ATHLEISURE LIST | SOULCYCLE: VARIOUS US CITIES + CANADA

When you think of fitness studios that you have heard of from a number of friends and co-workers, SoulCycle is always in the conversation with it's mind, body, soul focus and music that makes cycling here an experience. We chatted with SoulCycle and Senior Instructor, Sydney Miller to find out more!

ATHLEISURE MAG: How long has SoulCycle been around?

SOULCYCLE: SoulCycle has been around since April 2006 -- it started as one studio on New York City's Upper West Side and has since grown to 72 studios and counting! 

AM: We know that you recently opened a location in Austin and Bellevue - what are the next ones that we should keep an eye out for?

SC: We always look for active and dynamic communities to be a part of so we are very excited to now be in Austin and Bellevue. We are opening our first international studio in Toronto on March 2nd and have more Canadian studios opening soon as well.

AM: You guys have a great series of amenities available - what are some of the brands that one can find in your bathrooms?

SC: We always seek to provide a seamless experience for our riders and provide everything they need so our locker rooms are stocked with every amenity a rider could need, our front desks have hair ties, ear plugs, gum and more. We have also teamed up with local skin care companies in new markets to offer their products to our riders. In Bellevue, we have Herbivore Botanicals' incredible products in both of women's and men's locker rooms. Similarly, we have milk + honey in our downtown Austin studio and look forward to providing Saje products in our first Toronto location.

AM: There are so many choices for SoulCycle gear - are these all internal brands and do you also have collaborative brands as well - are there upcoming collabs we should be looking out for?

SC: SoulCycle produces 14 collections each year with 60+ pieces in each one. For the month of March, we are celebrating acceptance, collaboration and love as our collection is themed around the Army of Love. During a time of polarizing views and alienating sentiments, SoulCycle continues to be a sanctuary and a community of acceptance. SoulCycle is a workout to some, a community to most, and a safe harbor to all. We stand for acceptance, collaboration, and love. As team members and riders, we're a coalition of conscience - respect and compassion are practices we cultivate daily. We not only embrace each other's differences, we celebrate them.

Our studios are sanctuaries of unity, where we all ride together as a pack. We take that energy into the world, where we lift each other up. We are an Army of Love. 

AM: When people are not in the midst of a class at SoulCycle - how can they still stay connected as a community?

SYDNEY MILLER: SoulCycle naturally lends itself to a community experience through the entire studio. Riders often become friends by going to the same classes week to week and building connection from the locker room to the studio. From juices after class, brunch, or trying a new fitness experience, riders can take the SoulCycle experience to other areas of their active lifestyle.

AM: What is the ethos of SoulCycle?

SM: SoulCycle is all about connecting mind and body to the music. We ride as a pack because we know there is strength in numbers. We support each other and get stronger together.

AM: We liked how you went about selecting a great class for us by asking what music we liked (our Kaskade x Swedish House Mafia theme ride was epic) - is this the suggested method that someone new to this ecosystem should follow?

SM: The music is what makes the entire experience, so it's important to go with an instructor who plays the kind of music you're into. There's really an instructor for everyone and each of us brings a different perspective to the table. On the website, you can see on each instructors' profile what kind of music they play and a little bit about them. It's fun to try different classes and then figure out what lights you up the most.
 
 SOULCYCLE

• Check for current and upcoming studios in the US and Canada here. 

Read more from the Feb issue and see the entire Athleisure List article in the magazine.

IN AND OUT OF THE RING DANIELLE MOINET X SUMMER RAE

Our readers are STRONG, SEXY & SPOILED and of course, that means those that grace our covers and are featured in our pages embody this spirit as well! The world of the WWE includes some of the toughest athletes with dynamic personas and ever changing storylines that keep their fans waiting to see more every week! 

The ladies of the WWE are an elite powerhouse that represents vixens and villains. For those that need an extra dose (know and love this world) of the ladies, E! Networks' Total Divas - allowed viewers to see their lives in and out of the ring. Episodes showcase the ladies in the relationships, training, their personality, their personas and more. Our initial introduction to Summer Rae came during the second season of this show.

Summer Rae is a WWE athlete who fights in the RAW brand. Playing a villain role, she has won a number of single and tag team matches which keeps the crowds wanting more. Outside of the ring, Danielle Moinet is the complete opposite of her character; but, she shares the athletic sensibility as her career includes being a former professional football player as a cornerback for Lingerie Football League's Chicago Bliss (in addition to being a professional wrestler and wrestling manager). This Manhasset, LI native is also a model and actress who took the time to chat with us about her athletic career; what it's like to be a part of the WWE; the importance of giving back and insight into who Danielle is!

|  PHOTO COURTESY WWE |  

ATHLEISURE MAG: We love seeing you in the ring and being on E!'s Total Divas. Tell us about your career leading up to the WWE, as we know you played football, were the face of the Lingerie Football League, and you were an ambassador for Nascar's Bobby Labonte's team - how did this all come together with your love of sports?

DANIELLE MOINET: I have always been a fan of sports, both watching sports and playing sports. Growing up, I danced for many years and then I also ran track, jumped hurdles and played tennis. I’ve always had an athletic background and spent a lot of time in the gym in college. Playing football was definitely very fun. It was full contact seven on seven football. The ladies of the LFL hit hard. It’s not a gimmick. I’ve always had a passion for wrestling and loved watching it. I went to Monday Night Raw and watched it in the audience and thought, “Wow I can do that and I think I can do it well.” I decided to try out for WWE.

AM: We grew up in the 80's watching the WWE, when did you realize this was what you wanted to do and what was the process like to get to the ring?

DM: The thing that I love about WWE is everyone has a story. Everyone has someone they watched growing up. With me, my dad has no sons, only daughters, and I’m the oldest. I watched with my dad on Saturday mornings and when I was an adult I would sit at home and watch Monday Night Raw. I loved the soap opera! I became a fan again after college and that’s when I realized I wanted to submit. Now with NXT, Triple H has given people a great outlet to submit their resume and portfolio and be able to try to become a WWE Superstar. 

AM: We see the physicality that is needed to be a Diva, while also being able to be a total boss by being glam. It's such a unique sport that allows both - how is Danielle Moinet similar and different to Summer Rae?

DM: Very good question! Some people like to form their WWE persona based on an extension of themselves. For me it’s the total opposite. Summer Rae is everyone I wanted to be growing up: all of the girls I wasn’t and all of the things I wanted to say to people that I couldn't because I was too nice. Summer Rae is a conniving egotistical villain who will do whatever she needs to do to get what she wants. That’s why it’s so much fun to play her! I have never once been a good guy in WWE and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

|  PHOTOGRAPHY Vince Trupsin | MUAH Stella Kae | 

AM: This summer, we worked out with you and additional Divas during Summer Slam at Tapout here in NYC - between matches and doing PR events what is the schedule like when you're traveling and how are you able to balance your day to day life with that?
 
DM: Wow! That’s so cool that you came and worked out with us! That was the first time we had tried anything like that and my first time teaching an exercise class! It was inspiring to talk to different women. It was a special event for me. It's hard to find balance and in 2017 that is what I am going after. Balance. It is hard being a Superstar, being on the road 300 days a year filming and working events on your off days. Traveling and everything that comes with it is really hard. Having a group of people, whether they are family or friends that ground you when you’re home, it's important on those off days to step away from work. Otherwise, you will lose who you are. It’s something I’ve struggled with in the past and its something I am really working towards in 2017.

AM: As an athlete, the physicality of the sport is demanding, what does your workout day look like when you're preparing to be in the ring versus when you have down time?

DM: Very good question! I've never had someone ask me this in an interview! I train very differently on days when I have a match versus days I don't. I don’t do my legs as much on days I have a match. I save my cardio days for TV. Sleep is the most important thing in this business. I like to do circuit training so I don’t overstimulate one body part. When you bump and have five matches in a week you’re going to be sore.

AM: Recovery is always essential when you're working out - we're fans of foam rollers, KT Therapy ice packs etc, what do you have on hand for a little TLC for your body?

DM: Recovery is very important. The number one thing I find that helps is sleep and I am the first person to say I don’t sleep nearly enough. On the off days I will force myself to sleep. Massage is something really great. I live by a great chiropractor and physical therapist. In Los Angeles, I have gone to PEAK Wellness and I have absolutely loved the practice. The people there have been so amazing to me. Dennis at PEAK is so amazing and I’ve loved working with them.

|  PHOTOGRAPHY Vince Trupsin | MUAH Stella Kae | 

AM: What is your favorite moment in the ring and who has been your favorite partner?

DM: My favorite moment in the ring is actually not a wrestling match. It was when I got to write my own promo and do it for everyone. It was in Chicago where I was living at the time. I got to break up with Rusev on screen. I really felt it and felt so fortunate that they let me write it. It was so amazing and the crowd was so behind me. It gives me chills to think about.

My favorite person to wrestle is Nattie. I always loved wrestling her. She’s someone who challenges me and made me try to be better every time I stepped in the ring with her. I also love Sasha Banks. The chemistry we have is amazing!
 
AM: Besides your life as an athlete, what other passions do you have as we know you have acted?

DM: Being in the Marine 4 was an amazing opportunity. I loved being on set and learning the way that works! Being in more films and being able to act is a goal. I love the idea of having an amazing day and channel different emotions into my work. It is such a talent to be able to do that and of course that is something I would love to do and love to study more. Being able to publicly speak and host as well and spread positivity.
 
AM: When you have personal time how do you take time for you to center yourself?
 
DM: Personal time is something that I am trying to work on more and have more of, and give myself. Being able to center myself is having a good support system. I center myself by going into the gym and having a great workout and catching up on some of my favorite shows. Taking time for me. Our personal time is so few and far between, that it’s something I really have to cherish when I have it.  

|  PHOTO COURTESY WWE |  

AM:  What is your personal style from what you wear when you workout, when you're going out to brunch and for a night out with your friends? 

