Photography by Paul Farkas
When you mix old school with the new, it's a great time had by all. We headed out to Brooklyn for the Magic Hour! This included outdoor roller skating, cool beats and Talib Kweli for a Sat afternoon.
Read more from the June Issue
PHOTO CREDIT | Christina Emilie
Around the offices of Athleisure Mag. we're always on the go checking out locations, coming back from set, or just being out and about. When you don't know what your schedule will be like or you need positive protein around you, Graze becomes the perfect item to include in your bag! We love that once you purchase a box, you receive 8 pre-packaged containers that include a mix of sweet and savory. The individual containers let you know what it is, the ingredients, calories etc. Whether you wish to share or eat alone, this is the perfect healthy snack that can go from work, the gym, your flight and more. You're bound to have some serious favorites and you can order and gift these boxes within the regularity that works for your lifestyle!
Photo Credit: Christina Emilie
Read more from the June Issue
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT | Carlos David
And we're live! The June issue is ready and we're so excited to unveil that we have Vicky Jeudy from Orange is the New Black on the cover! She plays Janae Watson in this Netflix show which goes live on June 17th and we enjoyed shooting with her. This issue also has a number of celebrity fitness trainers including Ky Evans and Tony Horton. We also have an indepth interview with Kevin Kerslake Director/Executive Producer of AS I AM: The Life and Time$ of DJ AM. Make sure to flip through the digital issue now!
Read more from the Jun Issue
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT | Moon Palace Resorts Golf + Spa Resorts
We're thrilled to announce that yesterday, we kicked off an amazing giveaway via our partnership with Palace Resorts. From now through Sept 5th, you can enter our giveaway. We will select one winner who will be able to bring 2 friends (all 18+) with you to enjoy a 3 night/4 day stay at Moon Palace Golf and Spa Resorts in Cancun within a one (1) Deluxe View Room.
On Sept 6th, we will select one (1) winner at random. Please note that the giveaway includes one (1) Deluxe View Room (all three of you would enjoy staying in this room), access to the amenities of the all-inclusive elements of the resort (this does not include an array of amenities and activities that have additional fees, ground transportation to/from the airport including your home as well as the resort nor is airfare covered to/from the resort).
For more details about entering this giveaway as well as information on what this trip entails click here to find out about the ULTIMATE #SUMM3RFRIDAY. You can still enter to win our weekly giveaways via our #SUMM3RFRIDAY series as we kicked it off during Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.
BACKGROUND PHOTO | iStockl
The third week of #SUMM3RFRIDAY giveaways continues! We have great brands that are involved and are items that you can enjoy as you partake in all that is the summer season! Click the above link to enter and remember, the 1 winner that is selected will also be able to gift 2 of his/her friends. Each week, we will have 1 winner in NYC and 1 in Miami. Each city may have different partners who are participating in that week's giveaway.
Read more from the May issue
Read more from the May Issue
PHOTO COURTESY | UnSplash
| GRIFFITH PARK - Los Angeles, CA | Hammock Sports Bra VALLEAU APPAREL | Cortelyou Jogger Pant in Pink Tropics ALEXIS MERA | Pink/Yellow Sneakers NEWTON | Sparkling Water AQUA CARPATICA | Trekking Towel TRESPASS | Water Spray Bottle EVIAN | Dylan Backpack LINEA PELLE |
Read more from the May Issue
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | DJ Xenia Ghali
Xenia Ghali is a Greek DJ, producer, songwriter, and classically trained musician. She continues to shake up the dance music scene with her debut single ‘Broken’ featuring Katt Rockell (released on Pitbull’s Mr. 305 Records), and her follow up ‘Get Dirty,’ a collaboration with Grammy winning rapper Wyclef Jean. With performances in the US and in Europe, she's always on the go! We caught up with her between sets to share a playlist for our Summer rotation (including 'Under These Lights').
ATHLEISURE MAG: We all have our go to workouts, what sets are in your routine?
XENIA GHALI: I’ll start with 20 minutes of cardio, specifically I love the elliptical machine. Then I do a full-body circuit routine consisting of squats, lunges, crunches and arm exercises using light weights and many reps.
AM: How do you maintain balance with such a busy schedule?
XG: I work both in the US and in Europe so I travel a lot. Being on the road regularly means that it can be very challenging to maintain a balanced lifestyle. I do my best to see my family and friends any chance I get. When I am physically unable to spend time with them, I always make sure to keep in communication with them. In addition to this, exercising really helps me with being physically and mentally balanced.
AM: When you're not DJing a set, what's your personal style?
XG: My personal style is what I call ‘chill but edgy.’ I love fashion so I incorporate it even when I am casual. I love jeans (specifically G-Star), drop-crotch pants, oversized t-shirts, and of course accessories such as hats!
