Read the SEP ISSUE #117 of Athleisure Mag and see THE PICK ME UP in mag.
Read the SEP ISSUE #117 of Athleisure Mag and see #TRIBEGOALS in mag.
Portugal is a place that feels lived-in and loved. It’s in the way the morning sun glitters off tiled façades, how the scent of roasting chestnuts drifts through cobbled squares, and the sound of laughter rises from family-run cafés. Its landmarks are not just relics of the past but part of everyday life. Porto’s bridges and Lisbon’s monasteries stand as two of the country’s most striking treasures—different in form, but united in the way they capture Portugal’s soul.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Eugene Zhyvchik
Porto has always leaned into the Douro River. The water winds through the city like a lifeline, reflecting the jumble of terracotta rooftops and colourful houses stacked along the hillside. Stretching across it are the bridges that define the skyline, each one an expression of the city’s spirit.
The Dom Luís I Bridge is the star. Its soaring iron arcs feel both powerful and graceful, linking Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, where the air is sweet with the scent of ageing port wine. At dusk, the view is unforgettable—the water turns to liquid gold, church bells echo softly, and locals pause mid-stroll to watch the city glow. Beneath you, rabelo boats drift lazily by, carrying with them echoes of centuries-old trade.
Other bridges add their own voices to the story: the Maria Pia, a marvel of engineering by Gustave Eiffel, and the bold Arrábida, once a world-record holder for its concrete span. Together, they aren’t just crossings—they are symbols of resilience and creativity, connecting neighbourhoods, histories, and people.
The joy of Porto is how well it links to the rest of the country. A look at a Portugal railway map shows lines branching out like veins, carrying travellers through vineyard-draped valleys and sleepy villages painted white and blue. Taking the train here isn’t just about moving between destinations—it’s about watching Portugal unfold slowly, scene by scene, through your window.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Augusto Lopes
If Porto speaks in iron and river light, Lisbon whispers in stone and shadow. Its monasteries are among the most breathtaking in Europe, filled with artistry and stillness. The Jerónimos Monastery in Belém is perhaps the most famous, its walls carved with ships, ropes, and sea creatures that honour Portugal’s seafaring past. Step into its cloisters and time seems to slow—the play of sunlight across the arches, the hush of footsteps, the faint scent of incense carried on the breeze.
The Monastery of São Vicente de Fora has a different kind of beauty—less showy, more intimate. Inside, walls shimmer with blue-and-white tiles telling biblical stories in intricate detail. Climb to the rooftop, and Lisbon stretches out below: terracotta rooftops tumbling towards the Tagus, with church towers punctuating the skyline. These places invite stillness, offering a pause to reflect in a city otherwise alive with movement.
Travelling between Lisbon and Porto feels effortless. Booking Lisbon to Porto train tickets turns what might seem like a long distance into a smooth and scenic adventure. From your seat, you watch fields dotted with olive groves, towns with red-tiled roofs, and landscapes shifting from rolling hills to coastal plains. The ride is more than a link—it’s a story unfolding across the countryside.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Pedro Correia
In Alfama, the haunting strains of fado spill from tavern doorways late into the night. Trams rattle up steep, winding hills, their yellow carriages glowing against pastel façades. In the markets, the air is filled with the tang of citrus and the chatter of stallholders, while in Belém, queues form for custard tarts so fresh their custard still trembles. Lisbon is luminous—bathed in golden light by day, alive with music and laughter by night.
By contrast, Porto feels more intimate, more grounded. In the Ribeira district, laundry flutters from iron balconies above narrow lanes, and the smell of grilled sardines drifts through the air. Locals gather at riverside cafés, sipping espresso or glasses of tawny port, watching the current roll past. Step into one of Porto’s gilded churches and you’re struck by the glow of gold leaf and candlelight—extravagant, yes, but also deeply human in its devotion. Porto moves at its own pace, rewarding those who linger.
Visiting Lisbon and Porto together is like holding two threads of the same tapestry. Both are distinctly Portuguese, yet their contrasts only make the experience richer.
The journey between them weaves the two stories together, a reminder that Portugal’s landmarks are not just about bricks, arches, and stone—but about people, memory, and everyday life.
To stand on the Dom Luís I Bridge as the river glimmers below, or to walk slowly through the cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery, is to touch a history that is still unfolding.
What stays with you are the small details: the echo of footsteps on cool stone tiles, the sparkle of sunlight on water, the taste of a pastel de nata savoured in a Lisbon square, the warmth of port wine shared on a Porto evening. These are the moments that linger, long after the trip is over.
Portugal reminds you that travel is not only about what you see but about how it makes you feel. Its bridges and monasteries invite you to slow down, to listen, and to connect—with the past, with the place, and with yourself.
Spain is a country where history lives in its streets, where plazas hum with conversation, and where every corner reveals something beautiful. Few places capture this spirit more vividly than Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Madrid’s Retiro Park. One is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and medieval architecture, the other a vast green sanctuary filled with art, fountains, and everyday life. Together, they show two very different sides of Spain—yet they share the same ability to sweep visitors into experiences that linger long after the journey ends.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Ronni Kurtz
Travelling through Spain often inspires journeys further afield. From Barcelona, it’s easy to extend your adventure beyond the country’s borders. The Barcelona to Paris high-speed train connects two iconic cities in just a few hours, offering a seamless way to link Spain’s Gothic charm with the elegance of the French capital. Watching the landscape shift from Catalonia’s coastline to the fields of southern France makes the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
This connectivity is part of what makes travelling in Spain so rewarding—it is not just about the cities themselves but about how easily they open doors to the rest of Europe.
Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic, is a maze that draws you in slowly. Here, stone walls bear the marks of Roman foundations, Gothic spires pierce the sky, and lanterns light up secret plazas at night. Every step feels like walking through history.
The streets reveal surprises at every turn—tiny bakeries where the scent of fresh bread escapes into the air, wine bars tucked into old archways, and squares where street musicians fill the evening with guitar melodies.
Exploring the Gothic Quarter is not about rushing but about wandering. It is a place to lose yourself, to pause for tapas at a shaded café, to notice sunlight slipping across cobblestones. Time here doesn’t feel linear—it feels layered, like the stones beneath your feet.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Amira El Fohail
For many travellers, Barcelona is just the beginning. Spain’s capital, Madrid, offers a completely different rhythm, and experiencing both cities in one trip is essential. Understanding how to get from Barcelona to Madrid helps you appreciate how connected the country really is. The high-speed rail system makes the journey smooth and efficient, transforming what might feel like a long distance into a comfortable adventure. Within a few hours, you travel from medieval alleys to grand boulevards, with countryside vistas flashing past your window.
This journey is not just practical—it is part of the experience, offering a glimpse of Spain’s diverse landscapes before Madrid unfolds before you.
In contrast to Barcelona’s narrow streets, Madrid’s Retiro Park feels vast and open. Once the private grounds of royalty, today it belongs to everyone. Locals jog along its tree-lined avenues, children sail toy boats in the pond, and couples relax under the shade of chestnut trees.
The park is full of treasures. The Crystal Palace, a shimmering glass pavilion, reflects the surrounding greenery and hosts exhibitions that connect history with modern creativity. Sculptures and fountains appear along winding paths, each with its own story. In spring, roses bloom in dazzling colours; in autumn, the leaves turn fiery shades of red and gold. On weekends, the park comes alive with street performers, artists, and musicians, turning it into a living stage for the city. It is where locals gather, where visitors pause, and where the city’s pace slows down just enough for you to savour it.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Ana Dominguez Ruiz
The Royal Palace rises with commanding presence, Plaza Mayor buzzes with centuries of history, and Gran Vía dazzles with theatres and boutiques. Art lovers find inspiration in the Prado Museum, where masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya hang, while the Reina Sofía highlights modern works, including Picasso’s unforgettable Guernica.
Madrid invites exploration, but it also invites you to linger—to sip a coffee in a sunlit square, to sample tapas late into the evening, to let the city’s rhythm pull you in.
Experiencing Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Madrid’s Retiro Park on the same journey is like seeing two sides of the same coin. In Barcelona, history feels intimate and immediate, whispering through alleyways and hidden courtyards. In Madrid, life feels expansive, flowing across grand spaces and leafy boulevards. Both cities embody Spain’s love of art, beauty, and community, yet in ways that feel uniquely their own.
Together, they form a journey that is rich in contrast but unified in spirit—a celebration of Spain’s past and present, its traditions and its joy for life.
