Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE BEAUTY in mag.
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Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE BEAUTY in mag.
PHOTO CREDITS | Disney
PHOTO CREDIT | ABC/The Bachelor Key Art
PHOTO CREDIT FOR THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS | Disney/Matt Sayles
This season has moved quickly - it’s Hometowns on ABC’s The Bachelor. Grant heads to Boston to meet up with Julianna. They’re going to enjoy Little Italy in her hometown and he learns how to make pizza. They pick flowers together and they even make canolis which is a fun way for them to continue to meet one another.
They make their way to her home and he meets so many people and has 1-on-1 conversations with her parents and you can see that they get along. He lets her know that he is falling in love with her as she told him that last week!
He heads out to NYC to enjoy his next Hometown with Zoe. We see them in Central Park walking around. We know that Grant is originally from NJ so it’s familiar for him. He’s going to meet her family and friends. In addition to her working in tech, she takes him to a shoot with BRIDE’S magazine where they will do 3 looks together. They also meet her family and get to know them more. It seems that it went well although we don’t see them going the distance.
His next date takes him to Wyoming to meet Litia. He is nervous as he knows that not being Mormon may be an issue. They ride horses in the countryside together. They meet her family and then her mom lets her know that she has a surprise and there are even more people there then who he met at Julianna’s! Litia’s mom lets her know that she needs to let Grant know how she feels.
The final Hometowns takes place in Chicago with Dina! She tells him that her family is not going to meet with him because they don’t like the process although it is not a reflection on him. She lets him know that if they go forward, he would get to meet them and they would support their relationship. In addition, she lets him know that they will get to be with her friends, but she is nervous about what this will mean for their relationship. Meeting her friends, we think that he can see how they are her family as well and they reassure him that when he finally meets her family, he will be embraced! The fact that none of her 11 siblings showed up is quite a pill to swallow - you would think that someone would have stepped forward.
With the Hometowns being over, Grant meets up with Joey to get his perspective on how he needs to look at the days ahead. While Joey chats with him, the women are back talking with one another. They realize that there isn’t much time left and they talk about their Hometown dates. Dina hears how everyone had people (and in many cases large families there).
The rose ceremony brings the 4 ladies together as he makes his choices. We finally see Jesse Palmer as he decides between Dina and Zoe for the final rose. playing golf and chatting with one another.
RECEIVED A ROSE | Litia, Julianna, and Zoe.
DIDN’T RECEIVE A ROSE | Dina
Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden 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!
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Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag and see #TRIBEGOALS in mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | ABC/Oscars
Today the winners of the 97th Oscars took place today and was hosted by Conan O’Brien which aired on ABC as well as Hulu.
As we have done throughout Awards Season, we share our predictions in bold, the ones we correctly identified as winners are in bold italics and winners that we didn’t predict are in italics. Below are the winners which includes those that wwe predicted correctly as well as those we didn’t.
"Anora" (Neon)
"The Brutalist" (A24)
"A Complete Unknown" (Searchlight)
"Conclave" (Focus)
"Dune: Part Two" (Warner Bros.)
"Emilia Pérez" (Netflix)
"I'm Still Here" (Sony Classics)
"Nickel Boys" (Amazon/MGM)
"The Substance" (Mubi)
"Wicked" (Universal)
Sean Baker, "Anora"
Brady Corbet, "The Brutalist"
James Mangold, "A Complete Unknown"
Jacques Audiard, "Emilia Pérez"
Coralie Fargeat, "The Substance"
Cynthia Erivo, "Wicked"
Karla Sofia Gascón, "Emilia Pérez"
Mikey Madison, "Anora"
Demi Moore, "The Substance"
Fernanda Torres, "I'm Still Here"
Adrian Brody, "The Brutalist"
Timothée Chalamet, "A Complete Unknown"
Colman Domingo, "Sing Sing"
Ralph Fiennes, "Conclave"
Sebastian Stan, "The Apprentice"
Monica Barbaro, "A Complete Unknown"
Ariana Grande, "Wicked"
Felicity Jones, "The Brutalist"
Isabella Rossellini, "Conclave"
Zoe Saldaña, "Emilia Pérez"
Yura Borisov, "Anora"
Kieran Culkin, "A Real Pain"
Edward Norton, "A Complete Unknown"
Guy Pearce, "The Brutalist"
Jeremy Strong, "The Apprentice"
"Anora," Sean Baker
"The Brutalist," Brady Corbet & Mona Fastvold
"A Real Pain," Jesse Eisenberg
"September 5," Tim Fehlbaum & Moritz Binder
"The Substance," Coralie Fargeat
"A Complete Unknown," Jay Cocks & James Mangold
"Conclave," Peter Straughan
"Emilia Pérez," Jacques Audiard, Thomas Bidegain & Nicolas Livecchi
"Nickel Boys," RaMell Ross & Joslyn Barnes
"Sing Sing," Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin & John "Divine G" Whitfield
"I'm Still Here," Walter Salles (Brazil)
"The Girl with the Needle," Magnus von Horn (Denmark)
"Emilia Pérez," Jacques Audiard (France)
"The Seed of the Sacred Fig," Mohammad Rasoulof (Germany)
"Flow," Miguel Gomes (Latvia)
"Black Box Diaries," Shiori Itō (MTV)
"No Other Land," Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham & Rachel Szor (No distributor)
"Porcelain War," Brendan Bellomo & Slava Leontyev (Picturehouse)
"Soundtrack for a Cout d'Etat," Johan Grimonprez (Kino Lorber)
"Sugarcane," Julian Brave NoiseCat & Emily Kassie (Nat Geo)
"Flow" (Janus Films/Sideshow)
"Inside Out 2" (Disney/Pixar)
"Memoir of a Snail" (IFC Films)
"Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl" (Aardman/Netflix)
"The Wild Robot" (Dreamworks/Universal)
"The Brutalist," Lol Crawley
"Dune: Part Two," Greig Fraser
"Emilia Pérez," Paul Guillaume
"Maria," Edward Lachman
"Nosferatu," Jarin Blaschke
"A Complete Unknown," Arianne Phillips
"Conclave," Lisy Christl
"Gladiator II," Janty Yates
"Nosferatu," Linda Muir
"Wicked," Paul Tazewell
"Anora," Sean Baker
"The Brutalist," Dávid Jancsó
"Conclave," Nick Emerson
"Emilia Pérez," Juliette Welfling
"Wicked," Myron Kerstein
"The Brutalist," Judy Becker
"Conclave," Suzie Davies
"Dune: Part Two," Patrice Vermette
"Nosferatu," Craig Lathrop
"Wicked," Nathan Crowley
"The Brutalist," Daniel Blumberg
"Conclave," Volker Bertelmann
"Emilia Pérez," Clément Ducol & Camille
"Wicked," John Powell & Stephen Schwartz
"The Wild Robot," Kris Bowers
"Never Too Late," "Elton John: Never Too Late" (Elton John & Brandi Carlile)
"El Mal," "Emilia Pérez" (Clement Ducol, Camille & Jacques Audiard)
"Mi Camino," "Emilia Pérez" (Clement Ducol & Camille)
"Like a Bird," "Sing Sing" (Adrian Quesada & Abraham Alexander)
"The Journey," "The Six Triple Eight" (Diane Warren)
"A Complete Unknown"
"Dune: Part Two"
"Emilia Pérez"
"Wicked"
"The Wild Robot"
"Alien: Romulus"
"Better Man"
"Dune: Part Two"
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes"
"Wicked"
"A Different Man"
"Emilia Pérez"
"Nosferatu"
"The Substance"
"Wicked"
"Death by Numbers"
"I Am Ready, Warden"
"Incident"
"Instruments of a Beating Heart"
"The Only Girl in the Orchestra"
"Beautiful Men"
"In the Shadow of the Cypress"
"Magic Candies"
"Wander to Wonder"
"Yuck!"
"A Lien"
"Anuja"
"I'm Not a Robot"
"The Last Ranger"
"The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent"
Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag and see THE PICK ME UP in mag.
Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag and see KALE BEAUTY in mag.
In this month’s issue, our front and back cover story is undefeated boxer and promoter with 15 Major World Champion over 5 weightclass and entrepreneur Floyd Mayweather. We talked with him about his phenomenal career, how he approached his fights, exhibition boxing, his latest projects 1O1 supplements, and his real estate empire.
We sat down with HBO's CELTICS CITY director Lauren Stowell and Producer Gabe Honig to talk about this 9 episode docuseries which will debut on on Mar 3rd. They talk with us on how they approached covering the 75 years of the Boston Celtics as well as being a dynasty with their 18 Championships that they have won.
We also talked with Alex Donnelly, the director of ROKU's United States of Rugby which looks at growing the game in the US and specifically Major League Rugby's Chicago Hounds. We also talked with 2 of the stars from this franchise Noah Brown and Charlie Abel.
S4 of STARZ's Power Book III: Raising Kanan will drop on Mar 7th. We caught up with the cast London Brown, Hailey Kilgore, and Malcolm Mays to find out more about who they play and what we can expect from the upcoming season.
We took some time with HGTV's Married to Real Estate stars and power couple, Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson. We talk about how they got into real estate, being an agent, broker, interior design, and construction. They also talk about how they got into TV, upcoming projects, and small businesses.
During NYFW FW25 which took place early Feb, we saw a number of runway shows, presentations, and events that gave us insight to trends and aesthetics that we can look forward to later this month. We share our finds from Frederick Anderson, NYMD, FILIPINXT, and more.
We make our way to Ireland to sit down with Chef Vincent Crepel of Terre to talk about how he got into culinary, where he trained as well as what we can expect when we are coming into his restaurant.
This month's The Art of the Snack takes us to DC with Tapori which recently opened on H Street and has a menu of Indian street food and phenomenal cocktails. We chatted with restaurateur Dante Datta about this new spot.
This month's Athleisure List comes from The Class, created by Taryn Toomey and is located in Tribeca as well as in Santa Monica. In addition, we also have the Gayn Museum in Jaipur, India which has a number of stunning apparel and accessories that can be viewed via private appointment.
This month we have our 9PLAYLIST from NFL Super Bowl Champion Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles. Our 63MIX ROUTIN3S comes from Team USA Olympic Gymnast Nastia Liukin (G1,S2,B1). This month's THE 9LIST 9CH3FS comes from Chef Jeffrey Budnechky of Apocalypse BBQ, Chef PJ Calapa of Marea Beverly Hills and our THE 9LIST 9B-L-D comes from Sommelier Belinda Chang as she shares what wines she would pair with Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Read the FEB ISSUE #110 of Athleisure Mag.
Caring for a dog’s cardiovascular system is essential to pet ownership. What are the best ways to ensure your furry companion maintains a strong and healthy heart? A nutrient-rich diet and specific enhancements can work wonders for their overall well-being. Together, these two elements can create a comprehensive approach to supporting heart health and improving vitality.
Incorporating a heart supplement for dogs into their routine can significantly enhance the benefits of a balanced diet. This pairing ensures your pet’s nutritional needs are met while providing extra support for optimal heart performance. Let’s explore how these elements can harmoniously contribute to your dog’s cardiovascular wellness.
A well-rounded diet is crucial for keeping your dog’s heart in peak condition. High-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins create a foundation for long-term well-being. Choosing foods with specific nutrients that support heart function can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s vitality.
Certain ingredients, such as omega-3 fatty acids in fish and flaxseed, promote good circulation and reduce inflammation. Taurine, an amino acid in animal proteins, is critical in maintaining normal heart function. Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables protect cells from damage, further supporting the cardiovascular system. Various nutrient-dense options ensure your dog receives all the essential components needed for a healthy heart. When diet alone isn’t enough, supplements can fill the gaps.
Sometimes, a standard diet may not provide everything a dog needs for optimal heart health. Nutritional supplements can bridge the gap, offering concentrated doses of beneficial compounds that enhance the effects of a balanced diet. These enhancements work in tandem with meals to ensure comprehensive care.
Key nutrients found in supplements, such as CoQ10 and L-carnitine, help improve energy production and support heart muscle function. Vitamin E and selenium contribute to antioxidant protection, reducing oxidative stress that can affect cardiovascular health. These additions complement the natural nutrients in your dog’s food, creating a synergistic effect that promotes overall wellness. How do you know if your dog needs extra support? Watch for these signs.
Paying attention to your dog’s behavior and overall condition can provide insights into their health needs. Subtle changes often indicate the need for dietary adjustments or added nutrients to support heart function.
Here are a few signs to watch for:
● Reduced energy levels or frequent fatigue
● A coat that appears dull or lacks shine
● Difficulty maintaining a healthy weight
● Slower recovery after exercise or play
Addressing these signs promptly ensures your dog gets the support they need. Consulting with a veterinarian can help you develop a tailored plan that includes dietary adjustments and supplemental care. Natural remedies offer gentle support for heart and respiratory health.
Ensuring your dog’s health involves supporting their well-being, including respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Natural supplements designed with a blend of targeted ingredients can provide an effective and holistic solution for these needs. Products like herbal blends with respiratory and heart health support offer significant advantages for improving your dog’s quality of life.
