RIDE THE WAVES | GRIFFIN COLAPINTO

This month we're excited to share a number of stories from athletes who will be competing at this year's Paris 2024 games! While the majority of athletes will assemble in Paris for this year's Summer Games, those who are competing in surfing will make their way to Tahiti in Teahupo’o. This month's cover story is with World Surf League's #2 ranked pro-surfer Griffin Colapinto who will competing with Team USA Surfing, and will make his first Olympic appearance this year.

In addition to the success that he has had throughout his career and this year, we know he has an array of fans which includes Matthew McConaughey who has shown his public support of him at a number of meets. In addition to surfing, he is also in a film that is currently in the film circuit, Trilogy: New Wave and will be released this September. He stars alongside Australian Olympic surfer Ethan Ewing and Hawaiian Seth Moniz. The film focuses on the non-competitive side of surfing.

We wanted to know more about how he got into the sport, going pro, Paris 2024, and his partnership with Procter & Gamble's Athletes For Good alongside the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and his chosen charity which focuses on mental health.

ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you fall in love with the water?

GRIFFIN COLAPINTO: I fell in love with the water when I was about 3 years old!

AM: What was the moment that you realized that you wanted to surf professionally? Where did that journey come from as we know that you love the water, you loved surfing, and then you wanted to do it as a professional.

GC: Well, the journey started down at my dad’s surf camp. He started a surf camp down at Santa Clemente the year I was born and he ran that for 20 years. So I was just growing up with the beach and him and he was in love with surfing and the ocean and he was a lifeguard and a teacher so that carried over to running a surf camp in the summer time. He just created a rad family dynamic down there with all the instructors and I was just growing up on the sand every summer! That and I just started – I don’t know it was natural, I wasn’t forced into surfing and being a competitive person and playing games. I just took to it naturally because I was on the beach and the sand. I remember a lot of the kids that were down there and the instructors that were there would always be on the beach. I just wanted to be able to impress them with the things that I was able to do in the water. I remember taking a surf board out there in front of them and wanting to surf for them.

I had this one moment where I was probably 7 or 8 and I felt like I caught some air on a pipe and I remember looking at all of the instructors on the beach and they were cheering. That feeling right there triggered competitive surfing for me right there! Being able to perform for people made me really happy!

AM: What is an average week like for you when you’re out there surfing whether you’re training for competitions or whatever?

GC: Yeah, well! I definitely think that there is a lot of discipline on my routines whether I’m waking up early and doing everything that makes me feel good like meditation, writing, and surfing of course! Working out and all of those things are important. It’s also essential to give yourself time to rest and to recover and I also have fun! I enjoy golfing a lot so that’s a nice way to take my mind off of surfing because sometimes you can just plow yourself through into the ground too much! It's a good balance.

AM: Congrats on qualifying for Paris 2024! What are you looking forward to?

GC: Yeah, it’s pretty wild! So our Olympics, we will be in Tahiti which isn’t near Paris, but it’s going to be on its own little adventure over there! It should be pretty exciting from what I have heard! They have put in a lot of work over there in Teahupo’o and although I can’t say what it will be like yet, I’m excited!

AM: And you’re ready for it!

GC: I’m ready!

AM: Tell us about Athletes For Good as we know it’s an initiative between P&G, IOC, IPC – can you give us a little background on that?

GC: So the Athletes For Good, P&G granted us money to donate to our favorite charity. I donated funds towards To Write Love On Her Arms (TWLOHA) a mental health organization that provides the tools and mental health resources for anyone that is going through challenging times in their lives due to suicide or maybe there is a close family member in their family that did commit suicide and needs someone that they can talk to about it. You can go to TWLOHA and you can get a local counselor nearby and they just provide rad things like that. It is definitely a big deal these days with social media and everything going on and it can take you away from the source of where we came from. I’m really proud to be able to represent it.

AM: Had that been an organization that you had been involved with before? What drew you to picking TWLOHA in terms of where you wanted the donated funds to go to?

GC: Well, I originally got into mental health through surfing. My dream of being on the World Championship Tour and being a World Champion, it comes with a lot of challenges, and anytime you have a big goal in mind, there is going to be a lot of ups and downs with that. So, through that, the mental side of things plays a big role and I realized that and it opened my eyes to a lot of different perspectives and other people. I just kind of realized that there are a lot more people on similar paths that go through hard times. For me, I was super fortunate to grow up with amazing parents and to grow up in a beautiful community with a lot of support and I still find myself on days struggling with some slight depression and not very happy and not knowing why. I just felt that there are people who got dealt with a bad set of cards, a lot worse than me and I can only imagine what they are going through. So that’s what drove me into this space and it's really cool that P&G gave us this grant and I’m excited!

AM: You mentioned that when you’re taking time for yourself, you play golf! Are there other things that you do to take time for yourself to be in the place that you need to be so that you can infuse that energy into other areas of where you also want to be?

GC: Just kind of being aware of how I am feeling and what is best for me in the moment. As an athlete, it’s easy to over do it, to over exert yourself and to just be addicted to the hard work and you feel like you need to work, work, work, work, but in reality, half the battle is just being good at resting too! So learning that has been a big part of it and I feel that slowly but surely, I’m getting better every day!

AM: Which is an awesome skill to have too!

You can find out more about Athletes For Good that recognizes the efforts of athletes to improve their communities off the field. Griffin shares more information about TWLOHA and why he is involved with them in his IG post.

IG @griffin_cola

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | FRONT COVER, PG 16 + 20 Trevor Moran/Red Bull | BACK COVER, PG 18 + 22 Ryan Miller/Red Bull | PG 24 P&G |

Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see RIDE THE WAVES Griffin Colapinto in mag.

9PLAYLIST | CHEF ALEX MAZZIA

Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see 9PLAYLIST | Chef Alex Mazzia in mag.

