Austin Fit Magazine September 2020: The Explore Issue

SEP 2020

Explore THE THE

ISSUE

Adventures, activities and more to explore in Central Texas.

Pg. 30 In-State

Weekend Escape Pg. 42 Climbing Around Austin Pg. 48 How to be Champ City

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Exposure

PHOTOGRAPHER DANIEL MCCORD NIKKI ZAHKA

Austin, TX

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

From the Director the United States until I, along with 23 other students, journeyed to Scotland to study photography and media tourism. Over the course of a month, we traveled to ten different cities (and a few others in between) and ventured into Northern Ireland for a time. Whether it was hiking or relocating or quickly setting our bags down to explore a quaint town—we were constantly on the move.

I loved every second of it. From seeing the vast, magnificent countryside in Scotland to walking along the cliffs in Northern Ireland, my eyes were opened to the world’s beauty. During one leg of the trip, we were hiking almost everyday (one day even held two hikes) and I can still recall my Canon Rebel, hanging from my neck, bouncing with every step as we trudged up and down (many) hills to get the best shot. Our days consisted of learning and shooting, and at night we would head to a pub to meet the locals. I learned each destination had a rich history and a unique story to tell.

Typically during the summer, we like to include a Travel issue showcasing enticing runcations and beautiful destinations. However, with the present circumstances, we decided to shift this issue and encourage you to turn that desire inward to our city and explore all of the wonderful, outdoor adventures and unique stories Austin has to offer.

As humans, we’re built to explore; we’re built to share our stories with one another and experience the world around us, so these travel limitations we are dealing with at the moment can be incredibly difficult for those itching to get out of town and experience new adventures—trust me, I’m right there with you.

Since it is best to stay near the city limits for the time being, our hope with this issue and through these stories is to take you to the top of Mount Everest with Gary Guller, through Texas trails on horseback with Cindy Present, around the metroplex with Eric Champ, and to encourage you to visit the corners of Austin you may have never been before.

AS A CHILD, I ALWAYS HAD MY NOSE IN A BOOK.

I

t was almost to a fault—especially when I would get in trouble for reading instead of paying attention in class. I was (and still am) taken with how the written word is capable of transferring someone from one place to another; sometimes from one world to another.

My innate curiosity for stories grew and evolved, which led me to pursue journalism at Texas Tech University (sorry Austinites—I’m a Red Raider), to continue my passion and learn how to become a proper storyteller.

Like many other Austinites, I am an explorer at heart—through reading, writing and experiencing adventure. It was through Tech that I discovered my love for exploration. I had never really traveled beyond

Keep Exploring—and most importantly—Keep Austin Fit,

Emily Effren

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

SEPTEMBER 2020

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September 2020

THE GOOD STUFF

70

STANDING ON TOP OF THE WORLD

20 PARKS TO VISIT IN CENTRAL TEXAS SEPTEMBER 2020

66 RUNNING WITH TRAIL ROOTS 8

Contents

HIGHLIGHTS

Digital Content 10 | Community Corner: Personal Trainers on Our Radar 84 | Rides and Races 88 | Events 90

42

CLIMBING AROUND AUSTIN

48

HOW TO BE CHAMP CITY

74

PRACTICING MINDFULNESS THROUGH YOGA HIKE

NUTRITION

Recipe of the Month 12 Discovering Food Sensitivities 14 Around the World in Austin 16

LIFESTYLE

WELLNESS

Parks to Visit in Central Texas 20 Soulful Journeys 52 Eco-Home Away From Home 26 Chinese Medicine for Stress Relief 56 In-State Weekend Escape 30 Must-Try Ethically Sourced Wellness FAQ: Jarod Carter PT, Hammocks 36 DPT, MTC 58

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FITNESS

Running ATX Neighborhoods 62 Running with Trail Roots 66 Workout of the Month: My Vinyasa Practice 80

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

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. austinfitmagazine.com

GETTING BACK INTO THE SWING

NUTRITION

What a Healthy Diet Looks like in 2020

SEPTEMBER 2020

WELLNESS

Pregnant & Postpartum Fitness: Let’s Talk About Pelvic Floors

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HEALTH

What You Need to Know About MCT Oil: Health Benefits and Properties

CEO | LOU EARLE PUBLISHER | LYNNE EARLE CTO | DREW TERRY

#KEEPAUSTINFIT Follow us on Instagram: @ AU S T I N F I T Tag us or use the hashtag #keepAustinfit for your post to be featured.

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT | EMILY EFFREN ART DIRECTOR | BEN CHOMIAK PHOTOGRAPHER | BRIAN FITZSIMMONS EDITORIAL ASSISTANT | MONICA HAND STAFF WRITER | CAROLINE BETIK PROOFREADER | HAYLEE REED CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shannon Dolan, AOMA Faculty Members, Alora Jones, Cindy Present, Ann Shippy, M.D. INTERN Alora Jones

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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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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

NUTRITION SPONSOR

Ann Shippy, M.D.

SEPTEMBER 2020

RECIPE OF THE MONTH n Functional medicine doctor, Ann Shippy, shares one of her healthy recipes with us.

S E ARE D SCA LLO P S I N S PINAC H P UR ÉE INGREDIENTS: 1 lb dry sea scallops 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Kosher salt, to taste Cracked pepper, to taste Fresh peas, for garnish Green onions, chopped for garnish Pea Purée: 1 10oz bag frozen peas 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 cup organic spinach 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Kosher salt, to taste Black pepper, to taste PREPARATION: In a skillet on high heat, add the oil and wait until hot. Season scallops with salt and pepper, and add to the skillet. Heat on both sides until cooked through and browned on each side. Set aside.

To make pea purée, boil a pot of water and add peas for 1 minute.

Drain and place in a blender

SEPTEMBER 2020

with the remaining ingredients.

Blend until you get a creamy consistency. Place purée on plates and add scallops. Garnish with fresh peas and green onions.

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TEAM TRAINING. LIFE CHANGING.

functional (And Clean) fitness for everyone.

THE F STANDS FOR FUNCTIONAL TRAINING, A MIX OF CIRCUIT AND HIIT STYLE WORKOUTS GEARED TOWARDS EVERYDAY MOVEMENT. 45 IS THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF TIME FOR SWEAT-DRIPPING, HEART-PUMPING FUN! Our studio has implemented additional cleaning and disinfection procedures, and is now open and operating in line with local requirements.

NUTRITION AUTHOR

Shannon Dolan

DISCOVERING FOOD SENSITIVITIES n Everything you need to know about food sensitivities and how to discover them.

I

eliminate any that exist.

The most common allergens include gluten, dairy, corn, soy and eggs. Gluten, corn and soy are among the crops that are sprayed heavily with pesticides, causing issues with digestion. Dairy and eggs can cause issues due to the processing of the foods, the diet the animal was on and the proteins inside the food that the body may not be able to break down. For example, lactose can be hard for people to break down if they do not produce the enzyme called lactase.

Consuming foods the body is sensitive to leads to inflammation in the intestinal wall and decreased absorption capabilities of the microvilli. When this occurs, the intestinal walls become compromised, and the microvilli cannot absorb nutrients. If not addressed, the inflammation can lead to undigested particles slipping through.

There won’t be actual food particles circulating in your body, but rather structures of molecules that are not broken down. These molecules cause inflammation throughout the body.

The most recognizable symptom of a food sensitivity includes an upset stomach, diarrhea and/

n a study published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, roughly 20 percent of adults report having some sort of food allergy or sensitivity, with reports of sensitivities being on the rise.

Evidence of this increase can be seen at the grocery store and when dining out—with more and more menus and aisles marked for gluten-free and dairy-free options to accommodate customers.

What is the main difference between an allergy and a sensitivity?

One can be life-threatening. A true allergy causes an intense immune system reaction. This reaction is felt shortly after ingesting the food. If an allergy is severe, it can even lead to anaphylactic shock. A food sensitivity is a little less intense but still triggers a reaction in the immune system. Even though sensitivities don’t trigger an anaphylactic shock and may not elicit a histamine response, food sensitivities may not be felt until a few hours, a day or possibly longer after exposure of the food.

While a food sensitivity is not life-threatening like a true allergy, it is still necessary to rule out and

SEPTEMBER 2020

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baseline reading of your pulse, sitting and standing.

Consume the food you are looking to test, wait about 30 minutes and take your pulse again. Wait an additional 30 minutes, take your pulse and repeat this about three times. An elevation in pulse indicates that there could be a sensitivity. Do this reading and test for about three days to see if there is consistency with the readings.

Elimination diet: Once you have discovered those potential triggers, it is best to start an elimination diet. Elimination diets consist of removing the food that is causing flare-ups for about a month and then gradually including it back into your diet.

If the symptoms reappear, you know you’ve found the culprit and should eliminate that food for the time being while focusing on repairing gut health.

When reintroducing foods, make sure to keep track of your energy, mood and symptoms. Remember: food sensitivity symptoms don’t always look like stomach pains. Start slow and gradually build up your exposure.

Considerations to keep in mind during this process:

• Symptoms can take hours until they are felt—this is why keeping track of symptoms is so important.

• While having a small portion of the food you are sensitive to may feel fine, internally there can be inflammation.

• If the body seems to be allergic to many foods, seek out the help of a nutrition professional to help address gut health.

Along with these tests, it is imperative to heal the gut.

When the gut is exposed to the sensitivities, it becomes inflamed, meaning you have to put out the fire. The best way to do this is by eliminating those sensitivities and focus on consuming gut-healing foods. Gut-healing foods include bone broth, fermented foods, cooked vegetables (they are easier to digest) and healthy fats.

Lastly, know that it may take time to heal the symptoms one experiences with food sensitivities, but don’t let it discourage you. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to purchase, making the transition of eliminating foods easier! afm

or constipation. Other symptoms that are related to food sensitivities include brain fog, eczema, acne, bloat, sinus congestion, headaches, painful periods, excessive cravings of the same foods that you are sensitive to, blood sugar imbalance and fatigue.

While there are plenty of food sensitivity kits on the market, there are some ways that you can test sensitivities at home.

Food log: Begin keeping track of what you are eating and how you feel. This gives tremendous insight to what is going on internally. Track your food, energy levels and mood throughout the day. If any of the symptoms listed above appear, you know you are on to something!

From here, you can break down that meal to examine the ingredients that are potentially leading to the sensitivity. Try different variations, or eliminate pieces to see what makes you feel better. It’s best to use a nutrition professional to help assist you with this process.

Pulse test: In Functional Nutritional Therapy, we use a plethora of tests to look for sensitivities. One that can be done at home is the pulse test. Take a

Shannon Dolan is a nutritional therapy practitioner, personal trainer and owner of Health With Shannon.

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

NUTRITION AUTHOR

Alora Jones

AROUND THE WORLD IN AUSTIN n Take a trip around the world with Austin’s restaurant scene. Here’s eight to get you started.

Originally opened in 1948 in Beaumont, Texas, Patrizi’s has been a family-owned business for 50 years. It has since been reopened in Austin and is located in the Vortex Theater Courtyard—a fantastic dining experience.

Try The Great Leopold, made with lemon zest, pepitas, crushed red chilis, basil and arugula pesto served with grana padano cheese. You can even choose to add on chicken arrosto, roasted chicken thighs with rosemary, lemon and pomodoro sauce. The prices are reasonable for the large and scrumptious portions given.

2307 Manor Road

SEPTEMBER 2020

PHOTO COURTESY OF PATRIZI’S

PATRI ZI ’ S | I TA L I A N

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6406 N. I-35 Frontage Road, Suite #1550

C H O SUN G ALBI | KOR E A N

PHOTO BY GAMMIE L

The best way to describe Lima Criolla: exquisite Peruvian food. Try the Ceviche Mixto, a seafood and fish dish marinated in lime juice and ají, topped with herbs and served on lettuce and onions with a side of sweet potatoes and corn. For a phenomenal steak dish, try their Pure con Asado, which is roast beef marinated with vinegar and panca pepper, served with garlic rice and mashed potatoes. Traditional drinks such as the Pisco Sour are even offered at the restaurant as well.

Immerse your taste buds in these traditional Peruvian dishes—all for an affordable price.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LIMA CRIOLLA

L I M A CRI O L L A | P E RU VI A N

Dining at Chosun Galbi is a decadent Korean barbeque experience. The menu is full of options, including some to even cook yourself on the table top grill, such as Yangnyum Galbi (marinated beef short ribs) and Dwaeji Bulgogi (slices of pork marinated in housemade soy sauce). In addition, the restaurant offers an assortment of hot pots—including the Mandoo Kimchi Jeon Gol (Korean-style dumplings with beef and vegetables in a kimchi stew). So much flavorful food is given with each order, so leaving hungry is very unlikely.

713 E. Huntland Drive

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

n NUTRITION

If you’re in search of true, authentic Mexican food, Curra’s Grill is the restaurant for you.

Serving tacos, enchiladas, tamales, nachos and so much more—they have it all. One of Curra’s popular dishes is the cochinita pibil, a traditional Yucatan meal with marinated pork leg cooked in a banana leaf and served with rice, black beans and plantains, when they are in season. There is also a wide variety of breakfast items such as migas, chilaquiles, and huevos curras. With so many items to choose from, you’re guaranteed to leave full and satisfied.

614 E. Oltorf Street

PHOTO COURTESY OF CURRA’S GRILL

CU RRA’ S G R ILL | M E X I C A N

H A B E SH A E T H IO P IA N R E S TAUR A NT | E THIOP IAN

6019 N. I-35

SEPTEMBER 2020

PHOTO COURTESY OF HABESHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT

Habesha, a family-owned business, serves stunning, traditional Ethiopian plates. For an appetizer, try the Ayib Be Gomen Roll—fresh cottage cheese and spinach wrapped in injera. In addition, Habesha offers many vegetarian, vegan, beef, lamb, poultry and fish entree options.