● Promotes Respiratory Health: Formulas enriched with adaptogens and herbs can help maintain clear airways, making breathing easier for your pet.
● Cardiovascular Support: Ingredients such as mushrooms and antioxidants enhance circulation and strengthen the heart.
● Holistic Wellness: Many natural supplements provide dual-action benefits, simultaneously improving respiratory function and heart health.
● Safe and Effective: These options are free from artificial additives and rely on nature-based solutions for gentle yet impactful care.
Pairing a nutrient-rich diet with a heart supplement for dogs effectively supports their cardiovascular health. Combining thoughtful meal planning with the right enhancements ensures your dog stays vibrant and healthy. Providing this level of care contributes to a happy and active future for your beloved pet.
Preventative healthcare is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about taking proactive steps to build long-term wellness. Traditional medicine primarily focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases after they develop, but integrative medicine offers a different approach. By combining conventional medical practices with complementary therapies, integrative medicine helps individuals maintain their health, address imbalances early, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.
As more people recognize the importance of whole-body wellness, integrative medicine is gaining traction as an effective way to prevent illnesses before they arise. This patient-centered approach acknowledges that physical, emotional, and mental health are deeply connected and that long-term well-being requires a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and holistic practices.
PHOTO CREDIT | FreePik
Integrative medicine is a comprehensive approach that blends conventional treatments with complementary therapies. These can include acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal medicine, massage therapy, meditation, nutritional counseling, and exercise programs tailored to individual needs.
Unlike alternative medicine, which often replaces conventional treatments, integrative medicine works alongside traditional healthcare to create a well-rounded approach. The goal is to address the root causes of potential health issues rather than just treating symptoms. By emphasizing prevention, integrative medicine empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being.
Many healthcare providers now incorporate integrative treatments into their practice, recognizing that factors such as diet, stress management, and physical activity play a major role in preventing illness. As a result, more people are seeking out healthcare options that go beyond prescriptions and quick fixes.
Preventative care is essential for reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Many of these conditions develop gradually due to factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and unmanaged stress. Instead of waiting for symptoms to appear, preventative healthcare focuses on strengthening the body’s natural defenses to stop diseases before they take hold.
This is where integrative medicine excels. It promotes a lifestyle that fosters balance, strengthens immunity, and reduces the likelihood of long-term health complications. By addressing underlying imbalances and encouraging proactive wellness practices, integrative medicine helps people stay healthy longer.
For example, VYVE Charlotte in North Carolina] provides wellness-focused treatments that encourage long-term health. Clinics like this take a comprehensive approach to healthcare, blending medical expertise with holistic therapies to help patients maintain their well-being before major health issues arise.
The food we eat directly impacts our health. Poor nutrition is linked to a higher risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. Integrative medicine emphasizes the importance of whole, nutrient-dense foods that provide the body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to function optimally.
Instead of recommending extreme diets or restrictive eating patterns, integrative practitioners develop personalized nutrition plans. These often include:
● Anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leafy greens, and fatty fish
● Gut-friendly probiotics found in yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods
● Herbs and spices such as turmeric and ginger, which support immune function
By focusing on whole-body nourishment, integrative medicine helps reduce the risk of disease while promoting long-term vitality.
Chronic stress weakens the immune system, disrupts digestion, and increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Traditional medicine often treats stress-related symptoms with medication, but integrative healthcare takes a more holistic approach.
Stress management techniques such as:
● Meditation and mindfulness practices
● Deep breathing exercises
● Guided relaxation techniques
● Acupuncture and massage therapy
These approaches help regulate stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and improve overall emotional well-being. Managing stress is essential for preventing many chronic diseases and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Regular physical activity supports heart health, bone density, mobility, and mental well-being. However, not all exercise is suitable for everyone. Integrative medicine emphasizes movement practices that align with an individual's specific needs, whether they are recovering from an injury, managing arthritis, or simply looking to improve their fitness level.
Popular movement-based therapies in integrative medicine include:
● Yoga and tai chi for flexibility, balance, and stress relief
● Strength training to support bone density and metabolic health
● Low-impact exercises like swimming and walking for cardiovascular fitness
By tailoring physical activity to each person’s unique needs, integrative medicine ensures that movement remains a sustainable and enjoyable part of a preventative health routine.
Herbal medicine has been used for centuries to support overall health. Modern research continues to highlight the benefits of certain herbs and supplements in disease prevention. Some widely recommended options include:
● Turmeric – A powerful anti-inflammatory that supports joint and heart health
● Ashwagandha – Helps lower stress hormones and improve energy levels
● Omega-3 fatty acids – Promotes heart and brain health
● Probiotics – Supports gut balance and immune function
While supplements can play a beneficial role in preventative healthcare, integrative practitioners ensure they are used appropriately and in combination with other wellness strategies.
The body is constantly exposed to toxins from processed foods, pollution, and stress. Over time, these toxins can contribute to chronic inflammation and disease. Integrative medicine promotes natural detoxification strategies that help eliminate harmful substances and support the body's natural healing processes.
Methods of detoxification may include:
● Drinking plenty of water to flush out toxins
● Eating fiber-rich foods that support digestion
● Using infrared sauna sessions to encourage sweating and detoxification
● Lymphatic drainage massage to stimulate circulation
Gut health is another cornerstone of preventative care. A balanced gut microbiome influences digestion, immune response, and mental clarity. Maintaining gut health through diet, probiotics, and fermented foods can prevent gastrointestinal disorders and support overall wellness.
Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function, immune health, and metabolic balance. Poor sleep can lead to hormonal imbalances, increased stress levels, and a higher risk of chronic diseases. Instead of relying solely on sleep medications, integrative medicine offers natural approaches to improving sleep, such as:
● Herbal remedies like valerian root and chamomile tea
● Magnesium supplementation to promote relaxation
● Sleep hygiene practices like limiting screen time before bed
● Breathwork and meditation to improve sleep quality
Optimizing sleep patterns allows the body to repair and regenerate, further enhancing overall health.
Many patients turn to integrative medicine after struggling with conventional treatments that focus on symptom relief rather than long-term health. Common success stories include:
● Pain management without reliance on opioids through acupuncture and chiropractic care
● Improved digestive health with dietary changes and gut-supporting supplements
● Stronger immune function due to stress reduction and herbal therapies
● Better mental clarity and focus through mindfulness and balanced nutrition
These real-world benefits highlight why integrative medicine is an essential part of modern preventative healthcare.
With increasing awareness of holistic wellness, integrative medicine is gaining recognition in mainstream healthcare. Many hospitals and medical centers now incorporate complementary therapies, and insurance providers are beginning to acknowledge the value of preventative care.
Patients are also becoming more proactive about their health. Instead of waiting for illnesses to develop, they seek wellness-focused care that prioritizes prevention. This shift represents a growing recognition that long-term health requires a combination of medical expertise and lifestyle adjustments.
PHOTO CREDIT | FreePik/Stefamerpik
Integrative medicine is transforming the way people approach preventative healthcare. By focusing on nutrition, stress management, movement, and natural therapies, this approach helps individuals take control of their well-being before major health issues develop.
Preventative care is about making small, intentional choices that lead to lasting health. Whether through dietary improvements, mindfulness practices, or holistic treatments, integrative medicine provides the tools needed to maintain wellness and prevent disease. As this field continues to grow, it has the potential to redefine the future of healthcare, ensuring that more people enjoy healthier, longer lives.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Jaime Dantas
Gravel bikes arose from a specific need and, contrary to popular opinion, a gravel bike is not an artificially induced trend. There was a particularly large market for it in the United States, a country with vast forests and gravel roads.
Terrain like this is too difficult for a road bike, but it's also easy enough to ride that an MTB is unnecessary, so there was a need for a faster, more practical option.
Long trips, which are designed to be roadlike in character, generally need you to cope with brief stretches of mountain biking. The first thing that comes to mind while tackling such terrain is a cyclocross bike.
While this is the case, the geometry of these two-wheelers is not ideal for prolonged travels. After all, they were designed for quick muddy races with plenty of sharp turns, not multi-day adventures with luggage.
As is customary, people began to experiment, repairing their old road bikes, inserting bigger tires, and modifying the drivetrain. Endurance road bikes used in long-distance events began to evolve, with more and more "off-road" elements appearing on them.
The gravel bike was born out of the desire to own a bike that could handle mild terrain or modest single tracks while also being acceptable for asphalt.
If you are wondering what is unique about these bikes, well, they have a number of unique features that include:
Gravel bikes have a taller head tube, similar to those seen on endurance road cycles, and slacker angles than cyclocross bikes, making them comfortable on long journeys and even appropriate for ultramarathons and spending many hours in the seat.
Another distinguishing aspect of dirt bikes over road bikes or CXs is their low bottom bracket. This treatment allows the bike to perform well at high speeds over difficult terrain. When combined with extended rear forks, which provide a longer wheelbase, you get reliable, predictable steering and stability, even while carrying heavy luggage.
These features make gravel bikes ideal for journeys when you can't predict exactly what type of terrain you will discover or when you are prepared to ride on more than just tarmac.
Gravel bikes have plenty of mounting points. Fender and rack mounting positions are normal in most bikes but gravel bikes have more. There are generally three bottle mounts—two in the main triangle of the frame and one beneath the down tube.
This point becomes extremely valuable if you know you won't be able to find a water source for the next 100 kilometers.
Forks termed "utility forks" are becoming popular in most of gravel bikes. In addition to being excellent places for racks and fenders, they also offer a three-boss arrangement for bottle cages on one side, allowing you to mount extras like a cage and carry additional luggage.
To see gravel bikes with plenty of mounting points that you can take advantage of, follow this link obedbikes.com.
Disc brakes are standard in gravel cycling. They give adequate braking power for more challenging terrain and for carrying an additional weight in your bike packing packs.
Some people prefer mechanical models for long expeditions because they are easier to maintain, but if you are not going on an around-the-world adventure or to a completely remote area, hydraulic disc brakes are a great choice, and they are common in most gravel bikes.
These brakes give far higher modulation and braking power, and their failure rate is extremely low.
Gravel bike wheels come in two sizes: 650b and 700c, with the latter being more common. 650b wheels have a slightly smaller diameter and you can fit them with even wider tires for increased grip, while maintaining a rolling diameter equivalent to a road bike for comparable gearing and ride experience.
While this is the case, most gravel bikes are fitted with 700c wheels and tires as standard..
Gearing is essential when it comes to gravel bike setup. If you're going off-road, you'll need lower gears to handle steep climbs and more difficult terrain. With less traction on loose surfaces, you can't simply get out of the saddle when climbing, so you have to spin up the gradient to avoid wheel slip.
The majority of gravel bikes now feature gravel-specific gearing that you can take advantage of.
The main option is between a 1x (with a single chainring in the front) and a 2x arrangement (with two chainrings on a double crankset).
Super-compact chainsets are now standard on two-piece gravel cranksets. Dropping the chainring sizes to 48/31t or 46/30t, gravel groupset, and matching this with at least an 11-32t or 11-34t cassette, makes difficult climbs possible.
Appropriate gearing is essential if you intend to ride your gravel bike off-road on steep or technical terrain. For the best outcome you should be ultra-cautious and remember that its always wise to have a bail-out gear that you never use rather than using the lowest gear all the time, especially if your bike is heavy with bikepacking bags.
For riding gravel, single-ring groupsets are a great option to go with.
A simpler design with fewer potential problems is achieved by eliminating the front derailleur and use a single chainring. Although the most recent 12-speed groupsets have lessened this problem, you still get as much range as a double chainset, if not more, with slightly wider leaps between gears on the cassette.
Along with a clutched rear derailleur, the chainring's alternating wide and narrow teeth help to keep the chain in place and smooth over uneven terrain.
If you were wondering what makes gravel bikes unique, now you know a gravel bike can traverse a vast array of terrains since it is sturdy, practical, and efficient.
In addition to performing well on the road, it will make an excellent companion on a lengthy woodland excursion. It can even be your preferred two-wheeler for commuting to work or shopping.
Remember that for you to get the best results from your bike, you need to use it properly. This calls for you to ride the right size of bike. You also should always ride in the right gear.
Products That Keep Wellness Enthusiasts Coming Back For More
Wellness is more than just a trend; it's a lifestyle that continues to shape how we approach overall well-being. With an increasing focus on natural, holistic products, more and more individuals are turning to innovative wellness solutions to maintain balance and vitality in their daily lives. As the market expands, certain products stand out for their consistent quality, effectiveness, and ability to create lasting benefits. This blog post will explore the key products that have earned a dedicated following among wellness enthusiasts and why they remain popular for maintaining improved well-being.
Energy-boosting bars are specially formulated snacks designed to provide a quick, sustained energy release, making them popular for active individuals and wellness enthusiasts. These bars typically contain a blend of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins, which fuel the body and maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Common ingredients include oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, which help stabilize blood sugar. Some bars may also include added vitamins, minerals, or superfoods to enhance their nutritional value. Perfect for pre-workout snacks, mid-day energy boosts, or a quick breakfast, these bars offer convenience without sacrificing health benefits.
