July 2016 - The FITTEST Issue

Fire Up the Grill

Vegetable and fruit dishes with a smoky twist

Calorie Crushers

Three cardio machines kick it into high gear

Dive In

Scuba spots in the city

Jordan Trudeau & Bethany Branham Overall Champions

Power,

Strength,

Speed,

Agility, And The

Shorts of the sUmmer Meanswear to beat the summer heat in style

JuLY 2016

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36 AFM

FITTEST WINNERS

Austin’s most athletic individuals and teams talk training, winning, and what it means to be fit.

The Good Stuff

X Games Goodbye / 15 A commemorative photo essay is our way of saying farewell to the X Games in Austin.

DEUS EX (CARDIO) MACHINA / 72

Treadmills and ellipticals are old news. Focus on functional fitness with three up-and-coming cardio machines.

cover and contents photos by Brian FItzsimmons; cover hair and makeup by Anastasia Miller, Rae Cosmetics

David Braswell, 2015 Men’s Overall Champion, 2-time Age group 30-39 Champion

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let’s kick it up a notch

T W O LO C AT I O N S A r b o r e t u m • We s t l a k e F I N D O U T M O R E AT purebarre.com • 512-574-8644 • austin@purebarre.com

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Highlights

76 Style

Nutrition

Running Shoe Review / 60

Vegetarian Grill Guide / 22

Grilled fruits and vegetables are the flavorful dishes your barbeque is missing.

Paleo f(x) Picks / 24

The annual Austin event draws in the latest healthy innovations. These are a few of our favorites.

Water You Drinking? / 26

56

When regular water tastes too bland or boring, try these alternatives to stay hydrated.

Culture

Austin’s Fastest / 28

The latest shoes from your favorite brands.

Wellness

Blister Busters / 64

Friction blisters are common among athletes; here’s how to help them heal.

Medical FAQ: Chiropractic / 68 Questions about back pain are answered by Dr. Matt Lowe.

Fitness

Five Ways to Lose Weight (Without a Diet or Gym) / 70

The FITTEST issue wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Austin’s fastest folks (in a car, that is.)

Tips to incorporate in your daily routine to help you keep extra weight at bay.

Keep Calm and Dive On / 32

Building the Connection / 76

Lake water levels are up, which makes it the perfect time to dive down.

Accessible Aquaponics / 34

This sustainable system is feeding the masses.

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Shorts of the Summer / 56

Menswear to help you beat the summer heat in style.

Train to become bigger, stronger, and faster usually involves using multijoint, larger total body movements.

These exercises help strengthen your full kinetic chain.

Events / 78 Rides + Races / 80 Discover! / 82

photography by Weston Carls

24

Editor’s Letter / 10 Contributors / 12 #KeepAustinFit / 14 Exposure / 16

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Editor’S lETTER

THE LIST

MAPPY HOUR

Keep Austin Fit, Gretchen Goswitz, Managing Editor

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A BOX OF...

Distinctly unique chocolates made by Delysia.

We tried a box of assorted truffles and were surprised with flavors like cornbread molasses, cabernet sauvignon, and bourbon pecan.

All were delicious!

MOON MADNESS

I recently attended a workshop focused on balancing yin and yang energy and the influence of moon phases in our life.

Countless medical studies have shown the full moon effects our health. More information to come in future issues of AFM!

photography by Jason Lehecka; Weston Carls

T

wo years ago, I was (so graciously) hired by Weston Carls to work for Austin Fit Magazine. He brought me on as his unpaid intern, to assist him in the creative process, edit photos, and run social media accounts.

At that time, the team was putting together the AFM FITTEST issue for 2014, and Weston brought me along to the winners’ photoshoot. It was my introduction to Austin’s fitness realm, and it changed everything for me. My role, albeit menial, was enthralling. (I was in charge of rubbing baby oil on everyone!)

Since then, so much has changed. Thanks to a combination of hard work, an eagerness to learn, a passion for fitness, and a little bit of luck and good timing, I was promoted to editor. But this seems to be the case in many of the stories we cover–especially with the AFM FITTEST winners. Although there were quite a few who showed up for the first time and successfully claimed their title, others like Alison Gardner and overall winner Bethany Branham earned this accolade by competing in the AFM FITTEST more than once and improving each year.

Of course, it’s equally challenging to be crowned first place and defend the title. Kathleen Parker, who is among one of the most radiant and encouraging people you will ever encounter, is a five-time winner of her age division. She may be in her 50s, but I’ve seen her run faster and jump higher than many women in their 20s. David Braswell is a three-time individual winner and–based on what I’ve heard in interviews–is the ultimate threat at this competition. To be the best, it helps to train with the best, which is why winners like Kent Smith and Team JET praise Braswell for being a resource in their preparation for the AFM FITTEST. This issue consistently proves to me that age really is just a number. You’re never “too old” to be active, and that’s something we want to emphasize through the AFM FITTEST. If you need inspiration to get off the couch or set a new goal, read any (or all) of these profiles.

Outdoor enthusiasts and fitness fanatics gathered at Kammock HQ for an evening of beer, maps, and adventure planning. Spectrum Trail Racing introduced us to the best trails in and around Austin.

(I may have also done some quality assurance hammock testing while I was there.)

Letia Payne

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Contributors

Thank you to AFM’s contributors who make this magazine a worthy source of health and fitness information in Austin.

DEVYN BERNAL

Devyn Bernal recently made the move to Austin after spending most of her life in Dallas. Having studied journalism at the University of Alabama and University of North Texas, her focus is writing and editing. Her number one goal is to stay active, whether that's here in Austin or in a new city across the country. When she is in town, she's researching a new story or doing events for Mighty Swell Cocktails. In between, she enjoys mystery novels, craft beer, classic movies, and running.

DARRYL PAYNE, JR.

Darryl Payne, Jr., a graduate of Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, is a supervisor chef at the Red River Tavern in Hotel Indigo's downtown Austin location as well as a personal chef with a mission to deliver good, upscale food through affordable means. When Darryl is not behind the knife cooking in a kitchen, he can be found on a track in Austin or at the gym training for a professional career in track and field. Food and fitness influences his faith and positively directs his behavior on a level that transcends even his own understanding. It is the fuel and the very purpose behind his lifestyle: Try Anything.

Do Not Be Outworked. Never Stop. @DarrylPayneJr

Kelsey Brown

Kelsey Brown started teaching group fitness at the age of 18 as a way to share the joy and selfconfidence she found through exercise. She earned a bachelor’s of science in kinesiology and is currently pursuing a master’s in health behavior and health education at the University of Texas. Kelsey has trained at multiple gyms, from California to Texas, teaching cycling, Pilates, boot camp and strength training classes. She currently teaches at Kor180 and the Fitness Institute of Texas.

Her passion for fitness lies in its ability to transform not just one’s physical health, but their mental and emotional wellness and quality of life.

Publisher/CEO Louis M. Earle COO/Associate Publisher Alex Earle Managing eDITOR Gretchen Goswitz Creative Director Weston Carls Advertising Consultants Betty Davis, Kristin Nelson, Andrea Rayner Operations & Content Coordinator Devyn Bernal Production Assistant Anna Wanzek Writers Carrie Barrett, Devyn Bernal, Kelsey Brown, Devaney Devoe, Taylor Freetage, Darryl Payne, Jr., DIane Vives Proofreader Rick Antoine Photographer Brian Fitzsimmons Interns Devaney Devoe, Taylor Freetage, Kirbie Koonse

CARRIE BARRETT

Carrie is a USAT Level 1 Certified Coach, Director of Marketing at Austin Aquatics & Sports Academy, author of two books on triathlon, and a Specialized Women ambassador. Her mission? Break down those fears and motivate others to face and overcome your own fears, whether it’s buying your first pair of running shoes or finishing yet another Ironman distance race.

General Inquiries info@austinfitmagazine.com Advertising Inquiries ads@austinfitmagazine.com 512.407.8383 editorial Submissions gretchen@austinfitmagazine.com fitfocus@austinfitmagazine.com Event Listings austinfitmagazine.com/events Subscriptions austinfitmagazine.com/subscribe 2499 S Capital of Texas HW Y., B200 Austin, TX 78746 p 512.407.8383 Austin Fit Magazine assumes no responsibility for the content of articles or advertisements, in that the views expressed therein may not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or any magazine employee or contributor.

This publication and all of its contents are copyrighted.

Austin Fit Magazine is the assumed name of its publisher, Louis M. Earle, who has no interest in the business of Denis Calabrese who operates an exercise program under the assumed name of Austin Fit, which trains individuals to improve their jogging or running skills to participate in marathons. The views, opinions and other representations published in Austin Fit Magazine are not those of Austin Fit or any of its directors, officers, employees or agents.

Please recycle this magazine

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LOEWY LAW FIRM Hunger doesn’t take a summer vacation, which is why we’re sponsoring the Central Texas Food Bank’s Summer Meals That Matter campaign. This summer, we’re challenging Central Texans to raise one million meals for local children, and we’re giving you the chance to triple your impact.

During the week of July 15th – 21st, we will match your online gift three-to-one, up to $25,000!

Your gift will ensure local children and families have consistent access to healthy food throughout the summer months. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to triple your impact on hunger!

#KeepAustinFit

austinfitmagazine.com

We're more than just a monthly publication. Join us online and on our social networks to see the additional awesomeness we're up to.

Workout Video AFM trainer Diane Vives

photo by Weston Carls

photo by Brian Fitzsimmons

provides tips on how to strengthen the muscles that play a large role in creating power and transferring force. Follow along with this video as Vives coaches Sarah Brannon of Mecca Gym through these series of movements.

GET TO THE GRILL

This month, instead of giving you only one recipe, we’ve included three! Plus, you can find a few extra grill tips and flavor recommendations. Fire up the grill and head to austinfitmagazine.com.

14 austinfItmagazine.com / 07. 16

Who Wears Short Shorts?

For more of our favorite men’s shorts picks–and where to shop locally for them–check out the extended version on our website.

A Variety Show of Trending Topics

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exposure // 2016 X Games

2016 X Games

Did you know?

Austin made X Games history this year by hosting the youngest competitor ever.

Eleven-year-old Brighton Zeuner took fourth place in women’s Skateboard Park.

In 2014, Austin welcomed the hype and sensational athletes of the X Games. The whirlwind tour is moving to a new city next year, so this summer served as a bittersweet sendoff. Farewell, X Games–thanks for the memories.

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photo by Kurt Bradley

In between events, riders of all sizes, ages, and specialties would entertain the crowd with fun showcases throughout the park.

Photography by Kurt Bradley & Weston Carls

Levi Sherwood

photo by Weston Carls

Athletes came from all over the world to meet at X Games Austin. New Zealander and Moto X rider Levi Sherwood was just one of many international athletes competing this year.

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On average, Moto X bikes weigh about the same as a refrigerator.

Kevin Peraza—another competitor who rides Park and Dirt—is on the rise. Coming from a family with three brothers and a father who all ride BMX, he had plenty of support growing up and training for these events. Although he didn’t have a podium finish at the park, Peraza secured his first X Games gold medal at BMX Dirt.

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

19

Austin X Games’ final hurrah didn’t quite play out as hoped.

Saturday’s storm caused all activity to come to a halt. Sunday was disappointing for attendees as well as the athletes when both BMX and Skateboard Big Air competitions were cancelled due to heavy winds.

photography by Kurt Bradley

Four-time X Games gold medalist Kyle Baldock took third place at BMX Park. Baldock, whose expertise is in BMX Dirt, is proving to be a formidable opponent in both events.

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*The following recipes are written assuming the reader is using a wood burning/ charcoal grill.

Nutrition

Red meats, chicken, and fish are great for the grill, but vegetarian dishes can also be enhanced by a kiss of flame. By Darryl Payne, Jr.

Korean Eggplant Tacos What You Need

1 Large Eggplant 3/4 cup gochujang (fermented chile paste) 3 pineapple rings 1 cup green cabbage, shredded 1 cup red cabbage, shredded 1 Fresno pepper or jalapeùo ½ lime, juiced 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped Salt and pepper Tortillas

Find these additional recipes online!

Maple Peach and Mascarpone; Charred Tomato and Grilled Corn Salad Toast

How to Make It

1. Start by cutting the eggplant into thick, frylike sticks that are about two to three inches in length. Toss in the fermented chile paste and allow them to marinate for about 30 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, combine the cabbage, pepper, lime juice, cilantro, and salt and pepper to taste for the slaw.

3. Grill the eggplant on each side until heated through, about two minutes total. Grill the pineapple rings until they get a nice, dark grill mark on both sides.

