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CLASSPASS Month In Review: August 2016

NYC Classpass reviews

It’s time for another recap of my ClassPass workout adventures in New York City.  Since I spent time running outside and traveling during August, I didn’t get to use all 10 of my classes. I am thankful that I decided to drop down to the CORE plan for summer and am going to keep using this same plan in September as I know I’ll be running outside a lot for 10k training. As a reminder, the Core Plan is $125 per month and allows ClassPass (Use this link to save $20 on your first month!) members to take 10 classes per cycle and visit any studio up to 3 times.   

If you’re on CLASSPASS  feel free to follow my fitness schedule here. I love meeting readers so if you see me in a class, please say hello! If you want to check out my previous monthly recaps, click here, here,  here, here, andhere.  Also, my friends are taking me up on this offer already, but if you guys have ANY questions about ClassPass, even if you’re not in NYC, feel free to email me! I’m happy to help and can also reach out to the team if you have specific questions. 

August 2016

  • Number of classes taken: 8
  • Number of studios visited: 6
  • Average cost per workout based on NYC rate of $125 per month for 10 classes: $15.62

Area Yoga Basics

I’m a huge fan of the Area Yoga studio in Carroll Gardens due to the hands on approach to teaching, airy second floor studio and proximity to our house. This class included 60 minutes of  yoga and a total of 10 minutes of meditation and childs pose/savasana at the beginning and end. The basics class ensures that any student, regardless their level, can reap the benefits of yoga and try new things during class. This particular class included everything from some slower flow, focusing on alignment, to an introduction to headstands. I was so relaxed by the end that I fell asleep during an especially relaxing savasana which included props to make it even more restorative and relaxing than normal. Make sure to bring your mat and towels to this no-frills studio as it’s $2 to rent.

IMAX Shift

Unfortunately this new Brooklyn spin studio did not delivery on our expectations. The IMAX screen reminded us more of the Windows screensaver while the huge studio was awkwardly empty with only 5 of 50 bikes filled. While I did get a pretty good workout during the class, I didn’t enjoy it. If you want to read more, check out the full review I wrote last week following the class.

We Flow Hard Y7 (2)

This studio isn’t for everyone, but man do I enjoy it. Luckily, my friends like it too so lately it’s become a “happy hour” workout choice on Friday evenings. Each class is a bit different but in the WeFlowHard classes, students should come prepared to sweat – a lot. The infared heated room is darkened so that students can focus on their flow versus watching others or feeling self conscious. The music is often rap or top 40 music which creates a very different vibe than you have at most yoga studios. Throughout the class there is time for free flow which allows students to complete a sequence at their own rhythm and pace.  The Flatiron location doesn’t have showers but both locations feature a “refresh bar” where students can blow dry hair, freshen up and apply makeup. If you want to read more about Y7 you can read my full studio review here.

Box Group at Work Train Fight (2)

Recently boxing has become Bo’s favorite workout so finding a studio that we both like was a priority during August. Work Train Fight, which I first learned about from Meaghan’s review, is the perfect studio for us. The classes have no more than 15 students, ensuring corrections and adjustments from the instructor. Each of the classes we have taken there so far have been challenging but not so hard that we want to quit. The instructors take time at the beginning of each section to review the moves so everyone, even new students, can quickly follow along.  The gym also offers treadmills and weights which students can use if they arrive early or stay after class. If you want to shower before work, the studio has locker rooms and showers but make sure to bring your own toiletries.

Church Street Boxing

The second boxing studio we tried in August, this is definitely more of a gritty experience which I would recommend to people who have previously taken boxing classes. While the staff was very friendly and welcoming, I felt like a beginner in this class, barely able to keep up with the other students as the class quickly transitioned movements. Even though I’ve taken multiple boxing and HIIT classes, the ten minute warm-up left me sweating and against the wall catching my breath as well as confused since I’d never heard of some of the moves and the teacher didn’t demonstrate them. After the warm up we headed outside for walking lunges around the block, which when done correctly, takes longer than you’d think. The actual boxing work portion of the class was great but the 25 minutes of warm-up and cardio before that really turned me off to the studio. In addition, the showers and lockeroom are quite small and grimy so make sure to bring your own towel, shower shoes and toiletries.

