THE PICK ME UP

Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Pick Me Up in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | SPIDERBANDS

We had a chance to check out Spiderbands last month at an editor event for an accessory brand. We enjoyed the method and had to find out more about it. Created by Franci Cohen, a group exercise instructor, and fitness expert for over two decades, she launched Spiderbands, in November 2017 in New York City within one of NYCs fitness hubs -  Union Square.

After years of implementing science-based theories into her fitness practice, Franci realized that the most efficient way to burn maximum calories and sculpt lean muscle in record time, without any impact to the joints, would be to create an apparatus that leverages body weight with a buoyancy that allows one to draw more from their inner strength, getting faster and better results, all while flying high (literally) and having fun!

There are six kinds of classes that are offered at Spiderbands: Spiderkix (aerial concepts and inversions engage muscles ignored by traditional kickboxing classes - it's also "gloves off"), Spider Jumpstrike (combining Spiderbands, boxing, kickboxing and mini tramp), Spiderdome (this class combines Spiderbands with utilizing the reactive surface of the bosu), Signature Spiderbands (a single focus class where you work with just the Spiderbands solely), Spider Circuit (a straight forward circuit workout that includes burpees, jumping jacks, squats, and all the staples with an added Spider twist), and Athletic Fly (the combination of athletes and hand-standers come together in an unprecedented athletic acro class which uses basic acrobatic foundations that builds a high intensity cardio combination while you jump, flip and fly).

Guests have access to luxurious locker rooms, showers filled with high end products by Philosophy, hair dryers, plush towels, wet bags for your sweaty clothes post-workout, Spiderbites (their signature energy bites), water bottles, and more.

Spiderbites are little balls of bliss, with just the right combination of ingredients to fuel you pre and post workout. They are high in fiber, low in calories, and are decadent to eat!

This fitness method is in the preliminary stages of developing a live steaming platform. Soon, those who are interested in being able to fly with Spiderbands nationwide from their own homes!

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SPIDERBANDS

12 East 14th St.
NY, NY 10003

www.Spiderbands.com

IG @SpiderBands

Read more from the June Issue and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Spiderbands in mag.

HAIR INFLUENCE WITH JEN ATKIN

Known as "The Most Influential Hairstylist in the World," via New York Times, Jen Atkin has styled the tresses and has the most loyal clientele of some of the influential people including Kourtney Kardashian, Katy Perry, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Lopez, Chrissy Teigen, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Gigi and Bella Hadid. In addition to being a Celebrity Hairstylist, she launched OUAI haircare line in 2016, a range of Beauty Works hair extensions, her line of Chloe + Isabel hair accessories and works closely with Dyson to bring their innovative Supersonic blowdryer to market.

With a passion to unite the hair industry and to create a community for hairstylists, she created ManeAddicts.com  in 2014 and provides access to top hairstylists as well as featuring products and instructional videos. Due to its success, she expanded to Mane University, a global education resource that brings top stylists to major cities around the world to inspire hairdressers.

We took a moment to chat with Jen about her career, her favorite summer hair looks as well as a new pop, OUAISPACE that is being held at Gurney's in Montauk.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the ah ha moment that drew you to being a hairstylist? Tell us what your journey has been as you have built your name in the industry to being one of the most sought after hairstylists?

JEN ATKIN: I’ve always loved doing hair and was obsessed with Natalie Imbruglia’s short haircut in her ’Torn’ music video when I was a teenager in Utah. No one could give me the cut I wanted, so I went to the store, bought a pack of shaving razors, and started cutting my own hair. Soon I was cutting all my friends’ hair in my parent’s garage. After high school, I drove to California with literally only $300 and my Honda Civic hatchback. I called al the salons in Allure's beauty directory until finally someone returned my call and I started working as a receptionist at Estilo Salon in Beverly Hills. I remember running out to feed meters for Bette Midler and I was so excited and thought “I could move back home that was enough for me” lol.

I’ve just really worked hard and tried to be an honest good person.  I’m so lucky I’ve had such support from my clients and friends.

AM: In 2016, you created OUAI - why did you want to add a haircare line to your ecosystem?

JA: It felt very odd to me that there were a lot of men in boardrooms making decisions about what women want for our hair. I wanted to create the first product line a community helped create, promoting a realistic lifestyle that feels inclusive. It was important for me to have a group of women talking to other women about their haircare needs.  I think that more brands are trying to empower women. I want to change the conversation in business and beauty! I wanted to stop making the conversation only about women being pretty and start celebrating the spirit and power of being a woman in business.

AM: Why and how did the partnership between Gurney's Resorts come about?

JA: We’ve had pop-ups in NY & LA before so it only felt natural to partner w/ Gurney’s in Montauk.

AM: Will there be future integrations of OUAISPACE of this nature like this and if so why did you start at Gurney's first?

JA: Yes! The look and feel of Gurney’s is so relaxing and just feels easy. Which goes hand-in-hand with what OUAI’s aesthetic is.

AM: With summer hair dreams in our minds what are 3 products that are a must to give you perfect beach hair?

JA: OUAI Rose Hair & Body Oil – Rosehip Oil reduces the appearances of scars and redness and is known to lock in moisture, so it’s great for both skin and hair.

OUAI Sun of a Beach Ombré Spray – In the summer people want to spend more time outdoors and less time sitting at their salon. There are new trending ingredients (like the coconut water in our Sun of a Beach) that help keep hair hydrated and give this fun throwback product a modern update.

OUAI Wave Spray – Give your hair natural wave & body without the crunchiness and it’s made with rice protein instead of salt so it won’t dry out your hair.

Christophe Robin Prickly Pear Balm - This is a non-sticky, multipurpose balm infused with all butter and oils to nourish the hair and skin so you can use it all over. Rub some together in your hands and rub it on your ends for a more textured look. To tame frizz, rub a little on your hair and smooth down those flyaway. And for curls, it can be used to redefine and add shine/hold.

AM: What are your favorite products from your line?

JA: My favorites would definitely be the OUAI Treatment Masque because I love the individual packettes that are perfect for throwing in my purse or gym bag and doing a treatment while I work out. I’m also obsessed with the OUAI Dry Shampoo Foam because it’s unlike any other hair products on the market. You can extend between washes 3-4 days. It’s dry shampoo on steroids. You need it in your purse, your gym bag and your hair right now.

AM: What classic updo hairstyle do you suggest should become our go to look this summer? Let us know how we can achieve it and what products we need to have on hand to make it happen.