Featured in the image is the Doro Tibs—chicken breast cubes sauteed in onion, jalapeno, tomatoes and habesha spices, served with injera or rice.

The prices at Habesha are also reasonable, especially for the unique and beautifully plated dishes.

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PHOTO BY PHILLIP BAILEY

PHOTO COURTESY OF FABI + ROSI

FABI + RO SI | E U RO P E A N

A LM A R AH MED IT ER R AN EAN C UISIN E | ME D ITE R R AN E AN

This award-winning European kitchen offers excellent quality and dishes that are all locally sourced.

The biergarten menu is densely packed with tasty items. Try starting with the charcuterie and cheese, which comes with chicken liver paté, smoked duck breast, brie and valdeón. For a main course, have a schnitzel, which is heritage pork, spätzle, krautsalat and pilzrahmsoße. Another great option is the duck confit—a crispy duck leg and green bean salad. Finish off with a goat cheese and gingerbread crust chévre tart for dessert. In addition, the restaurant offers a vast assortment of drink options and an unforgettable, calming ambience.

This family-owned restaurant offers delicious dishes that have been perfected over generations. Enjoy an appetizer of hummus, described on their menu as a Middle Eastern blend of garbanzo beans, tahini, fresh garlic, lemon and olive oil. One of the best parts? They give each table a complimentary loaf of pita bread. For a lighter meal, order the Gyro Salad, which is full of kalamata olives, cucumbers, romaine lettuce, pepperoncini, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, Greek feta cheese, gyro meat and a homemade tzatziki sauce dressing. The mediterranean menu also includes shawarma plates, kabob plates, pizzas, wings and falafel. The prices are excellent, the interior is welcoming and all of the menu items are made with halal ingredients.

AS IA NA IN D IAN C UISIN E | IN D IAN If you’re looking for a flavor-packed meal, try Asiana. To sample some of the wide variety of items offered at the restaurant, start with an assorted platter appetizer, which comes with Samosa, spring rolls, reshmi kebobs and chicken keema samosa. The entree menu offers a plethora of choices such as lamb curry, chicken tikka masala, paneer butter masala and so much more. There are even combination dinner-for-two options, one of which is vegetarian. At Asiana Indian Cuisine, the pricing is reasonable and the portions are served in a large quantity—you won’t be disappointed.

PHOTO BY @THEHUNGRYLONGHORN

509 Hearn Street

12129 Ranch Road Road 620 N., Suite 450

801 E. William Cannon Drive, #205

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

LIFESTYLE AUTHOR

Alora Jones

PARKS TO VISIT IN CENTRAL TEXAS n Tired of staying home? Hop in the car and visit one of the many parks Central Texas has to offer.

F

PHOTO BY APRIL MORLEY

inding a place to step outside and enjoy some fresh air is no difficult task in Central Texas.

There are numerous parks with alluring, scenic views and a plethora of amenities for the whole family. We have compiled a list of eight must-see locations that will lead to days full of remarkable adventure and exploration.

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W E S T C AVE O UT D O O R D ISC OV ERY C EN T ER Westcave Preserve is a 76-acre, picturesque wonder. There are many hands-on educational programs offered at the discovery center, especially for children. In addition, tours of the cave, grotto, canyon and breathtaking waterfall can be reserved. The uplands area also offers scenic hiking trails and a cabin built in the 1900s. Soon, the uplands area of the preserve will add a new bird blind, a trail with a stunning overlook of the Pedernales River and more butterfly gardens.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

24814 Hamilton Pool Road, Round Mountain, TX

LO NG H O R N C AV ER N STAT E PAR K While this park goes down underground, it will top the list for uniqueness in the area. The cave was cleared by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and an exhibit of their work can be seen at the park. The cave resides 130 feet underground, making it quite chilly. It also presents a vast assortment of beautiful, natural features. The park offers a 90-minute walking tour, just over a mile long. However, for a more adventurous experience, there is a twoto three-hour Wild Cave Tour of the lower, undeveloped level. Both tours can be booked for private groups.

6211 Park Road 4 S., Burnet, TX

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

n LIFESTYLE

WI L D BAS IN WI L DE RN E S S P R E S E RV E This 227-acre nature preserve is extremely scenic. At the preserve, there is a Creative Research Center which helps visitors learn about nature, in addition to the many educational activities offered for children, such as a microscope station, a bird-watching station and an interpretive trail map. Many more exhibits for kids are available along with educational events. The preserve also offers 2.5 miles of hiking trails with optional guided hikes. Step out of your home and step into the spectacular nature Texas has to offer.

805 N. Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX

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Located in the main basin of Lake Travis, Tom Hughes Park has a great view, especially at sunset, and is often not too busy. Even though the trails leading down to the shore can be very rocky and steep, the water at the shoreline is crystal clear and a fantastic swimming spot. A barbeque pit and picnic area are available at the park.

12714 Hughes Park Road, Austin, TX PHOTO BY ELEVATED IMAGERY

PHOTO BY CINDI GAINES. INSTAGRAM: @CINDIGAINESPHOTOGRAPHY

T O M HUG H ES PAR K

BUT LER ME T R O PAR K If you’re looking for a destination that is fun for the whole family, look no further than Butler Metro Park. It is a “green” park, meaning all of the maintenance on the park is done with propaneor electricity-powered equipment and is irrigated by Lady Bird Lake. The park also offers several pathways for running, biking and walking. A recent addition to the park is a children’s garden, featuring unique play equipment overlooking the cityscape. The park even boasts a colorful fountain, a splash pad and the Pitch & Putt nine-hole golf course.

1000 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

COURTESY OF CITY OF AUSTIN PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

n LIFESTYLE

M AYF I E L D PA R K After the 23-acre property was purchased in 1909 by the Mayfield family. Their daughter, Mary, and her husband, Milton, spent the years following the purchase making it beautiful until it was given to them in 1935. When Mary passed, she gave the land and cottage to the city to become a park. Now, Mayfield Park displays beautiful gardens and wildlife that can be seen throughout the location. There are six ponds, which house lilies, frogs, fish, turtles and snakes, and, every so often, herons can be found near the ponds. In addition, the park’s peacocks can even be seen roaming the charming hiking trails.

3505 W 35th Street, Austin, TX

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2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX

R OY G . G UER R ER O PAR K Located on the Colorado River, the Roy G. Guerrero Park is allencompassing with plenty of amenities for an entire day spent in nature. There is a large playground, disc golf course, volleyball court, a space to play soccer as well as softball and baseball fields.

Bluebonnets can be spotted along the hiking trails during the spring months, and the park even has access to a sandy beach area with a swimming spot along the river.

PHOTO BY ERIC TOWLER

Pedernales Falls State Park is an oasis just outside of Austin that is great for a camping or day trip.

There are trails of various intensities suitable for hiking, walking or biking. In addition, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, fishing and swimming are allowed in the river. The park is also a prime spot for geocaching, which is a unique adventure for the whole family. While you’re there, take a detailed look at the local critters with the butterfly garden and bird blind.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

PEDE RN A L E S FA LLS STATE PA RK

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400 Grove Boulevard, Austin, TX

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

LIFESTYLE AUTHOR

Monica Hand

PHOTOGRAPHY

Courtesy of Alex Hopes

ECO-HOME AWAY FROM HOME n Zilker Bark founder opens Eco-Retreat in Santa Fe­—here’s what you need to know about this sustainable destination.

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T

he idea for Casa Chicoma all started with a trip to Columbia in early 2019. Although it had been in the works for quite some time, evolving in the back of their minds, it was there in Columbia that Michele Abbaticchio and Alex Hopes found the spark of inspiration that brought the idea of opening a hostel-style Airbnb fully to life.

“I stayed at my first hostel

I JUST ALWAYS HAD THIS KIND OF FAR OUT DREAM OF DOING THAT MYSELF ONE DAY WHILE ALSO INCORPORATING SUSTAINABILITY AND SOME KIND OF DOG ASPECT TO RAISE MONEY OR AWARENESS FOR LOCAL STREET DOGS.”

when I was 19 and fell in love with the communal vibe of it all,” Abbaticchio says. “I just always had this kind of far out dream of doing that myself one day while also incorporating sustainability and some kind of dog aspect to raise money or awareness for local street dogs.”

Abbaticchio and Hopes are well known in the Austin community.

Abbaticchio is the creative visual designer behind the illustrious

Zeva Creative, having done work for the likes of NadaMoo! and continually helping brands find a consistent and authentic voice and branding style. Hopes is also a traveling dog photographer and the founder of ZilkerBark, an Austinfocused, dog photography business that raises money for local, animalrelated nonprofits like Austin Pets Alive!.

Nevertheless, both Abbaticchio and Hopes were ready to take their lives to the next chapter and find a home fit for them and their three dogs—Zeva, Sid and Polly.

“We didn’t go to Columbia with the idea of looking for properties,” Hopes recalls. “But while we were there, we ended up searching and ultimately finding one that we thought was perfect.”

However, the idea of purchasing in Columbia quickly fell apart due to the complicated property buying and owning process, but that little taste of the dream kept them brainstorming even once they arrived back in Austin.

“Then, the Texas summer heat hit,” Hopes says. “We just thought, ‘There has to be an alternative to this,’ and that’s when Santa Fe popped into our heads.”

Having visited Santa Fe once before, the couple already knew it was a great place for an escape— and had the potential to be the place they were dreaming of. So, in

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September of 2019, the couple took the trip to New Mexico with high hopes.

Just as they thought, Santa Fe really did have everything they were searching for. Surrounded by mountains, the area has an endless amount of outdoor activities available such as hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing.

While Abbaticchio and Hopes previously wanted to go abroad for the B&B, the city itself was full of a unique and authentic culture that made the decision easy.

“They call it ‘The City Different,’ and it really is different from anywhere else in the U.S.,” Abbaticchio says. “There are definitely parts of the city that, when you’re walking around, it feels almost like you’re in another country.”

The blend of cultures comes out through the food, as the Southwestern style boasts a wide variety of dishes and cuisines that has in recent years made Santa Fe a foodie destination.

“I think food was another important aspect of choosing a place for us,” Hopes says. “We’re so spoiled in Austin to have such great food, so we wanted to find somewhere where that was the same. And the food here is, hands down, spectacular.”

The couple was also drawn to the idea of untouched nature—it

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n LIFESTYLE

was an important factor for them as they sought a property to build on. Originally, Hopes says, they were looking for five to ten acres to build on from the ground up with sustainably-running casitas and vegetation.

“But when we were in Santa Fe to look for properties,” Abbaticchio says, “we found this place on sale that just seemed like it had been made for us. It really was perfect.”

The 2.5-acre property that they found and ultimately purchased already had four rental units including three casitas and a refurbished 1948 Spartan Travel Trailer; a 120-tree micro forest; a 1,200-square-foot greenhouse with olive trees and grape vines; a geodome with mature fig trees; a natural, cold plunge swimming pool; and miles of hiking trails leading from the back of the property.

“The previous owner had been working on the land for 30 years,”

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Abbaticchio explains. “She had invested a lot into the property and had so much passion for what she was doing here.”

Needless to say, just 12 minutes away from the Santa Fe Plaza, they found their sustainable Airbnb dream at last—Casa Chicoma.

“We have a really unique property out here in Santa Fe, because it really has a lot of life,” Hopes says. “A lot of the area is pretty barren with only the native junipers and such, but here we have all sorts of trees, plants and flowers.”

The previous owner had regenerated the dried-out, New Mexican topsoil and created an oasis in the desert, all of which runs on sustainable, permaculture systems. Before she moved out, she spent a week with Hopes and Abbaticchio teaching them the ins and outs of the property.

“We learned a lot in that week, but it was really just skimming the surface,” Abbaticchio says.

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“There’s a learning curve for sure, but she’s on call for us and is always happy to help us out with any questions we have.”

Abbaticchio has experience working on several farms, both in Austin and growing up in rural Maryland, so she’s excited to be able to continue to cultivate the land and grow a plethora of produce. With all that they have on their plate right now, she’s started out small for the time being but has big plans for the future.

“There’s a ton of room for more gardening,” Abbaticchio says. “Hopefully one day we’ll be producing a majority of our food here and maybe even figure out a way to have it for the guests.”

Since they moved into the property in December of last year, the couple has planted 25 more trees in the micro forest, raised all sorts of fruits and vegetables and began building an additional rental unit and bath house in the open field—all of which will continue

and add to the permaculture style of the property.

“We were getting ready to launch in April, and then COVID kicked our butts,” Hopes says.

“It’s been slow, but it’s been good here. It’s given us a lot of time to just kind of learn more about the property and work on it and grow on a lot of the things that the previous owner had done.”

They’ve been hosting at about 50- to 60-percent capacity during the quarantine, and everything has run smoothly since every rental has its own entrance and space away from the other occupants, and the openness allows one to avoid any unwanted contact.

“I feel like guests here feel pretty safe since everyone has kind of their own space. You don’t have to interact with anyone if you don’t want to,” Abbaticchio says.

“And the property itself is pretty isolated, so in my opinion, it’s really a great place to be at through this time.”

Some of the best times to visit, Hopes says, are in the summer’s monsoon season or in October and September. To learn more about each of the unique rental spaces and the property itself, check out Casa Chicoma’s website or get a tour from each of their three dogs

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on its Instagram page.

“It’s a great place for people who love dogs and care about the Earth,” Hopes says. “[It’s for] people who are interested in permaculture and care about making the most out of what you have.” afm

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

LIFESTYLE AUTHOR

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETAWAY HOUSE, MICHELLE WATT @WATTPHOTO

Caroline Betik

AN IN-STATE WEEKEND ESCAPE n A guide to the ultimate staycation: 7 places to book less than 2 hours away from Austin.