4. Place the eggplant on a warm tortilla first and follow up with slaw and chopped pineapple.

Tips from the Grill Master

*Eggplant should be grilled on the side of the flame to get a low heat applied to it. The response of eggplant to savory sauces is unparalleled, so try rubbing a garlic puree or mild harissa before grilling this purple veggie.

photo by Weston Carls

*Pineapple may be grilled directly over the flame. Teriyaki sauce is a classic grilling companion for grilled pineapple.

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Nutrition

Paleo f(x) Picks

By Gretchen Goswitz

SWEETS & SNACKS

Bubba’s Fine Foods Snack mix, $9 • bubbasfoods.com • Dairy free, soy free, gluten free, grain free, preservative free, no refined sugars For clean eaters who don’t have a weakness for sweets, but instead crave more savory snacks, Bubba’s got it covered.

The snack mix varieties mimic the taste and crunch of potato chips by using banana chips, pecans, and cashews, and coating them in seasonings to create flavors like chipotle honey BBQ and ranch.

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BEAUTY

Mother Dirt AO+Mist, $49 • motherdirt. com • Preservative-free, fragrance-free, kid-friendly, sensitive skin-friendly Bacteria always got a bad rap when it came to skin care, until Mother Dirt came along. The AO+ Mist contains live AmmoniaOxidizing bacteria, best used on the sweatiest areas of your body to help keep a healthy pH on skin. Think of it as a super toner, deodorant replacement, and soap substitute all in one.

Fatco Pit Spritz, $12 • Fat Stick, $10 • fatco.com • Preservativefree, kid-friendly, sensitive skin-friendly Settle your stink with pit spritz! This natural deodorizer smells like apple cider vinegar at application, but quickly fades as it neutralizes body odor. Fatco also makes cleansing oil, face cream, hair oil, and pregnancy/ baby-safe products. Another standout is the Fat Stick, which serves as lip balm, cuticle cream, and a lotion stick in a half-ounce tube.

Sauna Space

photography by Weston Carls

Pocket Sauna, $1,000 • saunaspace.com The near-infrared lamp sauna combines the heat therapy of traditional saunas with the deep healing power that comes from sunlight’s near-infrared light band. Sauna

Space’s benefits include athletic performance enhancement, accelerated wound and muscle healing, reduced fat and cellulite formation, improved cognitive function, increased longevity, and detox of petrochemicals and heavy metals. Still on the fence about it? Sauna Space gives a 100-day trial period to decide if it suits you.

SWEETS & SNACKS

Taza Chocolate Amaze Bars, $5 • tazachocolate.com • Dairy free, soy free, gluten free, vegan, organic, non-GMO Taza was the first American chocolatier to establish a third-party certified Direct Trade Cacao Certification program. In short, they got rid of the middleman to provide a more wholesome product. Taza’s Amaze Bars use 60 percent dark stone ground chocolate and mix it with tasty flavors like raspberry, coconut, and almond.

Ona Cookies Single cookie pack, $3 • wbkitchen.com Dairy free, soy free, gluten free, certified organic, nonGMO, fair trade ingredients The Ona Bars are a soft and chewy blend of organic nuts and honey. Ona Bars are full of healthy fats and clean ingredients and are sure to satisfy your appetite and sweet tooth. Sweetened only with

honey, filled with organic nuts and coconut oil, Ona Bars eliminate the spike and crash effect commonly associated with refined sugars and fruit sweetened bars.

BREAD SUBSTITUTES

Siete Family Foods Two packs of 8 tortillas, $22 • sietefoods.com • Dairy free, soy free, gluten free, grain free, non-GMO, preservative free Let’s be real. Going paleo in Austin is painful when you realize how many breakfast tacos you’ll be missing out on. However, with Siete, you can continue to indulge.

They offer almond flour tortillas, as well as a cassava flour option. Ideal for cooking or snacking, the tortillas taste, fold, and hold like a tortilla should.

MuffinElse Single serving, $3 • muffinelse.com • Dairy free, soy free, gluten free, grain free, preservative free, certified paleo These mug muffins are perfect for a paleo person on the go. Your diet doesn’t

have to be compromised if you don’t have the time to prep every meal. Pour the MuffinElse mix into a mug, add four tablespoons of water, then pop into the microwave for 90 seconds.

With flavors like cinnamon rising, double chocolate, nutty maple, and pecan clover (made of only eight ingredients), it’s an extra win in the taste department, too.

Individual, $7-8 • paleopowderseasoning. com • Whole30 approved Add an extra kick to your meats and veggies with these paleo-approved all purpose seasonings. Two of the four offerings are saltfree, so it’s also a flavorful option for anyone watching their sodium intake.

Awesome Bunz

FAVORITE NEWCOMER

Six-pack, $10 • foxhillkitchens.com • Soy free, dairy free, grain free, low-carb, ketogenic, non-GMO Summer is here, which means backyard burgers are a must. With Awesome Bunz, lettuce wraps are no longer the only low-carb option for cookouts.

They’re made with fresh ingredients, so they have to be kept refrigerated or frozen but easily thaw and take to a toaster.

SEASONINGS

Paleo Powder

Desert Farms Camel Milk • No hormones, pasture raised, non-GMO, gluten free, BPA free Technically, this is a dairy product, and dairy isn’t compliant with the paleo diet. Many are making the exception though, because camel’s milk is said to be suitable for those with lactose intolerance and is much easier to digest than cow or goat milk. Common in the Middle East, it’ll be interesting to see how Americans respond to it on the shelves. After all, it’s not too different than what we’re used to—it tastes like, well, milk! afm

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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Nutrition

Water You Drinking?

The taste of water can be bland, but we can’t risk dehydration in the Texas summer heat. Satisfy your taste buds with these water alternatives. By Devyn Bernal

W

ith summer at full blast every time we walk outside, get in our car, or even in our attempt to save money on the AC bill, it is imperative that we stay hydrated. But what if you don’t like drinking water? Alternatives like sports drinks are packed with sugar or unnatural ingredients, so it can be a task to find a good replacement. Fortunately, there are a handful of brands breaking into the market with healthy, flavorful water-based drinks.

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REPLACEMENT LOVE HANDLES

WTRMLN WTR At 92 percent water, the aptly-named watermelon is refreshing in food and drink form. This slightly sweet hydrator not only makes the perfect pre- or post-workout beverage to reduce muscle soreness, but it also touts benefits as a libido booster and beauty elixir. WTRMLN WTR is filled to the brim with electrolytes that aid in recovery, and vitamin A to promote tissue growth.

... IN CASE YOU LOSE YOURS IN THE PROCESS

R

FITNESS

INDOOR ROWING

DrinkMaple

Suja

Suja’s line of cold-pressed probiotic waters are among the first ever enhanced water made with nothing but the freshest fruits and vegetables. Low in sugar and calories, Suja is the ideal drink for anyone who wants their water to pack a punch of flavor, without sacrificing nutritional value.

The probiotics provide a boost to your immune and digestive system, while hydrating you for the day’s activities. With flavors like raspberry, ginger lime, pineapple lemon cayenne, and orange ginger cayenne, bland water in your diet will be a thing of the past.

We’re all familiar with the trees that produce maple syrup, but did you know the same tree can create water? What’s more, is that the sap it produces carries 46 healthy nutrients.

Described as “untouched, unspoiled, unboiled,” maple water is low calorie, gluten-free, dairy-free, and non-GMO, making it a prime alternative to plain water. A by-product of maple sap sounds like it would be overbearingly sweet, but it actually only holds half the sugar found in coconut water, and boasts more manganese than a cup of kale (a powerful antioxidant that helps with thyroid health and blood sugar control). In the process, no trees are harmed, and they are sustainably tapped to allow for many years of eco-friendly water supply.

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Koa

This natural Olakino is the healthiest juice squeezed from fruits and vegetables; it keeps all the good stuff and gets rid of the bad. Because it’s made this way, it’s technically a juice, not a water.

However, the drink is clear, zero calories, and the flavor is light, so it’s not too far off from water.

Each bottle promises to be purified by nature and made up from 11 fresh pieces of produce. For a faint yet delicious aftertaste, try Koa’s Raspberry or Lavender flavors. Koa includes vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and antioxidants without any additives. The bottle is 100 percent biodegradable and recyclable, taking the extra step to provide a sustainable product. afm 07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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CULTURE

Austin’s Fastest Two Austin-based drag racing champions steer in a successful direction

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Alexis DeJoria

Four-time Funny Car winner Residence: Dripping Springs, Texas Husband: Jesse James Daughter: Isabella DOB: September 24, 1977 Height/Weight: 5’8”, 130 pounds

Tony Schumacher

Eight-time Top Fuel world champion Residence: Austin, Texas Wife: Cara Children: Anthony, Michael and Jacqueline DOB: December 25, 1969 Height/Weight: 5’8”, 158 pounds

Hair: Transformation Salon; Makeup: Ultimate Face Cosmetics photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

On Track Accomplishments: - Driver of the U.S. Army Top Fuel Dragster for Don Schumacher Racing - Made first start in Top Fuel in 1996 U.S. Nationals in Indy - Won his first championship in 1999 - Won six consecutive championships from 2004 - 2009 - Won his eighth championship in 2014 - All-time leading winner in Top Fuel with 80 victories In his own words: “In this business so much of it is mental. If I am mentally prepared to go into battle, I have a great chance of winning. To be mentally prepared, my body has to be physically prepared. I put my time in the gym keeping myself toned through repetition.

Push-ups. Pull-ups. I work on cardio a couple days a week. You have to remember I only work six minutes a year. Well, that’s all the time I’m in the car, but I put in the preparation so that I can be at my best for every one of those seconds. Mentally strong and physically fit.”

“Diet is important. I’m 46 years-old and my body can’t handle things it may have 20 years ago, heck even 10 years ago. Again, it’s all about preparation. I’m in the car Friday, Saturday and Sunday. What I do Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday is what helps me perform at my best.”

“The other thing about my job is that I represent the U.S. Army and have been asked to be part of several of their training activities. Jumping from airplanes. Firing rounds of ammunition. And the same is true in that environment. You have to be prepared both mentally and physically.”

By the Numbers: 4: Funny Car wins 4: No. 1 starts 10,000: amount of horsepower Alexis’ Tequila Patrón Toyota Camry Funny Car produces 332.18: Alexis’ fastest speed (mph) 5: No. of years Alexis has competed in the Funny Car category 11: No. of years Alexis has competed in the NHRA 771: Alexis’ car number 3.875: number of seconds it takes Alexis to cover 1,000-feet in her nitro Funny Car 5: No. of g-forces Alexis feels when launching her Patrón Funny Car -6: No. of negative g-forces Alexis experiences after pulling her parachutes at the end of a run 24: No. of races in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series 2: No. of times the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series visits the state of Texas (Houston & Dallas) Additional Accomplishments: - Made first start in Funny Car in September 2011 at the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals in Dallas - Has finished in the Top Ten in the past two years - First woman to break the four-second barrier in the Funny Car category - First female to compete in 100 Funny Car events (2016 season-opener, Pomona, Calif.)

- Only driver to have wins in each the SuperComp, Top Alcohol Funny Car, and Funny Car categories - Won the prestigious U.S. Nationals - First person to make a test lap at Austin’ Circuit of the Americas - Races for Kalitta Motorsports In Her own words: “Our sport is just as much mental as it is physical, yet it is very important for me to stay fit in mind, body and soul. I do a combination of cardio, weight training and yoga to balance everything out. It’s important for me to do upper body strength training in order to be able to combat the race car when cylinders get dropped and all of that extra horsepower and pressure is being pushed to one side or the other.”

“It’s very easy to stay fit in Austin. It’s one of the ‘fittest’ cities I’ve ever lived in. There’s such a wide selections of places to go, and things to do, to help maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle.”

“I try to eat very healthy on the road, as well as at home. I eat lots of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and I also drink a lot of green juices.”

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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CULTURE

New to Austin Studios and stores for fitness-minded folks

DivaDance 1700 S. Lamar Blvd. #338 DivaDance classes feature easy-to-learn choreography for all levels of dance experience. Come with your squad OR solo—just be prepared to let your hair down for an hour of pure fun! Each sexy, sweaty class kicks off with a full-body warm-up and stretch, followed by choreography to the latest hits (and a few classic favorites) and finally ending with a cooldown. Classes will occasionally be presented as a four-week series in which participants have the option to perform for friends and family in a future recital (tutus optional).

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BlackbirdFitnessAndNutrition.com

Serasana 3801 N. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite E-120 Serasana, a wellness studio that blends yoga, acupuncture, massage, and healing teas, is blending relaxation and fitness at its new location near West Lake Hills. Serasana, meaning “to be healthy,” offers services and time-tested practices to promote wellness and manage stress.

