THE 9 LIST WITH TRINITY FATU

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and The 9 List with Trinity Fatu in mag.

S1. E2. | BUNGALOW SK WITH STEFAN WEITZ

On today's episode of Bungalow SK, we talk about the importance of gut health and the journey that Stefan Weitz took in his personal health when diagnosed with MS in order to create recently launched Jetson, probiotic pills that are distributed seasonally via subscription. We talk about his days at Microsoft, being involved in the creation of Bing and how gut health is linked to so many things that take place in your body. 

Bungalow SK is a member of the multimedia podcast network, Athleisure Studio, part of Athleisure Media and Athleisure Mag. You can see our show notes at AthleisureStudio.com/Bungalow-SK and follow us on Instagram at @Bungalow.SK to find out who we’re talking with as well as what are guests are up to. Bungalow SK is hosted and Executive Produced by Kimmie Smith and Executive Produced by Paul Farkas. The music for Bungalow SK is Renaissance, performed by FOREVERT.

PROPEL CO:LABS 2019

Astute readers know that this time last year, Propel Co:Labs Fitness Festival had one of its stops here in NYC along with LA and Chicago. We had a great time working out beside Gunnar Peterson, Harley Pasternak, Akin's Army and more. We talked with them about a number of fitness tips, focuses and more. This month, the event took place in LA with the same energy with a number of new and old friends. We're sharing a few conversations with Gunnar Peterson, Harley Pasternak, Casey Ho, Simone de la Rue and Angela Manuel-Davis.

We kicked off with Gunnar Peterson.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What tips do you have for those just beginning their fitness journey?

GUNNAR PETERSON: Enjoy the process. Obviously short- and long-term goals are great, but if you can find a way to enjoy what you’re doing in the moment, you’re going to be so much better off throughout the whole thing – not to mention, your goals will be there sooner than you know.

AM: What advice would you have for those struggling to find motivation?

GP: The motivation comes from inside. I’m not a big believer that the trainer motivates – I don’t know what I can say to you if you’ve decided you’re not doing something. And I also don’t think that’s incumbent upon the trainer. People decide for themselves. They have their own reasons and get after it because they’ve decided to make that change. It can be family, job, tired of feeling low energy – whatever it is, just draw on that from the inside and don’t deny it.

AM: What is the Propel Co:Labs Fitness Festival all about?

GP: To me, the Propel Co:Labs Fitness Festival is all about bringing a relatively disjointed fitness community together and on even ground. Even when you’re here, you’ll notice people who are yoga people, weight people, and people who are way more cardio-intensive – and there’s such a great comradery and feeling here. This is what fitness should be. Propel makes this what fitness should be about – community. Here, people are sharing information and also being receptive to other fitness professionals, which is why it’s such a great event.

AM: Tell us about the class you’ll be leading with Luke Milton?

GP: I can’t tell you – it’s totally top secret. Actually, Luke and I have a similar philosophy in terms of peripheral action and planes of motion. The environment created in the workout is all because of how the movements are sequenced. So, when we developed this, it was so fun and totally logical. For us, the goal is up-down-up-down, switching it up the whole time, upper-body, lower-body, core. And moving people in that way, very specifically and thought out, helps them get the most out of the workout.

AM: Why are electrolytes important?

GP: We lose electrolytes when we sweat, and with Propel, you replenish them. You can workout harder and longer. Propel is helping everyone here do more – their bodies are ready to go sooner and to keep pushing – and that’s really what it’s all about.

One of the exciting things about attending a festival of this nature is that you're able to try out a number of methods that allow you to enhance what you already do. You also have the opportunity to hear about the methods and the reason why these celebrity fitness trainers do them. Last year, we enjoyed connecting with Harley Pasternak and once again, he didn't disappoint.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about the class you’ll be leading at the Propel Co:Labs fitness festival.

HARLEY PASTERNAK: We are doing a really exciting class today that will require no equipment whatsoever – just absolutely tons of energy and a high pain threshold. We will be focusing on the lower body, and the class is called ‘Butt my legs hurt’ – get it? All kinds of iso-lateral (one side at a time) lower body movements. Variations of lunges from regular lunges, skater lunges, reverse lunges, lateral lunges and jump lunges. Then during the rest in between, we’ll be doing hip thrusts and pike planks. So a little bit abs, a little bit of glutes as your rest period, which is kind of insane. Let’s just say, I will be everyone’s pain in the butt today.

