Fit & Well Birmingham May 2014

May

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free Activities for Kids The Healthiest Pizza In Town

Jennifer Berman’s

Corporate Yoga Local Beauty/ Local Gear

FREE

Þthe most challenging

golf holes in birmingham Þ Summer Fit Foods and Fat-Burning Moves Þ Mountain Brook’s Olive oil Destination

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contents

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From the Editor Birmingham Happenings Look Good / Feel Good Calendar Personal Motivation

Birmingham, al abama

MAY 2014

FEATURES fitness 14 Corporate Yoga Jennifer Berman’s passion for teaching yoga leads to helping local corporations get healthier.

16 Outside In Head to CORE Birmingham to try out the coolest new spin class in town.

18 Looking Good Birmingham Trainer Matt Crane and Dietitian Grace Perry offer advice for a slimming summer.

20 5 Reasons to Pick

Up a Golf Club

Why to add golf to your athletic mix and where to find the most challenging holes in town.

22 6 Ways To Stay Injury Free Dr. Beau Beard offers advice on how to excel in your sport.

EAT SMART 24 Bham’s Food Swoon Local Blogger, Ashley Brouwer, shares a springtime menu.

28 Healthy Addition: OlI.O in Mountain Brook Birmingham’s first specialty olive oil store.

30 Tasty and Nutricious Where you’ll find gluten-free and healthy pizza options in Birmingham.

LIVE WELL 34 Free Summertime Activities for Kids’ Choose from 12 local fabulous activities just minutes from your home.

36 Be Well, Birmingham.

An ad agency shares their work hard, play hard philosophy.

38 Travel: Amelia Island

Healthy Travel finds in Ameila Island.

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FROM THE EDITOR

M

ay is a great month in Birmingham. There are almost

two races to choose from each Saturday. It’s also Mother’s Day, Cinco De Mayo, and for some, graduation.

Summer is here!

Celebrate the opening of Athleta at the Summit on May 7th. Join in the Motherwalk 5K on May 10th. And put your shoes on for the 9th annual Birmingham Zoo Run on May 17th.

Want more? Check out our Happenings on page 6.

In this issue, I am excited to share a spring menu from Ashley Brouwer of Food Swoon as well as my favorite new store in Birmingham, OLI.O. You will learn about corporate yoga and where to find the most challenging spin classes. You’ll find out who serves the healthiest pizza in Birmingham and meet the experts that will offer workout tips for a summer-ready body. Don’t miss out on the healthy reasons to pick up a golf club. You will be amazed at how many calories you can burn carrying your clubs instead of riding in a golf cart. Check out page 21 for a list of the most challenging golf holes in town.

We also share free and healthy ideas for entertaining the kids this summer and why to put Amelia Island on your vacation list.

We will continue to showcase the best in the Magic City’s health and fitness networks, including exercise, culinary, beauty, style and

Fit& Well Publisher

TJ P o t t s

Associate Publisher Wa lker S or rell w s or rell@p mt p u b lis hing.co m Editorial Director C a t hy S t ill Mc Go win c s mc g ow in @p mt p u b lis h ing.co m Editor Alison Lewis Art Director Rebecca Reeves Online Abby Parrott a b b y @ p m t b u b l i s h i n g .c o m Contributors J e n n i f e r A l s a b r o o k -Tu r n e r Jennifer Andress Beau R. Beard Ashley Brouwer Frank Carnaggio Matt Crane Joe De Sciose M o e s i a Da v i s Rob Ingram Shelbie Landry Lauren Lippeatt Marcy Miller Rebecca Moody Christiana Roussel Candace Schepperle Marketing & Administration Marcy Miller Circulation Anita Miller Ja n e Po t t s Accounting

Carolyn H. Jones Advertising Sales A n n e Ly l e Ha r r i s a l h a r r i s @ p m t p u b l i s h i n g .c o m

wellness. Here’s to increased passions in fitness and wellness in

Brittany Maness b m a n e s s @ p m t p u b l i s h i n g .c o m

Birmingham!