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t may not be a dreamy, white sand beach located somewhere far, far away, but a staycation in Central Texas will certainly satisfy your itch to be anywhere but home for the weekend. With different food from around the world, fine wineries scattered across the Hill Country and plenty of trails, rivers and nature to explore with your family, a two hour drive is not short of adventure.

These seven “glamping” rentals will make any weekend memorable as you marvel in the beauty of Texas in a new and whimsical way.

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TI N Y M O D E R N C A B IN  |   G E TAWAY HOUS E , W IMBE R LE Y Immerse yourself in Hill Country and stay in a tiny, modern cabin in the heart of Texas. In this cozy outpost, take a break from technology by placing your phones in the lockbox provided and embrace the chirping crickets, tall trees that rustle and dance in the wind and a sky awake with shimmering stars around you. All of this, with the comforts of a queen size bed, hot shower and toilet, AC, and other amenities will make your stay relaxing and rejuvenating.

During the day, venture out to the many sights near your cabin. Climb the 220 stairs to behold rolling hills, rock formations and a gorgeous view of the Frio River embedded in the Wimberley Valley at Old Baldy. Get some fresh air and sunshine on a hike at one of the many walking trails nearby. You can even make your stay classy with a visit to a local winery. Stop by for a tasting and pick some up to enjoy around the campfire.

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n LIFESTYLE YU RT | G RE E N AC RE S, E L G I N Choose from one of the five yurts at Green Acres, a privately owned space promised to offer true rest and great hospitality. In less than an hour from Austin, you can unwind and unplug in the pleasing combination of nature and serenity of your stay.

PHOTO FROM GREENACRESATX.COM

Enjoy a nap or good book in the hammocks provided on site or add to the aesthetic sound of nature with the laughs of you and your companions during a game of cornhole, ping pong and other fun games. Don’t forget to pay a visit to your neighbors—some furry farm animals including alpacas and donkeys.

Rent on Airbnb

S IO UX- S T Y LE T IP I | MYS TIC Q UAR RY, C AN YON LAKE

PHOTO BY JIM FLYNN

The tipi pods at Mystic Quarry were made and inspired by the styles of Native American culture.

Designed to accommodate up to two people max (and one child), these tipis have been modernized to ensure a noteworthy lodging experience without having to ditch modern amenities. Mystic Quarry gives you the opportunity to do what makes you the most relaxed, whether that’s watching a movie in bed with the AC or stargazing around the campfire outside.

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During the day, take advantage of the amenities all around you. Take a dip in the pool, play a game of sand volleyball or take a peek at the beehives and bat boxes located on the camping grounds.

If you venture off-site, see some of the magnificent views of Texas Hill Country the true Texas way. Hop on horseback and explore Canyon Lake, Texas or bring your fishing gear and spend some time in the Guadalupe River with the Texas state fish, the Guadalupe bass. If fishing isn’t for you, rent a tube and cool down on a float down the river.

The past and present collide during a stay in this old fashioned covered wagon. Tucked away on a ranch near Lake Somerville State Park, appreciate the bliss of the peaceful countryside with modern amenities, including wifi, for a pleasant stay. Prepare nice meals over the campfire or get to know the host and let her cook for you.

Take advantage of the secluded ranch and acres of land. In the open pastures, look up at the night sky to see the twinkling stars. Walk a little ways into the more forested areas and cross paths with many exotic wildlife from a variety of birds to bison, antelope and deer.

The ranch also offers many recreational activities to pass the time. Test your skills at archery or meander the ranch on horseback. With bikes, canoes and fishing gear available for rent, the ranch is never short of things to do and see.

Additionally, nearby is Lake Somerville State Park where you can take in yet another serene atmosphere filled with wildlife and over 40 miles of trails. Rent on Hipcamp

T R E E H O USE | CYP R E S S VALLE Y, S P IC E WOOD

PHOTO BY FOREST CROFT

Embrace your inner child who always wanted to stay overnight in a treehouse. Reserve up to a two-night stay for an adventure the whole family will remember and enjoy. Nestled high in the branches of large Cypress trees, these facilities were created as a way to enjoy the beauty of nature without ruining its ecosystem. Slumber to the sounds of the creeks below in a furnished treehouse accommodated with all the essential glamping necessities.

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During your stay, embark on an epic zipline adventure, flying through the trees as they dance around you (COVID-19 may alter this). If you feel like getting on the ground, head out of the trees down below and have a picnic or enjoy a swim in the lake located nearby. Venture out into Spicewood for even more adventure. Take a swim in Krause Springs, mountain bike at Pace Bend or unwind with a glass of wine at a variety of wineries located nearby.

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PHOTO BY SKEETER HAGLER

C OV E RE D WAG ON | C AT SP RI N G

n LIFESTYLE

This renovated backyard school bus is a great option for those who want to fully indulge in the “Keep Austin Weird” mantra. Loaded with a full kitchen, bathroom, shower and bed for two, this renovated school bus will hardly remind you of your grade school days. Complete with hanging plants and a backyard space shared with a coop of chickens, the Backyard Land Yacht will fit the exact Austin vibe you’re looking for with a stay in the city.

PHOTO FROM AIRBNB.COM

BACKYA RD LA ND YAC H T CH ER RYWO OD , AU ST I N

Located in the Cherrywood neighborhood, stroll by houses to hang at a local coffee shop or to dine at one of Austin’s many famous eateries. With a short drive downtown, get some sun at Zilker Park or kayak at Lady Bird Lake.

Rent on Airbnb

A IR S T R E A M S | WIMBE R LE Y Airstreams are a popular pick for people who are looking for an affordable, yet cozy getaway.

If you have ever wanted to experience travelling with a camper or RV, a weekend getaway in an Airstream is a great opportunity to do so. There are plenty of Airbnb Airstreams parked in Wimberley that offers guests a place to kick back and relax privately. A campfire to roast s’mores, a picnic table to bring your meals outside and one even has a jacuzzi that will give guests a peaceful time to appreciate the soothing calm of the country around them.

Wimberley is known for having some of the best natural swimming holes in Texas. Before your stay, make reservations to visit Jacob’s Well, the second largest fully submerged cave in Texas. For thrill seekers, take a zip at Wimberley’s Zipline Adventures to get a bird’s eye view of the area. For something more cost efficient, drive around the twists, turns and hills and appreciate a painted sky at sunset and maybe spot a glimpse of the deer roaming about.

Rent on Glampinghub.com

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DIGITAL WALK We are grateful for people, like you, who have worked with us relentlessly to build healthier communities for everyone, everywhere. In this new reality, there will be new challenges for all of us as we press forward TOGETHER to achieve our mission.

WE ARE WITH YOU, AUSTIN.

HEALTHY FOR GOOD SPONSORS

AUSTINHEARTWALK.ORG

LIFESTYLE AUTHOR

Alora Jones

MUST-TRY ETHICALLY SOURCED HAMMOCKS n Hammocks are a great way to spend hours relaxing anywhere, especially when hanging with one from a mission-based company.

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ith little to do during COVID times, try swinging your worries away while relaxing in a hammock and soaking in the change of the season. Hammocks are great to have on hand wherever your adventure may lead, especially if you want to secure a momentary, personal oasis in Austin’s nature scene.

Since many Austinites are spending more time outside (socially distanced, of course), hammocks are ideal items to bring along for the fun. To get you started, we’ve rounded up a list of mission-based hammock companies that will leave you excited to get outside and enjoy the last bit of summer.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOBO HAMMOCKS

H O BO HAMMO C KS Two years ago, the founder of Hobo Hammocks created the company after spending some time being homeless by choice. The company’s mission is to give a healthy meal to a homeless person with every purchase of a hammock. Also, you can donate an old hammock and receive a new one at a discounted price. The old hammocks are repaired and given to a homeless person in need of shelter. The portable double hammocks come with a pouch, two steel carabiners, two 10-foot hobo straps and a lifetime unlimited warranty all for the affordable price of $59.

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n LIFESTYLE

PHOTO COURTESY OF YELLOW LEAF HAMMOCKS

Y ELLOW LEAF H AMMOCKS Handwoven by the Mlabri tribe in northern Thailand, Yellow Leaf Hammocks aspires to help its artisans out of extreme poverty, create ethical jobs for mothers and positively empower communities.

The unique, soft hammocks come with a tote and free shipping. The hammocks are versatile and perfect for indoor or outdoor lounging with room for up to three people.

There is even an option to design your own signature handwoven hammock. Captivating Yellow Leaf products can also be purchased on Amazon.

Want to relax out on the water but also in a hammock? MelloShip is an environmentally friendly, solar-powered, motorized hammock boat. Two hammocks with a 500-pound weight limit can be suspended on the boat for serene relaxation. The boat comes with two beverage holders, fishing pole attachment points, a speaker mount and an umbrella mount. In addition, the company also offers numerous customizations for a MelloShip such as popup seats, an extended yoga/camping deck or a cooler mount.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MELLOSHIP

M E L L O SH I P

PHOTO COURTESY OF LA SIESTA

Hang A Hammock Collective crafts handmade hammocks from a team of Nicaraguan artisans. The company offers its team incredible benefits and even co-manages a tree farm in the Carazo region. All of the wood used to make each product comes from Nicaraguan trees, and all of the products are recyclable. The handwoven hammocks are gorgeous, soft, intricate and even hand-signed by the artisans. In addition to hammocks, the company also sells stunning baby swings, hanging chairs, hanging cribs and plant hangers.

Hang A Hammock Collective even offers virtual workshops that teach how to use macrame knots to weave a swing or crib and mails all of the materials to your home straight from Nicaragua.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANG A HAMMOCK COLLECTIVE

HA N G A H A M M O C K C O LLE C T IV E

L A S IE S TA La Siesta is a family business that thrives on environmental responsibility and sustainability and works to fund a youth center in Brazil. It sells spacious hammocks and hammock chairs handcrafted in Brazil and Colombia with vibrant colors. In addition, there are light and affordable travel hammocks which can also transform into a picnic or beach blanket. For the kids, the website also has children’s size washable hammocks. All of these colorful products can be located on Amazon.

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

PHOTO COURTESY OF CIELO HAMMOCKS

n LIFESTYLE

C IE LO H A M M O C KS Cielo Hammocks provides artisans with the raw materials to hand weave hammocks from the comfort of their homes in the Mayan villages of Yucatan, Mexico, in order to support their families. Cielo Hammocks is committed to making a difference in the local community and empowering employees by fighting poverty and supporting gender equality, all while providing customers with quality products. The hammocks are uniquely crafted by the individual weavers to create a wide variety of designs and styles. One style of woven Cielo Hammocks can even be purchased on Amazon.

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KA M M O K

PHOTO BY HOWIE BENEFIEL

Headquartered in Austin, Kammok sells contemporary items perfect for lounging in the backyard. One of Kammok’s new products, Baya™, is a lounge stand that allows six people, or three double hammocks, to convene together. The company also has waterresistant hammocks, hammock tents, kids’ hammocks and even insect nets—all of which have a lifetime warranty. Each year, the company donates one percent of its top line revenue to its nonprofit partners that focus on youth outdoor mentorship such as Explore Austin. The community and sustainability are key in the production of Kammok products, which can also be found on Amazon.

H AC K ED PAC K

PHOTO COURTESY OF HACKED PACK

Never worry about forgetting a hammock again with Hacked Pack, a hammock with a built-in backpack.

The backpack has enough storage to hold whatever is needed for an on-the-go adventure. The parachute, nylon hammock has 9-foot straps and can hold up to 500 pounds. One of the founders of Hacked Pack was even once an Austinite and Longhorn.

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CLIMBING APRIL SEPTEMBER 2020

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2020

AROUND AUSTIN

The ins and outs of climbing in Austin and how to get started in the fun.

AUTHOR MONICA HAND

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Austin is known to be packed with outdoor amenities located both within and around the city limits.

From hiking to cave exploring, there’s never a lack of options for a day in the great outdoors.

In addition to Austin’s regular bucket list, our city also offers a plethora of rock climbing possibilities within a two-hour radius: Reimers Ranch, Enchanted Rock, Lake Travis, Monster Rock and, of course, the Green Belt. All of these Central Texas destinations have their own unique qualities while also offering great climbing experiences. To get the scoop on Austin’s popular climbing scene, AFM spoke with a couple climbing professionals to learn more about the community, getting started and best spots around the city.

Adam Mitchell, president of the Texas Climbers Coalition and owner of the Rock About guide service, explains that Central Texas is a prime climbing location because of the permitting weather.

“What makes Austin unique from say, Colorado, is not only the proximity of climbing but also the ability to climb year-round,” Mitchell says. “We don’t have to worry about ice and snow shutting anything down.”

The Community

Like many unique communities in Austin, the climbing community has grown and evolved over the years.

Mitchell, who is a certified climbing instructor, says the sport also used to be taught through more of a mentorship-style of learning.

“It used to be someone would take you out and teach you how to do it all,” Mitchell says. “Now, there’s just so many people interested in

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climbing that that’s not possible and increases the spread of wrong information and more opportunity for injuries.”

It’s also because of this growing, loyal community that climbing continues to be a top activity in Austin. Troy Wilson, co-owner of Austin Rock Gym and owner of White Star Mountain Guides & Climbing School, says that, with Austin’s constant interest and support for the sport, Austin Rock Gym has been able to stay in business for so many years, making it Austin’s oldest climbing gym.

“Austin is also made a great place for climbing through the accessibility and support from the city, county and state parks,” Wilson says. “Groups like TCC, American Alpine Club, Access Fund, Texas Parks & Wildlife and more take climbing very seriously and work hard to keep it accessible.”