AM: Are lunges enough for a lower body workout?

HP: If you were to have one lower body workout, lunges would be one of my favorites. But, it does not train your upper body. It will elevate your heart rate, so I like variations, and with the addition of the hip thrust we’re getting the posterior chain.

AM: What would you add to balance out the upper body?

HP: I really focus on the posterior chain, so a back row of some kind with a TRX or dumbbell – something for your rhomboids. I’d put in a triceps movement, maybe a laying dumbbell triceps extension with a hip thrust together – I call those a Harley. It’s butt and back with your arms at the same time. Those moves, combined with the lunge variations, as well as a stiff leg deadlift for your hamstrings and lower back.

AM: With your busy schedule, how do you manage to fit workouts into your schedule?

GP: It's the other way around. I build my schedule around my workouts - they're a priority to me. It’s that old analogy of – if you fill a fish tank full of rocks, and it looks full, there’s still room for small rocks, gravel, sand, and water. But if you do it in any other order, it won't work. So you have to decide in your life, what are those big rocks? What are the small rocks, the gravel, the sand, and what’s the water? And for me, staying in shape and exercising is definitely one of the larger of this, and not something to try and jam in at the end of the day.

AM: What’s the best fitness advice you’ve ever received?

HP: Make the process the goal. It’s not about the number on the scale or having a certain aesthetic. You have indirect control over those, but not direct. So focus on the things you have control over. How many steps did you take today? Did you workout today? How did you eat today? Those things you can control. So focusing on the process, not the end goal.

Also, understand that we only have one set of joints. As I get older, focus on what do you need to do, not what you can do. What’s the least you need to do to get the most results.

AM: What’s your favorite workout song at the moment?

HP: There’s something about the cadence of ‘Love Lock Down’ from Kanye’s 808 Heartbeats. Cause that’s how I teach people to do resistance training – that cadence is timeless.

AM: Why is being strong important beyond appearance?

HP: There’s a confidence that spills into every other aspect of your life when you feel strong. That confidence just oozes everywhere. You’re staying functional in everyday tasks and less likely to get hurt.

AM: Tell us what its like training your celebrity clientele?

HP: I’m very lucky, cause having clients who make a living off how they look instills a motivation that is unrivaled by any other population. They’re as motivated as can be. They’re a minute early and putting in everything they can, cause they know their identity and their profession is very much tied to looking great.

AM: What is the biggest health and or wellness myth you’d like to bust?

HP: Celery juice! Go away! It’s not harmful and it won’t hurt you, but it’s totally pointless and does nothing positive for you. Juicing in itself is pretty pointless, but juicing one of the least nutritionally dense vegetables that exists in nature today, and throwing out the fiber to drink it with water and the dye that comes in the vegetable, and people thinking it’s going to fix their autoimmune diseases and cancer and weight management – it’s just really pointless.

As is the case of our previous celebrity fitness trainers, Simone de la Rue is someone that we have enjoyed doing her method. She has also been in Revenge Body with Khloe Kardashian on E! As a new mom, we looked forward to finding out how she prioritizes what's important as well as her fitness.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What are you doing here at Propel Co:Labs today?

SIMONE DE LA RUE: I am here to share my love of fitness and encourage people to hydrate with Propel! Hydration and your water intake is a huge assistance in weight loss, so drink, drink, drink!

I am here at Propel Co:Labs to share my brand which is Body By Simone, which is all about dance-based fitness. I taught class this morning in the festival hanger with my team to an amazing crowd of people that came out to sweat. [Propel Co: Labs] is really building a community in an inclusive ego free environment where we all come together to sweat.

AM: As a new mom how do you find time to keep fitness a priority in your life?

SDLR: It’s all about juggling. The most important thing is that you have to have a schedule, which is difficult with a child. Meal prep is a massive thing. If you prepare all your food and then put it in the freezer, that’s setting you up for the week where you’ll make great decisions and won’t order takeout. Secondly, as a new mum, finding time exercise. You don’t have to do an hour straight—you can choose to do 10 minutes in the morning or half an hour in the morning and possible another 30 minutes at night, but it's just finding that time for you that is so important.

