ROSE BOWL GAME

We’re looking forward to kicking off the New Year with the iconic 112th Rose Bowl Game with Alabama Crimson Tide (9) against Indiana Hoosiers (1) as they go against each other for this Playoff Quarterfinal. We’re already looking forward to this game on Jan 1st at 4pm ET!

Indiana won the Big Ten Championship for the first time since 1967 in their game against Ohio State. Although the Hoosiers started ranked 20th, after winning the Big Ten title the university is the only undefeated team in the Football Bowl Subdivision. They are the overall No 1 seed. Their all-time bowl record is 3-10.

Alabama defeated Oklahoma in the first round of the CFP playoffs. This is their 9th appearance at the Rose Bowl Game with a record of 5-2-1 and an all-time bowl record of 42-27-3.

HOW MUSIC-BASED LESSONS IMPROVE SPANISH LISTENING SKILLS

Music can transform how you understand Spanish. Instead of memorizing vocabulary lists, you train your ear through rhythm, melody, and natural speech patterns. Songs expose you to accents, slang, and real expressions that help you grasp how Spanish sounds in everyday situations. Music-based lessons improve Spanish listening skills by connecting sound, meaning, and memory in a more natural and lasting way.

You learn much faster when the content feels alive. A catchy song helps you remember new words and phrases long after a lesson ends. Repeating lyrics builds pronunciation and confidence, while cultural elements within the music deepen your appreciation of the language. To make progress even faster, combine this approach with personalized Spanish lessons online that adapt to your level and goals. Compared to group or on-site classes, this method adapts to your pace and interests, giving you more speaking time and faster progress instead of following a one-size-fits-all structure.

Key Takeaways

●       Music creates natural connections between sound and meaning

●       Songs build vocabulary and pronunciation through repetition

●       Personalized lessons and music together improve real-life listening skills

Core Benefits of Music-Based Spanish Lessons

Music-based Spanish lessons help you hear natural language patterns, build stronger pronunciation habits, and remember grammar and vocabulary more effectively. By using songs with native Spanish speakers, you develop both listening and speaking skills in a way that feels practical and connected to real communication.

Accelerating Spanish Listening Comprehension

Your listening skills improve faster when you study Spanish through music. Spanish songs expose you to real accents, rhythm, and pace, which train your ear to recognize word boundaries and natural sentence flow. Lyrics often reflect everyday speech, allowing you to connect spoken sounds with written words in context.

Repeated exposure to common phrases helps you identify idiomatic expressions that appear in conversation. For example, hearing the same phrase across different songs reinforces your ability to recognize it during real-life conversations. The music itself also supports memory. Melody and rhythm form patterns in your brain that make recall faster and easier.

You also gain more cultural awareness. Songs introduce slang, regional vocabulary, and pronunciation styles from different Spanish-speaking countries. This broadens your understanding of how Spanish sounds in authentic settings and makes real-world communication more accessible.

Enhancing Pronunciation and Speaking Fluency

Listening to Spanish music often allows you to hear how native speakers naturally stress syllables and link words. You can imitate tone and rhythm more accurately than through textbook study alone. Singing or repeating lines from songs helps your mouth adjust to new sounds, improving articulation and fluency.

Through consistent practice, you begin to correct pronunciation errors and develop smoother speech patterns. For instance, copying the melody of a verse helps you master intonation and emotional expression, both important parts of speaking naturally.

Music also lowers pressure and creates a relaxed atmosphere, reducing fear of mistakes. You gain confidence to try new words aloud, and your spoken Spanish becomes more fluid over time.

Boosting Vocabulary and Grammar Retention

Spanish songs contain grammar structures and verb conjugations presented in meaningful context. You see and hear how words function inside sentences rather than as isolated definitions. This context-based learning helps you remember patterns for longer periods.

Repetition plays a major role. Phrases appear many times within a song, which supports vocabulary retention and grammar recall. You can pause, replay, or sing along to reinforce what you learn without relying solely on rote memorization.

Music also brings in informal language often absent from formal lessons. It introduces expressions, slang, and colloquial verbs that add variety to your Spanish vocabulary. As a result, you gain both formal and conversational language skills that strengthen your overall language proficiency.

Practical Strategies and Cultural Insights for Using Music to Improve Spanish Listening

Music trains your ear to recognize accents, patterns, and word flow more naturally. It builds listening accuracy while also giving you a window into Spanish-speaking cultures through rhythm, lyrics, and themes.

Selecting Effective Spanish Songs and Artists

Start with songs that match your skill level. Slower, clear tracks work best for beginners since they allow you to catch each phrase. Choose artists with distinct pronunciation such as Shakira, Juanes, or Jesse & Joy. Their songs often include storytelling elements that help you learn Spanish with songs naturally.

As your understanding grows, move to faster styles like despacito by Luis Fonsi or upbeat salsa by Marc Anthony, such as Vivir Mi Vida. This gradual shift improves your listening confidence. Regional music also broadens your ear—try Colombian pop, Puerto Rican reggaeton, or Mexican ballads. Aim for a mix of genres like Latin pop music and traditional folk.

Keep a small playlist categorized by speed or theme. This practice helps you control difficulty while maintaining variety. A few repeats of a familiar song often teach more than several new tracks played at once.

Analyzing Lyrics and Leveraging Music Videos

Follow lyrics closely to connect sound and meaning. Print them or view them digitally, then underline new words or highlight grammar patterns. Listening first and reading later trains your ear to focus before confirming with text.

Music videos offer strong context clues. They show gestures, culture, and settings that support word meaning. A video of a song about love, celebration, or loss often mirrors the tone you hear. Watching these details helps link emotion and vocabulary in your mind.

Interactive lyric tools and practice platforms provide controlled listening tasks. Try to fill in missing words, pause after each line, or repeat difficult phrases aloud. This repetition improves retention. Over time, you will recognize common expressions and rhythm differences between regions such as Cuba or Colombia.

Integrating Music in Daily Study Routines

Set aside short music sessions each day. Even five minutes of focused listening can sharpen your ear. Use simple exercises, like shadowing lyrics or repeating lines without a transcript. That habit builds smooth pronunciation and natural rhythm.

Create themed days to stay consistent. One day might focus on pop, another on salsa, and another on older hits. Singing along may sound awkward at first, but it helps you catch pronunciation details that reading alone cannot teach.

Digital tools can help structure your sessions. For example, listen to one song repeatedly across the week while you study related vocabulary. The brain retains patterns best through small, repeated input rather than long, irregular sessions.

Fostering Cultural Understanding Through Spanish Music

Songs reflect real aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures and social values. By exploring lyrics from Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Colombia, you gain a clearer picture of traditions, humor, and community life. Music tells stories of migration, love, and pride that go beyond textbook examples.

Compare themes across regions. Romantic pop in Spain may contrast with salsa rhythms from the Caribbean. Noticing these differences builds cultural understanding and improves listening flexibility.

Pay attention to bilingual tracks that mix Spanish and English. They mirror what you often hear in modern Latin pop music. Understanding such songs prepares you for real conversations that shift naturally between languages. Through this approach, you connect language learning with authentic cultural experience instead of memorized vocabulary lists.

Conclusion

Music connects language to real-life sounds and rhythms. By listening to Spanish songs, you train your ear to notice tones, accents, and patterns that textbooks often miss. These small details help you understand how native speakers actually sound in daily conversation.

You gain more than just practice with vocabulary. Songs introduce you to natural expressions and common sentence structures. As a result, your listening skills become sharper and more intuitive over time.

To make the most of this approach, choose songs that match your level of Spanish and focus on short, clear lyrics. Repeat them often, and pay attention to how words flow together. This habit keeps your brain active and makes new phrases easier to remember.

Music-based lessons offer both variety and enjoyment, which keeps you more consistent in your study routine. You not only hear Spanish—you experience it in context and emotion. Over time, that consistent exposure builds stronger listening skills and a deeper sense of language confidence.

9LOOKS | DIOR

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LOOKS | Dior in mag.

SOULFUL SOUNDS | JJ JULIUS SON

This month our NOV ISSUE #119 is cover star Grammy Nominated singer/songwriter, and producer JJ Julius Son of KALEO. We have enjoyed the blues/rock band that is known for their hit song, Way Down We Go. In addition to his touring around the world, making new music, and staying inspired, this creative is also involved in an array of collaborations that continue to expand his brand and entrepreneurial interests.

We sat down with him to talk about his latest album, Mixed Emotions, his creative process, upcoming music performances, his recent drop of his wine Hot Blood with Maison Wessman, his cigar with Kingmakers, and his jewelry and hat collab with Clocks + Colours.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first song that made you fall in love with music?

JJ JULIUS SON: That’s a really good question, but hard to tell. I mean, I can’t say that I probably remember much, you know just being, I guess, very young in being affected by music - all the way from the Disney songs and through my upbringing, you know? My father is a big Beatles fan. I think that has affected me quite a bit, you know? So, yeah, I would like to say that I’m grateful for my parent’s music tastes in general, so I think that that is important and helps as well.

AM: When did you first connect with music in terms of starting to play instruments? We always love when we hear that someone’s a singer-songwriter, and they also play instruments.

JJJS: I think it was kind of dabbling. We did have a piano at home and then around 7 or 8, started studying thanks to my mom. She helped me do lessons and you know, like everyone else, I just studied classical music, which was great, but I think you know, reading music, obviously helps, you learn to get familiar with the instrument, but once I really started like playing stuff that I was hearing on the radio and more so playing by ear is when I think I really connected with that being something. It’s like a new dimension, I think when you really are able to express something from within, rather than playing sheet music from paper.

AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be a musician?

JJJS: I’m still realizing, I guess! It isn’t really something that you kind of set out to do for a living. I come from a place where I’m a realist, and it’s very rare that anybody can live off music, and it is for sure a challenge still. Especially in this day and age.

AM: Oh yeah.

JJJS: You know, being a musician, it was not really something that I set out to do. I mean, I was signed up for the University twice, but that’s exactly when things started getting busy, and I’ve kind of been on this roller coaster for about a decade now ever since we moved to the US. I guess I got serious about music around my Early 20s, I would say. But I mean, not really. I don’t know how to explain how it really became serious, but the income, I guess, was sufficient enough to live off of it. Then things just happened really, really fast, and it’s kind of a snowball that’s, you know, kept rolling since then.

AM: We remember when we first heard the song, Way Down We Go. It was such a visceral reaction to this song that had the perfect blues rock aesthetic to it. There are a number of elements to love about the song. How did you guys come together as a band?

JJJS: The majority - like 3 of us, we were in school together in this small town that we’re from outside of Reykjavik in Iceland. It’s called Mosfellsbaer, and it’s a 20-30 minute drive from the capitol. It’s kind of in the countryside, a small town. We have a different school system, but it was like a high school and we were there together. I’d been writing songs for a while, and we started jamming together. I said that we should start a band and we’re still here.

So my bass player and my drummer, we’ve been together since we were 18 and we were in school together since we were 14.

AM: Oh wow, that’s very cool!

JJJS: So it’s very cool and it has been a long time. I think what brought us together is really just the joint interest of just loving classic rock in general. Which I would say comes from our parents because they were born in the 50s and 60s. When you think of 60s music, it’s rock and that was everything they would listen to and I think that we were affected by that.

AM: What would you say the Kaleo sound is if you had to define it?

JJJS: Well, hopefully, not a distinctive sound. I hope to be evolving and growing, but I mean, if I had to name genres and influences - I think Blues is a good one. I love Soul music. I think my classical background kind of comes through in my arrangement when I’m arranging strings and orchestras and stuff. So, I think I take inspirations from everything. It’s just like, art in general. It’s when it makes you feel something is when I’m affected, and I can get obsessed with really anything if it makes me feel something. I take inspiration from a lot of stuff. I love Cuban music, Reggae music, and I think it’s about trying to explore a little bit more. Recently, I’ve been dabbling with Disco and Reggae on the last few albums. There’s a there’s a a bunch of stuff that I do want to explore. I think it’s important to keep evolving. I don’t like doing the same thing every time, so all my albums are quite dynamic. If you have to describe the sound, I would hope that maybe the word dynamic would would come up, like at our live shows. I like to make waves. I prefer to have dynamics within the music and everything.

AM: Going back to Way Down We Go, what was the process in creating that iconic song? There’s everything in the song that’s just so right, but how was it to bring it all of the components together as it seems so intricate?

JJJS: Yeah, not really. To me, it’s kind of just like a Blues song. I wrote it like an acapella Blues song. It’s definitely like many of my songs, I just take my time to craft it.

AM: Right.

JJJS: The intro, for example, I didn’t add until the song was ready. I said that I really wanted an intro on it and I added it later. It was this string version and piano part in the beginning - so it’s kind of layered. But, I think in general, I would say it’s kind of like a very Mississippi Blues song that we just went to the studio and I had it with this strong drum and bass sound which is almost like a Hip-Hop thing which I enjoy as well. You know, for me, I like the 90s Hip-Hop stuff, which is still just like sampling some really good James Brown drums and stuff. So there are elements and it has proven itself over and over again that a really good song can kind of be played in so many ways. So that’s always the challenge. I mean, I find songwriting very natural and kind of easy, and one of my favorite things to do is just writing songs because you can be just playful with it. And it kind of comes natural, but then you have to put on your producer hat and you can take it in so many ways, so that’s kind of the challenge every time.

AM: Well, you also filmed the video for this song in a volcano! Who thought of that and what was that like, like? I can’t even imagine storyboarding that concept and bringing it to life!

JJJS: That was great and it was one of our first videos. We tend to do these live performance videos out in nature, like we did the Colosseum last year and I was able to go in there. That’s one of my favorite things to do. It’s kind of like performance art because, you know, we’re either going in these special locations in our home country, in nature - we played on Glacier Lagoon on an iceberg and this macro chamber - the volcano. It was amazing. I mean, the reverb in general was just really special for the echo in. I think that’s kind of the biggest part sonically of that video. These are usually challenging. We have to find sources for electricity and everything.

AM: Right.

JJJS: We are playing it live. Thankfully, I think Nat Geo - National Geographic, they had already installed some electricity down there, so we were able to make use of that for the amplifiers and stuff. It takes a long time. It took us about 24 hours just to get the drum set down there and all the crew and people. It’s a small elevator that goes down into that chamber. It takes about 10 minutes each ride and only holds about five people.

AM: Oh my God!

JJJS: It’s always an adventure! It’s one of my favorite things to do. I hope we can keep doing those videos. It’s really something that I enjoy.

AM: As a singer/songwriter, and producer, where do you start creatively in the process when it comes to creating your music?

JJJS: I try not to force it at all. It’s kind of like, you know, whether it’s playing piano, getting into a flow state - obviously guitar, it’s become my main instrument these days. It’s easy when you’re traveling this much and touring. It can be as simple as driving around, and you kind of get an idea or this melody in your head. I think for me, it’s kind of melody first. I enjoy lyrics, obviously. I kind of have to enjoy the melody to get excited about stuff, so that’s my priority. It’s really different for me. Sometimes, especially with the narrative, you’re making up a story in your mind. It could be a western - Spaghetti Western - a whole movie in your head, and you’re making it up or sometimes, you’re actually talking about a personal experience, you know? Or sometimes, you actually want to get political and direct. I like those things the same with the music. I like doing different things and that’s the same with the narrative and the lyrics. The storytelling can be daydreaming or you actually have something to say. I think it’s nice to be able to do both.

AM: Obviously, you’re constantly creating music, and going to amazing venues. You just dropped Mixed Emotions this summer and performed at Red Rocks and BottleRock in Napa. Tell us about this album, which we’ve enjoyed listening to it, but would love to hear more about it from you.

JJJS: Yeah, it’s just interesting, you know, being a musician today, still making albums. I don’t know if it’s really a mainstream thing anymore. It seems like we’ve almost gone back to the 40s and 50s, where singles are kind of the thing which is cool, but I definitely come from a place where I still have the R\romantic idea of a concept album, and I still enjoy making albums. So, I’m one of those artists and I really do put a lot of myself into each and every one. So it takes me a while. It’s usually like 3, 4 or 5 years to make an album. So, it’s an interesting time like I said for being that kind of artist in today’s day and age. It really means a lot when people connect with it. I’m just really thankful for being able to do this. And, like, you said, you know, we get to travel the world, and you know, it’s one of the most. I guess the gratitude, and like the most satisfaction, is really when you put out this music, and then you go visit places and there’s thousands of people that know your songs, and they sing them back to you. It’s truly special. For us, when you go to a country like Turkey for the first time and 8,000 people are singing your songs, so I don’t really know if if there’s a bigger high than that.