DM: My personal style ranges. I live in workout clothes and I can be a tomboy. The word ATHLEISURE definitely suits me. I’m always in my hat on my day off, because I hate wearing makeup.  I have to let my skin breathe. Workout clothes all day! Whatever fits and is comfy. I love the girly side too and get styled. My style is very diverse.
 
AM: Clearly, you have a great body! What are 3 exercises that we can incorporate for great legs, arms and abs?

DM: For me, something that I started in the Fall that I had never tried before was Pilates. I had a lot of restrictions from wrestling as far as my mobility and neck. The thing I love about Pilates is that it's 50 minutes and it's full body, but you also use weights. I’ve tried a lot of different exercises. Pilates really helps shape my arms legs and abs. I had never done a plank until Pilates and now I see it in my shoulders and abs. It's long and lengthening. Pilates gives me the flexibility and is so safe on the joints and knees. It’s something I really have to think about. You can find all three in Pilates.
 
AM: When it comes to getting energy before a workout what do you suggest we should eat?

DM: Some people are very different when it comes to eating before working out. Some people like to eat and some people like to be empty. I like to be full. I don’t like my stomach growling. I like to eat a high protein meal. I prefer fats and carbs in each meal I eat. Having a good piece of chicken or turkey meat, a good 25/35 gms of protein. You don’t have to get fancy when it comes to caffeine pre workout. Black coffee is great. You can’t beat a double shot of espresso or a black coffee before you work out. I always have a shake right after I work out to get my protein in.

|  PHOTO COURTESY WWE |  

AM: When you're having a bit of a splurge, what is a treat that we can enjoy that tastes decadent, but isn't really that bad for you?

DM: I have a sweet tooth. Something for me that I crave is ice cream like crazy and want it all the time. Instead, I buy the fat - free Cool Whip from the market and freeze it. Then it’s like fake ice cream. I just need a little bit. It’s no fat or carbs and not nearly as bad as ice cream. I find myself only having one or two spoonfuls. It gives me that satisfaction. 

AM: What charities or foundations do you work with and tell us about them.

DM: I work with the DTM Foundation which was started and by my sister Nicolette Moinet. They work with medically fragile children at UNC and Duke hospital. Anytime I’m back home in North Carolina I love to help them in any way I can whether it be hospital visits or the comfort cooks program. We make food for the families that are basically living at the hospital with their children. With WWE, we are so fortunate to work with so many other great initiatives include our anti-bullying program Be a STAR, Special Olympics, Make a Wish, Susan G. Komen and so many others. 

Read more from the Feb Issue and the In and Out of the Ring Danielle Moinet X Summer Rae feature specifically here.

ATHLEISURE MAG | FEB 2017

We're excited to share the release of our Feb issue with Danielle Moinet aka WWE's Summer Rae on the cover as we chat about her athletic career, her workouts, and more. This month's issue focusing on the love of a number of things also includes a number of food editorials including Cochon555 as well as another Athleisure Kitchen at Dos Caminos (just in time for taco Tues).

See the full issue here!

NYFW FW17 | LACOSTE

And just like that NYFW FW17 is over but of course, this week we'll share a number of our favorite shows from this past season. Although LACOSTE will be showing in Paris starting with their SS18 collections they shared their FW17 line here in NYC. A number of men's and women's looks in earthy tones with a sci-fi flair and plaid a la 90's Kurt Cobain's Nirvana.

PHOTOS COURTESY Umberto Fratini / indigital.tv

IN OUR BAG POST WORKOUT

After an intense workout, you want to make sure that you get to have a proper rest to allow your body the time it needs to look its best! These are the perfect items to have on hand for your each and every studio session.

| DOVE Advanced Care Invisible Sheer Fresh 48h | SUNDAY CATS Freezie Pops in Watermelon, Pineapple and Strawberry Lemonade | KT RECOVERY+ Ice/Heat | COACH Rogue Satchel | SKINDINAVIA Post Makeup Recovery Spray | HYDROPEPTIDE Stimulating Relief Balm |

Read more from the Jan Issue.

ON AIR | KEEP YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE WHEN TRAVELING

There's no excuse to stop working out or to change what you do due to equipment available in hotel gyms etc. Our Style Director, Kimmie Smith shared what she brings with her in her carryon to continue working out whether she's gone overnight OR for a few days! She appeared on The Jet Set with host Nikki Noya to share finds. Check your local station to see whether it's on CW, FOX etc in your area.

ON THE SEGMENT | TRX TRX Go Suspension Training | MANDUKA Yoga Travel Mat | W8FIT Wrist Weights | DYLN Alkaline Water Bottle | TOE SOX | SKLZ Jumprope + Gliders | MIEL Sport Bra + Underwear | AIR REPAIR SKINCARE Air Repair Kit | LO ROX Foam Travel Roller | SAJE Pocket Farmacy | VERA BRADLEY Packable Cube | HERSCHEL SUPPLY Bag | KARL LAGERFELD PARIS Sneakers |

WHAT KIMMIE'S WEARING | BELOFORTE Long Sleeve Shirt | FOREVER 21 X LA LAKERS Tank | 90 DEGREE BY REFLEX Rose Gold Leggings | ADIDAS Superstar | SHE'S KIMMIE Stacked Beaded Bracelets | MISFIT Ray | OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE COSMETICS Alt Girl Lip Tar | SALLY HANSEN Wine Stick in Miracle Gel |

ATHLEISURE LIST | FITFUSION NYC

When you don't feel like working out outside of your home or you're traveling and don't want to miss your workout, there is a solution. FitFusion is the leading online workout streaming platform that allows you to access hundreds of different kinds of workouts, lead by the most sought-after trainers in the world. Created by Jillian Michaels, FitFusion has you covered with everything from pilates to weight-training to cardio. With FitFusion you can workout whenever and wherever you want, AND you can do any kind of workout that you’re in the mood for that day.  

Not only are you getting workouts led by the top trainers in the business, FitFusion also allows you to customize your workouts to keep things interesting and dynamic, giving you the most effective training possible. FitFusion has a wide variety of workouts, all lead be some of the best trainers in the world and shot with the finest production quality. It's a place you can go for great workouts by great trainers to give you the results you want!

You can find very basic beginner workouts, as well as intense total body HIIT
workouts, and everything in between! This makes it possible for anyone to find a workout that challenges them on any level.

For only $9.99/month, FitFusion members have unlimited access to any type of workout at any level. No matter what your fitness goals, FitFusion has what you need. There's even a free 2 week trial if you'd like to check them out to see how it works for you. 

Today you could do a killer full-body workout with Jillian Michaels, tomorrow you could do HIIT training with Zuzka Light, and the next you could do yoga with Tara Stiles. FitFusion's on-demand streaming premium workouts are available via the site, app, Chromecast, Roku, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, AT&T, Bell TV, DIRECTV, and U-verse. 

FitFusion will continue to add more videos to the platform such as the recent addition of Tone & Shred. This new series is a collaboration between Jillian Michaels and the founders of Tone It Up, Karena Dawn and Katrina Scott. This workout is exclusive to the streaming network.

The power packed fitness series includes three one-of-a-kind workouts: Tone & Shred: Total Body, Tone & Shred: Bikini Booty, and Tone & Shred: Abs. Each 20-minute workout combines techniques from the most popular, effective fitness modalities – HIIT, Yoga, Pilates, dynamic resistance training and more – to provide heart-thumping, body shredding variety and incredible results.   

We caught up with the Tone It Up ladies to find out more about Tone & Shred.

ATHLEISURE MAG: How is Tone It Up different then Tone & Shred?

KARENA DAWN: Tone & Shred combined our two styles to create a cohesive workout that works for both of our audiences. Jillian is known for really high intensity, while ours is amazing for toning, but also just having a great time. Together, we created workouts that not only bumped up the intensity and sculpting, but will make you laugh and feel like you’re just hangin’ out with your gal pals!

AM: How did the collaboration between you and Jillian Michaels come about to create this method?

KATRINA SCOTT:  Jillian, Katrina, and I had dinner a while back and we decided… why not do this?! Jillian loves the Tone It Up Community and she has always been such a fitness icon to us. We wanted to make something that combined both of our styles for a totally killer, amazing sweat sesh.

AM: Having this on FitFusion and being able to mix both of your followers together, how is that a benefit to your brand and your platform of fun fitness?

KD: We’re always looking to expand our brand to new audiences and other fitness-minded individuals. The Tone It Up Community is growing everyday with more and more totally boss babe women and we’re just so excited to see new faces - yes, we Instagram stalk ALL of our girls ;)

AM: Within Tone & Shred, what is your favorite move that you were able to add?

KD: There’s a bunch of totally different, sweat worthy moves in these workouts, but one of my favorites is the ninja burpee. It was by far the most challenging move of the series but it was so fun to learn and a female competitor will be chosen. 

 
Read more from the Jan Issue.

GOOD A WELLNESS FESTIVAL

This Spring, we've got GOOD news. Our Style Director, Kimmie Smith will be a part of The GOOD Festival in April. What’s GOOD? It’s an entire day dedicated to health and wellness - a festival dedicated to feeling GOOD and creating a life that fulfills you.

Join our Style Director this year in Philly. To put it simply, The GOOD Fest includes: good vibes, a kickass workout, serious inspiration from those in the wellness space, great food, and an unbelievable sense of community. GOOD is an event that will challenge and excite you - and leave you happier, healthier, and more fulfilled than when you arrived. 

THE GOOD FEST
- All-day experience
- Date: April 22, 2017 // Location: Skybox Event, Philadelphia, PA
- Community of like minded women
- Work out and fresh lunch included
- Swag Bag (over $100.00 in product)
- Incredible Speakers 

LUKE BRACEY GETS EXTREME

This month, we attended the launch party for POLO RED which announced the new face, Luke Bracey, for the high selling cologne. We took a few moments to find out about the actor who has been in a number of movies including, the Point Break as well as Hacksaw Ridge, which is enjoying a lot of buzz during this awards season.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was it like being selected for POLO RED?