A s h l e y Pe t r u s a p e t r u s @ p m t p u b l i s h i n g .c o m

Alison Lewis

Editorial and Advertising Sales Office 2204 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 120 Birmingham, AL 35209

alewis@pmtpublishing.com • facebook.com/fitandwellbirmingham Story ideas and Birmingham fitness and health happenings are always welcome. Thanks for all of your fabulous comments and responses to our publication.

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(205) 802-6363 • info@pmtpublishing.com Fit & Well is published monthly

by PMT PUBLISHING. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

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Happenings B i rm i n g h am

By Alison Lewis

Walking Tour Series: Mountain Brook Estates

Natural Beauty

When: May 3, 2014

When: May 8, 2014; 1:30pm

Where: Vulcan Park and Museum

To Register: 205.414.3950

To Register: Phone: 205.933.1409

$15 members / $20 nonmembers

General Admission: $12

Learn how to recreate a few of your favorite spa treatments. Students will assemble and stitch an herbal eye pillow, make a smoothing salt or sugar scrub, and make their own fabric freshening spray.

Vulcan Members: $10 Space is limited! Reservations and payment required in advance.

Tour participants will be notified of the

Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens

meeting location for their tour the week prior to the event.

Fun and Fit in the Forest When: May 1 and 8th, 2014; 9:30am

Vulcan Park and Museum’s Walking Tour Series offers recent and longtime residents a fun, invigorating way to experience the history and architectural beauty of Birmingham’s neighborhoods and districts.

These walking tours invite you to step into the shoes of the architects, visionaries, socialites, and entrepreneurs who sparked the magic in the Magic City.

Where: Vestavia Hills in the Forest To Register: 205.978.2158

Come for social fitness and playtime with the kids in the children’s program room.

Where: UAB National Alumni House 1301 10th Avenue South To Register: 205.934.3555 Scholarship Run 5K/10K on Friday, May 9th at 6pm.

Registration is now open for an early bird

Spirit Scamper 5K and Fun Run

fee will be $30. Online registration will

When: May 3, 2014; 7:30pm

register the day of the race for $35.

Where: Homewood High School

The Scholarship Run will start and end at the UAB National Alumni Society House on UAB’s campus and will be followed by a post-race party with food and festivities for all participants. Sign up to help raise funds for UAB student scholarships.

To Register: spiritscamper.com.

When: May 3 to 4, 17th, 2014

When: May 6, 13, 20, 27; 7:30pm

Where: Birmingham Yoga

Where: Homewood Public Library

To Register: 205.637.4228

To register: Contact Mary-Grace Wilson,

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When: May 9, 2014

fee of $25. After March 1st, the registration

Yoga Teacher Training

Whether you’re interested in deepening your own practice or you feel the call to teach, the Birmingham Yoga Teacher Training program is committed to the personal success of each individual.

This is a 200-hour yoga teacher training certification program. Within this training you will discover a strong foundation of acquiring knowledge, utilizing teaching methods, experiencing asana, and consistently applying the principles of the eight-limb path.

UAB National Alumni Society 5K/10K Scholarship Run

GBHS volunteer coordinator at

end on May 6th, but you will be able to

mawilson@gbhs.org or 205.942.1211.

Sponsored by the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Participation in the workshop is free, but reservations are requested since space is limited.

3rd Annual Girls on the Run 5K When: May 10, 2014; 8am Where: Marconi Park 2400 7th Ave South To Register: Call 205.440.7693 girlsontherunbham.org

Girls on the Run is a transformational afterschool program for 3rd-5th grade girls that empowers girls to be joyful, healthy, and

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b i rm i n g h am Ha ppe n i n g s want. In this workshop, we will consciously identify our individual strengths and harness this energy through a practice of standing postures and core strengthening. We will utilize our core awareness and personal power integrated with our open-hearted consciousness to practice a series of dynamic balancing postures to bring into harmony our self-confidence and our self-love.