Travelling between Barcelona and Madrid is about more than moving from one city to another—it’s about stepping into two distinct experiences that complement each other perfectly. In the Gothic Quarter, you’ll carry the memory of lantern-lit alleys, cathedral spires, and music that drifts long into the night. In Retiro Park, you’ll recall the sunlight on the Crystal Palace, the sound of oars in the boating lake, and the laughter of families enjoying the day.
What makes this adventure special is how it stays with you. The details—the scent of fresh bread in Barcelona, the splash of fountains in Madrid, the landscapes viewed from a train window—become the moments you remember most. Together, these cities remind travellers that Spain is not just a destination, but a feeling: timeless, vibrant, and endlessly alive.
Japan is a country that never ceases to surprise. One moment, you’re walking beneath ancient temple gates surrounded by whispering forests, the next, you’re gazing out from one of the world’s tallest towers as neon lights sparkle below. This seamless blend of old and new is what makes Japan so enchanting, and it comes alive most vividly in two very different landmarks: Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine and Tokyo’s Skytree. Together, they show how the nation embraces tradition while celebrating modernity, offering travellers an experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
Kyoto has long been known as Japan’s cultural heart, and no place embodies this more beautifully than Fushimi Inari Taisha. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of prosperity, the shrine is instantly recognisable for its thousands of bright red torii gates that snake up the mountainside. Each gate, donated over the centuries, represents a prayer for good fortune or gratitude for blessings received.
Stepping into the tunnel of gates feels like entering another realm. The air is cool and still, broken only by the soft rustle of leaves and the sound of your footsteps on the stone path. Morning sunlight filters through the gaps, painting shifting patterns of orange and shadow along the way.
For visitors who want to fully immerse themselves in this spiritual journey, curated tours to Kyoto often include guided walks through Fushimi Inari, sharing stories of the shrine’s deep symbolism and cultural role. It’s more than a sightseeing stop—it’s an invitation to experience a living tradition.
Of course, Fushimi Inari is just one of Kyoto’s treasures. The city brims with temples, gardens, and rituals that bring Japan’s past into the present. Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, gleams in the sunlight, its reflection shimmering across a still pond. Ryoan-ji’s Zen rock garden encourages quiet contemplation, while teahouses tucked into side streets invite you to pause for matcha and sweets.
Kyoto feels slower than other cities, almost as if time itself lingers here. The fragrance of incense wafts from temple courtyards, geisha glide gracefully through lantern-lit alleys, and in spring, cherry blossoms drift down like soft pink snow. It’s no wonder the city is often described as the soul of Japan.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Zhao Yangyang
Tokyo is a city of contrasts. Wander through Asakusa, and you’ll find Senso-ji Temple surrounded by lively stalls selling snacks and souvenirs. Head to Shibuya, and you’re swept into the famous crossing, where hundreds of people move in a perfectly choreographed rush beneath glowing billboards. In quieter corners like Ueno Park, cherry blossoms create a canopy of pink in spring, while Ginza sparkles with boutiques and high-end dining.
Experiencing both Kyoto and Tokyo in a single journey is what makes trips to Japan so rewarding. The high-speed rail whisks travellers seamlessly between the two, turning the journey itself into part of the adventure.
Tokyo Skytree: Touching the Future
Travel east and the atmosphere changes completely. In Tokyo, energy hums through every street, and nothing captures this modern dynamism quite like the Skytree. At 634 metres, it towers above the capital, visible from miles away. By day, it glistens against the sky; by night, it glows with ever-changing lights that reflect the seasons or mark special events.
Inside, the Skytree offers more than just breathtaking views. There’s a sense of awe that comes with standing so high above the city, watching tiny trains snake along tracks and the patchwork of streets buzzing with life below.
At the base, the Solamachi complex bursts with shops, cafés, and restaurants. Here, you can browse traditional crafts, savour sushi with a view, or simply watch the city unfold from a cosy corner. The Skytree is a reminder that Japan’s modern spirit is as captivating as its ancient soul.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Red Shuheart
What makes Fushimi Inari Shrine and Tokyo Skytree so compelling is not their differences but how they complement one another. One invites quiet reflection beneath ancient gates, the other lifts you high above the city into a vision of the future. Together, they reveal the essence of Japan: a place where reverence for history and passion for innovation walk side by side.
Visiting Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari and Tokyo’s Skytree is not just about ticking off landmarks—it’s about feeling the heartbeat of Japan in two very different forms. In Kyoto, each step beneath the torii gates feels like a conversation with the past, a reminder of faith, resilience, and tradition. In Tokyo, the sweeping view from the Skytree fills you with possibility, a sense of how far humanity can reach.
This contrast is what makes Japan unforgettable. It’s a country that slows you down and lifts you up, often in the same day. Long after leaving, you’ll remember the hush of the forest at Fushimi Inari, the glow of Tokyo’s skyline at night, and the feeling of standing between past and future. These are the memories that make Japan more than a destination—they make it a journey you’ll want to return to again and again.
Spain is a country that doesn’t just showcase its history—it lets you live it. In its parks, you feel the echoes of royal footsteps; in its cobbled streets, the murmur of centuries past lingers in the air. Nowhere is this more vivid than in two iconic spaces: Madrid’s Retiro Park and Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Each offers a journey through time, yet both remain woven into daily life, full of laughter, music, and the simple pleasures of the present moment.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Eduardo Rodriguez
In the heart of Madrid, Retiro Park unfolds like an oasis. Once the playground of kings and queens, it is now a beloved escape for locals and visitors alike. Step inside, and the city’s bustle fades away. You hear the dip of oars on the boating lake, the chatter of families gathered for picnics, and the strum of a guitarist playing softly beneath the shade of chestnut trees. Every corner seems to hold a story. The Crystal Palace gleams like a jewel of glass and iron, reflecting sunlit ripples from the pond at its feet. The Rose Garden perfumes the air in summer, while autumn sets the pathways ablaze with fiery colours. Joggers weave past statues, artists set up their easels, and children chase bubbles that shimmer in the afternoon light.
It’s here, in this living park, that Madrid feels most human—where history, leisure, and culture merge seamlessly. Exploring Spain by train makes it easy to pair mornings in Retiro with afternoons in other cities, each journey a chance to see the country unfold through the window: olive groves, golden fields, and mountain silhouettes rolling by.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Ana Dominguez Ruiz
Wander back into Madrid’s streets, and the city continues to dazzle. The Royal Palace rises in marble splendour, while Plaza Mayor buzzes with the clink of cups and the hum of conversation spilling from pavement cafés. Gran Vía, vibrant and theatrical, glows late into the night, while the Prado Museum preserves masterpieces that have defined Europe’s cultural story.
Madrid feels expansive and elegant, yet always welcoming—its plazas inviting you to pause, taste tapas, and join in the rhythm of life.
Moving between Madrid’s open grandeur and Barcelona’s medieval intimacy is effortless thanks to the sleek high-speed trains from Madrid to Barcelona. In just a few hours, you travel from the leafy tranquillity of Retiro to the lantern-lit alleyways of the Gothic Quarter, with the countryside flashing by as a backdrop to your adventure.
If Madrid is wide boulevards and open skies, Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is a world of shadows and secrets. Known as Barri Gòtic, it’s a tangle of narrow streets where history clings to the very stones. Walk slowly, and you’ll notice the scent of fresh bread from tiny bakeries, the cool touch of stone walls under your fingers, and the echo of footsteps where Romans once marched.
The Gothic Quarter is full of treasures: Barcelona Cathedral with its soaring spires, cloisters where geese wander between fountains, and hidden squares where locals sip wine under the glow of lanterns. In the daylight, flower-draped balconies brighten the alleys; at night, the sound of guitars drifts through the air, and the quarter takes on an almost theatrical magic.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Jorien van der Sluis
Together, these places capture the duality of Spain. Retiro Park feels like a grand stage where history is played out under open skies, while the Gothic Quarter invites you to lean in and listen closely to its whispered stories. Both are living, breathing spaces—full of children’s laughter, café chatter, and the everyday rhythm of Spanish life.
They remind us that history isn’t just locked away in museums or monuments. It’s alive in the streets, the parks, and the people who carry these traditions forward every day.
Travelling in Spain is about more than visiting sights; it’s about experiences that leave imprints on the senses. The scent of roses in Retiro Park. The shimmer of stained glass inside Barcelona Cathedral. The taste of fresh churros eaten in a hidden square. These moments are as much a part of the journey as the landmarks themselves.
Retiro Park and the Gothic Quarter may belong to two different cities, but they share one thing: the power to make history feel alive and personal. They invite you not just to look, but to feel—to pause, breathe, and connect. And as you leave, the memory lingers like sunlight on stone, a reminder that Spain’s greatest gift is how it makes you part of its unfolding story.