JA: I suggest the Textured High Pony

1. Pull hair in back into half pony

2. Add the rest of hair and secure with  an elastic at the crown of the head

3. Use OUAI Dry Texture Foam to pony for added volume and fullness

4. Finish with a toothbrush and OUAI Medium Hair Spray to smooth flyaways

AM: When you're not working, where do you go for a cocktails and a great meal, where do you work out and where can we find you shopping?

JA: I love Jon & Vinny's, Alfred Coffee, Barneys New York, Soho House Malibu.

Read more from the June Issue and see Hair Influence with Jen Atkin in mag.

SHE-EDUCATE WITH DR. SHERRY ROSS

When you're out with your girlfriends, you enjoy hanging out and a number of sips - that's when the conversation gets real. You talk about your love life, what you should do in your careers and then its down to talking about what's going on down there. Maybe you have questions or are prepping for when you have your next visit with your OB/GYN. We decided to find out answers to some questions that readers have asked us by talking with Dr. Sherry Ross who is based in Santa Monica. We found that talking with her was like adding her into our tribe of girlfriends!

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background and how you knew that you wanted to be an OB/GYN. In addition, if you can, feel free to let us know about celeb clients that you have worked with.

DR. SHERRY ROSS: When I was a young girl, I would go on hospital rounds with my father who was a Urologist—I must admit that initially I went for the endless supply of donuts and apple juice in the doctor’s lounge. However, over time, I learned firsthand how much my father embraced and loved his patients and loved his profession. I took careful note of his compassion and the positive impact he had on his patients, as well as the powerful impact that my father’s patients had on him. I knew I wanted to be a doctor in order to experience that same powerful and healing give and take. I can honestly say that the most gratifying thing about my 25-year career in medicine has been the relationships and bonds I’ve developed with my patients. I gravitated to OBGYN in my 3rd year of medical school since I loved delivering babies and being a part of such a joyous and memorable experience. Helping women was so satisfying and enjoyable and I really felt as though I could make a difference in their wellness journey.

I felt as though when women's legs go up in stirrups, the conversation really begins and I could serve as their best friend or favorite therapist.

I am fortunate to take care of many A-list celebrities who also are committed to women’s health and wellness.  Reese Witherspoon was incredibly kind and generous to write me a wonderful forward to she-ology. Social and celebrity influences can help promote the messaging of empowering women to take better control of their health and wellness.

AM: We had the chance to have lunch with you. Why do you think that women's health in terms of vaginal issues, questions etc seem to be difficult for women to address and what can we do to  make these conversations easier to have?

DR. SR: Women need to be comfortable talking about their vagina’s. 50% of women never talk about their vaginal health with anyone, not even their doctor. If you can’t even say the word vagina how are we supposed to talk about it? Women need to talk about their specific health care issues, issues that are often ignored and not dealt with. There are very few places where women feel comfortable talking about their vaginas without feeling judged, so at the very least, a doctor’s office should be a bastion of comfort. 90% of women wished they had more information about vaginal health.

The inability to say the word “vagina” has been passed on in our culture from outdated attitudes, societal norms and misconceptions about the vagina and sex.  It doesn’t help that our society as a whole is undeniably juvenile about our approach to vagina. As an example, in June 2012, a bill was presented on the House floor seeking to regulate the use of the word "vagina" after Micigan Representative Lisa Brown was banned from speaking because she used the term in a debate over an anti-abortion bill. "Brown's comment

so offensive, I don’t even want to say it in front of women,” complained Representative Mike Callton (R: Michigan). “I would not say that in mixed company.”

A ban on a word that is a medical term used to describe our female genitalia? Politics and mainstream media will not allow the word "vagina: to be said out loud without some sort of backlash. We need to change this reality for the sake of women’s health, especially since there doesn’t seem to be a problem in mainstream advertising for the treatment of erectile dysfunction!  

I am counting on our younger generations of women to help lead the way and change the narrative on how we talk about our health, our bodies, and especially, our vaginas. Women need to take control of their bodies in every way. We cannot be afraid to ask uncomfortable questions. We need to learn and explore the changes our bodies experience throughout our lifetime.

The conversation needs to start at a young age with our girls, daughters, nieces and granddaughters.

It’s not just one “talk” we need to have with our daughters. There are many “talks” about their bodies and overall health that needs to happen depending on the developmental (hormonal!) milestone and what is age-appropriate. Before you start talking about human sexuality and sexual behaviors you have to have created an environment where your daughter feels comfortable discussing other sensitive topics such as puberty, proper nutrition, body image issues, recreational alcohol, tobacco and drug use.

When young girls learn about their body part—“here is my nose, my ears, my belly button”---they need to learn and use the word vagina from an early age so they become comfortable with their own anatomy. When mothers teach their daughters code names for their vagina, such as "Vajaja", this does not move the needle in the right direction of changing this narrative.

If mothers or other role models to young girls don’t initiate these types of sensitive topics, your daughter will find other ways of learning about her health and wellness from other resources. This is where the problem lies. Social media and porn have damaged our children in how they look at themselves.

It’s important for moms to normalize these conversations between a mother and daughter. The more comfortable and candid you can make these conversations, the more relaxed your daughter will be when her breast buds, period, body image concerns and sexual health issues present themselves to her.  

In life there are a handful of sensitive subjects that feel completely awkward between a mother and a daughter and talking about her first period, breast development, pubic hair, the vagina,  where babies come from and sexual health. In

truth, talking about your sexual health may be a completely off limit subject between mom and daughter.

Even though the average age of a young girl getting her period is 12 years old, puberty, in all its glory, starts as early as 8years old. Breast buds are noticeable 2 years before the period actually starts and can be detected between 8 to 13years.  Pubic hair, hair under your arms and legs and acne also joins the hormonal party during the "tween" years. It's important to skowly and comfortably ease your daughter ito talking about her body and changes associated with puberty which empowers young women to embrace their body in a healthy way.

Promote body confidence. Teach your daughter about her body, use the correct descriptive terms when talking about her breasts, vagina and period.  If young girls and women are not able to confidently own the proper words to describe their female body parts, it makes it difficult to comfortably talk about their personal needs and experiences.  

AM: Vaginal care is an essential and we liked your analogy to taking care of this area as we do our faces. Can you break that down for us?

DR. SR: The one thing I wish women knew was where their vulva was located on their "vagina". This is vagina confusion that women will appreciate understanding more about...