4 Top Tips for Owning a Gym Empire

There are so many types of gym that exist in the modern day, and one for every kind of exercise you’re looking for, whether that’s intense cardio, fitness classes, or privacy to complete your own workout routine.

If you want to start your own gym empire, here are four top tips to help you achieve your dreams.

1.      Develop a Brand Identity

Developing your brand identity is crucial for deciding what kind of gym you want to open, and who your target audience is.

If you’re catering to an audience who loves to lift, for example, your marketing content and brand logo may be designed around this. Similarly if you run a women’s only gym, you may want to design your logo accordingly.

Market research should help you decide how to market your brand to your customers, and also which price point to use for your subscription fees. Setting the wrong fees will only alienate your customers and give your competitors more market share.

2.      Use SEO to Your Advantage

If you want your gym empire to thrive, investing in SEO is the way forward to expanding your customer reach and converting more people to purchase a subscription and use your gyms.

SEO experts are skilled in creating high quality SEO campaigns for businesses of all shapes and sizes, with specific attention paid to your target audience and making targets to help your business grow to brand new heights.

Whether your website needs some TLC, you need high quality content writing to rank higher in search engines using Google’s EEAT Guidelines or you need PPC marketing to rank higher than your organic competitors, consulting with experts will put you on the right track to success.

3.      Think About Aesthetics

For many, the gym can be a second home during a diet or lifestyle change, so ensuring that your gyms are a pleasant place to be will go a long way to retaining subscriptions and making your customers feel at home.

As well as creating top notch aesthetics for your gyms, you will also need to think about cleanliness. One of the most important qualities of a gym for subscribers is how clean it is, so ensuring that you have a high quality team of cleaning crew will be one of the best investments you can make.

Additionally, ensuring that you design your gyms to include decor that is easy to sanitise will help you to keep them looking brand new for longer. You could invest in an antiviral gym spray from retailers like Hygiene4Less that will keep your floors, walls, and equipment looking and feeling freshers for longer.

4.      Study a Business Degree

There’s no way better to run a fitness empire than with a business degree. If you’re looking to expand your business knowledge, distance learning providers like Signum Magnum College offer an array of business courses for high performing professionals.

This will assist you with furthering your opportunities as a business owner and allowing you to get ahead of your competition with expert business knowledge.

Do you have any tips for starting a gym empire? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

9PLAYLIST GAM3DAY | JORDAN CHILES

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THE 9LIST

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OUTSTANDING IN THE FIELD ON GOVERNORS ISLAND

We always love an immersive culinary experience where we enjoy great dishes as well as getting to know about an event or focus that will allow us to see the impact of our attendance long after a great meal is enjoyed. We’re excited to share that you have the opportunity to enjoy Outstanding in the Field on Governors Island on Aug 29th at 3pm. Executive Chef Andrew Ayala and Executive Pastry Chef Salvatore Martone from Midtown’s Michelin-starred French Restaurant, Le Jardinier by the Bastion Collection will have a one-of-a-kind meal that is not to be missed! This dinner’s guest oyster farm is Fishers Island Oyster Farm, the guest winery is Hermann J. Weimer Vineyard, and the guest beverage producer is Mountain Valley Spring Water.

We love that there are various components that bring this event together and as you can still get tickets to this event, here is some background. Outstanding in the Field is known as a roving restaurant that takes place in a designated city on a certain date where there are no walls. Many restaurants that we have interviewed within our issues are so proud of how they source their ingredients from purveyors, farmer’s markets etc. Since 1999, this organization arrives with their long tables in fields, orchards, and seashores - this is because this is where the harvested ingredients come from that will be part of your meal. They have done this in 50 US States as well as 24 countries in the world. The ability to truly connect farm to table and to showcase and celebrate those who labor to feed us is important.

PHOTO CREDIT | Adrian Blackwell

PHOTO CREDIT | Adrian Blackwell

In their effort to connect with local chefs, farmers, and artisans to create these unique experiences, it’s no wonder that the chefs of French restaurant, Le Jardinier will be participating this year! Executive Chef Andrew Ayala participated in the Miami ideation this past winter to showcase Florida’s produce and we’re sure that he will find inspiration for what the Northeast provides in the summer and sourcing seafood off the coast and experimenting with peak season ingredients.

The event will kick off with a cocktail hour and then will have a multi-course meal and the Manhattan skyline will serve as a backdrop on Governors Island which is only accessible via ferry. Tickets are still available for $425/pp.

This event is also in partnership with the Billion Oyster Project, an organization that engages local students and youth volunteers to restore New York Harbor’s lost oyster reefs. 

We’re looking forward to attending this event and will have details on it as well as interview with in our AUG ISSUE #104 which drops on Aug 30th.

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9LOOKS | IRO RTW 2025

Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LOOKS | Iro RTW 2025 in mag.

HEADING TO THE WINDY CITY | ALISON VICTORIA

We love watching a reality show where we learn something that we can implement in our own lives or be a source of general knowledge to share with our friends, family, and colleagues! There’s nothing better than a educational docu-series that is also a great source of entertainment. We caught up with Alison Victoria, Executive Producer and Host of Windy City Rehab as well as a recent nominee for a Daytime Emmy! We wanted to know more about her passion for interior design and building homes, coming to HGTV, all of the shows that we should have in mind as we settle down in our favorite spot, and what it means for her to receive the award accolades that have come her way. We also loved hearing about how she gives back and the importance of powering others either in the business or even when it comes to getting that first home!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the first space or home that made you realize that you love interior design or being able to create something new?

ALISON VICTORIA: My childhood bedroom. I shared a tiny room with my sister. I started by rearranging the space. It was like, how do I get my bed further from hers? How do I make this room feel like it’s my room? Then I started turning old Laura Ashley dresses into pillows and painting the furniture. Around that same time I was spending a lot of time at the house of my best friend Britt, I remember convincing her to tear up her carpet and get to the hardwood flooring. We ended painting everything peach.