LUKE BRACEY: The process of becoming the face of POLO RED has been so enjoyable and fun. I’m so honored to be the new face of POLO RED – being part of such an iconic brand is truly a privilege. Having the opportunity to work with Bruce Weber was also a great experience. He's a beautiful man and is so talented.
 
AM: What are your duties as the face of POLO RED?

LB: As the face of POLO RED I truly live and breathe the fragrance – I focus on bringing the speed, adrenaline, power of the POLO RED EXTREME lifestyle to men everywhere. Next I'll be joining the Ralph Lauren Fragrances team in Madrid to help kick off the global launch of the fragrance.
 
AM: Say 3 words describing POLO RED.

LB: Endurance, adrenaline, boundary-pushing. 
 
AM: You're a busy man as you were in the remake of Point Break, you were in Hacksaw Ridge which had a lot of buzz this awards season, what movie will we see you in next?

LB: I’ve got a couple of movies in the pipeline, but being the face of POLO RED is the role that I’m really focusing on right now.
 
AM: You're in great shape, besides surfing what workouts do you do?

LB: I’m very no-nonsense when it comes to fitness. I do 100 push-ups and 100 sit-ups every day. When I get to the gym, I like to keep it pretty basic and my routine tends to vary. Sometimes I go through periods where I go to the gym 5 days a week, and then take a few weeks off and before getting back into it. It’s all about balance.

AM: How do you give time to yourself?

LB: One of my favorite things to do is read. Right now I’m reading a great book called "Prisoners of Geography" by Tim Marshall. It’s a captivating book about how geography still plays a pivotal role in politics today. Even though it's 2017, geography is still the biggest factor. In addition to reading, I like to be in the water as much as possible. I try to go surfing and swim as much as I can.
 
AM: What's your personal style?

LB:  My style is pretty relaxed - I'm a tee shirt and jeans guy most of the time. I love my Blundstone boots, they’re definitely a staple in my personal style. When I’m hanging out with friends I’m usually in board shorts and flip flops.

IN THE STUDIO WITH Y7'S SARAH LEVEY

Athleisure Culture is all about how the different lifestyles come together and it lends itself to some pretty amazing mashups. We took a moment to chat with Y7's founder, Sarah Levey who has merged yoga and hip-hop together through her classes which have a great following of enthusiasts, who enjoy studio classes on the west and east coasts! In addition, she is a part of Cole Haan's StudiøGrand campaign,  so it was the perfect time to talk with her about her involvement in this collaboration, how she came about creating Y7 and how she keeps it together. 

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about how you came to be involved in the Cole Haan StudiøGrand campaign? 

SARAH LEVEY: As a young and self-funded woman I know every step I take needs to have meaning. Cole Haan reached out to me and pitched their StudiøGrand campaign concept… I knew immediately it would be a fit for me and the Y7 Studio. And it’s certainly been fun!

AM: What is StudiøGrand? 

SL: StudiøGrand is a versatile women’s lifestyle collection born out of a need to fit the active on-the-go woman from the studio to work and everywhere in between. Making every step count, the collection features understated minimalist silhouettes and items such as outerwear, shoes, bags, water bottles, yoga mats - it’s a complete lifestyle collection.

AM: How does this campaign align with your brand and way that you go about your day to day? 

SL: StudiøGrand is a great fit for Y7 as the collection offers style and function. So often my clients are trying to squeeze so much out of their day (work, kids, dating, etc) and this collection makes it possible for them to make the most out of every step. The collection is both stylish and comfortable, so you can wrap up a great yoga session at my studio and then head off to brunch with the girls.

AM: Tell us about Y7 Studio and what made you create this method of fitness. 

SL: I love music. It is so powerful. For me it can elevate, motivate and relax my mood depending on the beat or song. I thought why not take two things I love and put them together. There are no rules for this. It's an opportunity for the client to work on what they want to focus on. If they want to make the flow harder and add in poses great, if they want to take it easy that day that’s good too. It's all about giving our clients the freedom they are craving in that moment.

AM: What should we keep our eye out for as we go into the spring in terms of new offerings that will be available at the studio whether it's a new location here in NYC, class etc?

SL: We are trying to take over! You can expect a ton of new merch collections dropping monthly, plus we will be opening more locations in NYC and LA.

AM: How do you stay balanced in the midst of running a business (especially with your significant other - which we understand that very well), being a Boss Babe and leaving time for yourself?

SL: It’s definitely challenging. I am almost always overwhelmed with emails, meetings and check-ins with my staff. What has been a game changer for me is putting our corporate team in place. Alex (Director of Operations), Melanie (Retail Coordinator), Natalie (HR) and Stephanie (Teaching Director) are incredible and really help keep me focused and hold me accountable. I also recently set a bedtime and do a nightly meditation routine just so I can take some personal time. It’s not much, but I am working on taking more time for myself so I can be the best possible person for my team.

AM: What are your favorite pieces from this StudiøGrand collection?

SL: The StudiøGrand Bomber for sure! It's the perfect weight and easy for layering. And to top it off, I got to wear it in the campaign shoot! The shoes are so comfortable and stylish as well. The entire collection is extremely versatile.

See additional notables that were tapped to be a part of this campaign including: New York City Ballet's  Principal Dancer Sarah Mearns and Model, Entrepreneur and Author Coco Rocha.

Read more from the Jan Issue.

SUPER BOWL STYLE

On February 5th, Super Bowl Sunday hits Houston, TX with the Atlanta Falcons and the New England Patriots. In addition, we're all excited about Lady Gaga when she hits the stage for this year's half time show.

If you can't get to the game, or Houston, we suggest watching at American Whiskey at 247 W 30th St NY, NY 10001 to cheer on your team, as well as to get great eats!

YANDY Pullover Hoodie

ADIDAS Superstar

90 DEGREE BY REFLEX Leggings

| YANDY Raw Edge Pullover Hoodie | ADIDAS Superstar Silver Toe | 90 DEGREE BY REFLEX  Ankle Mesh Ring Leggings - Black Label Collection |

Read more from the Jan Issue.

CYCLE BOUND WITH BRYAN VOLTAGGIO + DUFF GOLDMAN

This May, 300 notable chefs and food industry professionals will come together for the annual Chef's Cycle for No Kid Hungry. The third annual ride includes a number of your favorite chefs, and as many are in training mode now, we took a moment with to chat with James Beard Award nominee Bryan Voltaggio of Volt, Voltaggio Brothers Steakhouse (MD) and Range (MD) and Charm City Cakes and Food Network's Duff Goldman to see how they came to participate, their training and what they eat when they need a boost.

AM: How long have you worked with No Kid Hungry and why?

BRYAN VOLTAGGIO: I have been working with No Kid Hungry since 2004, and I began by hosting fundraising dinners for them in Washington, D.C. when I was working for Charlie Palmer. As a chef, we are asked to do so much work with different charities. That’s when it really clicked for me -- as I moved forward in my career, I wanted to attach to something measurable and achievable, and No Kid Hungry helped me do that. Feeding our country’s kids is something we can actually accomplish; I cook for a living as well, so I feel like I have a stake in the game. I am not a doctor, scientist, or politician. I cannot cure diseases, but I can help end childhood hunger in America. Since deciding to focus my efforts on one goal, I have had the opportunity to see change happen, be a part of the conversation, and meet some incredible people who share this same passion. Billy and Debbie Shore (cofounders of Share Our Strength, the organization behind No Kid Hungry) have remained the humble champions of this movement and have managed to put together a force that will certainly see the end to this problem. It is their leadership and commitment that is so inspiring.

DUFF GOLDMAN: I've been working with No Kid Hungry for almost 10 years. What's most important to me is that we are chefs, and our job by definition is feeding people. No Kid Hungry works to feed hungry kids, so the fact that so many people in the culinary community actively support them isn't surprising. Most of the work I do on and off camera is with kids. Kids not getting enough to eat, especially in this country with our vast resources, is appalling to me, so anything I can do to get kids fed so they can focus on being kids is the most impactful thing I can do as a chef and as a person.

AM: How long have you been in Chef Cycle and what are you excited about?

BV: This is my third year riding in Chefs Cycle for No Kid Hungry. I am by no means a veteran and or pro at this. I bought a bike before the first Chefs Cycle ride from NYC to D.C. in 2014, and I put maybe 100-200 miles on the bike before heading up to the start. We left NYC that first morning, and I asked myself, "What the hell are you getting yourself into?" I somehow made the trip -- the whole trip -- and I have never felt a better sense of accomplishment in my life. I became hooked. This year, I look forward to seeing more first-timers and sharing my story in hopes to inspire them to make the trip. I want to see everyone hit their expectations and goals,  and if I can lend a hand, that will be the most rewarding.    

DG: This will be my second year participating in Chefs Cycle for No Kid Hungry. It's amazing how in just a year I have been consumed by riding my bike. I've always loved riding bikes as a kid, but I am the farthest thing from any kind of endurance athlete. Road biking was always a mystery to me, but now that I have been doing it regularly, it has changed my life. Mentally, I always do better on days when I've ridden. Riding centers me, allows me to daydream and work stuff out, and gets me out of the kitchen/studio and into the sunshine. Physically, I've dropped about 30 pounds since this time last year, and I've noticed a significant improvement in my cardiovascular fitness. I have more energy, I'm in a better mood, and my body just craves good food. When I'm riding every day, I eat clean effortlessly. The thought of a cheeseburger right now is almost gross...almost.

