensure that IMAXShift is a performance-driven workout that is as fun as it is effective.
 
AM: In addition to the current location, are their plans to open additional ones?

BM: The first IMAXShift location in DUMBO is a pilot designed to prove out an entirely new approach to fitness.  Early customer response has been extremely positive. If this concept proves successful, our goal would be to expand to several new locations along the east coast such as Boston or DC in the backend of 2017.
 
AM: What amenities are offered?

BM:  In staying true to the IMAX brand, we sought to make the entire experience in our studio a premium one.  We offer Redken products in the locker rooms as well as Detox Dry Shampoo.  More importantly, we’ve partnered with Glam&Go to open a salon within our space that offers express styling services to our riders.
 
AM: Do you sell apparel in your studio?

BM: We have a small, but growing, line of private label apparel designed to showcase our brand and give a shout-out to the amazing DUMBO community around us.
 
AM:  What types of workouts are offered?

BB: We have our signature ride, which is an eclectic blend of scenic footage, digital performance based worlds, and music videos; giving you a variety of high intensity bursts of energy balanced with internal and emotional moments. We have a music video ride which is a mix of fun and current music videos, inspiring more of a let go and have fun vibe in the studio, never leaving out our beloved intervals. 

And lastly we have theme rides, some based in music such as a Beyonce ride, and some based in visuals such as the Around the World in 45 Minutes Ride. We have also done current event themes such as the Olympics Ride showcasing all of the summer events as well as a Suicide Squad ride, featuring footage from the movie and the soundtrack. Last but not least we have strength and recovery workshops in the lobby after certain classes in a series called FLOORPLAY, educating our riders on their bodies and ways they can use the studio space before and after class to enhance their performance and increase their social activity.
 
JA: At IMAXShift we offer our "signature ride" where you will hear all the beats from Hip hop, Pop, remixes, EDM and a throwback or 2 that will make you either shout, smile or flex (I like to flex!). You'll see visuals ranging from racing over the oceans in Hawaii, riding the beat through the Galaxy (note-avoid the asteroids!), or sprinting through our music reactive digital worlds.  Theme rides for the holidays include Disclosure V Diplo, East Coast v West Coast Hip hop (we will be TAKING YOU to those coasts), and of course Beyonce V Jay Z. Not like any theme ride you've taken before.  Come Ride Beyond.  

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag

Trai Turner: Living in the Moment

The regular football season comes down to a little over 3 months - 13 weeks. The preparation, strategy, and focus is intense. For every NFL player, their story, journey and reason for being on the field is as varied as those who play the game. We took a moment to chat with New Orlean's native, 2015's NFC Champion Carolina Panther  (#70) and Pro Bowler, Trai Turner. In his 3rd season in the league, he has been noted by Sports Illustrated (he also nabbed a cover) as one of the NFL's best guards. He's also a man who knows how to live in the moment, stay humble and loves wowing off the field with his sense of style. 

ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you know that you wanted to be a football player? Share your journey of what the past few years have been like? 

TRAI TURNER: I started playing football around 6 and I was like, I just want to do this. In short, I didn't really know how I would get there, but I knew that that was where I was going to go and I was going to do it. Some of my steps included playing football at St Augustine Highschool, which helped me out. I started in 7th grade and continued until 12th grade, excluding the crazy period of time with Hurricane Katrina that came. After the hurricane, I came back and finished up and got a scholarship to Louisiana State University for 3 years and boom here I am! That's what happened.
 
AM: You run a mean 40 yard dash - how did you get so fast?
 
TT: I think I credit that to my mom and dad and just having good genes. Being the big guy that I am (6'3" 310lbs), you don't really expect that I think - especially from an Offensive Guard at least. My parents gave me the gift and I just work hard.

AM: What was it like going to Super Bowl 50 and how did you prepare for that?   

TT: You couldn't prepare yourself, it was one of those things where each time, I was stuck in the moment. So when I was at practice, I was focused on preparing for the Super Bowl. When I was doing media, my mind was focused on talking with the press about the game. When it was time to chill, I was in the mode of chilling before the game. 

When you play, you always think about the moment of being able to play one of the biggest games, but I always stayed focused in my moments and mode. It's ultimately the greatest day of my sport.
 
AM: Your nickname is "The Professor" - how did you get the name and who makes your eyewear?

TT: My GM, Dave Gettleman gave me that nickname. I don't really like to go through a lot of he say, he works for me. It just came about one day (his glasses). I try to  go a little square, because I'm a big guy and I have a pretty big face. I like to go with the square as it offsets everything else. 

As far as brands, I have been wearing Tom Ford frames. What I usually do is I get sunglasses and then get my lenses perscribed to them. Before that, I had some Gucci's - I love adding various frames to my rotation. My favorite frames would have to be from Cartier - I love the elongated square frames that they make.
 
AM: Clearly you're a man who makes statements (which our Style Director, a Statement Stylist can appreciate) - s0 we have to ask about your red carpet appearance at this year's ESPY Awards, who were you wearing and what was the thought process behind the look - you're definitely comfortable in your own skin!

TT:  I appreciate that. I know a lot of people look at big guys in a certain mode. I know I don't fit that mode but I'm just trying to build my own - that's all.

Elba designed the suit. I just told him that I wanted something in green (green is my favorite color). I looked at Kenneth Love's suit which was real casual and that's me, I'm not too over the top with too much going on. I just wanted something simple, nice and clean. The shoes were a special snakeskin print from Gucci. 

AM: Will we see you design your own suits or do a collaboration?

TT: As far as my own line, right now I don't really think about that kind of stuff. My ultimate goal is to be some kind of brand ambassador - I would love to as I don't see many people who look like me doing those kinds of things. I would love to take on that task. 

If I could take on a collab and just share my input as well as have my name on it - that works too. But as far as me having my own name on it, I'd rather to stick to wearing other people's nice clothes.
 
AM: Besides eyewear, do you have other accessories that you like to include in your style? 
 
TT: I like watches - I think everyone has a go to watch. Mine is a simple gold one. I have 2 chains that I like to wear that signifies me - my SuckaFree chains which I wore at the ESPYS. But my glasses - that's my thing. I'm really getting into my frame game now and I'm starting to expand them.

AM: What is your personal style when you're off the field?

TT: I like to put on clothes. I feel when you put on clothes, you look good and you feel good. I started thinking that I have all this stuff, but then it just sits there - so I just put it on. So I try to look snazzy wherever I go - even when I go to work. I shop by pieces and not by the outfit. When I select my outfit, I say "I want to wear this piece today" and I throw on this look and it just looks nice. A lot of people don't see someone of my stature doing those kind of things. It's eye opening because of my size but it also looks good. 
 
AM: What's your day like when you're practicing for the big game and what's the week look like?

TT: Mon we come in to see what happened - what went right and what went wrong. Just to see what happened in the game. Tuesday will be updates. We have practice on Wed through Fri. Sat you come in and put it all together and fine tune it. Sunday is go time and how you put it all together.
 
AM: I'm sure it's less intense, but what are your off-season days like?

TT:  Off is not the same type of intensity, but it is still a pretty good work. I get up early in the morning to workout, take a nap in the afternoon and then kind of go shopping or something!
 
AM: You really liked how accessible Curren$y was to you and how you felt that was important - to be accessible to your fans. How do you do that with your fans?