Read more from the May Issue
We're in the in between portion of the year as we transition from the cool breezes of the spring to the higher humidity of summer! With long weekends around the corner, there are so many excuses to take in phenomenal weather, whether you're enjoying a staycation, jetsetting, or simply staying at home.
| Peekaboo Top PHEEL | Legging I LOVE TYLER MADISON | Culmine Body Essence of Rose Silky Hand + Body Cream BELLE SCHNEIDER BEAUTY | Duffle CAMERON SCOTT GARDNER | Sandals TKEES | Grey Pearl Leather Choker CHAN LUU | Josa OLIVER PEOPLES | Orbital Cocktail Ring ALEXIS BITTAR | Coconut Water INVO | Cornbread Crisps FARMER'S PANTRY |
Read more from the May Issue
| Wheatgrass Tablets CITRAGREEN | Flip Flops LIBERTY X HAVAIANAS | Milano TRAVALO | Studio Hatha Capri Legging LUCY | Dry Oil Bodywash DOVE |
Read more from the May Issue
KEY ART COURTESY | Hulu
Hulu's first ever hour long drama is enjoying much of the same success as the streaming platform's 11.22.63.
Set in upstate NY, The Path looks at Meyerism (a fictional cult) which is just as much about the fringe movement as well as those who follow it. This drama focuses the complexities and conflicts that exist when those convert within a controversial religious group. For Eddie (Aaron Paul) and Sarah (Michelle Monaghan), we see issues with their marriage as Eddie has doubts about the faith. Hugh Dancy is the stand-in leader whenever Steven Meyer is away which presents complications as he rises in the community.
The Path looks at how one gets into these communities and what it means to be apart of them while blurring the line between organized groups that you're familiar with while presenting something entirely new.
KEY ART COURTESY | Prime Video
Originally airing on AMC, Humans (Season 1) comes to Amazon and looks ahead to a world where robots and humans co-exist and what that means as artificial intelligent beings have the ability to not only be fully integrated into our society. Synths, are the intelligent beings that run thouseholds but one of the members of this group makes a family uncomfortable when she seems to have more awareness. Humans examines and follows the journey of what happens when programmed beings have their own thoughts and memories.
KEY ART COURTESY | Netflix
Family secrets are nothing new but secrets that lead to changing alliances and death are dug back again in the second season of Netflix's Bloodline which is set in the Florida Keys. We're thrust back into figuring out more details on Danny's murder and how John fits into this situation as well as getting to know him better. Meg and Marco are also back as we learn more about them and how they are involved with this insular area. Of course, the matriarch, Sally, is oblivious to all that is taking place as she continues to wonder why there is friction when she is oblivious to what is going on around her.
BOOK COVER COURTESY | Simon & Schuster
Set in Glacier National Park, the surprising death of a wildlife biologist’s shocking death leads to chilling discoveries about a home for troubled teens in this haunting and compelling new crime novel.
GNP police officer Monty Harris understands that every summer at least one person passes away in the park. But Paul “Wolfie” Sedgewick’s fatal fall from the sheer cliffs near Going-To-the-Sun Road is incomprehensible. Wolfie was an experienced and highly regarded wildlife biologist who knew all too well the perils that Glacier’s treacherous terrain presents—and how to avoid them.
With emotions riding high, Monty senses in his gut that something isn’t right. He discovers that Wolfie’s zealous studies of Glacier’s mysterious, embattled wolverine population, so vital to park ecology, had met resistance, both local and federal.
Christine Carbo is an author who has lived an eventful life including a flight attendant , and pilates instructor.
BOOK COVER COURTESY | Simon & Schuster
This psychological thriller of secrets and obsession introduces us to Lizzie Carter a year after her husband, Zach's, death. She is wracked with a mixture of guilt, regret and relief.
Her friends remind her that her time to mourn should stop, she knows a darker side of a man that won't let her forget. While leaving flowers at the site of his tragedy, she notices another floral arrangement that was left by Xenia - who could that be?
As she learns about his past, she realizes that she doesn't know him and that he may not be gone.
Sabine Durrant is a former assistant editor of The Guardian and a former literary editor at The Sunday Times.
BOOK COVER COURTESY | Simon & Schuster
In this tale of love and obsession set in Seattle, shares the lives of four people whose world's collide in a life-altering moment.
When Rawn, a schoolteacher, and D’Becca, a supermodel, meet, their electric chemistry leads to a relationship of passion and intimacy that neither anticipates—until Rawn’s seductive friend and colleague Sicily introduces him to emotionally fragile fashion designer Tamara.
Packed with sexy, page-turning drama, Vulnerable illustrates the complexity of desire and emotion, the weakness in human nature, and the fragility and spontaneity of fate.