The other thing I love about cycling is how welcoming the other really good cyclists have been. Jeff Mahin, Bryan Voltaggio, Chris Cosentino, and Jason Roberts are all really good cyclists and far from being elitist, which is a fear I think lots of people have etting into cycling. Don't believe it. Everyone at the bike store is really cool, I promise. My best memory from last year's ride was when I was struggling to get up some hills, and Jeff and Jason took turns riding next to me with their hands on my back and helped me up. It was really amazing to see how cycling can be a team sport. Last year, I had no expectations of how well I would do on the ride, and I ended up completing just shy of 100 miles in three days. As I've been training this year, I've gotten close to 70 miles in a day, so I guess I would say my goal this year is to get to 200. That may not sound like much to the really good cyclists out there, but for me that would be a monster effort.

AM: What do you listen to in training?
 
BV: I am currently training in the basement of my home. I live in Maryland, and right now it’s wet, cold, and we could get snow. So I cheat a bit while riding on the trainer and catch up on ESPN and or watch a movie, since my actual human trainer makes me ride for more than an hour and a half at a time. 

DG: Zeppelin. Lots of Zeppelin. Also Junip, Flaming Lips, Aesop Rock, ATCQ, Explosions in the Sky, Mogwai, Jose Gonzalez, Fu Manchu, QOTSA, Coltrane, Fela Kuti. RATM and, some other stuff.

AM: How are you training for this ride and are you an avid cyclist?

BV: I can’t call myself an avid cyclist -- I call myself a “want-to-be” avid cyclist. I want to incorporate riding into my daily schedule and commute more this year. I work so much that I cannot go for those long to stay on the bike daily and ride shorter – two to three times per day maybe. 

DG: I'm not following a specific training routine other than riding my bike for as long as I can as often as possible. So far, I've been sticking to the beach where it's relatively flat, but once I am doing good strong 50 mile rides consistently, I'm going to be tackling hills. Yay. 

AM: What is the best Power Breakfast you can eat when you're about to ride?

BV: I have shakes with fruit and protein in mornings -- my wife encourages that. On some days, eggs simply on a couple pieces of whole grain bread and avocado do the trick. 

DG: For me it's two eggs, turkey or fish, and mixed fruit. Usually pineapple, oranges, mangoes, apples, watermelon, a quart of water, and a big ol' coffee. 

AM: What on the go snacks do you eat when you're looking for energy?

BV: I like to make bars with dried figs, nuts and seeds that I can pack easily in my kit. I also really like Justin’s packaged nut butters. The flavors are great, they are easy to eat on the ride. I want my nutrition on the bike to be as delicious as possible. I like to mix it up.

DG: I always ride with a backpack on, so packing heavier stuff isn't an issue. I only eat fruit on a ride. I like oranges, because it reminds me of soccer games when I was a kid, and also I get a nice break peeling the orange as opposed to just sucking on some gel. There's also a great poke joint in Venice Beach that I sometimes treat myself to.

AM: How do you stay fit in general?

BV: Fit, hmmmm how do you define that -- HA! I spend as much time on the bike as I can. I hate to run, even though I played soccer for 14 years of my life growing up. Maybe that’s why I was the goalkeeper...

DG: I love lifting. All the sports I played in High School and college were very explosive. Football, ice hockey, and lacrosse, so lifting has been part of my life since I was 14. But adding cycling to the routine has been incredible. I feel much more balanced, and my workouts in the gym have become much more effective because my muscles give out before my lungs do. That's huge.

AM: How do you juggle your busy schedule and take time for yourself?

BV: It’s most important for me to figure out how to juggle my family life with everything I have going on. Work is easy to balance, because while I have a bunch of restaurants, I also have a great team that supports them. I am lucky to have a great team that helps ease the stress of operating a business. Working as a chef means that I am working while most families are have dinner together, so I make sure to carve out special time with my family and fit in time to stay on the bike. That is why in 2017, I plan to commute more via two wheels. I have spent time in Copenhagen, Denmark, and if they can do it in that climate, I can do it here. 

DG: It's almost impossible, but the only way is to be disciplined in your allocation of time. If I let work have me, it will take every waking moment. It's just a decision that you have to make to take the time to get on your bike. The snooze button is the absolute enemy. When that alarm goes off...GET UP.

Read more from the Jan Issue.

I WANT YOUR HEART

Our cover shoot took place at DOGPOUND, NYC's hottest new gym. This boxing haven brings celebrities, Victoria's Secret Angels, models, athletes, and those that are truly enthusiastic about perfecting their look. DOGPOUND has become the prime location where this all comes together through their focus on training members through personalization of their individual goals.

After spending the afternoon shooting here for our anniversary issue, we had some questions for this temple of fitness. What started from a group of workout buddies, has grown into DOGPOUND founded by Kirk Myers.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Can you tell us how DOGPOUND came to be before coming to your present location in Tribeca? 

KIRK MYERS: DOGPOUND was originally called Kirk Fitness. I was working as a personal trainer, but my business started growing really rapidly. It was then I met Breylis Pena, who wanted to become a trainer, and we formed a group in the morning made up of clients who wanted to workout but didn't have a lot of time during the day. We started calling ourselves DOGPOUND. At the time we were renting space out of multiple gyms, but it wasn't long before we outgrew the spaces--even getting kicked out. So, we decided to build our own. 

AM: What is DOGPOUND and what is the meaning behind the name? 

KM: Some of our clients started bringing their dogs to the workouts. 

AM: What is your background and what led you to create this studio? 

KM: I was a chunky kid, but my health took a pretty big downturn when I suffered from heart failure. I knew I would need to make some pretty serious changes. I started working out, I started to see the results, they wanted to work out with me. My training business started to grow. I started at 23, and I've always been an independent trainer. I realized that in order to be the top trainers in the world, we needed our own home base. 

AM: It's clear that beyond being a studio and a method, that it is a culture - what about it has made it a destination for models, celebrities, etc as a place to get the physique that your members want? 

KM: I think there's a couple reasons why. It's because we are so passionate about what we do, and people see that and recognize it. That type of energy is infectious. We are in an up and coming neighborhood, we want our clients to feel safe and comfortable in the space and we are results oriented. We've created a community, so most of the celebrities and models who workout here, their friends workout here too. 

AM: On the same note, how do you select trainers that you onboard to the DOGPOUND family? 

KM: We hire passionate and positive trainers. That's our number one and number two. Our roster of trainers is pretty diverse. It is not really about what you've accomplished, but where you want to go. You really want to be a trainer, you really want to help people? That's the kind of trainer we want. We can develop the trainers and give them the education they need. We have our entire boxing program. No one ever boxed before the program, but we brought someone in who was a world class boxer and he taught us how to box and now we have a boxing program. You have to want to learn. Some of our top trainers weren't trainers when they started. We look for trainers who want to constantly seek improvement. Just like our clients come here to be a better version of themselves.

AM: We like that those who are members of your gym have the ability to be trained by a number of your trainers, what was the thought process behind that and how do you feel that that is beneficial to them? 

KM: Because it’s always been my own business, I've had long term clients. The issue is that they can get bored working out with only one person. Not only do the clients get bored, but the trainer gets bored. When you have a team, you can offer strengths that you don't have personally in your service. It creates variety. Just today, I had a client who likes boxing, but I don't box, so I had him warm up with some boxing techniques with another trainer. Another client has a knee bothering him so I had a trainer that has more physical therapy background work with him. Workouts don't get stale. And, simply for a time standpoint, it allows for clients to make sure they can fit their workout in. If a client want's to workout but their only availabilty is at ten, but I'm booked at ten, they can work out with someone who has an opening at that time. Here you can always get into workout with somebody. 

AM: Besides the location at Tribeca, are you planning additional locations? 

KM: Yes. 

AM: Do you sell apparel that is branded with DOGPOUND or other brands? 

KM: As of right now, you can't really get apparel unless you come directly to the location. It's available only at the gym. 

AM: What types of workouts are offered at DOGPOUND? 

KM: Boxing, HIIT, Strength Training

AM: How important is offering nutrition as a service? 

KM: It's extremely important. I think nutrition is 70% of your fitness goal. 

AM: Clearly, you're a busy man, when you're not working, what can we find you doing on your "off time"?  

KM: Relaxing and snuggling with my Pooh Bear. Oh, and watching the Raiders. 

AM: When did you introduce the Machine Gun? 

KM: Four years ago. 

AM: What does the studio look like? Any signature decor? 

KM: It was designed by Fabien Baron. Black, white, and concrete. Very sleek look. 

AM: I know you have a varied clientele but could you generalize a bit and give me a brief description of the folks who go there? 

KM: There are finance guys and girls, artists, athletes, celebrities, models and a lot of people who just want to get results. 

AM: Can you be more specific about how the various disciplines are combined? Are you going from holding a yoga pose straight into a resistance exercise straight into a jump squat? 

KM: Just want to paint a clearer picture of the progression of the class.  The only class we offer is boxing, but we always start a one on one session with a dynamic warmup, but the workout is specific to each person's goals. All of our one on one programs are individualized. If you are a dancer, there will be more flexibility, toning and core work, but if you are looking to join the 1000lb club, there is going to be more strength training and heavy lifting.

Read more from the Jan issue.

FAIRMONT HOTEL | WASHINGTON D.C., GEORGETOWN

Last week, we launched our anniversary issue, which meant that it was time for a busy next few days ahead which included some upcoming TV segments (more on that soon) as well as 2 food editorial shoots which will be included in our Feb Issue which will be out later next month! My TV segments were taped in D.C. and when I'm in this area, there is one place that I love staying - the Fairmont Hotel Washington D.C., Georgetown. 

A few years ago, I stayed at Fairmont Hotel and had the opportunity to take in a number of gems that are found here including their popular bee-tinis, great fitness center and the fact that their restaurant has a farm to table concept where the food is local, fresh and incorporates (as does most of the food and beverage options) honey from the bees that are on the property's roof!

I love when I have the chance to stay in an area for more then just a few days; however, sometimes you only get 24 Hours In a particular place and I love that when I stay here, I can do everything in the hotel from working out, eating, taking meetings and more. But I also have the option to have great places to go to (SoulCycle, shopping etc in the area)!