AM: What’s the best fitness advice you’ve ever received?

SDLR: Set realistic goals. When you say to yourself I’m going to work out for two hours today and completely change your diet you set yourself up for failure because that's unrealistic. Set achievable goals and on day one just try and stay in the room, or gym, or class. And then the next day improve on that—add another 10 or 20 minutes to your workout or eliminate one item from your diet, whether that be sugar, caffeine alcohol. If you go cold turkey on day one, it’s likely you’re going to binge or give up.

AM: What is the biggest health and or wellness myth you’d like to bust?

SDLR: Just get up and do something. Just get your butt off the couch. There’s not one workout that’s going to give you your dream body so the most important thing is to find something that you connect with and will motivate you. So, the myth is that there is one workout that is the best for you.

AM: What keeps you motivated?

SDLR: My business has always kept me motivated because I have so many staff that I have to take care of. My clients also motivate me! They usually come in with a different goal whether that’s a Grammy appearance or Oscar red-carpet or film—which is exciting. Now, my biggest motivation is my son! I want to get up and be the best version of myself for him, I want to be a great role model for him so that he can see me in the best light.

We have interviewed Casey Ho previously as we love her 30 day challenges, fun fitness YouTube videos and her perky attitude as the founder of Popilates. With her first time joining this fitness festival, we wanted to find out about what her session involved, her favorite movements during her workout and how she stays motivated.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about the class you’ll be leading at the Propel Co:Labs fitness festival.

CASEY HO: It’s called Abs of Envy by PIIT 28. So obviously it’s going to be an abs focused class because I’m a Pilates instructor—it’s going to be core crazy! PIIT stands for Pilates intense interval training, it’s a 30-minute class which has cardio intervals with the toning aspects of Pilates with abs—so basically prepare to die!

AM: Why did you decide to partner with Propel Co:Labs Fitness Festival?

CH: I love that Propel is putting on a live fitness event to bring people together and also bringing together the best fitness studios in LA because I’m a big class pass user so I’ve been to a lot of these studios, so it’s really cool see all these amazing trainers get together in this environment. I love that Propel is doing this because yes [teaching classes] online is a big deal, but [teaching] in person is an even bigger deal because real in-person relationships are being built.

AM: With your busy schedule, how do you manage to fit workouts into your schedule?

CH: I always workout in the morning. 7:15 is my time and I don’t miss is unless I’m feeling tired or traveling. I set aside time in my schedule like a set anything, I make it a date in my calendar so I don’t miss it.

AM: What keeps you motivated?

CH: What keeps me motivated is keeping this happiness level inside me—just feeling whole and healthy. There have been points where I have not been happy with myself and it’s taken a lot to get to this stage so that keeps me motivated staying balanced and harmonious. Also, my husband and my dog!

AM: Favorite workout/movement at the moment?

CH: Of the moment, I’m super into deep stretching and I’m not talking about yoga! I mean I’m in a split and someone is pushing on me to the point that you’re almost crying—but after your splits are even lower! I’m taking this new class as SM Stretching in Beverly Hills and its run by a rhyme gymnast and she’s kind of hard on you and I love it!

AM: What’s the best fitness advice you’ve ever received?

CH: Find the joy in working out. Don’t keep doing the thing that feels like a chore. For a while I felt like I had to do the hardest thing and feel like I was dying every time I finished a class or I wasn’t pushing myself enough, but that wasn’t true. It’s the [workout] you can stick to that will make you happy.

AM: Why is being strong important beyond appearance?

CH: It’s important to be strong so you don’t break later, so you can live longer, so you’re able to carry 17 grocery bags from your car to the house in one trip! Obviously, strength is what matters, vanity is just a side effect

AM: What is the biggest health and or wellness myth you’d like to bust?

CH: No one diet or workout program is going to work for everyone. Everyone needs to realize that your fitness journey is entirely individual in your self-discovery.

AM: What is your mantra you like to live by?

CH: Give yourself the 100% chance to succeed because you’ll never know if you don’t. Whether you give your 100 and you fail or you give yourself 100 and you don’t fail—you’ve got to go 100 every time or you’ll live a life of regret.

A fitness festival of this nature is all about taking in the positivity, workouts that are offered and sampling what makes the most sense for you. We took a few moments to chat with Angela Manuel-Davis to find out how she was energized by the participation, her approach to working out and more.