Getting Started

With the many climbing gyms around Austin, there’s a clear path for physical training, but when it comes to learning the ropes, literally and figuratively, it may be safest to talk to a professional.

“Connecting with experienced and knowledgeable climbers or a professional guide or instructor is highly recommended,” Wilson says. “This will ensure your safety and help you understand what is required.”

Guide services like Mitchell’s Rock About and Wilson’s White Star provide specific and critical training for technique and safety like knots, commands and mental preparedness. It’s important to ensure that any teacher is certified.

“It’s important to know how

to fall, how to belay, how to communicate,” Mitchell says. “You need a teacher that really knows what they’re doing.”

The ATX Climbing Spots

GR EENB E LT The Greenbelt offers some 15 access points and around 200

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climbing routes. With it being so close to downtown, Austin is lucky to have this natural escape so close to the city. It’s because of this accessibility that Austin has such a broad climbing community and provides easy access to those interested in trying out the sport themselves.

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CLIMBING GYMS ARE SET UP TO BE VERY ACCOMMODATING TO ALL CLIMBERS. SOME GYMS OFFER SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES BUT RELATIVELY EXIST FOR THE SAME REASON: GET PEOPLE CLIMBING.”

Mitchell explains that this isn’t something most cities in the U.S. come close to offering.

“Actually, it’s very hard to find climbing within 10 minutes of your house or work,” Mitchell says. “Most places are 30 minutes to an hour away, and here we can add in an easy, after-work climb.”

In addition, with the Greenbelt being so shaded, climbing yearround is easy—even in the hot months of summer. The area is heavily trafficked with all sorts of runners, bikers and nature lovers, but that’s just part of the deal with such a close, natural gem.

R E I M E R S RA NCH Located off of Hamilton Road in Dripping Springs, Texas, Milton Reimers Ranch Park offers a great weekend coupled with a fun and easy climbing experience—perfect for a family outing. Since Reimers is a popular Central Texas destination, the park has a limited capacity and can fill up quickly. (Add in graphic: AFM Tip: Book early and make sure to bring cash!)

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“Reimers Ranch probably has the most variety available for beginners,” Mitchell explains.

“There’s just a diverse set of pretty great options overall.”

Ranging from beginner to more advanced, there’s a diverse mix of vertical and overhanging routes. The property offers a lot more than just climbing, so it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowds and to ensure entry before capacity is hit.

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MONSTER ROCK Recently purchased by the partnership between Texas Climbers Coalition and Access Fund, this climbing experience at Monster Rock takes place in a fissure between two rock walls and offers a variety of routes and challenges for advanced climbers.

The property boasts 45 lead routes, 7 top rope sections and over 35 bouldering challenges.

It’s important to wear a helmet if climbing here due to the risk that the wall behind a climber in the fissure causes a risk in the case of a fall.

L A K E T RAVI S Ever heard of deep-water soloing?

It is an especially popular climbing style during the summer—only when the water is high enough. In this particular climbing style, one takes a boat or other means to a cliff bottom and boulders their way up without the use of gear.

“Deep-water soloing is another unique thing Austin offers for the summers,” Mitchell says. “Once you’re done climbing or if you fall, you just splash down into the water.”

Rock About, Mitchell’s climbing guide service, is the only guide service in the state and U.S. to offer this style to clients. Although accessible without a service, being able to have the boat and locations taken care of leaves more time to climb.

Climbing Gyms

There are several great climbing gyms around Austin like Crux, Austin Bouldering Project, Austin Rock Gym and more. Many fitness gyms also offer climbing walls, though they are typically smaller in scale and don’t have the support available for teaching new climbers.

“Climbing gyms are set up to be very accommodating to all

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climbers,” Wilson says. “Some gyms offer slightly different experiences but relatively exist for the same reason: get people climbing.”

Wilson explains that the style and experience of climbing indoor rather than outdoor is very different.

He says that while outdoor climbing is an amazing experience and allows one to connect with nature while being physically challenged, it requires a deeper understanding of gear, skills and technique that should be learned and practiced before setting out alone. afm

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

How to Champ

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Be City Eric Champ, fitness trainer and owner of a 14-by-7 mobile gym, shares his journey to a holistic and healthy lifestyle.

A U T H O R E M I LY E F F R E N PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELA DORAN @ANGELADORANPHOTOGRAPHY

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Sitting in the driveway of Eric Champ’s home is a 14-by-7 black trailer he has towed all over Austin, equipped with almost every piece of workout equipment any fitness enthusiast could dream of. On the side of the trailer is a white logo of a kettlebell and a leaf with “Champ City Holistic Fitness” that reads just beneath it.

The idea for Champ City Holistic Fitness came to Champ after his own significant lifestyle change. As a marine, Champ expected these health and fitness habits he built in the military to continue after, but this was not the case.

“Most folks who come out of the military think being fit physically and mentally is a way of life and it will be with you forever, and it turns out it’s not the case if you’re not working on it,” Champ says.

Champ, now back in shape and working as a holistic health and fitness coach, says before he took his health back, an example of a “good dinner” back then was equivalent to 100 pizza rolls.

“I lost my way for a long period of time,” Champ says.

Even though a major lifestyle change can be difficult, it can be even harder for someone in their late 30s, Champ says. After a dramatic weight loss and eventually getting in shape, Champ realized there were other people out there who were also wanting to make a significant change later in life who needed coaching and inspiration.

“I was like, ‘I need to bring fitness to the front doorstep of these folks,’ and I tried my hardest to think of how I could best do that, and that’s where this mobile gym was born,” Champ says.

Now, Champ has a fully functional, mobile gym he has hitched to the back of his truck and trained clients all over the Austin area. The gym is equipped with four fully functional squat stations, modular systems, wall ball targets, dip stations, a pull-up bar and more.

The trailer can even accommodate up to 15 people for circuit-style training.

That’s just the gym structure itself. Inside, Champ outfitted the trailer with workout equipment from local businesses, accumulating all of his favorite exercise tools such as loadable dumbbells, a rower, medicine balls, slam balls and more.

With so much heavy equipment in the trailer, keeping everything properly secured while being transported is just as important as the contents inside.

Resting inside of what Champ describes as large tool boxes are kettlebells; the barbells have a few hooks to rest on; and he even made a specially designed rack for his bumper plates.

Finally, once all of the workout items are in their designated places, Champ will secure them down with bungee cords and straps to ensure nothing will be moving while being towed around the Texas Hill Country.

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Like many businesses during COVID-19, Champ City Holistic Fitness had to pivot. Since he stopped seeing his clients in person, Champ moved to online coaching and put more time into his quickly growing Instagram page.

The fitness coach says he wanted his business to be more than just getting in shape. He wanted it to provoke not only weight changes, but also mental changes.

“It’s not just the physical body—it’s everything,” Champ says. “If you look at my logo, it’s a kettlebell and a leaf inside. That’s just supposed to be fitness and mental nutrition—all wrapped in one.”

After adopting a healthy fitness routine, Champ had to also dramatically change his eating habits. Now, his refrigerator, which he displayed for AFM during his IG takeover, is full of fruits, vegetables and healthy products.

“It is absolutely possible to learn to love those foods.

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IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE WORKOUT—IT’S ALSO ABOUT ENRICHING THE LIVES OF VERY SPECIFIC GROUPS THAT I’M ALIGNED TO. I HAVE A DEEP PASSION FOR THAT.”

Your body-and-brain gut connection can actually learn to love these foods as much as you would crave a cookie. It just takes time,” Champ says.

Once COVID-19 numbers are on the decline, Champ is going to offer free community workouts with the mobile gym for busy parents and veterans as a way of giving back to the community.

“Being a dad myself, I mean, we are extraordinarily busy, and sometimes we put self care on the back burner, so it’s like, how can I create an environment to where I make it easier for them and have a parentsonly kind of workout to where it was free and other parents can, just like veterans, share their experiences, talk [and] network between each other,” Champ says.

The holistic trainer and veteran says veterans enjoy surrounding themselves with others who have served because of their shared experiences. Champ says he wants to create a community where he could bring them together while fostering health and fitness.

“It’s not just about the workout—it’s also about enriching the lives of very specific groups that I’m aligned to,” Champ says. “I have a deep passion for that.”

During quarantine, Champ has been posting daily, at-home workouts to his Instagram in hopes of sharing some inspiration with the Austin fitness community.

“Everyone deserves wellness; not everyone has access to it,” Champ says. “If I knew that there was something like me out there prior to me really losing my way, maybe I would have found some inspiration sooner.”

Champ says his mantra is, “It’s never too late to make a lifestyle change.”

As someone who was never an athlete growing up, Champ says his workouts can be done by anyone, no matter their fitness level.

“The idea is that it’s not just my last name—it’s like anybody can be ‘Champ City,’” Champ says. “We can all be champs in our own way.” afm

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WELLNESS AUTHOR

Cindy Present

SOULFUL JOURNEYS n Cindy Present, a born and raised Austinite, shares her favorite soul-finding experiences while exploring Texas.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF CINDY PRESENT

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hile I was growing up, my dad worked for Lone Star Beer.

During his time with the company, he worked on the crew that grew it regionally with a virtually “unknown” singer-songwriter of that time: Willie Nelson. Small town Texas was the brewery’s strategy— sending a road show to every little dance hall, beer joint, rodeo and horseback trail ride available in Texas. Consequently, my dad could tell you, even at the age of 91, the amazing backroad routes, journeys and “must-see” locations throughout the Lone Star State.

Growing up, those destinations were mandatory; they were part of my dad’s job, and many times our family of four would load up and hit the road along with him. Already country kids with very few neighbors, these were opportunities for us to be around others and see more of Texas. My favorite destinations were those that involved a trail ride where I could bring my horse; a bike ride that would connect the small town “dots on the map” via unpaved county roads; or a river run where we’d pack up the canoe, paddles, tubes and a cooler to shoot it from crossing to crossing.

My family always knew where we were going, but we didn’t know what to expect when we got there.

That was the magic—erasing all expectations and having a “childlike spirit” to discover and see what revealed itself. My mom and dad gave us great autonomy on these trips. I was the kid that would finish a trail ride in a small Texas town, and my wanderlust spirit would send me exploring

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the backroads on my horse while they sat at the local beer joint as dad was “working”—drinking ice cold Lone Star. My horse, Tammy, and I would trot around town, even stopping at stop signs, peaking around store fronts and into side streets, while friendly shop and home owners would give us a happy wave or nod.

The days when a young girl, not yet even a teen, could sit atop her 17-hand palomino horse and roam the streets of another town by herself with no fear or intimidation are long lost in most towns in Texas. However, the seed that was planted in my soul blossomed as a spirit that longs for exploration and adventure. To this day, when I feel burned out, stressed out or tired of the “same ole, same ole,” I know it’s time for me to get out.

Now, I yearn for that same joy and rush of exploration; that freedom of mind, body and spirit to seek, probe and push my boundaries and have a child-like enthusiasm. It’s time to lace up or pack up, whether it’s just steps from my home or within a couple hours’ drive away. It’s like a medicine to me; a dose of it can bring me back up, aid what is bothering me and have a lasting effect that can buffer tough chapters of life.

Exploration can bring an amazing sense of bliss and fulfillment to our lives. Especially with the current pandemic, the tightened boundaries of our lifestyles seem to be squeezing the spirit out of some of us. What once seemed like a huge, open world for some has been limited to one’s own neighborhood, community or only those areas that daily routines mandate.

Now more than ever, our mental and emotional wellbeing needs the

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

n WELLNESS

MY FAMILY ALWAYS KNEW WHERE WE WERE GOING, BUT WE DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN WE GOT THERE. THAT WAS THE MAGIC—ERASING ALL EXPECTATIONS AND HAVING A “CHILD-LIKE SPIRIT” TO DISCOVER AND SEE WHAT REVEALED ITSELF.” positive emotions that exploration and adventure can evoke. A recent study published in Nature Neuroscience validates that novelty and experiential diversity is important to stimulate our brains and deliver that “feel good” sensation. The even better news is that it also has a lasting effect into the following days and possibly weeks!

For some, the word “exploration” exudes images of traveling the world, summiting a 14-er, living out of a backpack or only buying oneway tickets for a year. However, simplifying it to a local ambition can elicit the same mental and emotional responses. It can be journaled in minutes or miles; it’s not where or how far—it’s the mark of positivity it leaves.

With the same wide-eyed

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pursuit that I rode my horse down unknown Texas county roads, I now love to just get out on them and drive—point my headlights west and put the skyline of Austin in my rearview mirror. I can promise you my cortisol plummets and my dopamine sores. Turning right onto my favorite two-lane county road, it drops even more.

Start visiting those little dots on the map like Sisterdale, Bandera, Camp Verde and Medina. There’s something about traversing the backroads of Texas; not only does my speed limit drop, but so does my heart rate and stress levels.

Just as my dad planted a love of exploring the backroads of the Texas Hill Country in my soul, he did the same with the Texas rivers.

Bordered with timeless cypress trees and “sometime” creeks,

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their cool, babbling waters have a soothing ripple effect that runs through my veins. Their power pours into me a release of anything and everything that hinders me. It makes some life situations seem not so bad and others shine with even more opportunity. My mind clears and my heart lifts. Whether the rivers are running well or they are waiting low and steady for the next season of rain, they never disappoint and always fulfill.

The study by Nature Neuroscience confirms that human nature thrives on bathing in fresh opportunities in life, those that lend us the moment to pause, observe and absorb. Exploration does not have to come from the pocketbook or passport, but rather from within, to experience, connect and behold. afm

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WELLNESS AUTHOR

Dr. Yongxin Fan

This special series of articles are written by faculty members from AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CHINESE MEDICINE FOR STRESS RELIEF n How acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be combined with diet and exercise for successful stress relief treatment.