Serasana’s mission is for people of all ages and fitness levels to embrace better health for body, mind, and spirit.

The studio implements four specific practices along with classes and workshops to assist clients in their personal transformation. Set in an upscale yet approachable environment that incorporates natural materials such as bamboo and raw brass, Serasana locations portray an ancient elegance with modern appeal.

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CULTURE

Keep Calm and Dive On

By Carrie Barrett

Mammoth Lake

“No doubt, the recent rains have been great for scuba diving in Central Texas,” confirmed Kirk Stolzenburg, Manager of Tom's Dive and Swim.

“People love full lakes. It gets them excited to be out there and in the water once again!”

It goes without saying that Austinites are thrilled to, once again, have full lakes and a green city. There were those, like me, who were obsessed with visiting the website, isthelakefullyet.com, and anxiously awaited the moment that the “Nope” switched to “Yep.” Social media cheers and updates rang out like a Fourth of July fireworks party, and you could almost hear the boat engines firing up the moment this occurred.

Now that lake lovers can once again visit their favorite hotspots like Windy Point, Mansfield Dam, and Hippie Hollow, scuba divers, too, are excitedly seeking their escape below the surface of the now full waters. (albeit with more clothes than our friends at Hippie Hollow!)

It's Not a Competitive Sport—It's a Lifestyle

F

or those who have never gone scuba diving, the prevailing fear revolves mostly around breath control and proper use of the equipment. SCUBA, after all, does stand for “Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus.” Just those big words strung together alone can bring out the panic in most newbies.

(The second biggest fear is sharks, but if you're

32 austinfItmagazine.com / 07. 16

diving Central Texas lakes, you can leave those fears at home).

“If we can alleviate the breathing anxiety, we'll have someone hooked on the lifestyle in no time,” Stolzenburg said. “We have qualified instructors who love to help people of all ages and love to blow bubbles underwater, and the good thing is, this lifestyle isn't limited by age or gender.”

They certify divers as young as ten years old, and the demographics are very even between male and female divers these days.”

Fortunately, most diving companies (Aqualung, for instance) have caught on and now design equipment and gear specifically for women and younger divers making that barrier to entry much less intimidating and uncomfortable.

Stolzenburg describes scuba like a yoga practice. “It's zen-like,” he said. “In the same way that you slow your breathing in yoga, you do the same with scuba diving.” People who dive on a regular basis love the lifestyle that comes along with it, and, John McAlpin, who is head of the Austin Aquanauts Dive Club, leads this lifestyle for the 200 plus members in his club here in Austin.

While they may hesitate to call it a competitive sport, both McAlpin and Stolzenburg do tout the fitness benefits of scuba diving, especially the fact that you burn 25 percent more calories in water than you do on land.

They also recommend getting as fit as possible before learning how to dive. The gear is not

Bonaire

light and usually weighs in around 30 to 50 pounds. While you don't feel that in the water, it is a load you must be comfortable with in training and on shore. Plus, the lighter you are, the less air you will go through on your dives.

Among the many other benefits of a diving lifestyle they profess: • It's a social event! You dive on a buddy system, so you're never alone.

• People who dive are typically passionate about nature, the outdoors, and seeing the world from a completely different perspective.

• Divers love to travel and share their experiences with others.

• Diving is one of the best ways to unplug from the noise of real life. No one can find you when you're 60 feet below the surface of the water watching a turtle eat its lunch.

• It's a great family activity. Not only is it fun and relaxing, but it's also educational.

• Even if you're visiting the same spot, there's always something new to see.

• Most dive shops are incredibly supportive and help you along the way.

• The Aquanauts event host regular “Bubble Hours” with trips to local hotspots during the week.

Most importantly, divers are generous, philanthropic, and supportive. The organization Eels on Wheels is an adaptive scuba program

Cozumel

Texas Diving Hot Spots and Upcoming Aquanauts Trips Lake Travis—Windy Point: (windypointpark.com) Divers will find boat wrecks and metal sculptures of a scuba diver, a sea turtle, a shark, a manatee, and other interesting underwater objects. This is also a popular spot for your certification.

created in Austin to provide people the opportunity to dive at their own ability level by certifying divers through the Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA). This nonprofit helps meet the needs of virtually anyone wishing to be a scuba diver regardless of any mental or physical limitation.

Where to Begin?

S

o, what's not to love about a lifestyle sport that involves travel, nature, and meeting new people? If that “fear of the unknown” still makes you a little weary, Tom's Dive and Swim invites you to try one of their complimentary “Intro to Scuba” classes! You'll schedule a time to experience underwater breathing with one of their certified instructors and will have a chance to ask questions, learn more about the process, and take those first steps to a new hobby.

From there, you are likely to register for an “Intro to Scuba” course taught by one of their instructors through the very prestigious SSI (Scuba Schools International). These in-depth classes prepare you both in their training pool, classroom, and finally in the open water in Lake Travis.

They also offer a wide range of refresher courses, safety, water rescue, and advanced diving courses as well.

Next thing you know, you'll be heading off on regular adventures with the Aquanauts to some of Texas' best diving locations! afm

Athens Scuba Park: (athensscubapark.com) Divers will explore a 60' Hawker 600 Jet, three 30' sail boats, three cabin cruisers, a Lockheed C-140 Jet Star, a triple-deck party barge, and a DART bus.

Flower Gardens: (flowergarden.noaa. gov/visiting/divecharters.html) Located in Freeport, Texas, near Galveston, the Flower Gardens are the northern-most coral reef in the world.

South Padre Island: (sopadre.com) Explore the Texas Clipper, a 473' long World War II troop transport which is 17 miles offshore 132 feet below the surface or Seana's Rig rich in coral, barnacles, and tiny sea life.

Valhalla: (familyscuba.com) Dive deep in the heart of an old nuclear missile silo!

Mammoth Lake Water Park: (mammothlakewaterpark.com) Explore a military C-130 cargo plane, firetrucks, and the remnants of Houston’s famous theme park AstroWorld.

For More Information

Tom's Dive and Swim: tomsscuba.com for details on classes and the “Intro to Scuba” hour Eels on Wheels Adaptive Scuba Program: eels.org Austin Aquanauts Dive Club: facebook.com/AustinAquanauts

Two Other Dive Shops in Austin

Scuba Land Adventures: scubaland.com Dive World: diveshopaustin.com

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

33

CULTURE

Accessible Aquaponics

By Devaney Devoe

A

quaponics are growing in the area and have recently gained commercial traction as they offer many benefits that are not found within traditional farming. Austin, or Texas in general, is known to have extreme weather. From the 100 degree summers and the unpredictable hail storms, to the numerous floods and long droughts, Austin farms struggle due to these extremities and inconsistencies. Aquaponic models can act as a solution to the challenges that many Central Texas farmers face.

Jack Waite is the founder and president of one of Austin’s large scale aquaponic systems, Agua Dulce. Waite is also the Director of Urban Organics, a nonprofit organization that focuses on sustainable agriculture.

Through Agua Dulce, Waite is able to use his knowledge of biology with over

34 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

ten years of experience in management, finance, and fundraising to run a company that is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle with sustainable, healthy, and delicious food.

Aquaponics is a food production system that relies on fishponds to mimic the natural symbiotic relationship between fish and plants found in lakes, ponds, and rivers. The effluents from aquatic animals are used by plants as food, and the plants in turn purify the water for the fish, creating a balanced system. The result from this controlled environment is clean-water fish and vegetables free of pesticides and herbicides.

Although the concept sounds simple, each component exists in a delicate balance.

“Even organically certified pesticides and herbicides can destroy this balance,” said Waite.

At Agua Dulce Farm, there are over 2,000 fish feeding about 10,000 plants. Waite must constantly monitor the water’s pH level, temperature, and dissolved oxygen content. These levels of water circulation, greenhouse conditions, and types of crops vary depending on the time of year.

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“Maintaining an aquaponic system takes a lot of practice to master the art, a lot of studying to master the science, and a lot of patience for all the times you're going to screw it up,” said Waite.

Regardless of the chance for error, health benefits are absolutely worth the amount of time and work that are invested when the practice is finally mastered.

Several Austin restaurants, such as Uchi, Uchiko, Odd Duck, Juiceland, and many other Austin favorites, have latched on to this newer food production system. Agua Dulce provides some restaurants with their incredibly fresh tasting fish, but Waite says the big sellers are the vegetables, especially leafy greens like kale, chard, arugula, leaf lettuces, Bibb lettuces, and Romaine lettuces because they thrive year round in an aquaponic system.

Aside from the health benefits for consumers, aquaponics provide environmental advantages as well as making food production more financially attainable for farmers. These systems surprisingly use 90 percent less water than traditional farming, lowering water costs, yet grow six times more food per square foot. Plants happen to grow twice as fast due to the naturally fortified water from the fish.

Aquaponics are not restricted to

commercial farmers and can easily be created and maintained at home. Aquaponics use minimal resources and can be done within a small area any time of the year. This system relies on recycled water and therefore can produce food during droughts or in areas that have little access to water.

Due to this water-reliant process, there is no farmland or fertile soil needed, which also means no weeding. Not only do aquaponic systems preserve water usage and provide year-round food sources, they also use less energy than conventional farming.

Aquaponics use grow lights which rely on alternate energy systems such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

No harmful fertilizers are used within these food production systems, which prevents harmful chemicals from running into watershed. Commercial farmers typically use fertilizers and these excess chemicals eventually make their way into our lakes and rivers. Aquaponics eliminate these harmful effects for the environment.

With several health benefits for consumers, financially attainable food production for farmers, and various environmental advantages, maintaining an aquaponics system could become the next popular hobby among Austinites. afm 07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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Jordan Trudeau Overall and Age Group Champion ∂∂ Men 20–29

2016 AFM FITTEST CHAMPIONS The AFM FITTEST is an annual competition comprised of ten tests measuring strength, agility, power, balance, and endurance. Every year, there are hundreds of competitors, but only a handful of winners.

36 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

hair and makeup by Anastasia Miller, Rae Cosmetics

Bethany Branham Overall and Age Group Champion ∂∂ Women 20–29

Meet the ten individuals and three teams who emerged victorious. photography by Brian FItzsimmons

Jordan Trudeau

Overall and Age Group Champion ∂∂ Men 20–29 How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? One. What inspired you to compete? I saw it in the magazine, and then I saw the results and I knew I could hit those numbers. My boss really wanted me to do it so I told him, “If you sign me up, I’ll do it.”

Favorite test? The vertical and med ball toss, because I knew I’d do well.

Least favorite test? Mystery test 2.

If you could add your own test, what would it be? A broad jump.

What’s your diet like? I eat everything as long as it’s in the range of being healthy. I don’t really restrict anything from my diet. I get a lot of protein, a lot of carbs, and I try to do my best with vegetables. I consume a lot of calories—probably more than most people. If I had to guess I eat about 3,500 to 4,000 calories a day.

Did you prepare specifically for the AFM FITTEST or did you just rely on your regular training routine? I started conditioning more for the mile and working on pull-ups so I could get more reps there.

What goals did you set for yourself? To win overall. And, not to come in last at the mile, because I’m not a distance runner.

In your own words, what defines a fit person? Someone who is an all-around athlete. Balanced, strong, powerful, agile, good muscle endurance, good range of motion. Coordination and good genes, too.

38 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

How did you feel on event day?

Nervous. I saw David Braswell there and assumed he would do well. I wasn’t sure about last year’s winner [Taylor Johnson] because he wasn’t in my group. But the guys I did compete with looked pretty fit, so that made me nervous. After we got through some of the tests I felt better, though.

How would you pitch the AFM FITTEST to somebody who’s unsure about competing? Look at past results, do some of the tests and if you feel good about it then go for it. Doesn’t hurt to try!

What or who motivates you?

The guys I work with at HIT Center, especially my boss Brett. He was the one who signed me up and kept encouraging me to do it. After last year’s AFM FITTEST issue came out, I was amped up to do it, but throughout the year he’d work with me and make me train for it.

How has your fitness regimen changed with age? The more I learn the more it changes. When I was in college, everything was isolated. I’d do chest one day, legs one day, arms one day. But your body works better as a whole, so I start doing more fullbody movement.

Bethany Branham

Overall and Age Group Champion ∂∂ Women 20–29 How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? Two. How have the previous years gone for you? Last year, I got third overall.

What do you think kept you from first place last year? The softball throw—I don’t have hand-eye coordination skills. I got only two out of 20!