I do love albums, and I want to continue making them. You know, I would love obviously to go mainstream again, but I can’t promise you that it will, but it’s something that you know, I just really enjoy. So I’m gonna just continue focusing on that.

AM: You’re constantly on tour. Are there things that you enjoy doing before you hit the stage, to get into the right headspace? Are there things that you do once you come off stage after having all of that energy and excitement just to put yourself back to a neutral level?

JJJS: For sure. I have been doing this for a long time now. It took me awhile to just get used to the tour life. I mean, your immune system - it took me years to kind of grow stamina for that kind of lifestyle, because it is, you’re on the road a lot. You’re flying a lot, you know? So, yeah, it took me a couple years for my immune system to get adjusted. You kind of get addicted to going on stage with that adrenaline and the dopamine. So, I guess the challenge is kind of coming off stage, because sometimes you’re going on late, and then you have to, try to go to bed on a rolling bus, which can be challenging.

AM: Exactly

JJJS: My routine before I go on stage is obviously, I’m a singer so, I have to warm up properly and take care of my instrument and everything. So that’s kind of a routine and I’m a routine guy because I like the structure which helps me quite a bit. So there’s nothing that I go that superstitious or anything.

AM: Just a regular guy here!

JJJS: Right! I make sure I get my food 2 hours before, so I don’t have acid reflux or anything. It’s just basic stuff, but it’s also like I sometimes use that time when I’m warming up, getting ready for a show and I can use it to get into a flow state and just write if I’m in the mood.

AM: Well, during this time of year, even though we’re excited about the Holiday season, we also start thinking about the upcoming Spring and Summer in terms of festivals and concerts. Are there any that we can let our community at Athleisure Mag know about?

JJJS: Great question. We’re kind of taking a break for the first time in, like 3.5 years.

AM: Oh wow.

JJJS: We’ve kind of been just rolling since the pandemic. So, I know that we will be doing a big tour in America and Europe next year. But I’m going to try to kind of use the first couple months of the year and get back into the studio and writing some stuff. We didn’t really get a chance with the new album this year when it came out in terms of doing a big tour. We did do Red Rocks and several shows.

I’m excited to be able to take the new songs on the road.

AM: Here at Athleisure Mag, we’re always interested to hear about workouts or studio fitness that our favorites are doing that we could incorporate into our fitness routines. What do you do to stay in shape?

JJJS: I’m a big Fitness guy actually. I mean, I lift weights since I, I was a big soccer fan and a soccer player when I was growing up, just like everyone in Iceland. When I quit soccer around 16, you know, I decided not to go professional, and I switched to music a lot. I started lifting weights. I like to get away for an hour or 90 minutes a day, and it’s kind of helped me a lot, especially on the road. It’s more like, meditating for me. I kind of get to do my own thing away from everyone and it’s something I really enjoy and it has changed a lot. I remember, like, 12 years ago, starting out it was sometimes hard to find gyms, but now thankfully, every hotel has a gym. It’s very easy to find and I would say that I do this every day pretty much.

AM: We know that you enjoy fine wine, and now you have one of your latest projects with Maison Wessman with Hot Blood. How did this come together, and what was that process like for you?

JJJS: I enjoyed wine for a long time. When it comes to spirits, I think it’s just the most romantic one. There’s something really romantic about wine. Technically, you could grow wine in a greenhouse, but it’s not very sexy. It’s very romantic to obviously do it in France or Italy or whatever it is and they’ve been doing that for thousands of years. So it’s always something I’ve enjoyed, and I like growing my palette and trying different things. So I like to try wine when I’m in different countries.

This kind of fell into my lap. They reached out to me about 2 years ago and I was obviously intrigued. So, I went out there and I got to be involved in making the blends. Robert, he’s owned this place for about 20 years. I mean, it’s very surreal and basically, has a castle from the 1100s in the South of France. I think it’s the third oldest castle in France. So, it’s really something special and it’s easy to fall in love, with that region and the whole saga of it all. And then it turns out, you know, that me and Robert have become really good friends, and he’s from the same hometown as me.

AM: Which is amazing.

JJJS: Yeah, which our hometown is honestly very, very small, so we connected over that and we connected over music. He’s been a fan of the band for a long time. We’ve played for him several times including his wedding a while ago and everything. This is the first time that we really got to know each other. To find out that we’re more connected than we even thought, is amazing.

AM: That definitely had to be a surprise especially because of the size of your town!

JJJS: Yeah, truly! He’s doing amazing things in his field. We’re doing very different things, but we obviously connect over music and wine. This is a huge passion of his as well, and it was so easy to say yes. After I got to know him and see that, you know, he’s kind of like me. I mean, he’s an all or nothing kind of a guy. He puts his heart in the things that he does, so it’s really enjoyable. I think we’re gonna make more wine and he’s been supporting us in a lot of things. Both of us are kind of like supporting our soccer team in our hometown right now. That’s also grown into something that we’re both trying to help out as well. So it’s really cool.

AM: That’s amazing. How long did it take to bring these wines forward from, concepting it to being able for us to enjoy it.

JJJS: Honestly, not long. I mean, you know, we chose, we did blind tasting, and we both picked the blends that we liked, and we had very similar tastes. So that was a really fun process. Then you know, just coming up with ideas. We have this fun thing where I have a QR code on the bottle. There’s a teaser, to the song that I have, which is called One More Glass of Wine and I haven’t recorded it yet. So it’s fun that they have pre-access to the song. We’re, trying to come up with fun stuff like that.

Then I call the better bottles, Raven’s Blood and White Raven. And the Raven is kind of like a very strong Nordic mythology in Iceland. It’s really fun. I enjoyed that process as well, so I’m thankful to have the creative access to also be very involved in all that stuff.

AM: So basically, right now, there are 4 bottles that people can enjoy. That’s amazing. And can you tell us because you told us a little bit about White Raven and Raven Blood. What are the other two bottles like?

JJJS: Basically, we would consider them to be the top shelf that we do, because the Raven Blood and White Raven, both of them - we do oak for them for 11 to 18 months. So you kind of get more flavor and more prestige, I would say. But in general, the Hot Blood and the White Blood, bottles, we have a little bit of Malbec in the red wine. They’re kind of meant to be, an easy drinking wine.

AM: Right.

JJJS: I think it pairs well with food, obviously. I just really wanted to make a very affordable wine, but still, great wine. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the region, Bergerac in the South of France. It’s next to Bordeaux. I don’t think people know that it’s basically the same soil as the Bordeaux wines.

AM: Oh wow!

JJJS: Yeah. So, it’s kind of like a hidden secret. People are very like familiar with it in France, but I think that outside of France, they don’t and, and it’s just such a beautiful area. We’ve talked about maybe doing a Harvest Festival out there, hopefully maybe next year. It’s fun to be able to bring attention to the region and everything.

AM: That sounds great! I know you were recently in Bergerac, Maison Wessman’s estate to taste and blend the wines. What was that, like, and what did you learn from that hands-on experience?

JJJS: It’s really special. I get to go there at least once a year. You know, you do the blends for every vintage and everything. It’s tough to beat. Especially being from Iceland, you know, we have 8 months of Winter going out there in the Fall or in the Spring is truly nice as the weather is nice, obviously. It’s a beautiful place and it’s just really fun. It’s really interesting to visit the wineries around there, and it’s just totally a different world. The people are so engaged, and crafting this thing that is wine that they have been just doing for, you know, generation after generation, which is really impressive. It’s really fun to be a small part of it.

AM: You’re a phenomenal artist and you have this wine company that you’re involved which that’s amazing. In preparation for this interview, we know that you’re truly an entrepreneur who’s expanding his portfolio, because you have your collaboration with Kingmakers. How did this come about and what do you love about cigars?

JJJS: That’s another thing that I’ve kind of enjoyed for a long time. I can’t say that, I’m a purist when it comes to cigars. I mean, there are definitely people who have, you know, smoked several a day and everything. That’s not my style. It’s kind of more like the same way I treat alcohol, you know? It’s, more of a celebration or a thing I like to do when I’m, just enjoying life and when I’m taking some time for myself. That’s kind of the same with cigars. I’ve never smoke cigarettes. Never done any drugs or anything, but it’s kind of like something that I’ve enjoyed through people that I met. A cigar is more like a dessert to me. It’s really something that I enjoy, and I like pairing it with wine, or you know, tequila, or something.

Yeah, that’s another thing. Like, I said, there’s also just like the romance of it. The Cubans, for generations have been rolling it and it’s part of their lifestyle. It’s just really fun. Being a guy from Iceland and same with the music. You know, people would probably argue, you know, that, I play the Blues - this African-American thing, and I’m here from a small island in in the North Atlantic Ocean, you know?

I’m kind of tapping into these other worlds just being. You know, tapping into this this world of, you know, Southern France with the wine or the, cigars are made in Nicaragua. It’s just really enjoyable, you know, and it fits well with what I’m doing musically, just taking, you know, tapping into these different genres and music that comes from all over the world. right? At the end of the day, what makes a great musician? I would say, first and foremost, is just the fact that you’re a fan – actually, it’s your taste in music. The reason you want to write this kind of song or approach anything is, I think, to begin with, you know. It’s because you, like, whatever you do, like and it comes down to your taste. You have to make a choice when you’re writing and making music as well. There’s so many options. You have to limit it down and make a choice, so I think it all comes down to your taste in general. I guess there’s similarities with what I’m doing with the wine and cigars and then the music in that way.

AM: You have great style. You can see it when you’re looking through your IG seeing your jewelry and tapestry pieces for your outfits, etc. Going back to collaborations, you have one with Clocks and Colours. Why did you want to do that, and how did that come about?

JJJS: That was kind of the one of the first, collabs that I indulged in. I have always been - my mom calls me a peacock. I have always enjoyed jewelry and nice clothing. It’s a creative outlet for me and it’s that creative force that I can also connect with. It finds its way to the music, the wine, and the cigars.

In terms of the style part, it’s fun, it’s living and I can take inspiration because I get to travel this much. So again, I get to hear when I go abroad, and I go to these new places. The first thing I do is, I ask the locals to show me some traditional music, because I think that’s so strong. The same same for Icelandic music. We’ve been living here for 1100 years or something, which is a miracle on its own, especially without electricity back in the day. Some of the traditional stuff like the music lives on so strongly. But at the same time, there’s the food, music and then style. So that’s that’s another kind of creative outlet. Living in the US a lot for the last decade is also fun seeing young people kind of going back to the old – handmade and crafting. So that kind of just really been fun. And I’ve gotten to meet so many people that are doing amazing things.

AM: When it comes to collaborating in general, what is it that you look for in terms of synergies between yourself and the interested brand?

JJJS: I mean, I would say it has to feel authentic. Those are the things that I seek out to work with or friends or people that are true to their art. I just know what it takes, especially being a musician myself. I know the time that goes into having an idea and the final outcome, there’s a long way especially for me. It has to be something that makes sense for me and if it’s a product, I need to be able to stand behind it or that I would wear it. I’ve said no to a lot of things. I just don’t really believe in putting your face or your handprint on something that you know isn’t right.

AM: Last year, you played yourself on The Bold and the Beautiful. Many of our readers and community grew up watching The Bold and the Beautiful. What was that like, and will we see you acting in the future?

JJJS: Yeah, it was fun. It was insane, like my grandma would watch that show! It was more fun than anything else. They were so nice and it was so interesting being on that show. I can’t believe how they memorize their lines and everything. I was struggling with just what I had to do! It was enjoyable to see people in that field. I think it has to be one of the best schools for an actor to do. I mean they’re shooting several episodes a day. It was very impressive to see how it all came together. It was more fun than anything else. I can’t say that I consider myself to be an actor to take other people’s work. I would probably dabble more with writing or directing. I do love movies and it’s kind of like music to me – in some ways I think that it is starting to become a lost art. They’re not as many movies being made and obviously, the movie theaters are going out of business. It’s the same with album sales and we’re in the same boat in a way.

I have always loved movies and I grew up loving Batman and James Bond and I would get totally obsessed with these things. Having met some directors, I connected with them in a lot of ways. Because I write all my music on my own and produce it and everything - I’m very Hands-On, so I definitely connect with some directors in that way. If I have the option in the future, I would love to to be involved in in some way, but not as an actor. I respect actors a lot and I think it’s phenomenal when people can do that on a high level.

AM: You’re always traveling. And when you’re back home in Iceland, what would we find you doing when you’re just taking time away from the projects that you’re working on?

JJJS: Coming home, especially being from Iceland, it’s such a small community and a small country that when you live abroad, you quickly find that it’s just something that really has a pull to come back. My whole family, and friends are here. I enjoy coming back when I have the time, to see my people, my friends, etc. We go snowmobiling on the glaciers or we go into the Highlands. It’s truly a unique country and we take it for granted sometimes. I have made friends all over the world now. I just came from Rome. I’m a Godfather to my friend’s son in Rome. So, I get to meet all these people around the world that I love. I still love bringing them to Iceland and one of the big things is truly just introducing them to all my friends and family here. I have a really strong relationship with my folks back here.

AM: Are there any upcoming projects in general that we should keep an eye out for that you know you want us to know about?

JJJS: I mean, yeah, we’re gonna go do a very special show in Iceland, actually. Last year, we played a show in Iceland. That was the first one we did in 10 years, and we did it in this forest in the North, and now we are going to do this once in a lifetime event in our national park that’s usually off limits. People don’t really do events there, but we’ve been able to persuade them to let us do this event. We’re hoping to do a big, show there. It would be great to bring other Icelandic artists and do this very unique event, so that’ll be next summer, In Iceland in the National Park. The national park is located in between the two tectonic plates - the European and the American, so we’re basically in between the 2 continents, so it’s very special.

AM: That sounds amazing.

I mean, when you think about your legacy, what do you want people to walk away, thinking about?

JJJS: I guess, my goal to be very honest is just making timeless music that can live on. I’m first and foremost, just such a fan, of music, and great art that has been made in the past. It’s really something I live for. I strive to hopefully, have my own imprint on that and then make something that’s worthwhile and can live on. I try to make music that you can listen to now or in 50 years. That’s kind of the goal - quality over quantity.

@julius_son

@officialkaleo

PHOTO CREDIT | FRONT/BACK COVER, PG 16 - 37 + 44 - 51 Justin Pagano | PG 38 - 43 Jon From Iceland |

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see SOULFUL SOUNDS | JJ JULIUS SON in mag.

SMALL DESIGN CHOICES THAT MAKE YOU SPEND MORE TIME OUTSIDE

What do you do when you step outside in your backyard? Why do you even go out there? To drink coffee? Have a breath of fresh air?

If you're back inside after 10 minutes, the space doesn't feel good enough to stay.

You could say your outdoor space failed because it did.

Not in any kind of obvious dramatic way, but in details, like a chair that gets too hot, the sun hits your eyes at the wrong angle, the mosquitoes think lunch is served, the step down feels like a fight with gravity, etc. These aren't exactly problems with design; however, they control how long you stay outside.

People like to think that being outside more has to do with discipline or motivation, but it doesn't. It comes down to friction, so the easier the space is to use, the longer you want to stay there.

If you'd like to make some small changes in your backyard that will make it more enjoyable, read on.

Small Tweaks That Make You Stay Outside Longer

Here's how to be comfortable outside instead of wanting to run back inside the house.

Handle the Climate

Climate is a huge factor because where you live changes what outdoor comfort means.

For example, Pennsylvania has seasonal mosquito activity and evenings that cool down faster, so the design has to reflect that.

Ask anyone, from an outdoor living contractor in Chambersburg PA, to a random old lady in Philadelphia, and they'll tell you that you need a screen and maybe a fire to be fully comfortable.

You don't want mosquitoes, flies, no-see-ums, or sting bugs (ew!) ruining your every dinner. Get a screen on your deck/porch. And if you want that super fancy place where you can hang out with your friends in the evening, a smokeless fire pit is always a great option.

In states like Florida, where you'd struggle with heat and humidity, you'd want an open layout and opposing openings to keep humidity from becoming too heavy. Plus shade, misting systems, ceiling/patio fans – all these options would be preferred to screens and firepits.