Magnesium sprays are a convenient way to absorb magnesium directly through the skin. These sprays typically contain magnesium chloride, a highly absorbable form of magnesium, combined with water and essential oils. Applying magnesium oil to the skin allows it to bypass the digestive system, providing quicker absorption into the bloodstream.
Magnesium plays a vital role in muscle function and energy production, which is why magnesium oils are popular. The benefits of magnesium oils are many, and they may be quite effective, especially for those who struggle with magnesium deficiency due to diet or other health conditions.
PHOTO CREDIT | FreePik/Drobotdean
Pre-workout supplements are specifically formulated to enhance physical performance during exercise. They typically contain a blend of ingredients designed to boost energy, focus, endurance, and strength. Common ingredients include caffeine, which increases alertness and reduces fatigue; creatine, which helps improve strength and power output; and beta-alanine, which helps buffer lactic acid buildup, reducing muscle fatigue.
Many also include BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) for muscle recovery and nitric oxide boosters to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles. It’s important, however, to carefully choose pre-workouts based on your fitness goals and consider any personal sensitivities to ingredients like caffeine.
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular tap water, typically ranging from 8 to 9.5. It is often touted for its potential health benefits, particularly its ability to neutralize acidity in the body. Many people turn to alkaline water to help balance the body’s pH, improve hydration, and boost overall wellness.
Some believe it can aid in detoxification, enhance energy levels, and support better digestion. While some studies show promising results, further research is needed for definitive claims.
THC-infused vape pens are portable devices designed to deliver tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) through inhalation, offering a quick and discreet way to experience the effects of cannabis. These pens contain THC oil, which is vaporized when heated.
Users may experience effects that vary depending on individual tolerance and strain. Besides, their convenience makes them popular for those seeking a controlled and easy-to-use option. Well, then, if you’re interested in joining the hype these products have created so far, you may want to explore https://trehouse.com/collections/thc-vape-pens/.
Detoxifying charcoal masks are skincare products designed to draw out impurities, toxins, and excess oils from the skin. Activated charcoal, the key ingredient, has excellent absorbent properties that bind to dirt, bacteria, and other environmental pollutants that clog pores.
When applied to the skin, these masks help to deep-cleanse, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and purified. Charcoal masks are often recommended for oily or acne-prone skin, as they help reduce shine and prevent breakouts by cleansing deep into the pores. Additionally, they promote a brighter complexion by removing dead skin cells and stimulating circulation.
Flaxseed crackers are a nutritious, crunchy snack made primarily from ground flaxseeds. They are often combined with other ingredients like herbs, spices, and seeds for added flavor and texture. These crackers are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a popular choice for those looking to boost their heart, digestive, and overall well-being.
These are known for their high lignan content, which may support hormonal balance and help reduce inflammation. The crackers are typically gluten-free, making them suitable for people with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet. With their savory flavor and satisfying crunch, they definitely serve as a healthy alternative to traditional processed snacks and can be enjoyed with customized pairings.
PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Zinkevych
Enthusiasts are drawn back to wellness products for various reasons, but a few key factors stand out. First, these products offer noticeable benefits, from improved energy levels to enhanced digestion, creating lasting positive experiences. Many of these products also cater to specific needs, making them integral to an individual’s lifestyle.
Additionally, as the wellness community continues to grow, word-of-mouth recommendations and social media influence play a significant role in driving repeat use. Finally, the emotional connection with brands that align with personal values also contributes to the return factor. These elements combine to create a cycle of continued use and preference.
Wellness products continue to captivate enthusiasts because they offer more than just benefits—they become integral parts of a healthier lifestyle. From energy-boosting snacks to calming skincare and innovative supplements, these products may cater to various needs and help maintain balance in everyday life. Their convenience, effectiveness, and ability to foster positive change keep enthusiasts returning repeatedly. Whether it’s improving hydration, enhancing performance, or achieving radiant skin, the right products may make all the difference. And yes, as the wellness trend evolves, it’s clear that these products aren’t just passing fads—they’re here to stay, helping people improve their overall well-being.
PHOTO CREDITS | Disney/Anne Marie Fox
PHOTO CREDIT | ABC/The Bachelor Key Art
PHOTO CREDIT FOR THE BACHELOR CONTESTANTS | Disney/Matt Sayles
We left Madrid and now we’ve moved onto Edinburgh, Scotland for this week’s ABC’s The Bachelor. We see the women walking around the city and taking in the culture and we know this one is key since Hometowns are next week!
We also catch up with Grant Ellis and Jesse Palmer playing golf and chatting with one another. Jesse meets up with the women to let them know that this week is key and that there will be no roses on the dates, but there will be 2 1-on-1 dates during the week. We learn that Julianna is getting the first 1-on-1 date.
Their date takes them away on a helicopter - the other women see them lift off. They arrive at their castle for the day. Upon entering the castle, they meet a stylist who allows them to select a look for an activity that they will enjoy later on. After a selecting a formal outfit, they walk into a ballroom where a quartet plays for them and they are joined by others dancing.
Back with the rest of the women, the next date card arrives. Sarafiena, Alexe. Carolina, Dina, and Zoe are all on the group date together. Litia receives the 1-on-1. Zoe is bummed that she is the only person who has not gotten the 1-on-1. Zoe is sad and opts to go to bed, but Carolina of course is always the wet blanket of the group.
Back on Julianna’s and Grant’s date, they are having dinner together and getting to know one another a lot more. They connect on a series of similarities and we can tell that Julianna is a shoe in to go to Hometowns.
At the group date, they take in the culture of dancing, eating food of the region, and more. Carolina in her confessional says that dating as a group sucks and she doesn’t recomment it and that she will try to stay lowkey - I don’t see it. They begin to play games and to have a good time. Carolina of course goes back to pulling him away from everyone by refusing to play and interact with everyone else. The rest of the women on the date are ariing their grievances with one another about how Carolina operates and steals Grant at every turn. He was gone for the rest of the day. Now, the group date is in the second portion of the date. He lets them know he has fun, but the other women feel that their time was taken and they couldn’t share more about themselves.
The women let you Carolina know that stealing him throughout the date was rude and they can’t understand why she continues to pout and look like a damsel in distress. Dina also tells Grant that Carolina is a lot and he needs to think about whether he is really a match for her. Although he has heard this for weeks, he values Dina’s opinion and feels that there is more credability to what he has been hearing.
His date with Litia takes him around the town and you can see how easy it is with her. We’ve always like her for him and it’ll be interesting to see who will get the roses tonight as there have generally been good dates this week. We know that there will be more conversation between the 2 of them at dinner. She lets him know that she is Mormon and he listens to her and you can see their mutual connection.
The women arrive to find out whether they will move onto Hometowns. Carolina asks to talk with Dina before the ceremony starts. Carolina lets her know that she cares about her and recognizes how Dina stood up for her. Thankfully they get back downstairs in time for the ceremony.
RECEIVED A ROSE | Dina, Litia, Julianna, and Zoe.
DIDN’T RECEIVE A ROSE | Alexe, Carolina, Sarafiena
Each night during this season, we will tweet about The Golden 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!
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
We always love when we get the chance to chat with 5X World Champion World Surf League Women's World Tour and the 1st ever Team USA Surfing Gold Medalist in shortboard at the 2020 Summer Olympics - Carissa Moore! We had the pleasure of having her as our cover for our FEB ISSUE #86 and we're glad to have her as this month's cover as she is someone who is not only a talented athlete, but she is someone who cares about her legacy in and out of the sport as well as giving back to others. In addition, she is navigating a new chapter in her journey, being a mother! We talk about this part of her life, what it looks, like and what she'll do next!
ATHLEIURE MAG: We've had the pleasure of having you as our cover in Feb '23 and we interviewed you again later that year! So it's always a pleasure to chat with you. You're in a great period of your life as you are expecting a child! What were the thoughts and decisions that you grappled with as you looked at stepping back from competition?
CARISSA MOORE: The decision to step back from competition wasn’t one that was taken lightly. It weighed on my heart for several years, but it took me awhile to find the courage to take the leap. Competitive surfing has been a huge part of my identity and drive for most of my life so just dealing with the unknown of what’s on the other side and the fears and anxiety that comes with that was something that took some time to process and work through. I eventually got to a point where the fear of staying the same far outweighed the fear of failure and what other people would think. I know in my heart it was time to pivot and to step outside of my comfort zone. This last year has really challenged me physically, mentally, and emotionally but as hard as it has been at times, it feels good to be pushed to evolve in different ways. There was also the importance of starting a family and the stress of tour life for so many years that factored into my decision at this time. I needed a break to recharge and also give myself the space and grace to prioritize my family.
AM: What does this next chapter look like for you?
CM: It’s pretty cool because as much as this next chapter is up in the air and a little scary, it’s also so exciting because there are so many possibilities. There is a dream to maybe come back to competitive surfing when I’m healthy and ready, but I also don’t want to put any pressure on myself. It just feels like there is a little left undone for me in that space especially as a mom. I am super passionate about helping young girls and women thrive through my charitable foundation, Moore Aloha. Our mission is to support females as they navigate the waves of mental health and wellness by educating, empowering and inspiring through sport, mentorship and culture. Our events and programs have really blossomed into something special and super meaningful so I would like to continue to pour my heart into that and see where it goes. I’d love to get better at public speaking, maybe do a TedTalk and write a book one day. But honestly, just working on being the best wife, mom, athlete, human I can be.
AM: I know that family is so important to you and now that you will be bringing a little one into the mix, what are you looking forward to?
CM: I am just looking forward to doing life with our little. All the things, walks with the dogs, days at the beach, adventures around the world... I'm looking forward to seeing the world through her eyes and being bewildered by the magic around me all over again.
AM: In terms of surfing, we've seen you on the waves as a mama-to-be! How important is surfing to you in this transitional to enjoy what you love?
CM: Surfing has kept me sane during this time. Being pregnant is beautiful and miraculous but a massive transformation in all aspects. The changes have been so dramatic over such a short period of time that being on a board has helped me feel like myself while losing myself if that makes sense. Surfing has been a source of peace, comfort, joy through so many different phases and transitions in life. Even though my wave riding looks very different at the moment, just being able to stand up, glide across a wall of water, feel the sun and salt water on my skin, is so refreshing and makes me so happy. Happy mama = happy baby!
AM: How has surfing been for you as you enjoy it without focusing on competing while you prepare for motherhood?
CM: It’s been weird to be honest. I’ve had to fall in love with surfing in a whole new way. I’ve always found joy in the challenge of working on something every time I paddled out or pursuing the next goal in competition. For the first time, kind of ever, I can’t do what I used to so I have been going surfing to just ride waves because it makes me feel good. There is no agenda. No feedback from a coach. No pressure! I’m so used to doing, creating, going, going, going. This pregnancy has forced me to slow down and look at things differently. Take a different pace and know it’s okay. This isn’t forever and to embrace this season I am in. I think it’s super important to be present for my daughter, for her to feel calm and at peace coming into this world.
AM: How has it been balancing work, life, and your passion for this next chapter?
CM: It’s been fun to pursue other passions like my charitable foundation Moore Aloha, spend quality time with family and friends, settle into a home routine and get creative on ways I can use my skills and talents to remain and involved. Grateful to have a super supportive husband and great village to help me navigate this time and redefine a new balance.
AM: What have you learned about yourself in this stage of your life?
CM: Oh man, that is loaded question. I have learned so much at every stage. It feels like every other week I have had to face a different part of me, process it and move through it. I still struggle with self-worth. I’m working on it. Time away from competition and outside validation has forced me to really value myself. I’m learning to love my body. I look back at pictures from before I was pregnant, when I thought I was ‘big’ and I’m like, “Damn, I look strong and lean! What was I thinking being so hard on myself?” It has been a challenge to love my reflection as I grow and gain weight but I’m changing that inner dialogue and doing a better job of appreciating what my body is able to do. I am making a human! How cool?! I also realize that I have a lot of fear around the unknown. Learning to let go and trust. Trust my body, trust the timing, trust that it’s all going to be okay. I like being in control and stress too much over the things I can’t. It’s been a great time for self-reflection and evaluating who I want to be for my daughter. What kind of relationship do I want to have with her? What kind of role model do I want to be? What environment do I want her to grow up in? Becoming someone’s mom has given me the extra motivation to look at my weaknesses and do the work to be the best I can be for her.
AM: Do you plan on returning to competitions in the future?
CM: Maybe… we will see. Like I said, don’t want to put any pressure on it, but it’s not out of the question!
IG @rissmoore10
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Red Bull Photo Pool - FRONT COVER Domenic Mosqueira /PG 16 +24 Ryan Miller/PG 18 Trevor Moran/PG 22 Jeremiah Klein/PG 26 + BACK COVER Zac Noyle | PG 21 Hurley |
Read the JAN ISSUE #109 of Athleisure Mag and see SURFING THE NEXT CHAPTER | Carissa Moore in mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Fabian Mardi
Although we are eagerly looking forward to the beginning of Spring, you can still think about Winter escapes that will allow you to get in your favorite snow sports! Although there are a number of great options here in the US such as in Aspen, Stowe, or Jackson Hole, sometimes you want to stamp your passport and to take a bit of a journey. When it comes to any vacation, we think about where we are staying, how close it is to activities and what we will eat while we’re there!
