ATHLEISURE BEAUTY

MAI COUTURE

SWEAT COSMETICS

MILK MAKEUP

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

See more from the Sept Issue

ATHLEISURE HOUSE NYFW SS/17

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

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

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

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

ATHLEISURE HOUSE CREDITS

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

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

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

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

| ATHLEISURE HOUSE ASSISTANT Christina Sanchez |

| PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY Paul Farkas |

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

See more from the Sept Issue.

CALIFORNIA STRONG

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

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is Xperio UV eyewear?

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

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

AM: How long has the brand been around?

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

AM: So April, you wear the lenses.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHOTO COURTESY WANG/HAOFEI/XINHUA/ALAMY LIVE NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EUGENE DELUCIE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See more from the Sept Issue.

ATHLEISURE HOUSE NYFW SS17

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

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

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

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

Click here, for ATHLEISURE HOUSE sponsors.

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

FOR THE CLIMBERS #ATHSPO

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

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

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

THE ART OF THE SNACK - SMOOTHIE BOWLS

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

Courtesu of Melissa Stadler

POWER ACAI SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 1-2

Ingredients:

Berry Version:

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

Tropical Version:

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

Toppings:

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

*You can substitute any frozen berries for acai

Directions:

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

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

Photo courtesy of Organic Authority

SPRING & MINT STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 2

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

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

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

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

Photo courtesy of Jessica in the Kitchen

COCONUT & KIWI SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 2

Ingredients:

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

Toppings:

Granola
1 Kiwi, cut in half
Hemp Seeds

Directions:

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

2. Top with desired amount of toppings.

3. Serve and enjoy!

ATHLEISURE LIST: LUSH SPA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LUSH SPA FACTS

LOCATION: 

783 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10065 

1525 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Check out their locations in Canada and in London

SPA OFFERINGS:

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

ATHLEISURE LIST: MODELFIT

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

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

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

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

MODELFIT FACTS

LOCATION: 212 Bowery NY, NY 10011

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

THE FASHION GAMES

Read more from the Aug Issue.

MOVEMENT AND SHAPE WITH CUSHNIE ET OCHS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more from the Aug Issue.

KHAELEN + ALISE

Read more from the Aug Issue.

HELLO WEEKEND

| Cheetah Bodysuit ELEKTRIX LOVE | Sport Bra/Striped Long Sleeve Tee AVOCADO ACTIVEWEAR | Headband BUFF | Workout Gloves PROPS ATHLETICS | Cropped Sweat Pant FOREVER 21 | Trainers NEW BALANCE | Talisman Necklace SEQUIN JEWELRY | Earrings E SHAW JEWELS |

Our shoot focused on our model on a lazy Saturday in her apartment from getting up, relaxing, and getting a work out in. Ava DoBro is located in Brooklyn's Navy Yard and has a few things that are worth noting.

AM: What is the concept behind the design of the building?

AD: The building is unique in that it offers two distinct AvalonBay products (AVA DoBro and Avalon Willoughby Square) with a series of shared amenity spaces throughout. Feeding off the energy of the neighborhood, AVA DoBro creates a slender, fully-glazed silhouette anchoring Downtown Brooklyn. Interior designer CetraRuddy brought this dual-branded concept to life by creating two separate communities, each with memorable spaces and experiences geared to a specific target market. Avalon caters to a classic and sophisticated design sensibility, while AVA reflects a more eclectic, neighborhood-inspired design.

AM: What are the amenities offered at AVA DoBro?

AD: AVA DoBro offers residents a Children’s Play Room, comfortable Chill Lounge, Fitness Center, Fitness Studio and 30th Floor Rooftop Terrace to lounge, entertain and grill. Pet-centric amenities include a dog-washing station and vast rooftop dog run. Additionally, the lobby offers immediate access to AVA Brew, an on-site specialty coffee shop. By the end of the year, residents will also have access to an exclusive 58th Floor Lounge with north- and south-facing terraces with stunning views of Manhattan, Brooklyn and the Statue of Liberty.

AM: Accessibility seems to be a major aspect to this rental property with the access to subways on the corner, coffee shop etc, what colleges and larger businesses are in the area that would be draws to potential residents?

AD: Residents are drawn to the easy access to Manhattan and the emerging commercial and retail district of Downtown Brooklyn. The nearby MetroTech Center and King County Supreme Court house thousands of jobs, while Brooklyn Law School, NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering, Long Island University’s Brooklyn Campus and New York City College of Technology flood the neighborhood with students.
 
AM:  Who decorated the space featured within our photoshoot?
 
AD: CetraRuddy is the interior designer for the project and Pushcart Coffee operates AVA Brew.
 
AM: What are other selling points in this building?
 
AD: Beyond the AvalonBay brand recognition, residents are especially fond of AVA Brew, the full suite of building amenities, range of unique apartment layouts, the pet-centric amenities and the friendly building staff.
 
AM: For those that are residents, what are the neighborhood selling points?
 
AD: Residents are attracted to the immediate access to Manhattan, rapidly-emerging neighborhood, active streetlife and unique services and amenities AVA DoBro offers.

AM: Is there anything that we should know about the Brooklyn Navy Yard area?
 
AD: The Navy Yard is undergoing a radical transformation and is quickly becoming an integral piece of Brooklyn’s waterfront redevelopment. A magnet for pioneering, energetic and creative entrepreneurs, the Brooklyn Tech Triangle is fueling a renaissance to grow the innovation economy in Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO and the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Read more from the Aug Issue.

TRAILBLAZERS MICHAEL HEJTMANEK

We caught up with Michael Hejtmanek (pronounced het-man-ick) for our next Trailblazer feature just before he was heading out to ride with some friends.

Trailblazers is our series where we catch up with active creative leaders and innovative thinkers to learn more about our out-of-boardroom adventures, expertise and passions.

Michael has been with Hasselblad Bron since 2008. Hasselblad Bron is a distributor of professional photography products in North and South America, which acquired control of Hasselblad Americas in 2012. Michael rejoined the photography industry after 20 years in the technology industry. Prior to then, Mr. Hejtmanek had been with Oracle Corporation and Compaq (formerly Digital Equipment Company) designing and building large-scale enterprise application solutions. He studied photography and anthropology at Ohio University and holds an MBA from Columbia Business School. He lives in New York City.

ATHLEISURE MAG: How did you get involved with motorcycling? How quickly did your passion evolve?

MICHAEL HEJTMANEK: It started as a midlife crisis activity. I have been doing extreme sports all my life pushing the limits any way I could. But when I turned 45 years old I got rid of my mountain bike and took a Motorcycle SafetyFoundation class. The driving force was the romantic notion that motorcycles represented freedom coupled with some sort of masculine desire to prove my manhood as I entered my mid-forties.

I remember texting my MSF instructor the day after the course ended. “I just bought a Ducati and I am so excited.” She replied “Be careful, keep learning, and be careful.” The first thing about motorcycles that burned into my brain was the MSF instructor telling me that it takes about 100 actions to drive a car and over 2,000 to ride a motorcycle. I found this intriguing and a challenge. I was determined to learn. So I rode. I rode a lot. And I took classes and read books. I soaked it up the way I approach everything. Total focus and commitment. The best way to learn is to ride with professionals who know how to teach. So that’s what I did. I quickly hit the limits of what could safely be done on the streets and within a year of getting my license was on the race track to learn from professional instructors. For me riding is very technical, its all about precision and speed. And while I do own a few vintage motorcycles, my love is the fast sport bikes.