What makes these places unforgettable is their timeless quality. No matter how many times you return, Retiro Park always offers new corners to explore, and the Gothic Quarter reveals fresh secrets in its winding streets. They are destinations that reward curiosity, encouraging you to slow down and notice the details—the small moments that turn travel into something deeply meaningful.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Christina Rumpf
Staying active demands more than just regular workouts. You also need the right nutrients to fuel your body, keep your energy up, and recover properly. While whole foods should always form the foundation of your diet, it’s not always easy to eat enough leafy greens, colorful vegetables, or nutrient-rich plants every single day. Greens powders offer a convenient way to bridge nutritional gaps because of their accessibility.
These blends support energy, digestion, and overall wellness, things you need when you’re balancing work, exercise, and family life. But not all powders are created equal and understanding how they can fit into your daily routine is key to reaping the full benefits.
Even with the best intentions, life gets busy. You might skip a salad, eat on the go, or choose quick snacks over nutrient-dense meals. Over time, this can leave you short on essential nutrients like vitamins A, B-6, C, E, and vitamin K—all of which play crucial roles in keeping your body functioning at its best.
The challenge is even greater if you want to keep up with an active lifestyle. Workouts place extra demands on your body, increasing your need for antioxidants, minerals, and recovery nutrients. Without them, you may feel sluggish, experience bloating, or notice slower recovery after exercise.
A well-known blend called AG1 greens helps fill nutritional gaps by delivering a wide spectrum of plant-based nutrients, digestive enzymes, and antioxidants. For many, it’s an easier way to consistently support gut health, boost energy, and strengthen the immune system without relying solely on fresh produce.
High-quality organic super greens powders combine a variety of ingredients—like wheat grass, spirulina, chlorella, and other organic vegetables—into a single scoop. Together, these blends provide natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help maintain wellness even during busy days.
Some powders go further by adding digestive enzymes and probiotics, both of which offer essential gut support. When your digestive system works smoothly, you absorb more nutrients and experience less discomfort. This is especially helpful if you want extra bloating support after large meals.
Another key benefit is convenience. Instead of prepping multiple servings of veggies, a scoop of wonder gut powder or another high-quality blend mixes easily into water, smoothies, or healthy recipes. This variety makes it easier to stay consistent.
If you’re committed to your exercise routine, then you know that energy and recovery go hand in hand. Without the right nutrients, fatigue sets in quickly, making workouts feel harder than they should. Many superfoods plant-based protein powder blends include greens as part of a balanced formula, giving you both muscle support and micronutrients in one.
Some brands even offer perfect meal powder products designed to serve as a meal replacement when you don’t have time to cook. Pairing organic super greens with grass-fed pasture-raised collagen peptides or Organic Protein™ ensures that your body gets not just plant nutrients, but also the protein needed for muscle recovery and joint health. You may also have seen or heard about a collagen-based beauty powder called unflavored glow, which produces the same effect.
These thoughtful combinations help maintain consistent energy levels, prevent dips during the day, and support long-term resilience.
Not all green powders meet the same standards. Since these products become part of your daily diet, quality and safety matter. Look for blends that are third-party tested, which means they’ve been independently checked for purity and quality. This testing ensures you’re not unknowingly consuming heavy metals or contaminants.
Another important marker is USDA organic certification. This seal tells you the product meets strict farming and production standards, avoiding synthetic pesticides and artificial additives. It’s one way to know you’re getting a truly clean product made from organic vegetables and plants.
When comparing options, consider your lifestyle needs. Do you want a powder focused on gut support? Do you prefer blends with added protein for recovery? Or do you simply want a straightforward greens option to improve nutrient intake? Matching the formula to your goals makes the product far more effective.
Adding greens powders to your day is easier than you think. Pouring a scoop over a glass of water can be a quick morning ritual. You can also stir it into a smoothie for a tastier option or mix with protein powders to create a filling snack.
You can get creative by adding greens to recipes like overnight oats, energy balls, or homemade protein bars. This way, you’re not only boosting nutrition but also making it enjoyable. Flavors like Honeycrisp Apple brighten up simple drinks, while Chocolate Fudge pairs well with desserts.
Consistency is what matters most. Over time, you’ll notice improvements in digestion, steadier energy, and better workout recovery.
Supporting an active lifestyle takes determination and consistent nutrition. While whole foods should always be the foundation, greens powders can be a smart dietary supplement to keep your body supplied with essential nutrients.
These blends offer a wide range of benefits, from bloating support and improved digestion to stronger immunity and sustained energy. Choosing a high-quality product that’s third-party tested and backed by industry certifications ensures you’re nourishing your body safely.
There’s a greens option that can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, no matter what you’re looking for in a perfect meal powder. By making it part of your daily routine, you’ll give your body the extra support it needs to thrive in both workouts and everyday life.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Dave Adamson
Quarterbacks are not so much football players as they are cultural symbols. They lead teams, play in highlight reels, and, better or worse, bear the burden of fan expectation on their backs. To many, the quarterback is the face of the NFL. And that's why we can't help but be fascinated when their lives are played out like scripts from actual dramas.
Some ride a wave of glory to legendary status. Others stumble after reaching the top, fading from view faster than anyone expected. We’re captivated by both ends of the spectrum. Stories like those of NFL quarterbacks who go from heroes to zeroes prove just how quickly a career and a reputation can change.
There is a reason why quarterbacks are seated at the center of America's sports obsession. They're not merely athletes; they're celebrities, leaders, and trendsetters. Advertisements, red-carpeted events, and even movie stars or musicians share the same limelight as quarterbacks.
Their fashion is replicated. Their interviews are played back. Their wins—and losses—are on the front page. It's not football; it's fame. And when an athlete wields that much cultural weight, their story is always bigger than the game.
Who does not love an underdog's story? To witness a young quarterback transition from a rookie prospect to a household name is pure entertainment. Draft day hopes, breakout seasons, and those initial memorable big wins—it is like watching a star being formed before our eyes.
They have fans backing them. Media outlets are proclaiming them the "next big thing." And for a while, it appears their career can only improve. The rise is exciting because it's a trip we all know: the high of momentum and satisfaction in watching someone reach their potential.
However, there's another side: occasionally, that momentum doesn't translate. Scandals, slumps, or even injury can ruin even the most extraordinary careers. A quarterback's on every sports network one day; a week later, he's not even mentioned.
The change is dramatic—and that's the glory of it. Consider the list of NFL quarterbacks who've gone from heroes to zeroes. A reminder that no matter how high the pedestal, a fall can turn the entire thing around.
Is it cruel that these collapses so enthrall us? Maybe. However, it is also a natural human tendency. We love the drama of an ascent, but we are equally intrigued by the vulnerability of a fall.
Why do these stories work so well? Part of it is psychology. We're drawn to greatness, but we identify with athletes because they fight. We see their humanity when the cameras fade and, in a way, that's more interesting than victory.
It’s also classic storytelling. The arc of rise, fall, and sometimes redemption is as old as mythology. From ancient heroes to Hollywood blockbusters, we’ve always been drawn to tales of triumph followed by hardship. Quarterbacks just happen to play those roles on live television, in front of millions.
Here's the silver lining: for most QBs, the drama doesn't die with the fall. A few find second acts in the media, as coaches or businesspeople. Others dedicate themselves to giving back or doing community service. Reinvention doesn't kill the highs and lows—it opens up a new chapter.
And in all honesty, it's that very thing that makes these paths worth watching. They remind us that failures are not the end of the road. Reinvention exists. A tumble from the limelight can bring about a whole new method of making waves.
The boom and bust of NFL quarterbacks are more than star gossip. It's a reflection on human ambition, vulnerability, and resilience. From the thrill of their meteoric rises to the theatre of their unexpected falls, these stories hold us riveted because they're both larger than life and completely recognizable.
Consider why their tales are essential—because in so many ways, they reflect ours. After all, isn't that why we adore them?
PHOTO CREDITS | ABC The Golden Bachelor/John Fleenor
PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Maarten de Boer
Last week’s double episode did clear the field of women for tonight’s episode of The Golden Bachelor. We see the women getting to know one another more and we see the beginnings of the fall out with Nicholle being so overt. This week there will be a 1-on-1 date as well as a group date. Debbie gets a 1-on-1 date.
The group date is a roast and you know the women have a lot of material with Mel Owens providing a number of the information due to his podcasts prior to being on the show.