ATHLEISURE MAG: So what are you doing a Propel Co:Labs today?

ANGELA MANUEL-DAVIS: So today at Propel Co:Labs I am leading a class on AMDIO method, which is Angela Manuel-Davis changed from the inside out. So, I’m going to be pushing and challenging everyone that shows up to close the gap between where they are and where they dream to be in their life!

AM: What was it like on the Co:labs festival stage?

AMD: It was incredible being on the Co:Labs festival stage! People really came open and ready to receive—the energy was high and I really feel like every single person that walked in walked out different.

AM: How do you fit time in your busy schedule?

AMD: You have to make it a priority. Life can take over and there’s always going to be a number of things that seem more important but if you do not make it a priority to take care of yourself you won't be able to take care of anything else or anyone else. So, it's about making yourself a priority and understanding that the stronger you are, the stronger you are for others.

AM: What keeps you motivated?

AMD: Living a purpose driven life keeps me motivated. Every single day I wake up and I’m really interested in operating in my gifts and talents that’ve been given to me personally and encouraging others to do the same—that’s my purpose in life. So, living a purpose driven life for sure.

AM: What’s the best fitness advice you’ve ever received?

AMD: Best fitness advice I’ve ever received is that the recovery time is just as valuable as the time I put in the workout. Sometimes we get so caught up in the workout and we go super hard and we don’t remember that the recovery is when the benefits of the workout find their rightful places.

AM: What is the biggest health and or wellness myth you’d like to bust?

AMD: Spinning doesn’t give you big legs.

PHOTOS COURTESY | Jessica Nash for Propel Co:Labs Fitness Festival

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Propel Co:LABS 2019 in mag.

THE ART OF THE SNACK | EATALY

SHOPPING THE MARKETS OF ITALY OR GRABBING A MEAL?

When it comes to culinary destinations, Eataly is one that allows you to purchase your favorite Italian treats, meats and wines in their market. It also has a number of restaurants whether you're popping in for a quick bite, doing takeout or simply want to sit down to a decadent meal. We sat down with Dino Borri, Eataly's USA's VP of Global Partnerships to get the rundown on their Flatiron property, charcuterie boards and summer wines.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background and how you came to Eataly?

DINO BORRI: I currently serve as Eataly USA’s VP of Global Partnerships. I was born and raised in Bra, a small town in Piemonte, Italy, and the home of the Slow Food movement and the world’s first University of Gastronomic Sciences. I got my start in the food industry in 2000, when Slow Food hired me to organize and coordinate all of our gastronomic events. In 2008, I started collaborating with Eataly Torino, where I soon became the person in charge of opening new Eataly stores all around the world. I lived in Japan for one year, where I curated the opening of all the Eataly locations in Japan. In 2010, I moved to America to launch the first US location in New York City’s Flatiron District. Living and breathing high-quality food and Mediterranean lifestyle, I am now concentrating on developing key partnerships and relationships with like-minded Italian brands abroad for Eataly.

AM: What is the purpose behind Eataly and how does this destination allow shoppers and guests to connect with the various regions of Eataly?

DB: Focused on providing high-quality, sustainable products for all, Eataly is the largest Italian retail and dining experience in the world, transforming the way consumers experience food, beverage and, culture. At Eataly, guests have the unique opportunity to experience Italian culture through markets, counters, cafés, restaurants, and educational offerings that explore the best food and beverage options Italy’s 20 regions and the world has to offer. Since Oscar Farinetti first opened Eataly Torino Italy in 2007, his philosophy – to provide high-quality food, celebrate biodiversity, and create a place to eat, shop, and learn – has spread to 39 stores across the world, including our US flagship NYC Flatiron (2010), Chicago (2013), NYC Downtown (2016), Boston (2016), L.A. (2017), Vegas (2018), Toronto (opening in 2019), and Dallas (opening in 2020).

AM: Why is Eataly a great destination for those that are popping in to enjoy a number of your restaurants or to shop its market?

DB: Eataly offers traditional and authentic Italian food in a vibrant ambiance. At the store, customers can eat what they shop and shop what they eat. One of the best aspects of Eataly is that all of our restaurants, counters, products, and experts, have a story to tell. Each time you come to Eataly, there is something new to explore and learn, no matter whether you’re sitting down to a relaxed meal or simply buying your evening groceries.