What inspired you to compete? I’ve watched it for many years, but what I like about the AFM FITTEST is that it focuses on different aspects that make up fitness.

Favorite test? I actually didn’t mind the mile run.

I know I don’t look like a runner but that’s what I did back in high school.

I also liked the second mystery test.

Least favorite test?

The battle ropes were terrible.

hair and makeup by Anastasia Miller, Rae Cosmetics

If you could add your own test, what would it be? An AirDyne for time and calories.

What’s your diet like? I eat baby food throughout the day. I don’t have a lot of time to eat, so I eat protein bars and baby food and then I’ll have a big meal. Usually I’ll eat a burger for dinner—with cheese, bacon, bun, the works.

Did you prepare specifically for the AFM FITTEST or did you just rely on

your regular training routine? I was going to, but then time caught up to me. I stuck with my regular CrossFit training program because that pretty much covers it all.

What goals did you set for yourself? To do the best I could. That’s all I wanted to do. If it got me first place, awesome, but that wasn’t the goal. I just wanted to have fun. I love being out there, meeting new people, giving high-fives, and cheering everyone on.

In your own words, what defines a fit person? Someone that can do it all. That’s why I like the AFM FITTEST, because it really showcases athletic ability.

How did you feel on event day? Nervous.

What’s your next goal to achieve? I’m buckling down with CrossFit, and I’m trying to compete at a high level with that.

You ran the fastest mile and fastest interval run, but also placed top three in pull-ups and battle ropes. How do you find balance in speed, endurance and strength? You have to work on your weaknesses. I think genetics play a big part in it as well. CrossFit has helped me work on my weaknesses, and forces me to do the things I don’t want to do in order to be balanced.

What or who motivates you? My family. And my husband—he’s pushed me to do things I didn’t think I could do. I think a lot of it is self-motivation too.

Having a gymnastics background has helped also.

Family support is huge.

My family always comes out and supports me in no matter what I do.

How did the AFM FITTEST compare to your expectations? I did better than I thought! I thought I would do well but didn’t think I was going to win.

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

39

David Braswell

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Men 30–39 How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? All five years.

How many years have you won?

I won overall once, and my age group twice.

Which year felt the best? The first year, because I was in better shape. I was competing in track more regularly, so my legs felt conditioned.

Your first year competing felt the best, even though you didn’t win? That was the year of the notorious softball throw! I missed every single throw. There was no way to come back from those points. If it wasn’t for my bad throwing, I probably would’ve won or placed.

During the first year, I think I had the highest placements in each test than I have out of all of them, but that softball throw destroyed me because I got last place in it.

How has your workout regimen changed from year to year?

What are you trying to include or exclude in the future? I’m trying to stop taking breaks and include more consistency.

How does someone become a pull-up master? By doing a lot of pull-ups. I think the previous years have carried over for me, though.

I actually did less than I did last year as far as training. But I think it’s all about consistency. I would do pull-ups two to three times a week—so nothing crazy. But the pull-up workout in itself was long; the whole workout would be pull-ups.

How would you pitch the AFM FITTEST to someone who is unsure about competing? I would just say it’s a field day for adults.

Try to frame it in the most non-intimidating

40 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

way possible, so they can just think about having fun.

Last year, you said your goals for this year were: run a faster mile, improve on pull-ups, and stay healthy. How’d you do? I

did not improve on the mile, and I stayed consistent on pull-ups.

The mile was hard to improve because of what comes before it.

The tests before the mile change every year.

What are your goals for next year? Execute the things I messed up on this year. For example, I DQed on the first medicine ball throw. I didn’t get injured so I’m happy about that.

Has anything happened in the past year that affected your preparation? Life! We opened a gym in January, and business is hard. People think, “Oh you’re a trainer so you work out every day.” Not true. We’re just like everyone else. It’s hard to find time for yourself.

What’s your advice for someone who wants to compete in the individual and team division? Be really conditioned and be smart.

Whenever I’m competing as an individual, I don’t give it my everything because I know I have to compete in my team events. The interval run is a great example. A lot of guys stop at eight, instead of pushing for nine or ten so they can save energy.

In your own words, what defines a fit person? Someone who is well-rounded. You don’t have to be great at everything, because I don’t think that’s even possible.

Just be proficient in most things.

Tanya Tudor

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Women 30–39 How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? This was my first.

How did you find out about it? It might have been when I first moved to Austin and glimpsed at the magazine for the first time. As I got more involved with the fitness community, people would talk about it.

Where did you move from and when? I am originally from Barbados, but I moved to the Bay Area to get my master’s degree in in traditional Chinese medicine.

From there I moved to Austin.

What inspired you to compete? It looked like fun, and everyone said I should!

Favorite test? The 40-yard dash and the pull-ups.

Least favorite test? The battle ropes and the mile.

If you could add your own test, what would it be? A rope climb (with no legs).

What’s your diet like? I’ve always been pretty lucky in knowing what my body likes and doesn’t like. I don’t necessarily believe in restricting myself from anything. With that said, it’s just a balance of protein, carbs and fats. My diet is no one particular diet. I will go down on some pizza though.

What goals did you set for yourself? To do my best and have a really good time. I didn’t really read up or know much about the tests. I looked everything over the night before the event!

What is your regular training regimen? I go to Atomic Athlete a few times a week. I do yoga once a week, and a couple things on my own. I’m trying to get back into martial arts and rock climbing. I want to make those a more regular part of my routine.

In your own words, what defines a fit person? If you’re moving your body, and you’re feeling good about what you’re doing—if you’re feeling accomplished, no matter what that is—that’s fit.

How did you feel on event day? I felt great! All the women in my group were awesome. I didn’t know what to expect.

I didn’t know if they were going to be super competitive, so when I showed up and saw some familiar faces, I just had a ball.

What’s your next goal to achieve? I have two. I want to do the True Athlete Games again. The other is, take myself, my business, my brand, and my style of fitness a bit bigger.

How was the AFM FITTEST pitched to you? How would you pitch the fittest to somebody who’s unsure about competing? People who knew what the event was told me that most of the tests were in my wheelhouse. Honestly, for anyone going into it, just look at the 10 events and go for it. It was so light and easy with a healthy dose of competition.

Was there an event you were dreading? The mile! 200 meters is the longest I would like to run.

How’d you push yourself through it?

Music. Dancehall and calypso music is what I like to work out to.

Who or what motivates you? I don’t know if I have any one person. I am so lucky to know a lot of athletes on such a broad spectrum. You name it, I know someone who excels at it. I’ve had the chance on a regular basis—sometimes every day—to rub shoulders with them.

Heck, even my clients! I get inspired by so much around me.

Michael Mark

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Men 40–49 How many years have you competed in the AFM Fittest? This was my first year.

What inspired you to compete? I think every person has a desire to be better today than they were yesterday. I think it's deeply human. For me, sports are a great way to get instant and ongoing feedback on how I'm performing. Being able to test myself across a number of challenges and formidable competition is a perfect setting—head-to-head, with a judge watching, and nowhere to hide when things get hard.

Favorite test? The timed mile as the 10th and final challenge.

Least favorite test? The med ball toss. I just didn't practice enough.

If you could add your own test, what would it be?

An incline treadmill set to 30 percent, or timed box step-ups with weight to see who can go the farthest or complete the most steps.

Did you prepare specifically for the AFM FITTEST or did you just rely on your regular training routine? I was worried that the contest would favor CrossFitters, so that scared me into the gym twice just to get used to doing the wall ball toss and med ball push toss. I relied heavily on my training for obstacle racing to carry me through.

What goals did you set for yourself? I wanted to win; at least for my age group.

In your own words, what

42 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

defines a fit person?

Well, I think fitness encompasses strength, endurance, speed, agility, and mental fortitude.

How did you feel on event day? My body was good, and I was excited and a bit nervous.

What’s your next goal to achieve? I’m currently ranked second in the world for Spartan Race's Masters category. I'd like to hold my top three spot and get podiums at both the Spartan World Championships and Obstacle Course Racing World Championships, which are both held in October.

What or who motivates you? My dad instilled a deep confidence in my ability and supported me through both wins and losses. He was my biggest fan and I loved seeing the joy my success gave him.

He passed away a couple years ago, but my son, Lincoln, who just turned four years old gives me all the motivation I need to be the best possible version of myself—in competition and in life.

How has your fitness regimen changed as you’ve gotten older? I listen to my body and give it needed rest much

sooner than I used to.

By training smarter, I've actually been able to train harder. Although I played semi-professional baseball and college basketball years ago, I’m in the best shape of my life right now, and I plan to continue taking that to new levels.

Alison Gardner

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Women 40–49 How many years have you competed in the fittest?

This was my third year (2013, 2014, 2016).

How did you rank in the previous years? Top 10 in my age group.

Favorite test? Pull-ups.

Least favorite test? Battle ropes.

If you could add your own test, what would it be?

Handstand walking.

What’s your diet like? I’d say 90 to 95 percent clean and five percent “other.” I

don’t feel deprived. I just tried all sorts of eating habits in the past and a lot of them made me feel like I was missing out on something. Now I’ve gotten to the point where if I eat something that isn’t good for me, I can almost immediately feel it. So it’s not worth it and then I don’t miss it. I stay away from bread and pasta, and I’ll have maybe one or two drinks a week. It’s basically your typical paleo diet.

Did you prepare specifically for the AFM FITTEST or did you rely on your regular training routine? Regular training routine. I go to CrossFit Jääkarhu six or seven times a week. On Sundays I’ll do an active recovery or drills for movements I’m weak at.

I’m stronger now than I was in my 20s. And I’m certainly drinking the CrossFit Kool-aid, but it’s an incredible group of people who are incredibly supportive. I get about an hour to and hour and a half a day in the mornings. It’s the only time I have to myself without kids or work.

What goals did you set for yourself? I wanted to get more pull-ups than the past two times I’ve done it. Each year I go up by one, so we’ll see if

I can continue to do that.

I also wanted to win my age division.

How did you feel on event day? Curious to see how I would do compared to years past. One thing I’ve noticed from switching from running to CrossFit is that I’ve gotten stronger, but there are definitely some compromises with speed in my running. My running times have gone down but my strength has increased. For me, it’s about finding a balance I’m happy with.

In your own words, what defines a fit person? I think each person has to define feeling fit for themselves. If you feel good about the workouts you’re doing, and your body feels good, and you feel like you’re eating relatively well, that’s fit.

What or who motivates you? My kids motivate me.

I have three girls, ages six, nine, and ten. Watching their personalities and watching how they grow as individuals and athletes is really interesting. They do swimming and gymnastics, and I love going to their meets and watching their different sportsmanship come out.

It’s motivating to watch them excel and learn and shape themselves.

The other people who motivate me are all the people in my gym, which I consider to be an extended family. My coaches are just unbelievable athletes, and watching how they physically perform is amazing. Everyone there wants you to do well, so it’s a really encouraging place to be.

Brent Schroeder

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Men 50–59 How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? What inspired you to compete? This is my first year. I love competing.

I saw it come up on my e-mail one day and jumped on it.

Favorite test? Probably either the pull-ups or the agility shuttle.

Least favorite test?

The vertical jump.

I’m not a very good vertical jumper.

If you could add your own test, what would it be? Probably something with kettlebells.

Either a push press or a Russian swing for time, or something along those lines.

What is your diet like?

Fairly strict. Mostly protein—a lot of protein. Six times a day. All sorts— fish, chicken, beef, and also green vegetables. I incorporate pretty much everything. I try to go light on simple sugars, bread, rice, and potatoes. I haven’t always been as strict as I am now. In the last three or four years I’ve become more strict. Each milestone, competition, and birthday, I realize I want to retain this as long as I can, and I push it a little harder. I’ve worked out for many years, but the last four years have probably been more intense than ever. I found a couple of fitness competitions, and that just drives me even harder.

Did you train specifically for the AFM FITTEST, or did you rely on your regular training routine? I made a few small adjustments, but there wasn’t anything that I really needed to add that I wasn’t doing. It was more optimizing some of the specific exercises.

How would you pitch the AFM FITTEST to someone who is unsure about competing?

The real competition is yourself. I think people lose their way in fitness because they don’t have a goal, and they get bored. If you have an objective—whether it’s health or an event—that’s what it requires.

What goals did you set for yourself for the AFM FITTEST? Top three. I looked at everyone’s top scores from last year and said that’s what I have to match.

What motivates you to be fit? I tell people that I don’t live to be fit, I’m fit to live. I never want to be at a point where I can’t do something because I’m physically incapable.

In your own words, what defines a fit person? Someone who is well-rounded and has a broad range of disciplines. They strive for strength across that broad range and aren’t necessarily focused on one thing.