AM: How old were you when you were ripping up the flooring?

AV: 11.

AM: And who was your inspiration?

AV: My mom always loved design and she designed our whole house so I definitely absorbed a lot of that from her.

AM: How do you define your design aesthetic?

AV: I think of it as vintage and modern. I take the heart from objects of the past and add in the optimism of the future to create something new. It’s eclectic and full of life, but it’s design that accentuates the way we live now.

AM: I am the Co-Founder/Creative + Style Dir. Of Athleisure Mag, I am also a fashion stylist. So if I have someone reach out to me I’m looking for people who want to have statement driven looks whether it’s based in athleisure, evening wear, out and about etc. But it’s about people who are looking to take their style and add various elements which includes visual texture as well as accessories. Someone who may be more of a minimalist or maybe they’re into a goth aesthetic, may not be a project that I opt to take on initially. I’m wondering what you look for when it comes to attaching yourself to your various design projects?

AV: It really comes down to personality and the connection that I feel. Sometimes I connect with the people over the project and sometimes it’s the other way around. I’m an artist and when I feel inspired, I design.

AM: I have been aware of you and your work for a number of years; however, I happened to check out your show during the pandemic that was when you turned your warehouse into your home.

With all of your work in the industry, how did you come to HGTV to become the Executive Producers of your shows as well as a TV Host?

AV: X years ago, I got a random email from a production company that was looking for a ghost designer to work on a show in Chicago. I responded, “I’m your girl.” I had no idea what that meant but I knew it was a start. I realized quickly that what it meant was long hours for no money, no credit, and no air time, but it was an entry point.

There were no shortcuts. It hasn’t been a straight line, but I had a dream of what I wanted to do with my life and how I wanted to run my business and I’ve put all of my energy towards those goals.I try to always represent my real vulnerability in the shows I produce and the shows where I’m in. I hope others fin something useful in how that looks, and as long as they do, I will keep going.

AM: You’ve been nominated for the Daytime Emmys and Critics Choice Real TV Awards for Windy City Rehab, what does this mean to you?

AV: Oh my gosh! Dreams do come true! My dream was to be nominated for an Emmy. I didn’t even go as far as to say that I wanted to win. Just being nominated is a huge honor. I love to design, I love making people’s dreams come true. Combining the two and then receiving the recognition just takes it to a whole new level of like, wow, people are actually getting this. And not only are they getting it, they are recognizing it as great television. As an Executive Producer and as a creator of my show, that means much more to me then if I was just talent. I created it, I’m an EP, I’m on air talent, and I’m the designer so it couldn’t mean more to me to be nominated. Now the goal is to win.

AM: Can you tell us a bit about the show for those who haven’t watched it and what you’re excited for?

AV: Windy City Rehab is in its 5th season. The new season is airing on September 24th. It’s a docu-series and it’s one of the first docu-series ever on HGTV where you truly follow my life and my design. There are no overly produced parts of my show. It’s very real. The good, the bad, and the ugly of my life and this business. The show looks at how I navigate successes and setbacks and it gives you glimpses into my personal life and how that marries with my professional life. There’s no smoke and mirrors in my show. What you see on Windy City Rehab is what I’m experiencing in my life. I am the same person you see on the show. I’m not an actress.

For me, it’s about showing people who I am, what I believe in, and how I stand up for myself and my clients. The result are beautiful spaces, but how we get there is the most interesting part.

AM: So you’re working on your own production company, Briefly Gorgeous Productions. Tell me about this and why you wanted to do this?

AV: I created Briefly Gorgeous Productions to help bring truly vulnerable reality TV to smart audiences. I have already created two successful shows but there are so many great stories to tell. Some of those stories will be in the home space but some will be in totally unrelated, but equally interesting, areas of life. I love to laugh, I love seeing real people doing real things, and I love watching lives evolve. There is comedy, tragedy, and triumph in every story. Briefly Gorgeous will make sure the stories are told with true integrity.

I knew that if I could do this for me, I could do this for others. Windy City Rehab has always connected with viewers because they see and feel the authenticity. I want to continue that with everything produced through Briefly Gorgeous productions. This is just the beginning.

AM: That’s really great to hear.

You’ve also worked with Habitat for Humanity and you’re a spokesperson for the Women Build Campaign. I’d really like to hear more about that.

AV: I’ve been doing it for 5 years now and for me, owning your first home, it’s one of the greatest days of anyone’s life – always and forever. Especially as a single woman. When I got my first home, I was the proudest that I ever felt – probably other than getting nominated for an Emmy!

AM: Ha – right!

AV: Anyone that is able to have a house through Habitat, has to put in their own sweat equity. I have the greatest team and they volunteer and come out to help. We work together and help the homeowner build her dream home. We empower her through hard work, empower her through just having fun, and we make sure that she has the support. I love that!

AM: That’s really fantastic.

Are there any upcoming projects that we should keep an eye out for as I know you are a very busy woman who is doing tons of things.

AV: Windy City Rehab season 5 is premiering Sept 24th! It’s 12 episodes and I believe this is our best season yet!

Scariest House in America with Retta premiers in October.

Ugliest House in America season 6 premieres this winter and I am going to be on a big show that will be announced very soon! 

I mean, I’m not stopping! It’s go time! It’s time to win that Emmy.

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HOW TO CHOOSE A GIFT THAT ENCOURAGES CREATIVITY IN KIDS

In the modern world, creativity is a vital skill that can open countless doors for both personal satisfaction and professional opportunities. Encouraging creativity in children can help them solve problems, think innovatively, and develop an appreciation for the arts and sciences. Selecting a gift that nurtures this trait can be both rewarding and fun.

This article will guide you through choosing a present that inspires imagination and creativity in kids, with a focus on understanding their interests, the science behind creative play, and offering diverse options to spark their imagination.