TT: I'm trying to do a better job through social media. It's kind of tough in my position as I play Right Guard as people are not always looking at me necessarily. People who do look at me and do recognize me, I try to be open and approachable. I feel like I just play football honestly. My job is just broadcasted. Everybody has a job and so do I - I just don't watch you file papers or write articles - you watch me play football.
 
AM: When Cam Newton is celebrating with his Dab, how do you jump in?

TT: I kind of take the background on all of that. That's not really one of my fortes to get involved in the celebration. The reason why I say that is so much stuff be going on because of the rules and I don't want to make any mistakes. 

I'd rather just do my job and once we get to the sidelines - we can cut up. Then when we get to the locker room, we can go all the way to get celebrations going.
 
AM: How do you stay balanced with so many things going on? 
 
TT: I think it goes hand in hand with me putting on clothes. Think about it, you have to work extremely hard to afford nice clothes. I don't care what pricepoint you're at. To afford nice clothes on a daily basis you have to work extremely hard. Then the feeling that you get when you put them on, it just feels good - you look good. All of my energy is there. My vibe and my smile is there. It just brings them together and it makes my day that much sweeter.

More from the Oct Issue here 

TCS NEW YORK MARATHON 2016

We're cheering on all those that are running in today's TCS New York Marathon! If you aren't running or there to cheer on your friend, you can track them here.

ESCAPE TO FITNESS PARADISE; IN THE ART OF YOU LUXURY RETREAT WITH TERRI WALSH

by Joseph Pastrana

The cooler, winter months, hectic with festive and indulgent holiday parties and dinners, make itparticularlyeasytogainweight.  Youcanavoidthisalltoocommonlikelihood,  getintothe best shape of your life, and enjoy a week-long getaway to a tropical paradise at the same time. TheArtofYou –  createdbyacclaimedNewYorkcelebrityfitnesstrainerTerriWalsh – is luxuryfitnessretreatinsun-drenchedCostaRica.  Customdesignedtosuitindividualneeds, Terri takes you on an eight day and seven night journey that explores your strengths, challenges your stamina and ultimately leaves you feeling and looking amazing.

"Idesignedthisretreatasatotalexperiencethatbringstogetherthebestcircumstancesfor achievingincredibleresults," saysTerri. Havingtrainedsomanydifferentpeople through the years, I know how important it is to engage, not just your body but your mind and soul as well. First, removing   you   from   your   natural   environment   and   surrounding   you   with   nature’s breathtakingbeautygivesyouasenseofrenewedpurpose,  tohelpfocusyouremotionsand intent. My assessment of your physical state then allows me to create a program suited to your needs.

Theretreatincludesyourstayandhealthymeals(fresh,  locally-grownfood,  alsocarefully plannedbyTerriwithdueaccommodationofspecificdietaryrequirementsandpreferences - includingglutenfree,  dairyfree,  vegetarian,  veganandpaleo baseddiets),  overallfitness assessment,  dailymeasurementswithimagestovisuallytrackprogress,  customworkout and strength training prescription based on a prior Facetime or Skype consultation with Terri.  

As a base of determining precisely what you need, Terri provides three fundamental categories fromwhichtochoose: Detox&  Push isintensiveandgoal-specificforbrides-to-beorthose with upcoming photo shoots or events in mind; Reset & Renew is for rebooting healthy habits and overall rejuvenation; and Jump Start & Focus is geared toward serious fitness and weightloss.  YourneedswilldeterminehowTerriwilldesignsan appropriateregimen,  usinghervery own ART (Active Resistance Training)® Method  –  a definitive fitness practice that engages the body’s four active resistance points.

TheArtofYouLuxuryFitnessRetreatstartsat$15,000.00 forindividualsto$20,000fora couple(there’sonlyonevilla)  Sunday to Sunday(orcustomdaterangeavailableatadditionalcost)  and requiresbooking30-daysinadvancetoproperlyplaneverything.  TheflightintoJuanSanta MariaInternationalairport   inAlajuela,  CostaRicaisnotincuded, butafterarrival,  the connectingdomesticflighttotheretreatiscoveredandwill bearrangedbyTerri.  Fromthe momentyouarriveataprivatevillainManuelAntonio,  youwillbesweptawayto a meticulouslycraftedblendofstrengthtrainingandconditioningwork- outsamidstabeach,  waterfallor jungle setting,  alternated with endurance adventure hikes, activities, and massage treatments to support energy levels and recovery. After a transformative week, you may never want to leave.

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LIGHTBULB MOMENT: A CONVERSATION WITH STACY LYON

We truly enjoyed chatting with the founder of Healthy HooHoo, Stacy Lyon who is a 20 year ski veteran turned, feminine care brand. As we chatted about parabens, women's bodies, fitness and her gypsy soul - time and time again she continued to echo her sentiment of "you can't pick your lightbulb moment."

ATHLEISURE MAG: Why did you create Healthy HooHoo?

STACY LYON: I always say, it was the perfect storm. One of the main reasons I started a few years ago when my roommate from college called me up and said she had breast cancer. It was one of those conversations where your inner eagle comes out. I had never had a friend who had cancer and so you start asking all of these questions.  You want to know, what did she do that I don't want to do that causes cancer?

So I asked her, "now that you know that you have cancer, what are you doing to change your diet - what are the doctor's saying?" She explained that the doctors found a paraben in her breast tissue biopsy. I had never heard of that word "paraben" before and I felt that I was pretty aware - but it caught me off guard. She explained that it is a preservative that is found in a lot of our products and that they found this toxin in her breast cancer tissue. It lives in fatty tissue like in our breasts and reproductive areas where women carry all these fats.

She joked that she had changed all of her products, except for her feminine wash. I thought, "who still uses that?" That was early in the week and by the middle of the week my triathalete buddy was training with me for the Danskin Triathalon and she complained that she had issues down there and what I had done. I explained that you should let it be and not douche.  But it made me research this. Then that Fri, my gynecologist said she was getting out of the practice and that a lot of peoplewere getting vaginities and vagitosis. She said that 10 - 20 years ago she didn't see this because women now have a high sugar diet, we're over cleansing and we wear tight synthetic fabrics. At the time, she was referring to the tight polyester thong. As the pelvis moves, the thong moves from back to front as you walk and it relocates microscopic bacteria.

I'm here in Bend, Oregon, home of the most fit human beings - and I will be heading to the gym and am already in my active clothes. Everyone runs around with kinseology tape because we're home to some of the best runners and it's all about active leisure. I walk a fine line, because I wear all of this stuff but then I have to also tout the fact that I am here for one thing only - vulva and vaginal health.

AM: We love wearing the gear when we're running errands or hitting our studio fitness centers. Various workouts put you in more contact with bikes and other apparatuses.

SL: You hit it right on the head. I found this because I had a light bulb moment after this strange week of hearing from women. My background comes from spending 20 years in the ski industry. I came up with the idea 7 years ago and we launched 4 years ago. All my ski industry buddies now joke that I used to talk verticals and now I talk vagina! I always joke that I wished it had been something in the wine industry but you can't pick your lightbulb moments.

Parabens actually do their job as they keep bacteria from growing in our products. Many times, the bacteria is worse then the parabens. My semi-business partner who is a retired gynecologist, she figures out that the parabens' fragrance is the worst chemical of them all. We run into problems when we layer this stuff on everyday. So think about your makeup, skincare, hair products etc - it's not just one product that we're using but the culmination of the mass use.