AM: Does Eataly have a different vibe or offering depending on which location you go to?

DB: Yes. Each Eataly is customized to its local market and unique from any other store. The stores all have different restaurants, layouts, products, and counters. In addition, we work with local producers in each city in addition to our Italian producers.

AM: With the summer being upon us, what are 3 items that you would suggest we should incorporate into our Charcuterie boards?

DB: Culatello di Zibello DOP - Culatello is one of the most prized salumi in Italy: mentions of this delicacy date back to the 15th century. Culatello is produced in the flatlands located north of Parma, near the Po River, and Eataly is the first to be able to sell this delicacy with DOP status imported from Italy.

Quattro Portoni Casatica Cheese - This is a semi-seasoned cheese with a flowering crust, and pearly white, soft center. Made with buffalo milk, the flavor is delicate and creamy with a velvety texture.

Lingue Di Suocera – light, crispy, and made from all-natural ingredients, these long flatbreads – in fact, their name translates to “tongues” thanks to their shape – are a flavorful vehicle for the salumi and cheeses on your antipasto board.

Il Mongetto Cheese Condiment Set - Sweet additions like the fig, pear, or quince jam in this condiment set are a perfect compliment to soft cheeses and savory cured meats. This set by Il Mongetto is made with top quality fruits and artisanal production methods in Piemonte.

AM: In terms of wines and sweet treats, what are 3 items that we should keep in mind?

DB: Spritz Bianco – Made with Sangiovese Bianco, St. Germaine, Soda Water, FarmOne Basil. The Spritz Bianco is a refreshing alternative to summer’s most popular cocktail. This Spritz is offered at SERRA FIORITA by Birreria within Eataly NYC Flatiron, our seasonal restaurant on the roof that now reflects the Italian countryside in the summertime.

Riesling Borgogno - Langhe DOC Riesling – Made from young Riesling vines in the Langhe valley by one of the oldest winemakers in Piemonte, the crisp freshness and pleasant acidity of this white make it a versatile wine that pairs well with summer dishes like fish and vegetables.

Mandarinata - Made by Ligurian producer Niasca Portofino, Mandarinata is a pleasantly sweet and refreshing soda made from concentrated juice of mandarins from the Tigullio Gulf. Excellent on its own, this soda also pairs perfectly in a cocktail for a classic Italian aperitivo.

*Please note that all of these products listed can either be found in one of Eataly’s stores or online.

PHOTOS COURTESY | EATALY

IG @EatalyFlatiron

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Art of the Snack in mag.

THE 9 LIST

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The 9 List in mag.

ROCK THIS LOOK WHEN YOU'RE HOME WITH FRIENDS OVER

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Rock This Look When You’re Home With Friends Over in mag.

IN OUR BAG | WHEN YOU TAKE ON THE DAY

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see In Our Bag When You Take On the Day in mag.

S1. E4 | ATHLEISURE KITCHEN WITH MICHELIN STARRED CHEF, GEORGE MENDES

On today's episode of Athleisure Kitchen, we headed to the offices of Chefs Club in Soho to sit down and talk with Michelin starred chef and restaurateur, George Mendes, who was also the cover for Athleisure Mag for the June Issue about Aldea located in Flatiron as well as his pop up concept AMAR which is in residency at Chefs Club Counter through the end of August. We talk about the importance of Portuguese cuisine in his food, his passion for food and a number of his partnerships that allow our palettes to know more about Portuguese food.

You can stay in the loop on who future guests are by visiting us at AthleisureStudio.com/AthleisureKitchen and on Instagram at @AthleisureKitchen and @AthleisureStudio. Athleisure Kitchen is hosted by Kimmie Smith and is Executive Produced by Paul Farkas and Kimmie Smith. It is mixed by the team at Athleisure Studio. Our music is "This Boy" performed by Ilya Truhanov.

HOW TO DRESS TO BEAT THE HEAT IN SUMMER

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see How to Dress To Beat the Heat in Summer in mag.