Mixed Level Bar Method Brooklyn

This is hands down my favorite barre studio. It’s super convenient, spotless, welcoming and offers more than eight classes per day. The 60-minute, non-impact total body workout includes a warm-up, arm section using free-weights and body weight followed by intense leg work at the bar and finally an ab section. The teachers are welcoming and do a wonderful job providing adjustments and helping you ensure you get the most out of the workout. This studio has two showers so you can easily get ready for work after class. Make sure to bring socks with you for class and wear leggings or crops. My favorite teachers are Lauren, Alyssa and Katie!

Your turn: If you’re a NYC local, what are your favorite studios? Where should I sweat next? 

This post is not compensated nor requested of me via CLASSPASS. While it does contain affiliate links, as a CLASSPASS affiliate, I only receive a small compensation if you choose to purchase a CLASSPASS membership.

 

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ClassPass Month In Review: January and February

Classpass-month-in-review-jan- feb 20

It’s time for another installment of the ClassPass Month in Review. As you may remember, four months ago Bo and I decided to give ClassPass a try after hearing wonderful things about it, realizing the two of us could leverage it together and a positive month long trial back in July.  It’s crazy how much can change in such a short period of time. Back in July I tried it for the first time and now, just a few months later, I’m an official ClassPass ambassador!  I’ve taken 89 classes through ClassPass and am one of their largest advocates! Don’t believe me? Try for yourself! Use this link to get $25 off your first month

Also, my friends are taking me up on this offer already, but if you guys have ANY questions about ClassPass, even if you’re not in NYC, feel free to email me! I’m happy to help and can also reach out to the team if you have specific questions. 

As promised, each month I will provide a brief recap of our experience including the number of classes taken, average cost per class and a brief recap of the studios where we sweat that month. In addition, if you’re on CLASSPASS feel free to follow my fitness schedule here. I love meeting readers so if you see me in a class, please say hello! If you want to check out my previous monthly recaps, click here, here,  here and here.

Month 4: January 21st – February 20th 

Number of classes taken: 11

Number of studios visited: 7

Number of classes missed or late cancelled: 0

Number of cities: 1 (NYC)

Average cost per workout based on NYC rate of $125 per month: $11.36

I’m not surprised that this month was a pretty  big reduction in the number of classes I took as we had people stay with us three weekends and we traveled to Tahoe for a ski weekend. Unfortunately, by March I felt this reduction in workouts and have made it a focus of mine over the past few weeks to get back to strength training, HIIT workouts and/or bar workouts. I just feel better when I have supplement my running with these workouts. A few people, including running coaches who I respect greatly, have suggested that I can easily enjoy yoga in the evening after a morning run, in order to allow me time on other days to focus on other workouts.

Last Month’s Classes

Brooklyn BodyBurn Cobble Hill (3)

This hard and humbling class will leave even the most in-shape students trembling and shaking after just the first few minutes of class. The class takes place on Megaformer machines, which resemble a Pilates reformer machine but are so much more than that. Most classes begin with planks and ab engagement then flow through multiple complex movements which engage the entire body. The classes are small, limited to less than 10 students, so the teachers can adjust and coach throughout the class. I can’t recommend Jason’s classes enough as he is hilarious, has a great playlist and motivates me through even the hardest of moves. Also, take a friend for your first class as there is definite power and safety in numbers.

Barry’s Bootcamp Chest, Back & Abs Tribeca (2)

I first tried Barry’s Bootcamp in 2012 during a Well+Good event. It was a love at first sweat experience. Since then they have expanded throughout NYC and cities across the world but the workout hasn’t changed. Walk into the dim lit room ready to work your butt off, sweat a lot, have awesome music pumping through the speakers and instructors motivating you through a mix of yelling, inspiring and supporting. While the workout isn’t for everyone, I definitely suggest snagging a spot on ClassPass and trying it out for yourself. The classes book quickly but I was able to squeeze into a 6pm class by booking the same day. The chest, back and abs class is actually my favorite of their offerings as it feels the most like a full body workout. When you’re not sprinting or tackling hills on the treadmill, you’re on the floor moving through pushups, planks and other forms of minute long torture.