You must get to know your vulva and vagina, up close and person. First - let’s be clear what we are talking about regarding the vagina. The “vagina” actually includes the vulva, labia-majora (outer lips) and labia minora (inner lips), the opening to the vagina is called the introitus, the inner vagina, the urethra (small opening leading to the bladder), the clitoris and the protective hood of the clitoris. The inside of the vagina, where tampons go, is a temperamental and ultra-sensitive area. 50% of women wonder if their vagina is normal looking. My first and foremost advice to women is to get to know your lady parts, know what your “normal” is so you will know when a potential problem arises.  If you have not done so already, pull out the mirror and get to know your vagina, your vaginal health depends on it. Every woman needs to take a “vagie” to really know this lady part intimately.

Your vulva and vagina are very sensitive to everyday feminine rituals. Using the wrong types of soap can cause irritation and bad odor. Avoid soaps which are heavily perfumed and are not pH balanced which upset your body. Using a gentle, lightly fragranced wash and natural skin moisturizer daily is ideal, especially ones made specifically for the vulva. Your vulva and vagina does need a special cleaning routine and it usually begins with using a special wash and warm water.  You cannot use the same soap to clean your feet and underarms to wash your vagina! I highly recommend Summer's Eve Cleansing Wash made specifically for our most sensitive area on our body. Vagina friendly washes carefully clean the vulva, remove odor-causing bacteria and are balanced for a woman’s natural pH.

Cleaning the outside of the vagina or the vulva, clitoris, and vaginal opening every day with a vagina friendly wash is so important. You can use a wash cloth or your fingers to clean this area in the shower or bath.

AM: Why have you partnered with Summer's Eve and why is it essential to utilize cleansing products like this as opposed to total body soaps that are not formulated for the vagina.

DR. SR: Partnering with Summer’s Eve was an easy and authentic relationship since I wholeheartedly believe women have to care for their vagina in the same way we care for the skin of our face. Using vagina friendly and specially made products for this sensitive and temperamental area of our body is so important and necessary. Summer Eve’s has been around since the 70’s and they have created products for the vagina that are clinically and gynocologist tested for safety in this delicate area. You can’t use an everyday soap on the vagina like most women used daily. When you use a vagina friendly wash that’s designed to be balanced for a woman’s natural pH and sensitive to the vagina you feel fresh and avoid irritating residue. I am on a mission to change the narrative on how we talk and take care of the vagina.

AM: As many of our readers enjoy cycling, hot yoga, pilates etc how do we take care of our vagina in order to ensure that we are keepig it healthy in the midst of these activities.

DR. SR: Certain sports can be hard on the vagina. Cycling and spinning are at the top of this list!

The way the vagina is positioned on the bicycle seat exerts unfamiliar pressure on certain parts of the delicate soft tissue of the labia majora and minor, better known as the "lips" of the vagina. With prolong bicycle rides or spinning classes the intense pressure on certain parts of the vagina, tailbone, lower back and groin creates restriction of blood flow, skin irritation, and ultimately numbness of the area, especially the clitoris. Some women even report disruptive genital pain and discomfort with reduced genital sensation.

Other problems that are associated with cycling, spinning and horseback riding include vaginal infections such as yeast and bacterial due to the poor vaginal ventilation and moisture buildup that occurs with these sports. With constant pressure on the vagina, skin cysts can develop as well. Your cycling posture and the way you sit on the bicycle seat also affects the pressure that is exerted on the delicate parts of the vagina.  

Recumbent cycling does not create the same problems on the vagina that upright cycling cause.  The pressure and problems of the vagina that are typical of upright cycling are transferred to the buttock for those recumbent cyclers causing minimal discomfort.

You can avoid some of these problems by using the appropriate saddle seat, cycling shorts, professional bike fitting, using proper cycling posture, allying emollients and moisturizing creams to the vagina. Also taking a shower or long bath following these types of activities is helpful.

Hot yoga and any activity that brings excessive heat and sweat to the vagina can increase the risk of a yeast infection or vaginal skin irritation. Changing ito clean and dry clothing after these types of workouts is important to prevent these types of problems. I also love the Summer’s Eve Cleansing Cloths to freshen up after a hot workout. They are balanced for a woman’s pH and also get rid of any odor causing bacteria, so I can feel comfortable all day.

AM: Picking an OB/GYN is such a process - what are the questions that we should have to ask our potential caregiver to see if they are a match for our needs.

DR.SR: Many women are given a list of providers to choose from according to their insurance policy. With social media, Yelp and other physician review sites you can and should learn about the doctor you are going to trust with your health. You can always interview a potential doctor first before you commit to making an official office visit. You want to be comfortable with the doctor you select.  Depending on what is important to you, you may want to ask the following questions:

1. Will I get a call back with my test results?

2. Are you accessible via email?

3. How long does it take to get an appointment with you?

4. Will you be calling me back or will it

be one of your office staff members?

5. How often do you suggest I get a pap smear?

6. Make sure the OBGYN is board certified and there are no malpractice claims against them.

The most important quality to find in a new OBGYN is that you feel comfortable talking openly and honestly with her/him.  

AM: Over the last year, we feel that we have learned about conditions that women are battling such as Endo and thanks to social media we have learned about symptoms and the stories of celebs, influencers etc that have given us information - but what is a resource that you suggest that women can use to find out answers to their questions when they aren't talking to their OB/GYN?

DR. SR: Your medical information is as reliable as the source you are using.  I would stick to WebMD, Mayo or Cleveland Clinic and the Harvard Health Newsletter and avoid chat rooms that can lead to a lot of confusion and misinformation.  I also like GoAskAlice.com for relatable and accurate medical information.

AM: Tell us about what are you up to this summer and fall as we know that you are working on a number of things - feel free to share with our readers.

DR. SR: I am working on my next books, She-sequel and the 7 Cycl Systems that women experience. During the summer I enjoy spending time with my sons who come back home for vacations and family time.  My wife who is a high school principal in Watts, California, also has more free time to hang out together.

AM: We know that you have a book out called She-ology. For those that are not patients of yours, how can they connect with you and find out their pressing questions.

DR. SR: You can connect with me by my website drsherry.com and through my social media channels including on Twitter @DrSherylRoss, Instagram @drsherryr @she-ology and on Facebook DrSherryR.

“Recumbent cycling does not create the same problems on the vagina that upright cycling causes. The pressure and problems of the vagina that are typical of upright cycling are transferred to the buttock for those recumbent cycles causing minimum discomfort.”

— Dr. Sherry Ross

AM: We also know that you have created a line of supplements - can you tell us more about that?

DR. SR: My mission is to change the narrative of how women talk and learn about their health and overall well-being.