When I arrived this weekend, I took in the $27 million renovations that just finished earlier this month! The lobby has a playful mixture of modern and geometric design that runs through the lobby. I also loved details that included carpets and wall art that had various maps from the Potomac. This hotel honors and references George Washington (in our hotel room, there was a cute gold profile of our first president). The lobby is such a hub of activity for those checking in/out, enjoying beverages at the bar (their BeeTini is such a classic drink that you can't stay or visit without having one) and waiting for guests before going to eat, stepping across the courtyard or heading out.

The image at the beginning of this post is from the Gold Lounge which is on the 9th floor which allows you to have a VIP experience! With a separate check in/out area and a lounge that allows you to work outside of your room as well as to enjoy a complimentary breakfast, snacks and more throughout the day - it's a moment of peaceful zen that even for 24 hours was appreciated! Whether you've booked a room on this floor or anywhere in the hotel, the level of service and dedication to the needs of guests are felt throughout!

As we traveled from NYC to D.C., all I could think about were some of my favorites that I would have at Juniper at Fairmont dinner including their use of honey, bee pollen and honey comb (due to the bees that live on the roof) in their dishes such as the Honey Wheat Bread (the honey butter is a must) and the BeeTini (pictured to the right). With sustainable ingredients, it's a pleasure to enjoy a number of the savory dishes - I'm obsessed with the Baby Caesar so that was obvious and as I had traveled quite a bit, Fish and Chips was a must. Finally, ending with the Elderflower Creme Brulee was so satisfying. Although I'm a fan of the BeeTini and have had quite a few on each stay, I always have one of their specialty bourbon cocktails which is a great way to enjoy dinner! 

Find out about Fairmont D.C.'s Valentine's Weekend - SUITE MOMENTS here. 

SUITE MOMENTS

If you have yet to make plans for Valentine's Day, then you need to think about staying at the Fairmont this Valentine's Weekend as they have their SUITE MOMENTS PACKAGE.

Read more from the Jan issue here.

ATHLEISURE LIST | THE ROPE & THE DANCE NYC

Originally from Ohio, Amanda Kloots has had a number of roles in New York, that have included being a Broadway dancer, Radio City Rockette and a head trainer at Body by Simone.

When methods are created, they focus on a concept. Amanda created the jump rope method after years of finding different ways to stay in amazing shape.  The jump rope became her focus when she realized that it's the quickest, most effective way to a full body workout. She also spent a number of years finding ways to use the rope for more then just jumping! 

The Rope NYC is a class designed by Amanda K as it is completely original and new! This interval based class has you use the jumprope to tone your entire body with moves created by her to use with the jump rope to keep your heart rate up.  

Amanda is the sole creator and instructor of The Rope and she also teaches a dance cardio class called The Dance. These two classes plus her one-on-one training complete her fitness brand, Amanda K. Her classes are a mix of dance and cross training, with a primary focus on form and details. This creates a unique and fun workout that will leave you drenched in sweat in minutes. Both classes are taught at Studio B at Bandier and Dance Workshop NY. Keep an eye out on additional venues that these classes will be held in 2017.

When taking her class at Studio B there are towels, toiletries in the bathroom, and the first level of Bandier is filled with an array of workout clothes for sale to shop from before or after class!

It's worth noting that Amanda K will have her own apparel as well as her own rope.

This class is high energy and is taught by Amanda, whose creativity is seen through her energy which is contagious and maintains a positive vibe through the workout. 

ROPE NYC

STUDIO B. 
164 5th Ave NY, NY 10010

Read more from the June issue

WELLNESS TRENDS 2017

Last month, we talked with Jason Wachob of mindbodygreen and his Annual Wellness Report that looks at trends taking place in 2017. We also interviewed those who work in those fields. We took a moment to chat with Craig Elbert, Founder and CEO of Care Of. We talked about how he conceived of the company that focuses on vitamin/supplement personalization, and more! 

Last month, we talked with Jason Wachob of mindbodygreen and his Annual Wellness Report that looks at trends taking place in 2017. We also interviewed those who work in those fields. We took a moment to chat with Craig Elbert, Founder and CEO of Care Of. We talked about how he conceived of the company that focuses on vitamin/supplement personalization, and more! 

CRAIG ELBERT: Prior to Care Of, I worked at Bonobos which is a men's apparel brand here in NY and I had the joy of joining it when they had 10 people and then growing it to over 250 people by the time that I left. One thing that we were really bullish on was how do we grow a great customer experience in a category that was stagnant in the case of that brand, it was men's khaki pants. There was nothing more boring than men's khaki pants but we wanted to make it more interesting.

While there, I had an interesting experience to purchase vitamins and supplements as I was getting them for myself and trying to get things to be healthier and to also purchase pre-natal vitamins for my wife. The experience of going into the vitamin stores it was just a bad consumer experience it felt bad and it was confusing as well as overwhelming. It felt just a little bit of a manipulative situation. So what we wanted to do was to take a look at how we could do something that was more consumer friendly - giving people the advice that they needed and to ultimately give them the knowledge on what was right for them.

For me, my experience in a brick and mortar store, there are thousands of products on the shelves. I didn't know which ones would be right for me and the store clerk who was just being paid above minimum wage - didn't give me great confidence that he/she could provide the right information. So we spent just about over a year working with experts (nutritionists, naturopaths, doctors, academics) who were focused on the space to figure out what are the different use cases for vitamins and supplements and what the use cases behind them and how do we help people to figure out what is right for them. That's how I, as a consumer who was trying to shop for the products myself, came to this.

AM: This is so true. I have been going to places like GNC since I was in highschool as I know the types of vitamins/supplements that I need. Or if I was thinking of something new to try that it was a bit overwhelming to select from the choices. 

What struck me about your website is that you have a clean interface as well as descriptions of what it is as well as how it is beneficial to your body.

How do you guys go about deciding what types of items will be offered for consumers?

CE: One of the things that we found and started seeing in our research, we initially found was that we were only going to offer items that had scientific research and strong scientific support. One of the things that we found early on was that some things have scientific support and others don't. There are products like Vitamin D and Folic Acid that doctors have a lot of date and support that it is good for your body and that you have something like Fish Oil which has good science but there are some studies that show it's a bit of a mix. Then you have probiotics which have a lot of promising research, but it's still early on.

So we realized that there is a spectrum, and that for our product offering we wanted to focus on anything that had at least good science and we basically cut out the things that didn't have great science and started with ones that had good science for traditional usage and that were ones that could be used for common human goals, whether that was for stress, energy or something more long term like heart health and bone health. So we tried to just cover things that people are looking for and cross referenced that with scientific support.

AM: So over the course of the year, whether they met your criteria - will you be adding more supplements/vitamins into the mix?

CE: So we do plan to add more. Our goal right now is that we launched with about 30 products - we'll get up to about 50 with different doses. We never want to have thousands of products as we feel that it is overwhelming and so we do plan to add on products as we have our pre-natal, which we have worked on for a long time which will launch in Feb or early March. We have a probiotic that launched this month and then we have turmeric and elderberry that is also launching this month. So we do plan to continue to introduce products but we don't plan on having thousands of them.

AM: I liked seeing that you are adding in turmeric and elderberry as those are two products that I use in addition to fish oil. Tumeric is on trend this season as a flavor that we will see a lot of as well. What is the process like for someone who is new to the site when they are picking products for their monthly subscription box?

CE: We wanted to keep it simple. We have them take a little personalization quiz, where we ask about their goals, their diet, their lifestyle and their values. Based on that we cross reference it with the research that we have done as their recommendation. They are able to see that and then adjust to their pack as they wish. They can take something out, add in or leave it as it is. Then they place their order and each month in that box, will be 30 daily packets all personalized for that individual with their name on it and the products inside. We try to make it easy as well as a bit of fun. The survey takes about 3-5 minutes and it helps to guide all the recommendations. 

AM: What drew me is that the packets have the person's name on them which I think is so cute and in an age of emailing and faceless activity it was a nice touch. With people who are busy or who travel a lot you can just see something that reminds you of home and you can seamlessly add it into your daily life.

CE: Yeah, one thing that we talk a lot about in personalization is the combination of technology as well as human empathy. We are building a brand that is focusing on using technology to make things easier so having the human touch factor is key. From having your name on it to having our customer experience team led by Amy here who is awesome in terms of responding to customers and ensuring that we have a good dialogue that feels humanly and not just a scientific laboratory. We wanted it to feel human, warm and empathetic, which is important for the brand.

AM: What are things you're looking to do as Care Of grows in 2017?

CE: We are definitely looking to build an app this year and are a little tight-lipped on what that will be in terms of features. Down the road, our goals are to focus on the business of personalized health. That could be vitamins and supplements and then additional products. We want to wade through the information that is out there and to make it easy for our customers for personalization which is a nice broad growth opportunity for us over time.

Right now we recognize that we are a new brand and we have to be able to execute and connect with customers on these first products that we have with these vitamins and supplements. So far it has been a lot of fun!

AM: Why do you feel that personalization in this field as well as in general is such a major trend that a lot of brands across various categories are looking to implement as we continue into 2017?

CE: As people, we're all very different and I think that we like to have this recognized. Realistically, we can live healthier if we focus on our individual needs. What's fun right now is that technology is making that possible. We're looking to unlock that technology to be able to build something that people always want to recognize that difference and being special and to have something that is unique for them which we can do for them with the technology that we have. 

Nutrition is an ongoing trend that we see from year to year. We caught up with Amanda Bacon of Moon Juice to learn about how she helps people's body and skin from the inside out. This was initiated by her own journey in food as a chef, food journalist and finding her way to her best self through her diet.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Can you tell us about your background?

AMANDA BACON: I traveled a lot through Europe and South America - living in Italy, then Uruguay for a while. These experiences stirred a love not only for the preparation of food, but in tracing ingredients back to their purest forms. When I came back to the states, I went to study at the New England Culinary Institute in Vermont, working at local bakeries and dairies. When I landed in California, I was fortunate to cook under Suzanne Goin at Lucques for a number of years. I truly found a mentor in her. I then moved into food journalism, reporting for LA Times Magazine when it launched. 