Niseko is a world famous Asian ski destination with powdery snow located in Japan. It’s worth noting that this is a year around destination and is just as fabulous to enjoy during the Summer as well. Located in the northern island prefecture of Hokkaido which is 2 hours awar from Sapporo, the largest city in this prefecture, it is known for its agriculture and is noted for having the cleanest rivers in Japan. Coming here is taking a step outside of time as life runs slower here and you can truly embrace nature as it is intended to be. The best way to enjoy it (in addition to whether you snowboard, ski, or do snow shoe trapping is to literally spend your days in the middle of it all with the perfect stay. Without a doubt, the ski chalets in Niseko, Japan is a perfect way to embrace a Winter wonderland!
Whether you’re going on a solo experience, with a significant other, or a group trip you’ll enjoy luxurious amenities and charm. You’ll love that you have plenty of space, fully-fitted kitchens, and epic panoramic windows so you can take in everything around you. Having this much space allows you to play some board games, do a bit of yoga on your favorite streamed platform, watching movies, and even cooking amazing meals. End your nights with a roaring fireplace to relax and of course you have a private onsen to relax your muscles after a day of hitting the slopes! You’ll find that a number of the chalets offered at the link above have ski-in/ski-out access which is convenient and you don’t lose a second of being able to access the slopes. There are heated boot rooms, private balconies, and an entertainment system that is state-of-the-art. The fact that you have an entire home to yourself is definitely an upgrade from a hotel room where you may have amenities, but the common areas are communal. The privacy of everyone in your group being together without having to interact with others is a major reason why we love the option of having a chalet.
We’re all about personalizing your experience! Whether that means bringing in a private chef or having people come in for other services, these are things that you can tailor when you are working with Villa Finder to ensure that your trip is everything that you want it to be. With a number of chalets within their portfolio, there is bound to be the perfect fit.
As we mentioned at the beginning of this post, the Winter is coming to an end in a few weeks, but the ski season in Niseko runs from Dec - May - so there is stull time. The Winter ski season can be broken down into sub-seasons that cover a 5 month period. The Early Season runs from Dec 3rd - Dec 20th. This time of year tends not to be too crowded and generally they have plenty of powder even at the start of the season! You may find that there are limited skiing opportunities on unmarked or ungroomed trails. You can enjoy night skiing in mid Dec. Temperatures on average 26.6°F (-3°C). High Season runs from Dec 21st - mid February. The snow is great during this time with a lot of dry powder and night skiing during this time is truly an experience! This is the holiday season so Christmas New Year and Chinese New Year can definitely have an impact on rates and availability - so book in advance. Although this is the coldest portion of the season, this is where the most snow will take place. The temperature in the village is usually between 28.4°F (-2°C) and 12.2°F (-11°C), whereas, at the peak it can get as cold as 5°F (-15°C) to -13°F (-25°C). Mid Season runs from Feb to early Mar. You’ll enjoy continued fresh powder and there are more sunny days in this period. The storms are a bit unpredictable during this time. This is another period that you want to book in advance. It’s a great time to enjoy fresh snowfall while also having backcountry hiking options! The average temperature is expected to remain between 23°F (-5°C) and 14°F (-10°C). There are less people that come during this time, so you don’t have to worry about crowds. Late Season runs from April to May 5th. There is plenty of snow base, no crowds, and lodging is plentiful. A number of the restaurants and shops have begun to shut down. Skiing becomes limited due to Niseko Village and Hanazono ski resorts being shut down during this period. The complimentary shuttle is no longer available at this time as it shuts down in Feb - you will need to arrange your own way to the ski lifts. The village usually experiences temperatures of around 39.2°F (4°C).
PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Lezgin Epik
Proposing is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and what better way to make it unforgettable than on a private yacht cruise along the stunning Bosphorus? With breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline, the gentle waves beneath you, and a sky painted with hues of sunset, a yacht offers the perfect setting for a magical proposal. But a dream proposal doesn’t happen by chance—it takes careful planning.
This guide will walk you through every detail, from choosing the right time and decorations to adding special touches that will make your proposal truly one of a kind. Whether you envision an intimate moment under the stars or a grand declaration at sunset, here’s how to make it perfect.
Lotus Yat at https://www.lotusyat.com/tr/yatta-evlilik-teklifi/ offers a variety of yacht options designed for special occasions, making it easier to find the ideal setting for your big moment. Once you have a yacht in mind, the next step is to customize the experience to reflect your love story.
Timing is everything when it comes to proposals. The Bosphorus provides stunning scenery at any hour, but certain times of the day add an extra layer of romance.
Sunset Magic: The golden hour before sunset creates an enchanting atmosphere with warm colors reflecting on the water. This is one of the most popular times for proposals.
Under the Stars: A night cruise offers an intimate setting with the city lights shimmering in the background. If you want a private and dreamy moment, this is the way to go. To make the moment even more magical, Lotus Yat offers a breathtaking laser show under the Bosphorus Bridge, where your marriage proposal message can be projected across the night sky. This unique touch adds a grand, cinematic feel to the occasion, making it unforgettable.
Morning Serenity: If you prefer a quiet and peaceful experience, a sunrise or early morning cruise can be incredibly romantic, with fewer boats on the water and a fresh, crisp breeze.
Think about your partner’s personality. Do they love grand gestures, or would they prefer a more private setting? Choosing the right moment sets the tone for the proposal. Whether it’s the golden hues of sunset, the quiet beauty of dawn, or a dazzling light display over the bridge, Lotus Yat ensures your proposal is as magical as your love story.
PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Rahmi Aksöz
Not all yachts are the same, and choosing the right one can make all the difference. Consider the following factors:
Size and Privacy: Do you want a small, cozy yacht for just the two of you, or a larger one for a few close friends or family?
Luxury Features: Some yachts come with a deck lounge, candlelit dining setups, or even live music to enhance the experience.
Weather Considerations: Ensure the yacht has indoor space in case of unexpected weather changes.
Many yacht services offer customizable packages that include decorations, catering, and entertainment. It’s worth exploring these options to create a stress-free experience.
The right décor can elevate your proposal from beautiful to breathtaking. Since the yacht itself already offers a stunning backdrop, you don’t need to go overboard with decorations—just enough to enhance the romantic mood.
Floral Arrangements: A bouquet of your partner’s favorite flowers or a floral arch can add a romantic touch.
Candles & Fairy Lights: Soft lighting creates an intimate atmosphere, especially for an evening proposal.
Personalized Details: Consider adding framed photos of your relationship journey or custom signage with a heartfelt message.
Music Selection: A live violinist, saxophonist, or a curated playlist of meaningful songs can add to the ambiance.
These details create a warm and personal setting that makes the moment feel extra special.
A successful proposal isn’t just about asking the big question—it’s about creating an experience that feels natural and emotional. Here’s how to ensure it flows perfectly:
Decide on the Setup: Will you go down on one knee as the yacht sails under the Bosphorus Bridge, or do you want the crew to surprise your partner with a special reveal?
Have a Lead-Up Story: If your partner is naturally curious, come up with a believable reason for the yacht trip so they don’t suspect anything.
Prepare Your Speech: You don’t need to memorize a script, but having a few meaningful words ready will help you stay calm and express your emotions.
Coordinate with the Crew: Most yacht services are experienced in helping with proposals, so communicate your plans in advance. They can assist with timing, music, and even capturing the moment.
Capture the Memory: Consider hiring a photographer or videographer to discreetly document the proposal. If you prefer a more private moment, a GoPro or hidden camera setup can also work.
Little details can turn a great proposal into a truly unforgettable one. Consider incorporating:
A Message in a Bottle: Write a heartfelt letter and have it "discovered" on the yacht before you propose.
A Custom Dessert: Arrange for a cake or dessert with "Will You Marry Me?" written on it.
Champagne Toast: Celebrate the "yes" with a chilled bottle of champagne and a toast to your future together.
These elements add a personal touch and make the proposal feel like it was tailored just for your love story.
Even the most confident person can feel nervous before proposing. Here are a few ways to keep your cool:
Take Deep Breaths: Deep breathing can help calm your nerves and keep you focused.
Remember the Why: Focus on the love you share rather than the pressure of the moment.
Go with the Flow: If something doesn’t go exactly as planned, don’t stress. It’s the emotion behind the proposal that truly matters.
Your partner will remember the love and effort you put into this special moment more than any tiny mishap.
After the “yes,” make the most of your time on the yacht to celebrate. You might want to:
Enjoy a Romantic Dinner: Many yacht cruises offer gourmet dining with a personalized menu.
Have a First Dance: Play your favorite song and share a moment dancing under the stars.
Call Loved Ones: If you’ve kept the proposal a secret, you might want to FaceTime family and friends to share the excitement.
Soak in the Moment: There’s no rush—take your time enjoying the view and each other’s company.
A proposal is just the beginning of a new journey together, so make the celebration last.
Proposing on a Bosphorus yacht cruise is an experience unlike any other—romantic, intimate, and breathtakingly beautiful. With careful planning and thoughtful details, you can create a moment that feels just right for you and your partner.
The key is to personalize the proposal, keep the focus on your love story, and embrace the emotions of the moment. Whether it’s a grand gesture or a quiet, heartfelt question under the stars, the most important thing is that it feels genuine.
So, take a deep breath, enjoy the journey, and get ready for the start of your next chapter together.
PHOTO CREDIT | Netflix/Screen Actors Guild Awards
Tonight, the winner for the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards were announced as we continue through the next few weeks of Awards Season! The show took place on Sunday, February 23rd and streamed on Netflix. Our predictions are in bold, the ones we correctly identified as winners are in bold italics and winners that we didn’t predict are in italics.
“A Complete Unknown”
“Anora”
“Conclave”
“Emilia Pérez”
“Wicked”
Adrien Brody, “The Brutalist”
Timothée Chalamet, “A Complete Unknown”
Daniel Craig, “Queer”
Colman Domingo, “Sing Sing”
Ralph Fiennes, “Conclave”
Pamela Anderson, “The Last Showgirl”
Cynthia Erivo, “Wicked”
Karla Sofía Gascón, “Emilia Pérez”
Mikey Madison, “Anora”
Demi Moore, “The Substance”
Jonathan Bailey, “Wicked”
Yura Borisov, “Anora”
Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain”
Edward Norton, “A Complete Unknown”
Jeremy Strong, “The Apprentice.”
Monica Barbaro, “A Complete Unknown”
Jamie Lee Curtis, “The Last Showgirl”
Danielle Deadwyler, “The Piano Lesson”
Ariana Grande, “Wicked”
Zoe Saldaña, “Emilia Pérez”
“Deadpool & Wolverine”
“Dune: Part Two”
“The Fall Guy”
“Gladiator II”
“Wicked”
“Bridgerton”
“The Day of the Jackal”
“The Diplomat”
“Shōgun”
“Slow Horses”
“Abbott Elementary”
“The Bear”
“Hacks”
“Only Murders in the Building”
“Shrinking”
Tadanobu Asano, “Shōgun”
Jeff Bridges, “The Old Man”
Gary Oldman, “Slow Horses”
Eddie Redmayne, “The Day of the Jackal”
Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shōgun”
Kathy Bates, “Matlock”
Nicola Coughlin, “Bridgerton”
Allison Janney, “The Diplomat”
Keri Russell, “The Diplomat”
Anna Sawai, “Shōgun”
Adam Brody, “Nobody Wants This”
Ted Danson, “A Man on the Inside”
Harrison Ford, “Shrinking”
Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building”
Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear”
Kristen Bell, “Nobody Wants This”
Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary”
Liza Colón-Zayas, “The Bear”
Ayo Edebiri, “The Bear”
Jean Smart, “Hacks”
Javier Bardem, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”
Colin Farrell, “The Penguin”
Richard Gadd, “Baby Reindeer”
Kevin Kline, “Disclaimer”
Andrew Scott, “Ripley”
Kathy Bates, “The Great Lillian Hall”
Cate Blanchett, “Disclaimer”
Jodie Foster, “True Detective: Night Country”;
Lily Gladstone, “Under the Bridge”
Jessica Gunning, “Baby Reindeer”
Cristin Milioti, “The Penguin”
“The Boys”
“Fallout”
“House of the Dragon”
“The Penguin”
“Shōgun”
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
Who doesn't love an epic pastry and when you're in NYC, James Beard winner Chef Dominique Ansel is known for making pastry moments with being the creator of the Cronut, Cookie Shots, DKA, and Frozen S'mores to name a few at Dominique Ansel Bakery. You can also continue to enjoy his artistry at Dominique Ansel Workshop, Dominique Ansel Las Vegas in Caesars Palace and Dominique Ansel Marché in Paris Vegas. He is known for creating magical moments in each bite.