How did you feel on event day? I felt great.

A little nervous but not afraid of it.

What are your keys to success? Discipline.

Having a set of goals that you understand what it takes to get to it. Whether it’s work, or recreation, or this competition. Dedicating what it takes to achieve that.

What’s your next goal to achieve? I haven’t set my next goal yet, but I’m scanning for additional competitions.

It’s always good to have a goal; then it gives you something to measure up against.

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Kathleen Parker

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Women 50–59 How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? All five!

Which year felt the best? I’ve loved every single year. They’ve all been so different.

How did this year’s AFM FITTEST compare to previous years? I thought this year was hard. The battle ropes were hard; everyone was going to failure. I’m sad they got rid of the burpees this year, but the wall ball was a good

replacement. I will say, I’m so glad they got rid of the softball throw because I got last place in that every single year.

someone who’s unsure about competing? It’s fun. It’s something good to train for every year.

It’s a great test to gauge how fit you are for your age.

Favorite test? Wall ball.

Least favorite test? I don’t like the mile run that much. I like sprinting. Plus, this year I had Achilles tendinitis, so I ran a slow mile.

How would you pitch the AFM FITTEST to

In your own words, what defines a fit person? A fit person would be strong, agile, flexible, fast, and fit on the inside. Someone who has a healthy, good soul. I always say a healthy body leads to a healthy mind. If you feel good about yourself on the outside, it makes you feel good on the inside. Self-esteem is part of being healthy.

Who or what motivates you to be fit? Staying healthy and living life. I love to live life. I want to surf and snowboard and water ski and jump off things! And I don’t ever want say I’m “too old.”

I want to keep up. I’m going to be 56 this year, but I still feel like I’m 28. I love getting up in the morning, teaching my classes, and getting out on the lake. I can do whatever I want because I’m strong enough.

How has your athletic ability changed with age? In my 20s and 30s, I was more of a jogger. I didn’t do any strength training, just because we didn’t know back then that we needed to. Now I do it because I have a history of osteoporosis in my family. But in my mid 40s, I started my career as a trainer and began incorporating strength training and plyometrics.

What’s funny is that, in the competition, my times have gotten faster every year. It makes me feel good to know that I’m not slowing down.

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Kent Smith

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Men 60+ How many years have you competed in the fittest? Four years. I injured myself preparing for AFM Fittest the first year (2012) and had to miss.

Which year felt the best?

Last year (2015) was special because I started well on the first few tests (med ball, vertical, 40) and that feeling stayed with me throughout the whole event.

Do you train specifically for the AFM FITTEST, or do you stick to your regular workout routine year round? I have trained specifically for AFM FITTEST with Greg Cook, a two-time overall winner of AFM FITTEST. Greg coaches at Rail Training and Pure Austin Fitness. Greg focuses on speed, explosiveness, and balance, and is a great coach. Seeing his picture on the cover of Austin Fit Magazine in 2012 and 2013 was an inspiration for me to work hard and try to achieve something.

I have also greatly benefitted from sprint work with David Braswell’s sprint group, boot camps at Heat Bootcamp, powerlifting at Austin Simply Fit, and yoga at Wanderlust.

As a veteran, how did you feel coming into this year’s competition? Do you feel more comfortable as the years pass?

I think anyone will feel more comfortable if they have done it before. You have a better idea of how things will go and how you will feel. You can also learn from any glitches or mistakes you might have made in prior years.

But there have been lots

46 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

of first time winners, so having experience is not a prerequisite to winning!

How has age affected your athletic ability?

How has it changed from your 20s to your 60s?

I played baseball and soccer in high school, some intramural sports in college, and then soccer in Austin city leagues for many years. Nobody would’ve thought of me as much of an athlete. I was the guy reading books and studying. (I still love to read.) But I always wanted to be more athletic. I found that you can achieve some little successes, and you can build on those to achieve more success. As you do that, your confidence grows, and you find that you are in a positive spiral where one good thing leads to another.

How do you juggle a full-time job working as a lawyer and a diligent workout schedule? I am lucky to work at a fine law firm, Reed & Scardino, LLP. The firm honors the outside interests of employees, including fitness.

Reed & Scardino is a sponsor of the Boneshaker Project, which is working in schools and outside of schools to get kids and their families running, biking, and doing other outdoor activities. Another great thing about the firm is that everyone is treated with equal respect.

Over time, I have probably limited the things I do.

I focus on work, working out, and family. I am satisfied doing those things.

Finally, I feel blessed to have met (and worked out with) so many great folks in the Austin fitness

community. Everyone is positive and encouraging, and I have lots of role models to look up to!

In your own words, what

defines a fit person? Anyone can be fit. To me, the most important aspects of fitness are not what you look like now, or how fast you can run, or how much

weight you can lift. The most important aspects of fitness are the willingness to work hard and the consistency to stick with it. Consistent effort translates into tremendous results over time. Tiny little improvements add up to mind-boggling transformations if you just stick with it.

We tend to look at really fit people and think they have always been that way. When we see someone doing some amazing athletic feat, we say, “I wish I could do that.” Well, we can! The person we are admiring probably couldn’t do that feat years ago but kept working at it and making improvements until he or she could do it.

Great athletes and very fit people get tired just like the rest of us, but they keep at their craft and continue to get better. Set your goals very high—you can accomplish more than you think you can.

Mary Faria

Age Group Champion ∂∂ Women 60+ How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? This is my first year. I was talked into this by [AFM’s publishers] Lou and Lynne Earle. They’ve been trying to get me to do it for a few years.

50s, I was getting faster. My best PRs were in my 50s. The only time I didn’t beat my PR was in the marathon, but I still think I can do it—even in my 60s! I think it takes persistence; you have to stick with it.

Did you prepare specifically for the AFM FITTEST or rely on your regular training? I was relying on my regular training. As a competitive runner, I do a lot of strength work, so I was just relying on that for this. I really didn’t focus on it, other than the pull-ups, which help to build upper body strength for running.

What motivates you to be fit? I just think we’re just so blessed to have these wonderful bodies.

I think if we take care of them, they’ll carry us through life, and we’ll have a better quality of life.

I see so many people my age that are unhealthy, and they’re not thinking about the gift we have. We only have one life, and we want to have the highest quality of life we can. For me it’s not so much about looking fantastic but about having a better quality of life overall.

Are you a marathoner? Yes, I am a big distance runner, very big marathoner. I have done 33 marathons. I just did The Boston Marathon in April for the seventh time.

Can we assume that your favorite test is the mile? Yes. It was so much fun!

Least favorite test? Definitely the wall ball because I couldn’t hit the line and I was not prepared for that at all with the coordination.

I was doing it but I could not get it up there, so that was the hardest, definitely the one I did not enjoy. But now I know that I have to practice that.

In your own words, what defines a fit person? I believe it’s more than just the physical.

It’s mind, body, and spirit—the whole person.

Spirituality is very important. Austin is a great city where I think more people are inclined to be more holistic.

How did you feel on event day? I was nervous. There were a lot of things that I was trying that I hadn’t tried before. But overall it was a fun day. I ran into a friend—Alison Gardner—who I hadn’t seen in years. She and I used to run and do marathons together.

She showed up in the 40s group, so we were competing together and she was giving me little hints. She won her age group, and I was so excited about that.

Are you going to compete again in the AFM FITTEST next year? I think I might. It was a great baseline for me; now I know what I need to work on (like the wall ball). I’ve been thinking about how I can incorporate some of those things into my workouts. Some of the things we did I’ve never done before so it was a good learning experience.

How has age impacted your athleticism?

I’ve been running competitively since I was in my 30s. And interestingly enough, even in my

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Team JET

Overall Team Champion ∂∂ Jayson Lee (36), Taylor Johnson (25), Cameron Josse (25), Edwardo Williams (35) How did you form this team?

JL: Edwardo and I had been thinking about putting a strong team together for the past couple of years, but we just needed the right pieces.

Funny enough, I met Taylor at David Braswell’s sprint session, and that’s how we connected. I work with Cameron at DeFranco’s Gym at Onnit, so he hopped on as well.

When did you form the team?

Around January or February. Originally it was just three of us, but we added Cameron later because of what he brought to the table.

What was the team’s training schedule like?

We actually didn’t even meet at all. Each person had their own responsibility for each test,

so we checked in with each other from time to time. We tried to meet as a team, but we all have such busy schedules.

How did you divvy up the tests?

JL: Pull-ups and agility shuttle.

TJ: Vertical jump, 40-yard dash, and interval run.

CJ: Both mystery tests and wall ball.

EW: Med ball toss and mile run.

Did your team have a favorite test?

EW: I’ve been training a lot of runners, logging a lot of distance, and doing races every other weekend. When I was told I only had to run one mile, I was excited about it.

If you could create your own test, what would it be?

JL: I miss the burpees. I’d bring those back.

TJ: A broad jump would be cool to do.

CJ: I’d like to do a med ball throw where you can use your legs and not get disqualified for stepping over the line.

EW: I want some kind of tower climb.

How did the competition compare to your expectations?

JL: Our whole intention was to beat Outright Body Shop. We were checking in after each test to see how we were stacking up against them. Last year I was at the AFM FITTEST rooting them on. They have such a tight bond, and I thought I could form a team like that.

CJ: That’s how Jayson sold me on the team division. I was on the fence because I was competing in the individual and wanted to be done after that. But then he told me there was this team that has won four years in a row, and I said, “You know what? It’s always fun to take down a champ. Let’s do it.”

What advice would you give to other teams?

CJ: Work to your strengths.

EW: Put the team first and let your ego chill out.

Are you going to come back next year to defend the title?

Absolutely. We have to!

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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Team CrossFit Central

Gym Team Champion ∂∂ Andy Boerckel, 35 – CrossFit Athlete, Michael “Big Mike” Gregory, 34 – Co-founder and Coach, Nader Issa, 27 – Coach, Jeremy Thiel, 34 – Co-founder and Coach How many times has your team competed?

CrossFit Central has sent a team to the AFM FITTEST in the past, but made up of different coaches. This was our first time competing together as a team though.

We actually didn’t think we were going to do well. This isn’t the stuff we train for! We just wanted to go out there and have fun. We did the first test and did well; then the second test we did well too. Then we started winning each test. By the sixth event we were like,

“We’re going to win!”

How did you decide to divvy up the tests?

MG: We talked about it the day before.

NI: It was pretty much just decided on the fly.

JT: We knew Big Mike was set for the wall ball because he’s so tall, and then Andy played D1 football, so he did the vertical and sprint stuff.

What was the team’s training schedule like?

NI: Well, we just stuck to what we were doing

in CrossFit. JT: CrossFit is about functional fitness and being ready for anything. You should be ready to run a mile and do pull-ups and do sprints. It’s about being well-rounded.

Did your team have a favorite test?

MG: Wall ball—I knew I was going to win that one.

Did your team have a least-favorite test?

JT: None of us wanted to do the interval run.

NI: I did it last year, and I wasn’t confident going into it this year but knew I was the best chance. Then I ended up DQing myself by jumping the gun on round seven.

AB: I didn’t have cleats, and it was still wet from the rain so I was super cautious running the 40-yard dash.

If you could create your own team test, what would it be? A max deadlift or a farmer’s carry with heavy dumbbells—as a true grip strength test.

How did the competition compare to your expectations?

MG: I’ve watched in the past, because Nader and Jeremy competed in the individual in previous years. We had an idea of what was there, so not too many surprises. For us to have such different strengths, we knew we could put ourselves in a strategic position to do well.

JT: We had fun. That’s what it’s all about, isn’t it?

AB: I had a blast. I had never been out to the AFM FITTEST, but I had a really great time.

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Team 3 Dudes +1

Corporate Team Champion ∂∂ Xavier De Leon (18), Kevin Hines (40), Emmanuel Martinez (28), Rich Allen (32) How many years has your team competed?

This is the third year.

How did you form this team?

KH: Rich and Emmanuel and I all worked together at Oracle. Last year we had a team with Rich’s brother, but he moved to Houston. I recruited Emmanual the morning of the AFM FITTEST because I needed another person and I knew he was competing in the individual. Xavier is my stepson and I told him at 7 p.m. the night before that he was going to be competing with us. He ended up winning the interval run!

How did event day go?

KH: It was rough, because Emmanual and Rich competed in the individual division, and there was some crossover. They were finishing their individual tests when we started the team division. It was a mess. We were playing catch up for a while. Rich had to run the 40-yard dash by himself and Emmanuel had to do pull-ups alone.

If you could create your own team test, what would it be?