Taught by Andrea Brook, an international performing artist and yoga teacher.

Barber Food Truck Rally When: May 10th, 2014; 11am to 3pm Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

confident. This 5K is not only a celebration of the Girls on the Run participants, it is also the annual fundraiser for the program.

Race proceeds provide scholarships for girls who could not otherwise participate in the program. All ages are welcome.

Motherwalk 5K and Fun Run When: May 10, 2014; 9am

Birmingham NF Walk

Admission: $25 at the gate.

Includes admisson to the museum

When: May 10, 2014; 9am

and five $3 food tickets.

Where: Railroad Park

205.699.7275 • barbermuseum.org

To Register: 205.936.9447 or ctf.org

What’s on the menu: Food truck fare from Cantina on Wheels, NOLA Ice, Melt, Off the Hook, Slice, Dreamcakes, Repicci’s Italian Ice, and Greg’s Hot Dogs.

Registration: $20 per adult / $10 per child

Register for the first ever Birmingham NF Walk! We will be walking to help end to neurofibromatosis (NF). Teams welcome!

Every registrant will receive a personal fundraising page for collecting donations.

Where: Crestline Village across from Em-

American Red Cross Babysitting Training When: May 10, 2014; 9am to 4pm

To Register: active.com

Lole Yellow Yoga Session in Homewood Park

5K Run / Walk

When: May 10, 2014; 9am

(reference offering id 02657006) or contact

Registration Fees (Team or Individual):

Where: Homewood Park

Leslie West at lwest@bham.lib.al.usor

met O Neil Library

$30 - Register by April 30th $35 - Register May 1st - May 9th $35 - Race Day Registration

This event is free to the public. Hosted by Mountain High Outfitters. mountainhighoutfitters.com

Free - Ovarian Cancer Survivors

Where: Homewood Library To Register: 800.RED.CROSS

205.332.6620.

Cost: $85 per person.

This 6-hour course teaches hands-on babysitting skills including first aid, how to feed, change diapers, and care for babies.

Fees: $30 - Register by April 30th

The Harmony of the Empowered Heart Yoga Workshop

$35 - Register May 1st - May 9th

When May 10, 2014

$35 - Race Day Registration

Where: Birmingham Yoga

Greater Humane Association Adoption Day

Free - Ovarian Cancer Survivors

To Register: 205.637.4228

When: May 10, 2014; 10am to 2pm

1 Mile Fun Run / Walk

$50 early registration by April 26th

Where: Homewood Library

Youth (12 and younger):

$60 after April 26th

Thinking about getting a pet? This is your chance! Find your next best friend.

1 Mile Fun Run / Walk Adult (13 and older)

$20 - Register online by May 9th $20 - Race Day Registration

Race benefits the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation to promote awareness about the signs of ovarian cancer

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Our 3rd Chakra houses our personal power, self-confidence, and our ability to manifest.

When we limit the use of these strengths to our ego, career, and finances, we hold ourselves back from achieving what we truly

birmingham Ăž may 2014 9

b i rm i n g h am Ha ppe n i n g s

Villager Yoga Here’s what’s happening in MAY: Mountain Brook • 205.262.2012 • villageryoga.com

Back Forty Beer Co Presents Beer on the Back Porch Music Series When: May 12-16, 2014 Where: Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve 205.833.8264

40 Days to Free with Annie Damsky and Emilie Maynor May 5 - June 16 • Mondays, 7:30 - 8:15pm (with additional classes and workshops included) • $175 Workbook, weekly meetings, unlimited class passes, and 3 workshops focused on energy balancing, stress reduction, and nutrition included.

Step onto the path of the true you. This 40-day commitment to mindfulness will guide you towards freeing yourself from attachments that create static in your everyday life. We will explore our deeply seeded samskaras (habitual mental and emotional patterns that form over time).

These patterns may be related health and nutrition, work, our personal relationships, or the expectations we place upon ourselves.