AM: Do you bike to work, what are some of the pros and cons and how do you maximize safety?

MH: I ride to work almost every day. Safety is definitely the number one thing that you can think about when riding especially while travelling through Manhattan, over the Hudson river and onto the NJ Turnpike like I do every day. I have met some people who ride while listening to music. And I have met some who ride with a headset so they can talk on the phone. The statistics are against those who do not put 100% of their attention on staying alive on a motorcycle. I commute every day from the Upper West Side of Manhattan about 45 miles to our North American headquarters in New Jersey. I always ride with full armor because crashes happen and I have had my share of them. I always wear all the gear all the time (AGAT). Riding the NJ turnpike is sort of like playing Frogger. The entire ride is an effort of focus and concentration. Every car is a potential killer waiting to make a sudden lane change. You can never be in a blind spot. You watch for drivers who are texting. You see them drinking beers, you smell them smoking pot. You are always analyzing the lay of traffic and thinking, “Hey there is an opening there for that guy two lanes over, he might make a lane change and cut me off.” It is like a paranoid chess game in real time where you need to anticipate all the drivers’ possible moves before they make them. But then there are the moments when you can slide through traffic, find a great big sweeping turn, and accelerate through the whole thing like you are riding on rails…its magic. It's worth the risk…I get better gas mileage than a Prius (well I actually don’t know that to be true!). But I arrive to work each morning with a huge grin on my face. The commute is cerebral and exciting. It wakes me up, I know I am alive. But getting hit by a taxi cab a few weeks ago at 40MPH was not fun. Just like everything in life, you assess the damage and decide whether you want to get back in the saddle. 

Photo courtesy of eTechPhoto

Photo courtesy of eTechPhoto.

Photo courtesy of Hasselblad.

AM: Are you part of any clubs? How often do you meet?

MH: You mean a gang? Motorcyclist in NYC can be a real problem. There is a lawless out of control faction. We have seen too many incidents in NYC over the past few years that shed a very bad light on motorcycles. Anytime I see more than 20 motorcycles riding together weaving in and out of traffic I cringe. But that said, I do ride with a few very conscious groups of other people who value their own lives as much as they value the others in the group. We ride with a maximum of 8 riders all about the same skill level, all very competent and fast. There are no written down standards of safety because everyone has their own skillset and comfort zone. When we ride with new riders we watch them very closely. People are quickly scolded for risky behavior and are eliminated from the group when they show behaviors that may be dangerous to themselves or to others. When we are not at the racetrack we ride at least two big rides each month. Riding the roads is different from the racetrack. The roads are public, dangerous, and fun for riding with constraint. The racetrack is the place for pushing the limits and also the place where our safety standards get set and reset. On the street, our rides are generally 300 to 350 miles up from NYC usually into Connecticut or the Catskills and we are usually back in the city before 3pm…before the deer come out.

AM: What kinds of physical and mental preparation are needed? Do you work with any mentors to improve and push your bounds? (loved handling higher speed turns)

MH: You are right to point out that the prep is both physical and mental. If I have a head cold or if a have a huge fire burning at work, my performance will be more affected that if I am physically out of shape. But being in shape is absolutely important as well. Some people imagine riding a motorcycle to be like riding a bicycle. But from the perspective of your body I would say that riding a motorcycle is much more like riding a horse. On a horse your legs do most of the work. Your hands are only used for steering input. The same is true on a motorcycle. The handlebars are not for holding on, they are for steering and throttle control. If someone gets off a motorcycle and complains about their wrists and forearms hurting, then they are doing it wrong. On the contrary, when someone gets off a motorcycle after a long ride and their legs hurt so bad that they can barely walk…well that person is doing it right, but probably should hit the gym some more.

But the physical is almost irrelevant in terms of importance compared to the mental. Riding smooth and fast is mostly mental. Its about vision and fear. The conscious control of your vision and your fears is the hardest thing about riding at your limit..and hence expanding that limit. Sure there is a lot a things to understand like traction, body position, and throttle control. But the thing that makes most riders crash is fear and vision. Keeping your eyes wide open and able to see the big picture in any turn without getting drawn into some detail is critical for smoothly executing a turn. But vision isn’t everything. As speed comes up, fear enters the picture. Your own brain can become your worst enemy as fear tries to govern your actions. A perfect example would be to ask any non-rider what you should do if you enter a turn so fast that the tires start sliding. Most would say to slow down or hit the brakes. If you touch the brakes while your wheels are sliding, you will crash. But if you add speed gently you will come through that turn just fine.

AM: Do you do things to take your involvement further, such as track racing or competition? What’s next?

MH: I did about 20 days at the racetrack last year which was my second full year on a motorcycle. The first time I got on the racetrack I was completely addicted. I do about half of my days on the track at the California SuperBike School. I find that on my own I can make minor improvements in technique and lap times, but with the school I can make leaps and bounds. The Superbike school is one of those high performance organizations that is so well run that it is a real rarity. I can’t say enough good things about them. They create a professional environment that allows you to safely improve your technique by leaps and bounds. A good example would be how not only my laptimes but also my confidence through fast turns improved from a track day in April to a track day at the same track in June. I was having a mental problem with a really fast turn. I was hitting the turn at 70MPH on average. Keith Code, the founder of the school worked with me on how to think about the turn, how to see the entrance and exit differently, and how to really see and understand that part of track. He coached me through relaxing and worked with me on how to slow down my mental process. By the end of the day I was taking the same turn at 104MPH….That’s not the type  of improvement I can do by yourself. The Superbike School is really responsible for making me the rider that I am today. All the coaches there are sort of magicians. They work through the physics of the motorcycle and the operation of the brain.

Anytime one is doing a sport where a mistake could end very very badly, concentration and focus are extremely important. Riding at the track has heightened my ability to focus, to see the big picture, and to respond more calmly but incredibly quickly to problems as they arise. Any member of my team at Hasselblad has seen how this has spilled over into how I manage people at the company. We have become more confident, less reactive, but quicker in our execution…And I don’t tend to get as angry when things go wrong…which makes everyone a lot happier. The next thing for me is to start working on is simply finding more time for the race track or the dirt track in between launching some really exciting new cameras and lighting products.

AM: As part of the leadership at Hasselblad, are you also passionate about racing photography? Have you experimented with any drone sports photography when riding?

MH: We have supported a few photographers who take a very artistic approach to motorsports photography. Many members of the high end professional car and motorcycle shooters use Hasselblad cameras. But trackside racing photography it is not our core market. We have some new products that might change that though. 