Read more from the May Issue
How anyone can be creative – and have the power to change the world
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTEST | Shutterstock
Do you believe that some people are just born creative, and others just aren’t? That there are some people that are born to lead and the rest of us are destined to follow? Is there some rare quality that makes some people have an impact, while others can’t? A new book by Adam Grant, The Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World blows the lid of these assumptions. Yes, you can be creative in ways you never thought, you can even change the world – you just have to have faith in your own ideas and be willing to learn the right way to bring them to success.
Adam Grant is a professor of business at the University of Pennsylvania, who’s known for being accessible and really people smart. A friend of mine gave me his prior book Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success as a gift (appropriately). The premise of the book is that success is not just a matter of hard work, talent and luck, it’s increasingly about interactions with other people. He looks at people along three types – Givers, Takers and Matchers. He looked at how different types of people became successful in life and in their careers. Takers are those that that often get the most credit for accomplishments, building on the contributions of others that may not get recognized. Takers tend to be more calculating about the returns they get for their efforts. Givers often donate their time and resources without expecting specific payback. In some circumstances, this doesn’t always work to their benefit. Matchers tend to network between the two types. What Grant found was that Givers often see indirect payoffs over the longer term because of the goodwill and trust they build up over time.Adam Grant’s analysis is inspiring, because he lays out how you can do well by doing good. There is a method to the madness.
In Originals, Adam Grant makes an important point – that you should not be overly concerned with following conventional wisdom if you have an idea you feel passionately about. He uses an example that hit painfully close to home: Warby Parker, the successful eyewear startup named as the most innovative company in the world in 2015 by Fast Company. He was approached by the co-founders of Warby Parker in 2009 to be an early investor in the company – and he passed on the opportunity. It was the worst financial decision he ever made, so he decided to understand what went wrong.
The co-founders of Warby Parker found their idea by asking why eyeglasses had to be so expensive? They did some research and found an industry that was 80% dominated by one company – Luxxotica – that charged high prices because they had so little competition. None of the founders had a background in eyewear, or fashion, or e-commerce – but they started up the company because they saw they realized there was another way to do things. They were all students at the time, and they worked on the idea in their spare time while working at internships. To Grant, they seemed unwilling to take the big risks typically associated with startup founders – quitting to go all in with guns blazing. This was enough to convince him not to invest. But what he found later, after doing more research, was that many successful startup founders hedge their bets and proceed cautiously – because what they are actually doing is reducing risk!
One of the key insights from Originals is that experts – and related experience are not always the best source of original ideas. The most innovative ideas often come from people with skills and experience from different areas. He tells the story of Rick Ludwin, a television executive who had experience in variety shows and specials and his unlikely experience creating new kind of sitcom. Ludwin had experience writing jokes and selling them to Bob Hope, but he had never written a sitcom or developed one. He pushed an unconventional idea through, hiring writers who had not worked in sitcoms before and his project ended up being the most successful comedy of all time: Seinfeld.
It does help to be get familiar with failure - the more ideas you try out, you’ll have a better chance of success. Composers like Beethoven and painters like Picasso owed their success in large part to the fact that they were prolific enough that even a small proportion if their output were masterpieces.
But don’t feel bad if you don’t wake up every day and attack your deadlines. Timing is important, and procrastination can also be an invaluable technique when you’re trying to collect your ideas. Coretta Scott King tells the story about Martin Luther King’s “I have a Dream” speech. King worked on it the whole night before without sleeping a wink and he knew it was going to be important. After months of preparation and a written speech – what happened? During the address, the singer Mahalia Jackson shouted from behind him “Tell em about the dream Martin” – and he pushed aside his notes and launched into his vision for the future. In front of all those people and cameras – he winged it.
What Adam Grant has found is that there is not one road to happiness or success, and there are as often exceptions as rules to conventional wisdom. Early movers don’t always win, and you don’t have to take the biggest risks. There are a plenty of ways you can hack your own creativity, and sometimes the best
opportunities come from what looks like failure. You can be a pioneer – or you can be a settler. You can be a young genius – or an old master. You can be a lone wolf – or you can be a social animal and still succeed. The key is to always think twice about whatever you do – and it never hurts to get a second opinion.
There are a few things that anyone can do to stimulate their own creativity:
1) Have a hobby. A study of Nobel Prize winning scientists by a team of 15 University of Michigan researchers found that winners were 2X more likely than average scientists to play a musical instrument; 7X greater than average to be involved in arts or crafts; 12X more likely to be a writer and 22X more likely to be a performer.
2) Get your peers involved in evaluating your ideas. The best ideas can be vetted and improved by soliciting feedback and ideas from peers.
3) Immerse yourself in a new culture: Living overseas for a while can change your perspective and give you new touchstones for creative ideas.
So the conclusion here is that you should never be too hard on yourself if you don’t think you’re cut out to be creative or for success. There’s always a path, and each person’s path looks different. To be an Original is not as difficult as it sounds – after all there are over 7 billion of us on the world, and no two will ever be alike. Embrace it.