How Stress Affects the Body

released, causing increases in both blood pressure and inflammation while suppressing the immune system.

If our bodies continue to experience high amounts of cortisol, symptoms can evolve into anxiety, depression, fatigue, digestive issues and tension headaches.

Stress is defined as an organism’s total response to environmental demands or pressures. In a medical or biological context, stress is a physical, mental or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension.

Stresses can be either external (from the environment itself or psychological and social situations) or internal (from illness or a medical procedure).

The human body is hardwired to handle stress.

However, over time, too much stress takes a toll on the body. When we feel threatened, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, causing the heart rate to increase, the pupils to dilate, and the direction of blood to flow toward the extremities. In addition, digestion can temporarily shut down.

This is also known as the "fight or flight" response and is the reason why we may feel agitated or want to run away from our problems when stressed. Cortisol, sometimes called “the stress hormone,” is also

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Chinese Herbs for Stress

The most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal formulas for stress are xiao yao wan (also known as “Free and Easy Wanderer”), gan mai da zao tang, chai hu shu gan san, yi guan jian, yue ju wan and gui pi tang.

To find the right herbs for you, make an appointment with a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist. The practitioner will take a full medical history and do a pulse and tongue diagnosis to determine the best acupuncture plan and herbal prescription.

Exercise and Diet for Stress

Exercise should be a part of everyone’s stress management plan as it helps the body produce more endorphins—also known as the “runner’s high.” Many types of physical activity can stimulate this response, and each person must find the right type of exercise for him or herself. For some, walking is enough. For others, getting more of a workout to get their blood pumping and break a sweat is ideal.

Taiji, qigong and meditation are forms of mindbody exercise and have been shown to help induce the “relaxation response.” The relaxation response makes the heart beat slower, the muscles relax, the breathing slows and the blood pressure decreases.

As far as dietary therapy goes, most vegetables and fruits that are rich in color can help the body deal with stress. For example, in Chinese nutrition, blueberries, purple cabbage, beets, tomatoes and eggplant are believed to be stress-reducing. A diet high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and vitamins B and E is recommended as these nutrients are easily depleted by stress.

Most rich-colored fruits, apricots, asparagus, avocados, bananas, broccoli, brown rice, dried fruit, figs, salmon and green leafy vegetables are high in vitamin B. Even if you eat a healthy diet, vitamin B complex is a good supplement to consider if you suffer from chronic stress. afm

Chinese Medicine for Stress Relief

In Chinese medical theory, strong emotions like stress interrupt the body’s energy from flowing smoothly. When these strong emotions are present for long periods of time, they create a blockage in the body’s “road” system, creating an energetic “traffic jam.” Acupuncture increases the circulation of blood and oxygenates the tissues throughout the body while cycling out cortisol and releasing natural pain-killers called endorphins. Acupuncture also decreases the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and relaxes the muscles to help the body feel less stressed.

The traditional Chinese medicine approach is to focus on restoring the balance of energy in the body.

This takes form in actions such as soothing the liver qi, tonifying the liver blood and spleen qi, clearing the heat in the heart and liver, etc. A combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are generally applied to treat stress, and diet therapy and exercise are suggested as well.

Dr. Yongxin Fan has over 20 years of clinical experience in treating muscular-skeletal disorders, pain, digestive disorders and psycho-emotional disorders including stress.

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WELLNESS AUTHOR

Monica Hand

WELLNESS

FAQ

WITH JAROD CARTER PT, DPT, MTC n Local physical therapist, discusses some of the most common injuries among runners and hikers and how to prevent them.

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the two most common ones down there. Then, there are those types of pain and injury in the hip and back region, which are slightly less common but certainly happen enough to be called a “common” injury.

arod Carter found his passion for the movement and care of the human body from his early days as an athlete in high school and throughout his time as a springboard diver on the University of Texas at Austin’s swimming and diving team. After graduating from UT with a bachelor’s in kinesiology, Carter went on to the University of St. Augustine to earn his doctorate in physical therapy. He opened his own practice a little over 10 years ago and continues to serve the Austin community, ensuring that every patient receives the attention they deserve.

Carter sat down with the AFM team to talk about common injuries and preventions for runners and hikers.

All of these can come from a variety of things and be called a variety of things. With knee pain, common issues include patellar tendonitis, IT band syndrome, ligament strains and damage or tearing of the meniscus. In your hip, it’s not uncommon to aggravate the labrum—this piece of cartilage in the hip joint—and plenty of our runners end up with issues surrounding that particular tissue. Luckily, all of these common injuries are mostly treatable without surgery.

Q: What issues do you often see arise in runners?

Q: How do you treat someone with one of these ailments?

A: With running, there are quite a few very common

A: It all comes down to figuring out each individual,

injuries—from a variety of different types of knee pain to different types of heel and ankle issues, like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, which are probably

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understanding their specific puzzle. It’s very rare that any one injury or pain has developed because of one single thing. That’s why I think it’s so important for

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individuals to find practitioners that actually have the time to look at them from head to toe—practitioners that aren’t having to rush through three to five patients an hour and can therefore only have time to look at the knee. You want to have time to think, “Well, what’s going on above or below that might be contributing to the pain they’re experiencing?” So, for each individual, that puzzle can look very different.

THE TREATMENT OF THE PUZZLE PIECES INVOLVES USING A VARIETY OF TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES TO RESOLVE ANY TIGHTNESS, WEAKNESSES OR MOVEMENT DYSFUNCTIONS LIKE BAD RUNNING/WALKING FORM.”

As a licensed health care provider specializing in pain and injuries, that’s where you have to take them through a thorough evaluation. That’s when you take those pieces of the puzzle, and you plan to address each one of those, because leaving out or missing just one of those pieces can be enough to allow for that pain to become a chronic problem and the person never really being able to get back to hiking or running in the way that they want to.

The treatment of the puzzle pieces involves using a variety of tools and techniques to resolve any tightness, weaknesses or movement dysfunctions like bad running/ walking form. With running, there are specific issues

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n WELLNESS issues of the lower back, but everyone is then looking at their back when the problem is actually in the front.

This is also a common issue for cyclers. If they experience back pain but haven’t addressed their hip flexors, they need to look at that first.

In both cases, just loosening and working on those tissues of the hip flexors can in and of itself be enough to get rid of the pain. Though this may be the case, tightness isn’t the only issue, and occasionally lack of strength plays a role. If someone is consistently hiking with decent elevation changes, that should be enough to strengthen the flexors adequately. If they are hiking inconsistently, then they will want to incorporate some strengthening in between to be prepared for the challenge of a hike with large elevation changes.

Q: What are some ways one can prevent those common running issues?

A: Strengthening of specific hip muscles—having strong

when it comes to running shoewear. You have to make sure it’s a “good fit,” both literally on that person but also for that person’s running form and body type. A shoe that’s perfect for one runner might be a disaster for another, which is similar with hiking shoes and boots. So, it has to be specific to the individual from head to toe in evaluation and treatment.

muscles in the hip can help to address and resolve what I consider the most common reasons for a variety of different kinds of running-related issues. There’s a specific weakness that we see a lot in runners, and it can lead to a wide variety of injuries in the foot, in the back and in the hip.

In this video, I’ve laid out some simple techniques to show AFM readers how to self-evaluate to see if they are dealing with this specific issue. If they are, the video shows three exercises they can do to help resolve the issue or prevent it from causing pain or injury on your runs. It may not fix it all the way—but it’s a start to resolving some very common, injury-producing issues in runners. afm

Q: Are the issues for runners the same for hikers?

A: There is definitely some crossover, but with hikers,

we tend to see a higher number of foot-related issues and one type of knee issue. The knee issue is patellar tendonitis and is especially seen in hikers that are doing a lot of elevation change. If it’s the type of hike where they’re just going out for a stroll in the Greenbelt, then it’s not much of an issue. However, for hikers that are into that aggressive elevation change, they’re really loading that tendon going up and down, even more so than you get in running.

Jarod Carter PT, DPT, MTC is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the founder of Carter Physiotherapy, where active people in Austin go to quickly recover from injury so they can keep playing their sport, exercising and enjoying life. Offering specialized, hands-on manual therapy as well as online telehealth treatment options, all sessions are one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy and designed to get you maximal results as quickly as possible. Carter is also the author of two books and has helped thousands of healthcare providers around the world to create private practices offering the highest level of treatment and care. Jarod provides monthly resources and discounts specifically for Austin Fit Magazine readers here: www.CarterPT.com/AFM.

With running, we see plenty of knee pain, but it’s less common to have patellar tendonitis than it is to have, say, IT band syndrome. We do see, now and again, meniscus tear issues when hikers lose footing. Those who are out doing an easier stroll are more likely to see plantar fasciitis, or foot pain. If the hiker is doing aggressive elevation changes, back and hip pain or injury also become more common.

Q: What are some ways to avoid or alleviate that kind of issue in hikers?

A: A lot of people don’t know this, but issues like

tightness in the hip flexors will often manifest as pain or

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FITNESS AUTHOR

Caroline Betik

DISCOVERING YOUR NEW RUNNING LOOP: AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOODS

I

nterwoven throughout the city, Austin’s elaborate trail system makes it easy to escape the congestion of the city and get in touch with nature in just minutes. What is not commonly discussed however, are the countless sidewalks and streets all over Austin’s eclectic neighborhoods.

Easy to access and usually overlooked, Austin neighborhoods allow you to change up your time outside and see Austin through the eyes of a resident. Explore three of Austin’s exercise-friendly neighborhoods with these three AFM loops.

n Refresh your daily exercise routine with these three loops in Central Austin neighborhoods.

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TA RRYTOWN - Start/end at Mozart’s - AFM’s loop: 3.5 miles - Bike-, foot-, pet-friendly If you’ve visited Austin, you probably know about Mozart’s—the coffee shop with bottomless coffee, an outdoor patio overlooking the river and a holiday light show that Austinites flock to every winter. Mozart’s is a local gem, but the neighborhood surrounding it is just as dreamy.

Sitting directly next to the river, Tarrytown is a quaint neighborhood made of rolling hills and a myriad of houses depicting a range of architecture styles from American colonialism to mid-century modern. Like an outdoor museum exhibit, you can appreciate the complexity of these towering designs one after the other as you make your way through the streets.

Large trees, sidewalks and rolling hills help make this area shady, safe and challenging enough for a satisfying workout. Additionally, Scenic Drive offers a view overlooking the river—and it’s not flooded with visitors.

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n FITNESS H YDE PA RK - Start/end at Quack’s - AFM’s loop: 1.7 miles - Bike-, foot-, pet-friendly Grab yourself a pastry to-go from Quack’s, and enjoy a pleasant stroll through Hyde Park. Located about a mile north of the University of Texas campus, this historic neighborhood has been around since 1891. With wide streets and sidewalks, it is easy and pleasant to navigate by foot or bike.

As you meander the streets, look out for the signature signs you are in Hyde Park. Kept flowers along with wood-crafted bird houses and fairy gardens decorate sidewalks and front yards, resembling an arboretum.

On 40th Street, stop by to say hello to some peculiar residents such as goats and other farm animals that will remind you of the city’s quirkiness.

A little ways down, exchange a book on 42nd and Avenue F at a library box in the front yard of a fenced, quaint house. On Avenue B, stop by the historical Avenue B Grocery & Market, ranked one of the best places in Austin to grab a sandwich.

Instead of an evening at the usually crowded Zilker, play tennis or basketball at Shipe Neighborhood Park, or enjoy a nice picnic in the shade to end your time in this charming neighborhood.

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BOUL DI N CRE E K - Start/end at Moonlight Tower (W. Monroe St./S. First St.) - AFM’s loop: 2 miles - Bike-, foot-, pet-friendly Located in the middle of downtown, this cozy neighborhood will make you feel right at home as you stroll down its streets. Bouldin Creek is another neighborhood with many historic homes mixed with sleek, modern styles here and there. The diversity of the architecture reflects the diversity of the neighborhood, which is made up of a mix of new residents as well as those who have been around for generations. Take your time walking these streets, or even take advantage of the current Healthy Streets Initiative on Bouldin Creek to South 3rd street, which makes streets more pedestrianfriendly for safe and responsible exercising during COVID-19.

Venture through the line of houses in Bouldin Creek to complete your experience, or visit another one of the many locally run restaurants, cafes and shops in the area.

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FITNESS AUTHOR

Emily Effren

RUNNING WITH TRAIL ROOTS n Austin’s trail-based running group that focuses on more than just running.

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rik Stanley’s affinity for running first began in elementary school when he would visit his mother in Las Vegas and accompany her during her runs. The duo would play 90s country music and run near the mountainside.

“It was just kind of a fun thing that we did together,” Stanley recalls. This tradition sparked Stanley’s passion for running which would later guide his entire life.

“Running has just been a part of my life,” Stanley says.

“I’ve run since I was a kid; I’ve run most days in my life, and it’s just like eating—I’m gonna wake up and go for a run.”

As Stanley’s love for the sport grew, so did his talent. In the seventh grade, Stanley broke a five minute mile, and later went on to become one of the fastest high schoolers in the country going into college at the University of Texas at Austin.

Stanley says he used the sport as an outlet and it ended up helping him gain confidence while navigating the stresses of becoming an adult.

“I think for me, I thought life was gonna be easy. I was kind of smooth sailing until I hit college,” Stanley says.

“I started struggling when I started college, and after [is] when I started having panic attacks.”

Even after running at the collegiate level, Stanley continued to work in the fitness industry before wanting to split off and begin his own organization—dedicated to

SEPTEMBER 2020

the trail and to helping people, just as running had helped him.