Regarding drones, I have been on a few racetracks where drones have been used to make photos and videos of riders. But these are mostly at unregulated or lesser regulated tracks where we do Supermoto riding. The big tracks have a general rule against them as they could be extremely dangerous to the riders on the track if not kept out of the way. The drone market is an incredible one. It is one that we at Hasselblad are very excited about. Our relationship with DJI (a minority investor in Hasselblad) is just starting to bear fruit as we launched our first joint product with DJI in early July 2016. The M600 Drone is a fully integrated combination of the Hasselblad A5D-50c 50 megapixel medium format camera and the DJI Matrice 600 drone. The solution provides a professional long range solution for high resolution aerial photography with unmatched resolution and flexibility.

AM: What brought you to Hasselblad? Tell us more about its ethos - ‘Create to Inspire.’

MH: In 2012 I had the chance to meet some of the board members of Hasselblad. I was running a distribution company that sold a handful of high end photographic products and knew the market quite well. During the meeting it quickly became clear that we shared an opinion that drastic changes were afoot in the imaging market and that drastic changes were needed by the companies that supplied tools to the imaging market. We shared a common vision of how the market would play out and what products were needed to not only survive, but to thrive in the new reality that faced the industry. The thing that really sealed the deal was when I pulled out my iPad and showed them a 3 slides that I had made to show where the market was heading. The chairman of the board cut me off, reached into his bag and pulled out his iPad, he spun it across the table and showed me that he had exactly the same three slides. At that moment we both knew that we had the same vision for how to grow Hasselblad. And today, we are in the middle of realizing that vision. The Launch of the Hasselblad X1D camera is the most important camera that Hasselblad has launched in over 10 years. The X1D is a game changer that redefines
high end photography. The response to this camera has been incredible. It packs more image quality into a package smaller than most small sensored 35mm DSLRs. It truly redefines the market. 

Create to Inspire are the words that drive us. We want to create products that inspire all Hasselblad employees. These products must enhance the pride we feel in carrying the Hasselblad name. And on the other side we want to create products that our customers can used to create images that inspire others. When we made the X1D we kept asking ourselves if this camera really can live up to the name, does the image quality inspire us, do the ergonomics inspire us, does it look inspiring? And then finally we ask will this camera inspire photographers to reach beyond the normal, beyond the rules, beyond whatever roadblock they may have? Will this camera be used to create the new iconic images of our time? We believe the answer is yes.

AM: Hasselblad is known for superior image quality and elegant ergonomic design, what are the core values that drive such continued craftsmanship and high performance?

MH: Hasselblad is uncompromising. The employees all take pride in the brand. The company has employees who have been building of repairing cameras for 40 years. These veterans help anchor the brand by providing a living reminder of the past and of the core values of Victor Hasselblad. For a camera to be a Hasselblad it must first and foremost have the best image quality. This means that we must have the best imaging sensors, the best image processing algorithms, the best color, and the best optics. Then, the camera must also have the best ergonomics. It needs to fit in your hand comfortably, the controls need to be easy to adjust. Basically, the ergonomics should make the camera melt in your hands so you can forget about it and use it as a natural extension of your vision. And finally, it must look great. Design is a key component to everything we do.

AM: We loved checking out the new (and first) medium format mirrorless X1D camera prototype at your NYC launch. (US $8995 body, US ~$2.3k for lenses). Boasting a brilliant 50 MP for image quality, we found it to have a fancy feel and UI, while remaining light-weight for walking about. With luxe function meets form solved, what kinds of photographers do you feel the X1D will take off with?

MH: The X1D opens up Hasselblad again to a much broader market. In the days of film, the Hasselblad 500 series cameras were the go to cameras for anyone who was serious about photography. While providing similar image quality, the X1D is different from our H6D series of cameras. The H6D cameras are system cameras. To non-professionals they may seem intimidating with controls functions and modularity that may not be appreciated by a photography enthusiast who may not have special camera needs. The H6D is also heavy and more at home in the studio on a camera stand then in a back pack in Bur-
ma. On the contrary, the X1D is lightweight, small, and unintimidating. It is a really great easy to use camera with an imaging sensor that is much much larger than any other camera in its weight class. So the X1D is a camera for anyone’s camera bag, anyone’s backpack. It is equally at home on a tripod shooting beautiful landscapes, or shooting street photography in the beautiful afternoon light in Paris. It has great resolution and high ISO performance which also makes it an excellent camera for wedding photographers. Take it anywhere and shoot anything, you wont be disappointed with the results.

AM: How is it to balance handmade Swedish craftsmanship with modern chic features, such as the pop-up function flywheel, Wi-Fi/GPS connectivity and touchscreen UI?

MH: Sweden is where are roots are. We are located in Gothenburg which is an amazing city. Our headquarters is right next door to one of the best engineering schools in Europe. The city is home to many high technology companies. We don’t have a problem with modern and chic. Our engineers and designers come from a diverse set of industries and product ideation meetings provide a literal smorgasbord of ideas and practical studies of feasibility and implementation.

AM: Extraordinary high resolution, tonal balance and depth are hallmarks from Hasselblad, what are your latest high-range cameras and where are some notable places they are used?

MH: Our cameras are deployed throughout the world for critical imaging applications. The applications range from the top fashion photographers, the best portrait photographers, the most amazing landscape photographers, to the most demanding museum. There are too many names to name, but if a photographer is really serious about image quality you can bet that they are shooting with a Hasselblad.

AM: Optimized life is much about being focused, tell us about True Focus feature and your Phocus image processing software.

MH: Optimized life is something that we think about all the constantly. We only get to live each moment once. So be present in that moment and make it count. We pick and choose our focus very carefully in the way we work, in life, and in our cameras. The True Focus feature sets Haselblad apart from the competition. It is a unique focusing system that allows a level of focus accuracy not available in other cameras on the market today. It works by allowing you to select the point of the image where you want to be have the most critical sharp focus and press the True Focus button. The True Focus system locks critical focus onto that point and keeps it there even if you recompose the image or change the way you frame the image. A set of gyro sensors take into account the camera position as well as the curvature of the lens to make sure that your focus stays true.

AM: Entering your 75th Anniversary, Hasselblad has a legendary heritage from the first Apollo 11 moon landing to a host of iconic sports, fashion and lifestyle moments, what are some of your personal favorites?

MH: It’s impossible to name only a few, so I will just name one. I am partial to the ephemeral work of Hiroshi Sugimoto. His work can be both beautiful and soft while being technically perfect and deeply meaningful all at the same time. In terms of iconic imagery nothing can beat the moon landing images. Those images changed humanity on a scale that no other image even come close to (pioneer Buzz Aldrin pictured on page 123 with Michael and son Jackson).

AM: We love that the Masters program continues to be a time-honored tradition, who are some of the spotlights for 2016?

MH: The Hasselblad Masters is a really important program for us.  It allows us to celebrate creative photographers who excel in their area of imaging.  The Masters awards are granted to 12 photographers every two years. It's not just a portfolio review and a prize. It is a process that ends with the 12 selected photographers going out into the world and making new original works to be included in the Hasselblad Masters book. The process is a lot of work and the winners join a family of other photographers who carry membership in a very special club. We look forward to honoring all of them at a ceremony during Photokina in September.

2016 Masters List: Art - Katerina Belkina, Fashion/Beauty - Roy Rossovich, Landscape/Nature -Lars Van De Goor, Portrait - Natalia Evelyn Bencicova, Product -  Giorgio Cravero, Project//21 - Jake Reeder, Street/Urban - Ali Rajabi,  Wedding - John Paul Evans, and Wildlife - David Peskens.