S1. E1. | BUNGALOW SK WITH BRAD GORESKI

On today's episode of Bungalow SK, we talk with Brad Goreski. We first met him on BRAVO's The Rachel Zoe Project as he stepped into the world of styling and being her assistant, he continued on with the network's It's A Brad Brad World and appearing on a number of shows including being a co-host on E! Fashion Police for a number of seasons and during Awards Season on E! Live From the Red Carpet where he gives the inside scoop on who he dressed, who is wearing what and making predictions on what designers we will see on the red carpets. His career has included being a Creative Director at Kate Spade and dressing a number of coveted celebs including Emily Ratajkowski, Demi Moore, Rashida Jones and Jessica Alba to name a few. He's known for rocking dapper style and never being afraid of color and patterns for his clients or himself.

With summer well on its way, we took some time to talk about how he got into the industry, how he is inspired to dress his clients, the importance of sunglasses - summer's accessory and MET Gala looks that he loved this year.

Bungalow SK is a member of the multimedia podcast network, Athleisure Studio, part of Athleisure Media and Athleisure Mag. You can see our show notes at AthleisureStudio.com/Bungalow-SK and follow us on Instagram at @Bungalow.SK to find out who we’re talking with as well as what are guests are up to. Bungalow SK is hosted and Executive Produced by Kimmie Smith. The music for Bungalow SK is Renaissance, performed by FOREVERT.

THE PICK ME UP

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Pick Me Up in mag.

S1. E12. | #TRIBEGOALS WITH DENISE AUSTIN

On today's episode of #TRIBEGOALS I sit down with Fitness Icon Denise Austin! We talk about how she came into the fitness industry, her success with her VHS, DVD and daily TV Show on ESPN - Get Fit with Denise Austin. We talk about her impact in the fitness industry and serving 2 terms of the President's Council of Phyiscal Fitness and Sports and working alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. We also talk about her fitness focuses as well as her work with her daughter, Katie Austin! 

#TRIBEGOALS is hosted by Kimmie Smith and is Executive Produced by Paul Farkas and Kimmie Smith. Our theme music Rough and Deep is performed by JGRLNG. 

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

TIPS FOR SHOPAHOLICS WISHING TO SPEND AND SAVE SIMULTANEOUSLY

Tips for Shopaholics Wishing to Spend and Save Simultaneously

The average American spends around $1,803 per year on clothing – which is probably way beneath what the typical fashionista wishes to dedicate to their wardrobe. Considering that a pair of Yeezys can set you back around $350 and Prada’s small nylon bag starts at $280 in price, it can be easy to see how your yearly spend can extend to thousands on clothing alone. The good news for those who enjoy the ‘kick’ of bringing home a new pair of shoes, luxury skincare products, or jewelry, is that you can indeed save while giving yourself monthly treats. Follow these tips and ensure that your savings account grows even more quickly than your wardrobe.

Quality over Quantity

To be a smart shopper, prize quality over quantity and buy designer items during key times of the year – such as sale season or special sale days. There is little point in buying five pairs of shoes for an upcoming vacation if they are likely to cause pain, break apart, or fail to provide the right ‘grip’ for the activities you have signed up for. Quality can be tested by checking out reviews and vlogs on designer products you are interested in. Don’t be tempted to buy items on sale that don’t suit your intended purpose. For instance, a running shoe may be on sale but if you are more into trekking, it is best to opt for a well priced mountain shoe, even if the discount on the product is lower.

Opting for the Right Payment Method

When choosing payment methods, ease and interest are the prime factors to look out for. Comparison sites will show you how much you can save by opting for different types of credit card. Shop with cards that offer you very low or no interest, and those that offer reward payments and high percentages back for any interest charged. You can save up to $4,000 just by choosing the right card, but you will need to be making more than a specified income to be eligible for one of these. If you have maxed your credit card out before, then cash payments or debit only cards may be the ideal choice for anything other than necessities.

Tech Tips for Savers

One of the biggest mistakes made by over-spenders is a simple lack of awareness of how much they are spending. A Tshirt here, a beauty product there, a gourmet cup of coffee while shopping – all these expenses can add up to hundreds of dollars (or more) per month. According to Investopedia and other finance sites, some of the best apps for savers include Mint, Wally, and You Need a Budget. The latter is particularly handy for shopaholics because it works around the premise that every dollar you have should fulfil a useful purpose. After helping you allocate budgets to different expenses, it gives you advice on how to re-balance your budget. By using the app, you can look forward to repaying around $500 in debt in your first month of use. Acorns is another useful app that rounds up every expense you pay with a credit card, investing this ‘change’ automatically on your behalf. 