“I realized though that if I didn’t do this, I was doing it because I was afraid of something. And I needed to overcome that,” Stanley says.

Not long after, Trail Roots was born.

If someone is expecting to join Trail Roots, get their run in, and leave, they can—but that isn’t the goal of Trail Roots.

“There’s some people that are showing up to get their kind of community connection, while getting a workout.

That’s probably like 20 percent, but the majority of the people are showing up because they have their friends

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I BELIEVE EVERYONE CAN TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR SITUATION, NO MATTER HOW HARD OR TROUBLING IT IS. THAT’S WHEN YOU SHARE THOSE THINGS—YOU CAN GET SUPPORT. AND I THINK THAT’S WHAT WE NEED.” community and sharing their stories.

“I believe everyone can take control of their situation, no matter how hard or troubling it is. That’s when you share those things—you can get support. And I think that’s what we need,” Stanley says.

Stanley recalls one of his runners who described their time on a military base, as well as another runner who defeated breast cancer and ran her fastest marathon a few months into remission.

“I was just blown away by all these people’s stories,” Stanley says.

Also a coach, Stanley says he does his best to uplift others, and those ideals are shared throughout the Trail

that they want to run with and push themselves,” Stanley says.

The Trail Roots community may be brought together by running, but that doesn’t stop them from forming lasting friendships. Stanley says the group will get brunch after their Sunday runs, have occasional, themed happy hours (currently hosted virtually), and even have virtual group workouts led by Stanley a few times throughout the week.

Stanley recognizes everyone has a unique story, and after getting to know some of the people he was constantly running with, Stanley decided to start a podcast, speaking with some of the Trail Roots

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n FITNESS Roots running community.

“When you’re running I think you just, you kind of let your guard down a little bit and you’re kind of open up and when you’re with someone on the run like you can talk about anything. And you really get to know someone within an hour or two hours of running together,” Stanley says.

As Trail Roots grew, Stanley decided to split the community into (what currently are) seven groups of about 10-15 members around the Austin area, each led with two leaders, named Kodas.

Josie Fox, a Trail Roots Koda, says she was apprehensive about initially joining a running group because she didn’t want to be around a

competitive atmosphere, as many running groups are thought to have.

Finally, Fox decided to join Trail Roots with her husband after she got burnt out of running by herself and grew more worried about running alone in the dark.

“I just needed a crew,” Fox says.

And she loved it right away.

“It’s serious about running, but extremely low-key as well. I’ve never met a more open, welcoming group of people. I think everybody comes in with different goals and different levels, and different backgrounds,

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I’VE RUN SINCE I WAS A KID; I’VE RUN MOST DAYS IN MY LIFE, AND IT’S JUST LIKE EATING—I’M GONNA WAKE UP AND GO FOR A RUN.”

W! NE careers; walks of life. And you just run together,” Fox says. “No matter what, you have this immediate common ground. I think it’s really supportive.”

Fox says a unique aspect of Trail Roots is the balance Stanley brings to the group, focusing on improvement but not making things overly competitive or serious.

“Because of that, it attracts a really interesting group of people, and really good people. I mean I think that that’s been one of the things that I’ve liked the most is just the community,” Fox says.

Sally Ng, who has been running with Trail Roots since it’s early days, says the community has shown her that running is more than just personal records and racing.

“You never know how much you miss if you’re always going fast,” Ng says.

While running around Town Lake with a friend, Ng recalls seeing a little heart wall near the blue water fountains that she had never noticed before.

“I had ran that so many times, and I never saw that there are hearts there until you slow down,” Ng says. “And I feel like it’s just a good analogy to life, you know, if you are always running fast, fast, fast and always going from one thing to another, sometimes you don’t enjoy what’s right there in front of you.”

Ng says the trail running mindset can be vastly different from the road running mindset.

“You don’t mind getting your feet wet or getting muddy and maybe stopping mid-run for a picture or stopping mid-run to do a rope swing into the greenbelt. It’s just a different kind of friendship,” Ng says. “It doesn’t matter what political affiliation, It doesn’t matter what your age or your occupation [is], it’s just having that love of nature and love of running.”

Matt Fletcher, another earlydays Trail Roots runner, says the group even offered to pay extra on their dues to keep some members in during COVID-19 struggles.

“That was really heart warming,” Fletcher says. “I think it speaks volumes about how this group works.”

Stanley, who started Trail Roots six years ago, describes the community as supportive, loving and passionate.

“I don’t want to sit and dwell on like these negative things but everybody has a story and you have to be able to share that to kind of move on from those challenges, and if you have people around you that are gonna support you and hear your story and kind of know you, then I think you go through this world a little less lonely,” Stanley says. “To me, that’s what life is about.” afm

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nulo.com/h2o AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

FITNESS AUTHOR

Monica Hand

PHOTOGRAPHY

Courtesy of Gary Guller

STANDING ON TOP OF THE WORLD n How Gary Guller led a record-breaking, cross-disabled team to Everest.

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s quarantine continues to push back, cancel and completely reshape any plans made for the year, this “new normal” can be a tricky thing to get used to. But in order to reconnect with the world during this time, it’s important to rely on one’s own memories and the stories of others.

One such story that allows both world exploration and self-discovery lies within Gary Guller and his expedition to Mount Everest in 2003.

It’s a dangerous feat, climbing Mount Everest, but it’s one that continually draws people from around the world since its first recorded summit of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953. And since the start of quarantine, climbing the height of Mount Everest from one’s home—4,506 flights of stairs—has become something of a trend.

“It had always been a dream of mine as a little kid to stand on top of the world,” Guller says.

Then, in 2001, he attempted to summit Mount Everest for the first time. Summiting the mountain, the tallest point on Earth, reaching 29,035 feet into the air, really is standing on top of the world.

“The first time I went to Everest, I didn’t make it very far. I didn’t make it to the summit,” Guller says.

“Honestly, I wasn’t as mentally prepared as I should have been.”

It’s not uncommon for an Everest expedition to have to turn back. With weather liable to change instantaneously and the altitude physically and mentally impairing climbers, the journey can be one tiptoeing between life and death.

Guller’s Journey

Having lost his left arm in 1986 in a climbing accident on Mount Orizaba when he was younger, Guller’s story is different from the rest—not just in his physical disability, but in his unrelenting nature that threw caution to the wind and embraced his own handicap.

Even having experienced every climber’s nightmare, Guller had continued to climb, hike and explore the world with a new passion for life—refusing to let his handicap or nerves get the best of him.

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IT HAD ALWAYS BEEN A DREAM OF MINE AS A LITTLE KID TO STAND ON TOP OF THE WORLD.”

Coalition of Texans with Disabilities

first crowd, too, that a quadriplegic man asked him if he would ever consider taking someone like himself— confined to a wheelchair and unable to move most of his body—on the adventures that Guller spoke of in Africa, the Himalayas and beyond.

“My first thought was, ‘Not only does this man have an incredible disability, but this guy has to be at least a little crazy,’” Guller says. “But then I realized, ‘Guller, who are you to question what this man wants to try or to achieve?’”

After the event, the two men exchanged numbers, and Guller went to Borel to discuss the possibilities of an expedition. In the end, they decided that the CTD would send Guller and a team to Everest. The goal: get the largest cross-disabled group—meaning it had members

Once Guller returned to Austin after this climb, he was broke and undoubtedly disappointed from the failed expedition. It was then that his friend, Dennis Borel of Coalition of Texans with Disabilities, asked him to speak at an event. As one of the oldest nonprofits in the state, the organization works primarily in advocacy, awareness and consulting.

“I had never spoken to a group of people in my life,” Guller says. “I was very, very nervous. I didn’t think I had anything worth saying.”

Without him knowing it, this one event sparked a career for Guller as a voice for disabled individuals and as an inspirational speaker to all. It was in that

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n FITNESS The Expedition to Base Camp

By the time 2003 began, it had been a long two years of planning and raising awareness. With the added bonus of 2003 marking the 50th anniversary since Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay had made that first Everest summit, the team got on a plane and set out to make history of their own.

The journey from Kathmandu to the Everest Base Camp typically takes about 14 days, but the CTD team built in extra days to allow everyone to move slowly and together.

“We all had very unique challenges,” Guller says. “And this allowed for a happier hike and adjusting to altitude which increased the likelihood that everyone would be able to make it to their goal.”

The team to Everest Base Camp had 28 members— eight of which had physical disabilities. Two Sherpa members also had physical challenges. One had an arm amputated and the other his leg, both resulting from snake bites in the village when they were children.

“We were constantly encouraging each other, it seemed like,” Guller says. “Even when things got real tough, we just kept each other up and kept pushing.”

When they arrived at the Everest Base Camp, 17,598 feet above sea level, Guller recalls the surrealness of that collective feeling of achievement.

“Standing on the summit was amazing, but getting to base camp was perhaps my most favorite day of my life,” Guller says. “It was very challenging, but we stuck together. We embraced our unique abilities as opposed to fearing our disabilities.”

The Climb to The Top of the World

After getting everyone successfully to the Everest Base Camp and setting a world record for the largest team of people with disabilities to do so, Guller and a team of six others said their goodbyes. The Everest Base Camp expedition team headed back to Kathmandu for their journey home. Guller and the rest of the summit team prepared for the next six weeks of making their way to the summit.

“The way it works is a bit of a yo-yo effect,” Guller says. “You climb to camp one, and then back down to rest, then you climb to camp two and then back down, and so on for six weeks to camp four. In hopes that if the weather is good by mid- to late-May, you’re in a position and acclimated to the altitude to make an attempt for the summit.”

But when Guller arrived at camp three, he realized that he couldn’t go back down and then go back through the difficult challenges he had faced on the way to camp three—specifically the challenges Lhotse Face

with both physical and/or cognitive disabilities—to the base camp of Mount Everest, and then, from there, send Guller to the top with a small climbing team.

“Then, it was two years of a whole lotta knocking on doors to get support and funding and most of it primarily through the state of Texas, the residents and companies based in Austin,” Guller says. “If it wasn’t for the community in Texas and Austin especially, I don’t think any of it would have ever come to fruition.”

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offered. Lhotse Face is notorious for the difficulty it gives climbers, and for Guller it was especially hard to maneuver. Guller says this was the only time that turning back and giving up popped into his mind.

“That whole climb was very difficult for me. I really had to think about how I climb, how I go up and down ladders, how I balance,” Guller says. “By the time I got to camp three, my whole right side was very, very tired.”

However, because of the amount of support and the people looking on from all over the world, Guller knew he couldn’t just stop now. So, the next day, Guller and his team—including four of his closest Sherpa friends— Nima Dawa Sherpa, Pem Tenji Sherpa, Da Nima Sherpa and Namgya Sherpa—made the push to camp four where they were stuck for three days due to a storm.

The danger of altitude is unavoidable on the mountain and difficult to prepare for. This is especially true for the mountain’s “Death Zone,” named for the fact that, at 26,247 feet, there is not enough oxygen for humans to breathe, and the body begins to die. Camp four lies within this zone.

Even though they were trying to conserve their oxygen tanks, they knew on the third day that they had to either abort the mission or make a summit attempt.

“When I went to unzip the tent, the wind outside just went from like 100 to zero,” Guller says. “My Sherpa friend and I looked at each other and we just said, ‘Okay, let’s go, let’s get this done.’”

They left around 7 p.m., as is typical for summit attempts, climbing throughout the night. They arrived at what’s called “The Balcony” around sunrise and watched the sun light up the world around them. By the time they reached the Hillary Step, some five or more hours later, Guller was again wearing down his energy.

The Hillary Step, no longer there, was an odd rock formation that was a difficult point for all climbers. For Guller, it again offered different challenges, as ice climbing was difficult without a left arm. Standing there with his crampons in the ice, looking down at the thousands of feet of open air below him, he froze.

“I always tell people it was my Texas Hold ‘Em moment,” Guller says. “I just knew I still had to see this through. I gave myself the permission to succeed.”

Not long after the step, he did. Down on his hands and knees, laughing, crying and

praying with his Sherpa friends, he had made it at last.

When Nima gave him the receiver to phone it in to the Everest Base Camp, Guller says he could hear almost the whole camp celebrate with him—not just his team.

“That’s when I knew that people understood, because the expedition really wasn’t about a guy with one arm standing on top of the world or a guy in a wheelchair making it to base camp,” Guller says. “It was about people coming together to achieve something that had never been achieved on this scale before, and that’s what has power.” afm

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FITNESS AUTHOR

Alora Jones

PHOTOGRAPHY

Courtesy of Christopher Howell

PRACTICING MINDFULNESS THROUGH YOGA HIKE n An experience created by Christopher Howell, Yoga Hike, is a fun, unique adventure that invokes a deeper connection to nature.

W

ater ripples slowly, leaves flow in the breeze and the view of the Texas Hill Country is breathtaking as a group of yogis completes a mindfulness exercise on the rocky terrain— welcome to Yoga Hike.

“The mission of Yoga Hike, one, is to get people connected to that source to let them know that they’re perfect, they’re whole and they’re complete,” says Christopher Howell, Yoga Hike founder.

Yoga Hike is a 2.5 to 4-hour experience set on hiking trails ranging from two to five miles round trip throughout Central Texas. Howell began this mix of

SEPTEMBER 2020

hiking and yoga in 2015 after taking his first yoga class at 51 years old and feeling what he describes as “at home” in the practice.

“I came out of class—I didn’t think anybody would want to go to hashtag-old-guy yoga,” Howell says. “So, I started inviting people that I trusted to hike with me, and then I would sneak in a little yoga to just practice teaching.”

Yoga Hike typically has a group of 12 to 25 people and increases to 30 to 35 at its full moon events. During a full moon hike last year, poet Victoria Erickson came along and read her pieces. Kristen Ude, a participant of that particular hike, described it as very peaceful.