So your outdoor options (and wants) really depend on your climate.

Surfaces That Don't Overheat or Get Slippery

How the ground feels under your feet has a bigger impact on comfort and safety than you realize.

Surfaces that absorb and hold heat make it impossible to walk barefoot, and they shorten the time you like to stand or move around.

Slick surfaces aren't ideal, either, because they're downright dangerous after rain or overnight dew. You want something neutral, that doesn't get hot or slippery, and that doesn't prevent you from wanting to be outside.

Look for a slightly textured surface that's light in color, that's about as neutral as it gets.

Shade Where You Like to Sit

One of the fastest ways to get tired of being outside is sitting in direct sunlight, even during winter.

If there's glare, it's impossible to relax or hold a conversation, and once the seat heats up, who even wants to stay? Plus, too much sun exposure (UV radiation) isn't good for you.

What you want is shade, preferably somewhere you like to sit. And it shouldn't be the kind of shade that works only at noon; you need it to do its job at all times of day.

Easy Transitions

Every single step and doorway adds a small amount of friction and effort.

One by one, those moments reduce spontaneous trips outside because you don't want to bother with any of it. If getting to your backyard is almost a process, you won't do it unless you have something planned.

Wide openings and minimal changes in level make outdoor spaces feel like a natural extension of your house, and stepping outside becomes effortless.

Gentle Lighting

Leave harsh lighting for the dentist's office; you don't want it anywhere near your backyard. When it comes to outdoor spaces, lighting should be even and soft. That means, no bright overhead lights or poorly placed lights that don't let you see where you're stepping.

Get softer lights that are spread out lower to the ground.

They'll help you see everything you need to without overstimulating anyone.

Visual Separation

If you feel like your neighbors are watching you, you won't want to spend time outside.

Another issue with a completely open space is that it keeps your attention outward, regardless of what you're trying to do.

Get partial visual barriers, like changes in height or direction, to reduce that awkward sense of exposure without closing everything off.

Room to Shift

Nobody likes to sit perfectly still for long periods of time; it's not comfortable.

And if the space is tight, you can't even stretch your legs or stand up without it feeling weird. Your backyard should allow you to move around without bumping into things; otherwise, you'll get restless.

Conclusion

Nobody thinks they use their outdoor space enough, probably because they don't. You're probably one of those people, too. Have you ever stopped to wonder why?

Most likely, because it takes effort to enjoy it, so why not think about what it is that bothers you and work on it?

As you have seen, it doesn't take a lot of work or money to have a backyard you love spending time in.

RECOVERY HACKS YOUR ROUTINE HAS BEEN MISSING

Recovery Hacks Your Routine Has Been Missing

True wellness is not just about pushing harder, running faster or lifting more. It is also about the quieter moments, the ones where your body resets, your mind clears and your energy returns. Recovery is where real progress happens, yet so many routines leave it overlooked or rushed. With a few thoughtful changes, you can transform your downtime into a powerful part of your health journey.

Here are the recovery hacks your routine may be missing but absolutely needs.

1.    Restore With the Warmth of Wood Fire Heated Hydrotherapy

Heat is one of the most effective tools for recovery, and using it in a way that feels natural can elevate the experience. Soaking in wood fire heated hot tubs offers a therapeutic warmth that relaxes muscles and calms the mind. The crackling fire, the rising steam and the organic heat create a sensory retreat that helps tension melt away. This is more than a soak. It is a ritual your nervous system will thank you for.

2.    Introduce Gentle Mobility First Thing in the Morning

Before emails, errands or workouts, give your body a few minutes of mobility. Slow circles for your joints, a gentle spinal twist or a short stretch sequence can improve blood flow and reduce stiffness. These small movements set the tone for a smoother, more energized day.

3.    Hydrate More Effectively by Adding Electrolytes

Plain water is essential, but sometimes your body needs more. Adding electrolytes, especially after exercise or during stressful days, helps replenish minerals lost through sweat. This simple upgrade improves muscle recovery and reduces fatigue.

4.    Swap Late Night Scrolling for a Soothing Wind Down Ritual

Your recovery routine should include your mind. Instead of ending your day with bright screens, try a calming ritual. Light a candle, journal for five minutes or do a short breathing exercise. These habits help your body signal that it is time to rest, allowing deeper and more restorative sleep.

5.    Make Soft Tissue Release Part of Your Weekly Routine

A foam roller, massage ball or even a warm bath can release tension stored in muscles. Targeting tight areas improves flexibility, reduces soreness and helps prevent injury. The key is consistency, not intensity. Just five minutes can make a noticeable difference.

6.    Fuel Your Body with Foods That Help You Repair

Post-workout meals should do more than satisfy hunger. They should support recovery. Lean proteins, colorful vegetables, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates give your muscles what they need to rebuild. Thoughtful nutrition keeps your energy high and your inflammation low.

7.    Create Tech-Free Pockets Throughout Your Day

Your mind needs breaks just as much as your body does. Small pauses without screens, even two minutes, can reduce stress levels and help you stay grounded. Try stepping outside, taking a few deep breaths or closing your eyes for a moment. These micro breaks improve your ability to focus and recharge.

8.    Prioritize Sleep Like It Is Part of Your Training Plan

Recovery cannot happen without rest. Quality sleep supports muscle repair, hormone balance and mental clarity. Create a routine that honors your sleep, blocking out noisy distractions, keeping your room dark and easing into calm before bed. Treat sleep as a commitment to your wellbeing.

9.    Celebrate Small Wins to Support Motivation

Recovery is also emotional. Acknowledging your progress, celebrating your consistency and appreciating your efforts help reinforce a positive relationship with wellness. This mindset makes healthy routines feel rewarding rather than demanding.

Final Inspiration

Recovery is not a pause in your journey. It is a vital part of moving forward. By embracing warm hydrotherapy, mindful habits and small upgrades to your daily routine, you transform recovery into something restorative, intentional and deeply enjoyable. Give your body and mind the space they need, and watch how everything else improves.

KINDNESS MATTERS | CHEF KRISTEN KISH

We have been fans of the Bravo’s Top Chef universe since day 1 and it comes down to a number of factors including: telling a story on a plate, the chefs actual stories, and in many cases even visting their restaurants. It has grown into a network of alums that we enjoy seeing again and again whether they’re on TV, doing a phenomenal project or popping in to eat their latest creation.

Avid readers and the Athleisure Mag community know that we have interviewed S10 Top Chef winner, Chef Kristen Kish a number of times whether it’s a fun partnership/collaboration, various shows she has been a part of or for our MAR ISSUE #99 cover story with her alongside Chef Tom Colicchio, Gail Simmons of Top Chef when she took the reigns as host of Top Chef starting S21. She loves the journey of food and the chefs that are involved, she’s always asking questions, and gives words of wisdom that can really be applicable to whatever it is you do in life!

This month, we catch up with her to talk about the upcoming season of Top Chef, S23 in the Carolinas, joining the cast of Peacock’s S4 of Traitors, why being kind matters and her partnership with KIND for the CHOOSE KIND campaign, holiday dishes, gifting, and more!

CHEF KRISTIN KISH: Hello! It’s so nice to see you again!

ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s so nice to see you again! Well, we’re always so excited anytime we get the chance to chat with you, because you’re always doing amazing things. The last time we saw you, that’s when you were our cover for Athleisure Mag right before you hosted your first season of Top Chef which was phenomenal! Now, you have so many things going on, so it will be great to chat with you.

CHEF KK: Likewise, thanks!

AM: So, looking forward to S23 of Top Chef, you’re going to be be in the Carolinas which is amazing – what has it been like for you to be on Top Chef as the host?

CHEF KK: I mean, it’s like, the greatest job. I have very little complaints. I think that the only the only thing that was the most challenging this past season was, you know, the Carolina humidity, which we were certainly prepared for. But other than that, I mean, I, I love making Top Chef. I love spending time with all the chefs that we have coming in to dine with us. It’s a really great quick 2-month crash course in a location, introducing you to new people, and then also hearing from so many people amongst the industry or even not! But just like how other people think and talk about food, I think it’s just - it’s incredible!

AM: Amazing. We know you can’t talk too much about the upcoming season, but what can you share with us that we should be looking forward to?

CHEF KK: I mean, come on – every season is just the best. It’s great chefs, it’s great food, and honest feedback. And you know, I think one of my favorite things to do is - I mean, I love watching the show, but because we don’t get to see the chefs thought process.

AM: Right!

CHEF KK: You know all those interviews, and in the kitchen scenes, we don’t see any of that.

AM: Yeah.

CHEF KK: The only time we see them is when they’re in front of us, and so I always get really excited, and I look forward to getting the whole story and the whole picture.

AM: You’re like, wait, that’s what happened.

CHEF KK: Yeah, I’ve tasted the food, but I don’t know sometimes how they’ve fully arrived.

AM: We also love the companion series Dish with Kish. The format is really interesting how elements of the challenge from the episode as well as working with Top Chef alums in each episode are presented in the series! We just interviewed, Chef Gregory Gourdet (Top Chef S12 Runner-up, S17 Finalist) last month, during the Food Network NYC Wine Food Festival. He was so kind and sweet. We’ve never been able to talk to him before, but it’s always fun to watch him with you on this companion series as you guys have great chemistry together!

As soon as we finish the night’s episode on Bravo, we go to Peacock and start off with Last Chance Kitchen with Chef Tom Colicchio to see how eliminated players fight there way back to get on the show and then we end it by savoring Dish with Kish!

Why do you love having this companion series?

CHEF KK: You know, I think it, it’s just - it’s obviously Top Chef related, where we’re pulling inspiration from that challenge. You know, we’re getting to see some of your favorite Top Chef alums in the kitchen again, cooking. You know, it’s no rules. As you see, the entire set is fair game. It is as if you were in the kitchen with me, albeit I’m in full glam, which I normally wouldn’t be.

AM: The looks you rock in those episodes as well as in the flagship show are always amazing every time – you don’t miss.

CHEF KK: Thank you.

But it’s like, it’s like a fly on the wall moment.

AM: Yeah.

CHEF KK: You get to see real interactions and the time that is spent with sometimes Top Chef alums that I have known for many years, like Gregory, and who we are deeply like, wonderful friends or me being introduced to a new Top Chef alum that I know very little about because I just haven’t had the time to interact. So, I mean, it’s just it’s fun. It’s 11 - 15 minutes of whatever. It’s my kind of TV.

AM: Love it!

You mentioned that shooting this competition series takes place over a 2 month period. How do you take on a show like that in terms of preparation? Clearly, you’re immersed in this environment, but how do you get your mind ready for it before you step into that abyss?

CHEF KK: You know, I think it’s a great abyss to be in. So, like, you know, there’s not a lot of like pumping myself up. I think the the first year that I was hosting, I had definitely more like internal personal work to work on.

AM: Yeah.

CHEF KK: Because I was really wrapping my brain around the pressure that I was putting on myself.

AM: Of course.

CHEF KK: But come Canada and now, obviously, the Carolinas like, you know, I go in a couple days before it. I like to go see the set. I like to get my bearings. I like to unpack and like organize space, equals organize mind. For me, really, the preparation is oftentimes the morning of, so whatever call time, my time is, I need my quiet, introverted recharge battery time. So, I wake up 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours before, no matter what. Even if it’s crazy early, I will still need my time for my quiet and my coffee. It’s a daily practice keeping my mind ready and sharp for every single day.

AM: You’re joining the cast of the Traitors. We love this show, whether it is the US, UK, Australian, or New Zealand editions! And literally, we’ve watched various times for the US portion of the franchise, and thought, “what would it be like to have Alan Cumming (GoldenEye, The Good Wife, X-Men franchise) and Kristen together – we need these interactions”. So when it was announced that you would be doing this, we are ready. So, why did you want to join this show?

CHEF KK: You know, there was a lot of reasons going into it. I think that, for me, cooking competitions are something that I would dabble back into if it were for charity, or fun – but something that is less pressure. But like competition, I kind of hung up my hat on that one. This one is so outlandish, unrealistic in terms of the theme. honestly. We’re all running around the Highlands of Scotland trying to murder banished people!

AM: I know right?

CHEF KK: It’s insane!

AM: And some of those challenges, like the whole bug thing – yikes, so much anxiety for you.

CHEF KK: It’s silly.

AM: Yeah.

CHEF KK: So I felt like that lent itself to just like fully immersing yourself into fun. That was one reason. Another reason is, I’m always trying to find new ways to push my introverted self to get out there and do more, especially if you know it’s like even loosely tied to promoting my show.

AM: Oh yeah!

CHEF KK: So I mean, I’d be lying if I said I went on there not doing that. And then, also, they keep beating us in the Emmys, and Alan keeps beating me in the host category, so I was, like, if you can’t beat ‘em -

AM: You might as well join them. We can’t wait to see that!

KIND has been a brand that we have enjoyed eating. It’s healthy, a great mix of ingredients, and it’s fun. How did you come to this brand, and why did you want to partner with them?

CHEF KK: You know, they came to me, and I think the beauty of something like, KIND, is obviously I’ve had many KIND bars. I know exactly the brand. So when someone or a brand comes to me and says, well, obviously, it’s in the name, right, like World Kindness Day - let’s see what can we do, how can we shine a light on it, and how can we give back? That already, is check, check?

AM: Yes.

CHEF KK: It’s a yes, yes, and yes. I think it’s our duty if we are able to give and shine a light on things or have a platform in order to celebrate something, someone or an organization that deserves it, it’s an automatic yes. You know, I think it happened so organically because I was already going to New Orleans for the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, donating my time to cook at the reception there, and so, what better way to amplify all parties than to really like join forces in a way and give back in an even greater way. So, you know, It just it all made sense. It’s an incredible organization. With KIND, we’re able to give $25,000 to the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, 10,000 bars to YEP (Youth Empowerment Project), like, wow, it was a win-win for everybody.

AM: Will there be other things in this partnership as well, or was it just this with the Emeril Lagasse Foundation?

CHEF KK: The good thing about the Emeril Lagasse Foundation and KIND and myself donating $25,000 is that Emeril Lagasse Foundation supports programs like, YEP, but also everything else. So, they’ve already done a lot of the legwork. So if we can give back to them, they’re then giving back to x amount of organizations.

AM: It’s always great to be kind and to do kind things and how much more important is it during the holiday season to do so?

CHEF KK: Well, I think it’s 100%. Like, definitely, during the holidays to give back to those who might need more, whether that be food, money, time, or you know anything. We’re all capable of giving back in some form. Even if it’s just a smile and kindness throughout the day. You know, I think, on top of that given our climate, it’s not just the holidays.

AM: Yeah.

CHEF KK: It’s an everyday thing. And you know, many hands makes light work. I think that if we can all focus on impacting what we are capable of doing financially or time-wise, or whatever? All those little ripples do make a huge difference. For me, I sometimes get overwhelmed with the the amount that has to be fixed and course corrected, but the beauty of kindness is that you can give it for free.

AM: So true!

We always love chatting with you about different foods. We are in the holiday season. So, what are three dishes that you’re loving to make during this holiday season?

CHEF KK: Oof man!

AM: I know! But you’re always sharing things that we store away to make or to order when we’re out and about!

CHEF KK: We have entered baking season. My wife is Australian as you know. She had never gone apple picking. So, this past Fall, we went apple picking! That was awesome. I was like, how do you not know about this?

AM: I mean – it’s the perfect Fall thing to do and is just part of the checklist for the season – come on! right?

CHEF KK: I mean it’s a lovely tradition! You pick too many apples, you don’t know what to do with them. So, like anything like that, it adds so much like warmth and sense to the house. I love it so much.

AM: Yup!

CHEF KK: The warm spices! My wife is totally into baking from Gregory’s cookbook (Everyone’s Table: Global Recipes For Modern Health) recently, which is fabulous. I mean, honestly, for me, especially being East Coast based - you know, winter is cold. Anything that gets you to hunker down, get a fireplace going, warm meal, and people that you love gathered around the table. I think that there’s nothing better and then the food is almost a secondary to the feeling that it can bring.

AM: You’re always having your hands in a number of pots. We’ve talked about a number of things are coming up, but are there any other projects that we need to know about to share with our community?