We had the pleasure of attending an editor's event to see him make memorable breakfast bites in partnership with Honey Bunches of Oats Chocolate Cereal that was perfectly decadent as we navigate the Winter season. We also sat down with him to talk about how he came to the world of pastry, his creative process, and more!
ATHLEISURE MAG: We’ve wanted to chat with you for a number of years for Athleisure Mag so it was such a pleasure to taste your treats and creations at today’s event! I’m sure my trainer is not going to like it ha!
CHEF DOMINIQUE ANSEL: Ha, don’t blame it on me!
AM: I’m not going to blame it on you! I was the person who ate everything haha!
When did you first fall in love with pastry and when did you realize that you wanted to be a pastry chef?
CHEF DA: That’s a good question. I was not expecting this question. So, you know, when I left school I was barely 16. My parents couldn't afford – I lived in a project, my parents couldn't afford to send me to school. So, early on, I decided to get a job to help the family, like to provide for food. So I didn't know what I really want to do. My mom was a terrible cook. She was so bad and my grandma was good. My mom was horrible and oftentimes like, I will end up in the kitchen trying to save dinner. I'll try to put something together so you can eat something not fancy at all, but just edible!
AM: Right!
CHEF DA: When I was that age, I was like, maybe I'll work in the kitchen. Maybe I'll be a chef. I'll try. And I found like a school that was free that welcomed me and I was doing an apprenticeship. So I would work in a restaurant for 3 weeks and go to school for a week, every month, it will be like this. So at first, I was a chef, a savory chef for 2 years. And you know, I love cooking. I love it today as much as I love baking. I don't do it as much, but I do baking for a living. When I was cooking, I would often do the desserts. So that was the only time where I'd pull a recipe, I'd read the recipe, and make this pastry. I remember it was like a Walnut Cake, very simple but really good. I would make this Walnut Cake and every time I'd make it, it was coming out perfect because I'm scaling and measuring everything.
AM: Right, yeah.
CHEF DA: I love that! I love the science behind it. I love the precision, I love the details and I love the fact that, you know, you could be creative with pastry. You can take like, raw ingredients, like sugar, flour, butter, and build that beautiful showpiece like chocolate. You can’t do this with cooking. Cooking is more intuitive. Cooking is more intimate and it’s about knowing the ingredients.
AM: Yeah.
CHEF DA: It’s about how to season them like if they are ripe or not.
AM: Yeah.
CHEF DA: It's a lot different. It’s different skills but I fell in love with baking then and I was like I'm gonna do a 3rd year of the apprenticeship. I'm gonna do it with baking so I did that and you know, I've been baking since then. It's been like 30 years.
AM: I mean that's so fantastic. And to learn that your initial culinary training was in a free program like that's that's amazing.
So how did you make that jump to being at Daniel which is amazing.
CHEF DA: So while I was in France, after my apprenticeship and completing my military service, I bought a small car and I drove to Paris because my boss at the time, talked about Paris every day. I was like, I need to go there. I'm gonna go to the capital. I need to work with the best and I eventually found a job there which led me to another job, and I eventually got the job at Fauchon (Editor’s Note: Fauchon is a legendary French Pastry shop), which was the leader in terms of products imported from all over the world, from spices, oils, like anything you name it – fruits and vegetables, like anything that they all came in that was exotic from all over the world. The pastry department was huge. It was a time where it was growing very fast and I was a hired as one of the pastry cooks there.
I worked there for 8 years. I was supposed to stay for 4 months. I stayed there for 8 years.
AM: Wow.
CHEF DA: In 2006, Daniel Boulud was looking for a pastry chef, so he called me, I was in Paris at the time and I was in charge of the International Development of the brand. So I was traveling a lot and he asked me if I wanted to come to New York to, you know, for the Pastry Chef job. I really didn't want to go back to a restaurant but it took me half a second to say okay, let's try.
I came to Daniel here in New York in 2006 with two suitcases. I folded everything back in France. I left everything. And I came with 2 suitcases, slept on a couch for like, 3 months – I didn’t have time to buy a bed!
AM: Right.
CHEF DA: I worked at Daniel for 6 years as the Executive Pastry Chef there and it was amazing years. Of course, in 2011, I decided to jump on my own and to take the next step and start my business.
AM: Why did you want to do that?
CHEF DA: Why? I always knew. I knew from when I was young that I want to be an entrepreneur, I want to own my own business. I want to do my own thing. I like the challenge of multitasking and wearing different hats. I like the challenge of making beautiful food but also like the business side. Having the interaction with the guests and knowing how to express yourself. It's all these like, things combined together, makes it very exciting to me.
AM: I mean, you have created some amazing pastry moments. I mean, the Cronut, which, I remember going in many times trying to get one and it was gone. I was just like argh foiled again!
CHEF DA: Haha I’m sorry!
AM: Then your Cookie Shot comes out and it’s another craze around that.
What does it mean to you that you've created like these little niches that are always going to be etched like you know, in the culinary world.
CHED DA: You know, it's overwhelmingly humbling. When I look back sometimes I'm like, I don't realize how much of an impact I left within the pastry world. I'm still walking around and I don't take it for granted. One of the best moments for me was When I was in Japan, we had a shop there. We were selling the Frozen S’mores which is our small version of the ice cream version of a s’mores.
AM: Yep.
CHEF DA: We were selling up to a 1,000 a day.
AM: Wow!
CHEF DA: 1000 a day! We couldn't keep up like we were making them and we were always selling. I stepped back for a second. I was like, this is amazing. I grew up in France. I learned my job in France. I came to America in 2006, barely knowing what a s’mores was.
AM: Yeah.
CHEF DA: Or what the tradition, or the meaning of it was.
AM: Yeah.
CHEF DA: Like I loved it so much that I embraced the culture, the American culture, the fact that people were coming together around the campfire, and friends, and family, and sharing this moment in time, where something as simple as the s’mores had so much signification for people and meaning of like getting together.
I took this as let's do something fun with it. Let's do something different. So of course we're having ice cream. that is surrounded by the honey marshmallow and chocolate wafer with crispy wafer and a little sea salt and we torch it in front of people. And that was really enjoyed by the Japanese people. People were mind blown and they were like, what is this? It’s portable. It's small. It's torched and finished in front of you. It's chewy. It's like crunchy. It's like not too sweet. It's like it's so much fun. It's ice cream inside. They love, love loved this so much that s’mores became a trend in Japan right after we opened our shop there. I took a step back I'm like, “my God. I'm a French man who lived in France, came to America when I was in my late 20s, and I managed to bring something so cultural from our country to another.” I feel very fortunate to have a chance to express myself through that and to cross cultures together and it's, it's amazing. It's a once in a lifetime.
AM: Oh 100% I mean, s'mores are serious business! I'm from the Midwest and we are serious about our s'mores and our bourbon –
CHEF DA: And bourbon!
AM: And Bourbon for those that want that adult version!
So how did this partnership come up with you and the Honey Bunches of Oats and Chocolate? That is just so fun to see and to taste that pairing today!
CHEF DA: Well, you know, they reached out asking me if we want to do something together and I think that is a natural connection and extension. It's a natural extension of what we do.
AM: Yeah.
CHEF DA: It's sweets, pastry, it's, you know, breakfasty.
AM: Yep.
CHEF DA: It's just a natural connection and creating something new and fun with Honey Bunches of Oats and especially launching thei chocolate flavor. I mean, it's like exciting for me and something fun that we did together.
AM: I mean, the French Fries. I love that. I mean, I love potatoes.
CHEF DA: I mean, isn’t it every kids dream for breakfast?
AM: I could definitely enjoy having this.
Will you do anything else with them?
CHEF DA: We're just doing this event today. We're not playing to do anything else - yet.
AM: Your latest cookbook is Everyone Can Bake. Why did you want to do that?
CHEF DA: You know, I've always been like working in the best kitchens, the most intense kitchen with the most professional chefs and they are strict, rigorous, and organized. Since opening the bakery, people have been coming in and they have the love of baking. They are bakers without being professionals. I think, you know that the bakery has done so much. I always compare my time to when I was at Daniel, but we see people coming to the kitchen and be so amazed, or mind blown by the kitchen, the lights and the people, and they were saving in many cases a lifetime of their savings to come to Daniel for that meal at that restaurant and I wanted to give similar experience with my bakery through the food through the welcoming of people to experience different types of food. So, throughout the years we've welcomed like, you know, hundreds of thousands of millions of people passing through the door with food and I see so many people like bring me treats. Baking their own stuff. Running to me sometimes and I’m like, hmm should I eat it haha?
AM: That’s pretty ballsy for people to bring you their treats because you’re amazing!
CHEF DA: I always wanted to get close to you know, everyone not just to the elite of people I’ve served over the years, but to everyone and I wanted those recipes to connect with people. So I want to do a book that is humble and about home baking. I actually practiced a lot of recipes with my son at home. They're simple, their easy, and quick. It's not too intense, not too difficult. Baking can sometimes be scary for people because you're precise, you’re scaling everything, but there are ways you can do some things that are easy and casual recipes. That's what I wanted to talk about for this last book.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | PG 30 - 32 Paris Las Vegas | PG 35 - 39 Honey Bunches of Oats
Read the JAN ISSUE #109 of Athleisure Mag and see SWEET SUCCESS | Chef Dominique Ansel in mag.
We love a bling moment and when we were first introduced to Simone I Smith's line in 2011 and 2012, we loved her lollipop pendant, creating a line that is filled with statement jewelry that includes earrings, necklaces, and rings! She has collaborated with Celebrity Fashion Stylist Misa Hylton as well as 9X Grammy Award winner (32X Nominated), 8 multi-platinum albums, 2X Golden Globe nominee and SAG nominee Executive Producer and actress, Mary J. Blige (Power Book II: Ghost, Respect, How to Get Away with Murder)! Her line empowers those who wear it and she continues to expand her design aesthetic so that we can put our best foot forward. We sat down with Simone to find out more about her namesake line, her creative process, her recent launch of Majesty, her men's jewelry line where her sons and husband, Todd Smith aka LL Cool J (Oz, Deep Blue Sea, NCIS: Los Angeles) participated in her campaign, and more.
ATHLEISURE MAG: I love the earrings, of course. Well, thank you so much for taking the time I met you briefly at your launch event with you and Misa Hylton last Spring which was amazing and you debuted your Denim and Diamonds collection which was beautiful. I've been a fan of yours for a number of years, so I'm just so excited to chat with you.
SIS: Thank you, I'm excited to chat with you too!
AM: Well, when did you first fall in love with fashion and accessories?
SIS: When I was a teenager, you know, like 17, 18 years, when I met my husband and that was in ‘87 and it was right when they called it back then, it was called Truck Jewelry (Editor’s Note: Truck Jewelry is a Hip-Hop style of jewelry representing the intersection of religion, faith, and the culture. It showcases wealth, power, and social statsus. It’s often associated with large hoop earrings, rings, chains, watches, and medallions. It has influenced fashion globally.). But it was, when the Doorknockers were out there and you know, I had the Triangle Earrings. Todd gave me my first pair of Doorknocker Earrings and I was 17 years old and that's when I like fell in love with big hoops.
But fashion was always something that I've just always loved! I was always in my mother's closet always trying to wear her stuff. You know, I would love to, you know, just like put really cool fashionable things together. But I would say my love, definitely started around 17.
AM: What led you to decide to design jewelry?
SIS: An opportunity was presented to me and I ran with it. I just grabbed it and I was like the opportunity was presented to design the jewelry line and I was like, absolutely. But the first things, first things, first is Hoops! It's gonna be hard to find.
AM: Yeah.
SIS: They were hard to find, it was a big void in the marketplace. You couldn't really find good quality hoop earrings that were affordable. At that time, I was actually able to find like sterling silver hoops right?
AM: Yeah.
SIS: Just the color sterling jewelry ones. Because all of my jewelry is sterling silver. But the gold ones have a sterling silver base with 18K, plating on top of it. Just to find good quality gold hoops without having to spend $5,000 because they're 14K gold which is good quality hoops and I just wanted to be that designer that just blessed women with really fabulous, good quality, affordable hoops which I have been able to do.
AM: Which have a good wearable weight to them too.
SIS: Right, they’re not too heavy. We have a few pairs that may have a little weight to them, but that's because of the design and thickness, but even my thickest earrings, aren't that heavy because the base is sterling silver and not Stainless Steel.
AM: I remember the very first jewelry piece that I had seen from you was your Lollipop Pendant, which I remember when those came out. What was the first piece that you remember just designing?
SIS: The first piece I designed – okay, the first earring that I designed was my logo earring and It was because I fell in love with my logo. When I decided and I chose my logo, I said, “oh my God, these are going to be the hottest freaking hoops! This is going to be a hot hoop.”
AM: Yeah!
SIS: That was my first earring that I designed, and we named, well, my husband actually named it Infinite Love because if you look at my logo, it looks like an infinity sign, you see a heart, and you see a butterfly. So, Todd actually named those earrings for me and they're called Infinite Love. And then my second design was my lollipop and that's, because by the grace of God, thank you Jesus. I am a 20-year cancer survivor going on 21.