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HOLP PHOTOGRAPHY

connect to nature.

“He started class with a mindfulness activity for us to connect to each other and connect to the space around us,” Flores says. “When we finished the mindfulness exercise, he talked about bringing energy from the outside into us, and it started to rain—it was so pretty. It was perfect timing.”

Each hike focuses on fostering that intimate connection between person and nature. Whether it’s a regular, full moon, sunrise or sunset hike, the emphasis is always on the surroundings.

“At McKinney Falls—there’s this amazing tree there,” Howell says. “We’ll stop and do a tree pose around that [and] do some hippy exercises that are fun and then climb the tree.”

Near the end of the hike, the group will typically find a swimming hole or another scenic destination where a final meditation takes place.

“Most of the hikes were near some sort of water source, so there’s nothing like meditating with your feet in the water or, after a nice hike and yoga practice,

A couple popular locations for Yoga Hike include McKinney Falls State Park, Pedernales Falls State Park and Reimers Ranch Park. It begins with a meet-andgreet followed by grounding exercises. Howell says these get the participants to open up and connect their bodies to nature. From there, they hike to the destination and begin their yoga practice, which is always gentle beginner’s yoga consisting of various asana poses.

Allison Flores, a yoga instructor from Laredo, Texas, was visiting Austin last year for a concert and came across Yoga Hike on Facebook. Flores decided to try out the hike and ended up having a very special experience that day, because the beautiful weather allowed her to

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n FITNESS jumping off into the water somewhere, if that’s available,” says Sara Roane, former Yoga Hike instructor. “Those would be my favorite experiences.”

Yoga Hike instructors, such as Roane, all started off as enthusiasts. After going on Yoga Hikes and finding it to be thoroughly enjoyable, they reached out to Howell to become a teacher.

“I started by just going to a few of the events,” Roane says. “Really, the first time that I went, I was drawn to it because I’m already a yogi and an outdoor enthusiast, so it was a really great way to just connect with some other people.”

Roane was new to Austin when she first started and found Yoga Hike to be a great way to meet people while doing what she enjoyed on the trail.

“What really kept me coming back was the community and space for curiosity that Christopher Howell really demonstrates and allows; he creates a space for that on the trail,” Roane says.

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“That was really refreshing to me. I also really connect with mindfulness practices and yoga outside. I think doing that outside brings a whole new dimension to the practice.”

One of the things that Howell noticed before he began Yoga Hike is that his yoga practice reached a deeper level whenever he practiced in an outdoor setting.

“What I’ve noticed is that, if we practice outdoors, we get fresh, organic prana,” Howell says, “instead of being indoors, where all that lifeforce has been kind of manufactured out to make walls. So, what I found is that the more connected people are to nature, then the better they treat each other and the better we treat nature.”

Roane, a yoga teacher and adventure facilitator, felt it was rewarding when she was able to offer that transformational experience on the hikes she led.

“At first, people aren’t really sure what to think, maybe are a little more reserved, and by the end, it’s like a whole new community has been formed,” Roane says.

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n FITNESS

IF YOU’RE DOING WHAT YOU REALLY LOVE, THEN IT’S EASIER TO LOVE THE WORLD AND TO LOVE OTHER PEOPLE. SO, AFTER ACTING THAT WAY FOR A WHILE, WE START TO RECOGNIZE OUR ONENESS.”

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Flores says she had fun going on the hike with Howell, because he was comfortable, relaxed and cracked jokes with the group.

“Before we knew it, we had already hiked a whole bunch without knowing that we were working so hard, because he was very entertaining,” Flores says.

Howell has not been able to go on a Yoga Hike since December, as he was back in school to help with a revamp of the company. Then, COVID-19 came soon after, prolonging his inability to take groups out.

“Once COVID lifts, we’re branching out into corporate events,” Howell says. “That really became popular just before COVID hit, so we’ll be doing private parties, bachelorette parties, bachelor parties.”

There are currently not any hikes being offered due to COVID-19, but once they resume, Yoga Hike’s website will provide a calendar of events and locations. The first Yoga Hike is only $15, and after that single class, passes are $25. However, there is a three-class pass for $60 or a six-class pass for $108, all of which can be purchased directly from the website as well.

For 30 years, Howell has been helping people find their own unique contribution to the world after discovering that corporate life was not for him. With his background in relationship courses, breathwork and massage therapy, he wants to continue making freedom available to as many people as possible on Yoga Hike adventures.

“If you’re doing what you really love, then it’s easier to love the world and to love other people,” Howell says. “So, after acting that way for a while, we start to recognize our oneness. I’m hoping that future generations will be able to make their decisions based on our oneness instead of our separateness.” afm

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FITNESS SPONSOR

My Vinyasa Practice

WORKOUT OF THE MONTH WITH MY VINYASA PRACTICE: CHAKRA BALANCE & GRATITUDE MEDITATION n Balance your Chakras and find inner peace with this mind + body yoga routine.

M

eet Shayne, one of the studio teachers for My Vinyasa Practice. To connect with Shayne, check out her IG @ shayne_themindfulyogi, or join her in the studio on Monday’s at 12pm.

SEPTEMBER 2020

ROOT CHAKRA | TRE E POSE OR SE ATE D TR EE P O S E

With the goal of harnessing the feeling of being rooted and connected to nature, ground down through all four corners of the feet. Inhale, grow tall, and transfer your weight to the left foot. As you exhale, bend the right leg bringing it to a 90 degree angle. Bring the sole of the right foot to the ankle, calf, or inner thigh. Bring your hands to heart center, connect to your breath and experiment with growing your branches or using the support of a chair or wall for added stability. Hold for 3-5 breaths. This posture can also be done on the ground either seated or lying down. Repeat on the left side.

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T H E SAC R A L P L E X U S CHAK R A | WARRI O R 2

Take a moment to connect with your creative energy and let it flow—embrace fluidity and your divine right to be. From the tadasana (Mountain Pose) step the right foot back, and pressing through the pinky edge of the right foot, bend into your left knee. Send your left shin forward and your ribs back. With all four corners of the foot engaged, stack your knee over your left ankle.

Inhale and reach through the crown of the head, exhale arms wide, left arm forward, right arm back. Imagine lifting your heart, creating a line of energy across the chest from fingertip to fingertip. Gaze over the front arm toward the fingertips or a drishti (point of concentration).

Inhale deep into the low belly and send the energy below your naval. As you exhale, enjoy the sensation of being open and stay here for 3-5 breaths. Repeat on the right side.

T HE SACRAL PLEXUS CHAKRA | HALF MOON

Standing in your power and stepping outside your comfort zone, ground down through all four corners of the feet coming into tadasana (Mountain Pose). Inhale and grow tall, then exhale and step the right leg back, coming in to warrior 2. Inhale, straighten the left leg and reach the left fingertips toward the front of your space.

Know your strength as you bend into the left leg, reach the left arm forward as you float the right leg up. Bring your heart parallel to the earth, reach the right arm high and gaze toward the floor and breathe. Using a chair, a block, or the wall as support, continue for 3-5 breaths: in through the nose, out through the nose. On an exhale, gently lower the right leg back to the mat, take a breath here, and repeat on the right side.

T H E H E A RT C H A K R A | C AMEL

Bring yourself to your knees and place your left hand on your heart—right hand over left. Close your eyes, inhale, and lower your chin to your chest. From here, notice your heartbeat. Connect with your joy, self love, and compassion. Take a moment and fill your heartspace.

On your exhale, let it radiate through your body. Tucking the toes for more stability, lift the hips and come to standing on your knees. Bring your hands to your lower back with your fingers pointing down, and breathe deeply: in through the nose, out through the nose.

Inhale and lift the gaze, open the heart and let it shine.

To make this pose more accessible, you can reach for a block for added stability. Hold this pose for 3-5 breaths.

Slowly on an inhale, gently return to center and take a moment to rest in childs pose.

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n FITNESS T HE T HROAT CHAKRA | GATE POSE

Bring yourself back to Seated Tree, right leg extended long with the sole of the left foot resting against the right thigh. Take a moment and breathe deeply, bringing your awareness to your throat with the intention of speaking your truth. Inhale, grow tall, and as you exhale, plant the left arm behind the left hip to use as support.

Inhale and sweep your right arm up, press the left shin into the earth as you lift your hips towards the sky. Gaze is up—chest, heart, and throat are lifted. Relax your jaw and let your mouth open slightly, bringing awareness to your words and intentions. Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth for 3-5 breaths. Repeat on the right side.

TH IR D E Y E C HA K R A | WARRI OR 3 ( O P T I O N T O C LO S E EY ES )

Inhale and ground down through all four corners of the feet, coming into tadasana (Mountain Pose). From here, tune in to your inner vision and intuition. Inhale, grow tall, and exhale hands through the heart center. Release the right leg behind you while bringing the toes to the earth. Inhale and plant the four corners of your left foot into the ground. Exhale and hinge at the hips, bring the heart parallel to the earth, extending the right leg long behind you. Bring your attention to the space between your brow, your third eye center and experiment with softening your gaze or closing your eyes. Trust yourself to find your balance for 3-5 breaths. Repeat on the right side.

CROWN CHAKRA | WIDE LE GGE D FORWARD FO L D

From tadasana (Mountain Pose), ground down through all four corners or your feet, inhale and grow tall. Exhale and step the right foot back, parallel to the back of your mat. Inhale arms high and exhale hands through the heart center, placing the hands on the hips. Lengthen through the crown as you fold forward and with control.

Bringing the top of your head towards the earth.

Release from the sacrum to the tip of your head, allow the back of the neck to release. Close the eyes and hold here for 3-5 breaths, experiencing the flow of energy in this gentle inversion. Bring the hands to the hips, inhale with a flat back slowly and with control back to standing.

Return to tadasana, bring your hands to heart center, press your thumbs on your sternum, resting here for 3-5 breaths.

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BENEFITS OF INFRARED SAUNAS – Deeply Heats Human Tissue

G RATITU D E M E D ITATIO N AND FINA L SAVASANA

Come into a comfortable seat or extend the body long for final savasana.

Allow yourself to arrive and welcome yourself to this moment. Tap into your senses and any sensations that arise in your body. Lengthen your spine and relax your shoulders and hips. Draw an awareness to your breath. Bringing one hand to your heart, the other to your belly and begin to cultivate a felt sense of gratitude. Feel your belly, ribs, chest and collar bone rise as you inhale and fall as you exhale. Begin to connect your breath to a moment.

As you breathe, envision a happy moment, allow this moment to cultivate, allow it to become a ball of light and energy inside of you. As you continue to envision this moment, let the light grow and expand throughout your body bringing a sense of peace and tranquility to your current state. Take a few more breaths here as you tap into that moment. Begin to think of three things you are grateful for outside of yourself and why you are grateful for those things. Continue to breathe and maintain that sense of joy and peace you developed in the beginning. If the mind begins to wander outside of your gratitude gently call it back.

Now, think of three things you are grateful for about yourself. Take a few breaths, cultivating gratitude for yourself. As you ready yourself to close out practice, choose one thing to let go that no longer serves you and send it away. Practice the idea of peacefully letting go of things that are no longer part of your journey. As you slowly return to this space, allow for new joy, gratitude, offerings and love to enter into your heart. The light, the love, and the teacher in me honors, sees, and values the light, the love, and the teacher in you. Namaste. afm

– Improves Immune System – Releases Built Up Toxins – Boosts Nitric Oxide [Dilates Blood Vessels] – Provides Relaxation + Recovery – Improves Sleep + Overall Health – Burns Calories + Promotes Faster Cell Regeneration [Anti-Aging]

INFRARED SAUNA DETOXIFICATION A WELLNESS MODALITY TRENDING FOR ITS MAGNITUDE OF BENEFITS NACKED

BY SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH.

For more ideas on chakra balancing both on and off the mat check out @MyVinyasaPractice 14 day chakra challenge beginning September 7th.

For a full list of our upcoming workshops visit us at facebook.com/myvinyasapractice.

512 -494-4 8 00

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COMMUNITY CORNER AUTHOR

Caroline Betik

COMMUNITY Corner

Barrett Smith, NSCA—CPT Strength and Conditioning coach www.cybperformance.com Location: Downtown and North Austin Specializations: Pain rehabilitation and management, Performance training, Movement integration, Strength and conditioning, Functional Neurology COVID-19 accommodations: Online private sessions Brandon Davis, B.S. Kinesiology, MAT Specialist, NSCA

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist www.getneurofit.org Location: 6401 Rialto Blvd, Austin, TX 78735 Specializations: Posture alignment, Muscular imbalance correction, Joint instability, Range of motion, Body alignment, neuromuscular work COVID-19 accommodations: Online and in person training,

AUSTIN TRAINERS ON OUR RADAR

Chad Kraus, NASM—MCPT, PES https://kraus-fit.com Location: Austin Specializations: Strength training, Weight loss, Functional movement training, Kickboxing, Sport specific training, Wellness and lifestyle coaching COVID-19 accommodations: in-person or virtual training, online/in-person wellness programs, private outdoor, socially distanced group fitness programs

n Needing some #fitspiration to get

you off the couch? We’ve rounded up a few Austin trainers who can help you shed the quarantine weight.

Chelsea Profitt, NASM—CPT

Women’s Fitness Specialist Location: Leander Specializations: Weight loss, Strength training, Women’s fitness, Healthy lifestyle coaching, Pre/Post natal coaching COVID-19 accommodations: Online personal training, Nutrition Coaching

Anthony Ferraro

Certified by USA Track & Field, American College of Sports Medicine, TRX 200 Hr Certified Yoga Teacher www.anthonyferraro.com Location: Austin Specializations: Run coaching, Strength training, Personal yoga, Buddy training, Group yoga, High school youth runners, competitive running COVID-19 accommodations: Virtual and in-person, socially distanced coaching with mask

SEPTEMBER 2020

Chris “Protein” Leach, ISSA—CPT www.chrisprotein.com Location: 5716 W US Highway 290 Service Road, 78735 Specializations: offers individualized solutions to your fitness-related goals and problems.