Over the course of my 25+ years as a practicing OB/GYN and women's health educator, I came to realize that women can experience up to 7 distinct hormonally-driven cycles. Each of these life chapters introduces both unique wellness challenges and opportunities to maximize well-being. During this same time, my patients were asking for potentially harmful prescription medications to deal with concerns such as PMS, stress, and hot flashes and my advice on what products could help them feel their best during complex, hormonal life stages, such as Fertility, Postpartum and Menopause.

I researched extensively to find a credible source of natural, high-quality supplements designed specifically for women and was shocked to discover the impurities found in many supplements — up to 50% of the ingredients can consist of fillers, chemicals, and preservatives.

That's when my 7 Cycls System was born — an easy-to-follow women's health management framework that addresses specific onerns in each of the 7 cycles with scientifically-formulated nutraceuticals to target each life stage.

Ultimately, the 7 Cycl system delivers practical nutrition and wellness advice that’s science-backed and easy to apply.

I embarked on this journey in 2014 and have been refining my formulations over the years through customer feedback.

I’m excited to introduce you to my Co-Founders. Jennifer Beals is an ardent women's healthcare advocate and serves as Cycl’s spokesperson, and Amber Bezahler, our CEO who has tremendous experience in the direct to consumer and eCommerce space.

AM: We know that you are based in Santa Monica and anytime we're out there we're always looking for great spots. Where would we find you going out to grab a bite to eat, where do you workout and where do you shop?

DR. SR: I work out almost every day on my Elliptical located in my garage.  My goal is always to hit 10,000 steps a day. I am a bit obsessed with my Fitbit to make sure I reach this goal.  I spend most of my free time with my family and close friends. Weekly barbeques, family dinners, scrabble games, making puzzles, playing ping pong and binge watching on Netflix are common daily activities for me. One of my favorite places to have dinner and just chill is at Blue Plate Taco or Lares Mexican Restaurant.  My favorite food…is Mexican food, with the hottest salsa possible!

AM: Please feel free to share anything that we have not covered that you would like for our readers to know!

DR: SR: Your Vagina is talking to you ladies, PAY ATTENTION!

Just like any healthy relationship you have to have good communication with your vagina ladies, your vagina is talking to you and you must pay attention to what your vagina is telling you!

You cannot be distracted or be multi-tasking when your vagina needs your undivided attention…because if you don’t pay attention, your vagina will feel excluded, lonely, depressed and anxious and will act out!

Open communication with your vagina will create the foundation for a healthy, happy and sexually satisfying relationship.

This is the year of the women. The #MeToo movement has brought out so many good things through empower ing women to let their voices be heard and mobilize to fight injustice and inequities.  I want women to use the same voice and power to change the face of how women talk about their bodies, especially their vagina’s.

I am here to empower you to have courageous conversations about your bodies. I want all of you to speak out and stand up for the most vulnerable and voiceless among us. I do have an agenda. It includes encouraging women of all ages to take control of their health and well-being and I am challenging women and others to help me change the narrative and status quo on women’s healthcare.

Read more from the June Issue and see She-Educate with Dr. Sherry Ross in mag.

THE ART OF THE SNACK CLASSIC UPDATES

Read more from the June Issue and read The Art of the Snack | Classic Updates in mag.

HE GETS YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER WITH SIDNEY TORRES

We are fans of CNBC, especially their primetime programming. With the second season of The Deed launching on June 13th, we were excited to talk to developer, Sidney Torres on the show, his success at flipping houses, his advice, and his passion for the city of New Orleans which is still coming back from the effects of Hurricane Katrina.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We're excited for season 2 of The Deed. For our readers that may not be familiar with you, tell us about your background (would love to know more about SDT Waste and Debris Services) as well as (The Cove in the Bahamas), FQ Task Force, IV Capital and how you got into being a successful flipper.

SIDNEY TORRES: I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do when I got out of high school and I had to get a job to figure out what I wanted to do. I went to work in the music business, first working the graveyard shift at a radio station and then I got a job working for a musician, Lenny Kravitz, traveling the world for a year and a half. I got fired after living the rock and roll lifestyle and thinking that I was Lenny instead of working for Lenny. That pushed me into going and getting a job working at a construction company sweeping the floor and learning that whole thing. I really enjoyed architecture and I liked real estate I just didn’t know anything about it so I got a job starting from the bottom and worked my way up to a foreman and then I ended up getting my own general contractors license and started doing my own real estate flips. The success in real estate is what gave me the ability to take on other challenges in the community like the crime app and other charity type events.

When Hurricane Katrina hit and the city was in need of help and someone to clean it up, I ended up getting into the garbage business. There was a huge need and I ended up housing a

lot of the first responders. Because of that I became the hub and the place to come for things that needed to get done. I ended up renting a garbage truck and I started helping clean up the city but I wasn’t getting paid for it I did it because we needed to clean the streets from all the debris. That ended up turning into the largest hauling company in seven years in the state of Louisiana. I ended up selling it to a big public company afterwards.

Real estate is really what gave me the ability to do all the charity work, to help out and give back, and allowed me to get into all these businesses. My main passion and love was for restoring old properties and turning slighted houses and neighborhoods into livable communities.

AM: How did The Deed come about and how is this season different than last season?

ST: The Deed came about through CNBC’s executive vice-president, primetime alternative, Jim Ackerman. CNBC reached out to me because they were looking to do a show about real estate and they saw all the work that I was doing in New Orleans and they wanted to feature my company IV Capital, that lends money to up and coming developers as a hard money lender. On The Deed, not only am I providing my expertise, but this is my money that I am investing to aid struggling property investors. We go in and really show the full renovation process, from the financing, to determining and working within the budgets, to the sale of the home, and all of the deals being made from beginning to end.

This season is completely different becayse I am able to get in earlier on the process and affect change. I am able to give these flippers guidance and help them make good choices rather than help them fix mistakes. I am teaching them things like how to value the engineer. What’s also great about Season 2 is that whether you are looking to buy your first home or get into the flipping business, it gives you the lessons to do so.

AM: We don't want to spoil the premiere episode; however, we love that we are introduced to someone who has fallen in love with a flipped house - what are the common situations you find that flippers fall into that are bad habits that you look to break them of?

ST: You’ve got to separate your emotions from your flip. Even your first time home purchase when you are remodeling your house. You always have to keep your eye on your comps and know what things are selling for and what you can invest and what you shouldn’t invest. Always establish your budget on the front end and don’t let your emotions get in the middle of the renovation. It becomes very dangerous when your emotions get involved because you don’t keep the budget at the forefront, you start over investing and taking longer than you should and that is where you can get into a lot of trouble.