CHEF KK: You know, not anything new that I can speak about at the moment. Obviously, January 8th Traitors, Top Chef - Spring of 2026.

AM: Which is exciting.

CHEF KK: And then, you know, great holiday gifts. Kish Aperitif and my New York Times Best-Selling, memoir, Accidently on Purpose.

AM: Love Kish Aperitif, a must for the bar cart.

CHEF KK: Thank you so much! We have a new label, looks a little bit different. I’m just, I’m really, really, really proud of that product. I think it’s delicious.

AM: As always, we appreciate you taking the time. It’s so good to connect and it’s always awesome to see how you authentically navigate with things that we know as well as new things that you do! We can’t wait for Traitors and will be cheering for you. And of course, when Top Chef drops can’t wait to see how everything unfolds!

CHEF KK: My pleasure! I’m sure we’ll be speaking again very soon.

IG @kristenlkish

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | PG 59 + 60X KIND | PG 63 Sam McElwee/Peacock | PG 64 David Moir/Bravo |

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see KINDNESS MATTERS | Chef Kristen Kish in mag.

TOP PLACES TO GO PADDLEBOARDING IN THE UK

Paddleboarding is an attractive water sport for many. It gives you a rare chance to slow down while still feeling active, and allows you to meet other people along the way.

In the UK, the sport has gained momentum, with growing numbers taking to the waters across the country – and it’s easy to see why. We’re spoilt for choice here, with stunning landscapes and beautiful locations.

With the right preparation, you can enjoy peaceful sessions that suit your ability and the conditions on the day, whatever your experience level. Here are some top locations to explore on your next paddleboarding adventure.

Finding your footing on UK waters

If it’s your first time paddleboarding and you’re wondering where the best places are to try the sport, it helps to think about more than scenery alone. You always benefit from choosing water that matches your confidence and checking local forecasts. It’s essential that you also let someone know where you plan to launch and land.

A leash and personal flotation device give you an extra margin of safety, while your clothing should match the season rather than the calendar. Light, quick-dry swim shorts and sun protection work well in summer, while colder months call for insulation that keeps you warm if you end up in the water. Start with a short, familiar route before you push further afield.

Runswick Bay

Runswick Bay is just north of Whitby. The village sits above the beach, giving you clear views of conditions before you launch, and seasonal lifeguard cover adds reassurance during the warmer months – it’s recommended for your safety that you stick to lifeguarded locations where possible.

You can enjoy gentle paddling close to shore or follow the coastline towards Kettleness, where you’ll pass dramatic cliffs. Aim to time your session with a calm sea state so you can focus on balance and rhythm rather than battling swell.

Wastwater

Wastwater is a stunning setting for paddleboarding. It’s the deepest lake in England, located to the west of the Lake District. Although the lake stretches only a few miles, steep fells rise straight from the shoreline, creating a dramatic backdrop.

These waters tend to be less busy than other spots in the UK, and it’s unlikely that there will be more than a few others on the lake with you – ideal if you prefer quiet sessions and steady progress. Calm mornings work best here, as the surrounding mountains can funnel wind later in the day.

Christchurch Harbour

Christchurch Harbour in Dorset offers gentle waters that help you build confidence without worrying about waves. You’ll spot wildlife as you move between Mudeford Quay, Stanpit Marsh, and Friars Cliff, making this a magical paddleboarding experience.

Launching from established access points keeps things straightforward, and the gentle environment makes it easier to practise turns and longer strokes.

Ullswater

Ullswater is located in the Lake District and is the second-largest lake in England. It offers calm waters and varied scenery, which suits relaxed day paddles.

There are several starting points that allow you easy access to the water. You might want to opt for setting off from the car park at Pooley Bridge or head to Park Foot or Glenridding car parks.

Along the way, you pass wooded shores and quiet bays where you can stop, rest, or simply take in the view. There are paddleboarding schools that you might want to join, too, where experts will guide you through some of the most picturesque areas. Choose a clear day so you can enjoy the full sweep of the surrounding fells without rushing the journey.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR RINGS SPARKLING: MAINTENANCE HACKS MOST JEWELERS WON'T TELL YOU

Let's be honest—your rings deserve better than being tossed into a dish on your nightstand after a long day. Whether you're wearing diamond rings that catch every ray of light or simple bands that hold sentimental value, proper care makes all the difference between jewelry that dazzles and pieces that look dull and neglected. The good news? You don't need expensive cleaning solutions or frequent trips to the jeweler to keep your rings looking their best.

Most jewelry professionals will gladly charge you for services you can often handle yourself. While they're not exactly hiding secrets, they're certainly not advertising the DIY methods that work surprisingly well. This guide will walk you through practical, money-saving techniques to maintain your rings at home, plus help you recognize when it's actually time to call in the experts.

The Kitchen Sink Method That Actually Works

You've probably heard about soaking rings in various concoctions, but not all recipes are created equal. The safest and most effective homemade cleaning solution uses ingredients you already have:

What you'll need:

1. Warm water (not hot—extreme temperatures can loosen settings)

2. A few drops of mild dish soap (avoid anything with moisturizers or antibacterial additives)

3. A soft-bristled toothbrush

4. A lint-free cloth

Mix the soap with warm water in a small bowl and let your rings soak for 20-30 minutes. This gives the solution time to break down oils, lotion residue, and everyday grime that dulls the sparkle. After soaking, use the toothbrush to gently scrub around the settings and underneath the stones where dirt loves to hide. Rinse thoroughly under running water—but please, close that drain first—and pat dry with your cloth.

When to Take Off Your Rings

Here's where most people make their biggest mistakes. We get attached to our jewelry—literally—and forget that rings aren't indestructible. Certain activities are absolute no-gos if you want to preserve your precious pieces.

The Gym is Your Ring's Enemy

Weight lifting, resistance bands, even gripping cardio equipment can bend bands, loosen stones, and create scratches you'll regret. The combination of metal equipment, sweat, and pressure is a recipe for disaster. Leaving your rings in a secure locker for an hour won't hurt your commitment to your partner or your personal style.

Swimming Pools and Oceans

Cold water causes your fingers to shrink slightly, which means your rings can slip off more easily. But that's not even the worst part. Chlorine in pools can actually damage certain metals over time, while ocean water brings salt content and the genuine risk of losing your ring to the waves. Just don't risk it.

Cleaning Day Chemicals

Bleach, ammonia, and harsh household cleaners can discolor metals and damage stone settings. Even "gentle" cleaners can leave residue that builds up over time. Make it a habit: gloves go on, rings come off. This simple routine will save you from potential disasters and expensive repairs.

Special Considerations for Gold Rings

Gold rings, whether yellow, rose, or white gold rings, need some thoughtful care. White gold has a rhodium plating that gives it that brilliant silvery finish, and this coating wears thin over time—usually after 1-3 years of daily wear. You'll notice a yellowish tinge when the plating wears off. Jewelers can re-plate your ring for typically $50-100, but you can extend time between platings by following gentle care practices.

For all gold jewelry, avoid exposing them to chlorine and harsh chemicals, as these can weaken the metal and cause discoloration. Clean your gold pieces with the gentle soap method described earlier, and always dry them thoroughly to prevent any moisture damage.

The Professional Touch: When DIY Isn't Enough

As much as I advocate for home care, some situations absolutely require professional expertise. Here's when you should book that jeweler appointment:

1. Loose stones: If you hear rattling or notice a stone moving even slightly, stop wearing that ring immediately

2. Bent bands or prongs: Don't try to bend metal back yourself—you'll likely make things worse

3. Deep scratches or significant tarnishing: Surface scratches can be polished with a jewelry cloth, but deep gouges need professional attention

4. Annual inspections: Even if everything looks fine, having a jeweler examine your rings once a year is smart preventive maintenance

The Prong Check You Can Do at Home

Between professional visits, run your fingernail gently over each prong holding your stones. They should feel smooth and rounded. If you catch a snag or a prong feels pointy, that's a warning sign it's wearing thin or bending out of place.

Hold your ring up to the light and look at it from the side. You should see the prongs holding the stone securely with no gaps. If light shows through where prongs meet the stone, schedule that jeweler visit.

Storage Solutions That Prevent Damage

How you store your rings when you're not wearing them matters more than you might think. Tossing everything into one jewelry box creates a scratching free-for-all. Diamonds can absolutely scratch other diamonds, not to mention softer metals and gemstones.

Smart storage principles:

●       Keep each ring in a separate compartment or soft pouch

●       Store jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

●       Consider a lined jewelry box with individual slots

●       For travel, use a ring roll or padded jewelry case

The Truth About Ultrasonic Cleaners

Walk into any jeweler and you'll see those magical ultrasonic cleaning machines humming away. Should you buy one for home use? Maybe, but proceed with caution. While they're incredibly effective at removing stubborn dirt, they can also loosen already-fragile settings or damage certain stones. If you do invest in one, use it sparingly and never for emeralds, opals, pearls, or any ring with loose stones.

With these straightforward maintenance practices, you'll save money, prevent heartbreaking damage, and ensure your precious pieces sparkle just as brilliantly years from now as they did the day you first wore them.

ATHLEISURE MAG SUMMIT® SERIES X CHERYL "FINN" FINNEGAN OF VIRGINS SAINTS AND ANGELS

Athleisure Media's Co-Founder/Creative + Style Dir of Athleisure Mag, Kimmie Smith will chat with Cheryl "Finn" Finnegan, Founder/Chief Creative Officer of Virgins Saints & Angels to talk about this jewelry brand, the creative process, assortment showcasing some of their acclaimed fashion jewelry, campaigns, and upcoming projects in 2016.

​Join us via Zoom to know more about Virgins Saints & Angels.

​​Join us on 12.31.25 @ 11am CT/12pm ET. Upon signing up you will receive the Zoom details.

​FOLLOW US ON IG | @athleisuemag @vsa_designs

​​ABOUT ATHLEISURE MEDIA LLC

​​A leading voice in Athleisure Culture, Athleisure Mag features celebrity, athlete and artist covers, high editorial, and active lifestyle stories. Athleisure Mag receives 30M+ Imp/mo, and is carried on airlines, luxury hotels/resorts, cruises and lifestyle distribution partners. Catch our Athleisure Studio podcast shows featuring top chef judge/restaurateurs, athletes, artists, trainers, actors and entrepreneurs at your favorite podcast platform.

​​ABOUT VIRGINS SAINTS & ANGELS

​​Virgins Saints & Angels is a luxury jewelry brand featuring symbols of protection & good fortune, infused with romance & spirituality, all handcrafted in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

​The Sacred and Profane, the spiritual and the everyday. They are inspired by the goddesses and deities that protect us and our mother earth. The Virgins Saints & Angels team is like an extended family of artisans and creative spirits on both sides of the border. Before a piece of VSA jewelry reaches you, it has been touched by many hands. From the inspiration of the designer to the artisans who practice traditional jewelry making methods from centuries ago, to the angels in their warehouse; every piece they create has been touched by hands that care.

​As a women's owned-and-operated business where people are encouraged to be themselves and be creative, their founder and creative visionary, Cheryl “Finn” Finnegan, has a unique ability to channel the spiritual world into beautiful pieces that add meaning, mystery, good fortune, and a touch of magic to anyone who wears them. The business started as an obsession with the Virgin of Guadalupe and Mexican folklore. They believe in the value of bringing artisanal craftsmanship to fresh design, in the desire to make jewelry that reflects the soul and ancient spirits imbued in these timeless symbols and traditions. Every bead, every stone has been placed there by someone who is proud of their jewelry-making heritage. Nothing we do is mass-produced. Every piece is unique. Each piece tells a story continued by those who wear it. Wear It & Believe!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

SPARTACUS REVISITED

We enjoyed Spartacus on STARZ which ran from 2010 - 2013. It brought the vivid life of the Roman Republic in 73-71 BC. The show focused on a Thracian gladiator who led a slave uprising against the state. Ancient Rome was filled with sex, violence, political corruption and more.

Now on Dec 5th, Spartacus is back with Spartacus: House of Ashur which is a alternate timeline that looks at what if Ashur (Nick E. Tarabay) didn’t die from the previous season. In this new world, we are met with characters that we have seen before as well as a host of individuals that are part of this retelling. We had the pleasure of attending the press junket for this show to talk with Steven S. DeKnight (Pacific Rim franchise, Spartacus, Daredevil) - Creator/Showrunner/Executive Producer/Writer, Nick E. Tarabay (Star Trek Into Darkness, The Cleaning Lady, Stargirl), Graham McTavish (The Hobbit franchise, House of the Dragon, Outlander), Tenika Davis (Saw VI, IT: Welcome to Derry, Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities), Claudia Black (The Nevers, Ahsoka, Transformers: EarthSpark), India Shaw-Smith (The Magicians, The Pines Still Whisper, Andor), and Jaime Slater (Jupiter’s Legacy, Pacific Rim: Rising, DareDevil).

ATHLEISURE MAG: It’s a pleasure to talk to all of you about this incredible series. Starting with you Steven, we have been a fan of your work for awhile with Pacific Rim, Spartacus, and DareDevil – what led to your creating the original, Spartacus and then deciding to come back with this amazing Spartacus: House of Ashur?

STEVEN S. DEKNIGHT: In the original, I got a call from my agents one day saying that Sam Raimi (Doctor Strange: Multiverse of Madness, Spider-Man franchise, The Quick and the Dead) and Rob Tapert (Xena: Warrior Princess, Evil Dead franchise, Time Cop) wanted to do some gladiator show for STARZ. They asked me if I was interested in taking the meeting. I said, Rob Tapert, Sam Raimi – yes! I will take that meeting. I didn’t know it was Spartacus until I was in the meeting. They had already sold the concept to doing Spartacus to STARZ and they needed someone to come in and to figure out the story.

That was really the start of it and I was thrown into the deep end. I didn’t know anything about Roman history except for Ben Hur and the original Spartacus. That’s all I knew, but we had some great historical consultants. So that was the genesis of the first show.

For the second one, STARZ and Lionsgate has been reaching out over the last decade every now and then to see if I had any interest in doing some more Spartacus and I was always too busy or recovering from the original show. But the last time, I guess it was about 2.5/3 years ago, they reached out and I was free. I had had enough time to rest up from the original show and so I started kicking around ideas. It was what you would expect – it was Caesar, the Triumvirate, Anthony and Cleopatra, but there was something that I loved about the original couple of seasons about Spartacus. I liked the upstairs/downstairs, the political intrigue of the city – I wanted to capture that feeling. So at the end of Vengeance with the original show, Nick has a line where he talks about the rise of the House of Ashur. Then he gets his head chopped off so he never gets to do that.

AM: Right.

SSD: So, I always thought that that sounds like something fun and that would be a show that I would want to do. I love working with Nick so I pitched the idea, they really liked it and here we are!

AM: Wow! Nick, what drew you to the original Spartacus and what do you think about coming back into this series which is like an alternate history type of aspect?

NICK E. TARABAY: Originally what drew me to it is that again, that world has always been fascinating to me. The original Spartacus is that world of the gladiator, Roman history, and all the drama that goes with that in between. I have always been intrigued by this. I then remember that at the time that I auditioned for it, I thought it was really interesting – the character. So going into it and because the character evolves so much as you go into it, originally he was going to be friends with Spartacus or maybe he was going to be part of the rebels – then they switched it and he was going to become an enemy to them. That’s what intrigued me, I was always behind Ashur meaning, I was never ahead of him. As an actor, I like to be surprised as I’m reading! Now after developing this and I was lucky enough to be able to work on the prequel and to be able to show why he is the way he is. That was just a gift. Then in S3 in Vengeance, I got to play a little bit more. So it was a great arc for a character – beautiful arc for a character. So coming back to that, you can’t say no to this! It doesn’t happen very often.

AM: Right!

NET: And to think, they have added even more colors to him this season which I really like! It’s really a full embodied character and I really love that. So yeah, it’s a privilege to be back on this.

AM: We just heard from Nick and Steven about Spartacus and Spartacus: House of Ashur, we’ll be looking at this new series as we continue to talk with the rest of the cast. What drew you to Spartacus: House of Ashur?

INDIA SHAW-SMITH: What certainly for me, I was such a huge fan of the original series. So when I heard there was to be a new iteration focused on Ashur, I was so excited to watch it – let alone to audition for it. So certainly when that came through, I jumped at the chance to be part of this world that I love so much!