AM: Having global ambassadors on a mixture of different subjects is great for younger aspirational photographers, who are some to watch in fashion, fitness, sports and lifestyle.

MH: Its become very difficult to set yourself apart as an up and coming photographer. You must work harder now than ever before to set yourself apart from the crowd. There are so many young photographers doing such great work. We feature some of them on the Our World section of our website.

AM: What’s next for announcements to look forward toward with the X1D, we can’t wait!

MH: The X1D is out of the bag, but the Photokina Trade Show is coming up in September in Cologne, Germany. Keep your eyes on us as we may have some surprises.

P. 116 photo courtesy of Erik Vanlind. P.120 + 128 photo courtesy of eTechPhoto. P.128 photo courtesy of Hasselblad. Picture to the right courtesy of Tom Oldham shot on his H6D-50c.

Read more from the July Issue

THE ATHLEISURE LIST; NYC/HAMPTONS/CT/TURKS + CAICOS - ERIKA BLOOM PILATES

Erika Bloom Pilates offers personalized holistic fitness programs. They believe that fitness and movement are part of a fit, balanced lifestyle. The exercise programs are designed to make members strong and lean, and focuses equally on creating healthy, functional plans that fit into their routine and are sustainable for the long term. The end result is a body that’s free of aches and pains and that feels more graceful and toned.

This is possible by focusing on extensive training and education programs by their staff. Instructors hold advanced certifications in Pilates but also study yoga, Feldenkrais, Barteneiff, Alexander, Klein, and more. They work closely with their top practitioners in acupuncture, holistic health counseling, massage, structural integration, and more, so that a client’s care is fully coordinated. All of this is offered in serene, luxurious environments that are truly full body wellness destinations. The Erika Bloom Method combines the 100 years of wisdom from classical Pilates with modern anatomy research and exercise science.

The method was founded by Erika Bloom, who is still at the helm of all five studios. She was a professional dancer who first discovered and began practicing Pilates to aid her dance training and deal with dance related injuries. She fell in love with Pilates and immersed herself in studying many forms of movement, exercise, and wellness. She is extensively trained in anatomy and exercise protocols. Her many certifications include 650+ hour Pilates, yoga therapy, stand up paddle board, prenatal Pilates, and postnatal Yoga. She has additionally trained in diastasis rehab, gait correction, postural correction, Pilates for tennis, Pilates for golf, scoliosis, osteoporosis, back pain therapy, chronic pain therapy, fascia massage, Zero Balancing, joint replacement protocols, and more.

Erika Bloom's 5 studios are located in:  the Upper East Side in New York City, two in the Hamptons: one in East Hampton and one in Watermill that just opened this Memorial Day, Greenwich, CT, and one at Amanyara Resort in Turks and Caicos. The aim is to open where our clients need them and to expand purposefully to keep the focus on highly trained staff in beautiful spaces. 

Erika Bloom creates a toxin free, natural environment in all studios and their offerings
that adhere to the philosophy. Their bathrooms have hand soap and candles by Red Flower. In addition, they provide filtered water in glass Soma’s (sustainable, plant-based filters). The boutique at Erika Bloom sells a carefully curated selection of organic and natural beauty products including Tata Harper, Josh Rosenbrook, Bottega Organica, and more. While in studio, guests can purchase organic blends by Lulitonix and eco-friendly Pilates props.

Guests can purchase their internal eponymous label of organic cotton T's coupled with a perfect selection of luxury fitness clothing by brands like Alo Yoga, LNA, and Morrow.

The Erika Bloom Method offers private or duet sessions. In-studio sessions are done on the full Pilates apparatus including the reformer, cadillac, chair, and barrel. These machines provide resistance for challenge and assistance for perfect form so each session is maximized. The Erika Bloom Method combines lengthening and strengthening with specific biomechanically sound exercises that target the entire body with focus on the intrinsic musculature. It is perfectly designed to create long, lean, functional bodies. Within each session, highly trained instructors pinpoint imbalances to choose the most effective exercises and create programs specific to each person so that everyone can achieve healthy, long, lean, graceful bodies. 

In addition to the signature Erika Bloom Method sessions, acupuncture, holistic health counseling, craniosacral therapy, structural integration, massage, yoga, and meditation are offered. Practitioners are trained to tailor programs for prenatal, postpartum, diastasis recti, scoliosis, osteoporosis, joint replacement protocols, back pain, sports injuries, and more.

Read more from the July Issue

THE ATHLEISURE LIST; NYC - AXLE WORKOUT

The Axle Workout is a full body strength and conditioning program that is designed with a special emphasis on dynamic core exercises that are unique to the Axle training bar.  Given the ultra light (<10lb) nature of the bar, it allows for a variety of movements catered to every skill level. 

The philosophy behind the class is to pair foundational strength exercises with rolling core training exercises to minimize rest time between sets and create a greater metabolic effect for participants. The class also incorporates tempo training based to the beat of the music during sets.   

Andrew Page is a strength and conditioning coach based in NYC who originally conceived the idea for the Axle training bar while training Olympic Athletes. Anuj Patel is a healthcare professional with an engineer's mind who helped source, design, and manufacture the training tool.  They share the inspiration of improving human movement across all populations. 

The Axle Workout is offered out of Clay Health Club & Spa's indoor studios and outdoor roof deck, located in Union Square.  The Axle Workout will expand to three more locations by fall 2016 and will continue to grow throughout NYC.

Clay Health Club & Spa is a premier luxury health and fitness space.  It offers an array of amenities that include: showers, sauna, spa, steam, indoor and outdoor lounge area, fresh juice bar and cafe, towel service, and locker service. 

Axle Workout apparel is currently private label with eventual plans to partner with leading brands.  

This method is always a full-body and core-centric training program.  We offer three tiers of classes with the entry level focusing more on core strength and balance, mid level building on the first tier and they are introducing more athletic-based movements, and high-intensity classes with advanced classes placing emphasis on metabolic training.

AXLE WORKOUT FACTS

LOCATIONS: 25 West 14th St NY, NY 10011

STUDIO OFFERINGS: Axle Workout's full body strength and conditioning program is currently being enjoyed at Clay Health Club & Spa within their indoor studios and their outdoor roof deck.

Read more from the July Issue

THE JET

The life of athletes is one of dedication and extreme focus, mentally and physically. They focus on a number of areas to be successful - breaking records, obtaining metals, and establishing their legacy. With the Olympics™ days away, we chatted with sprinter and three time Olympic medallist, Carmelita Jeter. 

ATHLEISURE MAG: We know that your athletic career started in high school but what made you want to be a sprinter?

CARMELITA JETER: In the 9th grade, my basketball coach said that I needed to stay in shape and so I went on the track team to do that – it was my only objective. Then I ended up being good and like any person, when you realize that you are good at something – you decide to stick with it. I’m not saying that I wasn’t good at basketball – I was. I just loved the individualism of track and that you took all the credit and all the blame. I feel that the sport builds a lot of character as you have to push, sacrifice, and train harder. It’s not a sport where 4 other people can save you. Starting as late as I did, people thought that I wouldn’t have made it as far as I did. I think that by starting later on, it assisted me in not burning out. I was fresher in the mind.