RA: A 400 meter run.

KH: Some kind of strongman test. Last year I made the suggestion that the team mile be a relay, and they actually incorporated that.

How did the AFM FITTEST compare to your expectations?

EM: It was refreshing–I really enjoyed it. I was challenged, but I had fun. That’s what I wanted to get out of it. I didn’t want to be completely burnt out to the point that I didn’t enjoy it.

KH: It’s always a good time out there. The fitness community in Austin is really supportive.

XD: It was a great environment.

Do you have any goals set for next year’s competition?

KH: I always have one every year I compete: take down the Outright Body Shop team.

What would you do differently?

KH: Form earlier. Normally I start in February but that didn’t happen this year.

EM: I workout regularly and play basketball, so my conditioning was at a good level. But the tests are different from what I’m used to, so next year I’d start at least two months before to get the techniques and mechanics down.

RA: Bring cleats.

52 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

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No Excuse Moms M

By Devyn Bernal

oms are all too familiar with the feeling of everyday chaos. With kids to take care of, errands to run, and work to be done as part of a neverending to-do list, it’s nearly impossible to find time for yourself. Busy days result in your workout becoming less and less of a priority. However, healthy living is crucial for you and your family—sometimes you just need a little bit of a boost from the right people.

That’s where No Excuse Moms (NEM) comes in. This supportive group of women put health and fitness toward the top of their list, next to tending to their families.

A NEM prioritizes her health, her family’s health, and understands the impact her fitness and health can create in the community. These moms chose to transform their lives and continue to make that choice every day. Created in 2013 by mom of three Maria Kang, the group is now nationwide, and each chapter includes volunteers, online administrators, regional managers, and local leaders.

The Austin chapter of NEM meets regularly to exercise, swap healthy recipes, try new workouts, and motivate each other to stay fit. Not only does Austin’s NEM receive discounts and free workouts often, but these moms also provide camaraderie and

friendships for each other, to balance out their busy schedules.

All of this is made possible by the nonprofit Fitness Without Borders, which funds most of the workouts and activities. The local chapter is led by Edith Salazar, director of operations of Texican Café and mother of two daughters. Salazar serves as a constant form of encouragement for Austin’s group of NEM, always finding new ways to be of help and a source of inspiration for anyone on the NEM journey. She leads the south and central Austin groups, and Andrea Glick leads the north Austin groups, making it convenient for moms all over the city.

Don’t have children, but looking for a support group anyways? All women are welcome at NEM events, including those who don’t have kids. Simply anyone who strives to be healthier is embraced by the group.

The Austin group has more than 1,000 members, but NEM is all about the more the merrier. If you’re looking for a group who doesn’t believe in quick fad diets, the newest workout craze or abiding by any specific diet rule, but rather a support group who lovingly pushes you to be better every day, consider joining NEM. Join the Facebook group “No Excuse Mom Austin, Texas” for more details.

“We are a group of moms who motivate each other, but we can take our motivation to any woman.”

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HOWLER BROTHERS: Bruja Boardshorts – Reefer Stripe These modern boardshorts closely resemble the classics but add a unique twist with a Velcro fly and a drawstring closure. Also equipped with a dependable button-through “firewall” pocket, your valuables will be kept safe so you can spend more time enjoying the water and less time worrying.

LAIRD: Enduro-tech Walk Short (olive) Made by the world renowned master of crossover board sports, Laird Hamilton, these lightweight shorts are wrinkle free and made with an abrasion resistant, robust fabric that maintains a sharp look, whatever the circumstance. Enduro-tech walk shorts are true to your jean size and the perfect adventure attire, durable enough for a hike or a day on the lake.

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Style Summer 2016

Running Shoe Review

by Cregg Weinmann

T

ime to own up: You want to run fast, or you probably wouldn’t be reading about racing shoes. Here’s our look at racing shoes that are suitable for your fastest road running, whether it’s a mile or a marathon. All eight shoes are updated models—tried and true—thanks to the brands’ commitment to the need for speed.

It’s always a good idea to adapt to racing shoes before wearing them in an important race. They’re more minimal than traditional training shoes so there’s less protection.

While the physiological benefits from wearing racers vary from runner to runner, there are benefits. The shoes offer psychological benefits as well since light shoes make you want to run fast. Bottom line: What can racers mean for the time on the clock? A general rule of thumb is one second per ounce (of shoe weight) per mile—though it’s not just about the shoe. Here’s hoping that your training, shoe choice, and pace judgment align for some great races.

Nike Zoom Streak LT 3 $80

T

he Zoom Streak LT 3 is the latest iteration of an iconic Nike racing shoe.

The fit and feel are spike-like, in keeping with the shoe’s speedy reputation, and it’s now nearly an ounce lighter in a men’s size 11. The upper is a minimesh with no-sew overlays and a glove-like fit. The overlays at the toe are minimal but effective, and the lace throat and internal saddle really hold the foot well. As in previous versions, the midsole is a low-profile design, here resculpted to take advantage of its geometry to best effect, rounding the edges to save weight and position the foot for toe-off. The outersole is carbon rubber in the heel with blown rubber in the forefoot, each segmented to allow the foot to move efficiently. A TPU shank gives some structure to the sole.

Its light weight, spike-like fit, and reasonable price were enough to earn the Zoom Streak LT 3 honors as our Best Racing Shoe.

60 austinfItmagazine.com / 07. 16

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adidas Adios Boost 3 $140

he tough and responsive Adios has been the workhorse of the adidas racing shoe line. The upper receives the most attention in Round 3, because the other components have performed so well.

The upper’s fit is a bit closer in the forefoot. The toe rand is notched for better flexion and has a thinner synthetic suede material than Round 2. The midsole is unchanged: boost foam sculpted for efficiency that manages road distances ranging from the mile to the marathon. The outersole is Continental rubber, here thinned to shave weight while also improving the flexibility and traction of the sole. These incremental changes add up to an even better racer.

T

ASICS HyperTri 2 $100

he HyperTri, ASICS’ response to the needs of triathlon racing, is a close relative of the Gel HyperSpeed. Round 2 of the HyperTri maintains its triathlon-specific features while improving others. The graphics have changed a bit, and the closed mesh upper is a stretchier mesh with no-sew overlays replacing the traditional toe construction. Sockless wear is no problem, and the included stretch laces make for speedy transitions, though a traditional lacing option is also available. The midsole continues with its bouncy, cushioned feel but additional drainage ports have been added (discretely), so they’re there if required. The outersole is similar to its debut version, but with a touch more forefoot coverage. Even so, the shoe nets out at a few fractions of an ounce lighter. The HyperTri 2’s fit, ride, and versatility make it an excellent choice for one event—especially if it’s the third one in a series.

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Summer 2016 Running Shoe Review

New Balance 1400 v4 $100

Mizuno Hitogami 3 $100

T

T

he 1400 was a right-place, right-time shoe that effectively defined a new profile for New Balance. Round 4 offers some incremental improvements, while maintaining its many strengths. The upper is closed mesh with welded overlays, sporting brightly colored, sublimated graphics. You can’t miss it. The support is better than Round 3 thanks to the revamped forefoot overlays that extend to the bottom of the lace throat. The midsole has the requisite changes to the molding, but continues to feature the effective cushioning and resiliently snappy ride the shoe is known for. The new 10-millimeter drop is better suited to a variety of runners, requiring little adaptation to its low profile.

The redesigned outersole has a slightly better combination of traction and durability, plus a little more flexibility in the sole unit.

The 1400 v4 solidifies its heritage of performance, versatility, and value.

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Pearl Izumi EM Road N0 v2 $100

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he Pearl Izumi EMotion line has inched forward with minor changes to its shoes—a testament to its solid reputation. The EM Road N0 v2 (version 2 of the Neutral zero-drop racer) is a racer/ trainer reserved for your fastest running.

The upper is small minimesh supported by no-sew overlays pared down a bit from Round 1 to save weight. A saddle-like framework snugs the foot gently, but effectively.

The midsole features the same zero-drop geometry as the original, but with a healthy chunk of foam underfoot (though it’s still low to the ground). The outersole is a slightly trimmed-down version of Round 1’s, saving weight without noticeably affecting traction or durability. The result is a reliable racer that can manage fast running, whether it’s in speed sessions or on race day.

he Hitogami has become one of Mizuno’s most versatile racing shoes, splitting the difference between an ultralight training shoe and a really good racing shoe. The upper employs a semiopen, nonstretch mesh, with good support and a sleek-looking, sublimated design. The already-spare traditional toe and lace throat overlays of Round 2 have been pared back a bit and softened. As is often the case with Mizuno’s most effective shoes, the midsole continues with the low-profile chassis from Round 1 on the strength of its protection and good response. The outersole continues, its durable traction at home on the roads as well as on smooth, natural surfaces. The bottom line is that the Hitogami 3 is lighter, but with the same performance that the shoe’s fans have come to expect.

Saucony Type A $100

F

or the past decade and through six updates, the Type A has epitomized Saucony racing. This version, while not entirely new, is a numerical reset. The upper sticks with yet another closed mesh, though it has a breathable, cross-hatched pattern that’s pretty supportive on its own. Flexfilm overlays from mid- to rearfoot keep the foot well-secured. The toecap keeps the fabric off the toes effectively, yet unobtrusively, allowing great flexibility in the process. Open mesh linings work well for sockless use and drain effectively in warm or wet conditions.

The midsole is unchanged: 4-millimeter geometry and low-profile stack height. The ride is responsive, with decent protection. The outersole retains two excellent compounds: proven XT-900 rubber in the heel and iBR+ injected blown rubber in the forefoot. What impresses most about the Type A in this round is the continued attention to detail, protection, and performance—all for the same price.

Skechers GOMeb Speed 3 2016 $125

E

ach version of the GOMeb Speed coincided with an impressive exploit by its namesake, and that continues as Meb Keflezighi earned a spot on the 2016 U.S. Olympic team. The Speed 3 2016 features a new upper and midsole foam, either one of which might be called a major upgrade. The upper is a new, knitted design that flexes well with the foot, yet holds it securely. The interplay of contrasting colors in its knitted design adds noticeable visual appeal. The fit is both roomy enough and snug enough to secure the foot effectively, thanks to its stretchy nature. The midsole features a new foam formulation that has a livelier feel to it. The midsole tooling remains the same as does the embedded plate, adding its responsive and stabilizing feel. The outersole is also as before: just a few dots of carbon rubber, the remainder toughened foam. The versatility of the GOMeb Speed is improved in the 2016 version: better protection, more responsiveness, and after all, who doesn’t want to be like Meb?

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Wellness

Blister Busters

Dr. Jennifer Gordon of Westlake Dermatology provides a few tips for treating the common friction blister.

F

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photo courtesy of Dennis Sloan, Flickr

riction blisters are soft pockets of raised skin that become filled with fluid. They are caused by the combination of moisture and the continuous rubbing of the skin, resulting in separation of skin layers within the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). The resulting gap becomes filled with fluid, which is typically clear, although if there is damage to blood vessels in the area, the blood may be present (typically referred to as a blood blister).

While it is possible for friction blisters to form anywhere on the body, they typically occur on the feet, where friction from stiff or poorly fitting shoes combines with moisture generated through normal sweating to form the ideal environment for blister development.

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Preventing Blisters

Treating Your Blisters

There are some simple ways to prevent friction blisters from forming on the feet: • Wear properly fitting shoes that do not slide up and down your heels while walking but are also not too tight.

• You can put sticky shoe pads behind the heel of your shoe or at the ball of your foot to help prevent rubbing and movement of your feet.

• Keep your feet dry by always wearing fresh dry socks. Wool and “dry fit” socks can help wick moisture away from the skin. Many women do not wear socks with certain shoes, but a small nylon or “footie” may help prevent blisters.

• If you feel a blister developing, or know your shoe rubs on a certain area of your foot, you can put some Vaseline or Chap Stick on the area that may help prevent breakdown of the skin

Blisters do not require any special treatments as they usually resolve on their own within a few days. A new layer of skin begins to form beneath the blister, while fluid from within the blister naturally starts to drain.

Eventually, the skin covering the blister becomes calloused and peels away.

During the healing process, it is advisable to keep the blister clean and dry.

A sterile bandage also can be utilized to minimize additional irritation. Continued pressure or friction on the blister could limit the blister’s ability to heal or also could break the blister open. In the latter case, be sure to keep the area clean and dry to minimize the risk of infection.

•

Should You Pop Your Blister?

To pop or not to pop: it’s a question that is debated by many medical experts.

Most physicians advise against intentionally opening a blister in order to minimize the chances of infection.