In 2006, I began studying the power of raw, medicinal foods to heal the hypothyroid condition I had had since I was a teen, in addition to my severe allergies to wheat, sugar, and cow dairy. Although I was still working as a chef in fine dining, at this juncture my whole diet changed. I ate primarily vegetables and legumes from the farmer’s market, and foods that would serve as hormonal adaptogens. Within a few months, I noticed a radical shift. My next round of blood work revealed that my thyroid hormone levels were back to normal.

Working in fine dining was amazing, but my own transformative experience – backed up by extensive blood tests, the scrutiny of several physicians, renewed feelings of vitality, and a shift in my personality, immunity, appearance, and thought – inspired me to create Moon Juice. These live, medicinal foods changed me from the inside out.

AM: Why do you like sharing about the power of medicinal foods that could work for you from the inside out?

AB: Food can be powerful medicine and no one has experienced its effects more dramatically than I have. Before I began to cook and eat in a way that allowed me to thrive cosmically, my thyroid was slow, allergies were rampant and I had the general feeling that I wasn’t optimizing this life and the body I was traveling in. There’s nothing I love more than talking to people about the ways that they can use food as medicine. The Moon Juice Cookbook is one of the ways I can help people.

AM: Why did you create Moon Juice?

AB: I created Moon Juice for people interested in a new way of living. Not a way where you have to erase your past, but a way fueled by excitement to help yourself live better. Our only intention is to add goodness and beauty to your life.

AM: What are the benefits that one may feel by including this in their dietary regimen?

AB: Being so clean on the inside that it shows in your skin. Having a complete makeover on your life outlook. Being a part of a movement that is changing the way food is produced and consumed. And no dishes! 

High functioning, bioavailable, potent, medicinal whole foods are packed with exceptionally high levels of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes turning them into tools we can use to tone, nourish and empower our bodies. These foods heal your cells, protect against oxidation, slow the aging process and support your immune system by stimulating and supplementing your bodies disease and infection fighting properties.

AM: We always enjoy a great drink and towards the end of last year we were introduced to Farmer Willie's, which is an alcoholic ginger beer drink that's not only refreshing but will definitely be a great beverage to enjoy during the summer!

We talked with the Co-Founders Nico and Max of this brand. What was your background and how did that lead you to working with one another, and what's the story behind creating Farmer Willie's.

NICO ENRIQUEZ: I first met Willie Fenichel 11 years ago on a beach in Cape Cod. I was this little kid who saw a makeshift beach volleyball game down the beach and asked to join. Turns out that the league of volleyball misfits was an every day thing. Little did I know that after that first game I would be hooked to a degree that I would literally try and spend every hour of sunlight during the summer playing with this crazy group. 

Willie's sister was the unofficial official league commissioner (she started the tradition and is in charge of bringing the net and ball to this day). I started eating dinner at their farm every day after games. Soon the Fenichel family became my second family. 

After getting to know Willie over several years he began sharing his home-brewed ginger beer recipe with me. It was amazing. I was always an entrepreneurial kid, I was trying to figure out ways to live the Cape life with the Fenichels all summer and not have my parents disown me as a beach bum, so I began dreaming, and told him we had to try bringing the ginger beer to the farmer's market in Ptown and see if we could make a living off it. Willie was in. 

Fast forward several years, I was about to turn 21 and I was sitting in my best friend's dorm room at Brown University. I started telling him about my dream to sell this alcoholic ginger beer with Willie. Max Easton (my best friend & business partner) had grown up working in the restaurant industry in London because his mom ran several bars and restaurants. He was an adventurous soul and I was an overly enthusiastic salesman, so he joined the cause without ever trying the ginger beer.

MAX EASTON: I spent most of my life on the other side of the pond in London, England, and grew up working in the restaurant industry as my mother started & managed several pub & bar companies in the UK. I was interested in coming to the US for college as I had no idea what I wanted to study & the UK university system really makes you focus on one major from the beginning. I had heard amazing things about Brown because of its reputation as a great academic school but partnered with a much cooler, less intense student body. I applied early, fortunately got accepted & headed to Brown after taking a gap year.

Nico and I met because he lived around the corner from my ex-girlfriend and I loved hanging out with him because he was always so happy & optimistic, and I found our times together hilarious (and still do) because we have polar opposite personalities. To characterize, I am the buttoned-up Brit and he's permanently got sand in his hair. 

We became closer & closer friends and one Spring night Sophomore year we were chilling in my room chatting about things we were doing or interested in. We both loved the idea of starting our own thing as both our parents were entrepreneurs, and so we started throwing out ideas. This was the moment when Nico mentioned Willie and his legendary ginger beer: as far as I remember, his words were: "I know this guy named Willie, who lives out on the Cape and he makes this amazing alcoholic ginger beer. I always thought it could be something. What do you think?" To be honest, I had no idea what to think, but after I said why not, Nico applied to this small Brown accelerator program to get us some funding & mentoring. We pitched the idea (without me having tried the product or met Willie) and we were accepted. That was definitely the start, but it only kept going because it was all hilarious and we enjoyed learning the steps you took to starting a business. We had both planned to start our own businesses some day, so why not learn about it while doing something fun? There was just no downside to us giving it a shot, so we kept taking small steps until it ended up being something pretty legit.

AM: When did Farmer Willie's launch?

NE: We launched May 22nd of 2015 at the Farmer's Market in Provincetown- a little under 2 years ago. We spent the 1.5 years before that day preparing, interviewing, working canning lines, filing legal papers, raising money, etc.

ME: The moment Nico mentioned Willie & his ginger beer in my dorm room was Spring Semester of Sophomore year. We kept working on it our Sophomore & Junior years - we brewed small-scale test batches, worked out where we could produce, sorted out the legal framework of the company, designed our logo & can, did more start-up competitions, talked to people in the industry etc. - and we had everything set by the end of our Junior Year so we decided to start selling it commercially. As Nico described, we started selling at the Provincetown farmers' market after our Junior year finals & lived out on the Cape at Nico's grandma's house for three months self-distributing cases to around 50 bars, restaurants & liquor stores. So, in terms of proper selling, we have been selling for just over a year and a half, but we have been working on Farmer Willie's for almost three years now. Many small steps!

AM: Ginger is an ingredient that has not only been on trend as a flavor for a number of years, but is definitely a core one when you think about wellness, what was the thought behind combining it with alcohol?

NE: Willie started brewing his ginger beer because he was bored in the winter living on the Cape and his mom was making beach plum wine, so he decided to try something different. He loved ginger and began seeing what would happen when he grated fresh ginger and added lemon juice, cane sugar, and yeast (to ferment it and add carbonation). Needless to say, the home-brew was spectacular. Fresh, simple ingredients go a long way. 

ME: We didn't! It's was all Willie. But the ginger trends were definitely one of the things that got us excited when we first looked into whether we could make Willie's ginger beer into something. It's exploding in bars & restaurants with cocktails such as Moscow Mules & Dark n' Stormies, juice bars & farm-to-table restaurants. So the idea that we could create a fresh, dry & seasonable alcoholic ginger beer that you can drink straight out of the can just seemed awesome. We drink it all the time and it's like nothing else in the ginger beer space.

AM: What are the health benefits that one can enjoy while consuming Farmer Willie's and how is it different than other beverages that are in its category or related categories?

NE: We can't ever say our beverage is healthy because it still contains alcohol and the FDA would do terrible things to us. That being said, what sets this ginger beer apart is that we use real ginger and it isn't so damn sweet. 

If you look at the mass produced ginger beer everyone drinks or even the specialty supermarket versions those ginger beers have anywhere between 30-60g of high fructose corn syrup which is 3X-6X more sugar than ours (and we use cane sugar). This means that other ginger beers have 170-200 calories in their cans - all from sugar. We have 150 calories in our can - 110 which come from the 4.5% ABV. So basically you can have a real fresh, dry ginger beer with alcohol and still consume less sugar than your average non-alcoholic ginger beer. To us, it's a no brainer (unless you are under 21, of course!).

We use simply prepared, real ingredients, such as cold pressed ginger, lemon, nutmeg, molasses. None of the "natural flavoring" crap. Ginger is a superfood, lemon gives you vitamin C. I don't know what nutmeg does for you but its a spice. Molasses doesn't do much but it sounds good haha.

ME: You grow a ginger beard. But seriously, we can't say that there are health benefits as we will get into trouble, but compared to other ginger beers, there is no comparison. As Nico said, there is a reason we are a much fresher, much more refreshing ginger beer.

But, in general, we're a fresh, low sugar, gluten-free alternative to beer. You are drinking something that lifts you up and you can drink it straight out of the can so you can bring it anywhere without an issue.

AM: Tell us about how you came upon the design of the can, as well as the logo as we love how distinctive it is.

NE: The can was designed by a legendary girl named Juliette Weiss. She is our head of design. We met because when we were studying at Brown, Juliette was down the hill, studying at RISD (Rhode Island School of Design). Our entrepreneurship professor Danny Warshay introduced us. We told her we wanted a clean, but quirky can to reflect our weird story and real ingredients. 

On our second meeting, Juliette came in with the idea that we make the front of the can into Willie's ginger beard so people could get the beard while they drink and post photos online. Obviously we had to do it. Especially because everyone knows puns and hipster-ass beards are the key to a Brown student's heart. Juliette absolutely killed it on the design and we ended up winning a prestigious package design award the next year. 

ME: The legend, Juliette Weiss. She's a beautiful, wonderful, pain in the ass - and we are so lucky to have her on the team. 

AM: Where is Farmer Willie's sold and where would you like to see it?