Ed Maguire has worked as an equity analyst covering the technology sector since 1999 for a variety of firms including CLSA Americas, Merrill Lynch and CIBC. Previously he led sales for independent music distributor Twinbrook Music while working as professional musician performing on bass, violin and keyboards, composing, arranging and producing a variety of styles of music. Ed holds a B.A. in Music from Columbia and an M.B.A. from Rutgers in Finance and Management Information Systems. He lives in Millburn, NJ with his wife Lily, their two kids and the dog Spock.
Read more from the May Issue
PHOTO COURTESY | The Bar Method
The Bar Method has been one of the fastest growing workouts nationwide. Friends who can do it seem to have unreal flexibility, flat stomachs, and toned arms. More than that, there is an air of relaxation that Bar Method enthusiasts have about them. Simple strong movements that engage your core muscles while stretching you out seems a lot easier than it actually is. Recently, I took a Bar Method class with good friend and instructor Rebecca Hidalgo and as a Soul Cycle regular, I expected it to be a breeze. Within three minutes, I was shaking, awakening muscle groups that a cardio class does not get to. Hidalgo, calling every person out by name as if they were life-long friends, corrected my form while giving the class pointers on how to improve - no matter what level you may be on. I sat down with Hidalgo after class to talk to learn more about Bar Method. We chatted about how she first started adding it to her workout regimen, how patience is a much needed virtue in Bar Method, and her advice to first-time skeptics and season veterans.
Nisim Frank: What was your inspiration behind starting with Bar Method?
Rebecca Hidalgo: I started taking Bar Method classes in high school- my aunt who loves trying new types of workout routines recommended I try it, being that I had been training in dance for many years. It's by no means a "dance" workout, however it does employ elements and forms of ballet, which I found very fun, safe and effective. What I found appealing about this type of workout was that the instructors were motivational, however very attentive to my form (and everyone's) when giving corrections. This was important to me because it helped me to be more aware of my body and the specific muscles I was supposed to be working and feeling in each exercise and stretch.
I went to Bar Method classes more frequently my senior year of college, being that the Brooklyn studio opened up not too far from where I live. I was also still recovering from ACL/meniscus surgery, and Bar Method was a great supplement to my physical therapy, being that it can be very rehabilitative and has specific modifications in every exercise for certain injuries. I found myself going almost every day and really seeing and feeling results (more toned arms and shoulders, flatter stomach, increased flexibility, etc). The atmosphere of the studio really attracted me as well, it's very warm and welcoming to people of different ages and body-types. I auditioned to be an instructor, got chosen, went through months of intense and rewarding training, and the rest is history!
NF: Can you give three pointers for somebody who is just starting the Bar Method class?
RH: Patience in two ways. First, be patient with getting to know correct form. To some people it comes easier, for others it takes a little longer.
The Bar Method is an extremely mindful workout which requires focus and body-awareness. As instructors, we do our best to help you get into perfect form, both verbally and with hands-on adjustments. Sometimes for newer clients, they are simply not used to engaging certain muscles isometrically while working their alignment and posture at the same time. And that's okay! Even extremely seasoned clients (and instructors) sometimes need a reminder or adjustment. That's what makes Bar Method such a great workout, you are constantly learning how to engage new parts of your body, constantly improving your form and being constantly being able to challenge yourself further...which brings me to....
1. Be patient with results. We recommend coming 3-5 times a week to see and feel results, however everybody's body works differently and has different capabilities. If the person next to you can take the splits options during stretches, that doesn't mean that you are a worse student. There are days where even I (and I'm pretty flexible) choose not to take certain challenge options or stretch options because my body is telling me "not today". Listen to your body and your own capabilities. Especially for your own safety! Also, when it comes to your own personal goals, whether they be weight loss, toning, increased flexibility--again, everybody's body is different and will show results in different ways/take different amounts of time to do so.
2. Ask Questions! As instructors, we are happy to help when it comes to whatever question you have about the class, your own personal form, etc. Don't be embarrassed if after a few classes you still aren't understanding a specific exercise, please let us know! One of my favorite things about being an instructor is working with clients individually for a few minutes after class if they want to work on the form of a spe-
cific exercise we did in class that day. No detail is too small for us to be able to help you with.
3. Have fun. If you're struggling in the last set of thigh and your legs are shaking like a leaf (a good thing by the way), do whatever will make you feel like a superhero in those last 10 or 20 reps. Maybe that means sinking 3 inches lower, maybe that means smiling, maybe that means closing your eyes and letting the music pump you up. Have a positive mindset going in and you will feel super accomplished afterwards.
NF: Any nutritional advice to support yourself before/after the workout?