COVID-19 accommodations: Video call sessions, training at facilities at a limited capacity

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Diana Haggerty, AFAA, ACE Nutritional Dimension, Practical Pilates Certification www.femmepowerfitness.com/ fitnesscoaching Location: 605 Copeland Street, Austin, Texas 78704 Specializations: Personal training, nutrition planning, self-care strategies, transformative life coaching to get you in the best health.

COVID-19 accommodations: Virtual fitness classes, virtual training, virtual nutrition coaching, outdoor and indoor socially distance training at 1200 sq ft studio. Trainers from Femme Power will travel to home and outdoor.

Photo from Diana Haggerty

Jesse Tyrell Ferguson

PN—L1, CF—L1 Location: 3rd Element Fitness Specializations: Crossfit, Muscle building, Wellness, Cupping, Scraping, Nutrition services COVID-19 accommodations: In-person personal training & virtual/ online coaching

Joshua Madrid, NASM and TRX

certified trainer www.austinmobiletrainer.com Location: West Lake, South, Central Austin area Specializations: Weight loss and management, balance/coordination, posture, better overall health, muscle building, strength training, athletic conditioning and endurance COVID-19 accommodations: Not specific to coronavirus, Joshua offers come-to-you lessons as his business model.

Additionally, virtual training is now being offered for those not comfortable meeting in person yet.

Eric Champ, CPT

https://champcity.com Location: Austin Specializations: Weight loss, strength training, nutrition, general fitness, concurrent training COVID-19 accommodations: Online training, online couples training

Erik Esquivel, NASM, PES—CPT

Kelly Baptista & Ryan Rozz, ACSM Trainer, CPT https://kellyrozz.com Location: 5716 W US Hwy 290 Service Rd, Austin, TX 78735 Specializations: Weight loss, Strength training, Conditioning, Mobility, Nutrition COVID-19 accommodations: Private gym training, In-home training, Online training

Specializations: Weight loss, Body transformation, Strength training COVID-19 accommodations: Private 1-on-1 training, online coaching, semi-private training

Izzy El-Ubaydy, NCFS trainer www.izzyelubaydy.com/train-with-me Location: Austin Specializations: Body transformation, Circuit training, Weight training, Kettlebell training, COVID-19 accommodations: Online personal training and programs

Kelly Lochte, B.S. in exercise science, CPT Location: Austin and San Antonio Specializations: Speed and agility training, Strength training, Personal development COVID-19 accommodations: Facetime training, in-person training/ group training, monthly meal and workout plans

Jeremy “Roger2Fit” Smith, B.S. Health Science, CPT

Location: Austin Specializations: Weight loss, Strength and Conditioning, Muscle building, Nutrition, Cardio, HITT COVID-19 accommodations: 1-on-1 personal online training, 2Fit warriors training programs

Kim Labruzza

Jesse Ruiz, CF Level 1 Trainer and

NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Boxing Fitness Trainer, Kickboxing Instructor, Volleyball Coach https://kimlabruzza.com Location: Austin Specializations: Customized fitness training, kickboxing, boxing, youth volleyball COVID-19 accommodations: Live online personal training zoom, Individual and small group training

Strength Coach www.designedcoaching.com Location: North Loop, Austin, TX 78751 Specializations: Focuses on teaching clients to gain control of their lifestyle and to feel empowered in their personal health journey.

COVID-19 accommodations: Offering virtual coaching, remote coaching, in person coaching

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n COMMUNITY CORNER Marcel Rosenberg, CPT, Coach

Nikki Wilson, CPT/GFC

Marsha & Steven Kushnir, CPT

Nikki Zahka, Health and Fitness Coach Location: Austin Specializations: Strength training, Body transformation, Mindfulness, Nutrition, Cardio COVID-19 accommodations: 1-on-1 personal training

Megan Wessels, ACE certified personal trainer and TRX Group Suspension Trainer www.hotspothealth.net Location: Austin Specialization: Tailored to each client with focuses on weight loss, muscle tone, cardio strength, core flexibility, posture and balance all in a motivating and inspiring environment.

COVID-19 accommodations: In-person training, in-home training, virtual training

Olive Daniels, NASM—CPT,

Location: Raw Fitness 9900 S IH 35 Frontage Rd building F, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78748 Specializations: Strength training, Nutrition coaching, Toning, Weight loss COVID-19 accommodations: In studio social distance bootcamps

Instagram: @marcelr_ Location: Austin Specializations: HITT training, strength training, body toning, nutrition tips COVID-19 accommodations: 1-on-1, group training and online training

https://www.kushnirfitness.com Location: 1921 Cedar Bend Dr, Austin, TX 78758 Specializations: Bodybuilding, Competition, Body transformation, Muscle building COVID-19 accommodations: In-person training, facilities training

Nutritionist Location: Houston, TX Specializations: Competition prep, weight/fat loss, body toning/sculpting, macros and nutrition COVID-19 accommodations: 1-on-1 online personal training

Sondra Lieder, CSCS, CPT, Fitness

Consultant and Personal Trainer www.bodybysondra.com/location.html Location: Online, at-home virtual training Specialization: Fat loss, muscle gain, general fitness, marathon/triathlon training, pre/post natal, cardiac rehabilitation, injury prevention Covid-19 accommodations: currently offering online sessions

Mitchell Ward, NASM—CPT, B.S.

Kinesiology Location: 1531 N I-35 Service Rd Unit C1 Pflugerville, TX 78660 Specializations: Weight loss, selfimprovement, life transformation, competitor prep, personalized nutrition COVID-19 accommodations: Online training, reserved training spots at facility

Tara Fedorko , Camp Gladiator, CPT

Instagram: @trainer_tarafit Location: Austin Specializations: Strength and conditioning, HITT, General fitness, Weight loss, Muscle building, Core COVID-19 accommodations: in-home virtual, outdoor in-person training

Morgan Miller, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Kickboxing trainer www.morgankbx.com Location: Austin Specializations: Kickboxing, Fight-Inspired Fitness training, Self-Defense, Holistic Performance Nutrition COVID-19 accommodations: Private and group training, virtual training, travel to in-person

Veera Korjala, ACE—CPT, M.S. Kinesiology, CYT www.vekefitness.com Location: Austin Specializations: Yoga, Nutrition, HITT, Core, Holistic wellness COVID-19 accommodations: Donation based online classes, Online retreats, Online personal training, Online coaching

Nikki Elkjer, NASM—CPT

https://roguewellness.co Location: Austin Specializations: Holistic wellness, Movement and mobility, Nutrition, Strength and conditioning, Sport performance, Stability COVID-19 accommodations: Workout programs, virtual training, private training

SEPTEMBER 2020

Shanna Hein, Shein Hardcore Pilates, CPT Instagram: @sheinhc Location: North Austin Specializations: Pilates, Nutrition, Hashimotos, Holistic wellness, Strength Training COVID-19 accommodations: Virtual training, Online personal training

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Finally, Some Live Races Again!

And You Need An Adventure!

more than just trail running...

New safety plans, permits, and full on support from all needed entities and host parks are good to go!

20 Trail Runs A Year.

Here are the Next Two Near You:

Mellow Trail Run

September 11-13 at Pace Bend Park

Texas Trail Running Festival September 25-27 at Krause Springs

Register & See the Covid-19 Safety Plans @

www.tejastrails.com

VINCENT K. IP DDS 1509 S LAMAR BLVD. #675 AUSTIN, TX 78704 (512) 444-4746 INVISALIGN@SMILE360ATX.COM

FREE CONSULTATIONS FINANCING AVAILABLE

CALENDAR SEPTEMBER- N OV E M B E R 2020

Submit your event online at austinfitmagazine.com

Rides & Races *Dates and Times are subject to changes or cancellation. Check events websites for more information.

TEJAS TRAILS MELLOW RACE Spicewood, TX SEP T EM B ER 1 2

SEPTEMBER AU GUST 29 - SEPTEMB ER 7

Labor Day Dash 5K/10K

Virtual option + Georgetown, TX SEPTEM BER 5

Walk for Sickle Cell Across Texas Virtual

SEPTEM BER 5

Bramble Ramble Kountze, TX

SEPTEM BER 1 2

SEP T E M BE R 12

S E P T E M BE R 19

ZERO Run/Walk

Tour de Castroville

SEP T E M BE R 12

S E P T E M BE R 19

Freedom Run

St. Jude Walk/Run

SEP T E M BE R 12

S E P T E M BE R 2 0 - O CTO BE R 1 8

Tejas Trails Mellow Race

5.12K Run to Brunch

SEP T E M BE R 13

S E P T E M BE R 2 7

CASA Superhero Run

Texas Autism Bike Ride & Fun Run

Virtual

Castroville Regional Park

Virtual

Virtual

Spicewood, TX

Virtual

Texas Tumbleweed 100 Dumas, TX

SEPTEMBER 2020

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Virtual

Virtual

OCTOBER O C TO B E R 1 1 - 1 7

Walk to End Epilepsy Virtual

O C TO B E R 1 2 - 1 8

Livestrong Challenge Virtual

O C TO B E R 2 4

Spooky Sprint

Virtual option + Del Valle, TX O C TO B E R 3 0

Global Run for The Water Virtual

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 13 - 14

Capital to Coast Relay Race

Austin, TX - Corpus Christi, TX NOVEMBER 21

Austin Margarita Madness 5K Run Austin, TX

Due to COVID-19, some of these rides and races have limited space.

Nonprofit. Community. Rowing.

Austin’s largest non-profit community rowing club Private Lessons, adult programs as well as middle and high school rowing programs Home of Nationally ranked Regattas

74 Trinity Street

Austinrowing.org 512.472.0726

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 2020

Submit your event online at austinfitmagazine.com

Events *Dates and Times are subject to changes or cancellation. Check events websites for more information.

DAZED AND CONFUSED AT THE DRIVE-IN Mueller location SEP T EM B ER 6

S E P T E M BE R 4

Zoom with Authors

Beginning at 6pm, BookPeople will be hosting Jennifer Lynn Barnes and Ellie Marney to discuss their books, “Inheritance Games” & “None Shall Sleep”. The virtual doors will open at 5:45pm and the event is set to take place on Zoom! For more info, click here.

SEPTEMBER 2020

90

Run Happy!

SEP T EMBER 5

SEPTEMB E R 19

Austin Weird Homes Tour

Texas Farmers’ Market

Back for its seventh year, the Austin Weird Homes Tour is going completely virtual. Austinites have the opportunity to tune in from the comfort of their couch and check out some homes that #KeepAustinWeird. For just $25, tickets can be purchased online and a portion of the sales will go to Lifeworks, an Austin community dedicated to ending youth homelessness.

SEP T EMBER 6

Watch “Dazed and Confused” at the Drive-in

If you haven’t been to a drive-in in years, this is your opportunity to go again! During COVID-19, a drive-in is a safe and fun activity—plus, it’s an excuse to get out of the house. The show is set to begin at 11:35pm at the Mueller location and tickets can be purchased online.

SEP T EMBER 8

Startup Coffee Connect

If you are creative, open to big ideas and looking to hang with like-minded individuals, Startup Coffee Connect is looking for Longhorns who are wanting to work together to make their dream come true. For more info or to get registered, click here.

SEP T EMBER 15

HAAM Benefit Day Celebrating 15 years

Celebrating 15 years of HAAM providing affordable healthcare for musicians, the organization is going to host, in hopes of what will be the biggest fundraiser of the year. To get involved or become a sponsor, visit their website.

SEP T EMBER 17

Career and Job Fair

Calling the Class of 2020! If you’re struggling to land a job, check out Austin’s Career and Job Fair—now held virtually! This free event is open to all candidates and job seekers can get registered for the event online.

Itching to get out of the house?

Needing to change up your grocery shopping outing? Visit the Texas Farmers Market every Saturday from 9am to 1pm at select locations around the Austin area. Get to know local farmers and peruse the many options available! Don’t forget to wear a mask.

At Karavel Shoes, fitting you with the perfect athletic shoe is a team effort!

SEPTEMB E R 19 - 2 0

Fall Pecan Street Festival

One of Austin’s staple festivals has gone virtual! Instead of canceling the event, the Fall Pecan Street Festival will now be hosted online.

To check out what’s on the schedule for this year, click here.

SEPTEMB E R 2 0

Austin Museum Day

83

Years!

This year, Museum Day is set to have a virtual option, in addition to the regular, in-person event. Austin Museum Day will offer a variety of activities for the whole family such as craft projects, gallery talks and virtual tours! However, only a few museums will be open to the public due to the pandemic. To find out more info, visit their website.

SEPTEMB E R 2 6

Texas Trail Running Festival

This year, Tejas Trails will be hosting their running fest at Krause Springs!

The race is set to host a 5k, 10k, half marathon and marathon. To get registered or view their special safety measures, click here.

OC TOB E R 3

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban at the Drive-in!

Hosted at the Mueller location, come out and watch one of the spookiest Harry Potter films on the big screen.

Come out, put your car in park and enjoy a safe and fun movie experience! To learn more or buy tickets, visit their website here.

AND MORE KARAVELSHOES.COM Mon-Fri: 10-6, Sat: 10-6, Sun: Noon-5 CENTRAL AUSTIN 5501 Burnet Road 512-459-7603

91

ROUND ROCK 201 Univ. Oaks Blvd.

512-610-3990 AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

INTRODUCING

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