Understanding the Child's Interests

The first step in choosing a creative gift begins with understanding the child’s interests and preferences. Does the child enjoy painting, building structures, or role-playing scenarios with dolls and action figures? For instance, if you are looking for a gift for a girl who loves to paint, an easel with high-quality brushes and paints might be the ideal choice. Alternatively, if she enjoys building and creating complex structures, a set of challenging construction blocks or a beginner's robotics kit can stimulate her creativity in constructive play.

Personal interests play a critical role in how children engage with their environment and, consequently, how they will react to a creative gift. By aligning the gift with their current passions, you ensure that they remain engaged and challenged, making the gift much more impactful.

The Science Behind Creative Play

Understanding why creative play is so beneficial can also help in selecting the right gift. Experts suggest that creative play enhances cognitive processes such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional expression. This kind of play encourages children to think outside the box, fostering adaptability and resilience.

For example, toys that require assembly, such as puzzles or model kits, not only engage a child's attention but also improve their spatial awareness and reasoning skills. Art supplies, like coloring books or clay, allow children to express their imagination, refine motor skills, and even relieve stress. Therefore, when choosing a gift, consider its potential to develop these critical skills while providing enjoyment.

Diverse Options to Spark Imagination

A wide range of options exists when selecting a gift that encourages creativity. Here are some suggestions that cater to different age groups and interests:

Art and Craft Supplies: From watercolor sets and sketchbooks to jewelry-making kits, art supplies provide a blank canvas for children to explore their artistic abilities. Look for kits that offer various mediums like oil pastels, colored pencils, or charcoal for older kids looking to experiment with different styles.

Building and Construction Sets: Legos, magnetic tiles, and other construction sets can foster problem-solving skills and spatial awareness. These sets often come with instructions for specific builds but also allow for freeform construction, enabling children to use their imagination to create unique structures.

Music Instruments: Instruments such as keyboards, guitars, or digital music composition pads encourage musical exploration. Music is an expressive form of creativity that can boost cognitive development and improve emotional intelligence.

Coding and Robotics Kits: With today's technology-driven world, engaging children in basic coding and robotics can be both educational and creative. Kits that allow children to build and program their robots are exciting gifts for those intrigued by technology and engineering.

Role-Playing and Dress-Up: Costumes and role-playing accessories enable children to dive into imaginary worlds. These gifts encourage storytelling, empathy, and greater understanding of social roles and relationships.

Involve the Child in the Decision

While surprises are wonderful, sometimes involving the child in selecting their creative gift can be beneficial. Discuss their current interests or even take them shopping for a creative gift. This way, you can ensure that the present not only captures their interest but is something they genuinely want to explore.

Conclusion

Choosing a creative gift for kids is about more than just the immediate enjoyment; it's about inspiring a lifelong passion for creativity. By focusing on a child’s interests, understanding the science behind play, and considering diverse options, you can select a gift that stimulates creativity, encourages personal and cognitive growth, and brings joy.

As you navigate the many possibilities, remember that the best gift is one that aligns with the child’s unique personality and opens up new pathways for exploration and learning.

THE PICK ME UP

Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see THE PICK ME UP in mag.

IN OUR BAG | FOR A CATCH UP WHILE HIKING

Read the JUL ISSUE #103 of Athleisure Mag and see IN OUR BAG | For A Catch Up While Hiking in mag.

KEEPING IT CLEAN | KEEGAN MICHAEL-KEY

We had the pleasure of catching up with Keegan Michael-Key who is an actor who always leaves us in good spirits! His ability to make you laugh and think is something that we appreciate. We enjoyed talking with him about his work as a teacher, investing in children’s lives through learning, partnering with Lysol to promote clean environments in school and at home, and of course his work on one of our favorite shows Abbott Elementary and other projects we’re excited about!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We have been a fan of yours for a number of years and have loved your shows and of course most recently, Abbott Elementary. But you actually have teaching experience at Penn State and at Second City. Can you tell us more about this?

KEEGAN MICHAEL-KEY: Yes, I was a graduate student at Penn State and I taught Fundamental Acting, Non-Majors and I had a really fulfilling and fun time doing that. I had a great time with the students and I also interestingly learned a lot and it helped reinforce the training that I was getting.

When I was a performer at the Second City Theater, both in Detroit and also in Chicago, I spent a good deal of time teaching improv as well as communications techniques to people. And also in Detroit at the Mosaic Youth Theater of Detroit, I spent time going to classrooms and teaching children improv skills. That was also a very fulfilling experience too. So I have done a lot of teaching in my past and I really really loved it.   

AM: That is such a great story! When did you realize that you wanted to be an actor?

KMK: I realized that I wanted to be an actor probably when gosh, I would have been around 14 or 15 and that would put me in high school. I was encouraged by a family friend and my drama teacher in school was really hands on and very supportive. She really helped to pull me into that world! Once I was in it, I was in love!

AM: Why do you feel that hands on learning is so important and can you tell us about HERE For Healthy Schools?

KMK: Yeah, to answer the first question, I think that when kids have an opportunity to do things hands on and interactive, I really feel that the information that they are being given that the teachers desires for them to receive, really gets into their minds better and they can practically handle things and move through things. It’s more effective learning and that is kind of why I wanted to work with Lysol at the HERE for Healthy Schools Program this particular year. Because, what they are doing with the initiative this year, is that they are putting together the Lysol Minilabs Science Kits and the kits are going to contain educational materials that are designed to be hands-on so that the kids can learn about germ education, healthy habits, and how to keep the classroom environment as well as the general environment clean.

AM: Whether you have children that are going back to school, maybe you’re an aunt or uncle, or you just live alone solo, what are some healthy habits that we need to know about so that we’re not transferring germs and we’re reducing all the ick?