RH: Definitely eat something before class- something that will give you fuel however not something too heavy. We do quite a bit of abdominal work and quick breathing, so let's just say that I deeply regretted the one time I ate a whole Chipotle burrito before class. ::laughs:: As for any workout regimen, you need to supplement your workout with a relatively healthy diet in order to feel or see results. Again, this is going to vary from person to person. What you eat before class will also depend on the time of day--if you're one of our 6AM warriors, you're most likely not going to wake up at 5AM and make yourself an omelette, coffee, and juice. Maybe a granola bar and yogurt is your vibe, or a smoothie. In any case, whatever fuels you at that time. Also remember to hydrate yourself! You are welcome to bring a water bottle into class with you, so hydrate before, during, and after class.
NF: For somebody a little more experienced who has gone 5-7 times, whats the next step in Bar?
RH: The great thing about Bar Method is that it never gets easier- the workout is what YOU put into it. As your form improves, you will be able to take more challenge options offered in class. If you've been coming frequently, I would say the next step is to set a personal goal as to how you would like to proceed and improve. Mixed Level is our basic Bar Method class-- That is to say, anyone can take it whether it is your 1st or 100th class. If you would like to focus more on your form and have a slightly slower paced class, maybe try out a Level 1 class. We offer Level 2 classes, as well as Bar Move (a faster paced, more cardio-based version), which require that you have taken 20 or more Mixed Level classes. Maybe set a goal for yourself to work up to being able to take a Level 2 or Move class!
NF: I took your class and love that you know everybody by name- How is the community aspect of it?
RH: Knowing everyone by name is very important for us at The Bar Method. Giving clients individual attention is an extremely helpful way not only to help them be more aware of their bodies, but to motivate them as well! Community is very important for us as well--fitness is a very personal journey, and being able to trust the people helping guide you along the path is necessary. The studio is also a great place to meet fun, welcoming, and like-minded people from all walks of life.
NF: What is a good supplemental workout to do with Bar?
RH: Bar Method is a great workout on it's own, however if you're someone who likes to do different types of exercise, it is also well paired with running or cycling. The reason for this being that Bar Method uses isometric movements and stretching to tone and elongate your muscles, as well as to improve posture. If you enjoy high-cardio workouts such as cycling or running
barre workouts will help to stretch out the muscles that tend to shorten and bulk up during those routines. It will also help with your alignment, which will make the way you approach other exercises a lot safer for your body.
NF: Any advice you've learned from your students?
RH: The more I get to know my students, the more I am able to see how I can help and challenge them further. I learn something new about someone every time I teach a class. It is extremely heartwarming for both me and them when I see someone accomplish something physically that they were maybe not able to do a month ago. My students (and fellow instructors) have taught me a lot about patience and progress.
Rebecca Hidalgo is a 23 year-old New York City-based actress, dancer, multimedia performer and creator. She loves that moment when your subway transfer is directly across the platform and is a proud cat mom. Follow her on Instagram at @r_dalgo and book a class at The Bar Method in Brooklyn at 267 Pacific Street.
Nisim Frank is based in NYC and is the Co-Founder of Labeling Men.
Read more from the May IssueMay Issue
SHOT AT El Barrio Artspace | PHOTOGRAPHY Fernando Sippel | STYLIST Kimmie Smith | MUA Angel Morales | HAIR Selda Cortes | MODEL Viktoria Avramchuck/MAJOR MODEL |
OPENING SPREAD | Mesh One Piece Swimsuit YANDY.COM | High Waisted Skirt WOW COUTURE | Earrings and Cubed Pendant Necklace E SHAW JEWELS | Gold Bracelet SEQUIN JEWELRY | IMG 1 LEFT | One Piece Mesh Cut Out YANDY.COM | Shine 2 MISFIT | Earrings and Amethyst Necklace E SHAW JEWELS | IMG 1 RIGHT | Zipped Dress WOW COUTURE | Layered Necklace and Earrings SEQUIN JEWELRY | IMG 2 LEFT Colorblock Swimsuit YANDY.COM | Seashell Necklace E SHAW JEWELS | IMG 2 RIGHT | One Piece Swimsuit YANDY.COM | Earrings and Necklace E SHAW JEWELS | IMG 3 LEFT | Banded Crop Top WOW COUTURE | White Short AMENPAPA | Statement Necklace and Stacked Bracelet SEQUIN JEWELRY | IMG 3 RIGHT | CUT OUT BODY SUIT WOW COUTURE | Raincoat HELLY HANSEN | Shine 2 MISFIT |
Read more from the May Issue
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | iStock
The second week of #SUMM3RFRIDAY giveaways kicks off - congrats to last week's winner! This week is another grouping of brands (some will flow throughout the season and others will pop in depending on the week). Click the above link to enter and remember, the 1 winner that is selected will also be able to gift 2 of his/her friends. Each week, we will have 1 winner in NYC and 1 in Miami. Each city may have different partners who are participating in that week's giveaway.