AM: How was it like when you prepared for your first Olympic appearance and how was it when you were doing so for the games in Rio?

CJ: The first Olympics™ in 2012 – I was coming off of so many great years! In 2009, I ran a 10.64 which made me the second fastest woman ever and the fastest woman alive. I didn’t lose a lot of races that year. In 2010, I came off excelling as well and won a Diamond League Trophy. In 2011 it was World Championships and I won the 100 meters and took 2nd in the 200 and won gold in the 4x100m. 

So I had all these great years going into 2012. The momentum was, “ok you’re hot right now” and what are you going to do to stay hot? I was going into the Olympics, doing all of these cover shoots, interviews, and at that moment, everyone wanted a piece of Carmelita Jeter. 

Unfortunately, in 2012 my aunt who had been diagnosed with cancer in 2009 passed away. This was difficult for me as I was very close to her. I bought my first home down the street from her – who buys a home down the street from their relative unless they are really close? Her passing in March 2012 was really devastating. I didn’t want to run anymore. My approach had changed. I went from being really aggressive and focused to my coach having to call me to make me come to practice. That shows how bad it had gotten as I didn’t want to go. Before she had passed away, I told her that I was going to make the team. I had to check myself and say, “ok are you really going to fail now and not do what you said you would do?” At that moment, I became a monster and you couldn’t stop me – no holds barred and I was going to make the team!

My preparation for 2016 was different as I was 4 years older. I had torn 2 quads and had a quad surgery going into 2016. I had to change how I ate – I went all organic with Nutrifit. I was fortunate enough to have AquaHydrate supply me with bottles of water. I started physical therapy with Evolution PT in Culver City. There were all these things I did adding Pilates with Pilates Platinum in Venice Beach to my equation. This was my Pinky and the Brain – I wanted to stay healthy and it was my only objective. We all know that mentally, I am just a monster. I can run on one leg. I did it in 2013 and tore my quad that year and still got a bronze metal. My heart and mind was never the question. It was whether my body could hold up. After doing so many years of pounding to it – would it hold up? In that aspect, my everything had changed as I needed my body to stay together. 

The week before Olympic trials came, my left quad started to aggravate me and I thought, “you have to be kidding me.” It was devastating because you workout so hard and this time it was an emotional workout more than a physical work. Emotionally, I said that you can do this at 36, but my body was like, “I don’t know boo – I don’t know.” I decided not to run because I got an MRI and it said that my tendon was completely inflamed in my quad. My doctor, Dr Frederick (who is also the doctor for the LA Clippers and Wayne Griffin) gave me the doctor and the friend conversation. The first conversation hurt as he was honest. He said, “if you go out there, you'll make it through the first round and the second one. But when you have to really put your foot down on the gas – you might tear this tendon Carmelita and you’ll be back here and we might have to have a surgery.” That was the doctor conversation and then as a friend he said, I know how hard you work and how tough you are – I know you could pull it off but he didn’t want me to mess my body up forever. For him to have that type of conversation with me let me know how much he cared about me beyond being a doctor and he gave me both scenarios. 

It was so emotional, but I called my coach and I cried like my best friend had stolen my boyfriend. He wanted me to come to the trials but I was so emotionally messed up that there was no way I could be there. I stayed home and watched the trials and of course I want Team USA to win. I’m such a competitor and patriotic – I just want to go out there and get it. So seeing this new team get selected – I knew this was the new era. A lot of the people that I typically run with didn’t make it or got injured. It was hard to watch that as well – other runners not making it showed me the reality that this was a changing of the guard moment. 

AM: When training for meets, what does a typical day look like?

CJ: Right now I am still waking up at 5:30 in the morning, which is the worst thing as I’m not working out – so I just look at the wall. Usually, my schedule is to wake up at 5:30 and to be out the door by 6:15. I’m in the weight room by 6:45. We would train at Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach, so I would be there from them until about 8am in the morning. That’s lifting weight, power weights, power clinking and then I would drive to UCLA in about 30 minutes and we would start practicing there starting at 9/9:15. I’m out there until about 11/11:30. Then it depended on what I had that day. I would leave practice and go to CryoTherapy (imagine getting into a giant freezer) in LA and then grab food as Nutrifit, would bring my meals every morning so I would have it with me and pop it in the microwave somewhere. I would either head home and relax to get ready for Evolution PT which was about an hour. My day would be done by 1:30/2pm as I tried to keep everything together so that things wouldn’t linger out.

After that I didn’t have anything else to do. I would go to Pilates on Tues night at 8pm – my only day that I did something late. This way I could come home, drink water, and relax. So I couldn’t complain about the schedule.  

AM: What was on your playlist during training/working out?

CJ: It always mattered how I felt in the morning. If I woke up and felt the birds were chirping – I’d listen to Maroon 5. I always loved listening to old songs from Aaliyah – something about her voice made me feel calm. If the day was different and I didn’t want to go to practice, I’d have to listen to Jay-Z, Nas, Beyonce, Rihanna. If someone pissed me off – Kanye was always on the playlist and always waiting. 

AM: What’s next on your calendar in terms of in the sport and outside of it?

CJ: Right now, I have actually been pretty busy. I’m trying to stick my hand in all kinds of pots! A few days ago I presented an award at the Humanitarian Sports ESPN of the Year Award to one of teams. It was really exciting and my first time doing that and standing up there. It always feels like everyone’s looking at you and judging you to see if you are going to mess up and I was like, “no I’m not!” I really enjoyed that. I have been a professional since 2007 and this year’s ESPY Awards was my first time in attendance! How crazy is that? I’m usually out of the country in July training or competing. So for me to get glammed up and to go – it was a highlight and I’ve always seen it wishing I could be there. Being in the environment and seeing the tribute that they did for Muhammad Ali and hearing his stories that I didn’t know to it’s fullest extent brought tears to my eyes. 

I’ve been talking with NBC, and hopefully, I can start commentating with them through the Olympics. I want to do so many things – commentate, do public speaking, talk to athletes, empower women to be freaking amazing and get into acting. I know it’s not easy to do it as like a sport, it’s a craft that you have to focus and dedicate yourself to. I feel that I have the personality to do it. I wouldn’t mind being on a sports panel talking with athletes or a day time show! 

I loved that I have been able to get dressed the last couple of days. Many people think that if you’re an athlete you’re just that, but no boo – I clean up VERY well! I’m just excited about so many avenues that I can get into. I really want to be the first woman that can coach in the combine – to coach the guys to run fast in the 40s. I am always trying to set goals to be the best at it. Just like Becky Hammond is the first woman to assistant coach for the Spurs. I want to be the first woman trainer in the combine for sprint. Not just setting it up for football, baseball – I just want to break some barriers. There are so many barriers for women to just smash and I’m just trying to get a bat right now and just go crazy - Lemonade it! 

AM: What’s your personal style on the track, when you’re going out, and then for brunch?