Financial experts normally recommend that you set aside around 20% of your income for savings. Depending on how much you earn, it may still be possible to do this while building the wardrobe of your dreams. Use an app like Mint to set a limit for your monthly shopping and stick to your budget. List the quality items you need and take advantage of special days like Black Friday to get your hands on a highly coveted purchase. Finally, don’t waste money by using a high-interest credit card. Live within your means but don’t be hesitant to give yourself an occasional treat.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

ATHLEISURE BEAUTY

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Athleisure Beauty in mag.

#TRIBEGOALS

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see #TRIBEGOALS in mag.

STYLE FILES | RESORT

Read the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Style Files Resort in mag.

WHAT ARE TERPENES?

Smell that cheese?! Or as a vegan would put – the scent of nutritional yeast?

 One whiff of a cannabis flower perks you up with its lemon scent, yet another reminds you of a lavender essential oil your yoga teacher luxuriously massages your tense neck muscles with.

 Why does each strain of cannabis smell differently? And do different fragrant correlate with anything else, like the plant’s benefits?

The answer to your scent-related questions can all be answered by exploring one thing – terpenes! 

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes, similar to terpenoids, are a combination of carbon and hydrogen that naturally occur in cannabis plants. Let’s refer to them as “hydrocarbons”.

What’s the difference between a terpene and a terpenoid?

Terpenoids are essentially terpenes that have been dried out via a chemical modification, which alters the oxygen compound, whereas terpenes are the organic, naturally occurring combo of hydrogen and oxygen before any alterations.

Terpenes are birthed in the trichomes of the cannabis plant. What are the trichomes?!

Trichomes are the crystal-like part of the plant, on the outside of the plant’s leaves and buds. The trichomes’ duty is to protect the plant from invaders, like insects and animals.

Trichomes are smart and have the same idea as nasty-smelling skunks – they create pungent odors (terpenes) to repel outsiders. According to this review here, they are

As terpenes repel the bad guys, they also lure in pollinators.  

Different Types of Terpenes

The creation of terpenes are influenced by the plant’s environment – weather, time of day, soil, fertilization, maturation, etc.

Just as different essential oils perk you up or mellow you out, effects of terpenes vary.

There are two basic types of terpenes, sativa terpenes and indica terpenes. Sativa terpenes smell bright like an orange or lemon and tend to boost your energy. The opposite, indica terpenes, are more soothing, with scents similar to a pine cone.

Terpenes are broken down even further according to their specific smell and benefits. Here are the most common:

-        Limonene – smells like a citrus fruit, and is also found in… you guessed it - citrus fruits! Some benefits include treatment for anxiety, depression, pain and inflammation.

-        Beta-caryophyllene – fragrances like spices – black pepper, pine, cloves and cinnamon. A few benefits include easing pain, ulcers, and anxiety.

-        Linalool -  smells like florally plants such as lavender, with similar benefits – relaxation.

-        Myrcene – the most commonly found terpene is also found in fruits like a mango! Effects of myrcene are similar to the old tv commercials of cartoons melted into a couch – they have a sedating, calming effect.

Further Benefits of Terpenes

Terpenes are not only found in the cannabis plant – they are found in just about every plant!

Therapeutic effects of terpenes rise even more when mixed with cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

Strands of the cannabis plant vary dependent on the terpenes, which correlate with an array of benefits, depending on the plant’s scent.

The more you train your nose, the easier it is to identify terpenes, thus identifying different strands of cannabis! Finally, your nose gets a chance to participate in the cannabinoid fun.

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TOMATO BEAUTY

Read the July issue of Athleisure Mag and see Tomato Beauty in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | #43 JUL 2019

We’re excited to drop our latest issue of Athleisure Mag which is covered by ESPN’s Broadcaster/Journalist and author, Marty Smith. You’ve seen him on SportsCenter, College GameDay, SEC Nation and more. Check out his cover shoot which took place in Ocean City, NJ.

Read the July Issue here.