It’s always fun to see Jesse Palmer enjoy the various activities. Each of the women gave it their all for this particular date. Whoever makes the biggest impression is the winner and Nicolle will have a romantic dinner with him. She receives the date night rose.
Of course, now that the group date is over, we now have Debbie’s date. Prior to it the women talk about how long it takes to get ready and how they handle depuffing under their eyes. Michelin starred Chef Ludo Lefebvre is giving them a cooking lesson and will also make them an epic meal. Back at the house, Kathy and Susan from S1 of The Golden Bachelor swing by for a slumber party with the women! That’s definitely a great way to spend the night. They share tips, advice, and are even gifted vibrators. Back on the 1-on-1 date, Debbie gets a rose and we can see a connection between them.
The cocktail reception before the ceremony - the women have their game faces on. Each of them get time to speak with him and to share more information about who they are. Tonight, 4 women are going home! The Goldens are always tough because you only get an hour per episode and it seems like there are a larger cuts!
THEY RECEIVED ROSES | Carol, Cheryl, Cindy, Debbie, Gerri, Nicolle, Peg, Robin, and Roxanne.
THEY DIDN’T GET A ROSE | Amy, Monica B, Monica P, and Terri.
Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | Matt Swinsky
In this month’s issue, our front and back cover story is with 4X Grammy nominated artist, New York Times Best Selling Author, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist, Jay "Jeezy" Jenkins. We sit down with him to talk about his career, his creative process, his TM: 101 Live Orchestra Tour, his Las Vegas Residency, Still Snowin' - his latest album, his collaborations, and Street Dreamz Foundation.
We sat down with the Co-Founder/CCO of Dagne Dover, Jessy Dover. We wanted to know more about this brand, how it started, it's ethos, and her creative process in designing bags and luggage thay allow people to live a full lifestyle well accessorized.
S2 of STARZ's The Couple Next Door is back taking us to the cul-de-sac where secrets and more will make themselves known. We sat down with Sam Palladio, Sendhill Ramamurthy, and Annabel Scholey. We talk about how they came to the show, how they prepared for their characters, and what we should expect from this season.
We share a recap of NYFW SS26, which included a number of shows from Janet Mandell, NYMD, Christian Siriano, Rynshu and more. We also have an interview with Supermodel, Niki Taylor moments before she made a return to the runway of Mott50.
We caught up with pickleball athlete Tyson Apostol to find out about his pickleball career, his passion for the game and the power of gummies and sleep! In addition, as the winner of Survivor: Blood vs Water, he gaves us insights on S49 of Survivor.
As TYLENOL has become the partner to the NWSL as well as Gotham FC here in NY, we wanted to sit down with them to find out about how they are ensuring that fans as well as athletes are able to manage their pain while taking in their favorite sports.
We caught up with surfers who participated in this year's A Great Day in the Stoke presented by Lexus. We talk with the creator of this event, Nate Fluellen and competitor, Farmy Dia. We wanted to know more about the event, why it was created and how it brings the Surfing community together.
Next month Orange Glou Fair returns to bring you the best of natural Orange Wines. Founded by Doreen Winkler, she gives us a preview on what we can expect from next month's event as well as who we should anticipate sipping.
This month, we had the pleasure of talking with Dan Abrams (On Patrol: Live, Live PD, Court Cam) and Amanda Paul-Garnier about the first Drinks with Benefits that took place this month. This Non-Alc event allows attendees to enjoy the best of this category along with food pairings. We wanted to know more about Dan's aproach to creating the event, the industry, and his interest in hospitality. We also recap what we saw while we were there.
We will be covering next month's Food Network NYC Wine Food Festival presented by Invesco QQQ in The Seaport. We share a bit about this festival, what we're looking forward to and events that you should keep an eye out for.
We headed to NYC's Leonetta which is known for their Mediterranean cuisine and good vibes that makes you feel you are away on vacation! We sat down with Chef Ed Cotton to know more about the restaurant, their beverage program, and upcoming events in this month's The Art of the Snack.
This month's Athleisure List comes from robotic massage wellness brand, Aescape. We also talked with wellness luxury center, Biograph.
Our cover star, Jeezy shares his 9PLAYLIST MULTI with us on what songs are on his playlist, what he is reading, and what streamed shows and podcasts he is listening to. Meghan Markle of Netflix's With Love, Meghan shares her 9PLAYLIST. Our 9LIST STORI3S3 shares Jessy Dover of Dagne Dover's must-haves in beauty, style, and fitness.
Read the SEP ISSUE #117 of Athleisure Mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Barrett Ward
After a tough workout, it’s easy to focus on stretching your muscles, hydrating, and cooling down while forgetting one very important part of your body: your feet. They carry you through runs, support you during squats, and keep you balanced in yoga poses. Showing your feet some love after exercise not only feels good but also helps with recovery, comfort, and overall well-being.
Here are some simple yet effective ways to give your feet the care they deserve.
1. Cool Down with a Soak
One of the best ways to relax tired feet is to soak them in warm water with Epsom salts. This eases tension, reduces soreness, and helps circulation. For an extra refreshing touch, add a few drops of peppermint oil or soak in cool water to calm inflammation after a long run.
2. Stretch and Massage
Feet benefit from gentle stretching just like the rest of your body. Flex your toes, rotate your ankles, and use a tennis ball or massage roller to ease tightness. A few minutes of self-massage can improve blood flow and relieve pressure from arches and heels.
3. Moisturize and Pamper
After a shower or soak, apply a rich foot cream to keep the skin soft and hydrated. Massaging in moisturizer also doubles as another way to ease tired muscles. For a spa-like feel, slip on cotton socks afterward to help the cream absorb deeply.
4. Pay Attention to What’s Underfoot at Home
The surfaces you walk on play a big role in how your feet feel after exercise. Hardwood, tile, or concrete can be tough on joints and arches when you’re barefoot or in thin socks. Adding softness underfoot makes a world of difference. Carpeting offers consistent cushioning across a room, while extra rugs or runners in high-traffic areas give you comfort right where you need it most. Getting one of these vintage shaggy rugs in the living room or a padded runner in the hallway provides relief and adds warmth to your space. Creating these soft zones at home not only helps your feet recover but also makes your environment feel more inviting and cozy.
5. Choose Supportive Footwear
Your recovery doesn’t end when the workout is over. Supportive shoes or cushioned slides give your feet a break from high-impact activity. Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces immediately after exercise, since this can add stress to already tired muscles.
6. Elevate and Rest
After being active, elevating your feet above heart level for 10–15 minutes can reduce swelling and encourage circulation. Pair this with relaxation, such as reading, meditating, or simply resting, and your feet will thank you.
Your feet work hard for you every day, so for those days when you’re working out or on your feet for longer, it’s important to look after them. By soaking, stretching, moisturizing, and paying attention to what you have underfoot, you can show them the care they deserve. A little attention goes a long way toward keeping your feet healthy, happy, and ready for your next session.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Allan Nygren
The crisp air brings frosted fairways and shorter days, but it doesn’t have to mean a drop in your golf game.
You may not always get the sun-soaked afternoons of summer, but as we head into winter, you can keep connected to the sport you enjoy.
Dress for the cold
To transition into these cooler months, think about what to wear out on the course. The right clothing can keep you comfortable on those frosty days.
Insulated jackets, thermal base layers, and moisture-wicking fabrics keep your core warm without restricting movement. You might need to try a few different options to get the right balance while you play.
For shoes, look out for designs with winter-ready traction in the soles that give you stability on damp turf. Waterproof materials will also prevent your feet from soaking through.
Gloves tailored for cold weather play with rubber detail in the palms allow you to keep your hands warm. Disposable hand warmers tucked in your pocket also provide relief when the chill sets in between shots.
Practice indoors
When wintry weather shuts down the course, practice inside. A simple putting mat in your living room can keep your short game sharp, while a chipping net offers a way to refine accuracy and touch.
If you want an immersive experience, modern golf simulators recreate famous courses and track your swing with remarkable precision. Practicing with this type of advanced tool keeps you consistent and your mind engaged, so you won’t feel rusty when outdoor play resumes. Even taking 20 minutes a few times a week to practice helps you maintain muscle memory through the off-season.
Head somewhere warmer
Sometimes the best way to keep your skill level up is to follow the sun. Destinations like Scottsdale, Naples and Palm Springs are ideal for golf throughout the winter, with well-maintained courses and reliable weather.
A short getaway gives you the chance to play on grass instead of carpet and also enhances your enthusiasm for the game. Planning a mid-season trip can be the highlight of your winter routine, giving you something to look forward to and a chance to test your progress in real conditions.