NE: Farmer Willie's is sold in MA and RI. Specifically in MA, we are sold on the North Shore, Boston, South Shore, Cape, and Islands. There are a ton of places that we would absolutely love to see Farmer Willie's sold. We love the sea and the ginger and lemon kill it with seafood and clean fresh ingredients so obviously the Matunuck Oyster Bar in RI, the Beachcomber in Wellfleet (out on the Cape), Branchline in Watertown (that place is literally fire), and The Poynt in Newburyport. Also, it's light and refreshing as hell straight out of the can so the spots, where we dance like idiots in Boston like Middlesex Lounge or Middle-east would be absolutely primo. Regardless, if you do not see Farmer Willie's in your local liquor store or bar and want it there, please ask them to ask for it because that truly helps us build this.  

AM: Will Farmer Willie's have any brand extensions into other categories, flavors etc?

NE: We are working on some absolutely awesome flavors to compliment our approach of fresh ginger and low sugar. I can't say what specific flavor twists yet though... 

AM: How is Farmer Willie's aligned to Athleisure Culture?

NE: We believe in having a damn good time but taking care of yourself at the same time. Basically real ingredients, low hassle, adventures for days. Also, the only thing that keeps us sane as we work 80 hour weeks building this thing are the mind-clearing runs.

AM: Will Farmer Willie's be involved in events, tradeshows, promotions etc that will take place this spring/summer?

NE: Absolutely, we are planning some speakeasy parties around Boston this Spring for people who follow us on social media each month. We are trying to organize some beach volleyball games outside the Beachcomber this summer.
Also we will be doing plenty of brewfests and tastings every Friday and Saturday night... anyone can send me an email nico@thefarmerwillies.com to ask which tastings/fest may be in your area if you want to meet anyone on the team.

AM: As co-founders when you're not running the brand, how do you take time for yourselves?

NE: We both dance like fools whenever possible. 

Sundays, I go for a hike or super long bike ride to explore the area around Boston. I find the air clears the head and slows down your thinking and there isn't the impact of running so I can give my knees and ankles a rest. Last adventure I found a crazy 200 ft rock quarry and got kicked out then lucked on some old WW2 forts on the north shore. Sunday night I go home to my parents house and chill with the fam, read the Sunday paper and eat the home cooking... Not gonna lie I bring my laundry home. 

Max loves running as well, nice food, bit of whiskey & chilling with his girlfriend. He also loves building up his music playlists & finding new music, which is awesome for me. He's the kind of man who takes over the music at a party, but honestly it is always for the better because people tend to dance a bit more. He knows how to read a party for sure. 

ME: It really depends on my mood, but I really do love running to shake off any stress or clear my mind. Got that from my mum & Nico. But if I have more time, I love finding new music, going for an awesome meal or going for a great walk with someone chill. Anything where you can come back feeling refreshed. 

AM: Nico, we heard that you run marathons, how did you prepare for it, what was the training like and when is your next one?

NE: I grew up just off Heartbreak Hill so I always wanted to do the marathon. The year I turned 19, I ran it but it was the bombing year and I was on the final stretch of Boylston when the bombs went off so I felt I really had to do it again. 

I run 5-7 miles every day and don't really have time for more so my training was just that. I had super slow times and the two days after the races were always painful and I was so stiff that I had to walk down stair backwards, but it was always more about proving it to myself then anything else. The next one is definitely on my radar- I want to do NY and others, but no idea when I will have the time or the stupidity to forget the pain of haphazard marathons of the past. 

See more from the Jan Issue 

N3W YOU

KATRINA SCOTT + KARENA DAWN

FITNESS TRAINERS + CO-FOUNDERS

TONE IT UP

THE GOOD

We have our Tone It Up Challenge going on right now (you can sign up HERE for a free starter pack!). It’s basically 6 weeks of total body toning workouts paired with the day-by-day 6 Week Meal Plan to bring fitness results to the next level for 2017! 

THE BUZZ

We have something really big coming up in late 2017 that we’re getting super excited about! We’re announcing all the deets in March, so make sure to follow both of our Instagram accounts @KarenaKatrina and @ToneItUp for more info to come ;)

We also came out with 8 brand new workouts called BODY LOVE and 3 of them are with one of our fave fitness icons Jillian Michaels!! They’re absolutely amazing routines that kick some major booty and torch calories.

KAITLYN BRISTOWE + SHAWN BOOTH

THE BACHELORETTE

THE GOOD

2016 was a BIG year. We moved to Nashville TN as a newly engaged couple. Living in music city, I was able to meet many talented song writers, and singers who have helped me pursue my passion in singing. It led me to hosting on the red carpet for the 50th anniversary of the CMA’s where I got to meet incredible  artists.

We have also been fortunate enough to start CitySTRONG, an indoor/outdoor group workout that takes place in cities all across the country. We’ve teamed up with our good friend Erin Oprea, who is also a well known trainer here in Nashville TN. It’s all about getting a good workout, but more importantly, having fun! A portion of the CitySTRONG proceeds go to a charity called “Creativets” which we are very passionate about. It helps soldiers overcome PTSD when they come back from overseas by pairing them up with song writers to help them create music. We are proud of that and have met some amazing people from that organization. Our platform has allowed us to have a voice with many different charities, meet incredible people who make a difference, and hear a lot of inspiring stories.

THE ADD

I think when it comes to resolutions, one that stands out to us is being more in the moment. We are all so caught up on our phones, and dealing with the pressure of being a public figure, that we always feel “on.” I think another thing we would love to do is work with more charities and make the world a better place. That is the stuff that evolves and makes us happy. Instagram is fun, but making a difference is rewarding. I know we love to say we will plan a wedding this year. But again, we don’t want it to be because of the pressure or expectations we are under from being on TV. We want to make sure it's when we are ready. Just because we don’t have a date, doesn’t mean we don’t love each other any less. We are busy. And hopefully in 2017 we can start to plan. 

THE BUZZ

I’m excited to announce my podcast. I have been brainstorming, and plotting for a while now on how to make it unlike any other. I always have a lot to say, and I like to make people laugh. I feel like I am meant for it. Who knows who will show up on there, but I’m hoping some people I've always wanted to get to know. I have also been co-writing songs, and recorded my first one the other day. I am proud of it and can’t wait to share it with everyone who believes in me. 

Shawn has been working SO HARD on his fitness and being the best trainer he can be. He is getting new clients all the time, and is also training for an IRONMAN that he will take part in this year. Now THAT’S an ambitious goal for 2017. I've never seen someone so dedicated in my life. You can tell it is his passion. He is extremely knowledgable when it comes to nutrition, health and fitness. Shawn has his own meal plans that he customizes to each person who orders one. It's not about a fad diet, he creates a healthy and achievable lifestyle. Whether you are a mom on the go, someone doing fitness competitions, or even just wanting to live a healthier life. There is something for everyone. 

He has been working every single day on his website that will be coming out soon for people to get on board. His passion for fitness is what inspired him to start CitySTRONG.com, where we get to meet people across the country and inspire them to be their best selves. 2017 is going to be a great year.

DAGMARA WOZNIAK

TEAM USA OLYMPIAN 2016 RIO BRONZE FENCER

THE GOOD

2016 was a memorable year for the books for so many reasons. It was a combination of the best moments in my life as well as some truly difficult times. I was able to qualify, compete, and medal at the 2016 Olympic Games. At the same time all this was going on I was going through some of the worst injuries I have dealt with in my career. It was an emotional rollercoaster, but that's life and instead of getting upset and feeling defeated, I never stopped hustling and never stopped putting one foot in front of the other. It was a time in my life that I felt I was tested emotionally and physically and it just made me grow more comfortable with who I am as well as understanding what I’m capable of.

THE ADD

This year I have decided to train and heal differently by slowing down. Athletes think stronger, faster, harder is the best way to go but at some point your body will shut down on you. One goal is to focus on clean eating that will help my body recover and heal faster from intense workouts and practice. Another goal is to improve my ability to be more self aware and strengthen my mindfulness in such a fast sport like fencing if you are worried about what has happened or what will happen, then you lose and I think that relates a lot to everyday life. You can’t be worried about losing a job for example or not getting an interview if you didn’t try to go for it. People tend to focus on beach body mode or losing weight for event and end up freaking out and binge eating. If you just take it one meal at a time, one meal at a time, one workout at a time, one becomes 2 and that becomes 5. Before you know it you went consistently for a month eating healthier and working out more. Making plans is necessary, but when taking steps towards it be in the moment and appreciate the handwork and everything that is going on at that point in time.

THE BUZZ

I recently got signed to Nike and I’m IN LOVE. I have always loved the company and its clothing so now to be a part of the family feels right. I got some things in the works so I can’t disclose them yet, but keep following me and check out my road to success! As of now, I’ve committed myself to training for 2020 Tokyo and I can’t be more excited about it. I love being an athlete and representing the US and I plan on doing it for as long as I can.

EDM TWIN DJ'S MIRIAM + OLIVIA

NERVO

THE GOOD

2016 was ace! We were able to travel the world on many exciting tours through The America's, Asia, Australia, and all over Europe, played around 200 shows at some of the biggest festivals and nightclubs in the world, hosted our own NERVONation shows at Ushuaia in Ibiza and SLS in Miami, continued our biggest residencies in Las Vegas at Omnia and Wet Republic, and Ushuaia, Ibiza. We were able to connect with so many incredible fans that showed their love and support at every single show and also towards our releases.  We launched our own record label GOT ME BABY! Records, had a Billboard Dance #1 with People Grinnin’, released so many special songs, explored a virtual reality 3d music video with “Did We Forget”, had exciting collaborations with Timmy Trumpet, Kylie Minogue, Savi, Amba Shepherd, and Nicky Romero - among others, and reached the DJ Mag top 100 poll as highest ranking females.  On a personal level, we have become very close with the team of people we work with, creating our own little family and we were lucky enough to to take our brother on the road with us for three months where we built some everlasting memories. We can only hope 2017 is as special and we are very grateful for the good times in 2016!