I had never used any wipes before. Years ago,  I did a long backpacking trip in Nepal which meant being out there for weeks without showering. So I thought I would use a feinine wipe and I literally used one and immediately got a rash! I threw them out.

So the wipes were created as I love to travel and have a gypsy soul and needed something for those times. The other products are for the shower obviously. What I like to say is that my gynecologist and partner says that we should all be washing with water, but the vulva has a lot of sweat glands and creates a lot of heat. When you are sweaty, you need to remove the sweat as that is where the bacteria grows.

So if you are working out, you have to do a little more then just water and this is the healthiest option out there.

AM: What is pH and what is the best range?

SL: pH is the alkalenity of the vagina. The big thing here is, I spend much of my day educating people on the difference between the vagina and the vulva.
 
The vagina is all the inside bits. It's a self cleaning oven, we leave it alone and don't need to touch it. It's really similar to the inside of the nose (we wash our faces but not the inside of our noses). You wash your vulva. So it's the vagina's pH that is the whole key to keeping everything happy. If you can keep the pH of the vagina in a certain range - it keeps it at its age appropriate acidic environment.

I say age appropriatebecause it changes. We're very alkaline as little girls and then when our periods start, we drop to a very acid state sometimes as low as 4.2/4.3. That acidity goes up and down everyday based on our thyroids, hormones, stress levels, what we have eaten etc. The pH can change without our massive intervention by messing it up with soap and other things like that. Periods really can kick off the alkaline and some people receive yeast infections at that time because during menses the pH can rise. As she goes into menopause, the acidity starts to climb and she will go from the low 3s to the low 5s. 7 is right down the middle (it goes from 0 - 14). So if you think about it this way, the vagina's acid environment is there as a protective barrier. The bacteria can't multiply in this environment so it is brilliant by design. It's there because the neanderthal gal was getting bread and she was protected by her acid environment. The key is to keep it as acidic as possible and it is affected by dozens of things. We can control it by our diet, exercise, what we wear and how we cleanse ourselves.

AM: Will there be additional products?

SL: These products are the core and I have 3 products that are in development now in the hands of the coolest gal who really loves to work out! She's a Yale graduate and natural product chemist and she is the one that comes up with the formulas. She tests them and then we test them on friends and then perform stability tests, pH tests, paraben tests - and third party laboratory tests. These care products will be out late Spring '17. They are there to help women who have a few more issues. They are not FDA - they're really gentle and mild.

AM: Where is Happy HooHoo sold?

SL: Right now we're expanding within Whole Foods as we're in 5 regions currently. We're not in the NYC region just yet, but from Connecticut all the way to Maine. We have been expanding in the natural world. I love my products being sold in natural homeopathic clinics as it seems to be doing really well there. Since we're there, the doctors will say, we know you're using something more then just water and you can't talk many patients into just using water.

We're weeks away from launching our brand new Shopify website. So we've always been wholesale, pharmacy, etc but this is one of those products that women want to buy from the comfort of their home. We know that we do well on Amazon so we were like, ok if we're doing this well, we need to sell direct.

Anna Kaiser just called me up as she has our bottles in her gym shower. We did a trunk show with her last fall so we included the single wipes within her AKT in Motion Road Show swag bag. She's a big fan and she has that great A list clientele.

AM: Do you guys work with any charities?

SL: I don't have a direct charity but we do a lot of philanthropy. We work with #HappyPeriod, they do menstrual kitsfor homeless teens and women. We donated 20,000 wipes to Togo Africa for their Clitoral Mutalation Clinic. We work with a lot of homeless shelters!

See more from the Oct Issue

ATHLEISURE LIST: PHYSIQUE 57; NYC, HAMPTONS, BEVERLY HILLS, DUBAI + BANGKOK

Physique 57 is a boutique fitness studio that offers group fitness classes with its signature barre method. The first studio opened on East 57th Street in Manhattan with a signature class of 57 minutes, so it seemed like a perfect name.
 
Jennifer Vaughan Maanavi and Tanya Becker are the co-founders of Physique 57.  Jennifer came from a background on Wall Street and Tanya has always been a dancer and fitness instructor.  Physique 57 was born when Jennifer’s favorite studio, The Lotte Berk Method, announced it was closing its doors. Jennifer recruited Tanya, a beloved and leading Lotte Berk instructor and the two joined forces in an effort to reinvent the fitness industry.

Currently, Physique 57 has 8 locations – 4 in New York City, 1 in the Hamptons, 1 in Beverly Hills, and 2 internationally (Bangkok and Dubai).  It plans to continue expanding to various cities internationally.  In the meantime, anyone can access anytime and anywhere via our VOD platform.

All of the NYC studios have separate locker rooms for men and women with showers, towels, shower caps, hair dryers, brushes and all the essential (and not so essential) toiletries one would need to get ready for the day (specifically shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, deodorant, dry shampoo, hairspray, cotton swabs, etc).

Most Physique 57 locations have retail; they sell both branded merchandise as well as fitness and athleisure brands such as MICHI, Alo, and Spiritual Gangster.

All of the workouts are based on the essential principles of Physique 57: using your own bodyweight as resistance to target all the muscles in your body to the point of fatigue then stretch them for relief. The effective process, called Interval Overload, includes muscle-defining arm exercises, intense thigh and seat sequences, waist-chiseling ab moves, and fluid stretches. Each class blends the most effective elements of cardio, strength training, and stretching to sculpt your body and burn fat. Plus, workouts target all areas of the body, from head to toe, and all the small and large muscle groups in between, to get every inch cinched in just 57 minutes. No two classes are ever alike so you’ll never reach that dreaded fitness plateau. Expert and inspiring instructors make sure your form is correct so you're sure to get in the most effective, safe and challenging workout.
 
Special holiday classes and workshops are offered around the holidays. Some of these include a “Sizzle and Soothe” workshop around Thanksgiving and a “Barre Crawl” around St. Patrick’s Day. Plus special Black Friday promotions in both our studio and on VOD are offered to give our clients some extra motivation to stay committed during the festivities.

See more from the Oct Issue.

ATHLEISURE LIST: EAST END; SOUTHAMPTON + NYC

East End Row is a boutique rowing studio founded in Southampton NY.  The Hamptons is a region of Long Island that is colloquially referred to as “The East End,”  known for it’s world class beaches a perfect spot to conceive a fitness class based on a water rower.
 
East End Row was founded by husband and wife team, Liza and Alan Benson. Liza has been a boutique fitness addict since the late 90s. Liza introduced her husband, Alan, to her obsession and they both found rowing to be the most effective total body workout that treated their joints kindly!

Alan and Liza are joined by master instructor Jess Lynn who designed the unique program that focuses on rowing choreographed to music in “waves.”

Southampton’s premier rowing studio, is opening its first NYC location on Manhattan’s Upper East Sidein mid-October. East End Row launched on to the Southampton fitness scene in May of 2016 and quickly became one of the “hottest workouts in the Hamptons” according to the NY Observer and the “It” workout according to Beaches Magazine.

The first Manhattan outpost will be docked on East 74th Street between Lexington and Third Avenues, just three blocks from the 6 train, making it a convenient fitness destination for more than just Upper East Side dwellers.