Prenatal Partner Massage and Yoga Workshop with Annie Damsky and Adrian Ward Friday, May 9, 6 - 8pm • $65 per couple

Massage techniques will target backs, hips, feet, and neck, in addition to general soothing practices that will help couples work together to relieve some of the discomforts of pregnancy. Learn yoga and breathing exercises to prepare for and to assist in relieving the sensations that arise during labor and delivery.

Bringing in the Good: Healthy Habits for Good Nutrition with Emilie Maynor Saturday, May 17, 11 - 1pm • $25

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Focus on connecting with the true you. Join Emilie Maynor for a nutritional journey. She will teach and demo a few health basics to help you “Bring in the Good” and watch the “Bad” become of thing of the past. Health is a lifestyle, not one specific food or activity.

It gradually creeps into your priorities as you make one positive change after another.

Learn how to introduce a few simple nutritional changes that will create a ripple effect towards your overall wellness.

Restore and Rest Workshop with Suzanne Graham

Relax on Ruffner Mountain’s back porch and listen to some great live music. $25 gets you dinner and three drink tokens.

What to Plant and When When: May 16, 2014; 12pm Where: Gardendale Martha Moore Library To Register: 205.631.6639 Admission: Free

Wondering what to plant in your garden this summer? Join us as we learn helpful hints for hot weather gardening from Mt. Olive nursery, Roo’s Place Garden Center.

205.285.8282.

Zoo Run

Sunday, May 18, 4:30 - 6:30pm • $25

When: May 17, 2014

This practice will combine the benefits of both Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep). Savor the deep relaxation of restorative yoga postures for the first half of the class, then move into the guided module of Yogic Nidra, a de-programming of our central nervous system to encourage complete relaxation and rest.

Where: Birmingham Zoo

Music and Movement: Yoga to Live Kirtan with Prema Hara and Jamie Driver Wednesday, May 28th, 6 - 8pm • $25

Join in this unique blend of movement and music. Jamie Driver will lead her special mix of vinyasa and yin-influenced yoga while Prema Hara bathes the room in uplifting, nurturing rhythm and chant. Nourish your power and flexibility in this practice that will encourage balance for the strategic and intuitive minds and bodies, leaving your feeling blissful and centered.

To Register: birminghamzoo.com

Run through the zoo at the 9th annual Zoo Run 5K. Don’t miss the kids’ race. The event starts at the zoo parking light and ends at the Trails of Africa. All participants receive free zoo admission for the day.

Women’s Health 5K and 1 Mile Mother-Daughter Walk When: May 17, 2014; 8am Where: Greenway Walking Trail in Homewood Lakeshore Drive To Register: active.com FEE: $20 for the 5K; $5 for the 1 mile

Celebrate the women in our lives and National Women’s Health Week with a health run and fun walk for the entire family.

Post race Zumba party, snow cones, face painting, and more.

Xterra Southeast Championship When: May 17-18th, 2014; 8am Where: Oak Mountain State Park To Register: 877.XTERRA.1

This full-distance XTERRA championship race is comprised of a 1.5km swim, 30km mountain bike, and a 10km trail run. You may race as an individual or on a relay team.

There’s also a shorter distance XTERRA Sprint race for those looking to experience XTERRA for the first time or have the same XTERRA fun on a less demanding course. The Sprint race is half the distance as the championship race at 750m for the swim, 15km mountain bike, and 5k trail run.

Old Thyme Herbal Remedies of the South When: May 31, 2014; 12:30 - 4:30pm Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens Instructor: Phyllis Light Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens $30 Member | $35 Non-Member

Explore herbal medicines used in the pioneer days. Study the conventional medicine of Europe at that time, Native American plant uses, and the folk medicines of the British Isles and Africa.

Learn remedies for common complaints. Weather permitting, a portion of the class will be held in the native plant area of the gardens for a hands-on discussion.

Bump N Grind XX When: May 31 June 1, 2014 7: 20 a.m.

Where: Oak Mountain State Park To Register: bumpngrindrace.com Early-Bird Registration: $35 race entry (guarantees shirt).