Expand your knowledge
Not all golf progress happens with a club in hand. Now is the ideal time to dive into course management strategies, study swing techniques, or watch professional matches with a critical eye.
Books and video lessons help you understand the mental and tactical side of the game, while analyzing your own past rounds can reveal habits you might want to change. By treating the off-season as a time to learn, you return to the course with fresh ideas and a competitive edge over players who simply wait for spring.
With some adjustments, this season can become one of the most rewarding times of year to build consistency and step into spring as a stronger player.
There are certain songs on our playlist that transcend just being songs. They’re moments, portals to place and time in our lives, and in many cases the sound is timeless no matter how many decades have passed. When we heard Push the 2nd single on Matchbox 20’s debut album in 1997, we were hooked not only to the sound, lyrics and visuals of the video - but we knew that vocalist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Rob Thomas had something to say that was relevant to where we were and where we’d be in the future!
This sentiment hasn’t changed with countless hits from his band as well as his solo career that has included Smooth with Carlos Santana, Lonely No More, and This is How A Heart Breaks which continues to connect with people at a visceral level.
As this month’s cover of Athleisure Mag, we talked with Rob while he is on tour for his 6th non-holiday solo album which drops on Sep 5th. We wanted to know more about the band, his creative process, All Night Days, his tour, and more!
ATHLEISURE MAG: You were in my hometown in Indy a few days ago and I know you’re traveling throughout the Midwest right now.
ROB THOMAS: We were just there. We were just through Indianapolis and then last night, we were outside of Detroit and today, we have a day off on the bus just chilling out in St. Louis!
AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be an entertainer.
RT: I think when I exhausted all of the other options and I wasn’t good at anything else, you know? I think that when you’re lucky enough to find something that you feel like you’re good at and also – you know, when I was a kid growing up, I was in the South and I didn’t understand cars or sports and so trying to figure out where I fit in – it wasn’t until I found other people maybe in high school when I met the drama kids and the musical theater kids and they kind of spoke to me. Maybe it was the outcasts and the kids on the fringe. As I got a little older, it was musicians that were that way. It was like this fraternal group of the people that I felt like it just made sense to me.
So it was like at some point, maybe when I was like 19 or 20, it was like, I think that I want to do this as I was really writing songs. I thought, “I think that I want to do this.”
AM: Wow!
You’re so talented as a songwriter, a vocalist, and you play multiple instruments. Were you formally trained or did you just come across it all – how did all of this come together?
RT: Yeah, no – when I was a Freshman in high school, my buddies in my band were Seniors and then they all graduated and they went to Berklee College of Music and they would come back and they would bring me their music books. So I started to learn how to sight-read (Editor’s Note: It is the ability to read and perform a piece of musical notation you’ve never seen or played before, without any prior preparation or practice) chords and trying to understand relationship between notes and they would give me some of their books and I would kind of learn from that. So it’s pretty self taught and if you put me next to someone who is a really good player, it’s pretty obvious that I am self-taught.
I was alone with a guitar, I was alone with a keyboard, and I needed to learn how to write songs. I had melodies in my head, and I had songs in my head so I had to learn how to play just enough so that I could be able to write.
AM: Wow that’s interesting how you were able to access all of that as Berklee College of Music is a great school known for its jazz and popular music. My great uncle was Joe Henderson and I know that they have courses about him there.
Before we delve into your latest solo album, I can’t talk to you without talking about your band Matchbox 20. I remember when the debut CD came out, I was a Freshman in college when it came out. So for me, it was like all the things that I needed to learn about adulting and how to navigate emotions and scenarios that I hadn’t had to do before, it came from listening to your music and realizing that these things are normal! How did you come together as a band and did you think at the time that you would have this impact that resonates with so many people over all these decades?
RT: No. I mean, I think it’s funny. When you’re starting out, you have to have some sort of naïve suspension of disbelief that you’re going to make it – right? If you really thought about the odds, it would be so daunting that you would collapse under the weight of it. So I think that there was always this idea that we were going to be successful. I don’t think that we understood what that meant.
AM: Right.
RT: And I certainly don’t think that we had the ability to look forward 30 years later and realize the gift of being someone’s nostalgia. Like having this song like you said, that you went to college and this was your CD and that some people for one reason or another, at an event – someone’s wedding or their graduation and there was a song that was tied to it.
So I think that like, the gift of longevity and the ability to be around for awhile is bigger than like a level of success! It’s more of like being woven into the fabric of these fans and these people and I think that that’s a pretty special part of it.
AM: Is there going to be anything coming up that highlights the 30 year anniversary – that’s literally around the corner!
RT: Yeah, I mean, listen – we’re out on the road right now with the solo work and we’re still back and forth with Matchbox trying to plan out next year! Luckily, the end of next year marks when we put out our first record 30 years ago so we’re probably going to do some festivals next year to start gearing up for something really big at the end of the year and then touring 2027 around the world!
AM: Oh wow!
When it comes to creating music, where do you start in terms of the creative process and how is that different with you as a solo artist, you with your band, or when you’re collaborating with other artists?
RT: I mean, most of it is the same right? I write all the time. When I’m sitting down to work with someone – when I worked with Willie Nelson, we just sat down for 2 days and played each other’s songs. And then when I was done, he had written down 3 songs and he said, “I want to do these 3 songs.” If I’m writing with somebody else, maybe they come in with an idea and we can build on that. As far as if I am writing for someone or with someone, I’m just kind of drawing from this bucket of songs that I have worked on. If I go to Matchbox, I’m like, “do you guys like this song or how about this song?” I think that we all work that way so it’s never really like, gearing up for – well, I’m writing this song for this person so I need to get into this mindset. At some point, if someone wants to write with me, they probably want my point of view. So they will put their spin on my point of view.
AM: How would you define the Rob Thomas sound?
RT: Geez. I don’t know! I’ve been really fortunate that fans have allowed me to step outside and just do – I mean, if you listen to 3AM say 30 years ago, and you listen to Hard to Be Happy now, or if you listen to Lonely No More – those sound like different bands. They could be different artists. But I think that my voice is my voice and it ties them all together. So I don’t know that I have a certain – I write songs and I think about people and how people interact with each other. It’s just a very normal thing, right?
AM: Mmm.
RT: Like if I write about something going on in my life, it’s my job to write about how that thing makes me feel because you understand that – that has happened to you. You don’t need to know about me and my wife having a fight, you just need to know, “oh I know how you feel!”
AM: You’ve said that as a kid of the 80s, there are elements of that throughout your work. How do you add that aesthetic into your music while combining the various genres that you have been on and still making it sound current even if some of it is older?
RT: You know, I think part of it is that I have always went into this genreless. I think that that’s because when I grew up in the 80s, 80s radio was genreless. You would have MC Hammer played right after Van Halen and played right after Whitney Houston and then right after Bobby Brown and then Ozzy Osbourne.
AM: 100%.
RT: All of these things would play because MTV, that was our national radio!
AM: Oh yeah!
RT: It was all over the place. I think that growing up in the 80s made me more fearless where I didn’t have to be this kind of a writer and I’m a rock guy. Like, if in my whole career I had stayed 90s alt-rock like our first Matchbox 20 record, it would have been very limiting in all of the stuff that I could do later on.
AM: When I first heard Smooth, like many, I was blown away by so many things in the song and in the video! How was it for you to navigate the concept that you would be able to do both as a solo artist and then popping back in with your band?
RT: I mean, it took awhile! Looking back, Smooth happened between our 1st and 2nd record. Then we made 2 more records until I went solo. So it was 10 years into the Matchbox career before I made my 1st solo record! So it took me awhile even after Smooth! The thing about Smooth was that it opened the doors as a writer. So even when I was with Matchbox 20, I was doing a lot of outside writing for other things with Carlos, Seal, Marc Anthony, Willie Nelson, and Mick Jagger. I was getting a chance to be an anonymous writer for these other voices which was very very cool and then with Matchbox – we went from record to record to record and then on tour for like 10 years straight, so whenever we took that break, then it made sense and we all went out and made solo records.
AM: We were bummed that we were unable to catch your show at the Seaport earlier this month All Night Days is dropping Sep 5th and you’re currently on tour promoting the album. Why did you want to create this album and what can you tell us about it? We listened to Thrill Me which we really love and I enjoyed Hard to Be Happy and it has a fun video.
RT: Thank you! Thrill Me is my favorite. I think that there is almost an OCD to writing in that – like I said, I am writing all of the time. So if I don’t get some of these songs out, it’s a clutter in my head and I feel like there is no room for more material and other things. We were coming up on my 20th anniversary of my first solo record and I couldn’t think of a better way to commemorate it then to just let people know that I was still writing!