East End Row’s classes are conducted on The GX Water Rower, a high-end rowing machine outfitted with a water-filled flywheel.

The new studio will maintain the same high standards and amenities to which East End Row’s Southampton clientele has grown accustomed to including complimentary bottled water and fresh towels in a beautifully executed boutique studio setting. Their own high end apparel is also sold.

The East End Row method consists of an instructor led class on low-impact water rowers, incorporating weight-based strength training. This unique format choreographs traditional rowing pyramids to hit music – these “waves,” as they are known at East End Row, promise a heart pumping work-out.

See more from the Oct Issue.

WORK IT

Our fall style shoot took place at Aalto57 located on the UES. We had to find out what sets these units a part from others.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is the meaning behind Aalto57? 

AALTO57: The boutique rental building’s name—Manhattan’s prestigious 57th Street—its elegant design. Inspired by Alvar Aalto’s iconic vase, the tower’s sculptural architecture reflects classic concepts of design both inside and out. The curved silhouette is made from Italian glass and gives the 65-story tower a sculptural silhouette from every vantage point, and of course its location

AM: Tell us about the model unit's interiors

A57: (The 2-bed, 2-bath C line model unit) The unit was decorated by Eduardo Rodriguez, the principal of DSGNR, LLC. A Venezuelan native, Eduardo is a former Fashion Designer turned Interior Designer who has designed for television shows and commercials. His modern design style is minimalist with clean lines, bringing in color through furniture, accessories, paint and fabrics to reflect the owner's lifestyle and individuality.

AM: Tell us about the open floor plans in your units? 

A57: The 169 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences redefine luxury rentals with quality, condo-like finishes and high-end appliances. The spacious, open floorplans are complimented by 9-foot ceilings and curved-glass walls designed to flood the residences with natural sunlight. Residences on the ninth floor have private terraces, while a selection of additional units offer private balconies.

AM: Who are the creators/development team behind this property and when did it open? 

A57: World Wide Group and Rose Associates are the renowned New York real estate developers behind the Skidmore, Owings & Merrill  (SOM)-designed glass tower which opened its doors in August 2016.

AM: What amenities are offered? 

A57: Aalto57 sets itself apart from other rentals, and even many condos, due to the second-to-none elite services are offered at the building. It is one of the few rental buildings that will grant residents with exclusive access to the premier concierge and lifestyle management company Luxury Attaché. Residents will have their own onsite Attaché charged with providing them with customized and unprecedented experiences, such as move-in/out coordination, travel, event planning and gifting, and access to trusted child and pet care services. Additional building amenities include exclusive access to a landscaped terrace designed by Mathews Nielson Landscape Architects with a fire pit on the seventh floor, as well as a fitness center, resident’s lounge, business center and conference room, field house with a basketball court, kids playroom, Bosch washer dryers in every apartment, access to Spot 57 for pet care, bike room with a DIY tune-up station, onsite residential manager and a 24-hour doorman. 

AM: What is behind the design of the lobby? 

A57: An atmosphere of calm, comfort and style envelopes you from the moment you step into the SOM-designed lobby. One of the many stand-out elements in the lobby is a wall that is comprised of five glass panes with a banding of mirrors and frosted glass, which creates an abstract moment. The lobby also features a skylight that offers views straight up to the top of the building. 

AM: What are elements of note in the neighborhood that residents will enjoy from a culinary as well as a fitness perspective? 

A57: Aalto57 is located in Manhattan’s most elite Midtown neighborhood: Sutton Place. The area is a true dining mecca with opulent offerings such as Mr Chow, Betony and Le Cirque. The building is within walking distance to Central Park and the East River, popular fitness options such as Soul Cycle (located directly across the street) and Equinox, worldclass shopping destinations including Barneys New York and Bloomingdale's, and famous cultural institutions like MoMA and The Met. Residents can also enjoy the convenience of having a Whole Foods right next door!

ATHLEISURE LIST: ELEMENT FITNESS

Elements Fitness is a fitness, wellness and life style brand featuring boutique fitness studio locations, corporate and hospitality fitness activations, and on location small group and private training. The brand features a signature class series centered around functional training, barre, dance and hiit training that serves as the foundation for all of the fitness and wellness classes. While pulling together identity and messaging for the brand Andrea Hunsberger was looking for a name that would incorporate all aspects of a healthy, well balanced, rich lifestyle. In addition, the name Elements was also fitting because the idea behind each of the modalities that she teaches pull together all different parts of her training and career. She identifies as a Dancer, a Trainer, a Fit Fashion Lover, and Lifestyle guru, and the term Elements seemed fitting to represent the work that is done with her clients and the message of the brand. From theirBarre, Dance Fusion, HIIT, SUP, and SUP BARRE signature class series to their wellness boutique featuring Barre & SUP inspired Athletic and Athleisure wear, Elements is specific enough to deliver the brand message, and broad enough to cover our diversity.

Elements operates in The Hamptons, Manhattan, and South Florida, featuring our Flagship studio in East Hampton, In home private training & corporate wellness activations in Manhattan, and Pop up locations in Miami.

As the Founder, director, and head trainer at Elements, Andrea started the brand from inception in 2010, as a small private training and fitness consulting group and have grown into a large fitness wellness and life style brand. Having been in the industry for over 15 years she had a very specific vision of what she wanted and where she wanted it to go. She is a professional dancer, trainer, and has taught fitness and dance classes for high profile studios throughout Manhattan prior to starting Elements. She began teaching a survival job in between broadway gigs and then changed to her focus because of Andrea's passion and drive to create a successful meaning full brand and company.
 
Elements Fitness is currently located in East Hampton, and has private training and corporate wellness in Manhattan. Keep an eye out for Elements flagship in Manhattan in the near future, as well as pop up locations in Miami, London, and beyond.  

Elements Features is a three story facility featuring a large group fitness studio, lower level private training room and lounge, and a curated retail & wellness boutique. The studios feature Elements' signature wall mounted custom ballet barre system, sprung dance floor system, high ceilings and beautiful natural light. The retail boutique features a curated collection of luxury lifestyle, active and athleisure wear, an artisan tea collection and organic fragrances.

The elements lifestyle boutique features a curated collection of top brands such as Vimmia, Vie Active Wear, Prism Sport, Sondra Roberts handbags, Koral, Gracied by Grit and more.

Elements Fitness has a custom branded fitness tee that is powered by Phat Buddha, and features other emerging brands for trunk shows and events!

Elements Fitness offers Barre, Dance Fusion, HIIT, and SUP classes and feature a holiday inspired pre and post turkey burn! A HIGH INTENSITY fusion of strengthening and toning exercises perfect to pre burn or post burn before and after all of this delicious holiday meals.

ATHLEISURE LIST: SIN WORKOUTS

SIN, standing for Strength In Numbers, is an industry leading Fitness Concierge service that launched in 2012 in Manhattan Today SIN Workouts is servicing clients in major US cities and abroad assisting in client training scheduling, program design and bookings at boutique fitness studios.
 