KMK: Ha – all the ick! You know, I think that the first thing across the board that everyone can do and that we can always teach children, is of course, washing our hands. Washing our hands after an activity, washing our hands after using the bathroom so that we’re not the germ spreaders if that makes any sense? We’re so mobile as humans, and then we’re the ones spreading the germs! So cutting that off at the pass if you will and then also, when you think about countertops, and desktops, and door handles which are things that we come into contact with every single day, and many times during the day, it’s just a wipe here or a spray there that can hopefully keep the germs down. Then we’re allowing ourselves to be in a cleaner environment!

AM: 100%!

Obviously, you have so many awesome things that are coming up obviously Season 4 of Abbott Elementary is slated to premiere on ABC on Oct 9th! Every time that we see you on the screen we just know that it’s going to be good. What can you tell us about – obviously not a lot – as we prepare for the next season?

KMK: Well, without giving away next season, you can stream Season 3 now of Abbott Elementary now which I am really happy for people as you can enjoy repeat viewings if you feel so inclined! I have a small arc on the show in the season where I play the Superintendent of Schools in Philadelphia which is where Janine, Quinta Brunson’s (A Black Lady Sketch Show, History of the World: Part II, Weird: The Al Yankovick Story) character works now and she feels encouraged to affect more change in the school system. You get to watch that story play out and really the big thing that you get to watch playout is this struggle between her love for everyone and the students at Abbott Elementary and then this more macro environment with the Superintendent and there is this struggle of being pulled between these two things. Can I do more good here? Should I go back to Abbott and be more of a boots on the ground? She’s trying to figure out what way can she be more effective for the students?

AM: We enjoyed watching the 3rd season and getting that layer.

What attracted you to want to be on this show? So many people love this show and so many actors and other people are trying to find ways to get into this show!

KMK: Oh yeah!

AM: What was it for you that made you want to do it?

KMK: First of all, I think that Quinta is a real amazing talent and I have known her for years and I have watched her grow as an artist and the pride I feel for her is overwhelming because what she has done is such an achievement! But also, within that, is the humanity of the show. I think that just the thematic subject matter of the show is about nurturing and investing in our future which is about children. It’s also this kind of intrinsic, American underdog story – an underfunded school district, how do we pull ourselves up by the boot straps and do what we have to do for the betterment of these children. So that is really heartwarming in a way it is very inviting because they are letting the world in and it is inspiring. That is why I wanted to be part of it. It’s also very funny!

AM: Oh it’s very funny!

KMK: So funny!

AM: Well you’re also in Transformers One and Dear Santa! That’s 2 amazing additional projects that are coming out! We’re sure that you’re excited about them and can you tell us about them?

KMK: Well, Transformers One will be coming out in September 20th and it’s a really exciting project to work on. The director is a gentleman by the name of Josh Cooley (Up, Inside Out, Soul), very talented animation director. He directed Toy Story 4 that I starred in with Jordan Peele (Get Out, Us, Nope). We played partners – we played a little stuffed duck and a little stuffed rabbit that were connected to each other and we had such a great time that Josh asked me to come on and play Bumblebee in Transformers One which really is an honor because he’s a very popular character in the Transformers universe!

Dear Santa is a holiday movie that stars Jack Black (Jumanji universe, Kung Fu Panda universe, The Super Mario Bros. Movie) and he is absolutely fantastic and I hope you go see it and everyone that you know goes to see it! It’s really fun and it has a lot of heart. It’s silly and zany and it’s going to be great!

AM: Do you have any other projects whether it’s TV, film, or just philanthropic that you would like for us to know about that we should keep an eye out for because you’re always doing great things! It’s great to see you in a number of commercials as well as you are a busy man!  

KMK: Ha ha yes I am praise God!

Well one thing in September that is coming up, I wrote a book with my partner at Elle Key (August, Fair Game, The Blackout), we wrote a book called The History of Sketch Comedy: A Journey Through the Art and Craft of Humor, and the audio version of that book is coming out then. So again, I know that it is early for the holiday season, but if people want to, they have the opportunity to download that or to send it as a gift and it was a real passion project for us and we’re really proud of the book. So there is also that! So that’s about it for right now if that’s not enough!

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HERE'S WHY YOU NEED AN E-BIKE FOR OFF ROADING

Are you an adventure enthusiast looking to explore off-road trails with ease and efficiency? Traditional bikes may not offer the power and versatility you need. Enter the e-bike, a game-changer in the world of off-road biking. In 2023, the global e-bike market was valued at over $40 billion, with a significant portion attributed to off-road models. E-bikes are becoming the preferred choice for many off-roaders, offering a blend of power, control, and sustainability that conventional bikes can't match.

The problem many off-road enthusiasts face is the physical exhaustion and limitations posed by traditional bikes. This is where e-bikes shine, providing that extra boost to conquer challenging trails without the strain. Let's dive into why an e-bike should be your go-to for off-roading.

1.      Enhanced Power and Performance for Tough Trails

E-bikes come with powerful motors that provide extra torque, making it easier to climb steep hills and navigate rough terrain. This means less physical strain and more enjoyment during your rides. Traditional mountain biking requires immense physical effort, especially on challenging trails with sharp inclines. With an e-bike, the motor assists you, allowing you to tackle these tough trails without feeling exhausted. This enhanced power not only boosts your performance but also opens up new possibilities for exploring trails that were previously too difficult.

The motor assistance is particularly useful when you encounter unexpected obstacles like loose gravel or sudden dips in the trail. Instead of struggling and potentially risking a fall, the e-bike’s power gives you the confidence to ride smoothly over these challenges. This feature is a game-changer for both experienced riders looking to push their limits and beginners who want to enjoy off-roading without the steep learning curve.

2.      Superior Suspension Systems for a Smoother Ride

An electric bike for adults is designed for off-roading and often features advanced suspension systems. These systems absorb shocks and bumps, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride, even on the roughest trails. When you’re riding on uneven terrain, the suspension system plays a crucial role in maintaining control and comfort.