THE ADD

Any creative person will tell you that they struggle with evolving and balance. You see, our jobs are all encompassing so we are “on” 110% of the time. This can work against finding down time, but we need this “down time” to come up with new ideas, so I guess you could say it is a constant battle. In 2017, we will keep trying to find the perfect balance. 

Like every year, we will continue to keep pushing boundaries, to keep growing musically and explore different genres.   We are releasing a more pop record in February through BigBeat, Warners, which may or may not connect with our fans, but to us, we are excited about trying something new. Prioritizing studio time is also super important for 2017. We need to set aside time to be creative in order to fulfill our creative aspirations so this will be a major focus for us.

Giving back to charity is also a goal for 2017. In the past we have been involved in Breast cancer charities. We chose Breast Cancer because our mother survived it, but we are also interested in some other charities which we hope to work with this year. 

THE BUZZ

2017 is going to be another very busy year for NERVO!  Aside from working up our label - GOT ME BABY! Records, we have some special collabs coming with DVBBS, Danny Avila, Quintino - to mention a few.

We teamed up with some people in the business to launch our own management company called 25Eight Entertainment and we will be announcing some new artists and clients that we are working with in 2017 and beyond.

Our NERVONation shows will be back at Ushuaia in Ibiza, as well as Miami for Music Week and also taking it to the slopes in Austria, Solden.

From March onwards, we are back on a heavy touring schedule and are super excited about playing Lollapalooza in South America. 

LACEY STONE CELEBRITY FITNESS TRAINER + 

CELEB TRAINER ON E! 's REVENGE BODY WITH KHLOE KARDASHIAN

THE GOOD

This year was a huge year for me professionally. I got cast on Khloe Kardashian’s new docuseries REVENGE BODY, set to premiere on E! January 12th, 2017. I’ve been working in the fitness industry my entire adult life and I’m so excited for the world to see this show, because it’s not about extreme weight-loss it’s about health and being the best you can be from the inside out.
 
I traveled to Fiji for 2 weeks and spent that time meditating, reconnecting with my heart, and enjoying some long overdue quality time with 3 of my best friends. Being successful is RAD, but if you don’t take time to celebrate and reflect on your successes you miss  
out on the joy of achieving them.

My program 8 Weeks To Change Program has helped so many people find big time fitness results and increased happiness in their personal and professional lives. Because of this the Program has gotten a lot of national attention from The Steve Harvey Show, The Doctors, & E!

THE ADD

In 2017, I’m looking to expand 8 Weeks To Change Programs across the country and create a virtual environment which allows me to help people in all parts of the world find their inner athlete and the courage to be who they were born to be. 
 
I’m also looking to complete my first book and continue to spread the message that fitness isn’t about the scale, it’s about finding health from within.

If I were to choose one word to describe how I’m looking to live my life in 2017 it would be FEARLESS. I'm going to actively work at being the best I can be everyday, forcing myself to live life consistently outside of my comfort zone. Being fearless involves tremendous courage and to be courageous you must be confident in the unknown.
 
In order to grow my business and stay on top of what’s hot and what’s not, I’ll be hiring several more people to work on expanding my brand. That involves me learning to delegate and not be such a perfectionist control freak (hahahha). 

THE BUZZ

Some of my personal resolutions involve not being so hard on myself and learning to be more flexible and adventurous outside of work.

Last year Khloe Kardashian selected me as one of her go-to celebrity trainers on her new E! Show Revenge Body. The show premieres January 12th on E! 
 
I’ll being doing a fitness retreat in Bali with 14 lucky people looking to change their lives from the inside out. 
 
I’ll also be doing some clothing collaborations with Carbon38, which will launch in February 2017.

See more from the Jan Issue 

ATHLEISURE MAG; JAN 2017

Our Jan Issue, the Anniversary issue is out tomorrow but you can take a peek now, right here!

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT | Paul Farkas

LIGHTS, CAMERA, SWEENEY

Alison Sweeney has literally grown up on TV from her first commercial at the age of 5 for Kodak, various shows and then in 1987, she came to the soap opera, Days of Our Lives which she spent over 2 decades as Samantha Brady. She is also known for her roles as the host of NBC's Biggest Loser, Hallmark's Murder She Baked and more. This Daytime Emmy and Soap Opera Digest Award winner and nominee continues to share her love of life in Food Network's Kid's Sweet Showdown as a host (she has hosted and co-hosted various Food Network specials).

We took a moment to sit down to talk with this Soap Opera queen to chat about her Food Network special, how she keeps a healthy mindset, what she's up to for the holidays and her personal style.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We've been fans of yours for a long time as we got our first glimpse of you as Sami! How have you crafted your career to take on so many roles and opportunities beyond those of just the Soap Opera world? 

ALISON SWEENEY: Thank you for being fans! Growing up on a soap opera, where we learned so much dialogue each day, taught me how to be in the moment and how to plan. That upbringing has helped me throughout my life as I now tackle various roles. I make a point to continually push myself, but always to keep it manageable with a schedule and to only look at what’s next on the list. By focusing on what I’m doing in the moment, I’m able to give it my undivided attention before moving onto whatever is next. Plus, as my kids are getting older, I’m able to accomplish much more during their hours at school and with after school activities.
 
AM: We're Food Network fans for sure, how did Kid’s Sweets Showdown come about and what can we expect from this show?

AS: As followers of mine on social media know, I love to cook at home and I’m a big fan of Food Network. I’ve hosted several specials for the network so when they asked me to host Kid’s Sweets Showdown for the holidays, I jumped at the opportunity. 

AM: Being healthy is a mindset, but it's also about making a time commitment, how are you able to do this during the holiday season especially with children and so many other responsibilities?

AS: My family and I are incredibly active and we view the holiday season as a time to get out and do so much more because we don’t have limitations with work, school and other responsibilities.

Whether it’s taking a hike or skiing down the mountain, it’s a great time of year for us to have fun while still being healthy

AM: Outside of the holidays how do you stay healthy from favorite meals, workouts, etc that you do?

AS: I love cooking at home and with my kids helping me. I think by making our own meals, we’re more aware of what we’re eating. Our go-to favorites are shrimp and veggie kabobs that my kids and I prep and my husband grills. For workouts, nothing beats a long run with good music and it’s a great way to explore neighborhoods or cities if I’m traveling.
 
AM: How did the partnership with Arm & Hammer Spinbrush come about and why are they a perfect stocking stuffer?

AS: I’m a big fan of Arm & Hammer products and believe in having a strong and confident smile so when Arm & Hammer approached me about working together to raise awareness of their Spinbrush and toothpaste, it was an organic fit as they’re products I already used and a daily routine my family and I are committed to. Plus, who doesn’t love a fresh toothbrush for the new year! It’s a great stocking stuffer and one that my kids look forward to each year.
 
AM: With the holidays, it's literally almost 6 weeks of so many activities - do you have any traditions and how will you be spending it?

AS: My family and I always disappear to the mountains for some time in the snow. We love being first on the chair lifts and last off the mountain before curling up by a fire. 
 
AM: What's your holiday style suggestion from what you would wear to a holiday brunch, holiday activities with your kids, Christmas and New Year’s Eve - do you have any go to staples?

AS: I love to have a sparkly top or shoes to be extra festive over the holidays. I also learned a great tip years ago which is to carry a handbag so one hand is always full, providing less opportunity to
graze the food at holiday parties.
 
AM: When the holidays are over, how will you bring some much needed zen and centering back into your life as you embark upon the new year?

AS: My family and I are creatures of habit so the first day of school is the first day we return to our normal routines and get back in the mode of school and work. The holidays always give us a great time to take a break so when the day comes, we’re ready to tackle life again in the new year and to make every day count.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Food Network

ATHLEISURE LIST | CROSSTOWN FITNESS CHICAGO

CrossTown Fitness is a group exercise studio that focuses on 50min scalable total body interval classes as well as 1 on 1 personal training with the industry's leading professionals. It's called CrossTown because of its multiple locations where clients can train at these facilities with their membership.

The founding location is in the West Loop on Madison Street between Halsted and Racine--1031 W Madison to be exact. A second location is located two blocks east of Wrigley Field at 3600 N Halsted St. They are currently scouting for their third location.

At CTF, there are full bathrooms with showers, towel service, toiletries, and hair care products provided by Solo Salon in the West Loop.  The front café is called the Daily Feed which has protein smoothies that make for a quick meal replacement after class. Also, there are protein shakes, protein bars, and other nutritional snacks available.

CTF offers hand-selected apparel and works within the company towards creative and comfortable clothing and designs. They carry everything from tanks and tees to winter hats and onesies for CTF babies as well as their branded apparel.

CTF specializes in High Intensity Interval Training which is showcased in Total Body classes. It's a  focus on attainable and challenging functional fitness. Total Body classes are 50/50 cardio and strength. There are also Total Body Strength classes which take out the pure cardio and focus on strength training and heavier lifting. Total Body Mobility is a mix of yoga recovery and stretching and Total Body Excursion Run includes 3-4 miles of outdoor running with bodyweight exercises.

The Winter Games Fitness Challenge is a competition that starts in January. This gives members the opportunity to show off their strength and athleticism that they developed throughout their time with CTF. In order to qualify for this competition, all members will have to demonstrate outstanding strength, power, endurance, and agility. Competitors will have to successfully complete and exceed the workouts and tests created by CTF trainers.  Those who make it through the qualifying and semifinal rounds will move on to the finals where the top male and female competitor will be chosen. 

| QUALIFIERS Jan. All Day 1, 6, 11, 16, 21, 26 & 31 | SEMIFINALS Feb. 4th 6:30am 2017 | CHAMPIONSHIP Feb.  18th 6:30am  |

CROSSTOWN FITNESS

1031 W Madison Chicago, IL 60607
3600 N Halsted Chicago, IL 60613

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Crosstown Fitness Chicago