Founded by Vanessa Martin, CEO. Vanessa got her start in the NYC fitness scene after graduating from The University of Tampa and moving to New York to begin her career with a Residential Design and Management Firm. During her time as an acting Director for this company, Martin took it upon herself to introduce the concept of the boutique fitness industry that was on the rise to these projects in the residential space. Vanessa began to take multiple classes a day at leading studios and soon understood the phenomenon of boutique fitness. She recognized niche opportunity in this industry on the customer service front and organically grew SIN Workouts to what it is today.

Currently, SIN Workouts does not have a physical location in which clients are trained. SIN partners with existing studios and training facilities to send their members to. These services take place in New York City, The Hamptons, Miami, Boston, Chicago, LA and oversees.
 
SIN Workouts sends clients to an areas most elite fitness studios. At these locations clients have juice bar options for pre and post recovery shakes, name brand toiletries and exceptional upkeep of the clubs. They also have an apparel line. The beauty behind what is offered through their Fitness Concierge services is that each individuals program is customized specifically for them. Since SIN partners with many studios and training facilities, we are able to schedule clients with an incredibly diverse fitness program ranging from Bootcamps, Indoor Cycling, HIIT training, Yoga, etc! As a company, they also host special event classes and workouts throughout the year, known as signature SIN CRAWL that takes place on the West Side Highway Pier in the Fall.

ATHLEISURE BEAUTY

MAI COUTURE

SWEAT COSMETICS

MILK MAKEUP

| MAI COUTURE Blush Papier | SWEAT COSMETICS Skin Balancing Cleansing Wipes | MILK MAKEUP Eye Marker |

See more from the Sept Issue

ATHLEISURE HOUSE NYFW SS/17

Earlier this month, Athleisure Mag presented its first event during NYFW with ATHLEISURE HOUSE, a fitness, fashion and branded showcase event. We showcased: HOM, a mens underwear and activewear line (this show was paired shoes by Sand by Saya as well as Pikolinos), Maaji Swimwear, a vibrant swim line (paired with feather accessories by SoundChick Accessories, gold jewelry from Kemi Designs, shoes by Sand and Saya as well as Yosi Samra), and pool floats by Big Mouth Inc),  and Noli Yoga, a NYC based activewear line (with accessories from Misfit, Apple Watch, Yosi Samra, and Sand by Saya)  which took place in a private luxury residential property, 535 W 43rd St, in Hell's Kitchen.

Our event was supported by a number of partners including: TRULY Spiked Sparkling Water, JUST WATER, Maple Water, Bai, Truth Bars, Macro Bars and Organic Gemini. Guests enjoyed a lifestyle curated bag filled with Nature Republic, Trilogy, Victorinox Swiss Army, The Green Blender - placed in a Quilted Koala market tote.

For the backstage, a number of our food and beverage sponsors were enjoyed by our models and creative team members. Our Official Makeup Sponsor was Eve Pearl which created 3 great looks to showcase the lifestyle of each of the lines that were presented.

To the right, you can find out more about our teams and brands featured within this immersive event during fashion's biggest week.

ATHLEISURE HOUSE CREDITS

| MENSWEAR SHOW Hom | FOOTWEAR Pikolinos, Sand by Saya | ACCESSORIES Sand by Saya |

| SWIM SHOW Maaji Swimwear | FOOTWEAR Yosi Samra, Sand by Saya | GOLD ACCESSORIES Kemi Designs| FEATHER ACCESSORIES SoundChick Accessories | WEARABLE ACCESSORIES Misfit |

| YOGA SHOW Noli Yoga | FOOTWEAR Yosi Samra + Sand by Saya | ACCESSORIES SoundChick Accessories, Quilted Koala | WEARABLE ACCESSORIES Apple Watch, Misfit |

| MAKEUP LEAD Nydia Figueroa | MAKEUP KEY ASSISTANT Kat Osorio | MUA TEAM Angelica Alberti, Agnes Barnet, Sasha Dalger, Lorena Ferreira, Auralis Flores, Jordan Norberto, Hadar Sagi, Aleck Zajac | HAIRSTYLE LEAD Brooke Bogle | HAIRSTYLE TEAM Saidy Cepeda-Criado, Lea DeLoy, Diva LaSha |

| ATHLEISURE HOUSE ASSISTANT Christina Sanchez |

| PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY Paul Farkas |

| MODELS | MSA Callie G, Deandra, Johanna, Julie D, Taylor, Becky B, Jordan | COUTURE MODELS Jessy L, Lauren A | TRUE MODEL Nicholas, Oheni Morris, Christian, Lance| Vicky, Margo, Fazon Gray |

See more from the Sept Issue.

CALIFORNIA STRONG

Earlier this year, we interviewed one half of Team USA'S women's volleyball team member, Kerri Walsh-Jennings. In this month's issue we sat down with Cali girl, April Ross (this duo took Bronze home) to talk about the importance of safe sun, especially as it pertains to eye health and her partnership with Xperio UV, training for Rio, dancing with Kerri, what she's up to off the court and the beauty of being strong and how important that is for women!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is Xperio UV eyewear?

XPERIO UV: Xperio UV is a polarized lens brand that you can get it in your prescription or you can get it in non-prescription. We have a lot of cool colors that you can choose in either solid, gradient or mirror.

The lenses can go in any frames. We have mirror, plum with a silver mirror on top - there are a lot of combinations on top. There are so many colors that allow you to rock your look.

AM: How long has the brand been around?

X UV: The brand is new, but the company itself has been around for over 100 years and is headquartered in France. In terms of this brand, the good thing is that they are polarized lenses, but on top of that they have maximum UV protection as it is on the front and on the back of the lens. A lot of times, you don't think of the fact that the back of the lens has rays coming from the opposite direction which bounces into your eyes. They are also scratch resistant, which we put our sunglasses in our bags without the cases. They are also very easy to clean as well.

AM: So April, you wear the lenses.

APRIL ROSS: Yes, I wear them for protection as she said. Because of the polarization as it makes whatever I am seeing - super clear - especially when I am playing volleyball.

AM: How vital is sun protection for you especially when you're on the court?

AR: The first 2 years that I played, it wasn't really something that I thought about that much! I didn't wear a hat a lot of times I didn't wear sunglasses, and I feel that I kind of paid the price for that I played in some really hot places. Ever since then, I definitely upped my suncare game. I think that I have improved the quality of sunscreen I use and I make sure that I always have zinc oxide (editors note: this is identified as a physical sunscreen that is made of natural elements found on the earth, and are said to “block” or “scatter” UV rays so they don't penetrate the skin in the first place. Zinc Oxide has more broad-spectrum protection and lacks hormone-disrupting effects on my skin). I always wear glasses with UV protected lenses 100% and I always wear a visor all the time. Even when I'm not playing, I'm always wearing sunglasses and a hat - even when I am driving. Sun gets in through the windshield and can damage your skin as the UV rays come in since you are in the sun driving. I feel like I have it down now!

AM: What's the difference between the shades you were for volleyball and the ones that you wear off the court?

AR: The ones on the court are very performance oriented. I sweat a lot so I have to have rubber on the frames so that they don't fall off of my face - it's my number 1 thing besides the lenses being polarized. I think it makes the image so much clearer. Off the court, I'm a huge sunglass fan - it's a huge part of my personality. You can use it to show who you are. I like to do something different and I never buy the same pair!

AM: How many sunglasses do you own - we have a feeling it is going to be a big number!