Ends May 14, 2014 at 11:59pm Pre-registration: $45 race entry (guarantees shirt).

Ends May 22, 2014 at 11:59pm Online Registration: $45 race entry (No guaranteed shirt).

Ends May 28, 2014 at 11:59pm

Compete in the largest mountain bike race in the south.

Trussville Trail Run When: Saturday, May 24, 2014; 8am Where: Trussville Sports Complex 504 Cherokee Dr, Trussville, AL To Register: actgive.com • Register before May 17 or the cost increases $10 • Day-of registration opens at 7am.

Come run one of Birmingham’s best-kept secrets. The 2nd annual TTR-Trussville Trail Run. Run this 3- to 4-mile trail run through the heart of Trussville, Alabama for a challenging (but not too difficult) fun run.

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B eaut y & Gear

Look Good: Beauty Enjoy these beauty picks as we head in to summer.

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1. Nutrient Oil from Skin Authority: $33 Spa at Ross Bridge • 205.949.3041 sparossbridge.com A concentrated blend

of nourishing, natural oils, including Avocado, Rosehip, Grapeseed, and Sunflower, this product absorbs quickly to hydrate and restore dry damaged skin, scalp, hair, and nails.

2. Pastel Brights Eye Palette by Bobbie Brown $52 Gus Mayer; The Summit

205.870.3300 • gusmayer.com

With six mix-and-match shades, this 12 birmingham Þ may 2014

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eye palette is the epitome of spring chic. This set features everything you need to take eyes from day to night including the perfect base shadow, a pretty array of metallic pastels, and a dark shadow for lining.

3. Love Conditioner by Davines $27.50 Salon Loba; Cahaba Heights • 205.271.6521

Nip frizzy hair in the bud (and simplify your morning routine) by using a specialized smoothing conditioner in the shower. This creamy concoction calms frizz and loosens tangles, making your

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whole hairstyling process a lot simpler.

4. Plucky Pistachio Shimmer by Essie: $8 Nail Envy; Mountain Brook 205.972.1400 This subtle green

has a hint of shimmer—perfect with a colorful bathing suit or white jeans.

5. Men’s Facial Cleanser from Billy Jealousy: $22

Butlers Grooming Club In Saks at the Summit; 205.298.8550 butlersgrooming.com

This facial cleanser for men thorough-

ly removes excess oil, dirt and impurities while imparting rich hydration to keep the skin supple and radiant. It’s free of SLS, colorants, parabens, and artificial fragrances, making it perfect for normal-to-dry and sensitive skin.

6. Obagi Eye Treatment Gel $156 Spa 119; Inverness 205.408.6544 This prescription strength anti-aging cream is perfect for daytime or evening. It reduces wrinkles and fine lines while replenishing collagen and elastin.

top picks for May

by Alison Lewis

Feel Good: Gear Here are useful finds for tennis, running, yoga and more.

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1. Nike Men’s Lunar Ballistec Tennis Shoe $135 Player’s Choice; Cahaba Village; 205.985.4989 • playerschoicetennis.com

Rafael Nadal’s shoe of choice features design elements that take the game to the next level. Comfortable, durable, and lightweight.

2. Peace of Mind Tank, $52, by Lululemon The

Summit; lululemon.com

Cool down after class in this loose fit, lightweight, silky-soft tank made of

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TENCEL silk jersey. It is sweat wicking and feels soft against your skin. It also has an open-back design.

3. Run Times Short by Lululemon $54 Lululemon The Summit; lululemon.com

These shorts are woven for no-bulk performance with Swift Ultra fabric that is engineered to feel light and keep you covered. These are also breathable and sweat wicking.

4. Garmin Forerunner.10 $130 Fleet Feet Cahaba

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Heights; 205.970.6620 fleetfeetbirmingham.com

This stylish GPS captures every mile tracking distance, pace, and calories.

It identifies personal records and compares your current pace with your target pace.