CJ: For the track – honestly I never match unless I am doing interviews. As long as it said Nike, I would put it on – it could be burgundy, orange, green. I went to practice as if I was going to work and to get dirty – it was not a fashion show for me. That was my mindset when I got dressed in the morning as half the time I would get dressed in the dark. It was about sportbra, shirt, tights, bag – let’s roll. I had my gear in certain drawers and it was easy to grab. I didn’t put thought in it. Interviews – I was matching from the hats to the socks, in matching Nike. 

For red carpet, it matters what the event is – fancy dancy, LA casual etc. If there is a lot of energy and press, I use Noel Smith who has been dressing me for these last two events. I have used her before, but I told I’m really going to need her when I’m truly stepping out. She’s keeping my style as she knows I don’t want to be uncomfortable. I want to be classy and give a little sass. 

For brunch, it just matters how I feel that day. I am a vneck and jeans girl. I have 20 – 30 fresh with tags tees on. I will pop one on with a pair of jeans and a blazer and roll. It’s my go to that works with everything. If it’s an event that I have to wear a dress then I will do a flowy dress by BCBG as they always have a number of them that works! For the most part- I’m a vneck/jeans and heel kind of girl. 

But it you’re my friend and I don’t care, then I’m going to throw on sweats, a baseball cap, tee-shirt and some high tops and we’re going to eat. It just matters who I’m with. 

AM: You have a lot of commitments with friends, family, etc – how do you stay balanced and give yourself the time that you need?

CJ: I just got back from Cancun. I like to take vacations, but I don’t like to be gone for too long so I take a number of short trips. I like to lay on the beach, think, and relax. When I need to just be Carmelita, I like to shop – there’s nothing like a little retail therapy. It can be something small or big but I like to give to myself as I work so hard. I love to be with my family as I love them – we’re like Soul Food. I love the energy and that I don’t have to do interviews or overly smile and play nice. We can talk crazy and it will just stay there and I don’t have to worry about it showing up somewhere. I definitely like people who love ‘Lita (that’s what people call me who know me). I love horseback riding, go carting (I’m a champion) – I love being active and things that have nothing to do with track. When you come into my home, there is nothing in there that lets you know I run track and I like that I can open the door to my house and have that serenity now feel. Now if you go into the garage, that is something different!

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GOOD MORNING, MICHAEL

Michael Strahan is a true New York icon. We had the pleasure to chat with him about his new athleisure line, MSX by Michael Strahan; where we can see him next; and how he remains on top. We also caught up with Stuart Billingham, JCPenney Creative Director for Men's Private Label for more on the collection.

ATHLEISURE MAG: - Stylish active lifestyle sounds like a great ethos for you, you’re always looking good on-the-go – what’s an average day like for you?

MICHAEL STRAHAN: There really isn’t an “average day” for me. Every day is so different, especially during different seasons. For example, during football season, I’m traveling from New York to Los Angeles for NFL on FOX. On days that I’m on Good Morning America, I wake up around 5:30am. My afternoons are always different. Sometimes I’m taking meetings with my management and production company, SMAC Entertainment and other times I’m doing activities that I enjoy, like playing golf! I’ve been spending a lot time working on my athleisure line MSX and my clothing line Collection by Michael Strahan.

AM: When did you first decide to jump into a companion line for Collection by Michael Strahan?

MS: I had a lot of fun creating Collection by Michael Strahan with JCPenney and I realized that in addition to great tailored pieces, men also need comfortable, stylish clothes that can be worn anytime. MSX by Michael Strahan is inspired by my active lifestyle and provides men trendy, functional pieces that can be worn everywhere. I call it my EveryWEAR for everywhere. And best of all, it's all priced for a great value. I'm really excited to be part of what's happening in the overall athleisure movement and I'm excited for the future of MSX.

AM: Why do you think athleisure wear has become such a movement?

MS: The way people are living these days has changed. People are on the go much more than ever before. Wearing a comfortable, yet stylish tee and pants is not for lounging, it's for living! To be able to go throughout your day and not feel over or underdressed in any situation is crucial and that's where athleisure comes in.

AM: “Everywear for everywhere,” that’s catchy, what assortment does MSX currently offer?

MS: The line offers a wide range of clothes for every part of life. The chino pants are one of my personal favorites because they can easily go from the office to the golf course. Also the Henley three button shirts, the v necks and an assortment of short options. 

AM: What is it about MSX by Michael Strahan that makes it optimal for workouts and tackling tasks of the day after the studio/gym?

MS: The breathable fabrics are made to keep you cool and comfortable all day, when they are paired with the no-chafe stitching you’ll stay comfortable the entire day.

AM: Style, comfort and performance are key for activewear, what advanced technology and comfort features does MSX by Michael Strahan have?

MS: Every piece in the line has hidden details. We have the no-chafe seam details to keep you comfortable while you are moving or the UV protection so you will be protected all day long. My favorite details are the secret pockets. For example, I’m a golfer so I wanted the chino pants to looks stylish, yet be functional. We kept the left back pocket open so you can easily slip in your golf glove between swings and included a zipper on the right back pocket to keep valuables like wallet and phone.

AM: What are some of your must-haves that you keep in your secret pockets?

MS: I keep all the essentials in my pockets - money clip, keys, and sometimes my phone…when it’s not missing! haha

AM: Run us through some of your favorite routines when you’re in the gym. Have you carried over a lot from those grueling football practices? Do you take any studio classes to round out your training?

Pictures of Michael Strahan in athleisure attire, courtesy of JCP

MS: I usually work out for an hour 5/6 days a week. I don't do the same workout I did as a football player. Now I do exercises that are more conducive to mobility and flexibility. I still lift weights, but the exercises and amount that I lift are definitely different.

AM: What are some of the jams or artists that are your go-to’s for your workout playlist? Anything new you just started listening to?

MS: I listen to Bill Wither’s “Lovely Day” every morning before work. It’s the best way to start the day! I’m a creature of habit. I like to work out to Hip-Hop. Whatever's hot I listen to.

AM: How do you stay on top of daily nutrition, what are some of you favorite meal combinations and snacks that keep you lean and mean? What is that one irresistible treat item that you just crave and enjoy?

MS: I eat a lot of fish, chicken and turkey and fresh vegetables without the butter and other things that add sneaking calories into my diet. I have protein smoothies and hard boiled eggs along with nuts as well. I have a weakness for chocolate in any form so I do crave chocolate chip cookies and ice cream, but I only indulge occasionally.

AM: You are an inspiration for work ethic across the board, what does “being 100% present” mean to you?

MS: It means waking up happy and putting your best foot forward each and every day. A good friend of mine always says “dress shoes.” It makes me laugh, but I like the meaning behind it because it’s about “putting your best foot forward…and if you’re going to do that, you should literally be putting your best foot forward". I have to remember to put away the phone and stay in the moment. That's a hard test for everyone in this age of technology, but it really helps you to stay present if you can do it.

AM: Your best-selling book, “Wake Up Happy: The Dream Big, Win Big Guide to Transforming Your Life” shares a lot of personal stories and advice for personal ambitions and going from good to great. What is a tip or two to be on top of one’s game and keep on track in active lifestyle?

Photo (P.41) courtesy of Jerry Coli. Photo

MS: I draw upon the power of positive thinking often. Developing a routine always helps to keep you on track. And most of all, just remember to encourage yourself and give yourself a break if you need it. Don't be so hard on yourself if you're not perfect because none of us are.