AR: I don't know the actual number. The sad thing is I go through them quickly. I horde them and then I leave them places. So I'm always needing new pairs of sunglasses and it's a really bad habit of mine. I love them so much - so I find a pair, I buy them and then I lose them!

AM: What are your must haves to wear on the court and then what do you wear when you're going out to brunch with friends?

PHOTO COURTESY WANG/HAOFEI/XINHUA/ALAMY LIVE NEWS

AR: Must haves on the court - I always compete in my Mizuno bikini and then sunglasses, and a hat. I really love the suit we wore at the Olympics with the high cut as I am a huge fan of the high cut bikinis - I like the way it looks and it's full coverage so you don't have to worry about it. Purple is my favorite bikini color to wear. I feel like it is feminine and powerful at the same time. I call it my power color as I love purple. Off the court for brunch and stuff, I'm super casual. I like to be feminine as I feel that as an athlete I'm so aggro all the time. I'm always in performance gear so I like to have frills and lace and flowy stuff. I'm almost always in jean shorts, but I'll have a flowy flower top and sandals.

AM: How did you prepare for Rio and how was it having a different partner as well?

AR: Preparing for Rio was one of the most intense experiences in life. My team with Kerri was all encompassing. We trained really, really hard as our coach Mario Sicoli had a very clear progression for us, and we stepped to that and we trusted him 100%. So everyday at practice was really tough. We had a sports psychologist that we worked with, which I hadn't done before. That was big! We added in a lot of meditation and visualization and had a ton of help with physical therapy. I felt the best that I have ever felt this year because of all of that support. But it was a 24/7 job that you never stopped thinking of it. When we got together 3.5 years ago, it wasn't like that - it was more like, let's see how this goes.

AM: That's what Kerri told us ...

AR: Yeah, we just said, let's just get on the court and do the best that we can and slowly it became more and more detailed. By the end, it was all-day every day on how we could perform the best that we could in Rio.

AM: All of that effort paid off as you guys looked so in sync watching you in Rio!

AR: We felt so in-sync. We felt it, it was crazy! From the first time, that we got on the court, I thought that we played well and had rhythm so the amount that we grew from that point astonished me. By the time we got to Rio, we were in each other's heads and we could flow together - we call it "dancing" and we danced together really well there. Then right after Rio ,we played together in the Long Beach World Series Beach Volleyball.

AM: We saw that and had no idea that your season continued on after the games!

AR: I was like, what are we doing still playing volleyball - but it was so mindless at that point and we just played together so well that we just breezed through that tournament. But yeah, it's super sad to me that it's over as our last tournament ended last weekend and we've played so well and worked so hard to get to this point, like I just want to keep playing. I'm bummed that it's over, but I'm really proud of the point we got to and how we played in Rio.

AM: Now will you guys continue on as partners when the season starts again?

AR: I am gong to try to start a family with my husband. As an Olympic athlete you have to base it on the quad and so if I can have a baby as early as possible in the quad that works the best, I might have to miss next season, but then the plan is to come back and qualify for the next one. If it doesn't happen according to plan, then I would end up playing next year and I'll play with Kerri.

AM: What do you do now that you're off for the season - what do you indulge in and what do you get back into doing?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EUGENE DELUCIE

AR: I travel a lot, which is crazy because I do it a lot for my job as well. Honestly, I book as many trips as I possibly can. It's tempting to stay home, but when I do I get antsy.

Especially if it's not a purpose and I'm not training - I'm like what am I doing here? Any opportunity that comes up I am prone to say yes to. So we're going to visit President Obama this month with the whole team, throwing out the first pitch for the Angels, going to Vegas for a weekend, a trip to Italy and Germany to see friends that I have who are playing over there, I'm going to Mexico with a company called South of the Border Volleyball Vacations where volleyball fans go down and play and they bring in pros to hang out. I'm then going to Montana for a week after that for Thanksgiving and then onto Hawaii with my friend after that. It's super busy, lots of traveling and I like to have fun!

AM: How do you stay balanced and give yourself enough time that you need?

AR: I focus on what feels good to me and I don't know, if it's balanced but for me, it's what works. Like during the season and leading up to Rio the balance was off because I was training so hard and it was all about volleyball and now I feel like the balance will go in the other direction and that I will have too much fun because I am traveling too much. It will be hard for me to get into the gym and stay in shape because I definitely want to stay in shape for sure and eat healthy. When I was leading up to Rio, I didn't feel like hanging out with my friends or doing fun things and it's just understanding that being tired isn't an excuse to shirk on the balance in your life. Now that I am traveling a lot - last night I didn't want to go and workout but you're just tired - it's not like it's a death sentence. Just go and get it done. It's do what you know you should do. If you can be aware of that, it's a good way to keep balance in your life.

AM: What were your workouts like for Rio and what are they like for maintenance?

AR: Leading up to Rio it was very strength-based for explosive-minded speed and agility. It was hours and hours and hours of time spent in the gym every week. And now, I'm shifting to more cardio based. In between cardio - higher reps, lower weights for circuit workouts. You warm up and then do the circuits with lower weight higher reps and I end with running for about 20 minutes or so. I think that's a great balanced workout that's not killer and doesn't deter me from doing it. There are enough variations in the weights to keep it fresh and then I want to get inot pilates as I haven't done it and that's a goal.

AM: We loved your comments in ESPN's Body Issue about strong versus skinny.

AR: I think that being strong is more important then being skinny. If you focus on being strong, you're going to have a fit body type. Mentally, it makes us feel stronger as a person and I think it just makes us feel better.

For me, if I'm not strong, I ache a lot more. My back hurts, my knees hurt and I get tired more easily. The whole package of being strong makes you feel better about yourself and physically. Being skinny is all about deprivation and denying yourself and not living life, to the fullest. You need to be able to indulge when you're eating and enjoy food and then focus on getting in the gym, sweating and getting those endorphins going. It's a much better lifestyle that promotes health as opposed to focusing on skinny. And I think that it (being strong) looks better. I think that looks are the last thing you should worry about, but it makes you feel healthier I think.

AM: How did April Ross and Xperio, come together in this partnership?

AR: For me, it was a no-brainer. I wear sunglasses all the time and their product is one of the best. It goes along with a healthy lifestyle and you have to protect your eyes. They have the best protection and performance wise the quality is very good for vision and clarity. They are launching a new program, All day Coverage when Exposed to Sun (A.C.E.S.) for that awareness. I like that and I like to have a bigger cause than just wearing a product. That was a big thing for me too.

Find out more about A.C.E.S., All day Coverage when Exposed to Sun and how you can support positive eye health.

See more from the Sept Issue.

ATHLEISURE HOUSE NYFW SS17

Today, Athleisure Mag launched its first New York Fashion Week event, ATHLEISURE HOUSE which showcased active fashion, fitness, wellness and lifestyle activities in luxury Manhattan residences in Hell’s Kitchen (535 W 43rd St NY, NY). Invited attendees were treated to three stylish presentations in the property’s bi-level courtyard, lounge, and game room.

Athleisure, lounge and swim brands included: HOM (men’s active/swim), MAAJI Swimwear (women’s Columbian swimwear line), and NOLI YOGA (NYC based yoga line) presented by Athleisure Mag via ATHLEISURE HOUSE NYFW SS/17.