High 45 at Mile High Run Club (2)

I’ve professed my love of Mile High multiple times (full review here). Their High 45 class is a great class for runners of all abilities. As you can guess from the class name, the workout includes 45-minutes of running. The running includes a five minute warm-up and five minute cool down. In between that you’ll sweat through 35 minutes of tempo work. A typical class includes half hills and half speed with most intervals ranging from three to six minutes! My favorite teachers are Jes Woods and Deborah Woods!

Sunrise Flow Bend & Bloom Yoga (2)

This Park Slope yoga studio has two large, bright, beautiful studios and offers more than 65 classes per week.  The Sunrise Flow which is offered on Friday mornings, is taught by the lovely Christine, a fellow blogger and runner. Her class is 60 minutes of flow which often includes lots of twists, stretches and restorative poses along with a fewer higher energy poses to wake the body. I love starting my Friday with this class as it puts me in the best mood and is a great way to release tension and stress from the body as well as shake out my hips and legs before my weekend long run.  While there aren’t showers, the studio’s private bathroom is spacious and would allow for a quick wet wipe bath and dry shampoo spritz before work.

WeFlowHard Vinyasa Yoga at Y7 

This studio isn’t for everyone, but man do I love it. Each class is a bit different but in the WeFlowHard classes, students should come prepared to sweat – a lot. The infared heated room is darkened so that students can focus on their flow versus watching others or feeling self conscious. The music is often rap or top 40 music which creates a very different vibe than you have at most yoga studios. Throughout the class there is time for free flow which allows students to complete a sequence at their own rhythm and pace.  The Flatiron location doesn’t have showers but both locations feature a “refresh bar” where students can blow dry hair, freshen up and apply makeup. If you want to read more about Y7 you can read my full studio review here.

Dash 28 at Mile High Run Club

If you’re newer to Mile High or running, this class is a great option for you! The 45-minute class includes 28 minutes of treadmill running followed by 10 minutes of strength training using body weight and kettle bells. The running portion includes a mix of hills and speed work, similar to the distance class, but due to the short duration, flies by quickly. I highly recommend Andia Wilson and Corinne!

Power Flow 60 Tangerine Hot Power Yoga

There is a reason this studios classes quickly sell out, especially evening and weekends when Brooklyn locals and Manattanites flock to Tangerine Yoga. The 60-minute class isn’t for the weak as it is a heated strong, power yoga class. But, don’t fear, instructors provide lots of adjustments and guidance to ensure everyone has the best session possible. The studio provides complimentary yoga mats and towels as well as selling juices and coconut water in the small boutique and lounge area. I’ve now taken five classes at this studio and grow more in love with it each class. They develop a great sense of community and each instructor is more supportive than the next. So far, my favorite instructors are Emily and Tamara.

Your turn: If you’re a NYC local, what are your favorite studios? Where should I sweat next? 

This post is not compensated nor requested of me via CLASSPASS. While it does contain affiliate links, as a CLASSPASS affiliate, I only receive a small compensation if you choose to purchase a CLASSPASS membership.

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Friday Favorites – March 4, 2016

Friday snowy vibes

I don’t know about you, but I needed the positive vibes this morning, hence why I reached for this coffee cup versus my typical mug of choice. The past few days have been pretty stressful between work and some personal stuff. But, luckily it’s nothing that can’t be cured with some yoga, a long run and some relaxation this weekend. We started the weekend vibes last night with a double date which included delicious Italian food and much-needed catch-up time with friends. We’ve all been so busy with work and travel that it’d been far too long since we caught up. This weekend I have a 10-mile long run tomorrow morning in Central Park to run part of the NYC Half course, and then I’m going to hang out at Fhitting Room tomorrow afternoon for their Survival of the Fhittest competition which they are hosting as part of their three-year anniversary party. In between that sweaty fun we are going to have some family time as my father-in-law is in town. Tomorrow night will be a nice relaxing night in with family, catching up on all things wedding and cooking in the kitchen together. I can’t believe Meg (my sister-in-law in case you’re new to the blog) and Russell’s wedding is in less than 2.5 months! What do you guys have planned this weekend?