High-quality suspension systems on e-bikes are engineered to handle the rigors of off-roading. They absorb the impact of rocks, roots, and other obstacles, reducing the strain on your body. This means you can ride longer and harder without feeling the fatigue that comes from constant jarring. The superior suspension also enhances your bike’s stability, allowing you to navigate technical sections of the trail with confidence and precision.

3.      Extended Range and Impressive Battery Life

One of the biggest advantages of buying an e-bike is its battery life. Modern e-bikes can cover significant distances on a single charge, allowing you to explore further without worrying about running out of power. Traditional bikes might limit you to nearby trails, but with an e-bike, you can venture into new territories and discover hidden gems in the wilderness.

Advanced battery technology ensures that your e-bike can handle long rides, making it ideal for day-long adventures. Whether you’re planning a trip through a dense forest or a scenic ride along mountainous paths, the extended range of an e-bike gives you the freedom to explore without constantly checking your battery level. This peace of mind allows you to focus on the thrill of the ride and the beauty of your surroundings.

4.      Versatility in Handling Different Terrains

Whether you're riding on rocky paths, muddy trails, or sandy dunes, e-bikes handle various terrains with ease. Their robust design and powerful motors ensure stability and control in diverse conditions. Traditional bikes often struggle in certain environments, but e-bikes are built to adapt.

The versatility of an e-bike means you don’t have to limit your adventures to well-trodden paths. You can explore off-the-beaten-track locations and experience the thrill of conquering different types of terrain. The powerful motor assists you in maintaining traction and momentum, whether you’re climbing a steep, rocky incline or navigating through a muddy, slippery trail. This adaptability makes e-bikes a perfect choice for adventurers who want to explore diverse landscapes.

5.      Eco-Friendly Adventure for Conscious Riders

E-bikes are a green alternative to off-road vehicles that run on fossil fuels. They offer an eco-friendly way to enjoy nature without contributing to pollution or noise. As environmental concerns become more pressing, choosing sustainable modes of transportation is increasingly important. E-bikes provide an exciting way to explore the great outdoors while minimizing your ecological footprint.

The quiet operation of e-bikes allows you to experience nature without the disruptive noise of traditional motorized vehicles. This not only enhances your connection with the environment but also ensures that you’re respecting the natural habitats you’re exploring. Riding an e-bike is a step towards responsible adventuring, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature while preserving it for future generations.

6.      Increased Safety Features for Peace of Mind

Many e-bikes come equipped with advanced safety features such as hydraulic disc brakes, which provide superior stopping power. These brakes are essential for off-roading, where quick and reliable stopping can make a big difference in challenging conditions. Traditional bikes may not offer the same level of control, especially on steep descents or slippery trails.

Additionally, e-bikes often feature enhanced lighting systems, ensuring better visibility during early morning or late evening rides. Whether you're navigating a dense forest at dusk or riding along a foggy trail, these lights help you see and be seen. The inclusion of safety features like these ensures that your off-roading adventures are not only thrilling but also secure.

7.      Cost-Effective Choice for the Long Run

While the initial investment in an e-bike might be higher than a traditional bike, the long-term savings are significant. Reduced maintenance costs and the elimination of fuel expenses make e-bikes a cost-effective choice. Over time, the savings on fuel alone can offset the initial purchase price, making e-bikes a smart financial decision.

E-bikes also tend to have lower maintenance requirements compared to traditional off-road vehicles. With fewer moving parts and simpler mechanical systems, e-bikes are easier and cheaper to maintain. This cost-effectiveness, combined with the benefits of enhanced performance and versatility, makes e-bikes a worthy investment for any off-roading enthusiast.

Conclusion

E-bikes revolutionize the off-roading experience by combining power, versatility, and eco-friendliness. They provide enhanced performance with powerful motors, extend your range with impressive battery life, and offer superior suspension systems for a smoother ride. E-bikes handle various terrains with ease and are an eco-friendly option for conscious adventurers. With increased safety features, fitness benefits, extensive customization options, and community support, e-bikes are a cost-effective and enjoyable choice for off-roading.

Whether you're an experienced off-roader looking to push your limits or a newcomer seeking an exciting way to explore nature, an e-bike can enhance your rides in countless ways. Embrace the future of off-roading and make your next adventure an e-bike adventure.

THE BACHELORETTE S21. E5. | WHAT'S A GIRL TO DO?

PHOTO CREDIT | ABC The Bachelorette

This week, The Bachelorette reminds that drama never takes a rest! We remember from last week that Jenn Tran’s ex, Matt, has arrived and wants to be able to compete for her heart. The guys are excited to have blue skies for this cocktail party - not quite! Jesse Palmer connects with her to ask her how she is feeling with this addition and the fact that the men are not aware of what she is about to tell them when she joins them. She sits down and thanks them for a great week. She tells them that Matt came in from Auckland and wants to join in on the journey. She lets them know that not only is he there, but she will need to talk with him as well. The men are upset as they have so many questions - will he join the house, how strong are their connections, what does this mean? Devin announces that if Matt does join the group, he knows that his rose means something and he will leave. Grant tells him that he should trust the process.

After talking with Jenn, Matt walks into the room with the men and lets him know that he will not be staying because Jenn has moved on and sees her future with them. Once he leaves, Jenn tells the men the same thing and says that although she appreciated him saying that he loved her as she had never heard that, she was sending him on his way. The guys also didn’t get any time with her as she is heading straight to the ceremony.

Since there was a ceremony at the beginning of the show, she gave roses to Austin, Devin, Dylan, Grant, Jeremy, Jonathan, Marcus, Sam M., and Spencer. She sends John and Thomas home.

Jesse catches up again with Jenn acknowledging that the night before was a lot and he also asks what she feels she wants to see as she moves forward. The 9 guys are chatting with one another when a date card arrives and Jonathan receives a 1-on1. His date includes a helicopter ride and we know that he is uncomfortable with heights, but is willing to do it for his date. She had a helicopter date earlier this season, but this one is taking them to a vineyard. The play hide and seek, toss grapes in each other’s mouths and of course they sit in a hot tub.