AM: What checklist would you suggest for someone who is thinking about flipping to assess whether they are the right person to engage in this investment?

ST: I always say try to mentor with someone you know that is a real estate agent or broker who is seasoned in the real estate business. That is what I did in the early stages. You can tap on the shoulder of a family member or friend to mentor with and kind of shadow for a while to understand whether or not that is what you want to do. I think it's really important for anyone trying to get into this business to really make sure because it’s not as easy as they make it look on TV and there's a lot of things that you have to know if this is the business you want to get into.

AM: Upon deciding that they want to enter the world of flipping what are some "rules of the business" that they should keep in mind when they are selecting a property?

ST: You always need to evaluate your comps. You always need to make sure you are looking at what is on the market, how long it’s been on the market, what are the finishes that they have in there, and understanding the area in which you’re going to develop in so you can always keep that on the forefront as the guidelines for value. What I call value engineering, engineering your development, your flip, to sit within the comp set that has been proven to work. It’s so important even if it’s your first time home purchase to make sure that you get all your pricing for your subcontractors and you know exactly what your budgets are so you’re not in a position when it’s all said and done that you’re over invested.

AM: How are the rules of flipping in terms of design and finishes different then what you would do for your own personal or vacation home?

ST: It all depends on the area you’re in, it all depends on what those comp sets show, and making sure that you understand that. The same principles apply wherever you go it’s just the content changes – the information changes. So the same processes and procedures that I would do in New Orleans or New York or Miami are the same it’s just making sure that you get the correct information from the MLS, from the online sites, from a real estate agent to make sure that you're staying in the guidelines of what actually sells and how much per square foot it sells for. So those are the things that I always tell new home buyers or new flippers.

As far as design and finishes if you’re flipping there are certain things you won’t do because you’re not personalizing it. You want to figure out what does the market research show as far as what you can put into this flip like what did you pay for it and how much can you invest in it with your budget based off of what the comps are showing. To me the same applies if you are doing your personal home because you want to make sure that you have equity in your personal home. Just because it’s your personal home, you don’t want to over invest in it so you’re upside down that if you had to sell it you can’t get out of it because you put too much money in it and you’ve got to take a loss. So I would say the same thing applies, but you have to be extra careful on a flip because of the fact that you’re flipping it and you’re doing it to make money.

AM: We love how throughout last season and based on the first episode of season 2, that we continue to see the rebuilding in a post Katrina era which makes New Orleans a character in the show as well. What is it about this city that you love so much and why is it important to continue to drive the point home that the effects of this devastating storm are still being felt today?

ST: Considering it was one of the largest natural disasters I think it’s important to constantly let people know that certain areas of the city are still recovering and they haven’t fully recovered.

What I love about the city of New Orleans is the history, the culture, the architecture, the music, and the food. When I look at other areas throughout the United States it’s hard to find the laid back kind of lifestyle that we have here with so much rich culture where you can just walk outside and have music on the street and see an artist painting. When you walk around the streets of New Orleans, you feel like you're in Europe as far a the architecture and the history and the beauty of it. It's different to me than any other area. I love New York and New York has a lot of great areas and history and culture, but it's so big and moving so fast that you know it will wear you down if you’re there for a certain period of time as beautiful as it is. New Orleans is more laid back the way that the people are here. You get a lot for the value of what you are buying here in real estate. I can live anywhere I want in the world and I always choose to keep this as my base.

AM: Looking through your social, we see that you are definitely an Athleisure kind of guy - how do you stay so fit and is there a fitness method that you are a fan of?

ST: I really just do cardio and use body weight for pullups, pushups and sit-ups. A big part of it is just eating healthy. Making sure that I eat healthy and trying to stay away from the sweets that I love. Just trying to stay consistent with that.

AM: When you're in New Orleans, where would we catch you grabbing a cocktail/bite to eat, where are you working out and where can we find you shopping?

ST: I mainly stay within the French Quarter, that’s where I live. When I do go out I have set spots that I go to, I go to Café Amelie, Irene’s, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop which is one of the oldest bars in America, right around the corner from my house. I like to walk down Royal Street and walk into the galleries there, some of the local stores. I like to take evening walks in the French Quarter and listen to music and really just enjoy the street noise and street performers.

AM: How do you give of your time?

ST: I am on the board of Junior Achievement teaching financial literacy to young kids. I also work with the Leukemia Foundation, to raise money. Additionally, I have a group called Voice PAC that gives everyone in the city the opportunity during election time to ask the tough questions and speak out by doing commercials on TV and other media.

AM: If there is anything else that you want to share that we have yet to cover, feel free to include!

ST: TUNE IN! The Deed airs Wednesdays on CNBC at 10pm ET/PT.

PHOTO CREDITS | PG 106 THE DEED - Pictured: (l-r) Sidney Torres -- (Photo by: Tyler Kaufman/CNBC) Wednesday, June 20 on CNBC (10pm ET/PT) | PG 109 THE DEED – Pictured: (l-r) Sidney Torres, Chelsea Dreyer -- (Photo by: Tyler Kaufman/CNBC) Wednesday, July 25 on CNBC (10pm ET/PT) | PG 110 THE DEED – Pictured: (l-r) Preston Tedesco, Sidney Torres -- (Photo by: Tyler Kaufman/CNBC) Wednesday, July 18 on CNBC (10pm ET/PT) | PG 112 THE DEED – Pictured: (l-r) John Brooks, Sidney Torres, Joan Brooks, James Brooks -- (Photo by: Patti Perret/CNBC) Wednesday, June 13 on CNBC (10pm ET/PT)

Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see He Gets Your House in Order with Sidney Torres in mag.

HOW TO DRESS | FOR THE FOURTH OF JULY

Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see How to Dress for the Fourth of July in mag.

#TRIBEGOALS

Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see #TribeGoals in mag.

THE EIGHT BEST

Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Eight Best in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | JUN ISSUE

Our June Issue was just released and we're beyond excited to share our celebrity cover!

This month's celeb cover (front and back) is Pooch Hall of Showtime's Ray Donovan which is currently filming here in NYC! His son Djordan Hall is on the back cover. The shoot took place in Flatiron (Chanson, Humming Puppy and on the set of Ray Donovan). Our June issue is focused on awareness of a number of issues. We talked with Gabriel de Santino about how to read beauty labels when it comes to cruelty-free products. We chatted with Dr. Sherry Ross OBGYN/GYNO about women's health and to touch on a number of topics that you may have always wanted to know but never asked. We're fans of CNBC's The Deed and are excited to have developper, flipper and philanthropist, Sidney Torres about his second season and important tips on how you should approach your next project as well as how he got into the business. Our contributor, Dr. David Greuner, shares how we can get a great workout by taking it outside. We focus on 5 foods that blast fat with Eraldo Maglar as well as some fitness tips. We also talk with Celebrity Hair Stylist and Founder of Ouai, Jen Atkin to find out how she got into the business, how to ensure that our hair looks great this summer and her collabortion with Gurney's Resorts!