These shows were complimented with accessories from Big Mouth Inc, Dharma Yoga Wheel, Kemi Designs, Melt, Misfit, Pikolinos, Sand by Saya, Quilted Koala, Soundchick Accessories, and Yosi Samra. The shows were styled by Celebrity Stylist and Athleisure Mag’s Style Director, Kimmie Smith. Backstage teams created the edgy and tribal hair and makeup looks led by Lead Makeup Artist Nydia Figueroa of Eve Pearl (Official Cosmetic Sponsor) and Assistant Key
Makeup Artist Kat Osorio, and Lead Hairstylist Brooke Bogle.

Attendees included fashion and fitness industry, athletes, actors, celebrity fitness trainers, Bravolebrities, celebrity publicists, personalities, and influencers. Guests of Athleisure House enjoyed food and beverage sponsored by Truly Spiked Sparkling Water, JUST WATER, Bai, Organic Gemini, Maple Water, MacroBar and Truth Bar. While enjoying a sunny NYFW evening,
attendees listened to Athleisure Mag’s NYFW Slaylist mix which played during and after the show. Goodie bags included items to continue the athleisure lifestyle courtesy of Green Blender, HOM, Nature Republic, Quilted Koala, and Trilogy Products, and Victorinox.

Click here, for ATHLEISURE HOUSE sponsors.

Fashion Stylist: Kimmie Smith
Official Makeup Sponsor by Eve Pearl: Led by Nydia Figueroa
Hair Team: Led by Brooke Bogle
Music by: Athleisure Mag Slaylist & DJ Eloy

FOR THE CLIMBERS #ATHSPO

Sometimes you just have to go out and climb! It's about pushing your limits (whether solo or friends), strategizing how you get to the top)and realizing that by prioritizing the goals - you've reached the top and made a number of decisions in a small period of time. Of course, it's a great muscle enhancer.

Brooklyn Boulders - a wall climbing studio with locations in NY and additional cities

| Trefoil Cropped Tank by Adidas Originals TOPSHOP | Colorblock Neon Shorts TORY SPORT | Workout Gloves PROPS ATHLETICS | Tan Line Minimizing Sport Bra NAKED SPORTS GEAR |

THE ART OF THE SNACK - SMOOTHIE BOWLS

We're sure you follow a number of people who share Smoothie Bowl recipes. This month we share our favorites from Melissa Stadler of Modern Honey, Karissa Bowers of Organic Authority, and Jessica in the Kitchen. 

Courtesu of Melissa Stadler

POWER ACAI SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 1-2

Ingredients:

Berry Version:

1 Acai Superfruit Pack, unsweetened (100 g)
¼ Cup Blueberries
¼ Cup Strawberries
1 Banana (frozen)
2 Tablespoons Chocolate Protein Powder
¼ - ½ cup Apple Juice (can substitute coconut water or chocolate almond milk)
Ice 

Tropical Version:

1 Acai Superfruit Packet, unsweetened
½ Cup Mango
½ Cup Pineapple
½ Banana (frozen)
¼ Cup Coconut Water, Milk, or Apple Juice

Toppings:

Almond Butter
Cacao Nibs or Shaved Dark Chocolate
Unsweetened Coconut Flakes
Blueberries
Strawberries
Mangoes
Pineapple
Granola
Banana
Honey

*You can substitute any frozen berries for acai

Directions:

1. Blend acai, blueberries, strawberries, banana, protein powder and apple juice. If you are using frozen fruit, you will need ½ cup of apple juice, to help the blender break it down. If you are using fresh fruit, ¼ cup of apple juice is needed. Feel free to substitute apple juice with coconut water or chocolate almond milk.

2. Top with your favorite topping: almond butter, chocolate, coconut, blueberries, strawberries, mango, pineapple, banana, homemade granola and drizzle with honey.

Photo courtesy of Organic Authority

SPRING & MINT STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 2

Ingredients:

2 Medjool Dates, pitted
1 Frozen Banana, chopped
¼ Cup fresh Strawberries
¼ Cup Raspberries, frozen or fresh
1 Tablespoon fresh Mint Leaves, minced
1 Cup unsweetened Almond Milk
½ Teaspoon pure Vanilla Extract
Garnish: Sliced fresh Strawberries, Raspberries, and Mint

Directions:

1. Add Dates and Almond Milk to the blender. Blend until Dates are smooth.

2. Add the rest of the ingredients and blend until creamy. Add another tablespoon or two more Almond Milk if needed and blend until desired consistency is reached.

3. Pour into each bowl and add desired garnishes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Photo courtesy of Jessica in the Kitchen

COCONUT & KIWI SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 2

Ingredients:

3 Slices of Pineapple
2 Cups fresh Spinach, washed and stems removed
2 Frozen Bananas
1/3 Cup Orange Juice
1 Tablespoon Chia Seeds

Toppings:

Granola
1 Kiwi, cut in half
Hemp Seeds

Directions:

1. Blend all together in a high power blender (such as a Nutri Bullet).

2. Top with desired amount of toppings.

3. Serve and enjoy!

ATHLEISURE LIST: LUSH SPA

We're all familiar with LUSH, known for their natural skincare and cosmetics that come in naked packaging that also sourcing who put the items together for you, whether you're buying it online or in their fragrant sensory inducing stores.

A few years ago, LUSH SPA on the Upper East Side of Manhattan opened and its continued success has led to the launch of their Philadelphia location as well. LUSH infuses it's concept into a multi-sensory experience of sound, scents, sweet beverages, and more which leaves the body feeling a cleanliness on a level that has never been felt but also a total immersion into another place. 

Although there are a number of offerings that can be selected within their spa packages, it is the curation of their music treatments that are truly the star. Currently, guests can have a spa experience along with the Beatles, in Hard Days Night.

Guests who enjoy the spa are welcomed into a vintage kitchen and then continue into a room where a tartan set of PJs are left that are wrapped around a warm bottle so that you can not only put these on but begin to feel the coziness of the treatment that focuses on preparing your body for a 75 minute slumber. Throughout, you enjoy a series of stretches and pulls which  reduces muscle stress and tension and leave the body in a state of relaxation.

The sounds have been created from a commissioned collection of re-worked Beatles music from Simon Emmerson and Simon Richmond which goes along with the movements of the masseuse. 

Initially, it begins with an auditory montage of sounds from Liverpool that include voices that go into music from the Beatles, but in a way that you have never heard them before. The low lighting is also a way to infuse a sense of letting go during the treatment as the body is able to disconnect from the chaos as a means to reconnect with itself as it is realigned. As you come to the end of the treatment, "Let it Be" which you are encouraged to say during your mantra is said and you are left alone. You can still hear the sounds of a number of melodies. When the rooster crows, you are done and revitalized. 

Walking back into the vintage kitchen, you enjoy a pot of tea and cookies as your body is about to go back to the real world. You're also sent home with a bath bomb so that you can continue your experience within your own home with memories of what you enjoyed during the past 75 minutes. 

Without a doubt, this is an experience that is great for those that are not spa-goers as you can comfortably leave your clothes on (as it is provided), and this is more about muscle work as opposed to putting oils on you. It's a great entry way into this experience.

For spa vets, having this multi-sensory experience is such a treat as your body feels more alive adapting to what is taking place in its direct environment, while succumbing to it in a pleasant way. 