They make their way to the dinner portion of the night and we know that they have cutesy vibes with one another, but we also know that she wants to know more so that she can be connected with him.

While Jonathan opens up with Jenn about past relationships and things that took place with his family, another date card arrives for the group, Devin, Sam, Marcus, Spencer, Jeremy, Dylan, and Austin. Grant is getting the 1-on-1 date.

Jenn encourages Jonathan to continue to be vulnerable and to open up and he gets the 1-on-1 date rose. They have a cute kiss in the rain as it if was on cue!

It seems like for the group date that the guys arrive to a farm and we know that it will get messy. When they arrive, Jenn lets them know she has a few friends who will be on the date - sheep and it’s quite a lot along with a shepheard dog. She introduces them to a couple who are the owners of the sheep farm and they are looking for the best farmer and the winner will get to have more time with The Bachelorette. The try to get sheep through a gate which was an epic fail, they shoveled poo, and cut dingleberries from the sheep. The farmers award Devin with best farmer’s award and Austin feels that he didn’t do anything and someone in the group of other guys deserved it as they didn’t shirk their work.

So, the group date after party begins and Spencer asks if Devin deserved having the best farmer of the date and he responds that it’s about taking initiative. Devin hopes that he will get a rose as he’s taking all the time he can to continue to connect with her. Jenn says she wants to continue the connections and why they are choosing one another. Austin airs his grievances during the confessional because he knows he has not had a 1-on-1 date with her.

Austin finally gets some time with Jenn and he lets her know that he is always going to be up front and honest with her. He tells her that he always feels like he is always playing catch up and that he feels that he can’t do that. He lets her know that he doesn’t think it is fair to her or himself to continue the journey. Jenn says she is surprised and doesn’t want to hear this, but she can accept where he is coming from. Austin decides to go home and she is now concerned that she may not be enough for others in this group. The producers ask if she has shared this with them and she says that if she does, she is concerned that they will see how worthless she is She’s not feeling good enough or worthy enough and she thinks that there is a possibility that she may end up being alone.

Dylan fills them in as he was Austin’s roommate and he knows that he hasn’t felt like he has connected in the same way. She lets the guys know that today was crazy and she is vulnerable with them by sharing that she doesn’t feel that she is not good enough. Sometimes she doesn’t feel amazing. It was sweet to hear the guys rally around her and let her know that she means a lot to them and it’s ok to feel the way she does and to know that they don’t see her that way. They tell her in a group setting and they also say it individually as well. She opts to not give out a rose because everyone stepped up to cheer her up and to be there for her.

Now we come to the last 1-on-1 date of the week which is with Grant. As Jenn arrives to the date, she is in a much better head space and is ready to explore her connection with him. Their date involves horseback riding and Grant is excited to spend this time with her. He even talks about how he is aware of the feelings that she went through yesterday and he wanted to check in. They navigate the trail and they talk about how she would love to own a farm as she loves animals and they arrive at the beach as they continue to ride. She knows that its important to have strong relationships and she knows the weight of this date. As it rains on the beach with their picnic, they are vulnerable with one another.

They continue their date into dinner. Grant realizes that she knows the surface stuff about him, but not other elements that make him unique and he knows he has to share that with her. He gets into his imperfections and talks about his family and how he had a hard upbringing and that his dad had an alcohol program and he felt that he was being lied to. Even as recently as him leaving for the show, he let him know that he was checking into rehab and now he has been able to connect with his father being 2 months sober and it’s a new him that he gets to learn. They connect on the fact that they didn’t have that father figure and what it meant to them. She gives him the 1-on-1 rose and appreciates how he was vulnerable as well as sharing sentiments that are similar in their backgrounds.

The men arrive for the cocktail party before the rose ceremony. With 2 men secure with their rose, the other 6 are feeling that the stakes are pretty high. Grant shares that he thinks he is falling in love with Jenn. The guys uncomfortably absorb his announcement. Time is always a tough character in this scenario and all of them feel nervous. She arrives and says that they look great and she is happy to see them. She appreciates how they have shown up for her and it meant a lot to her. Because she saw how they supported her, she doesn’t feel the need to have a cocktail party and will see them at the ceremony.

JENN GAVE ROSES TO | Devin, Grant, Jeremy, Jonathan, Marcus, Sam, and Spencer.

JENN DIDN’T GIVE ROSES TO | Austin, Dylan, John M., and Thomas N.

Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Bachelorette and you can chat along with us (@AthleisureMag + with our Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director, Kimmie Smith @ShesKimmie) to see what’s taking place!

Each week we will let you know who our faves were from the last episode and if we’ve changed up since then as it pertains to who we think should go to Hometowns.

We also suggest a podcast that we’ve become obsessed with over the past few seasons, Wondery’s Bachelor Happy Hour to get their feedback!

---

WHO WE PREDICT WILL GO TO HOMETOWNS

DEVIN

GRANT

MARCUS

SAM M.

PHOTO CREDIT | The Bachelor Contestants/Ricky Middlesworth

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THE BACHELORETTE CONTESTANTS

AARON

AUSTIN

BRENDAN

BRETT

BRIAN

DAKOTA

DEVIN

DYLAN

GRANT

HAKEEM

JAHAAN

JEREMY

JOHN M.

JONATHAN J.

KEVIN

MARCUS

MARVIN

MATT

MOZE

RICKY

SAM M.

SAM N.