We have a number of features that are in each month's issues including The Art of the Snack - focusing on Monkey 47, Bingely Books, Bingely Streaming, Something You Should Know, Athleisure List, Athleisure Beauty and more roundups that focus on 4th of July, 5 must have leggings and more. 

TANNING JUST GOT EASIER

One of the most annoying things about wearing swimwear is that it can really mess up your tan. We all want to avoid embarrassing tanlines, but sometimes it’s not possible to bare all in order to get that all-over tan. So when we heard about CoolTan® , a company that created tan through swimwear and shirts which let you get a natural, all-over tan without having to deal with messy lotions or damaging tanning beds, we were absolutely blown away!

CoolTan shirts and swimwear harness the power of the sun to get you the best overall tan while wearing a cooling and comfortable swimsuit or shirt. The secret is Microsol®, a unique lightweight, high quality, and attractive fabric which allows sunlight through your shirt and swimsuit like a medium level sunscreen. This eliminates the need for messy sprays and lotions and allows you to get an even, overall tan while going about your day- whether you’re at the beach, boating, on vacation, or even just relaxing in your backyard. You’ll get a tan about as fast as you would with a medium SPF sunscreen, but without that sticky residue that we all know about too well.

The best part is that CoolTan makes a variety of tan-through products including: polos, henleys, men’s racers and shorts, women’s one-piece and two-piece suits, and t-shirts and tanks. Plus, Cooltan items are fully machine washable and fast-drying, plus are resistant against chlorine and salt water.

CoolTan tan through shirts and swimwear finally eliminate those dreaded tanlines and allow you to look stylish and keep cool all summer long.

IT'S ABOUT THE RIGHT FIT

PHOTO COURTESY | Upbra

We all know that bra shopping can be an absolute nightmare. Between the confusing sizes, uncomfortable straps or underwires, and difficulty finding bras that give the lift you need, bra shopping can be incredibly frustrating! There’s probably a high chance that you own at one bra that doesn’t fit you right, doesn’t give you realistic-looking cleavage, and doesn’t give you lift, but that you purchased simply because you couldn’t find anything better.

We found a company that is seeking to end the bra shopping struggle. Upbra is a California based bra company seeking to revolutionize the bra industry by creating a bra that provides cleavage for smaller breasts and lift for larger breasts. Upbra is unique in that it gives you the power to control the amount of cleavage and lift you want with its fully adjustable Cleavage Control Straps. For those with smaller cup sizes, Upbra’s patented Active Lift® technology allows you to achieve cleavage that you never thought possible, without the use of excessive padding. The Upbra allows the wearer to look up to two sizes larger, without looking unnatural or fake.

Upbra isn’t just for smaller cup sizes, though. A common struggle for women with larger bra sizes is finding a bra that gives lift and support, and that will stay in place. Upbra does all this and more, thanks to the extra grip support inside the cups which help grip the wearer’s breasts and move them inward and upward when the cleavage-control straps are pulled.

Whether you have a smaller cup size and are looking for natural cleavage without having to go under the knife, or have a larger bust that requires lift you can’t find in other bras, the Upbra is a great option. With 3 distinct bra styles, swimwear, and soon-to-come sports bras and underwire-free styles, the Upbra is 1 bra that does it all, plus puts you in  control over your cleavage and lift.

5 SUMMER TIPS TO HEALTHY GLOWING SKIN

Your skin should be your top priority and Celebrity Makeup Artist, Claire Doyle shares her top 5 Summer tips to healthy glowing skin! Keep in mind that a number of SPF products that we use are actually toxic and dehydrating to skin and lips.

1.  Cool your skin after a day of fun in the sun with a cool shower or bath to take down inflammation, remove salt water and the toxic chemicals that come with most SPF sunscreens.  

2.  An aloe vera based after sun body gel is great for cooling the skin and taking out the sting of over exposured skin. A fresh aloe vera plant also does the trick!

3.  Drink up!  Keep your body hydrated from the inside out with lots of water to offset those poolside cocktails.  I like to flavor my water with fresh fruit and mint leaves in the warmer months.

4. Keep your body hydrated with a great moisturizer and reapply often to sooth skin and prevent peeling.

5.  Don't forget about your lips!  Apply a moisturizing lip balm to keep lips hydrated post fun in the sun.  I love argan oil-based Moroccan Magic. It feels instantly moisturizing and doesn't feel waxy on the lips. Most people don't realize how de-hydrating SPF skincare and lip care can be. Make sure you apply a heavier layer before bedtime for overnight protection and renewal!

SUMMER SOLSTICE

It's FINALLY here - the official day of Summer! Regardless of whether it's sunny in your hood or a bit drizzly, we want to make sure that you toast the next season of the Summer Solstice by making it the perfect day - an outfit fitting for summer, getting a good workout in and grabbing a cocktail with friends after! 

For those in NYC, we suggest the following to kick the summer off right!

HUMMING PUPPY - YOGA

THE HARROW NY

OBTAINING PHYSICAL PERFECTION: FACT OR FICTION?

Did you know that even celebrities aren’t completely happy with their appearance? That even fitness models have flaws? Most of us can only dream of having perfectly sculpted abs or a flat stomach, toned thighs, a high and tight rear-end, and the physical perfection we see in fitness models – those things they’ve worked on for countless hours: eating right, knowing when to carb or not to carb, training in the perfect ratios, doing thousands of reps, or even trying some strange yoga moves.

It isn’t impossible. These gods and goddesses haven’t all been airbrushed or photo-shopped, but you might be surprised at the commitment and dedication that physical perfection takes.

What it Really Takes to Be a Fitness Model

Let’s face it a 3-times a week, half-hour workout isn’t going to cut it when you’re striving for near-physical perfection like that of a fitness model, so what do they really do to get that lust-worthy body?

Here’s a little reality check so you know what it can take to be that drop-dead gorgeous:

●      Fitness models work their butts off. We’re talking 6-days-a-week workouts, often twice a day for at least an hour or more. They usually even do a “resting” workout on their days off like yoga or a long walk. This is a full-time gig for people who are dedicated to looking their physical-best.