As promised, in regular Friday fashion, here is this week’s version of Friday Favorites. So, as you count down the hours until the weekend begins, let’s dive into this week’s edition of Friday Favorites, including recipes, articles, posts and other things that caught my eye this week.

Have you heard about the new Under Armour shoes which feature technology that track and record your runs?! I loved reading Jess’ review of the shoes earlier this week. I wonder how quickly other running brands will follow?

If I could eat any sandwich, regardless of it’s caloric content, it would be a chicken salad sandwich. It’s the ultimate comfort food, especially when served on fresh bread and enjoyed outside in the Savannah sunshine.  This recipe includes all the delicious flavors without all the fat. I added this recipe to my Pinterest board so I can whip it up next week.

Like most runners, I don’t spend enough time stretching or rolling out my sore muscles. Luckily, just in time for tomorrow’s long run, I found these seven foam roller exercises which are just the inspiration I need to dig out my foam roller and spend some quality time rolling on it this afternoon.

My friends at Brooks sent me the new Brooks Launch 3 to test out during my runs this week and I was blown away. They are light enough for my speed workouts at Mile High but supportive enough for long runs. I’ll do a more in-depth review after I’ve worn them for a few more runs but right now I’m in love with not only the fun, neon color but also the perfect mix of extra cushion and support.

I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t love Instagram for it’s bright pictures and easy to follow content. Regardless of whether you’re a blogger or not, it’s a great way to share snippets of your life or highlight your creative side. Evann shared a great post yesterday which highlights the ways she leverages five FREE apps to edit her photos.  Of the apps she recommended, I use SnapSeed the most but have downloaded the others so I can start testing them.

After growing my hair out for the past five years, I was desperately ready for a change. My hair wasn’t feeling healthy even afte regular trims and treatments. After testing it for a week, I can officially say that I’m in love with my new, shorter hairstyle. It’s far easier and feels like a healthy, fresh change for Spring. If you’re looking for a hair stylist, I can’t recommend Rebecca at Sara June enough. She’s a joy to work with and truly listens to her clients requests! (Yes mom, I will smile more in my pictures, I promise.)

short hair pic

 

After trying a few different mascara samples over the past few months, I finally returned to my favorite this week. For my short lashes, there is no better mascara than Benefit’s They’re Real. The brush lifts, lengthens and curls my lashes while the formula keeps them plump and full without clumping or drying. Unlike other mascaras I’ve tried, this mascara can easily be removed with eye makeup remover while still having the staying power to last through a hot yoga class.

A few weeks ago I mentioned that my girlfriend and I are heading to Jamaica in April for a much needed girls weekend away. A tropical, beach vacation means that I need a few new swimsuits. I tried on my swimsuits this week and fortunately for my body but unfortunately for my wallet, they are all too big. Since I am an A cup upstairs, I’ve been checking out a number of styles that flatter smaller chests. I have my eyes on this, this and this,  each of which are all on sale at Macys.  What’s your favorite swimsuit? Any suggestions? 

As I mentioned, this week was busier and more hectic than normal. Since my father-in-law is staying with us this weekend, I took advantage of Handy and booked a maid for this afternoon. Have you used Handy yet? A great website and app, Handy allows you to book professional cleaners, painters, plumbers and even Ikea furntiure assemblers with just a few clicks. Available in most major cities, you can save $35 off your first booking using this link.

handy

 

After a few months away, I returned to Y7 yoga studio last night with a few fellow ClassPass (<–Save $25 off your first month) ambassadors.  The lovely Kristen Nichols led us through a 60-minute fast-paced vinyasa flow. The studio is heated to around 85 degrees, dimly lit with candles and energized with music ranging from rap to house. The class was more challenging than I remembered but also the perfect way to release some stress and sweat with friends. If you’re worried about giving it a try because you’re new to yoga or out of practice, don’t worry! My friend Diana joined last night and LOVED it even though it was her first yoga practice in three years! They do a wonderful job creating a supportive space for people of all abilities, shapes and sizes.

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!

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