This week's giveaway includes BCBG Max Azria, Dove, The Loop and Victorinox.
Read more from the May issue
The unofficial Summer Weekend starts on Memorial Weekend. That means heading to the Hamptons, Malibu and more for long weekends. All you need are the perfect go to items to keep you looking refreshed. As always, we have a few items that you need to pop onto your list if you have yet to do so!
| Voyager Weekender EDDIE HARROP | Optic White High Impact White Toothpaste COLGATE | Optic White Toothbrush + Whitening Pen COLGATE | Lisse Luxe Hair Turban AQUIS | All Bright Cleansing Face Wipes BOTANICS | HubPlus MYCHARGE | Gravity Mud GLAMGLOW | Blister Plasters COMPEED | Sea Lily Jasmine Sugar Scrub MAYFAIR SOAP FOUNDRY | Final Spritz Body Mist Lavendar Fields YOU ARE AMAZING | Acai Berry Lip Balm BURT'S BEES | Screen + Device Cleaner WHOOSH! |
PHOTOS COURTESY | Pixabay
There's never a good time to move, but there are tips to make this process as smooth as possible. Ross Saipr, CEO/Founder of Roadway Moving broke down some easy steps/tips for us to keep in mind so that we won't miss a thing and can make the process as seamless as possible!
As soon as you know that you are moving, it’s time to book the movers. It is worth hiring a moving company—as opposed to trying it all by yourself—as it will save you stress, potential injury, and could even save you money on moving materials, insurance, and any furniture that you may have damaged while attempting to move.
Whether it is an actual physical file of documents, a file saved to the cloud, or both, it is important to have on hand all of your important moving details. Open one up as soon as you know that you are moving, and add to it as things arise. Keep this file accessible—with you at all times—as you move, so that you can view any necessary documents when you need them.
You will need to know, and get in touch with, new doctors, school for your kids, dentists, vets if you have pets, grocery stores, and other essential amenities. Make sure that you transfer all important records to your new location.
It’s time for that clear out that you’ve been planning for months. Go through your house from room to room and get rid of things that you no longer use, wear, or that are not working anymore. If you need to ease your guilt over getting rid of things, try donating them instead of throwing them out, and you will feel like you are doing some good at the same time.
There are a lot of places that will provide you with cheap or free packing materials. For example, you can often get free boxes from grocery stores. Start collecting early, and then you can spread out the burden of packing over a few weeks—rather than doing it all the night before you move!
Measure and record the size of your new place so that you know exactly how much space you have, and what will fit where. It will also help when you are directing the movers as to where they should put things.
This can take time, so make sure that you are on top of it, and you won’t lose any important mail.
You will probably need at least a day or two to get settled, so if you are planning on keeping your current job, make sure that you arrange some time off in advance.
Real friends help friends move. It's not al-ways the most coveted job, but moving is something that most people will help out with — so the least you can do is give them some time to prepare.
Once everything is moved, you are not going to want to try to rummage through all of your boxes in search of a set of clothes for the next day, or even pajamas to sleep in, so it helps if you have an overnight bag packed and with you.
Don’t forget to eat! You will only become more stressed and irritable if you are hungry while moving. Pick somewhere to eat out near your new house and take a well-earned break to rest and replenish.
Especially if you are renting, you will need to take inventory of the new place and make sure that there are no damages for which you will be blamed upon moving out. Take note of everything and take pictures if necessary. If you are not renting, this might be a good time to run through and clean anything that will be more difficult to get to once it is filled with furniture.
Before you leave your old residence for good, make sure you do a final, thorough run through to make sure that you haven’t left anything behind. Especially if you are renting, clean up after yourself and the movers.
PHOTOS COURTESY | Mike Dunn
Athleisure Mag tapped technology icon, Mike Dunn to start our new series on Traiblazers, devoted to giving a spotlight to innovators that rock the boardroom and hit it hard in sports, and lifestyle activities while on trips or away from work.
Mike's background is truly impressive, he has more than 30 years experience scaling top technology platforms for fast-growth companies. He is currently the Chief Information Officer of VER, a leading global entertainment services company. He was CTO of TrueCar, helping them to go public in 2014. Prior, he served as CTO of Hearst Interactive Media, the venture capital arm of Hearst Corporation; Corporate CTO for Time Warner; founding CTO for Dell Online; and technology executive roles with Turner and Hanna-Barbera. Mike makes frequent public speaking appearances on such subjects as technology due diligence, the semantic web and online video technologies.
ATHLEISURE MAG: What got you interested in outdoor activities and how often do you get to do them?
MIKE DUNN: I grew up an army brat, living on numerous bases around the world, including the West Point. I spent lots of time outdoors as a kid, since the officer’s neighborhoods on bases were pretty safe places for kids. West Point is a very wooded campus, with tons of hiking trails, so I got into hiking and exploring at a very young age.