AM: Hello Stuart, thanks for joining us. Tell our readers a bit about your background and how you came to be Creative Director, Men’s Private Label at JCPenney.

STUART BILLINGHAM: I have been in the industry for 15 years, both in the European & US markets, working on a variety of product ranging from surf/skate, outdoor, heritage and fast fashion. JCPenney was an amazing opportunity for me to work with a highly talented team and immerse myself in a number of different lifestyles through the amazing private labels exclusive to us here, including Arizona, Xersion and of course MSX by Michael Strahan.

AM: What are some of the lines that you have been able to create with personalities?

SB: MSX by Michael Strahan was the first line I have had the opportunity to collaborate with a major personality like Michael, so this idea of working with someone who had a strong idea that they wanted to bring to life was super exciting. 

AM: How did the collaboration with you and Michael Strahan come about and what is the process that goes into creating a line such as this?

SB: JCPenney and Michael have been working together on our suiting line, COLLECTION by MICHAEL STRAHAN so it felt natural to find something to balance that – with MSX we wanted comfort and performance attributes, but we didn't want to make it feel like a performance line. We want guys to wear it everyday, to integrate each piece into their lifestyle.

(P.142/143) courtesy of Frank Jansky/ZUMA Wire

AM: How was it to work with Michael?

SB: Michael was heavily involved in the design process and showed so much foresight when it came to the product. He has great vision and is obsessed about the details like I am, so we had fun geeking out over new ideas.

AM: What are some of the inspirations behind the line?

SB: This is Michael Strahan’s second apparel line with JCPenney and we pulled inspiration from his personal style and his active lifestyle as a father and one of America’s most recognizable athletes and media personalities.

AM: We hear Michael says “everyone should get one of each,” where is a good place to begin to jumpstart their wardrobe with some core essentials?

SB: The true core of the collection comes in our performance jersey styles. Anyone can build on our tees offered in crew neck, V-neck or sleeveless muscle, all with our no-chafe seam details and quick drying technology, so you will be comfortable all day. We also have great layer-ups in fleece and 4-way stretch fabrications that offer great outfitting capabilities.

AM: What are additional styles that will be in future collections?

SB: Together with Michael, we are continuing to evolve the line with new product, and have some very exciting things coming for the MSX collection for Fall 16. Stay tuned.

Photo (144/145) courtesy of Lev Radin.

BINGELY STREAMING

What does it take to be 1 of 500 people to have the chance to get a spot on Team USA for the Olympics? The journey includes years of preparation from international competitions, clinics, and sacrifice. 

This movie focuses on 5 athletes (who represent a diverse group of sports with an array of challenges that take place while they train), at various stages of their lives who share the dream of representing the US in Rio during the Olympics and the Paralympic games. The film showcases the wins, misses and humbling aspects that these dreams create for each individual.  

HAPPINESS IS
Karen Morey

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Karen Morey

Happiness, what is it and what does it mean to you? In this poetic documentary short, Karen Morey (directed, edited and shot) explores this narrative by asking a curated group of 8 people around the world that speak in their native tongue. 

Throughout this mini documentary, we hear and see vivid reflective discussions and imagery of how diverse people of many walks of life can see, feel, remember, and aspire. This short is available on Vimeo.

RUN MAMA RUN
Daniele Anastasion

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | ESPN

Sarah Brown is an athlete that is focused on coming to Rio for the 2016 Olympic games, and like many, she knows that the Olympic Trials are an important benchmark to get her there. Unlike other athletes, Sarah was pregnant heading into trials. Between the birth of her child and the competition she had a little over 3 months to get back into shape.

Run Mama Run is an ESPN W weekly short looking at her training throughout her training, setbacks she had during this time, and how she trained to be ready to join her team. Make sure to check in before July 27th to binge this series while it is still available on the site.

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TAKE A DIP AT THE GRIFFIN CLUB LA

We're in the middle of summer where being near the water is an essential for fun as well as to stay cool! Adulting can be tough and even we need to be reminded of pool safety! We talked with Aquatic Director, Susanna Lubinsky Of Griffin Club LA to make sure that we all know the do's of water safety!

ATHLEISURE MAG: Why is swimming a great activity for fitness and what are its benefits?

SUSANNA LUBINSKY: Swimming is very different from working out on land. Since water is over 700 times denser than air, swimming forces your body to constantly work through
resistance through muscular contraction. This kind of resistance training is unique in that it strengthens your skeletal muscles, improves your muscular mass and tone, and builds endurance while also strengthening your involuntary muscles, like your heart and lungs. Furthermore, since swimming is low impact, you can swim at higher intensities at a more regular basis without feeling the wear and tear that some land-based workouts may cause. Swimming is also a full body workout: training the large muscles of your back, core, shoulder and arms, glutes, hamstrings, wrists, ankles and feet, as well as many small, stabilizing muscles that other workouts miss. Swimming also affects your central nervous system, your sense of balance, proprioception, cognitive functioning, as well as your cardiovascular health.

AM: What tips would you provide to those that are adults that have never swam, but are looking to include this within their routine for fitness?

SL: Have fun and explore different pathways of movements. Not all adults have to swim traditional laps in order to get the physical benefits of working out in the water. If you’re a runner for example, try wearing a weighted belt, and go jogging through the water. It’s gentler on your joints while also giving the added benefit of a massage—as you move through water, it naturally channels and swirls, creating a whirlpool effect on the muscles. Also, don’t be shy to take a class or a lesson from a swim coach. They are like personal trainers; they will guide you to avoid bad habits and unnecessary injuries.

AM: Is swimming also therapeutic in terms of assisting in reducing injuries that may have taken place from other activities?

SL: Absolutely! Since it is a low impact sport, it’s easy on the joints and many physical therapists include swimming for rehabilitation. Furthermore, you get the added benefit of mental clarity and stress reduction. Being submerged in water has the benefit of sensory deprivation—all this means is that if you’re looking for a place of quiet and calm, diving under water may just do the trick. There is new research out there that shows the benefits of floatation tanks, relieving symptoms such as chronic anxiety.

AM: What are the best foods to eat before and after swimming and what should be avoided?

SL: What’s important to note here, is that everybody is different. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to experiment and notice which foods work for your body. An easy rule of thumb is you want to consume simple carbohydrates before exercising, like fruit, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or an energy bar, for quick, immediate fuel. It’s also super important to remember to stay hydrated, which many swimmers may not think about since they are immersed in water. Feed your body post workout with a lean protein to rebuild muscle as well as a complex carbohydrate, such as leafy green vegetables, rice, or pasta to replenish sugar levels.

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AM:  What are the benefits that swimming can provide?

SL: It’s an amazing lung strengthener, and who wouldn’t want strong, healthy lungs? When your body and face is immersed in water, there is greater pressure on the diaphragm and lungs, making oxygen a premium commodity. Therefore, the body learns to adapt with the pressures by optimizing the air it does take in, while expelling more carbon dioxide. This alone improves pulmonary health while increasing blood flow to the brain. Furthermore, studies have shown that regular swimmers have lower resting heart rates and blood pressure as well as greater elasticity in the lungs and skin.