AM: I love that!
Since you’re on tour, you have the US portion and then you’re in Australia and New Zealand with a number of dates that takes place this Fall so you have quite an interesting schedule. How do you prepare for such a schedule, the performances, all the different cities, are there workouts that you like to do or must do’s before you hit the stage or after?
RT: Yeah, I mean, I think that I was much more careless about my body and my health when I was much younger. As you get older, you don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard right?
AM: Facts!
RT: You’re limited with your options out here. So I started with – there’s a Beach Body on Demand (Editor’s Note: aka BODi) that has a series of workouts like Insanity, P90X, Shift Shop and all of these things. Those are kind of great because a lot of those are bodyweight, calisthenics, so I don’t have an excuse. If I’m on the bus that day, I can do them on the bus. I can do a full hour long crushing workout! Sometimes they’re harder then just going to the gym with weights.
You know, I get a bonus workout every night. It’s 2 hours of just screaming and running back and forth you know? We love, the whole band – jokes about how we like a good hot night in the Summer! You feel like it’s part of the weight loss plan. It’s great to go out there and sweat off what we had for dinner.
I don’t do after show food. It used to be a big thing you know. After the show everybody orders some food because you’re really hungry and you’ve burned off a lot of that energy, but when I’m on the road, I find that I am probably on an 18 hour fast because I eat around 5:30pm and I don’t eat again until after I wake up and work out the next day. Keeping that, green juices, keeping vitamins – I think it’s your basic upkeep! I don’t think that you have to become obsessive about things, but I think that if you’re mindful, then you wind up – I have a different relationship with food. I have a different relationship with alcohol than I used to – well maybe only slightly!
AM: That’s fair!
RT: Well, every little bit helps!
AM: Your son is also on tour with you as your lead guitarist! What has that been like to have Maison with you?
RT: Well it’s great! He graduated from Berklee as well.
AM: Nice!
RT: Yeah. He went to Berklee and he has a band called The Lucky and they met there and as soon as they graduated, they all moved out to LA.
My guitar player from my solo band, he had just retired from live music. He’s been producing and writing for other people and killing it. It was his idea and he has been watching Maison on IG and sharing his shred videos and so I reached out and asked him if he wanted to do it. It has been the time of our lives! He fits right in although he brings the median age to the band down significantly! Having that energy has been really great. He’s known this band from when it was formed when he was 7. So when he was a little kid, he was on stage goofing with Al and Abe, my rhythm section. Now to see him as an active and integral section of the band, I have to stop sometimes because I almost forget that I’m performing because I will just stop and watch him.
AM: What do you want your legacy to be known as. You’ve had over 40M+ albums sold with the band, you have your 18M+ album sales with your solo career – what do you want people to feel about Rob Thomas?
RT: I mean, I don’t care! I think that I want the songs that I have written that have meant something to people – for them to carry on. If they ever forgot who wrote them, I don’t think that I would care. I like that those little pieces of music exist out there in the world and that they are out there for somebody if they want to use them for good times or for bad. It’s so selfish what I get to do – you know what I mean?
AM: Of course!
RT: I get to make a living doing the thing that I love. Most people, you spend most of your time working. Most people don’t get the ability to spend that time doing something that they really really enjoy. So it is a gift that is never lost on me. I get to do it and it is a sense of catharsis and therapy to write and be able to share it with people – like minded people. People seeing that you feel that way too and that they are not freaks! So, I think that just in general, I want the songs to kind of remain.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share that we can tell our community about?
RT: I’m in it right now! This is it right now! For me, every night we have to pretend that it is our first show!
AM: Right!
RT: For some people, it is the only one that they are going to come to. We don’t think too much farther then, we’re going to crush it tomorrow. That’s our mantra, “let’s just crush is tomorrow.”
IG @robthomas
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 16 - 23 + 32 - 37 Ashley Haer | PG 25 - 27 Andrew Angel | PG 28 - 31 Randall Slavin |
Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see SONGS TO LIVE BY | Rob Thomas in mag.
US OPEN LAVAZZA SUITES - MIXED DOUBLES
This time of year is one of our favorites as the US Open brings tennis’ best and brightes to play at Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong Stadium for 3 weeks. In addition to the action that is on the court, there are a number of adjacent events that take place throughout the city! Although the month of Sept. will continue these festivities, we’re recapping what we participated this month.
We kicked off our US Open experience with the team at Lavazza who invited us to go to their suite to watch a series of mixed double matches with our favorites!
We kicked off the morning hitting the grounds to see where fans can get their coffee fix as they arrive and in between matches. In addition to having a large free standing booth that serves hot and cold coffees, you can also get cocktails there as well such as an Espresso martini. Throughout the complex, there are smaller areas to get a coffee as well as to engage with the brands whether it’s playing interactive games to win prizes, photo opportunities with a “stadium” as well as their mascot Luigi!
After taking the tour, we made our way to the suite where we were able to watch phenomenal matches as well as to meet members from the executive team of hear about where Lavazza is focusing its efforts in terms of where it sits in the marketplace, partnerships that are very interesting that will be announced soon, and their partnership with Jannik Sinner (20X ATP Tour Singles Titles, 2X Australian Champion, 2025 Wimbledon Champion, 2025 US Open Champion).
It was great to sit outside of the suite to catch our first match Gaël Monfils (13 ATP Tour Singles Titles)/Naomi Osaka (2X Australian Open Champion, 2X US Open Champion) - L vs Lorenzo Musetti (2 ATP Tour Singles Titles, Team Italy Tennis 2024 Paris Olympics Bronze Medalist)/Caty McNally (8X WTA Tour Doubles Titles Champion) - W and Iga Świątek (WTA No 2 in Women’s Singles, 24 WTA Tour Singles Titles, 4X French Open Champion, 2025 Wimbledon Champion, 2022 US Open Champion)/Casper Ruud (13 ATP Tour Singles Titles) - W vs Madison Keys (2025 Australian Open Champion)/Frances Tiafoe - L played during Round of 16 which led to the Quarter Final between Iga Świątek/Casper Ruud - W vs Caty McNally/Lorenzo Musetti - L. Ultimately, Iga Swiatek/Casper Ruud won this round and advanced in their mixed doubles.
In the other matches for Round of 16, we saw Jack Draper (3X ATP Tour Title Champion)/Jessica Pegula - W vs Emma Raducanu (2021 US Open Champion)/Carlos Alcaraz (22 ATP Tour Singles Titles, 2X French Open Champion, 2X Wimbeldon Champion, 2022 US Open Champion) - L and then the other match in that round was Novak Djokovic (100X Singles Title Winner, 10X Australian Open Champion, 3X French Open Champion, 7X Wimbledon Champion, 4X US Open Champion, Team Serbia Olympic Tennis 2024 Gold Medalist)/Olga Danilović (2X WTA Singles Titles + 2X WTA Doubles Titles) - L vs Mirra Andreeva (3X WTA Tour Singles TItles)/Daniil Medvedev (20X ATP Tour Singles Titles + 2021 US Open Champion) - W. The winners from this portion of Round of 16 played one another for the Wyarter Final Jack Draper/Jessica Pegula - W vs Daniil Medvedev/Mirra Andreeva - L.
It was a great day of matches and feeling all the magic that comes with seeing the US Open and being part of the action.
IG @lavazzausa
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 43 - 44 Kimmie Smith
WTA CLUBHOUSE X GILLETTE VENUS
Later that week, we made our way to the WTA Clubhouse where we got to enjoy a number of activities while celebrating women in tennis. Whether you took in a workout with Tunde Oyeneyin (Peleton instructor, Nike athlete, and NY Times Best Selling Author), enjoyed an array of treats at their cafe, shopped the marketplace or listened to the panel that included Taylor Townsend (WTA world No. 1 in doubles, 8X WTA Tour Titles, 2024 Wimbledon Doubles Champion, 2025 Australian Open Doubles Champion), Tunde, and Nana Agyemang (CEO of Every Stylish Girl) as they talked about the importance of confidence and navigating their careers that was moderated by The Cut’s Tefi Pessoa.
The WTA is the principal organizing body and global leader for women’s professionall tennis which was founded in 1973 by Billie Jean King (39 Grand Slam Titles - 12X Singles, 16X Women’s Doubles, 11X Mixed Doubles - 4X Australian Open Champion in Singles/Doubles/Miced Doubles, 3X French Open Champion Singles/Doubles/Mixed Doubles, 20X Wimbledon Champion Singles/Doubles/Mixed Doubles, 13X US Open Champion Singles/Doubles/Mixed Doubles) to govern the WTA Tour and rank female players.