CLAUDIA BLACK: I wanted the opportunity to embody a woman who is in her 50s as I am who is fighting for relevancy. While I don’t want to fight necessarily as that can become scrappy and ugly, it’s a bizarre situation to find oneself in in mid life with culture sort of turning its cheek. Quite specifically, when I had the meeting with Rick and Steven, they said that “they were doing something new and fresh and that they were going to have a Black Gladiatrix.” Every being in my body said that it was a hard yes to that! It was really interesting to know that they were for women and Black women and that they were going to do something and this was really just so important. I thought, that this tells me that they want to bring this show which is so beloved – into the new age and the new era. That feels important and relevant.

GRAHAM MCTAVISH: Well, so many things! First of all, I’m such a fan of Steven’s writing. I just think that it’s such a unique writing style that he has. It’s semi-Shakespearean and it’s Shakespeare meets Conan the Barbarian kind of vibe. I love that. I was a huge fan of the original Spartacus and I watched all of them when they came out. So the opportunity to do this was a no brainer. I don’t know if you know this, but when Steven wrote the character, it was for me for Korris. So that was very flattering!

Also, I’m a huge history buff so ancient Rome is a place that I have always been fascinated by and when I did Outlander, people always asked where I would time travel to and I would always say Rome – just for a day, I wouldn’t want to spend more than a day there. After that, it’s good, I will just catch the last plane out. That would have been fantastic. I think that the thing about Rome is it seems like this far away world and obviously there are things that when you look at it, obviously there’s this, that, costume, weapons, gladiators, etc. But there are actually things that are more in common with their world than what we think. I actually think that we have more in common with Rome then we imagine. I think that there is a Roman inside all of us. We just dress differently. In similar circumstances in the world that they were working with, that’s how we would have been – you and I. We would have been part of that world. If we were dropped in there now, there would be certain things – probably the smell – that would be pretty unusual although the Romans were very clean people. They had baths, spas, and all of those things – maybe a bit like a Four Seasons experience perhaps – who knows? But in all seriousness, you would probably find yourself going, “I recognize these people.” I recognize him, I know what he is thinking and I recognize her and I think that is what is so interesting about doing anything historical because it is the chance to bring it into a modern world and to be able to hold up a mirror to us.

JAIME SLATER: What didn’t? I mean it was everything! It was just such a vivid, colorful, depraved world where anything goes. It’s just fun and entertaining.

TENIKA DAVIS: I’m a huge fan of the world. I just love shows that are bloody, audacious, sexy, and drama filled. That initially made me hooked already! But the fact that I got to play a female gladiatrix and tell that part of history and not only that, a Black Kushite (Editor’s Note: Kushites are ancient Africans from the Kingdom of Kush, an area that encompassed parts of modern day Sudan and Egypt. Historical figures includes Queen Amanirenas a formidable leader who fought and led her army against the Roman Empire in 27 and 22 BC – she halted the Roman invasion and buried a statue head of Augustus Caesar under her temple. The biblical figure of Moses’ wife who is described as a Kushite women. The Kingdom of Kush was known for its powerful queens and warriors.) woman who now becomes a female Gladiatrix. It’s powerful in and of itself and we get to redefine history and retell stories that have not been told before. It’s just bold!

AM: So bold! In reading the notes about this series and learning that a Black Gladiatrix would be in it, it reminded us of the Black Samurai named Yasuke who was African and arrived in Japan in 1579 and became a samurai under the warlord Oda Nobunaga. He was the 1st non-Japanese person to achieve the rank of samurai in feudal Japan.

Tell us about the characters that you are playing!

CB: Cossutia is to be villainess, but she is really fighting for her safety and her daughters because in this environment, when women are not well matched – they really fall through fast cracks. They have fought their way to being in this elite world and they don’t want to lose their power. In this environment, power is really everything and it is their main currency.

ISS: So, Viridia is the daughter of Cossutia. She is a young Roman noble woman and when we first meet her, she is in a period of deep mourning for her husband who was killed by Spartacus and his rebels at the show opening. Viridia is a very raw ethereal soul. She is very good natured and kind hearted. She really sees the best in people and I think that that is something that makes her very unique and a rare figure in this world that is really driven by brutality, death, deception, and high stakes. Certainly where we find her in the beginning of the series, there has been some regression. She was a wife and now she is once again the child. She’s having to find her place in society and she knows that she will have to do her duty by her family and likely remarry.

JS: Cornelia is one of the elites. She is the elite on the show. She is the wife of Caesar. She is very powerful and very wealthy. She plays by no rules and she has zero consequences. She is menacing, duplicitous and I have heard some refer to her as evil. I had to kind of come at this from a different angle because of all the things that she does and says! There’s a lot of things that are hard to relate to with her so I had to approach this in a very much so “what if” state of mind – what if this was fun, what if I liked this, what if this felt good? Once I did that, things started to fall into place.

GM: He’s a fascinating character because he starts in a very typical way as someone who is very guarded, very reluctant to become friendly with people based on experience really. They live in a world of sudden death and to become close to somebody who can literally be dead the next day is probably not a good idea and he has probably lived through that experience. However, as the show progresses, you see those relationships develop particularly through Achillia and Ashur and with Opitur (Arlo Gibson). Those are the 3 principal relationships along with Celadus (Dan Hamill) – but those are the other ones where you will see the other side to Korris. The vulnerable, emotional, tender side and that is just such an interesting area to explore for an actor.

TD: I really believe that life prepared me for this character. I have black belts – a 2nd degree Black belt in Martial Arts. To earn that in and of itself, was a huge feat in really fighting awesome Korean men in our version of the arena at the time. There were lots of tournaments, competitions, and all sorts of stuff. I started realizing that this character Achillia is actually going through a version of the same thing. So I do believe that I was built to play this type of character. Now, there are new elements that are brought into it. I had never used a sword before or a shield or those kinds of weapons to fight somebody. It was normally my arms and legs, but I remember going to that place where I said to myself, “you know what to do in this world. You have been here before and if you’re frustrated and you’re annoyed – understand that that is part of Achillia’s journey and she knows that she is the underdog and that she is going to have to find her way with these new weapons.

AM: What was your biggest takeaway in playing Achillia and being able to showcase something like that that we have not been able to see before?

TD: For me, it’s empowering. But it is important because we haven’t seen this world before, we haven’t seen these types of characters before. We haven’t seen these characters depicted in this version of Roman society. So that just makes this show new, bold, and audacious.

I know that as a little girl, I grew up with the role models like the Warrior Princess – Xena – Lucy Lawless (Spartacus franchise, Battlestar Galactica, Marvel’s Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D.)! She was so good in that role and I remember just looking at her and thinking that she was strong, fierce, and powerful. But even with that, she didn’t really look like me. When I had the opportunity to create a character in Achillia and to understand that the responsibility of that is that somebody is going to look at her and feel empowered and that maybe one day they can look like that and be her too. That is the relevance and importance to this telling of this story, and to this world that we have helped create.

AM: What was your biggest takeaway in being able to play Cornelia?

JS: She’s so powerful and I am a very petite person, so the power she exudes over men that tower over her, the way that she humiliates them, the way she makes people tremble and to have an experience and embodying that level of power was really fun. Because in real life, that just doesn’t happen – not that I want it to!

AM: We were fans of the original so we’re excited to dig into this series. So what should fans of this show from the original who are now coming into this new alternate timeline with its colors and tones – how can we frame our minds best as we begin to watch this series?

SSD: Oh I think that you’re going to have everything that you love about the original and more! It’s brutal, it’s romantic, it’s sexy, it’s operatic!

NET: Yes! I just said this before and I am going to say it again! The new show is like cocaine with sugar on top! There you go! That’s what the fans should expect – it’s full on!

CB: I think that the original DNA is there sufficiently. The passion, the people involved at the head of each department, they worked vigorously to make sure that the beloved DNA is still in this. We now have a sort of refreshing trajectory so it has something for everyone, every age group, there’s some wonderful representation for the LGBTQ community, it’s nuanced, it’s layered, it’s dense, it takes a minute to set up this whole new world. But, I do think that it’s juicy and that people who say that they are just so attached to the original – I get it. I order the same thing from the same restaurant every time and yet, I would say in this instance, this is really great on the menu – give it a go and it’s not going to disappoint.

TD: Fans of the previous show, me included, you’re going to get all of the wonderful things that made Spartacus the powerhouse of a show that it is. Spartacus: House of Ashur is going to be bold, it’s returning to that world of blood, sex, drama, but this new chapter focuses on new things that we haven’t seen that is defined in a new way – that’s power, legacy, defying expectations, giving a voice to underdogs and outsiders in a society that doesn’t want them. Doing all of this with new characters that are telling stories through a fresh lens.

JS: Come in with an open mind and expect anything!

IG @spartacusstarz

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see SPARTACUS REVISITED in mag.

TAKE CONTROL

Right before NYFW, we attended a roundtable dinner at Manhatta with the Medtronic team to learn about their latest device, Altaviva which is an implantable tibial neuromodulation system that allows those that suffer with Urge Urinary Incontinence (UUI) and allows them to enjoy a quality of life. We wanted to know more about various bladder issues, what the pathways are to treatment and about this device from Dr. Janet Harris-Hicks, a urogynecologist who we met at the dinner. Since this dinner which had great conversations from her, a patient who was going through the trials as well as those who were involved with creating the device, much has taken place as they attended a conference to share an array of data and they are now FDA approved. We talk about this and more to understand what we need to know about this condition and how we can help ourselves or others who may need this!

ATHLEISURE MAG: It was great to meet you at the Medtronic dinner a few weeks back at Manhatta where we learned about bladder control and the innovative device which recently became FDA approved. Dr. Janet Harris-Hicks, you spoke at the event and walked us through the device, but before we talk about that, you are a urogynecologist, can you tell what you specialize and what this entails?

DR. JANET HARRIS-HICKS: Absolutely. So in general, as a urogynecologist, we are a sub-specialty of Surgeons that focuses on what’s called Pelvic Floor Disorders. And so those disorders are broken up into 3 main categories. We are sub-specialized to treat Pelvic Floor Disorders of pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and fecal incontinence. So, obviously, in those 3 broad areas and focusing on obviously only on women, that’s where the gynecologist part comes in. In those 3 broad department areas of clinical medicine - there’s a lot of sub-specialty of diseases, but those are our focuses on urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.

AM: Is there a difference between urinary incontinence and an overactive bladder?

DR. JHH: Yes, absolutely. So urinary incontinence, by definition, is the unwanted loss of urine prior to your ability to reach the restroom. Okay, so you’re actually leaking urine when you don’t want to be expelling that urine, versus overactive bladder is a syndrome. So, by definition, a syndrome in medicine means a collection of symptoms, okay, and that can be caused by multiple different disease processes. So, overactive bladder by definition is the sense of urgency of needing to rush to the restroom with the added frequency of urination, which is defined as 8 or more times of urination within a 24-hour period. Then we even get more specialized in the respect that we call it Overactive Bladder Wet versus Overactive Bladder Dry, so there it does not have to have the urinary incontinence component to have overactive bladder. It’s simply the culmination of symptoms that is urinary urgency, urinary frequency plus or minus nocturia, which means having to get up to the restroom more than once at night. And so, with that syndrome, you may have urinary incontinence as a part of it, or you may not, but the actual overactive bladder is your urgency and frequency of urination.

AM: Oh wow. So, what are the symptoms that people should be looking into if you realize maybe you’re having bladder issues, and that maybe you need to get it checked out?

DR. JHH: So, just those things, believe it or not - those individual components. If you’re having to go to the restroom 8 or more times in a 24-hour period, that’s a sign of a problem. That’s not normal, so that is that should be evaluated. Obviously, if you’re leaking urine before you can get to the restroom that need to be evaluated. And if you have to get up at night more than once to empty your bladder – 1 time is normal, more than once at night, is the sign of a problem. So those are the basic functionalities that if folks are starting to experience those problems, they should reach out to a specialist to be evaluated.

AM: In terms of Athleisure Mag, A lot of times, especially when you’re thinking about The New York Marathon and other races that people are preparing for around the world or even focusing on fitness goals - a lot of people are increasing their water intake. How do you know the difference between? Yes, it’s a problem in terms of your body or because you’ve simply increased your intake so it’s not something that you have to be concerned about?

DR. JHH: Yeah, great question. So we play a part in that which is obviously adequate hydration and not over hydration. So typical, adequate hydration for an adult would be 64 to 84 ounces of fluid a day, and then I always tell my folks now if it’s too hot, then you need more hydration. Obviously, if you’re talking to a marathon runner and they’re training, there’s a difference in hydration. But on a daily basis, if you’re just doing your regular activities, you’re adequately hydrated, and you’re having those symptoms - Then again, that’s an issue. Obviously, you can over hydrate yourself and force urinary frequency and urgency.

AM: It just came into our mind because when we’re working out on a new method or taking on something new, you’re going to increase your water and it takes a couple of days for the body to accept what’s going on and then the body levels out to whatever that new normal is.

DR. JHH: And that takes you into what we define in medicine when we’re thinking about treating overactive bladder, so we have a clinical pathway we follow that’s standardized among all of our sub-specialties in neurology. And that’s endorsed by the American Neurology Association. So, when we’re thinking about, how do we correct these problems for patients, we think of it as first, second, and third line therapy. So, first line therapy, you just hit the nail on the head. It’s all about behavior modifications. Yeah, you want to make sure the patient’s adequately, but not over hydrated. The next step is teaching patients about bladder training, you should go to the restroom about every two and a half to three hours. Then, we talk about elimination of what we call bladder irritants, so high levels of caffeine, red wine, spicy foods, cigarette, whether that’s primary or secondary exposure. Those are some of the top four irritants of the bladder. So that’s our first conversation in discussing the patient’s bladder function. And then, once they have initiated those and practice those and put those practices into place, if they’re continuing to have symptoms of overactive bladder, then we start talking about medication. So, that’s our second line therapy. Okay, patients are supposed to have somewhere between 6 weeks and 8 weeks worth of medication, plus their behavior modifications, and then if they continue to have issues with their bladder of overactive bladder, they move to third line therapy where we start to talk about Alta Viva and then sacral neuromodulation, which interstem is a part of peripheral tibial stimulation, which is historically where we got our data to even come up with the thought of an implantable tibial implant, and then Botox, which can be injected into the bladder, and that’s that clinical pathway that all patients will step through to get to that point of treatment.

AM: During the roundtable dinner hearing from the patient who received the implantable tibial neuromodulation system, as well as hearing your comments about it as well as your colleagues was truly insightful. And the fact that between that dinner in early Sept right before NYFW and now, it seems like, so much has happened since then because we have the approvals for the device to be widely used. So, for our community that was not at this dinner, can you talk about this device?

DR. JHH: So Altaviva is an implantable tibial stimulator. Again, our historical data is that since 1983, believe it or not, the clinical pathway was shown to be highly effective where we could actually take an acupuncture needle and tap it in at the tibial nerve down near the ankle and use an external TENS unit (Editor’s Note: A TENS unit is a small, battery-operated device that used low-level electrical pulses) to stimulate that nerve, which retrograde stimulates up through the leg back to the bladder and have positive impact upon treatment of overactive bladder syndromes. The issue became just how did you deploy that treatment to patients and the data showed that those patients needed to be treated with that external stimulator once a week for 12 weeks, and then once a month forever. Well, I again, as I said at our conference, I love my patients, and I think they like me, but I’m not so sure they want to visit me for the rest of their life in order to maintain their continence, and so that is where our historical scientific evidence came from.

AM: That’s amazing.

DR. JHH: Altaviva expands on that and now, with Medtronic’s insight, it has created a small, implantable device that is put in which requires no general anesthesia, just a little bit of local anesthetic in the leg. Typically, the procedure itself is somewhere on the order of 10 to 15 minutes. The device itself is very simple. I’ve heard it compared to half a stick of a gum versus a USB.

AM: At the dinner, we kept saying it was the size of a USB – it’s unbelievable.

DR. JHH: Think of it as a USB, so it’s very small. The incision at the ankle is about a quarter of an inch, maybe a little bit less than that and slips into that pocket with two small absorbable stitches. The amazing thing is that treatment begins immediately, okay? The technology is so advanced that there’s enough energy in that tiny device that the patient will receive therapy for a solid year. Well, all our patients will come back once a year so we can check on them as their physician. And so at that visit in their 15 minutes, we will recharge their device and they’re ready to go for another year. And so, again, that device is rechargeable in current technology, as I’m sure it will continue to advance for up to 15 years for that patient.