I try to do some form of outdoor activity multiple times a week. My favorites are mountain biking, snowboarding, hiking and surfing.
AM: What are your favorite activities and what were the difficult aspects learning them?
MD: I started surfing when I was 12. When my dad did his second tour in Vietnam we lived in Hawaii and then he was stationed there right after, so we ended up living in Hawaii for over 5 years. Normally we moved every 3 years. I took to surfing quickly and it came naturally. I loved the power of the ocean, and the adrenaline rush that came with surfing, especially big waves. I also use to ride my banana seat bike all over the dirt trails around the island of Oahu, a precursor to my mountain biking passion.
I started mountain biking in the 80’s when I lived in Los Angeles. I was playing ice hockey at a pretty high level and riding a bike to stay in shape between practices and games. LA streets didn’t have many bike lanes back then so it was really dangerous on the roads. I saw one of the early mountain bikes in a local bike shop and decided to get one to get away from cars. It was a rigid steel framed bike with no shocks and cantilever brakes, it's very old school compared to today’s modern mountain bikes, but so much fun to explore LA trails.
Snowboarding I picked up later in life when we moved to New England, but it came pretty easy to me, given my surfing background, so I progressed quickly. I was mountain biking from the spring to fall but only playing hockey in the winter and I was looking for something to fill the adrenaline and exercise gap.
My two boys were little and they also took to snowboarding quickly. It's a great family sport because you spend time in the car getting there, time in the cabin together and then on the lifts. We love it. All three require a lot of practice and commitment. Speed and balance are critical but so is managing progression, thus it's not about getting ahead of your capabilities. The gold medalist Olympian Ross Powers held a camp in Vermont every spring that my youngest son would attend. Ross coined the phrase “easy stylin'” to remind kids to progress with your abilities while still challenging yourself to improve. It’s a great lesson that works for all the extreme sports I love.
AM: What are some key and advanced skills and mindset needed? How long does it take to hone in on these skills?
MD: All three of these activities require an understanding of the natural elements. So being aware of conditions and your surroundings is key to your safety and enjoyment. The other important similarity is they require single-minded focus. When charging a wave or trails, you cannot be thinking about anything else.
AM: What advice do you have about learning in general?
MD: I’m always learning new things and trying to improve, both in my career and my outdoor pursuits. Listening to experts, researching and trying new ways to do things that improve your abilities, whether at work or play.
AM: What types of mountain biking do you enjoy most? What trails and courses do you love most?
MD: When I lived in New England, I loved riding the hilly technical terrain, wet slippery rocks and roots. Now that I'm back in SoCal, it involves much more climbing to descend. I still like technical challenges, so I do some technical all mountain trails as well as #xc. I don’t really do bike parks anymore, the rush of catching air off of big jumps - I’ll leave for younger riders. I do like going fast, so love finding trails where you can let of the brakes and go for it.
AM: How often have you had the opportunity to enjoy recreational/outdoor activities when travelling? What have been your favorite? What are on your bucket list to go do and explore?
MD: My favorite resort is Whistler. I’ve been there snowboarding, but not for mountain biking yet. I would like to go back one summer. New Zealand is a bucket list location that I’d like to visit since it’s got world class surfing, snowboarding and mountain biking.
AM: Do you measure performance, progress, and personal bests when going out and riding? What is being in the zone for you?
MD: I track myself snowboarding and mountain biking. How many laps, distance, vertical, speed, heart rate are all great data points to understand, measure and learn. In the zone is about focus, being completely in the moment for the activity. Usually, it’s required so that you’re safe, so if you’re distracted then something may go wrong.
AM: What bikes and gear do you use and what’s on your wishlist?
MD: I ride Niner bikes. I have a hardtail steel cross country bike that’s great at climbing and can descend all, but the most technical trails. Then I have an all-mountain (#enduro) full suspension long travel bike that climbs good for its size but can descend at speed any trail except possibly a jump line at a bike park.
I use flat pedals and wear five ten shoes which I think are the best #mtb shoes made. I like gear from Alpinestars and Fox a lot so I tend to wear their kneepads, shorts, shirts and gloves. Kali Protectives is the helmet I like, their enduro model has saved me many times. Falling is a part of the sport. I also wear a helmet snowboarding.
AM: What were the best experiences you have had?
MD: A trip I took with my youngest son to Whistler years ago was amazing. Today, I get to mountain bike with him a lot in SoCal, so that’s pretty cool too.
AM: What do you love about nature, outdoor activities and adventure seeking?
MD: Doing fun stuff in nature, especially mountains. For me it's about life-balance, escapism, seeing beautiful places with amazing vistas.
AM: What was one or two of the most breathtaking views you had?
MD: Whistler is incredible, but so is Stowe in Vermont, Sugarloaf in Maine and Tremblant in Canada. I’ve never been to the top of a mountain that didn’t have a view I loved as the prize for climbing it.