●      Fitness models do strength training. You won’t just find them doing endless hours on a treadmill or a few Zumba classes. Lean muscle is in vogue. You don’t look fit if you’re just skinny. Adding on a few pounds of muscle may even be preferred over just dropping weight on a scale for many in the fitness industry.

●      Fitness models tend to have a very strict eating regime. They don’t necessarily count every calorie, but you can bet that they are low-carb or ketogenic in their food choices, and in many cases, they cut all gluten, refined sugar, refined carbs, alcohol, caffeine, meat, dairy, soy, or any other food that isn’t going to help them look and feel amazing.

●      Fitness models may use cosmetic surgery. Liposuction is used not just by people who would consider themselves “ordinary” in their fitness goals, but also by people who work hard to look amazing. Sometimes stubborn fat stores can make even the hardest workouts seem futile. Vaser liposuction recovery is much faster, and since it helps to sculpt the body, not just remove fat, it is a viable option for even professional athletes and fitness models.

●      Fitness models have to be smart. Sometimes a model will need to build muscle before she can lose weight or all the hard-earned abs she’s carved will melt away with the fat she’s burning. She might do heavy weight lifting for weeks, and finally do a few cardio sessions at the end of her training cycle. If you want to be physically perfect, you can’t just be hard-working you need to be smart. Knowing what supplements to take, when to lift, when to rest, or what muscles to work is a big part of the equation.

With dedication, enthusiasm and intelligence, physical perfection is attainable, but you’re not going to get it eating donuts and sipping on Red Bull.

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ABOVE IT ALL

Each season, we look at must have style that we suggest you should include in your wardrobe. We love luxury leather goods by Alexandra Clancy known for clutches, wrist straps, satchels, totes and more. We also suggest that Romply is the perfect romper to add to your closet as it goes from day to night.

We loved shooting at 15 Hubert St (we had earmarked this apartment since we went to their launch party) in Tribeca which is a stunning apatment that has a phenomenal terrace. We sat down with Louise Phillips Forbes of Halstead to find out more about this unit!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We enjoyed attending the launch party for this unit as there are so many great aspects to this apartment from its layout to the terrace - what can you tell us about this Tribeca property?

LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: It’s the quintessential Tribeca duplex loft with 2-bedrooms, 3.5-baths and 2,830 square feet of indoor living space, and an impressive 630 square foot landscaped terrace with stunning open views facing east and south, including a view of One World Trade Center. Interiors of this former warehouse, ingeniously designed by CetraRuddy Architecture, retain the authenticity and openness of the original space, with wide rooms, truly high ceilings, stretches of exposed brick, and oversized windows. The fixtures and materials artfully echo the historic aesthetic of the building. The expansive living/dining room with open kitchen features, high-end stainless steel appliances, marble counters, a wine fridge, and a large island. The grand master suite contains two walk-in closets and an en-suite marble spa bathroom with a walk-in glass shower, deep soaking tub, and custom double-sink vanity. Located on the upper floor, the media room or den is a highlight of the home,  with access to the stunning terrace. Beautiful wide-plank solid oak flooring, central A/C, full-size W/D, and ample closet space throughout complete this luxury residence.

AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents (common areas, services, etc.)?

LFP: Nestled on a quiet cobblestone street and with just twelve residences, this boutique building affords residents privacy. The building's lobby is appointed with concrete paneled walls and wood paneled ceilings, and is attended by a part-time doorman, as well as equipped with a state-of-the-art package reception and retrieval system. 15 Hubert boasts a beautifully designed and landscaped communal rooftop lounge offering scenic views of the Hudson River as well as One World Trade Center.

AM: We love the interior design for this unit - tell us more about it as well as the stunning painting that is in the apartment!

LFP: The beautiful interior design of this model residence was done by Cheryl Eisen and her creative team at Interior Marketing Group (IMG). They really did an outstanding job bringing this remarkable home to life with their sophisticated and elegant furnishings and accessories. I’m also thrilled that my dear friend, notable artist King Saladeen, loaned us one of his incredible paintings. Titled, “Fight for Equality”, it’s prominently featured and has an asking price of $30,000.

AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building (Wholefoods, workout studios, eateries, etc.) and what neighborhood is this considered?
 
LFP: Tribeca is one the most coveted areas of the city to live in and this particular building is conveniently located to just about everything, including the West Side Highway, parks and bike paths, multiple fitness clubs, SoulCycle, boutique shops, fine dining and charming cafes, Whole Foods, specialty wine shops, and nightlife. The area is not only family-friendly, it’s also close to Soho, the Financial District, and Battery Park City.

AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information?

LFP: It would be very easy to call this unique apartment home given the grandeur of the rooms, designer details throughout, and large terrace! To schedule an appointment to see Penthouse-C, your readers can simply contact me directly and I will be happy to give them a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329.

AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?

LFP: Visit my website at http://louisephillipsforbes.com/ and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from downtown to uptown. The available homes range from this loft in Tribeca to a 4-bedroom corner penthouse on Park Avenue with a large wrap-around terrace on the Upper East Side.

Read more from the May Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Above it All in mag.

SET YOUR DVR | HOLMES + HOLMES 9PM EST/PST ON JULY 10TH

Set your DVR for Holmes + Holmes on DIY Network which premieres on Tuesday, July 10, at 9pm EST/PST. During the 12 episodes of the upcoming season, you watch Mike Holmes Sr. (professional contractor) and his son Mike Holmes Jr. (home renovation expert) "make it right" as they buy and transform three tiered properties into dream homes! Along the way, we also see wedding planning with Mike Jr. to his fiancée Lisa throughout the season.

“I’ve worked for my dad for well over a decade and now we’re teaming up and going into business together,” said Mike Jr. “This paired with planning my wedding is a new—and challenging—experience for me.”

Of course in addition to fixing homes, anticipation of an upcoming wedding - there is also the focus of the hardships that can take place when working with family. As they are officially business partners in a new venture, the first episode shows Mike Jr. being surprised to learn his dad had already purchased the house that will be their first project. After the shaky start, the duo agrees to work on the ground rules of their new partnership so they can get along and turn a profit.

“I’ve been in construction more than 35 years, and I’ve seen it all and fixed it all,” said Mike. “The best part is I’ve been able to teach my son everything I know along the way. And now getting to be business partners with him is something I always hoped would be in the cards for us.”

For exclusive photos and videos throughout the season, you can stay in the know by visiting DIYNetwork.com/Holmes-and-Holmes and interact on social media using #HolmesAndHolmes.