It was great to hear from these women and to also continue to celebrate their achievements as well as continuing to get excited about US Open.
IG @wta
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 46 - 49 Gillette Venus
TASTE OF TENNIS NEW YORK
As we mentioned in last month’s issue, Taste of Tennis is a yearly event that is known for bringing the world of tennis and culinary together. Guests who attend this event enjoy being able to eat a number of dishes throughout the night and this year’s hosting partner for this event was Aqua New York. In addition, they get to meet tennis greats past and present who continue to bring the good vibes. This year Sloane Stephens (8X WTA Tour level singles titles, 2017 US Open Champion), Chris Eubanks, and Genie Bouchard to name a few were in attendance.
EVIAN BIG FOE X DANIEL DINNER
We were excited to make our way to evian’s dinner which was held at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. This sit down dinner brought Frances Tiafoe (along with his family and friends) and Chef Daniel Boulud together with the official water sponsor of the US Open, evian.
While taking in the stunning views, we enjoyed an array of appetizers, cocktails, chatting with Chef Daniel’s and taking a moment from all of the matches that we had watched during the week.
This sit down dinner was inspired by Frances’ favorite dishes that he grew up with. We were able to be among the first people to experience the evian Club’s limited edition menu. Each place setting had a glass evian bottle that had our names etched on it.
You can enjoy this meal exclusively at Chef Daniel’s flagship Michelin-starred Restaurant DANIEL from Sep 3-7th and can be booked now. For those that can’t make it here to NY, you can enjoy Chef Daniel’s Big Foe Treat Box at Goldbelly to enjoy from your home while watching the matches.
IG @evianwater
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 50 - 57 evian PG 58 + 59
Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see WELCOME TO US OPEN 2025 in mag.
This month, we had the pleasure of watching Major League Pickleball Finals here in NY at CityPickle at Wollman Rink in Central Park. After catching this action last month for their last NY tournament at Randall’s Island, we knew we would be in for a day of great matches! This 3 day event kicked off on the Fri. the 22nd where we watched the Premier teams battle it out. This included Columbus Sliders, Los Angeles Mad Drops, New Jersey 5s, and St Louis Shock. There were great moments as we watched Mixed Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Men’s Doubles. For those who came on the 2nd day, they were able to see the Premier teams play their final matched and the first day of the Challengers Las Vegas Night Owls and Nashville Chefs.
On Sun. the 24th, attendees were able to watch the finalists from the Premier team - Columbus Sliders vs New Jersey 5s and the last matchs of the Challengers with Las Vegas Night Owls vs Nashville Chefs. Ultimately, the Premier finalists were the Columbus Sliders and the Challengers finalists were the Las Vegas Night Owls!
It was an incredible weekend of matches, love of pickleball and we enjoyed that our team was able to catch it all thanks to Dulce Vida Tequila who provided us with VIP tickets so that we could see it all in the VIP/Owners tents as they are the official and exclusive tequila partner of MLP.
The next 3 day event to watch for the MLP season of 2025 will be the Edward Jones MLP Cup Oct 31 - Nov 2nd at Brookhaven Country Club in Farmers Branch, TX. As this is the final match of the MLP season, we’re already excited for what’s to come next year!
PHOTOGRAPHY | Major League Pickleball | PG 72 Sye Williams |
Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see MAJOR LEAGUE PICKLEBALL FINALS 2025, CITYPICKLE CENTRAL PARK, NYC in mag.
There is nothing like ending your meal with the perfect treat or even giving your self something special while you’re out and about! Milk Bar is the perfect treat that in addition to being innovative in the way that flavors come together, it’s also the nostalgia of it all! Whether you’re popping into one of their bakeries (5 locations in NYC, Chicago, LA, Las Vegas, and DC), or shopping online – there is something about enjoying their cookies, cakes, milks etc that is utterly satisfying. Chef Christina Tosi (Netflix’s Bake Squad and With Love, Meghan and FX’s The Bear) is the creator of Milk Bar which is spin-off from David Chang’s Momofuku restaurant group.
We had the pleasure of sitting down talking with this founder, entrepreneur, baker, and TV personality/host to talk about how she came into the industry, her iconic Milk Bar, and her recent collaboration with Premier Protein which is available through the end of August where you can enjoy treats made within this collaboration - Blueberry Pancake Super Cookie! It’s made with Premier Protein Vanilla 100% Whey Powder and you are obtaining 10g of Protein in this chewy cookie along with tangy blueberries and decadent maple notes which is satisfying.
ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first baked good that you fell in love with?
CHEF CHRISTINA TOSI: Well technically it wasn’t a baked good- it was my grandma’s oatmeal cookie DOUGH! She didn’t realize I was sneaking punches of it as a kid every time she looked away. I love the act of mixing and baking and giving away cookies, but I REALLY loved that dough.
AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be a chef and to work in pastry?
CHEF CT: When it was time to enter the workforce, the thought of taking a desk job terrified me. When I asked myself what I wanted to do for a living every day for the rest of my life- I only had one answer: “make cookies.”
AM: How did you come to the Momofuku world initially?
CHEF CT: I met Dave through a chef friend when Dave needed help writing a HACCP plan for the health department. We got along royally and it was clear he needed some help building his restaurant empire, so I started working with him in a non-party chef capacity to start. But bakers gonna bake and eventually I found myself working ops by day and moonlighting as Momo’s first and only pastry chef.
AM: What led to the creation of Milk Bar?
CHEF CT: I wanted to bridge my fine dining, formally trained pastry chef background with my home baker upbringing.
AM: You have done a number of collaborations and your latest one is taking place this month with Premier Protein! Can you tell us more about why you partnered with them and tell us more about this partnership?
CHEF CT: I love the fact that Milk Bar and Premier Protein both see the world in the same way - we both love to show up and make people’s lives more positive, more fulfilling, more full of brightness and life. And we believe that flavor is at the heart of that (no sacrificing when it comes to living life to its fullest or most nutritious!). I also LOVED the challenge of creating baked goods that not only satisfied the sweet tooth in us but also kept us feeling satisfied and powerful through the day. I’ve become a protein hound myself off the clock and was really inspired to work with my incredible team to create baked goods that look as good as they taste and deliver on every promise - taste at the tippy top!
AM: What is your creative process when it comes to adding items to this menu?
CHEF CT: We like to define a flavor story first - is it a time, a food memory, a dish, a season that we’re trying to deconstruct and reconstruct into a cookie, cake, pie, ice cream, latte, etc., then we got at it with all our might trading notes, building spreadsheets of formulas and revisions as we tinker and taste, tinker and taste. When we think something is ready for prime time, we hold a larger tasting with the team to get as much feedback as possible across different pallets. It’s really fun work, but sometimes really harrowing. It took us 2 whole years to get our Birthday Cake just right before we put it on the menu. If we’re not obsessed with it, we can’t expect you to be and so we keep working.
AM: Why do you think Milk Bar resonates with so many people?
CHEF CT: We exist to democratize dessert - to make people happy with dessert and we spend a lot of time thinking, seating, creating and tinkering to find the bullseye of food that makes people feel seen and known and loved, but also new and full of potential and excited about what’s to come in life. I know, that’s a lot for answering soft serve or a fudgy centered cookie or layer cake to hold, but I think we do a pretty good job of it and the proof is in the proverbial pudding.
AM: We loved seeing Bake Club during the pandemic in our IG feeds and you recently released a cookbook of the same name last Fall. Why did you want to write this cookbook and what are you excited for readers and bakers to know about it?
CHEF CT: I love demystifying baking - love letting folks in behind the curtain, give them the best recipes, great tips that unlock their creativity and potential, and above all else create a community of fun. So from homemade sprinkles to soft pretzels, chocolate mirror cake and creme brûlée to the best ever chocolate chip cookies ice cream cones and pb s’mores bars, I got you. All you have to do is show up to a world full of must-have kitchen moves. I’ll be your guide!
AM: We always enjoy seeing your projects whether they are your collabs, limited edition launches, seeing you host/judging or appearing on S3 of The Bear – are there any upcoming projects that you want to share with us that we can keep an eye out for?
CHEF CT: We have some really fun Bake Clubs we’ll drop in the coming weeks, and there’s some fun places we’ll show up in your lives when you least expect it this fall and winter - but mum’s the word beyond that :)
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Milk Bar
Read the AUG ISSUE #116 of Athleisure Mag and see BAKE CLUB RULES (NO RULES!) | Christina Tosi in mag.