Many of these experts point to the fact that blistering is the skin’s natural solution to protecting itself from further injury or infection.

In contrast, other physicians are in favor of opening the blister if it is done properly (under sterile conditions). The consensus from this faction is that popping the blister may be necessary in order to relieve pain or enabling proper functioning of the hands and feet.

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If you do decide to pop your blister, here is a safe and sterile way to do so:

• Wash your hands and the area with the blister with soap and warm water.

• Swab both the needle and the blister with rubbing alcohol to sterilize them.

• Gently push the fluid within the blister to one side and prick the filled area two to three times with the sterile needle. Try your best to keep the skin covering the blister intact by refraining from dragging needle while puncturing. Allow the blister to drain on its own (do not squeeze the fluid out).

• Keep the area clean and dry by covering with a bandage (or gauze pad).

• Make sure to check your blister daily to look for signs of infection (swelling, redness, pus, or increasing pain). If you see any sign of infection see your physician.

Most importantly, if the blister pops naturally (or you do it), make sure that the skin is used to cover the blister base- do not cut off this skin, it should be used as a natural bandage and will make the blister heal more quickly and safely. afm 07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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Healthy Helpings Beating Breast Cancer

Despite decades of research, cancer is still very much a mystery.

There are certain factors, like smoking, we know play a large role in the development of lung cancer.

Other types, like breast cancer, are still under the microscope, though. A study published in JAMA Oncology revealed that lifestyle choices strongly affect breast cancer in women. Based on these findings, it is believed that women who carry common gene variants linked to breast cancer can still cut their risk of the disease by following a healthy lifestyle. It was discovered that four lifestyle factors were key: maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and not using hormone therapy after menopause. http://bit.ly/1tcPg4u

Attitude is the Antidote

Further proving that attitude is everything, a series of two new studies published in the journal Psychology and Aging shows that your positive or negative perception of aging can have an effect on your health later in life–particularly with Alzheimer’s disease. In the first study, researchers took data from 158 healthy people in their 40s by asking them to respond to statements like, “older people are absent-minded” or “older people have trouble learning new things,” using a scale to rate how strongly they agreed or disagreed. About 25 years later, when people in that same group were in their late 60s, they began about a decade of annual MRI brain scans to determine the volume of their hippocampus (the area associated with Alzheimer’s). The results showed that people who held negative thoughts about aging had greater loss of hippocampus when they aged. In the second study, the researchers took a similar approach but studied amyloid plaque and neurofibrillary clusters built up over time. Still, the results were consistent.

Based on these findings, researchers suspect that negative age stereotypes combined with stressors are a major factor in memory loss later in life. http://bit.ly/25oiCOk

From Bed to Boss

Getting enough sleep contributes to better health in a multitude of areas, such as attention, mood, and even weight gain/loss. But did you know that sleep can make you a better boss? A recent study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology suggests that good sleep habits can also make an employee easier to lead—and a leader easier to follow. Associate professor of management from the University of Washington, Christopher Barnes, led this study by working with different groups of students to measure charisma, based on previous studies showing that charismatic leaders are associated with better outcomes in areas such as performance and organizational effectiveness and employee job satisfaction and job performance. Researchers manipulated sleep for a group of 43 students by having the students wake up every hour between 10 p.m and 5 a.m. to complete a short survey. Another group of 45 students slept undisrupted. That morning, all 88 participants went into the lab and were asked to deliver a mock speech in a commencement ceremony. Everyone was given 15 minutes to prepare. The researchers found that the students whose sleep had been disrupted the night before the speech were rated as less charismatic by an impartial panel of lab assistants who were unaware of the sleep conditions. On average, the sleep-deprived participants’ scores were 12 percent lower than the scores of the individuals who had slept normally.

photos courtesy of newoldage.blogs.nytimes.com; freepik.com; huffingtonpost.com

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A

Dr. Matt Lowe of Spinal Rehab Sports Medicine has our back when it comes to questions about our spine. You could be letting this series of vertebrae keep you from reaching your full athletic potential, so stand up tall or sit up straight, and check out what Dr. Lowe has to say about taking care of your structural foundation.

What is spinal decompression therapy, and why is it important for active athletes? Spinal decompression is a pain-free state-of-the-art therapy used to relieve low back, neck, and leg pain. This non-invasive therapy gently takes pressure off the spine, allowing bulging or herniated discs to retract, restoring function and quality of life. When athletes suffer the aches and pains from the daily grind of their training routine, spinal decompression helps promote the movement of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the discs to promote healing and decrease pain.

Good posture in general is crucial to everyday spinal health and even more important in sports as athletic performance and injury prevention rely on the structural foundation your posture provides.

68 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

If an athlete suspects a neck injury may have occured, what is the first move to make? What do you strongly recommend not doing?

Anytime an athlete suspects having sustained a neck injury, consulting a trained medical professional is always the most appropriate place to start. If you are on the field, at the gym, or participating in an activity at the time of injury, discontinue all activity until you can be thoroughly evaluated. It is strongly recommended not to overstretch the area or attempt to “crack” or “pop" your own neck as this can put you at further risk for injury.

How important is it to have a good posture in sports or in general? Good posture in general is crucial to everyday spinal health and even more important in sports as athletic performance and injury pre-

vention rely on the structural foundation your posture provides. With a strong functionally stable core, an athlete is able to move through sports specific movement patterns with efficiency and power leading to enhanced performance.

Do you recommend standup desks, or can it harm an athlete just as much as heal?

Stand-up desks can be beneficial when used correctly; here at Spinal Rehab Sports Medicine, we encourage all of our patients to make that transition when necessary. As with any training regimen, progression and moderation are key when making changes to your home or office workstation and will allow your structural foundation time to adapt.

What are the most common sports injuries you come across? How can they be prevented? At Spinal Rehab we come across a wide variety of secondary conditions specific to each sport, ranging from tennis elbow, shin splints, swimmer’s shoulder, sprain/strains, herniated discs, muscular injuries, and neuro-structural dysfunction. These injuries are often caused by athletic overuse, improper body mechanics and technique, lack of conditioning or trauma. As leaders in chiropractic performance care, we offer the most advanced hands on treatment and exclusive therapy modalities to prevent injuries, speed recovery, and improve athletic performance. afm

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Fitness

5 Ways to Lose Weight (Without a Diet or Gym)

1 Prioritize Sleep

According to a review in the International Journal of Endocrinology, how much you sleep dramatically affects your metabolism. Missing just a few hours of shut-eye can decrease hormones that help you feel full, causing you to overeat.

Further, those who sleep less are more likely to be overweight or obese.

Your Action Plan: You’ve heard over and over again you should set a regular sleep schedule, avoid caffeine in the afternoon, and steer clear of screens in the evening. But practicing this can be challenging.

Make your afternoon cup of joe half-caff, and slowly wean yourself from it.

Download apps like f.lux that remove sleep-inhibiting blue light from your devices at night and make your bed a work-free zone so that when you lie down, your body knows it’s time to rest.

2 Stress Less

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Your Action Plan: Take stock of your stressors and cut out non-essentials.

Then determine what activities relieve your stress.

Journaling, meditation, or walking with friends are all great, but only if they work for you. Once you’ve

photo courtesy of lalpert20, Flickr

Whether it’s a pre-summer juice fast, a post-holiday sugar cleanse or the tabloid-selling technique—we’ve all tried a diet or two.

While that Master Cleanse or calorie-restricted regimen may work in the short term, maintaining the weight loss is another story.

“Diets don’t work in the long run,” says Traci Mann, director of the Health and Eating Lab at the University of Minnesota. “People can lose around ten percent of their weight on almost any diet. For the majority, the weight comes right back.”

Juice cleanses have plenty of benefits, but they typically serve a different purpose—to clear out toxins and jumpstart your energy.

However, it’s unrealistic to live off of liquids, so it’s essential to find a few long-term tools that’ll help you live with healthier habits to help you find, and maintain, a healthy weight.

Stress wreaks havoc on your waistline. High stress is linked to lower levels of physical activity and higher caloric consumption. Chronic sleep deprivation spikes cortisol levels, which causes your body to store fat in your midsection.

trimmed the fat from your schedule and included time for relaxation, trimmed the fatyou’ll fromfind youryour schedule and included time for waistline follows suit. relaxation, you’ll find your waistline follows suit.

photo courtesy of hightechub.com

The New Wave of Fitness

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3 Be Mindful

When you pay attention as you eat, you enjoy it more and eat less. Mindlessly shoveling food while online shopping can easily lead to overconsumption. If you aren’t mindful while eating, it’s difficult to know when you’ve had enough.

Your Action Plan: Start paying attention to what you eat and how it makes you feel. Krista Scott-Dixon, Lean Eating Program Director at Precision Nutrition, recommends taking notes on how you feel before, while, and after you eat. “You’ll start to notice what makes you feel like crap and what leaves you feeling energized.” Aim for satisfying eating experiences. Savoring tastes, textures, smells, and sounds can increase satiety levels, helping you feel satisfied with less.

Fitness Classes

4 Alter your Environment

Researchers at the Cornell Food and Brand Lab know that when it comes to your waistline, your surroundings matter. They’ve found that individuals eat up to 52 percent more calories using bigger bowls, that junk food consumption increases when stored at eye-level and that a messy kitchen can lead you to overeat.

Your Action Plan: The Food and Brand Lab recommends the CAN approach: Make healthy foods convenient, attractive and normal. This might mean finding healthy foods you enjoy, pre-washing and cutting produce or batch cooking for the week. With a little work at the front end, you can make the healthy option the easy option when it comes time to eat.

5 Move More

If you drive to work, sit at the office, and recline in front of the TV at night, I hate to break it to you, but your 45-minute Barre class isn’t going to cut it.

Researchers have found that NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis—or the amount of non-exercise type movement you do) is more predictive of a healthy weight than including a single exercise session in an otherwise sedentary day.

Your Action Plan: Bike to work, get a sit-to-stand desk, set an hourly alarm to climb a flight of stairs, play with your kids, or take an after-dinner stroll. Increasing daily NEAT time by two and a half hours can help you burn an additional 350 calories a day.

There’s no magic trick when it comes to weight loss.

But over time, these guidelines can have a huge impact.

So drop the delusion of dieting your way to a smaller waist and start taking steps towards achieving a healthy weight that lasts. afm

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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Fitness

Deus ex (Cardio) Machina

Stop feeling like a hamster on a wheel when you step on the treadmill; get your heart racing and focus on functional fitness with a more unconventional challenge.

By Gretchen Goswitz

72 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

Rower

Rowing machines have been around for decades, but the newer models are changing the game. The Concept 2 rower is typically found in CrossFit and garage gyms, with a lightweight design equipped with wheels, so users can move them around with ease. The rower stores in a vertical position and also disassembles into two parts to enhance the ergonomic features.

Alternatively, it’s also common to see water rowers in workout facilities.

Instead of a flywheel at the front of the machine like the Concept 2 brand, it’s equipped with a water wheel that generates a cyclone as you move. The water rower creates a natural feel by pairing water resistance with a rowing motion.

The cyclone may serve as a bonus for some users who’d rather be hypnotized by the swirling rather than focus on the challenge of a cardio workout.

Once your feet are strapped into the rower, the flow of the rowing movement can take a bit of practice. To get into the rhythm of the machine, just repeat to yourself: Legs, then arms. Move swiftly, making sure to extend your legs prior to bending your arms to your chest.

photography by Weston Carls; shot on location at Blackbird Fitness

I

n literature in theatre, the device deus ex machina (translation: god from the machine) is implemented as an intervention to abruptly resolve a seemingly unsolvable problem. This unexpected interjection by a new event, character, ability, or object, leads to resolution.

The following cardio machines, are the necessary disruptions to your current, bland cardio workout. Whether you abhor running or you’re looking for a low impact option, this new wave of cardio apparatus will get the job done. And if you do them regularly, these machines may result in sculpting the body of a god.

shot on location at CrossFit Python; modeled by LV Johns

AirDyne/ Assault Bike

If the word “assault” is in the name, there’s no doubt you’re going to get your butt whooped.

What looks like a modernized stationary bike is actually the cardio workout that’ll break your spirit before you reach the one minute mark.

The “wheel” is a fan that creates air resistance, and unfortunately, the harder you pedal, the more difficult your workout becomes.

The handlebars move simultaneously with the pedals, providing an upper and lower body workout.

(Rumor has it that truly sadistic coaches will remove the seat to engage additional muscle groups.)

Users often try to find a balance that preserves the most energy, but even at only 50 percent effort, huffing and puffing is inevitable.