AM: That’s just amazing.

DR. JHH: It’s just been a beautiful journey to see. You know that we’ve had this data. We’ve understood the scientific process, and now we actually can deploy that information in a very acceptable, manner that allows patients to have a phenomenal Improvement in their quality of life.

AM: It’s incredible. What should a patient, know who let’s say they’ve been cleared to take this surgery. What should they know prior to doing it? Is there anything they need to do or prepare themselves for? Like, if you go to get laser hair removal, there’s certain things that you need to do before you get there.

DR. JHH: You know, believe it or not, outside of, and they would have obviously been guided through the pathway outside of going through that pathway to determine as you said that they are indeed qualified for this third line therapy. There really isn’t anything that they have to be prepared for. You know, like other surgeries, you’ve got to make sure someone comes with you that can drive you home. Because this does not require any systemic anesthesia, you can drive yourself to your appointment. You can drive yourself home so you don’t have to even involve any other family members.

Again, the therapy is immediate, so there’s no delay in actually starting to see Improvement in your bladder function and quality of life. But the most common medication, which is an aspirin or baby aspirin - we didn’t stop that in our patients for clinical trial. So, so we don’t have to, you know? Really, there’s not a lot of as you’ve alluded to.

AM: Wow! And since the FDA approval that took place, have you seen more people upticking to want to get this now that they have access to it?

DR. JHH: Absolutely! Yes, it’s been so much fun! Of course, we’ve reached out to our own patients in the practice. We sent out an email, and immediately, we were inundated with interest from that. It’s just been so fabulous. I actually just did an outreach in the community yesterday and went out and spoke to lots of the primary care physicians, and they were just so excited, because I mean you, you know, these numbers, it’s insane. I mean, 32 million Americans suffer with overactive bladder. I mean, that’s just the overactive bladder folks. Not to mention all of the urinary incontinence that comes along with that, and our primary care doctors are the ones that are at the forefront. They’re the ones having to deal with this as well as this other laundry list of Health Care issues that patients have. So, for them to understand that pathway that we talked about and how those patients get to me and then there’s actually a definitive therapy, because again, data would show us that the average patient will and I say, just sits and turns right, and the medical meal for average of 6 years just going round and round in medications before they actually even have access or even understand that there is access to the third line therapies, and that’s where I really try to reach out in my own community as well as I think most of my colleagues. Even at the level of technology - it is the industry like Medtronics that realizes there’s such a lack of knowledge.

AM: We have a widespread readership and community across the country as well as internationally, too. But if someone was looking to get this done, where do they go? I mean, obviously, they have your office, but where do they start?

DR. JHH: Well, your gynecologist and urologist are trained in this field obviously and understand and have the skill set to deploy third line interventions, and for most insurance companies and even along those with governmental supplements with Medicare/Medicaid. They do have to follow through with their primary care physician before they get into that subspecialty office. But again, the pathway is very easy. It’s not a lot of barriers there for them to be able to be seen by your urogynecologist. Of course, I speak specifically in women. They can establish with primary care and very quickly and easily move through the sub-specialist office.

AM: That is phenomenal. For those in our community that are connecting with this whether they are in need of it or a friend, family, or colleague, what do they need to know or be aware of to have these tough conversations about this?

DR. JHH: Again, I focus not just on women, and I would assume this is also a man, but obviously, the bulk of urinary incontinence from a standpoint of the numbers showing that there are more women, obviously than men, that suffer with urinary incontinence. But the misnomer, and this is another one of my huge soap boxes that it is a normal part of aging to actually leak urine, okay? The conversations that I hear among women that, “oh, I just have to cross my legs when I laugh, cough or sneeze - I just have to put on a pad.” You know, all the compensatory things that we do as females because we’re busy – we have to be mom, we have to be aunt, we have to be wife, we have to be surgeon - and all those things come first. My mission is that women understand that there are true pathways to treatment and that it is not a normal part of aging, and you do not have to compensate for urinary incontinence and that it is a treatable process absolutely.

AM: In speaking with you today and even researching for this interview, these last 2 questions aren’t really related to this but as we’re speaking to someone who is also a urologist, we look at our poops as we know it says what is going on in our body and it means something. So is this the same with urine in terms of the color?

DR. JHH: Yeah, good question. Well, certainly, the darker the urine, the more concern there is for dehydration.

AM: Right.

DR. JHH: And again, we talked about the importance of overall health and adequate hydration is appropriate. So, if you’re seeing that your urine is extremely dark, then that certainly can indicate an issue of hydration. But outside of that, there’s not, you know, obviously, we can go down some rabbit holes, right? A lot of different things, right? That don’t have anything to do with urinary, right? But as far as bladder function, clear urine is a healthy sign. Light/pale urine is what it should look like. If it starts to get dark, if it starts to look pink, if it’s frankly blood in your urine, those are indications of other disease processes that need to be evaluated immediately for sure.

AM: Many in our community, us included are very focused on our gut health. We’re always looking at supplements like a new one we’ve tried called Broc Shot that has the broccoli seed powder wich has sulforaphane which aids in detoxing, reducing inflammation etc. Is there connection between gut health and your urine health in your opinion?

DR. JHH: That’s a really great question. Well, you know, I’m sure you’re aware that gut health pretty much plays a part in everything in your body. So, am I currently aware of any clinical literature out there that links gut health to bladder health? No.

AM: Right.

DR. JHH: That doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist, that’s for sure. Because, as you said, we have understood, there’s so much important information out there about gut health and certainly again being focused on female, there is we could have an entire conversation on that.

AM: For sure and that would be welcome!

DR. JHH: Looking at vaginal health and the microbiome of the vagina – we could be here all day! That has certainly been some amazing data that has come out in the last 15 years of what we understand of the vaginal microbiome, which again in women is tremendously important in bladder health.

IG @medtronic

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see TAKE CONTROL in mag.

HOLIDAY EATS | CHEF DAVID ROSE

We love this time of year when we sit down with our friends and family to share meals and memories with! We always enjoy when we take a moment to sit down with Chef David Rose to find out how we can best approach the holiday season. From tips for tackling Turkey Day, prepping before the big day, and hacks that we need to assist us - he keeps us in the loop on what we need to know and some of his favorites with Omaha Steaks.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What do you enjoy about the holiday season?

CHEF DAVID ROSE: I love creating new memories with families, eating my mom’s amazing food, cooking for my family, and sharing the love of food, good times, and a great game of Taboo.

AM: Where does the preparation process start for you as we would imagine that we shouldn’t start on the actual holiday dinner, party, etc that we are hosting?

CHEF DR: The preparation starts at least 3-4 days before the actual holiday to allow for thawing of the turkey, marinating of meats and proteins, and making desserts. That way, on the actual day of the holiday, I can focus on bigger items like the turkey, the roast, the jerk chicken, etc.

AM: How can we take recipes that are our go-to in our family to merge the traditional elements of it while putting a bit of a twist on it?

CHEF DR: To elevate the traditional recipes with the classic dishes like turkey, ham, roast, I would recommend you use a beautiful glaze using preserves and herbs and add a nice wine like an Omaha Steaks’ cabernet to the gravy.

I’d also recommend roasting vegetables to bring out natural caramelization and sweetness in the vegetables. Finally, I love adding bacon to deep fried Brussel sprouts.

AM: What’s the biggest holiday hack that we need to know about to make holiday meal planning easier!

CHEF DR: The biggest tip is to plan ahead! Simplify holiday meal planning with Omaha Steaks. Keep your freezer stocked all season long with high-quality beef, poultry, pork, seafood, easy-to-prepare side dishes, and desserts. From full holiday meals to heat-and-serve options, Omaha Steaks delivers everything you need to plan and enjoy a stress-free holiday season.

AM: When we’re attending someone else’s holiday dinner or meal, what should we bring as a gift?

CHEF DR: I would recommend being thoughtful and asking your host what he or she needs you to bring and use that as a prompt. Personally, I would say a bottle of wine or your favorite spirit and a dessert.

AM: The best part of enjoying a holiday meal is the leftovers! What tips do you have to re-imagine our favorite portions of the meal in a new way?

CHEF DR: You can’t go wrong with a turkey sandwich – but you can make a variety of sandwiches including adding turkey to your grilled cheese. I also like to dice the protein and add it to my eggs for breakfast. I’ll also add turkey to fried rice or make egg rolls with turkey.

IG @chefdavidrose

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Omaha Steaks

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see HOLIDAY EATS | Chef David Rose in mag.

EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE: HOW ITALIAN SILK SCARVES ELEVATE EVERYDAY ATHLEISURE

Athleisure has redefined modern wardrobes. What once belonged strictly to gyms and yoga studios now flows seamlessly into everyday life — from morning coffee runs to casual meetings and weekend strolls. Comfort remains at the heart of this movement, but today’s athleisure is no longer purely functional. It’s polished, intentional, and increasingly expressive.

As silhouettes become more relaxed and performance fabrics dominate daily dressing, women are turning to refined accessories to balance ease with elegance. One of the most effective — and underrated — ways to elevate athleisure looks is through timeless, high-quality accessories. In particular, women’s scarves crafted from Italian silk are emerging as the perfect counterpoint to sporty essentials, offering texture, colour, and sophistication without sacrificing comfort.

This is where Italian craftsmanship meets modern lifestyle dressing, transforming athleisure from casual to effortlessly chic.

The New Language of Athleisure Style

Modern athleisure is no longer about blending in — it’s about versatility. Women want outfits that adapt to movement, schedule changes, and social settings, all while reflecting personal style.

Key elements defining contemporary athleisure include:

●     performance-driven fabrics

●     relaxed yet flattering silhouettes

●     neutral foundations with statement accents

●     minimal layering with intentional detail

Accessories play a crucial role in this evolution. A single refined element can shift an outfit’s tone entirely — taking leggings and a zip-up jacket from purely functional to thoughtfully styled.

Why Silk Works So Well With Athleisure

At first glance, silk and athleisure may seem like opposites. One is associated with luxury and tradition; the other with performance and movement. Yet this contrast is exactly what makes silk scarves so powerful in modern styling.

Italian silk brings:

●     fluidity that softens structured activewear

●     lightness that layers without bulk

●     natural sheen that elevates matte fabrics

●     breathability ideal for transitional wear

●     timeless appeal that transcends trends

When paired with athleisure staples, silk introduces balance — adding refinement without overpowering the relaxed aesthetic.

Italian Craftsmanship as a Style Anchor

Italy’s reputation for textile excellence is unmatched. Silk produced and finished in Italy reflects generations of expertise, from weaving and dyeing to finishing and design.

Italian-made silk scarves stand out because they:

●     drape beautifully without stiffness

●     retain colour richness over time

●     feel luxuriously soft against the skin

●     maintain structure through repeated wear

●     complement both casual and elevated looks

In a wardrobe built around comfort, these qualities matter. Athleisure outfits are worn frequently and in varied contexts — accessories need to keep up.

From Studio to Street: Styling Silk Scarves With Athleisure

One of the strengths of athleisure is its adaptability. Silk scarves enhance this flexibility, allowing the same base outfit to shift effortlessly throughout the day.

Easy ways to style silk scarves with athleisure:

●     loosely tied around the neck with a zip-up hoodie

●     draped over shoulders with a fitted tank and leggings

●     knotted onto a gym tote or crossbody bag

●     worn as a headscarf post-workout

●     layered under a lightweight jacket for contrast

These small styling choices introduce polish while preserving the comfort athleisure is known for.

Colour and Texture: The Finishing Touch

Athleisure outfits often rely on neutral palettes — black, grey, beige, olive, and white. Silk scarves offer an opportunity to add colour, pattern, and texture without disrupting cohesion.

Italian silk scarves bring:

●     refined prints

●     rich jewel tones or soft pastels

●     visual interest through sheen and movement

●     contrast against technical fabrics

This makes them ideal for women who prefer subtle expression over bold statements.

Effortless Elegance Without Overthinking

One of the greatest appeals of athleisure is ease. Accessories must enhance this — not complicate it. Silk scarves excel because they require minimal effort for maximum impact.

They:

●     instantly elevate simple outfits

●     require no tailoring or sizing

●     transition across seasons

●     adapt to different environments

●     remain timeless year after year

A single scarf can refresh multiple outfits, making it one of the most efficient style investments in a modern wardrobe.

Athleisure Meets Slow Fashion Values

As athleisure grows, so does awareness around sustainability and mindful consumption. Italian silk scarves align naturally with slow fashion principles.

High-quality accessories:

●     last significantly longer

●     reduce reliance on disposable trends

●     encourage intentional styling

●     support craftsmanship over mass production

●     retain relevance beyond seasonal cycles

Pairing performance wear with enduring accessories creates a wardrobe that is both functional and responsible.

Why Silk Scarves Belong in the Modern Athleisure Wardrobe

Athleisure is no longer about choosing comfort over style — it’s about redefining what style looks like in motion. Italian silk scarves complement this philosophy perfectly, bridging the gap between relaxed dressing and timeless elegance.

They allow women to:

●     express individuality within minimalist outfits

●     elevate casual looks without sacrificing comfort

●     transition seamlessly between activities

●     invest in pieces that transcend trends

In a world where versatility is everything, silk scarves deliver quiet luxury in the most wearable form.

Conclusion: Where Performance Meets Polish

Modern athleisure thrives on balance — between movement and refinement, ease and intention. Italian silk scarves offer that balance effortlessly, bringing heritage craftsmanship into contemporary, performance-driven wardrobes.

By layering timeless accessories with modern essentials, women create looks that feel polished yet relaxed, elevated yet practical. It’s proof that style doesn’t need to be complicated — sometimes, all it takes is one thoughtfully chosen detail.

In the evolving world of athleisure, women’s scarves crafted from Italian silk remain a powerful reminder that elegance can be effortless — and comfort can still look refined.

NAVIGATING CHANGES | HERS X PVOLVE

We all know that working out is essential whether, you are maintaining various goals, ensuring that you have movement, or a means to hang out with others while doing an activty together. As we navigate our life cycles, we know it’s essental to continue to work out. For those that are hiting menopause, it’s essential to continue your efforts as well as to figure out how to optimize this in this stage of life. Earlier this month, we went to Pvolve’s studio to take a class that focused on this while learning about how Hers plays into this as well.

We sat down with Dr. Jessica Shepherd, Board-Certified OB/GYN, Chief Medical Officer at Hers, and Pvolve Advisory Board Member for Women’s Health & Longevity. We talked about Hers and how they are focused on menopause initiatives.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background and how you became the Chief Medical Officer at Hers.

DR. JESSICA SHEPHERD: Joining Hers as their first Chief Medical Officer is helping me reach more women on their healthcare journeys in a way I never could before. Hers shares my vision: to break down barriers and make personalized, effective healthcare accessible to every woman, wherever she is on her journey. We’re not just offering solutions; we’re building a community and platform that equips women with the knowledge, resources, and confidence to take charge of their well-being. This isn’t just about health; it’s about empowering women to show up fully in their lives, confident and strong. Whether it was building my own practice in Dallas, or writing my first book, Generation M, to guide women through menopause, my driving force has always been empowering women to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives.

AM: For those that are not familiar with Hers, what is this brand and what are the kinds of products that we can get from them?

DR. JS: Hers is a 100% online, one-stop platform for women’s health and personal care that connects patients to licensed healthcare professionals for support for weight loss, hair regrowth, mental health, and skincare.

Through Hers’ simple online process you can connect with licensed medical providers who can recommend customized treatment plans including prescription treatments, if appropriate, shipped right to your door.

Some products include treatment for perimenopause and menopause, GLP-1s for weight management, treatment for anxiety and depression, treatment for hair loss, and much, much more.

AM: Why is Hers expanding into menopause care and what products are available in this category?

DR. JS: For too long, women have been forced to navigate an outdated healthcare system that’s often impersonal, inconvenient, and dismissive – a system fundamentally built for men, by men. This is precisely why women need access to healthcare that offers holistic, empowering healthcare treatment plans and support that are discreet, accessible, and tailored to their unique needs and dynamic lives.