SET YOUR DVR | UNAPOLOGETIC WITH AISHA TYLER MONDAYS 10PM EST/PST

We're OBSESSED with AMC’s "Dietland" (Mondays at 9pm EST/PST) which takes on a number of industries from fashion, publishing, the state of women and how we are portrayed and more with a series of amazing characters and actresses! After this show airs, it is followed by its companion talk show, “Unapologetic with Aisha Tyler” airs every Monday at 10pm EST/PST, immediately following this show. Aisha Tyler is typically joined by a “Dietland” series star as well as two additional panelists. Tonight the show's star Erin Darke, American civil rights activist, DeRay McKesson and comedian and actress, Cameron Esposito came to unpack this week’s news headlines and chatted about the politics of political movements, the “bangability” theory and Miss America’s modernization. If you have yet to watch either show, we suggest that you get on it and of course, set your DVR's accordingly!

5 WAYS TO KEEP FIT WHILE HAVING FUN

Are you finding it stressful to work out? Does it feel like work? Although you know it is paramount that you exercise to burn calories, lose weight, and keep fit, mustering the motivation to do so is sometimes a problem. Fit doesn’t have to be painful. Here are 5 fun ways to stay in shape without even realizing it.

Get on the Dance Floor

If you are not the sporty type – then dancing can be a great alternative if you want to get fit – And there are different dance types. You'll find at least one that appeals to you: salsa, square dancing, ballroom, African, Country, Western, and folk dancing. Not having a partner holding you back? Try hula, clogging, belly or tap dancing.

A recent and more strenuous physical fitness craze is Capoeira which adds some martial arts to dancing. You dance to music turning your back head and back using moves that may be interpreted as kickboxing or dancing.

Go on a Treasure Hunt

Take a group of friends or even your family on a geocaching adventure. Geocaching will involve the use of GPS to find a hidden logbook and cache of trinkets. While it sounds simple, cachers keep adding new twists. For instance, one has to carry a “hitchhiker” from one cache to the next. The process of getting to a cache may be like a leisurely zip-line glide or even call for expertise as is the case with rock-climbing. The first step is simply acquiring a GPS device. The information regarding cache locations and geocaching is on geocaching websites.  

Join a Sport You Love

Maybe you have a sport that you always enjoyed as a child or have always wanted to try – such as netball. Find a local team and join it. Alternatively, you can mobilize friends and family members and organize regular games. Having teammates waiting on you will help you muster the motivation you need to get out of your comfort zone and be consistent.  The social aspects of being a member of a team will make it feel like less of an exercise.

Skating

Skating is a fun-filled outdoor activity that will help you tone your body especially the lower part. It is an excellent alternative to jogging as it's easier on the joints. Both inline and ice skating are good in burning calories. A 30-minute glide around the neighborhood can help you burn about 250 calories. If you have no clue on how to skate, you can find programs within your reach that cater for beginners of all ages.

Prepare for an Active Vacation

Have you ever considered spending your time at a fantasy sports camp, or going on a country bike tour? Such activities can satisfy your craving for fun while helping you stay in shape. But the extent of injuries sustained during such events may inform your decision - whether to take the next trip or not. To limit muscle injury and soreness, make sure to train before embarking on your trip – the upcoming vacation will be your source of inspiration. Also, check with Medicine Direct for some medication that you can carry along when the time comes. 

You can still identify other activities that you find enjoyable and take the first step – move.

WHERE WILL LEBRON JAMES PLAY IN 2018-2019?

Now that the NBA Finals are over, the NBA free agency period is here. To some, it is the most exciting part of the season. And that excitement is even more palpable now that LeBron James has the opportunity to opt out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers. So where will James end up when next season tips off? And which team will give him the best chance to add to his championship count?

Los Angeles Lakers

It seems clear at this point that LeBron James will be leaving the Cavaliers. Even Cavs coach Tyronn Lue seems resigned to that fact. But are the Los Angeles Lakers the answer as to where James will end up next season? Given the team's ample resources, it is entirely possible. But there are definitely some obstacles to overcome if James is going to play for the purple and gold.

If James is going to put on the Lakers' NBA city jersey next year, the Lakers will have to assure him that they will bring in another talented player to join him. This is because the Lakers currently are full of young players but don't have a star that would bring James any closer to a title than the Cavaliers would. But with the Lakers having tons of salary cap space, they may be able to land another star like Paul George while they haul in the player who had 34 points per game in last year's NBA Finals.

Los Angeles also needs to get their Lavar Ball situation under control. Ball is convinced that LeBron is going to be a Laker, but James may not like all of the instability that Ball brings to the table. And though the Lakers faithful would sing his praises better than those responsible for the LeBron James Cisqo parody, that wouldn't mean much if the team wasn't any better than his hometown Cavaliers.

Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers are one of the best young teams in the league. They had a breakout season last year thanks to the inspired play of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. As a result, the Sixers are at +400 odds to win the NBA Finals as of June 14, 2018 at Betway. And, one would imagine that adding LeBron James would improve those odds in a big way.

Thanks to the distribution abilities of Simmons, LeBron wouldn't have to handle the ball nearly as much as he did in Cleveland. And while Ben Simmons has recently had some relationship drama with Kendall Jenner, he keeps things completely harmonious for his teammates on the court. Imagining him passing to a cutting LeBron James is tantalizing, and watching that duo with Embiid alongside them would be amazing as well.

Of course, the Sixers' instability with their general manager position could be a concern for the moment after the Bryan Colangelo Twitter scandal. Now that he is no longer with the team, the possibility for LeBron to join up with Philly could be just what the doctor ordered to complete the process.

Source: Pixabay

Houston Rockets

LeBron James was accused of quitting on the Cavaliers during the NBA Finals when the Warriors won all four games of that series. To combat that narrative, James would be well served to join the Rockets. Teaming up with Chris Paul would make sure that he never took a play-off again. This is thanks to Paul's natural leadership ability that always makes him someone that players want on their team.

Also, the addition of James Harden to LeBron's list of teammates would be a huge bonus for James. Harden is another player who can play on the ball, and lighten James' offensive burden. That will give him more energy to be a two-way player, something he struggled with at times during the 2017-2018 season.

The only concern with joining the Rockets would be how bad a fit James is with the rest of the team's offense. Houston shoots more threes than anyone in the league, even when they are missing like they did when they missed 27 straight threes in the seventh game of the Western Conference Finals against the Warriors. But if anyone can figure out how to make it work, it is LeBron James.