LUSH SPA FACTS

LOCATION: 

783 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10065 

1525 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Check out their locations in Canada and in London

SPA OFFERINGS:

A number of treatments are offered at LUSH SPA, but Athleisure Mag has always been a fan of those that are curated with sound and muscle conditioning. Continue to check in as they are themed, our initial one years ago was Harry Potter themed!

ATHLEISURE LIST: MODELFIT

Former stylist, Vanessa Packer is the Co-Founder of modelFIT, a bespoke workout and nutrition program(she is a holistic nutritionist) which makes it a lifestyle. At it's core, their process emphasizes mindful movement and a balanced diet. This can increase more fitness, increased energy, and balanced moods. These effects are benefits that she feels she has acquired since creating this method.

Clearly, the belief has resonated with its clients which include Taylor Swift, Chrissy Tiegen, Karlie Kloss (as well as a number of notable of Victoria's Secret Angels) who make sure that they are runway, tour, studio, and stage ready. Located in the LES of NYC's Bowery, Vanessa partnered with Celebrity Trainer, Justin Gelband in their 1,500 sq ft space where classes average $40 a session.   

modelFIT provides an effective workout in a space that is beautiful and refined. Signature workouts incorporate a mix of Pilates, Yoga, movement, motion, balance, stability, functional training and more. Instructors incorporate their various backgrounds in yoga, boxing, dance and intrinsic strength training and fuses it with the modelFIT philosophy of mindful exercise. The focus is on slower movement and working smaller muscles, which yields results that lengthen, sculpt, tone and tighten the body.

Guests enjoy a studio space filled with fresh flowers, organic beauty products, plush towels, and the latest magazines to round out their experience. Of course, modelFIT apparel is available for purchase.  It is minimalistic, clean, and modern zen. The space (a former factory circa 1900) sits atop the bustling corner of Rivington and Bowery to have a birds-eye view of the iconic city it sits within. Another service that is offered to members is one-on-one individualized nutrition consulting, in addition to an array of great workouts that are offered at this studio.

MODELFIT FACTS

LOCATION: 212 Bowery NY, NY 10011

STUDIO OFFERINGS: Train like a model is a mantra that is not a part of this gym but is infused within their clientele. Nutrition, zen, and a workout with a focus on smaller and mindful movement is brought together for this method.

THE FASHION GAMES

Read more from the Aug Issue.

MOVEMENT AND SHAPE WITH CUSHNIE ET OCHS

The undisputed "Queens of Body Con," Cushnie Et Ochs know a thing or two about making a statement with their distinctive collections that fit the body to perfection with cut outs, slits, and textural play. Carly Cushnie and Michelle Ochs are more than just darlings of the CFDA, they have continued to showcase their fashion cred as a celebrity favorite on the red carpet with Karlie Kloss, Charlize Theron, Reese Witherspoon, Gwenyth Paltrow, Jada Pinkett and more. They are the go-to for making a sultry and sexy statement, while ensuring a powerful tone. A defining moment of distinction came when First Lady, Michelle Obama wore a custom piece for the White House's Christmas in Washington.

Although they are an American brand, their aesthetic showcases Danish and Italian influences. This summer, the duo presented their SS17 collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. "Inspiration comes, from everywhere, from film to travel to an art exhibition, you can really find inspiration in anything," explains Carly when we asked how they keep the line fresh within their niche focus.

This season's collection focuses on a night out while balancing the duality of movement and shape. As always the design duo compliments their strengths in a way that creates flawless execution when paying homage to the female body. Never understated, they know how to merge their secret formula of edgy, yet classy.

In a word, their brand personifies the heartbreaker, an unapologetic woman who has something to say and wants to be a conversation starter before she has even uttered a sound.

The secret formula of the brand's versatility (as it can be worn from a power meeting, a lunch date, and an epic night out) and coveted nature comes down to its creation. "By design, our garments have a stretch structure and support which is fully lined so there's less of a need for specific under garments," noted Michelle. Looks are created with a balance of hard, soft, tailored and fluidity. Of course, they are all about fabrication details which include viscose, fine ribbed knits, and stretch twill.

The key to success for the team is not just in knowing their niche who continues to flock to them for embellishing their moments on the red carpet; however, the women put themselves into the line as well and continue to look at the ongoing lifestyle of the women who are on-the-go and enjoy going out.

They established this connection with their customer upon this summer's release of their active line where portions of the collections sold out in minutes via their Cushnie Et Ochs X Bandier collaboration.

"Being very active ourselves — and with the female form as the muse that informs our ready-to-wear collection — activewear was a natural progression for us," Carly stated in explaining this portion of the line extension. It is the epitome of being able to wear garments to a number of destinations from the gym, brunch, and out. The ability to do so with ease is an essential to the woman that is constantly on the go.

Although there are a number of designers that are looking to add this type of aesthetic within their collections, this is not a whim for this design set. Carly's workouts include SLT, SoulCycle and fitness artist Nicole Winhoffer's NW Method.

Just as their red carpet looks have enjoyed devotion from celebrities and power women, fitness has also responded with many of the pieces selling out just days after coming to market this summer! The ability to have a chic, edgy, and detailed look that provides the necessary function in the studio, but can also be rocked for life after the gym has resonated with their base.

When asked why it made sense for the ready- to-wear brand to include this within their design, Carly points to seamless integration. "At its core, Cushnie Et Ochs has always been about women's bodies. We wanted to create something for our existing, as well as next customer, that worked seamlessly into her next phase of life. So the natural progression was to create this athleisure line."

The all black capsule collection focuses on core pieces that stylish gym-goers can easily embrace. The edit of 10 pieces includes leggings, crop tops, jackets and tank tops. Of course, their signature of slits on slits and attention to detail is woven throughout the line. Notably, the duo have utilized fabrication that stretches 2 or 4 ways for their red carpet collection however this capsule uses fabrics that stretch 8 ways ensuring that everything stays where it is meant to be regardless of the workout!

"We were inspired to create the activewear version of our little black dresses and to highlight and define the female body through our signature cuts and sculptural lines," explained Carly. Being active herself and due to the nature of their designs, the duo understood that their base wanted to have this option. As always, laser cutting has been a core of the design and with this collaboration, the skin almost becomes another portion of the design element.

"In general wellness has become very important and people should be taking better care of themselves. But when you have great looking activewear, you not only perform better but you can transition from working out to normal life easily!" exclaimed Carly.

The ability to be synced into their customer and to ensure that they have her covered from day to night, as well as when she pops out to maintain her physique, keeps Cushnie Et Ochs connected with who they are as a brand.

As a mantra, "the brand is a for women by women, and we want to always express this female sensuality in our clothes," they proclaimed. Regardless of the season or focus, this is a pivotal pillar in their design ethos.

The only constant is change and the Cushnie Et Ochs team continues to focus on what they do best, while looking at natural expansions that will continue to support their existing customer while also introducing themselves to new fans. They believe that their success has also been established in understanding that with so many options that are available, it is essential to create colections that allow consumers to purchase items that go beyond a season and not to make them so specific. This showcases their true versatility and establishes their ongoing loyalty.

What's next for this duo that continues to get it right by focusing on the details and the intimateconnection with their base? On the horizon for this fall is their much anticipated e-commerce store which is another benchmark from a brand that continues to move forward since they launched in 2008 and were picked up by Bergdorf Goodman in 2009!

Read more from the Aug Issue.