I had a lollipop tattoo on my left leg. Let me back up, they found a chondrosarcoma in my right, tibia bone. So I had to have Microvascular Reconstructive surgery, so they had to remove my whole tibia bone and replace it with my left, fibular bone. So when they had to go into my left leg to take my fibula bone out, the surgeon said, “Simone, you may wake up and your lollipop tattoo may not be there." And I was like, “well if there's any way you can avoid from messing up my lollipop tattoo, I would really appreciate it.” I woke up and a part of the lollipop tattoo was on the front of my right leg because they had to do a skin graft -
AM: Oh wow.
SIS: To cover the scarring on where they had to open up. So, when I had created my lollipop pendant, my lollipop tattoo actually looked like somebody took a bite out of it. So I designed my lollipop, exactly the way it looked after my surgery and I called it A Sweet Touch of Hope.
AM: Yeah.
SIS: Because the candy represents how sweet life is and the bite represents what cancer does.
AM: Yeah.
SIS: In the bite, my logo, emerges out of it because it's just a reminder of me being a cancer survivor, getting well, staying well, and it's all a part of my journey because life is really sweet. Life is a gift. Because everybody's cancer journey is different and I praise God that I'm here 20 years cancer free. I can walk. I can wear heels.
AM: You surely can walk in those heels as you looked great at the event!
SIS: I can’t chase dogs or anything, but I’m here. You know, praise God. And I can workout and I can wear heels and And, you know, and I'm just healthy.
AM: Where do you start in terms of your design process? Where do you get the inspiration from?
SIS: My inspiration comes from nature, you know what I'm saying? Like, I remember one day, I was eating some strawberries, and I was like, you know what, I want to make it, I'm gonna design an earring, that's the shape of a strawberry. So, anything inspires me, you know? So with the strawberry shape, like I came with the earring called Precious Fruit. So Precious Fruit is one of the classics. It was in the first collection of my earrings that I designed and it's still a very popular piece because the earring is actually shaped like a strawberry. My inspiration comes from fashion, my inspiration comes from my children.
AM: Mmm
SIS: If I look at flowers, it’s like, it's so many things that my inspiration is also women always just want to make sure that women have like great earrings. My inspiration just comes from the culture. My inspiration comes from just growing up in New York. You know the New York fashion to me, I don't think anybody has it. New York fashion is amazing.
What else inspires me? Like growing up being a teenager, you know, in the late ‘80s and meeting my husband. And when I think about sister love and me and Mary J. Blige coming together, and creating Sister Love the whole Sister Love brand is about creating big bold jewelry for women, because that's what we grew up on big bold jewelry!
AM: Right.
SIS: So, Hip-Hop is definitely an inspiration when it comes down to certain designs on Sister Love like all of the Fly Girls and the Bam Beauties (Editor’s Note: Bam Beauties are earrings and hoops inspired by bamboo), and bringing back the Doorknocker Earrings, but recreating them and modernizing them, and making them high polished with beautiful crystals and all of that. Even though I create that, I don't want to be pigeonholed as just an urban jewelry designer.
AM: Right.
SIS: Because when you look at all of my pieces, it's like, they're not all urban, but they like to pigeonhole me as an urban designer because I'm a Black female designer. If I wasn’t Black and I was designing all of this stuff, I wouldn't be called an urban designer. I'm a jewelry designer. I’m Simone I Smith that happens to be a Black woman.
So that’s my inspiration. It’s inspired by life!
AM: It’s clear in using, wearing, and styling your pieces that they hold their own in luxury, they illustrate a focus craftsmanship, and it is something that is very versatile that regardless of your personal style that can be worn. So when I'm looking at your pieces, I see a point of view for that person who wants to wear statement pieces unapologetically.
SIS: Thank you, thank you!
AM: I will say that what I love most about it is that I live in New York now, and have wow since 2001. I was born in ‘79 and I'm from the Midwest. So growing up watching Salt-N-Pepa and all these people, when I first saw the collection years ago I loved the themes woven in them that took Hip-Hop elements, but then elevating it to be something that could be mixed in with like your Gucci wear or whatever your style is. It was just so exciting to see the homage and where each person can take it to when they wear it. As someone who's a stylist, who really likes to infuse my looks with accessories, there's just such a visual texture to what you're creating in your line.
SIS: Thank you. Thank you. Look, it goes with your Gucci wear, but it also goes if you're wearing a beautiful gown. If you're putting on a suit and going into the office. Which is why, you know, we have the medium-sized hoops and we have the large hoops and then we have the extra-large hoops and then we have extra extra-large hoops. So, it's really about your fashion.
AM: Yup.
SIS: And fashion as you know, as a stylist, fashion is personal.
AM: Very much so.
SIS: You know what I’m saying? Fashion is your own identity. I encourage women that come to my trunk shows like when they go, “oh, you know, I work in Corporate America, I can't wear this size hoop.” Well, who told you that?
AM: Exactly.
SIS: Who made up the rule that you can't wear a 60mm hoop? You may not want to wear 80mm hoop. But maybe you might, if you have the boldness, and the security to wear it. You could walk in that room with your suit on with a nice big hoop earring. As long as you're wearing it, nobody's gonna notice it unless you feel uncomfortable.
AM: Exactly.
SIS: You understand what I’m saying? If you’re working it and owning it, people are going to say okay.
AM: Who is the Simone I Smith customer and what do you feel that they're looking for when they're coming to your site and to your brand?
SIS: I think the Simone I Smith customer is a woman who knows who she is. Who loves hoops, who is looking for a good quality piece of jewelry and who wants to be inspired. Not only do I have hoops, I have beautiful necklaces, I am a God fearing woman. Women can come on to Simona I Smith site and they can get beautiful scrolls that reminds them of how good God is. It reminds them who they are to God, to give them inspiration. You know, one of my famous scrolls is Let Your Light So Shine and I think women shine and I think women come to the Simone I Smith site because they want to be inspired, they want to shine. They want to look good. They want to feel good and my focus is making jewelry to make women look good and feel good.
AM: As you go from season to season, are there core pieces of the collection that are essentials and carry over?
SIS: I would say that my jewelry is for every season, I'm gonna be honest. It’s for every season. I’m not going to say that this is for the Fall. It’s classic, it’s timeless, and it’s for every season.
AM: What do you look for in a collaboration? Talking about before with sister, love with Mary, J. Blige, obviously Misa Hylton. You have another Misa Hylton, collaboration that's come out. What do you look for when it comes to collaborating?
SIS: I look for people who are just as inspired with passion, and the love of big hoop earrings. That's what I look for. You know, if you inspire me like Misa inspires me, Mary inspires me like we have a couple of collaborations that we're working on now that I can't announce, you know, until you know, they actually come into fruition. But everybody that I work with that I'm going to be working with they inspire me, they love God, they love fashion, and they love jewelry. They love the love of big hoops. I think it's important to show other women that women can work together. That's so important because you know, we know women can be so catty and can be so competitive. We're all flowers so we should all bloom and we can bloom together. We make a beautiful bouquet, right?
AM: 100%.
SIS: We make a beautiful bouquet so it's about supporting one another and then showing these young women, showing these young girls, we're better together, let's work together. So that's so important to me. Just working with people that you know that are not necessarily like-minded but right-minded!
AM: That’s a word, I like that!
SIS: Yeah and then have a love for accessories and making women feel good and look good, you know?
AM: Well, I received your Cosmic Ice Hoops which are beautiful another great collab between you and Misa!
SIS: Aren’t they so cute?
AM: So cute! When I got them out of their duster bags it was so exciting to see them.
SIS: I'm so happy you love them!
AM: I can't wait to wear them as well as include them in our next shoot, that comes up!
SIS: You could have had them on today honey!
AM: I should have but honestly I just finished my hot pilates class and time got away from me!
I love that this is called Cosmic Ice hoops. So, what was the inspiration behind it?
SIS: The inspiration behind it was whoa. Are you talking about the actual name?
AM: Well, the name and then also, this particular collection in its design, yes.
SIS: Okay, so Cosmic Ice, you know, me and Misa, we were in a design meeting and we were just talking about, making a pair of earrings that just kind of like reminded us of like the solar system. We wanted to give the women a little bit of ice and a little bit of pearl. But then it winds up just being kind of like balls with ice and how could we create the earring that kind of reminds us of the solar system? It's kind of like just started, you know, Misa got to sketching - it's so interesting the way these meetings happen because they're kind of hard to explain. We would definitely talk about how can we make a solar system on a pair hoops that’s not a dangle. We decided to put it on the outside and then once the samples came, a lot of times the samples can come back one time, which it doesn't always happen when you come back one time, but the samples, you just take about two or three times, and then when you get that one sample and it's perfect - as soon as we looked at it, I said, Misa, we need to call these Cosmic Ice.
AM: Wow.
SIS: We got our solar system hoops, but now, we're going to call them Cosmic Ice because they have a touch of ice and the circles.
AM: I love that.
SIS: I hope that that is a good explanation.
AM: I think it is. A lot of times, you don't know until you see it. I mean I've designed lines and you know it's in your head but until like you said, you get that 1st, 2nd, 3rd pass, you're like, alright, that's what that is.
SIS: Until things are being sketched up, you have your visual, and it's like, okay, these are going to be dope and then once you get them and then it's like, oh, these are hot. Like you have the visual in your mind. There have been plenty of things that were sketched out, you see the finished product and you're like nah!
AM: Nope.
SIS: It didn’t come out the way I wanted it to – nope, we’re not doing this. This isn't what I envisioned.
AM: It's always about getting that tingle in your skin when you see it, and everybody's faces light up, but if it doesn't happen, it's like, let's just put that to the side. Rework it.
SIS: Some things can't even be reworked.
AM: Well, then there's that!
What are 3 pieces from your collection like across your collection that if someone says these are three essential pieces, I need to have. What would you suggest?
SIS: The 3 essential pieces you need to have, I would probably say let me think because it depends on the someone.
AM: Oh well, that's true.
SIS: It depends on the someone because if it's someone that likes a big hoop, if it's someone that likes a really big hoop, right? I would probably say the 3 essential hoop earrings that you should have from the Simone I Smith - are we talking about Simone I Smith or Sister Love?
AM: Well that is up to you. It can be from Simone I Smith, Sister Love, Denim and Diamonds, Cosmic Ice – it’s up to you!
SIS: Okay, so let me think. So you have 3 essential pieces that you should have from the Simone I Smith collection. If you're a big hoop girl, I would say are the Brilliance Hoops in XL because those are my go-to's. Those are like my go-to. I would say the Brilliance. I would say Precious Fruit size L because Precious Fruit size, L with the diamond embellishments, you could dress that hoop up, you could dress that hoop down. And I would probably say, The Bangles. Yeah, I would say more than 1 because I wear 10 of them.
AM: Nice, I love a good wrist stack.
SIS: You know, I would say an arm full of Bangles, Brilliance XL - Gold or silver. Ooo can I add a fourth one please?
AM: Yes ma’am you can.
SIS: I would definitely say my Blessed Necklace. I think that women should wake up and they should feel every day that they open up their eyes that they are blessed. Lord, thank you for waking me up this morning to see another day. Thank you for waking me up in my right mind. Thank you for starting me, guide my thoughts, guide my steps. I am blessed. I want women to wake up every morning and feel like they're blessed. And I think my Blessed Necklace is definitely in there. If you to narrow it down, I would say the Brilliance Hoops, the Blessed Necklace and an arm full of Bangles.
AM: Well we're giving you all four.
SIS: Thank you!
AM: You also launched Majesty. I'm loving right now that jewelry lines that I really love that maybe began with women are now adding a men's collection to it. So what was the inspiration behind that?
SIS: The inspiration behind Majesty was to create an affordable luxe line for men to wear because everybody can’t afford a $5,000 or a $10,000 chain and a lot of those Cuban links with the beautiful links with the ice with real diamonds cost of a lot of money.
AM: For sure.
SIS: For so many years, many of my girlfriends' husbands or if guys would come to my trunk shows and buy things for their wives, they were like, “when are you gonna make something for us guys?” Women would say the same thing asking about jewelry for their guys. The time was right to create Majesty and really men inspired me to do it. My husband inspired me to do it. My son inspired me to do it. And thank you Jesus, they were able to be my models.
AM: Which is amazing.
SIS: They did a cool video and a photo shoot and it was really just, you know, blessing the brothers with some really great good quality jewelry, so that they could feel fly, they feel good and they can have great bracelets and nice link chains that are affordable, but look good and make them feel good.
AM: What are 3 from the Majesty Collection that you want to highlight that are great, you know essentials to start with to add to your style?
SIS: I would definitely say that The Truth Necklace is a classic and it is probably our number 1 seller. The Lion of Judah, I believe it is 2 of 3 different pendants. Lions represent strength, royalty, courage, and all of that. It's something about that lion pendant, that men don't mind wearing. I would probably say, the 3rd piece would be like Divine Ice and it gives them that touch of ice and makes them feel like they’re blinging today and they have some luxe on.