DON'T DO IT YOURSELF SKINCARE: HOME INGREDIENTS YOU SHOULD NEVER USE ON YOUR FACE

There are 47 million Instagram hashtags for #DIY.  It’s a hot topic for everything from home décor to crafting, and of course beauty. DIY skincare is hyped as a safe and affordable alternative to store-bought products. Just because it can grow in your backyard or exists in your medicine cabinet, doesn't mean it's good for your skin. Looking into cleaner cosmetics isn't a bad idea, but some natural ingredients YouTube and Instagram sensations swear by can cause adverse side effects. Dr. Gretchen Frieling, a board-certified Boston Area Dermatopathologist, warns us about the most touted DIY skincare ingredients and why you should never put them on your face. 

Take these products off of your skincare DIY List  

Toothpaste for acne spots
Treating pimples with toothpaste is backed by many who have extolled its drying properties. While it can dry the pimple out, Dr. Frieling explains, "it can also cause irritation, redness, and even peeling." The trend most likely started because toothpaste contains ingredients such as baking soda or hydrogen peroxide, which are drying. "This is no better than any over-the-counter products," she adds "and may make the problem worse." The chemical and ingredients in toothpaste that fight bacteria are made for your teeth, not your skin!
 
Citric acid (lemons and limes) as toners
You may have seen DIY exfoliators or toners featuring lemon juice as an ingredient -- but you should really avoid putting this on your face. Dr. Frieling shares, "Because of its high acidity, lemon juice can disrupt the natural pH levels of your skin leading to irritation and hyperpigmentation." While this reaction is not the same for everyone else, it's best to stay away from lemon juice, as you the acidity varies for every lemon. 
 
"A small splash of lemon juice on an acne scar or blemish is said to reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten the skin.  But, you may leave your skin with a bigger problem if you go in the sun." Dr. Frieling explains that citric acid in its natural form contains a phototoxic compound called psoralens, which can cause a severe chemical burn when exposed to UV rays. Thankfully, this compound can be extracted from lemon juice through processing, so just because a product contains citric acid doesn't mean you should always avoid it.  
 
Rubbing alcohol to dry acne
At the crux of germ-fighting products, rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol cleans wounds, disinfects, and sanitizes the skin. You think it would be great for your face too, right? Think again! "Repeated exposure to isopropyl alcohol on the face strips the skin of its natural protective barrier, oils, and irritates the skin." shares Dr. Frieling. While rubbing alcohol works great to remove bacteria, it's not always what is causing acne breakouts. "Good acne products treat all aspects of the problem," she adds, not just the surface of the skin. "They should target the inner layers of the skin and protecting it's natural pH levels in ways rubbing alcohol can't," says Dr. Frieling. 
    
Baking soda as an exfoliator
Baking soda is an alkaline, meaning it attempts to neutralize acidity. When it comes to healthy skin, Dr. Frieling says it should have a pH level of around 5.5. "Baking soda (a pH of 9) can alter the outer layer of skin and actually cause it to break down," she adds, "leaving the skin vulnerable to bacteria and worsening the condition." Baking soda, much like salt or sugar, is also used as a physical exfoliator. Although it can be useful in removing dead skin cells, Dr. Frieling does not recommend using baking soda on the face as over-exfoliation causes irritation. 
 
Raw eggs in your face mask
Anyone tell you not to eat raw eggs? Claims of salmonella and stomach issues would persuade you against it, but what about your face?  While egg whites are definitely the cheaper alternative to most serums, Dr. Frieling says it should not go anywhere near your face. "If you have a scratch or unhealed blemish on your face, putting raw egg whites on your face can cause infection, not to mention possible allergic reactions," she explains. "Egg white masks are said to tighten pores and brighten the skin, but any pore-tightening properties just get wiped away when washed off."
 
Coconut oil as a moisturizer or cleanser
It's excellent for food, hair, and even the legs, but coconut oil needs to stay far away from your face. Some claim it does wonders for their skin, making it brighter and smoother, others not so much. "Coconut oil is extremely comedogenic," says Dr. Frieling "it can't be absorbed into the skin, clogging your pores, and causing more breakouts." But what about as a cleanser? "Even after washing off, coconut oil leaves a thin layer of film left behind which can suffocate your pores." adds Dr. Frieling. As an alternative, other plant-based oils like Argan oil are anti-comedogenic are great for removing makeup.

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