It’s common to direct greater attention to pedaling while pacing the handlebar movement, and then switch focus to the pushing and pulling of the handlebars as the legs fatigue.

Regardless, the Assault Bike will blast calories while giving you the ride of your life.

Fitness

How first-timers approach the SkiErg: SkiErg? I love skiing!

Fast-forward to the end of the workout, and that rookie is either puking in the corner or lifelessly sprawled out on the floor, reconsidering their affinity for skiing.

Created by the same evil geniuses responsible for the Concept 2 rower, this machine also provides a full-body workout. Many users actually report working with the SkiErg to complement the rower. It also serves as an efficient alternative to the other two machines, especially for anyone with knee injuries.

As the name suggests, it’s a tight and convenient piece of equipment that’ll take up very little space in the gym or your home. The rhythm of this machine is also easier to master, in comparison. Arms extend overhead while holding onto the handles, and as they pull downward, legs and torso bend into a standing crunch-squat hybrid position. Some users incorporate a jump as they reset for the full motion, while others choose to reload with a lower squat at the bottom but keep their feet on the platform at the top of the overhead extension. The SkiErg is a tough machine, but the modifications are plenty, so anyone with an arm, elbow, knee, ankle injury can still use it with minimal to no discomfort.

photography by Weston Carls; shot on location at Of The Lion; modeled by Travis Goyeneche

SkiErg

Fitness

Building the Connection

By Diane Vives, M.S., C.S.C.S., N.S.C.A.-C.P.T., F.M.S.

T

raining to become bigger, stronger, and faster usually involves using multijoint, larger total body movements.

Think about how your sprinting or jumping technique involves connecting ground reaction forces from your lower body to the counter movement of your upper body. The full expression of speed or power makes it really easy to see how important the force transfer is through the torso to make this connection and act as a conduit of energy. So, if your torso or core muscles are not functioning properly, it may result in these “energy leaks” and a lessthan-stellar performance. The movements here are great to strengthen the full kinetic chain and challenge this connection between the hips and the shoulders. And these movements will also apply a couple of different exercise strategies in order to create the load to progress to higher levels of strength.

1

Purpose: Use a horizontal direction of load in order to challenge the torso stabilization strength in the frontal plane. Then the change in the lever arm during the press will add a unique rotational torque for training.

• Start by standing shoulder width apart and feet in line with the cable. Hold the cable just in front of your navel with both hands.

• Maintaining your stance and an upright posture and reaching the crown of your head to the sky, use a smooth controlled motion to press your hands out in front of your navel until elbows are fully extended.

• Your arms should form a triangle with your chest.

• Return to start. Perform desired number of repetitions then turn facing the opposite direction to put the emphasis on the opposite side of the body.

2

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photos by Brian Fitzsimmons performed by Sarah Brannon, Mecca Gym & Spa

1/ Pallof Press with Cable

1

2

• Lean into your TRX hand position while slowly flexing at the

2/ TRX Fallouts Purpose: Challenge core strength by lengthening the lever arm of the full kinetic chain. TRX will give you the ability to adjust to the proper intensity and progress based on your individual ability.

• Start by standing in a vertical plank position with feet hip-width apart and arms extended forward at 90 degrees, facing away from anchor.

shoulders and maintain an extended elbow. This will lengthen the lever arm until your arms are overhead.

• Always maintain your plank position and don’t allow any movement in your torso, hip, or knees.

• You can increase or decrease intensity by adjusting the foot position either closer or farther away from the TRX anchor.

• Also be conscious of maintaining head and neck in line with torso.

1

3/ Rollouts with Stability Ball Purpose: The plank on the ball is further challenged by again lengthening the lever arm as you flex at the shoulders and reach forward with the elbow. This is also a great anti-extension movement.

• Get into a plank position with your elbows under your shoulders on the apex of the stability ball. Feet should be shoulder-width apart with your toes pulled toward your shin.

2

• Start the movement by rolling the ball forward using your forearms. Make sure your forearms are parallel with your torso and do not clasp the hands together. (This creates internal rotation of the shoulders and causes you to disengage the lats which are assist in maintaining a strong connection from your arm to your torso.)

• Make sure nothing in plank position changes below the shoulders.

• With control, pull the ball back to start position with your forearms.

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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Featured The In Sweat We Trust Series: Austin Bouldering Project

Sports and Outdoors

July 30-31

July 12

XTERRA Muleshoe Off Road Triathlon and Duathlon

Shake Shack presents Shack, Track and Field

The In Sweat We Trust Series: Austin Bouldering Project

Austin This triathlon at Muleshoe Bend is brought to you by Pure Austin and features an open water 800-meter swim, followed by 14 miles of twisty shaded single-track mountain biking and finishes with a fourmile trail run on a combination of single track and jeep roads.

Sign up and start training now! racerevolutions.com/events/ xterra-off-road-triathlons

Downtown Austin Calling all runners! Join Shake Shack in a run from the restaurant down toward Lady Bird Lake to complete a threeto four-mile loop, ending at the Austin Shack. Runners will be able to purchase a tech Shack Track and Field shirt plus some grub afterwards.

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Austin Join ISWT as it continues to showcase Austin’s top fitness and wellness communities through healthy competition.

Bring your A-game to boulder your way up and attempt to earn the most points at each class to win overall. austinboulderingproject.com July 9

Charity Spike 2016

Food and Drinks

Austin Custom Sweat presents Charity Spike, “For a Cause,” held at Moontower Saloon.

Register a team and compete in one of Austin’s largest volleyball tournaments centered around charity. The event is competitive and coed 4’s, so pick your best teammates and get ready to spike. charityspike.com

Various Restaurants Celebrate the cuisine of the Lone Star State. See website for a list of participating restaurants, which donate a portion of their week's proceeds to food banks across Texas. gotexanrestaurantroundup. com

78 austinfItmagazine.com / 07.16

Go Texan Restaurant Round-Up

Arts

July 4

Fourth of July Fireworks and Symphony

Vic Mathias Shores (formerly Auditorium Shores) The Austin Symphony hosts an annual concert of patriotic music culminating in a spectacular firework display over Lady Bird Lake. roadwayevents.com

photo courtesy of DeborahCannon, Austin-American Statesman

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Featured Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic July 4

Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic

Austin 360 Amphitheater Join Willie as he celebrates the red, white, and blue with friends such as Cody Johnson Band, Shakey Graves, Brantley Gilbert, and Lee Ann Womack. willienelson.com/event/willienelsons-4th-of-july-picnic/ July

101X Summer Cinema Series

Central Market Join us for another year of 101X Summer Cinema in the Central Market park. Arrive early with your blankets, lawn chairs, thirst, and appetites!

Movie begins at dusk, Napoleon Dynamite on July 13 and The Goonies on July 27.

101x.com/summer-cinema-2016 July

Austin Chamber Music Festival

Central Texas Celebrating 20 years of presenting world-class chamber music concerts for Central

Texas audiences, Austin chamber Music Festival will present its most dynamic lineup to date, a remarkable roster of the world’s top classical, jazz and choral musicians. austinchambermusic.org/ features/festival/

Lifestyle

July 4

Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Celebration

Hill Country Galleria Shopping, music, barbecue, fireworks and fun for the whole family, including the dogs. hillcountrygalleria.com July 16

Long Center Presents Bubblepalooza

Long Center Bubblepalooza returns for its fifth year with a free annual celebration of open play; will include live music, chalk art, trailer food, and of course, tons of bubbles! thelongcenter.org/event/ bubblepalooza/

July 17

Sirius XM presents The Art of Rap Festival

Circuit of the Americas This nationwide tour features an impressive lineup of legendary rappers and hip-hop artists. Austin’s event will include stars such as Ice-T, Public Enemy, Naughty by Nature, Mobb Deep, Grandmaster Melle Mel & Scorpio, EPMD, The Sugarhill Gang, and Kurtis Blow. austin360amphitheater.com/ events/sirius-xm-backspinpresents-the-art-of-rap-festival-featuring-public-enemy

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July 23-24

Body Mind Spirit Expo

Palmer Events Center This holistic expo focuses on advancements in spiritual and planetary awakening with likeminded souls. bmse.net

07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com

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Race Calendar July July 2

Shiner Half Moon Holiday 5K/10K/KidK Shiner Firecracker 5K Lago Vista Rainbow Dash 1M Fun Run San Antonio July 2

Rainbow Dash 1M Fun Run San Antonio July 4

Freedom 5000 Austin Featured El Chupacabra de San Antonio 5K & 10K

July 5

Instep4Life 5K Run San Antonio Best of Texas Race Series—Let Freedom Run San Antonio July 5

Instep4Life 5K Run San Antonio July 8

Caleb 5K Austin July 9

Feed the Hungry Fun Run Marble Falls July 14

Coaches Coalition National Championship Austin

Capt’n Karl’s Trail Series – Muleshoe Bend Spicewood CenTex Race Series – Hot 2 Trot 5K Killeen Corvell Creek Critters 5K Waco Featured Marble Falls Triathalon

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Orange Leaf Half Marathon New Braunfels

photo courtesy of DailyTrib.com; SaCurrent

July 16

July–September Submit your event online at austinfitmagazine.com

SARR Women’s 5K San Antonio Vern’s No Frills 5K Georgetown Hot 2 Trot 5K Temple July 17

Marble Falls Triathlon Marble Falls

Rattler Run

September 12

San Marcos Vern’s No Frills 5K

2016 Freescale CTX Tour de Cure

Georgetown

Austin

August 27

September 17

Camp Agape Memorial Run

Cedar Park XC Invitational

Marble Falls

Cedar Park

Capt’n Karl’s Trail Series – Reveille Peak Ranch

San Marcos

County Roads 10K

Burnet Lighthouse Hill Ranch 10/20Mile/50K Trail Run

July 22

El Chupacabra de San Antonio 5K/10K San Antonio

September 5

Springs Lake Triathlon

San Marcos

July 23

SARR Labor Day 5 Mile Whine Run

Georgetown Running Club River Relays Georgetown

September

New Braunfels

Johnson City

Vern’s No Frills 5K

Georgetown TriRock Austin

Austin

September 18

Waco Kids Tri Waco

September 9

Austin

July 24

Austin

CASA Superhero Run Zilker Relays Rubber Ducky Dash 5K Fun Run

TriWaco Triathlon Waco

September 10

Burning Pine 5K & 10 K

September 24

July 30

Bastrop

Austin Challenge

Glorify! Grow! Go! 5K San Antonio

Gruene 10K

Georgetown

Austin New Braunfels

G3 5K San Antonio

Dare to Ascend Trail Marathon

Georgetown Hornet Races

Buda

September 25

August

Pflugerville Pfun Tri Series Race #3

Austin

August 7

Pflugerville

Komen Austin Race for the Cure

Inspire Kids to TRI Triathlon Cedar Park

Spa Girl Tri – Lost Pines

Bastrop Tour de Jalapeño 2016 San Marcos

Schlotzsky’s Bun Run

Austin September 26

Texas Mamma Jamma Ride September 11

Austin

Brain Power 5K/10K Jack’s Generic Triathlon New Braunfels

Cedar Park XTERRA Reveille Peak Trail Run

August 20

Burnet

Habanero Hundred Smithville

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Discover!

Olympian Profile

Q&A

Leo Manzano Specialty: 1500 meter

What’s your greatest achievement on the field? Winning the silver medal for the U.S. I became the first American in 44 years to bring back an Olympic medal for the U.S. How many hours each week are you running or training for running? It’s a lifestyle.

Everything I do revolves around running. If I were to put a number on actual numbers training, it would probably be somewhere between 22 and 27 hours a week.

How do you feel going into the 2016 Games in comparison to 2008 and 2012?

I feel great. It definitely feels like each time I go back it becomes more special. I’ve seen a lot of athletes come and go within the last couple of years, and I’m just so grateful to be in the sport. Each time that I get to go back to an Olympics or a world championship, it becomes more special each time.

What do you want your legacy to be?

What kind of athlete do you want to be remembered as? I hope people remember me as someone who inspires and motivates—whether it’s kids or people of all ages or different backgrounds. I’ve always been the underdog in my career but I’ve always been able to somehow make it to the top in various competitions. I hope people get inspired on or off the track to reach for the stars and follow their dreams if they’ve ever seen me race or they’ve heard my story.

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photo by Brian Fitzsimmons

What comes after 2016? I love what I’m doing. I really enjoy running and competing, and motivating people to do their best.

I know I won’t be able to run forever, but I’d love to keep running for as long as I can. I can’t tell you for sure if that’ll be two, three, four, five, or even six more years—or maybe if there’s another Olympics in the mix—but I’d like to continue for as long as I can.

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