AM: Are there things coming up that we should keep an eye out for?
SIS: Well, you know, I always drop something exciting for my birthday so you can keep your eyes out for that. I'm not sure what it's going to be. We’re still kind of like, working on designs and everything. For Valentine's Day, during the holidays, we dropped Couture and I don’t know if you checked that out yet, but it’s really beautiful. It’s nice, big, bold chains for women.
AM: I'm going to check it out.
SIS: Check out the Guetty Necklace and the Guetty Bracelet. So with this Couture we have a piece dropping for Valentine's Day that I'm excited about, and my fingers are crossed that they get here in time because I'm super excited about that. So we had some really cute stuff wrapping for Valentine's Day. Something for my birthday. There are some new collaborations coming so I'm excited about that. Just stay tuned, cuz you know, SIS always has the products that I will continue to bless you ladies with fabulous hoops and fabulous bangles and all of that good stuff just to make you feel good.
PHOTOS COURTESY | Simone I Smith
Read the JAN ISSUE #109 of Athleisure Mag and see BLESSED ICE | Simone I Smith in mag.
Australia’s rugged landscapes, vast deserts, and remote coastal trails make it a dream destination for off-road enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore the red sands of the Outback, tackle rainforest tracks, or drive along remote beaches, a 4WD adventure is one of the best ways to experience the country. But planning a trip with a rental 4WD comes with unique considerations.
From choosing the right vehicle to understanding local road rules, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before hitting the tracks.
PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Floating Rabbit
Not all 4WD vehicles are built the same. Some are designed for light off-road use, while others can handle extreme conditions. The right choice depends on where you’re going and how challenging the terrain is.
Soft-Roaders (AWD SUVs) – Suitable for gravel roads and light off-road use but not designed for deep sand, mud, or river crossings.
All-Terrain 4WDs – Great for most off-road tracks, including dirt trails, light beach driving, and moderate river crossings.
Heavy-Duty 4WDs – Best for serious off-roading, deep sand dunes, remote desert tracks, and steep rocky trails.
When renting, check what vehicles are available and ensure they suit your planned route. Some rental companies specialize in off-road-ready 4WDs—view their stock to compare options and features before making a decision.
Before signing a rental agreement, read the fine print. Many rental companies have restrictions on where their 4WDs can go.
● Off-Limits Areas – Some companies prohibit driving on certain remote tracks, beaches, or unsealed roads.
● Mileage Limits – Some rentals come with daily kilometer caps, which could add unexpected costs if you plan a long journey.
● Insurance Coverage – Standard rental insurance may not cover off-road damage, so ask about additional coverage for off-roading.
● Roadside Assistance – Breaking down in a remote area is no joke. Ensure your rental includes roadside assistance that covers off-road locations.
Always clarify these details before booking. Getting stuck in the Outback with an uninsured repair bill isn’t an adventure anyone wants.
Australia is massive, and 4WD tracks range from beginner-friendly dirt roads to extreme off-road challenges. Plan your route carefully based on your experience level and vehicle capability.
● Gibb River Road (WA) – A scenic yet rugged track through the Kimberley region, with stunning gorges and river crossings.
● Cape York (QLD) – A challenging drive to the northernmost tip of Australia, with river crossings and rough tracks.
● Simpson Desert (NT, QLD, SA) – One of Australia’s most remote desert crossings, known for endless dunes and extreme conditions.
● Stockton Beach (NSW) – A great option for beach driving with rolling dunes and ocean views.
● Flinders Ranges (SA) – A mix of challenging mountain tracks and scenic outback roads.
Research each track’s difficulty level, seasonal conditions, and permit requirements. Some tracks require advance bookings, especially in national parks.
Unlike regular road trips, 4WD adventures require additional preparation. You can’t always rely on fuel stations, mobile coverage, or roadside services in remote areas.
● Recovery Gear – Snatch straps, traction boards, a shovel, and a tire deflator can get you out of trouble if you get bogged.
● Spare Tires and Tools – Many 4WD tracks have sharp rocks that can puncture tires. Carry at least one spare and a puncture repair kit.
● Satellite Phone or UHF Radio – Mobile coverage is patchy in remote areas. A sat phone or UHF radio can be a lifesaver.
● Navigation Tools – GPS devices and offline maps are essential. Don’t rely on mobile apps that require internet access.
● Plenty of Water and Food – Carry extra supplies in case of delays. Remote areas can be unforgiving.
● Camping Gear – Many tracks have no accommodation options, so be ready to camp if needed.
Packing smart ensures you stay safe and self-sufficient, especially in isolated regions.
Driving off-road is very different from regular highway driving. Without the right techniques, it’s easy to get stuck or damage your rental.
Sand Driving – Lower your tire pressure to improve traction, keep momentum steady, and avoid sudden braking.
River Crossings – Walk through first (if safe) to check depth and avoid strong currents. Use low gear and maintain a steady speed.
Rocky Trails – Go slow and steady, use low-range gears, and avoid sudden steering movements.
Mud and Wet Tracks – Engage 4WD mode early, use steady throttle control, and avoid deep ruts.
Steep Hills – When climbing, keep a consistent speed. When descending, use engine braking instead of relying on brakes.
Practicing these skills before heading into remote areas can help avoid unnecessary trouble.
Many 4WD tracks in Australia go through remote regions with limited fuel stations and supply points. Running out of fuel in the Outback is dangerous.
● Research fuel station locations along your route.
● Carry extra fuel in jerry cans if stations are far apart.
● Monitor fuel consumption, as off-road driving burns more fuel than highway driving.
Also, stock up on essential supplies like drinking water, food, and emergency gear. Some remote areas have no shops for hundreds of kilometers.
Weather plays a huge role in off-road travel. Some tracks become impassable in certain seasons, while others are only open at specific times of the year.
● Wet Season (Nov–Apr, Northern Australia) – Many tracks flood and become dangerous.
● Dry Season (May–Oct, Northern Australia) – Best time for Outback and remote 4WD trips.
● Winter (June–Aug, Southern Australia) – Snow can make some mountain tracks dangerous.
● Summer (Dec–Feb, Outback & Desert Regions) – Extreme heat can be hazardous, with temperatures exceeding 45°C.
Always check local weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out.
Australia’s remote landscapes are beautiful but fragile. Off-roading should be done responsibly to minimize environmental impact and respect Indigenous lands.
● Stay on Designated Tracks – Avoid creating new trails, which can damage ecosystems.
● Follow Leave No Trace Principles – Take all rubbish with you and leave campsites as you found them.
● Respect Local Rules – Some areas require permits or have cultural restrictions—always check before entering.
● Keep Noise Levels Down – Many remote areas are home to wildlife and Indigenous communities.
Being a responsible traveler helps preserve Australia’s landscapes for future adventurers.
PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Johnathan Ciarrocca
A 4WD adventure in Australia is an unforgettable experience, but proper planning is essential. Choosing the right rental vehicle, understanding restrictions, packing smart, and preparing for different terrains will set you up for a safe and enjoyable journey.
By following this guide, you’ll be ready to tackle Australia’s most stunning off-road destinations with confidence. Just remember—respect the land, drive responsibly, and enjoy the adventure.
We love watching our favorite athletes play and with an exciting WNBA season coming back later this year, we've all been introduced to Unrivaled League, a 3X3 format. In today's issue, we sat down with Washington Mystics' Shakira Austin who also plays on the Lunar Owls BC! We took some time to talk about her love of the game, what it's like playing for the Mystics and also playing on Unrivaled. We also talked about how she has been recovering from her surgery and her goals as she is back to playing on the court!
As part of TYLENOL® Greatness Hurts campaign, the brand has partnered with the Women's Sports Foundation®’s ‘Athlete Recovery and Care Commitment Grant.’ THis provides much needed support and 10 elite women athletes were awarded this.The aim to help women athletes overcome pain and recover from setbacks to their career caused by injury, ultimately helping them achieve their career goals.
The grant continues the long-standing commitment to demonstrate Care Without Limits, not only providing support for the physical pain but also the mental and financial hardships women athletes face in the hopes of positively impacting the outcome of their journeys.
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you first fall in love with basketball?
SHAKIRA AUSTIN: I would say probably around 9th grade, I started, when I was about 13/14. My dad actually tried to put me in when I was like 7 and he said, I did not like it! You know, I come from a basketball family. My uncle had played, my dad kind of caught him, so he didn't force it on me. But, you know, I eventually made my way back around 8th grade and by 9th grade, I was like, yeah, this is it.
AM: And that’s also when you were like, if I can, I'm definitely gonna go pro!
SA: Oh yeah! By 9th grade, my dad was convinced that I would be the #1 draft pick.
AM: Wow, that's amazing! You've been playing for the Washington Mystics since you were drafted in 2022. What does it mean to you to play with this team?
SA: It's amazing. The opportunity to be back to, you know, your hometown team. It’s definitely a once in a lifetime the opportunity, so I'm grateful! It hasn't gone the way I would like it to go. But, you know, I know my future is going to be a lot better. So I'm excited to see, you know, what happens.
AM: I know you've been recovering from an injury from last season. What takes place as an athlete, when you know that you're injured? Do you still work out on some level? How do you realize what you're going to do in terms of not playing for the rest of the season, but getting yourself prepared to play again?
SA: You know, it's been my first big injury. I've never had surgery, never really sat out more than a few days, so it's been a new adjustment of when you're not supposed to do anything, when you're supposed to, you know, sit and rest and when you're able to kind of crank it back up. So for me it was all about the timing of which part of my rehab process, I was in. When I first had my surgery it was shut down for 2 months at least.
It wasn't until month 3 that I was actually able to slowly start building up and that went into the season. I entered my month 4 right when training camp started. So it was like, I had to balance rehab while also trying to get prepared for the season and get prepared for games. I had a new role with the team, so it's been a long journey of trying to understand my body and figure out okay, when should you know to work out more or should you allow yourself to recover. So that's pretty much been the process.
AM: How has Tylenol assisted in that recovery process for you?
SA: Yeah, I mean, it’s allowing me to have a grant like this. It's going to just open the door for, you know, everything that I've been wanting for my future, for my career. It's an amazing opportunity for me to continue to kind of just vibe more into my rehab process. Just to kind of figure out how to get back to where I want to be, you know, being injured for the first time, I've had to figure out how to be a professional honestly.
AM: Yeah.
SA: Before, I would just wake up, not practice.
AM: Yeah.
SA: I was just feeling great. So that's no longer my life. So, having opportunities with Tylenol, and with Women’s Sport Foundation, this grant it's just been able to open up new doors like I said and to figure out what, what more can I help myself with my body, with my mental, and things like that. Just make me better overall.
AM: What are 3 workouts that you've been doing in terms of your recovery that our readers can know about? Maybe if they have the same type of issue that can help them as well.
SA: So you know, having a hip labrum tear, it's a really big surgery. It's a lot to recover from and for me, it's just been about really being in the weight room and building those small muscles that you might ignore, you might, you know, neglect in a sense. So now I'm just able to build my hip flexor strength, focus on my glutes, and figuring out, let's see how everything is just really connected. For me, it's really just been about staying in the weight room. Understanding how to warm up properly. My hip takes a lot to warm up right now. So, just being intentional and figuring out how to prepare, but also just recover it, the best that I can.
AM: So obviously the WNBA season, starts back up in May of this year, but in looking at your IG, you're on the Unrivaled League, which just started on Jan 17th of this year which is amazing. Tell us about the league because I know our readers are excited and you're also playing for the Lunar Owls BC. So we'd love to hear more about that.
SA: It's a whole new style game that you know, no one has seen before. It's 3 on 3 full court, it's super fast - 1-on-1. It's just been fun you know to be in this inaugural season and be a part of something new for just women's basketball but also just women's sports in general you know? This arrival, it just offers a new opportunity for us specifically women's basketball players. We typically have to play year round. We have to go overseas and go straight into our WNBA season. So, you know, this is a great opportunity for the best players to come in. We have free agency starting. It's kind of neat because we're kind of recruiting in the same time.
AM: Yeah.
SA: It's been a super dope process so far, and I'm just really happy that this is kind of the next step for me. Coming off of my injury.
AM: It runs for 9 weeks and I guess that takes you almost into training camp before you go back to the league?
SA: So yeah, we will have a little bit of a break. So, that's the cool thing about this gig. It's like eight weeks or about two months. We'll still have a gap period before the next season.
AM: Oh, nice.
SA: So it's really unheard of! Normally depending on where you go, you play year round. It’s amazing for us to be in Miami, it’s warm.
AM: That's good too. We’re in New York and it's so cold.
SA: When I left to come here it was freezing so I’m glad to be here.
AM: What are you looking forward to in terms of once the WNBA season comes back again and you're playing with the Mystics?
SA: Well for me, it’s about playing to my full potential. I've been taken away from the game with my injuries. I haven't been able to showcase honestly, the type of style that I'm wanna play. So, I've been focusing on getting my health and really just going out and showcasing what I can do.