AM: Have you had any bad falls? What went through your mind?
MD: Oh yeah, I’ve had many. My favorite doctor used to tell me he’d much rather treat an active lifestyle, than a sedentary one. Most recently I endo’d on my mtb while navigating a technical section at to high a speed last summer and broke my collarbone, which required surgery to put in a titanium device. I was off the bike for 8 weeks, but started riding a stationary bike after a week to keep up my conditioning.
I’ve had to have 80 stitches to close up a gashed open thigh and over 50 micro-stitches to re-attach an ear from surfing incidents and I’ve broken my ankle snowboarding. These are fast contact sports.
AM: Who are your inspirations in recreational outdoor sports? Who would you want to share adventures with?
MD: I’ve been lucky enough to be around a lot of top riders and surfers over the many decades I’ve been doing them. Jake Burton, John Tomac and Derek Ho are favorites from each sport.
AM: Have you changed your diet to help your performance?
MD: I’ve been a vegetarian for over 35 years. I’m very regimented in what I eat and drink before, during and after any extreme activity. It helps me with endurance and recovery. I always drink a lot of water and I’m kind of a beer snob, so I never drink mass produced beer, but I do enjoy a good local craft brewed libation.
AM: Do you wear any wearables or smart clothing when riding or doing other sports?
MD: I’ve used iPhone apps to track my #mtb and snowboarding for years. Strava with a heart strap helps me understand my performance zones, plus I also use my watch health app to see at a glance what my heart rate is in real-time.
AM: Do you see new technologies impacting the sports?
MD: HUDs are entering into goggles for snowboarding, but I don’t think I’d welcome the distraction in a sport that requires so much focus. I have a heads up display on my car and even it can get distracting. VR for trail knowledge and exposure, especially for enduro and dh makes a lot of sense. New safety technology, such as helmet designs to reduce head injuries and soft pads that get rigid on impact but don’t cause restriction during normal use are very welcome.
AM: What are some of your core principles for well-living?
MD: Live a balanced life, food is fuel but can also taste good, drink lots of water, have fun.
AM: How do you maintain work-life balance? How often do you get to enjoy adventure activities?
MD: I try to ride between 40-60 miles of mtb a week. I do this by either riding early or at night during the week and then get in two longer rides on the weekend. I try not to go more than two days without riding. My vacations are usually used for snowboarding or mtb.
PHOTO COURTESY | HGTV
We love a good taco around Athleisure Kitchen and this month, we shared some recipes from a foodie influencer and former The Bachelor/Bachelorette contestant who is an HGTV TV Personality.
Serves: 12 small tacos
Ingredients
Ancho Chicken
•½ cup white whole wheat flour (all purpose also works)
•2 teaspoons ancho chili powder
•1 teaspoon southwestern or taco seasoning
•a generous pinch of salt and pepper
•2 tablespoons oil
•1½ lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tacos and Toppings
•12 small corn tortillas
•a few green cabbage leaves, shredded
•one bunch cilantro, chopped
•toppings: lime wedges, sour cream, jalapeño slices, avocado slices, minced green or red onions
Instructions
1. Toss the cabbage and cilantro together. Prep the other toppings.
2. Combine the flour, ancho chili powder, southwestern seasoning, and salt and pepper in a shallow dish.
3. In a heavy duty pan, heat the oil to medium high heat. Cut the chicken breasts in half or quarters, toss in the flour mixture, and add to the pan. Cook for a few minutes; flip, and cook for another few minutes until the outside is browned and the inside is no longer pink. Remove from heat, sprinkle with a little more salt, and allow to rest for a few minutes. Cut or shred the chicken into small pieces.
4. Warm tortillas (I just microwave for a 20 seconds or so) and assemble with the chicken and toppings. Be generous with the lime juice and jalapeños for extra zing!
Ingredients
Corn Tortillas
Peach Salsa
Avocado Cream (recipe below)
Cilantro
Fresh Halibut
1 can of Beer
1 1/2 cup Flour
1 tsp Baking Powder
2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
1 tsp of Salt
Cholula sauce
Philips Airfryer
Instructions
1. On a plate, lay out corn tortillas, top with peach salsa, set aside.
2. Slice your halibut into small strips.
3. Mix 1 cup flour, salt, baking powder and enough beer until you have a nice consistency
4. Toss the halibut in remaining flour to give it an initial coating, then place it in the beer batter mixture until coated.
5. Set on GREASED philips air fryer rack and cook 6-8 minutes at 200 degrees until golden.
6. Place fish on top of salsa mixture top with avocado cream, more cilantro if desired and Cholula sauce.
Avocado Cream:
1 large avocado
3/4 cup buttermilk
Juice from 1/2 lime
Mix in a blender until smooth