SPENCER

THOMAS

TOMAS

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FOR THE LOVE OF SOCCER | BERNARD KAMUNGO

When we watch our favorite sports or athletes, each person comes with a backstory, dreams, aspirations, and inspirations that come together through their love of the game and what it means to them. We sat down with Bernard Kamungo who plays for FC Dallas as well as joined the USMNT team earlier this year. He talks with us about how his love for soccer which started in the refugee camps of Tanzania kept him on a positive path and continued when he came to the US as a child. Unbeknownst to him, his love for the game would result in him going pro and being able to live his dreams of going out on the pitch throughout the season. We also talk about the importance of proper tools for recovery when injured as well as what he does prior to and after his matches.

ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you fall in love with soccer and at what point did you realize that you wanted to play it?

BERNARD KAMUNGO: I started playing when I was very young, probably as soon as I started walking. Growing up in Tanzania where soccer is the main sport, that made it easy for me to fall in love with playing soccer.

AM: You grew up in a Tanzanian refugee camp and began playing there. Can you tell me about the early days of you playing the game?

BK: I was born in a refugee camp and playing soccer helped me avoid a lot of negative stuff going on in and around my life. My family could not afford a living. We could not afford food, clothes, etc. So, most of the time, my friends and I were playing soccer after school for fun. 1v1, 2v2, and so on, just to get away from the negativity. It was the only thing that brought joy into my life at the time.

PHOTO COURTESY | Bernard Kamungo

AM: When you turned 14, you came to the US and continued playing. What was it like coming here and playing this sport?

BK: It was a dream come true coming to the US. I had seen a lot of movies, videos, and pictures of how amazing the country was, and I always wanted to come to the U.S. The freedom, jobs, and the culture. It is amazing. Some of those things, we don’t have them back home. Soccer played a big part for me to adapt and connect with people in the U.S., besides my family. I had to get out of my comfort zone. It was great getting to use the real soccer ball and cleats to play soccer. I believed one day I would get to do that, and it felt great to be able to do so for the first time.

AM: At what point did you want to go pro?

BK: I hate saying this now that I’m a pro footballer, but honestly, at that time, I had never thought about going pro. It was not realistic for me, so I tried not to think about it. Even though I had a lot of people that believed in me and knew I could make it.

AM: You signed with FC Dallas in 2021, what did it mean to you to join this team?

BK: It was surreal. Especially for someone like me who had just come from a refugee camp with such limited dreams. Being able to achieve that in such a short amount of time was unbelievable.

AM: When you're in season, what's it like when you're training for your games? Tell me about what an average week looks like in terms of training, working out, etc.

BK: My weekly schedule is not that bad. We mostly practice Monday through Friday and play games on Saturday, with an off day on Sunday.

Our practice time changes depending on the month we are in, and we adjust based on the weather. Right now, our report time is 8:00 a.m. I wake up at 6:50 a.m., pray, shower, meditate, have some tea, and head to the stadium for breakfast. I get to the stadium around 7:50 a.m. After breakfast, I go to the gym to foam roll, stretch, and for mobility training before I am ready for practice starting at 9:00 or 9:30 am. Depending on how long meetings take after practice and training, I take an ice bath and get a massage, if I’m sore or tired. I am always looking out for my body and overall well-being, so whether that means settling in for some TLC after practice or suiting up with The BetterGuard during practice and games, I will do what I can to make sure I am performing at my best and preventing any injuries that I can. After that, I’ll eat at the stadium or go home and have lunch, about an hour or two after practice. 

When I’m home, I spend time with my family for a bit, take a 30-minute nap, sometimes more, depending on how I feel. I will read, play FIFA, or watch a movie, while I’m wearing my Hyperice recovery boots. I end my day by eating a healthy dinner at 7:30 p.m. and going to bed around 10:30 p.m. before repeating this same schedule the following day.

AM: What are you looking forward to this season as I know you're currently in the regular season right now.

BK: This season, my goal is to lift a trophy at this wonderful club with all my amazing teammates.

PHOTO COURTESY | Bernard Kamungo

AM: Do you have any routines that you do before a match to get ready for the game and what do you do post-game to come down from all that energy on the field?

BK: My game day routine is so simple. Most of our games are played at 7:30 p.m. and we report at 5:40 p.m. I’ll sleep as much as I can the night before the game. I normally wake up between 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. and have brunch. I keep my mind and body at ease, preparing for games by wearing my recovery boots and relaxing for a bit by reading, while getting in the game day mindset by playing a bit of FIFA or watching clips of soccer games. I then take a 30-minute nap and, when I wake up, eat my pregame meal by 3:00 or 3:30 p.m., at the latest. Once I shower and meditate, I head to the stadium. My head is in the game, and we hopefully come home victorious. After the game, I go home, but I find it hard to sleep after a game. I’m not a talker after games, so I just sit and take it all in, whether I am sitting alone in my room, playing FIFA, or with a small group of friends.

AM: What are your must-haves that you use to assist you in playing the game?

BK: Before the game, I must have either tea, hot milk or rice as my pregame meal. On the field, I rely on kinesiology tape to keep my wrist stabilized and The BetterGuard ankle brace to keep my ankle protected from serious injury. I went down during the end of the first game of the playoffs last season against Seattle. All I want to do is play soccer and compete and, when injury gets in the way, it is the most frustrating thing. Wearing The BetterGuard, I have been able to recover faster and get back on the field quickly, rejoining my team in Dallas to finish the 2023 season and join the USMNT to start 2024. The Betterguards’ team has been working to take their signature product to the next level, and I am excited for everyone to get their hands on The BetterGuard 2.0, launching July 31, to experience the peak athletic performance I have while wearing the brace.

AM: When you're not on the field, how do you take time for yourself?

BK: I like to stay indoors, so I spend most of my time inside, hanging out with my family and friends while trying to stay focused.

AM: Are there any projects coming up that you would like us to know about?

BK: I am so thankful for everyone’s support and look forward to seeing you at an upcoming FC Dallas match. Our season runs through October, and you can find more information, including where to watch or how to buy tickets at fcdallas.com. You can find me on Instagram @bernardk17.

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