We wanted to know more about the purpose of the Women's Sports Foundation as well as their initiatives for the range of athletes that they work with! We were able to find out about this as well as the history of this organization via Danette Laighton who is the CEO of this advocacy group.
ATHLEISURE MAG: After the pleasure to speak with Shakira, we got to hear a bit about Women's Sports Foundation. We felt that it would be great to find out more and it's so incredibly amazing. Can you tell us a little bit about who you are, your background prior to coming to WSF and of course, we'll be digging into the foundation itself.
DANETTE LEIGHTON: It's lovely to be here. So thank you for having me. So I feel very fortunate that I have had a long career in the sports industry as you have probably seen!
My experience has been that you know I have worked with athletes, teams, and leagues my whole career. I have been very much so exposed to recognizing the resilience of remarkable athletes both on the men's and women's side, but I really spent a significant amount of time on the women’s side. So, part of the very beginning of the WNBA, with one of the original franchises was the Sacramento Monarchs running the business side, where I spent almost a decade there. You know, I was able to really understand and see the ins and outs of what it takes. Not just to run a franchise for a business perspective but also what the athletes go through.
AM: Of course.
DL: It’s about really spending a lot of quality time with our athletes and the challenge. We have always known at WSF that one of the greatest gifts you learn from sports is resilience.
AM: Sure.
DL: I think nothing is more true to that than when you watch athletes perform at the highest level and they go through challenges which is also another reason why we are excited to partner with Tylenol in this program. That was one of my experiences.
I spent a significant amount of time in Collegiate Athletics as a CMO for the Pac-12 Conference that used to represent universities, like USC, UCLA, Stanford, Cal obviously lots of changes in the collegiate landscape which is also another area of focus in our advocacy work that we prioritize in the WSF, we really have cared and worked on the entire women's sports ecosystem. Since we are founded by Billie Jean in 1974. So we're 51 years old this year so my experience is in Collegiate Athletics, Professional sports, and I've spent time on University campuses. Very early on, I ran the Women's Basketball Final Four which is really fun and exciting for me to see the trajectory and the momentum in that sport. Obviously, it's been a lot of my career in women’s basketball and then I've spent time on the brand side working, very closely with brands and why they invest in sports and sports properties. And I had a chance to do that during my time at Sony and particularly in the area of golf – PGA golf. So, I feel very fortunate. I clearly have a passion for sport.
AM: Clearly.
DL: And I've had a great career and this was three years ago, I took the opportunity to take over this position as CEO of the WSF because even though I never was an elite athlete myself, I know what my youth sport, participation taught me, and I don't think I ever would have been a C-Suite leader without it and the principles that come with sport and this is just another example of why it's so important to invest in girls and women playing sports.
AM: It’s an incredible career and how it has led you to this point!
What is the WSF and how do they work with athletes?
DL: Sure. So the WSF, like I said was founded 51 years ago by Billie Jean King. We like to say we're not sure Billie Jean ever slept. Because when she founded us, she was also beginning to create the Women's Tennis Association, equal pay at the US Open - she just was doing so many monumental things that now today for many of us, none of us would have the careers that we have without the work that Billie did very early on. But the WSF is primarily an advocacy research organization. We really were one of the first champions and leaders of the entire women's sports ecosystem. But we’ve really been able to make the connection through data and research and our advocacy work and community programming, which is an example like this grant program, we do with Tylenol to prove the important and vital role that sports plays for girls and women - from a societal perspective, cultural perspective, and economic impact perspective. So we've seen this for decades, I feel very fortunate to take over the reigns three years ago, but really we like to say sports is not a nice to have for girls women, it's a must-have.
AM: Absolutely.
DL: Because you know when girls play sports they lead and we all win and that’s really what the WSF is all about.
AM: As a CEO, what is your role? What are some of your day-to-day or month-to-month focuses that you have?
DL: Well, as any CEO of a not-for-profit, most of my time is to make sure that we can be funded to do our great work. We have been as part of our DNA, we don't do anything without research and data. So, one thing I've always really appreciated about this organization is it's always led by research. So we have hundreds and hundreds of research projects that have proven through the years of different areas of why sports matter, why they matter from an economic perspective, why they're matter from a leadership perspective, why they matter from a health and well-being perspective for girls and women where that aren't access points for girls and women, so overseeing obviously our organization and all of our core areas, so our advocacy team can do their advocacy work. Our research team can do the research as necessary, to prove the model and then all of our great community programming that we do, which are essentially outputs of that research and data, which an example is obviously this great program we have with Tylenol.
So we've been doing that for decades and as it relates to Elite athletes, I mean obviously being founded by one of the probably most iconic female athletes of our day, we do a lot with elite athletes even from the very beginning. One of the most important things for Billie was to make sure that Elite athletes serve on our board. So we had Elite female athletes since the day of our existence serving as part of our Board of Trustees, which is why I'm the CEO and we always have an Elite athlete president which currently is a Paralympian athlete named Scout Bassett. And we always have that as a part of our DNA and part of our structure, really important to give women at a very early parts, of their careers opportunities to have board service, which we know is parallel to society.
At the same time, we've worked for many, many years with different programs, like our Travel and Training Grant, which really helped women athletes and Elite athletes, prepare for elite competition, and have some of the funding that's needed and not a lot of people understand that we're very thrilled about the momentum in women's sports.
AM: Right.
DL: But it's been decades in the making and this is not a coincidence because our job has always been to protect Title IX and we recognize and all of us know that none of this would be happening if it wasn't for that piece of legislation and now you're seeing 5 decades of women that have had the ability to play sport. And that didn't start until Gen X.
AM: You've been speaking about the core initiatives, can you dig a little bit more and tell us about the advocacy, the research and the community programming?
DL: So, you know, one of the primary roles that we play in advocacy is obviously the protection of Title IX and the importance of that legislation, and an example of that will be a program that we co-founded 39 years ago, that's called National Girls and Women's Sports Day. It's now an iconic day for everybody that supports and celebrates girls participating in sports and women. You see it kind of across the country. We spend time in Washington DC putting together a community programming event in a clinic, with young girls, to expose them to different sports, we spend time actually working on key issues. This year, we'll be spending a lot of time in the Collegiate Athletics space talking about the changing landscape there to make sure that we can sustain, have the opportunities for both men and women to continue to have great sport opportunities and go to college in our current system. And so programs like NGWSD, in addition, to spending time meeting with different policy makers and legislators and talking about the importance of why sports should be not seen as a nice to have and protecting legislation like Title IX are some of the advocacy work that we do, but we really focus in on where we see challenges and barriers, which is really what our research does.
Our research will point out different types of areas of need. So one of the biggest focus we play on is the access point for girls to play sports. So some stats that people don't recognize even in 2025, is that the high school girl participation number is exactly where the boys were in 1972 sitting here in 2025.
AM: Oh wow.
DL: You don't realize we still have a long way to go, which is why we care about the whole ecosystem, which is from the access point for young girls and women through the high school and Collegiate side, all the way to the Elite competition and recognizing some of the barriers that our Elite athletes have had especially in the one that we're so proud of to partner with Tylenol because of the importance of recognizing what happens when you get hurt and what they need to do to get back to their greatness and it is a hard journey, and for a partner like Tylenol to understand that this type of program would be a necessity and I'm sure you heard this from Shakira, it is one of those things that a lot of people don't realize is very different from women, because they have had, less opportunities have had less investment, and so, this is an area to help them get back on their feet, literally and figuratively, and make sure that they can continue on their Elite sport journey.
AM: Exactly.
Can you talk a little bit more about the program? I mean, she talked about it briefly. How did this come into being and why is this important as we know that you gave it to 10 athletes.
DL: You know, I think this is one of those great examples of finding a partner like Tylenol and collaborating on alignment of issues that we recognize and that we both carry deeply about. I think that's where this all started. I think there's a lot of parallels to what happened in sports and for women, to the greater kind of gender and women in society.
This is one of those areas. We know it's incredibly important to go through hard times. We know what resilience teaches you. But when you're an Elite athlete trying to compete, sometimes you run into real barriers that you don't have the funding mechanisms or the support that you need to get yourself back up and to be able to continue that journey to try to really get to the highest level you possibly can in your sport. And what I love about this program is the diversity of sports and athletes it represents. It gives a really great example of how many different sports opportunities are out there for girls and women, and the different sports that were obviously, and the athletes that were going on their different journeys. And I think that is a really great example of just what sports has been for so long for both men and women. It's a broad-based nature of the opportunities that you can find your passion and you have lots of sport opportunities and as long as there's that access point for girls and women, to be able to start to play and then through their journey, they have programs like this with Tylenol, it's really been a game changer and a first of its kind and we're thrilled to partner with Tylenol. We're really looking forward to continue this program into the future. It's the first of its kind for us.
AM: For those, that they may not be athletes, whether it’s Elite, semi-pro, or recreational how can we support WSF, whether it's an individual or even like a brand like Athleisure Mag? We've actually wanted to reach out to the organization for years because I think it's really cool. I was a cheerleader and I know some debate on whether that’s an athlete and did it through a couple of seasons for MLS NY/NJ Metro Stars which became NY Red Bull. I was in a tennis rec league with a company that I worked for and we even did charity runs so training, competing, and using those skills is always something that I have believed in. So how can people support?
DL: Well, you know, I like to say cheerleading is a sport too. I know what cheerleaders did so I would not count yourself out as an athlete!
I think you know for us obviously, we want everybody to support girls and women in their communities in whichever way they can. You can do it from the most basic fundamental level of supporting and coaching a youth sport. It's really important for girls to see women coaching girls. Some of our other research we recognize this as a critical component. If you can see her, you can be her! Understanding the nuances of coaching girls to boys and there's differences encouraging your daughters and your sons to play sports and realizing the power of it. Supporting a local high school, supporting your local professional team, buying a jersey of your favorite professional women’s sports team. It's really, really simple to support women's sports. Everybody can invest it in their own way and also gain the benefits of recognizing the power of it. But like many of us, I was never an Elite athlete. What I think is really important for everybody to understand is that when girls play as long as possible - the biggest barrier that happens with girls is they quit in Middle School for all the reasons that you can imagine.
We need to continue to push them to play as long as possible, it doesn't matter what level they play at because when they do, it impacts them from a physical health, and well-being, and mental health, and well-being. It's a very preventative, way where their life will continue in a great journey as adults, but it also drives them to be the next leader. And I think that's one of the things that we see is so powerful and one of our latest research reports that we did last year, which is called Play to Lead – 71% of women cross-generationally from their 20s, 30s 40s, 60s, 70s - all of had a position of manager or hirer. All recognize what is applicable and the intangibles that they learn when they play sports. It’s discipline. It's competitiveness. It's resilience, it’s all these things and those are not what you get taught in school. What makes you a powerful leader and no matter what profession you choose. That's why we like to say women's sports is not a nice to have for girls. So for us you can support us in many ways. Obviously we're always looking to have people who want to have the treasure or the time to support us. We're looking for as many people as possible to support us in our fundraising efforts, but really also to engage and amplify our work. That's important to us. I always like to share with everybody who may not have the means to support a not-for-profit, yet amplify, our work talk about us, share, why this is so important. Engage your community and be one of those role models that other girls can follow because we have a lot of challenges for young women still not having the access that they need to play sports.
AM: What is the Annual Salute?
DL: So our Annual Salute is our largest fundraiser, but it has been one of these and very early on where it’s one of the places that we support and celebrate the women’s sports community and Elite athletes from every single sport imaginable. One thing I love about the WSF, which is similar to the recipients of the Tylenol Grant is we showcase every sport, every type of from Paralympians to Olympic, to Elite athletes in Track and Field to professional athletes in the WNBA and NWSL you name it, we support it. But we talk about it and we celebrate them. And we showcase what's so important about sports for girls and women. At the end of the day, you may never ever get to that Elite level and we know it's incredibly hard, it’s a less than 1% that these types of athletes ever get to that level but 99% of us are all athletes if we have the ability to play throughout our youth, middle school, high school and those lessons will give us the greatest gift throughout the rest of our life. And I know it's done it for myself, and I wouldn't be sitting talking to you today if it didn’t.
AM: Is there anything that you would like us to keep an eye out for that WSF is doing or any initiatives?
DL: What I think is just helping people understand who we are and what we've done. We like to say we've been around a long time. We’re very proud of that being a not-for-profit that's 51 years old and have had the success that we've had. But like any not-for-profit, we all know it's really, really important for people to not just support us financially, but support our work again, by amplifying and promoting us and just being able to share our stories and what we're doing and to find a way that they can do it in their own Community. We're a national organization. We have many programs, you know, just like National Girls and Women's Sports Day, you'll see us all throughout the year across the country doing different clinics.
We have incredible Grant programs like you're learning about with Tylenol and I think it's just one of those things that we want to continue to make sure that girls are invested in and that people understand the power of sport and how transformative it is for women throughout their whole lives. And we want people to invest in girls and women and make sure they have the access to both sports.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | PG 62 - 74 Unrivaled | PG 76 Tylenol