AM: Are there injuries that are common to swimmers and how can you avoid this happening?

SL: The most common injury is the swimmer’s shoulder, which manifests most frequently with the freestyle stroke, and to a lesser degree with backstroke and butterfly. It shows up as inflammation and pain most often in the deltoids and rotator cuff. It is often caused by improper technique, excessive downward force of the arms, or pushing through against the onset of fatigue. 

Overtraining, unbalanced strength, such as with unilateral breathing, and the overuse of paddles can exacerbate the condition. Best prevention is make sure your swimming technique is sound. Take lessons with a qualified professional, brush up on drills, and pay attention to your body, rather than move from habituated patterns. Make sure you familiarize yourself with and incorporate hydrodynamic principles into your practice. Rest when you are tired, as overtraining tired muscles weakens the integrity of the small, stabilizing muscles. Also, it’s important to stretch the chest and strengthen your latissimus dorsi regularly.

AM: What are popular water sports that are available at Griffin Club?

SL: Griffin Club Los Angeles offers a Cross Training H20 class, a creative, fun and wet way to spice up your workout this summer. Taught by our Athletic Director Derek Capps and myself, participants are divided into 2 groups and alternate between land and water for an enhanced metabolic training experience. The land-based sequences are comprised of multi-joint movements like burpees, pushups, squats and jumps. The swimming portion will utilize a variety of strokes for an aerobic workout. Combining these two different workout methods will assure a high caloric burn both during and after the workout as well as improve overall performance. This class is suitable for all fitness and swimming levels. Griffin Club Los Angeles offers classes for children as well, including a Parent & Me swim class for children 6 months to 2.5 years of age.

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HER ROAD TO RIO

The Olympics™ are just around the corner and in addition to seeing our favorite athletes compete, it's also a great time to see former Olympians who have taken on new roles. We spoke with Nastia Liukin on the road during the Olympic Trials to talk gymnastics, commitment and her role as a commentator for NBC during the games at Rio!

ATHLEISURE MAG: Growing up in a family of Olympians, how did this craft your interest in the sport and how did you get into it?

NASTIA LIUKIN: Well, believe it or not, my parents didn't even want me to do gymnastics. They knew how hard it was and they just wanted their one and only child to be happy. But for me, my happiness came from gymnastics. I never wanted to leave the gym. I fell in love with the sport at such an early age.

AM: As someone who trained from an early age, how did this affect your outlook on life in terms of commitment, dedication etc?

NL: Commitment and dedication where both two major factors that helped me achieve my goals. Ever since I was a little girl, I knew I had to be committed in order to achieve those dreams. Nothing would be handed to me. I was never the strongest gymnast, so I had to work extremely hard on conditioning in order to perform a lot of the skills.

AM: What was your training like heading into the 2008 Olympic games and how did you maintain balance while you were at the games?

NL: Training heading into the 2008 Olympics ™ was pretty intense. 7 hours a day, 6 days a week (sometimes 7 days a week) depending on the competition schedule. I really didn't think or do too much else besides training, physically therapies, extra cardio or conditioning. My life revolved around the Olympics that entire year, and most years as well. But specifically 2008. 

I didn't want to look back in September of 2008 and think what if, what if I would have trained more, done more routines? Those thoughts started to haunt my mind, so I made sure to not let them creep into my mind too much.

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AM: As an athlete, you never know where your career will go, since then you have created clothing lines and been a spokesperson for other brands, how exciting has that transition been and do you have other projects coming up that you can tell us about?

NL: To be honest if you would have told me that 10 years ago, I would have never believed you. I started gymnastics because I had such a huge passion for the sport. It was never to make it a career or build a brand, or even win gold medals. I loved flipping, and learning new skills. It all gave me a thrill. Now at 26 years old, I look back at everything I have done and continue to do and am so thankful for it all. But, I do have to say it hasn't all been handed to me. I feel like it’s a full-time job trying to continue doing what I’m doing with my career and I’ve had the chance to work with some amazing people in the industry that have helped shape my career into what it is now. I am working on a few projects that I’m so thrilled to be working on, but for now I have to keep them a secret.

AM: We've listened to you commentating on the Men's and Women's Gymnastic Trials and know you are doing this throughout the games, how exciting is it to be the NBC Commentator for Gymnastics?

NL: I was so honored when NBC offered me this role. To be able to continue being involved in something I love so much has been incredible. It has definitely been a learning experience and with each time we are on air, I learn more and feel a little more confident. This is now my fourth year, but there is nothing like an Olympic™ Games. So I’m extremely excited for Rio!

AM: Going into Rio, who are your favorites for the US Men's and Women's team that you can't wait to see - who should we be watching out for?

NL: Simone Biles, without question, is the heavy favorite on the women’s side. She has the chance of winning 5 GOLD medals in Rio. Aly Raisman and Gabby Douglas are trying to make their second Olympic™ Team and have a great shot. So it will be a very fun competition on the women’s side.

On the men’s side, Sam Mikulak is the favorite for the US. He is the 4 time National Champion going into the Rio and will be competing in his second Olympic™ Games.

AM: As a gymnast who has competed on the Olympic™ stage, do you share any words of wisdom to the gymnasts that you share with them when you've been traveling with them?

NL: Most of them don’t need too much advice. They are more prepared, physically than they will ever be in their lives. But mentally, it’s important to stay calm and treat it like any other competition. Also, enjoy it. It goes by so quickly, you blink and it’s over.

AM: What are you looking forward to in Rio (whether within the gymnast category or outside of it)?

NL: Definitely the gymnastics but also getting a chance to see the other sports. When I was in Beijing, I didn't get that chance to go to other events, so I’m looking forward to that. I also love trying to experience the culture of every city/country I visit.

AM: What's it like when you've been on the circuit with the gymnast as a broadcaster?

NL: Well the current group of athletes I’ve known them and even competed with most of them. So I really have to remove myself from being friends with them and just do my job as an analyst. Of course I’ve been in their shoes, so I know how it feels when someone is a little too negative or could say something that really puts you down. I feel like there is a difference with analyzing something, even if it’s a fall, and being negative.

AM:  What do you do in terms of your personal training and how is it different than when you competed?

NL:  Well it’s definitely quite a bit different now. I used to train 7 hours a day, 6 days a week. Now I workout about 4 times a week for about 30-60 minutes, depending on my schedule. I’m on the road a lot so that makes it difficult, but not impossible. I love mixing it up. Pilates, yoga, spinning, circuit training.

AM: How do you stay balanced with your busy schedule to ensure that you take the time that you need for yourself?

NL: I always make sure to take time in the morning, even if I have a busy day ahead. I like waking up extra early to have my coffee, get in a workout, even if it’s only 20 minutes. That keeps me balanced and make me feel great the rest of the day too.

AM: What's your personal style (items that you would wear when running errands, heading out to brunch and/or for a night out on the town)?

NL: As much as I love dressing up for events, red carpets and photo shoots, my day to day life is definitely athleisure wear. From the gym to running errands to brunch, I love Stella McCartney for Adidas. She’s one of my favorite designers both in the sports world and fashion world.

Read more from the July Issue