Menopause impacts every woman. When estrogen levels drop too low, imbalances lead to a mix of symptoms — like mood changes, sleep problems, and dry skin and hair. But only a third of OBs are trained in menopause care. This can leave women feeling dismissed and left to find solutions on their own. In October, Hers introduced access to a new line of treatment plans built specifically for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. Based on health history and personal preferences, patients can work with a provider to get a combination of treatments tailored to their needs. If eligible, tailored kits could include estradiol, a hormone naturally made in the body, in a patch or pill to help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Tailored kits may also be combined with progesterone to help protect the uterine lining and improve sleep quality, and estradiol vaginal cream to alleviate discomfort as-needed.

AM: What can you tell us about menopause and its 3 stages, and at what age does this tend to happen?

DR. JS: Menopause is a hormonal transition that happens in three distinct stages, typically between ages 40 and 55, and each woman experiences it differently.

The first stage, perimenopause, can begin in the early 40s, or even late 30s. During this time, estrogen levels fluctuate unpredictably, leading to irregular periods, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and subtle shifts in metabolism and body composition.

Menopause is medically defined as the point when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle. During menopause, hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are at their lowest, and symptoms tend to peak.

Post-menopause is everything after that 12-month mark. While symptoms may continue, they do often stabilize at this point. During this stage, long-term health truly becomes the focus: protecting bone density, preserving muscle, maintaining heart health, and supporting metabolic and cognitive function.

Understanding these stages allows women to anticipate changes instead of being surprised by them. It’s also why having trusted guidance, whether medical, nutritional, or movement-based, is so important.

AM: What symptoms are associated with menopause so that we can be aware of coming into that phase of life?

DR JS: Symptoms vary widely from person to person, but there are definitely some that are more common:

• Irregular periods

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Sleep disruptions

• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

• Mood swings, irritability, or increased anxiety

• Weight changes, especially around the abdomen

• Loss of muscle mass

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort

• Decreased libido

• Joint aches or stiffness

• Changes in skin elasticity, energy, and stamina

While these symptoms are common, I always emphasize that women are not meant to simply “push through” them. With modern science and technology, we have far better solutions than past generations ever did.

For example, at Hers, we offer personalized menopause treatment plans that help women manage symptoms with modern, individualized care. From a physical perspective, Pvolve’s functional movement programs help address muscle loss, stability challenges, and energy fluctuations that often accompany this life stage.

AM: What is the link between nutrition and movement when you are entering these stages?

DR JS: Movement and nutrition form the foundation of how well women navigate menopause. As estrogen declines, we naturally lose muscle mass and bone density, which slows metabolism and impacts energy, strength, and even cognition.

From a nutritional standpoint, women should focus on:

• Protein at each meal to maintain muscle and stabilize blood sugar

• Fiber to support digestion and metabolic health

• Healthy fats, especially omega-3s, to support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation

• Hydration and minimizing ultra-processed foods to keep energy and mood more stable

  From a movement standpoint, women benefit most from a combination of:

• Strength training to rebuild muscle and support metabolism

• Mobility and stability work to protect joints and maintain balance

• Short, strategic cardio bursts like SIT training for heart and bone health

• Intentional recovery to regulate stress hormones and improve sleep

This exact combination is what inspired the Menopause Strong program at Pvolve. It’s a six-week progressive movement plan that blends all four pillars – strength, mobility, stability, and recovery – to help women feel strong, energized, and in control.

AM: What are the challenges that women face when they are entering menopause?

DR JS: Women typically face challenges on three fronts: physical, emotional, and informational.

Physically, declining estrogen leads to changes such as muscle loss, slower metabolism, weight redistribution, sleep disruptions, joint stiffness, and lower energy or stamina.

Emotionally, women may experience mood fluctuations, increased anxiety, irritability, brain fog, and a general sense of “not feeling like myself.”

I always emphasize that these experiences are very real and a result of hormonal and biological shifts. On that note, perhaps the biggest challenge is the knowledge gap.

We’re still battling decades of silence and stigma around menopause. Many women feel dismissed or unprepared because fewer than one-third of OB/GYNs receive dedicated training in menopause care.

That’s why work like ours is so critical. Hers provides accessible, personalized medical support, while Pvolve delivers movement programs like Menopause Strong that help rebuild strength, improve mobility, and support hormonal and emotional well-being. When women have access to both quality health care and science-driven movement, they’re equipped not just to manage this transition – but to thrive in it.

Now that we understand more about menopause, its phases, and why Hers partnered with Pvolve and Dr. Shepherd’s role in the Menopause Strong program, we wanted to find out more about Pvolve’s role and why this specific workout is great to incorporate in your routine. The fitness brands’ Chief Training Officer Antonietta Vicario talks with us about this and more.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about Pvolve and your role as the Chief Training Officer of this fitness method.

ANTONIETTA VICARIO: Pvolve is a clinically backed functional fitness method that uses resistance based equipment to build strength, mobility and stability, helping people both look and feel better now and long-term. Our Method is truly in a league of its own, helping our mostly female client base embody strength in every capacity. We build muscle, the powerhouse for our metabolism, energy, and power. Our mobility work opens up the joints of the body by taking them through their full ranges of motion to help us prevent injury and feel good! Last, the stability work fires up the deep core and helps to create better balance, giving people greater control over their bodies.

As Chief Training Officer, I oversee all things Method, from our on-demand platform to our growing in-studio footprint with studios throughout the U.S and Canada. I ensure that everything that relates to our trainer team and this method delivers on our brand promise- to help people feel the transformative power of our method and community. This means I create class content, learning and development plans for our trainers, grow our class offerings, lead instructor training, and ensure every experience is truly second to none. I also ensure our content reflects what science shows to improve longevity, joint health, and functional strength, as proven in our Healthy Aging Clinical Study. The study found benefits, like building lean muscle without weight gain, a 19% increase in lower body strength, 10% improvement in balance and mobility, a 21% increase in flexibility,and 23% overall enjoyment of exercise and improved quality of life!

I work closely with an amazing team of core trainers and our medical advisory board, including OB/GYN Dr. Jessica Shepherd, to ensure our programs are grounded in evidence and meet the needs of women at every life stage.

AM: Tell us about the classes that are offered at Pvolve.

AV: Our three core class offerings at Pvolve are Strength & Sculpt, Progressive Weight Training, and Sculpt & Burn. In Strength & Sculpt, we build the foundation on our movement pillars – mobility, stability, and strength – the tenets of a body that moves and feels better at every age. This is a sculpting class that moves the body in 3D- through diversified movements in all planes of motion that feel energizing, opening and intense all at once.

Our Progressive Weight Training class adds heavier dumbbells to these functional movements to help build muscle. As we age, we lose 3-8% muscle mass each decade starting in our late 30’s and so preserving and building muscle is vital to increase not only our lifespan but our healthspan. Muscle is key for optimising our metabolism, it helps us maintain bone density, fuels mitochondria to keep us energized, supports our joints, helps regulate blood glucose, and truly is our tissue of longevity.

Last, Sculpt & Burn layers cardiovascular bursts throughout to build bone density and protect our most important muscle - our heart! It is also proven that regular cardiovascular exercise improves our brain health and can reduce the risk of cognitive decline in later years!

We offer both in-studio classes and a robust Digital Streaming Experience platform, giving members access to thousands of workouts they can do anytime, anywhere.

In our studios, classes typically run 50 minutes and there is nothing like the accountability of moving in person with a trainer and the community! The music will be cranking, the vibes will be high, and the form adjustments will help make the movements even more effective.

Online, the experience becomes fully customizable. Our streaming platform includes workouts ranging from 5 to 60 minutes, so members can choose the exact intensity and duration they’re looking for on any given day. It’s the ultimate “choose your adventure” model with everything from a quick energizing burn to a full-body strength session or a calming recovery class.

Every workout is designed to meet members exactly where they are, whether they’re total beginners, returning to movement after time away, or seasoned fitness lovers who want a smarter way to build muscle. The goal is simple: movement that fits your life, strengthens your body, and supports you at every stage.

AM: Prior to attending the event, we knew that Jennifer Aniston has been a fan of this particular fitness method, and we have various accessories from the brand to do a workout, but have never done it with the mat. Can you tell us about the mat as it’s interesting how it is incorporated into the workout.

AV: The Precision Mat is one of my favorite teaching tools because it helps members understand proper alignment and foot placement, essential for good form. The numbers and lines act as visual cues, making it easier to hit consistent positions with exact foot placement. Because we integrate some very unusual hip rotations throughout the class to unlock mobility, proper placement referencing the mat is especially helpful!

I always say it’s not what you are doing but HOW you are doing it that really makes a difference. You can track progress and challenge yourself to get deeper as you progress, using the mat as an accountability tool. I love the Precision Mat for streaming workouts at home or for anyone new to functional fitness, because it removes the guesswork and helps you nail form.

AM: Tell us about the Pvolve’s Menopause Strong Plan as it was a great workout to do that we definitely felt the next day.

AV: The Menopause Strong Plan is a six-week, science-backed program we created specifically for women navigating perimenopause through post-menopause. The calendar consists of 24 workouts with 6 optional recovery videos to help mitigate some of the physical symptoms of menopause. We also include educational bonus content with Pvolve’s Head of Medical Affairs, Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a leading expert in women’s health and longevity.

The plan is built around four pillars:

• Strength Training – To build lean muscle, boost metabolism, fuel energy, manage blood sugars and support joint health

• SIT (Sprint Interval Training) – Short, powerful bursts of plyometrics to increase bone density, and for heart and brain health

• Mobility & Stability – To maintain balance, protect joints, prevent debilitating falls and improve overall movement

• Recovery & Pelvic Floor Health – To regulate stress, support hormone balance, and restore energy

It’s progressive, empowering, and designed to help women feel strong, capable, and more connected to their bodies. The goal is to arm women with all the information they need to move into this life phase feeling empowered with an exercise plan based on their changing physiology. My hope is it is an act of defiance against notions that the best years are behind us, but rather that we can be our strongest and most radiant selves yet, redefining misconceptions of women in midlife!

AM: For those who can’t come to the Soho Studio, how can they access Pvolve’s Menopause Strong Plan?

AV: The entire Menopause Strong Plan is available through our Digital Streaming Experience platform, which includes thousands of on-demand workouts, structured programs, and new content added weekly. You can follow the full six-week calendar from home!

For those who want the full experience, I recommend the Longevity Bundle, which includes all the equipment used throughout the program. It allows you to train exactly the way we do in-studio, with necessary resistance, diversified programming, and proper weekly progressions. All you need is space for a laptop or phone, and we’ll guide you through the rest.

AM: How important is movement for those specifically entering menopause?

AV: Movement isn’t just “helpful” during menopause; it’s one of the most powerful tools women have. As estrogen declines, women naturally experience faster muscle loss, decreased bone density, changes in body composition, higher inflammation, joint stiffness, lower energy and slower recovery. Functional movement and strength training counteract all of those changes.

In our Healthy Aging Clinical Study, women who followed Pvolve’s program saw significant improvements in muscle mass, balance, flexibility, and strength across pre-, peri-, and post-menopause. Hormonal shifts didn’t blunt the results; in fact, the women gained strength and felt more capable than they had in years.

Movement supports not just physical health, but mental clarity, emotional resilience, sleep quality, and confidence – areas that can feel disrupted during this transition.

That’s exactly why we built Menopause Strong: to give women a roadmap for feeling good in their bodies again and to show that this phase of life can be one of power, strength, and deep renewal.

IG @pvolve

@hers

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Pvolve + Hers

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see NAVIGATING CHANGES | HERS X Pvolve in mag.

THE ART OF THE SNACK RIMTANG

We love the thought of having comfort food that comes in the form of street food with a twist that can be enjoyed with family and friends! We make our way to DC’s neighborhood, Georgetown to enjoy Thai cuisine that is filled with foods and traditions that we can all enjoy when we come in to dine at Rimtang! Chef/Owner Saran “Peter”Kannasute shares with us how he brought this restaurant into his hospitality group, the foods he grew up with, and what we should order upon our next visit with family and friends.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Chef Saran “Peter” Kannasute, can you tell us about your culinary background in terms of where you went to school, kitchens you trained in and what led to the creation of the Yume Hospitality Group?

CHEF SARAN PETER KANNASUTE: I graduated from military school in Thailand, following a long family history of military and police service on both sides of my family. Several members even served the King of Thailand. That background shaped my discipline, but my passion was always in cooking, inspired by my mother, who ran a small street-food restaurant in Bangkok. Throughout my childhood, I would go with my family to the fresh market and select all the freshest, seasonal ingredients to be used for the day. That experience shaped how I approach food and has become one of the most important influences on my culinary path. I moved to the United States in 1999 and began working in restaurants. I later had the opportunity to train under Chef Hiroyuki Sakai, known as the first Iron Chef of French-Japanese cuisine, while he was culinary advisor for Benihana in Florida. From early on, I knew I wanted to open my own restaurant to apply what I’d learned and create dishes that reflect my experience and heritage. That vision eventually became YUME Hospitality Group.

AM: Before we delve into Rimtang, tell me about Yume Hospitality Group, when you launched it, and the restaurants that are within it.

CHEF SPK: I moved to Washington, DC in 2009 and spent several years consulting for restaurants while exploring opportunities to open my own. In 2013, a mutual contact introduced me to my now business partner, Jeff King. He tried my food at a sushi bar I helped open, and we realized we shared a common vision for future ventures. That was where our journey began, and the beginning of YUME Hospitality Group. We currently operate three restaurants:

• YUME Sushi: Modern Japanese cuisine with French influences Located in Arlington, VA | Opened in 2018

• KYOJIN Sushi: Expanded interpretation of that same Japanese foundation Located in Georgetown, DC | Opened in 2023 after the pandemic RIMTANG: Thai street-food o Located in Georgetown, DC | Opened in 2024

AM: What are the flavors, spices, and ingredients that are indicative of Thai cuisine in general?

CHEF SPK: Lime, chili peppers, lime leaves, and lemongrass.

AM: When we say Street Food, what does that mean?

CHEF SPK: Street food refers to the everyday food culture found throughout many Asian countries, traditionally served from small stalls in morning or night markets. It’s fast access to comfort food.

AM: What led to you launching Rimtang as this is a departure from the other restaurants in this group that focus on Japanese cuisine?

CHEF SPK: I don’t see it as a departure from Japanese cuisine, but as an expansion of who I am. Rimtang allows me to return to what defines my roots and the cooking techniques I come from. Rimtang is more personal— it represents the flavors of my childhood and the generational recipes I grew up with. It’s not a different direction; it’s the continuation of my heritage.

AM: You mother, Chef “Mama” Prapit La Femina is the Head Chef at this Georgetown restaurant. Can you tell us about her culinary background as well as how she approaches the menu that is offered here?

CHEF SPK: Before entering the restaurant industry, my mother worked as an accountant. She learned how to cook from my grandmother when she was young and continued to develop her skills on her own. I have memories from my childhood of all the different meals she cooked for me, not only Thai dishes, but also Chinese, Vietnamese, and even Italian. Her approach to the menu at Rimtang is based on intuition and memory rather than formal training. She cooks the way she always has, and that authenticity defines Rimtang.

AM: What does Rimtang mean?

CHEF SPK: “Rimtang” means “sidewalk” in Thai and is commonly used to refer to street-side food stalls in Thailand.

AM: Tell us about the ambiance of this restaurant and what guests can expect when they are coming in to dine.

CHEF SPK: The space is designed to feel like home. It’s a cozy, two-story converted row home. It reflects the atmosphere I remember from eating my mother’s cooking as a child.

AM: What are 3 appetizers that you suggest that we can enjoy with friends and family?

CHEF SPK: Calamari, Tom Yum Soup with seafood, and Crabmeat Egg Omelet.

AM: What are 3 soups and salads that we should have our eye on when we are coming in with friends?

CHEF SPK: Papaya Salad, of course, and Seafood Tom Yum Soup.

AM: What are 3 Mama’s Signature Dishes that we should be thinking about when we come in?

CHEF SPK: Mama’s Signature Fried Rice, Tom Yum Soup, and Papaya Salad.

AM: Between the Stir Fry and the Thai Curry Specials, what are 3 that we should have in mind?

CHEF SPK: Panang curry with protein of your choice, Tom Yum Soup, and Salmon Curry.

AM: For the sides to add to our meal, what are 3 that we should have in mind?