Your week is packed. A quick run between meetings, a lift at lunch, a lighter dinner when you can. Some days you feel sharp, other days your legs feel like sandbags.
That’s why a lot of active people ask about NAD⁺. If you want options you can manage from home, you can learn more through NAD online. Here’s a simple guide to what it is, how it may fit your plan, and what to ask before you try it.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Towfiqu barbhuiya
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD⁺, is a coenzyme your cells use to turn food into energy. It helps enzymes run pathways that make ATP, which powers muscle contraction, brain work, and recovery.
You don’t need biochem notes to get the point. If you train hard, how your cells handle energy shows up on the bar and on your runs across a normal work week.
NAD⁺ levels can shift with age, poor sleep, and heavy training blocks. Researchers also study links to mitochondria and cell repair. If you want a quick primer, the overview on Wikipedia explains its role in metabolism in plain language.
NAD⁺ isn’t a shortcut. Food intake, protein, movement, and sleep do most of the work. The possible win is steadier energy, which helps you finish what you plan.
Here’s the practical link. Better cellular energy may help you keep a steady training volume. Three strength sessions plus two short cardio blocks beat two rushed workouts and a skipped day.
Many people also notice the 3 p.m. slump eases, which can quiet the pantry raid. If you’re running a small daily deficit, feeling steady makes it easier to stick with it.
Worth saying, evidence for direct fat loss from NAD⁺ therapy is still early. Energy and recovery look more promising than the scale itself. For a balanced, plain English summary of potential benefits and side effects, see this review on Healthline.
NAD⁺ therapy can be given as IV infusions, injections, or sublingual troches. Each option has tradeoffs.
● IV infusions: Clinic visits that run one to several hours. Good if you like fixed appointments and someone else sets things up.
● Injections: At home and quick, usually on a set schedule. Popular with people who live in calendar blocks.
● Troches: Under the tongue. If needles make you tense, start here.
Dosing plans vary. The right plan considers training load, sleep, body weight goals, and other meds. Some providers pair NAD⁺ with weight loss medications. If your team suggests a combo, ask why it fits your goals and how side effects are tracked.
Tell your provider about migraines, arrhythmias, liver issues, prescriptions, supplements, caffeine, and alcohol. If you’re pregnant or nursing, ask for a different plan. Mild nausea, headache, or flushing can show up. Chest pain, severe dizziness, or allergic symptoms mean stop and call. Good telemedicine services review these points before you start.
Waiting rooms don’t pair well with back to back meetings. Video visit, plan set, meds shipped, quick follow ups. The real benefit is consistency. Easy access keeps you on the plan long enough to see change.
● Video consult: Goals, training schedule, past weight changes, safety.
● Home delivery: Clear instructions and supplies, no pharmacy sprint.
● Follow ups: Short check ins. Move timing when travel or heavy weeks hit.
NAD⁺ works best as part of a week that includes smart food, movement, and recovery. Use this simple plan for month one.
● Calorie target you can repeat: Small daily deficit, not a crash. Protein around 1.6 to 2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight. If tracking stresses you out, use a plate guide. Half veggies, quarter lean protein, quarter carbs, and add a thumb of fats if you’re starving.
● Training you can finish on busy days: Two full body lifts and two 25 to 35 minute cardio sessions. If you only have 18 minutes, do 18. Done beats skipped.
● Steps and movement breaks: Keep steps steady across the day. Put a 10 minute walk after lunch or dinner on your calendar so it happens.
● Sleep: Aim for seven to nine hours. Same bedtime. If that’s tough, try a 20 minute wind down with light reading, breath work, or a warm shower.
● Caffeine limits: Cut it by early afternoon to protect sleep. Sleep moves the needle more than an extra espresso.
If you pair NAD⁺ with a weight loss medication, ask how to time doses around workouts and travel. Plan hard sessions on days your stomach behaves.
Tools beat hope. Keep a short weekly review.
● Weight trend: Weigh in three times per week at the same time. Log the rolling average. Watch the trend, not single days.
● Waist or hip measure: One tape measure reading per week. This tracks fat loss when water swings hide changes on the scale.
● Training log: Session type, sets, reps, distance, and effort. Mark sessions cut short by fatigue.
● Energy and hunger notes: One or two lines per day. Patterns often link to dose timing, sleep, or stress.
If the four week trend is flat, change one lever, not five. Trim 150 to 200 calories, add one short cardio block, or fix bedtime. Share your log during follow ups so your provider can fine tune the plan.
Bring a list so the call stays focused. A few good ones:
● What’s my starting dose and schedule based on my training?
● When might I feel steadier energy?
● What side effects should I watch for, and what’s the plan if they show up?
● How will we track progress at four and twelve weeks?
● If we combine therapies, what changes first if workouts feel off?
● How do we handle travel and stacked meeting weeks?
Good answers here usually predict a smoother program.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Towfiqu barbhuiya
NAD⁺ can help you feel steadier across work and workouts, which makes food choices and training easier to repeat. Keep access simple with telemedicine, pair the therapy with basic habits, and track your trend lines. Small changes, done most days, add up.
PHOTO CREDITS | ABC The Golden Bachelor/John Fleenor
PHOTO CREDIT | Disney/Maarten de Boer
We’re settling in for another season of The Golden Bachelor as we watch Mel Owens find his way through his journey to find someone to love. This former NFL Rams’ player and Partner and Attorney at Law for Namanny, Byrne & Owens is on his quest for love and we can’t wait to see his season and how it unfolds. We have a bit of an expectation of how it will go as this is S2 but Bachelor Nation knows that each season tends to be its own snowflake of sorts!
It’s interesting that the episode started addressing when Mel talked about the fact that he wouldn’t want to date women of a certain age (over 60) - he even acknowledged it and we heard some of the contestants also weighing in. We’ll see who will go forward after the first elimination. The fact that he is fom Detroit and talked about his connection with Motown and being part of the community and how he came to football is an interesting nuance in terms of getting to know more about him. Hearing about his father passing as well as his wife asking for a divorce really lets us see where he’s at in life after raising his sons.
After getting his backstory, he’s finally about to meet the women and he takes a moment to chat with Jesse Palmer. The limos pull up and it’s great to see the women that we have heard about over the past few weeks.
We’re already excited about Carol (loved her look) and Diane definitely let it be knonwn that she heard the interview - he did say that he would like to chat with her more and to get the chance to know her. A number of women reference it and let him know that people over 60 are vital and worth knowing. Sandra from S1 of The Golden Bachelor, introduced Mel to her twin sister Andra who will be on this season! After seeing the women outside and spending time with him, the First Impression rose went to Gerri! The sun has literally come up as they are heading into the Rose Ceremony! 17 women will be going forward to the next phase - meaning that 6 are being cut.
THEY RECEIVED ROSES | Alexandra, Amy, Carla, Carol, Cheryl, Cindy, Debbie, Diane, Gerri, Monica B, Monica P, Mylene, Nicolle, Peg, Robin, Roxanne, and Terri.
THEY DIDN’T GET A ROSE | Andra, Lily, Lisa, Maia, Susie, and Tracy.
After a long night, the women are able to finally check out their rooms and settle in. Jessie lets them know that there will be 1 1-on-1 date as well as a group date. Cheryl gets to have solo time with him. Interestingly enough, we picked Cheryl as someone who would go to Hometowns before even seeing this episode and we think that we’re still on point with this prediction.
Cheryl is told that she needs to go to the other room where she is able to select a dress and diamond jewelry from Neil Lane Jewelry to complete her look for her date. Mel arrives in a tux and they make their way to the Rolls Royce he came to the house in.
They talk about her life, the fact that her ex-husband took her child for a period of time and how she forgave him. She received the Date Rose.
On the group date, they met at the original home of the LA Rams where Mel was in a Rams jersey and Paula Abdul appeared as the women will be cheerleaders. They are divided into 2 teams and one team will win and the other will go back to the house and not be able to have extra time with Mel.
The Blue Team ends up winning and they get more time with him. There amazing connections that you can see are being made and Cindy receives the Group Date Rose.
The next day, the women get to enjoy a pool party at the house which is important as there is a rose ceremony that will take place later that night. Nicolle continues to not only give him kisses in public, but in such a way that the other women are really starting to notice (versus when he and Cindy did so in a private moment).
THEY RECEIVED ROSES | Amy, Carol, Cheryl, Cindy, Debbie, Gerri, Monica B, Monica P, Nicolle, Peg, Robin, and Terri.
THEY DIDN’T GET A ROSE | Alexandra, Carla, Diane, and Mylene.
Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden Bachelor and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!
Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.
We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