CHEF SPK: Sticky Rice, Steamed Veggies, and Steamed Rice.

AM: What are 3 desserts that you suggest that we should enjoy?

CHEF SPK: Now we have Mango Sticky Rice, Coconut Ice Cream, and Peach Sago.

AM: We love a good drink, what are 3 that we should consider sipping on our next visit (this can be a cocktail, wine, beer, non-alcoholic)?

CHEF SPK: For non-alcoholic, Mama’s Signature Herbal Drinks like Pendant Juice & Thai Tea. Also Signature Thai Beer: Singha.

IG @rimtangdc

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Rimtang

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag and see THE ART OF THE SNACK Rimtang in mag.

HOW CRITICAL THINKING CAN HELP YOU NAVIGATE EVERYDAY LIFE

Critical thinking is often treated like an academic skill, yet it plays a steady role in daily life. Every choice, from reading a headline to making a financial call, depends on how well you assess information, question claims, and judge outcomes. Strong thinking habits help reduce confusion, limit costly errors, and support calm decision-making in moments that feel rushed or uncertain. This article explains how critical thinking works in real situations and how it can be practiced without complex systems or formal training.

Understanding Critical Thinking in Daily Contexts

Critical thinking is the habit of examining information before accepting it as true. It involves asking where a claim comes from, what evidence supports it, and what might be missing. In daily life, this skill shows up when you pause before sharing a post, compare options before spending money, or reflect on feedback instead of reacting emotionally.

Research in cognitive psychology shows that people who engage in reflective thinking tend to make more consistent choices and avoid common reasoning errors. The skill does not require speed. It favors clarity, patience, and attention to detail. Over time, these traits become automatic, shaping how you respond to routine challenges.

Building the Skill Early and Keeping It Simple

Critical thinking develops through practice, not memorization. Early exposure to basic concepts such as cause and effect or personal responsibility can support this growth. Some learning resources focus on these ideas for young readers. Board books that present simple scenarios and clear outcomes help children begin to ask questions and recognize patterns.

This approach extends to short-form reading, which encourages curiosity and discussion. One example is the educational content offered by Tuttle Twins, which presents civic and economic ideas in age-appropriate formats. Their magazines expand on these topics through stories and activities that prompt young readers to think, question, and reflect.

Asking Better Questions Before Reacting

One of the most effective critical thinking habits is learning to ask focused questions. When presented with new information, consider who created it, what evidence supports it, and what incentives may shape the message. This habit helps filter emotional language and unsupported claims.

In conversations, thoughtful questions can reduce conflict. Asking someone to explain their reasoning invites clarity rather than debate. This practice builds understanding and often reveals shared ground that was not obvious at first glance.

Recognizing Common Thinking Errors

Human thinking relies on shortcuts. These shortcuts save time, yet they can lead to flawed conclusions. Confirmation bias encourages people to favor information that aligns with existing beliefs. Availability bias gives greater weight to vivid stories than to typical outcomes. Authority bias can cause trust in a claim based solely on who said it.

Learning to recognize these patterns allows you to pause and reassess. When a conclusion seems obvious, that is often the best time to examine assumptions. This habit supports fair judgment and reduces the risk of repeating mistakes.

Applying Critical Thinking to Media and Information

Modern media moves fast. Headlines are crafted to attract attention, and social media platforms reward rapid responses. Critical thinking slows this process. It asks readers to examine sources, compare reports, and look for original data.

Practicing this skill helps separate reporting from opinion. It also reduces the spread of inaccurate information. Over time, readers develop a sense for reliable outlets and a healthy skepticism toward claims that lack context or verification.

Using Structured Thinking for Decisions

Large decisions benefit from structure. A simple framework can clarify options without adding stress. List what is known, what remains uncertain, and what outcomes matter most. This approach works for career choices, major purchases, or long-term planning.

Structured thinking also highlights trade-offs. No option is perfect. Seeing limits clearly helps set realistic expectations and reduces regret after a choice is made.

Learning From Mistakes Without Judgment

Mistakes are part of learning. Critical thinking reframes errors as information rather than personal failures. After a poor outcome, review what happened, identify contributing factors, and note what could change next time.

This process supports growth in personal finance, relationships, and professional settings. Reflection replaces blame with insight, leading to stronger decisions in the future.

Supporting Clear Communication

Clear thinking supports clear communication. When ideas are organized and evidence is sound, messages become easier to share and understand. This skill matters in workplaces, classrooms, and personal relationships.

Active listening also plays a role. Hearing another person’s full point before responding reduces misunderstandings and supports thoughtful replies. Over time, this habit builds trust and respect.

Teaching Critical Thinking Through Daily Practice

Critical thinking grows through routine use. Small exercises keep the skill active. Reviewing a news story, comparing product reviews, or discussing a decision aloud all count as practice.

For families, shared discussions about everyday choices offer learning moments. Asking children why they think something happened or what could happen next naturally develops reasoning skills.

Long-Term Benefits for Everyday Life

Strong critical thinking habits support confidence and independence. They help people manage uncertainty, evaluate advice, and make choices that align with their values. These benefits extend across age groups and life stages.

The skill does not remove challenges. It changes how those challenges are handled. With practice, decisions feel less overwhelming and more grounded in reason.

Conclusion

Critical thinking is not reserved for academic settings or formal debates. It is a practical skill that shapes how people read, listen, decide, and act each day. By asking better questions, recognizing patterns of thinking, and reflecting on outcomes, anyone can strengthen this ability. Over time, these habits support clearer judgment, steadier choices, and a more thoughtful approach to everyday life.

ATHLEISURE LIST | TAQUERIA CONDESA

Taquería Condesa opened late summer 2025. The name “Condesa” pays homage to La Condesa, one of Mexico City’s most creative, design-forward neighborhoods, known for its Art Deco architecture, and vibrant culture.

When guests walk in, they experience an ambiance that feels fun and welcoming. Taquería Condesa is chic and stylish, but it maintains the warmth and soul of a true taquería. We like to say it’s “sexy, welcoming, and full of sabor.”

The flavors and ingredients of Mexico City, draw heavily from recipes that owner Leonel Baizan grew up with in his family’s kitchen. Handmade nixtamal tortillas, slow-cooked meats, bright housemade salsas, and chiles imported from Mexico - are just some of the components that define the menu. Along with Mexican flavors, Taquería Condesa brings the spirit of community and creativity that defines La Condesa CDMX.

They offer an assortment of appetizers, a section devoted to quesadillas, nachos, and burritos, and sides like rice and beans, but tacos are the heart of this menu. They offer 11 different varieties available in orders of two or three. The drink list features craft cocktails, Mexican beer and sodas, Aguas Frescas, and housemade margaritas, served frozen or on the rocks, with flavor options like mango, strawberry, or passion fruit. Their dessert section features churros.

We enjoy a good taco and with a number of delicious options, we suggest that you try - Birria: slow-cooked brisket with Oaxaca cheese, onions, cilantro, and consommé, Pescado: panko-crusted cod with red and green cabbage and jalapeño mayo, and Hongos: a satisfying vegan option made with mushrooms, beans, onions, and cilantro.

To enhance your taco experience, add generous helpings of Taquería Condesa’s house-made salsas (salsa verde, chile de árbol, and smoky) to absolutely everything. It’s also recommended that diners should try: Guacamole & Chips; Elote Asado (corn on the cob with chipotle mayo, queso fresco, Tajín, and lime); and Flautas Doradas (fried corn tortillas stuffed with a choice of filling and topped with crema, guac, pico, and queso fresco).

Pair your meal with a non-alcoholic treat, the aguas frescas – Tamarind, Horchata, and Jamaica (Hibiscus) – are refreshing and delicious. For cocktails, enjoy their Pepino: cucumber purée, silver tequila, lime, and agave; Beso Rojo: tequila or mezcal with hibiscus, pomegranate, orange, lime, and agave; and Avenida Amsterdam: pineapple purée, Grand Marnier, lime, and orange juice with tequila or mezcal.

Make sure that you enjoy their Happy Hour which runs Monday-Friday until 7 PM.

TAQUERIA CONDESA

824 9th Ave

NY, NY 10019

taqueriacondesa.com

IG @taqueriacondesa.ny

PHOTOS COURTESY | Taqueria Condesa

Read the NOV ISSUE #119 of Athleisure Mag or see ATHLEISURE LIST | Taqueria Condesa in mag.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT BASE LAYER FOR A MORE POWERFUL WORKOUT

A great workout does not begin at the gym door. It begins with how you prepare your body to move. One of the most overlooked parts of that preparation is the base layer you choose. The right foundation can enhance your comfort, improve your confidence and help you stay focused from warm up to cool down. When your base layer supports you properly, your entire workout becomes more powerful and more intentional.

Here is how to choose one that works with you, not against you.

Start with Comfort That Moves When You Do

Your workout is all about movement, so your base layer should never restrict it. Lightweight fabrics and flexible cuts help you bend, stretch and lift without distraction. Look for seamless or minimal seam options that prevent rubbing during repetitive motions. When your base layer supports natural movement, your confidence rises, and your performance follows.

Choose Fabrics Designed for Performance

Breathability matters more than most people realise. Moisture-wicking materials help keep your skin cool and dry, even during the most intense sessions. Soft textures can also prevent irritation during long runs or dynamic strength training. The right fabric forms a shield of comfort that lets you stay focused on your goals instead of adjusting your outfit.

Make Sure Your Base Layer Feels Like a Second Skin

Good training wear should feel almost invisible. When your base layer lies smoothly against your body, you experience less distraction and more freedom to perform. Sleek styles such as thong panties offer minimal coverage that eliminates visible lines and helps your leggings or shorts fit better. A second skin base layer gives you a streamlined feel and the confidence to move without hesitation.

Support Starts from the Bottom Up

While sports bras receive a lot of attention, lower body support contributes just as much to overall comfort. A well-chosen base layer reduces shifting, bunching and discomfort during high-energy movements like squats, lunges or sprints. This stability helps you maintain proper form, which can elevate the effectiveness of your workout and reduce strain.

Choose Styles That Match Your Training Goals

Different workouts call for different foundations:

·        Stretch heavy sessions may benefit from ultra-flexible pieces.

·        High-intensity workouts may require stronger, more secure fits.

·        Outdoor training might call for layers that manage temperature as well as movement.

Choosing a base layer based on your activity empowers your body to perform at its best.

Let Confidence Be Part of Your Performance

Workout clothing should not only function well but also make you feel unstoppable. When you wear a base layer that feels good against your skin and supports your body, you naturally stand taller and move with more intention. Confidence is as important as strength, and the right base layer helps ignite both.

Replace Old Pieces Before They Hold You Back

Even the best base layers lose their elasticity and softness over time. If your workout wear feels loose, worn out or uncomfortable, it is time to refresh your foundation. New pieces can completely transform how you feel during exercise and renew your commitment to your routine.

Final Thought

Choosing the perfect base layer is an act of self-respect. It tells your body that you are ready, supported and prepared to give your best. When your foundation feels right, your workout becomes smoother, stronger and more connected. The right base layer is not just clothing. It is the quiet confidence that powers every step, every lift and every goal you chase.

AVOIDING DELAYS: COMPLETE DOCUMENTATION FOR CUSTOM DEVICE FITTINGS

The process of exploring advanced upper limb options often begins with researching the best prosthetic hand companies and available technologies. An individual has made the pivotal decision to seek an assistive solution for an upper limb, an inspiring step toward regaining function and independence. However, the process of meeting with specialists and reviewing technology options can feel like entering a complex technical negotiation. Many patients report feeling overwhelmed by the terminology and paperwork during their first consultation. Preparation is not just helpful; it directly impacts the speed and success of the fitting. This guide will provide the definitive preparation checklist and expert insights, ensuring the first consultation is productive, focused, and sets the fastest path to receiving a custom device.

Foundational Concepts: Planning for Success

Defining the Goals of the Initial Upper Limb Evaluation

The initial consultation is arguably the most important appointment in the journey. It is a mutual evaluation between the individual and the clinical team to determine the best functional outcome. This meeting focuses on three main goals: the clinical assessment of the residual limb, setting concrete functional goals based on daily life, and thoroughly exploring the technology options provided by various manufacturers. For instance, is the goal fine motor control necessary for a desk job in Albuquerque, or is the priority durable gripping power for manual labor? Setting specific, measurable goals dictates the type of terminal device—whether it is cosmetic, body-powered, or a complex myoelectric system—that the team recommends. Patient-reported data indicates that when functional goals are established clearly in the first consultation, the average time to successful prosthetic use decreases significantly.

Why Documentation Readiness is Key to Faster Treatment

Incomplete paperwork severely delays the entire process, including crucial steps like insurance pre-authorization and the start of fabrication. Readiness to provide comprehensive documentation directly translates into the speed of treatment. Missing medical records force the clinic to pause and track down information from various sources, wasting weeks or even months. Why risk avoidable delays when mobility is the top priority? When the preparation checklist is complete, the clinical team can immediately send the required LMN (Letter of Medical Necessity) to the insurance provider. This streamlined administrative process accelerates the evaluation phase, allowing the prosthetist to concentrate solely on finding the optimal device solution.

Detailed Requirements: The Administrative and Technical Checklist

The Prerequisite Checklist: Essential Medical and Financial Records

To ensure the consultation can move immediately into the planning phase, arriving prepared with a comprehensive set of medical and administrative records is necessary. This prerequisite checklist should be considered mandatory for initiating device procurement. There are two main categories of documents required for assessment. First, required medical records include all clinical history related to the limb loss, specifically surgical reports detailing the amputation procedure, recent clinical notes from the primary physician, and a valid physician’s prescription explicitly stating the need for an upper limb prosthesis. Second, administrative and insurance documents must be prepared, which include the current insurance card, a photo ID, and contact information for any secondary insurance provider, alongside any necessary financial forms.

It is highly recommended that all documents are organized chronologically and copied before the appointment. The clinical team needs to see a clear progression of care, especially if previous devices or rehabilitation therapies were attempted. This evidence is vital for justifying the medical necessity of a new, complex custom device to insurance auditors. Preparing a list of prescription medications and known allergies is also important for the clinical assessment.

Setting Realistic Expectations During the Evaluation Prep Phase

The initial consultation also serves as a reality check, ensuring goals align with the capabilities of the technology. For instance, if an individual requires a wrist disarticulation prosthesis, understanding the current state of technology is key. While myoelectric hands offer remarkable dexterity, they require focused training, maintenance, and regular charging. It is vital to have an honest discussion about expected usage, the physical effort required to operate the device, and the realistic battery life. Thorough evaluation preparation involves recognizing that even the most advanced devices involve trade-offs between cosmesis, weight, and function.

Furthermore, preparation should extend to the limb itself. Maintaining the health and skin integrity of the residual limb is crucial for obtaining an accurate mold and a comfortable fit. Any issues, such as skin breakdown or volume fluctuation, must be addressed with a physician before the consultation to avoid further delays in the fitting process. Understanding that the first socket is often a diagnostic tool, designed for testing and refinement, helps set a realistic timeline for the entire process.

Vetting Specialists: Selecting the Right Partner

The choice of provider is just as important as the device itself. A highly experienced clinic acts as an expert guide through the selection process, providing access to the best technology and ensuring the perfect custom socket fit. Ask a potential provider about specific experience with the type of limb difference involved. For instance, when seeking a specialized device, inquire about the number of complex socket fittings completed at that specific level, as these fittings require specialized knowledge to maximize comfort and residual limb preservation. Individuals should seek clinics that emphasize personalized, compassionate care alongside cutting-edge technology. A provider with strong relationships with all leading manufacturers can offer a wider, unbiased choice of componentry.

When vetting a specialist, inquire about the facility’s in-house capabilities, such as on-site fabrication labs and specialized training facilities. A clinic that handles casting, fabrication, and final fitting entirely in one location often provides a faster, more integrated service, minimizing delays that occur when third-party labs are involved.

Final Thoughts: A Clear Path Forward

The path to receiving a functional upper limb prosthesis requires thoughtful, diligent preparation. The key steps include gathering all clinical documentation proactively, understanding financial readiness before the consultation, and setting achievable functional goals. Preparation dramatically reduces the stress of the process and expedites the time it takes to move forward. This focus on readiness allows the individual and specialist to concentrate immediately on optimizing the technology for functional needs.