5. Women’s Whisper Sandals by Keen $90.00 Mountain High Outfitters; Cahaba Village • 205.970.3300 mountainhighoutfitters.com

A water-friendly sandal that’s perfect for adventures anywhere

from hidden coves to rushing rivers.

Washable polyester webbing builds a sporty upper with a quick draw elastic lacing system.

6. Soul-Full of Light Necklace by SoulKu $17 Villager Yoga Mountain Brook 205.262.2012 villageryoga.com

This handmade necklace has silver-plated hardware and a colorful briolette crystal. A card offers an inspired personal keepsake message of connection and appreciation. birmingham Þ may 2014 13

FITNESS

corporate yoga / spin cl ass / summer workouts and nutrition tips / GOlf

Corporate Yoga: Fitness for Business Jennifer Berman, Yoga Instructor and mom of three excels in Birmingham’s only Corporate Yoga business.

Text by Shelbie Landry / photos by Joe De sciose

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t’s a common problem: you have a hard time getting to the gym after a long day of work. You’re tired, stressed, and ready to be at home. But what if you had the op-

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portunity to go to a fitness class in your workplace? Jennifer Berman, owner of Corporate Yoga, offers that exact opportunity. Here are the the exciting details:

How did you come up with the concept for Corporate Yoga? I didn’t! One of the ladies who took one of my classes years ago said that she was busy and it was hard for her to get to class. She asked if I could come to their office. From there one of the girls that took my class had a friend who worked at a law office downtown and it just kind of snowballed from there. It was all referrals, and I wasn’t really trying to do anything to promote it.

I wasn’t even calling it Corporate Yoga—or anything for that matter.

I just started traveling around to different offices and then I thought, ‘You know, this is a really beneficial thing for companies,’ and I started marketing myself as Birmingham Corporate Yoga.

What does a normal corporate yoga session look like? Yoga is a workout, and it’s not easy! The classes are typically 60 minutes long. We’ll start in stillness bringing our awareness to the breath and body and from there we’ll move into sun salutations which are very active and help our body to get warm. Next, we’ll work on strength with longer holds, and we wind it down with long, deep stretching and savasana (a pose of total relaxation). I like to think of savasana as a chance to reboot the body and mind. Just like we have to reboot our phones

“It’s so easy to get off balance. We’re working, going, going, going, and sometimes you hit a wall and realize, ‘Okay. I’ve got to step back and take this time for myself.’ It’s about finding that balance.”

— Jennifer Berman and computers, our bodies need this too. Some people feeling so relaxed at the end of class they almost fall asleep. I know I’ve done my job when this happens.

How does Corporate Yoga benefit your clients? When you’re meditating and doing yoga for an hour, you come back to your desk with increased mental clarity.

You’re more focused and ready to work. Companies are really getting on board with it, especially now with the affordable health care act. There are definitely incentives in place where companies can save money by having a wellness program in place. With Corporate Yoga, employees are losing weight, they’re feeling less anxiety and depression, they’re feeling more alert and energized, and just overall feeling healthier. Yoga increases mindfulness and this mindfulness finds it’s way into all aspects of your life. You start to notice how unhealthy food affects you. You notice when you’re extra stressed, and you pay more attention to your body. This in turn helps you to take better care of yourself.

How might people go about getting a Corporate Yoga class approved for their company? They can just contact me. My website is

birminghamcorporateyoga.com. I come out and meet the person in charge and go over all the benefits of the class and the cost and then take it from there. It’s a flat rate per class no matter the number of participants. The company pays for it so it is a free wellness benefit for the employees. Sometimes I’ve done a complimentary class just to show them a little bit about what I do. If your company does not have yoga yet, be sure and let them know that you would like to have it.

Many companies are not yet aware that we have this in Birmingham and once they find out are open to looking into it.

As a mother of three, a wife and a business owner, how do you take time to maintain a healthy balanced lifestyle?

It’s a challenge. I love what I do, but I give a lot of myself to every class that I teach and I can feel drained at the end of the day. My favorite thing is to make sure I get to a yoga class and eat healthy—I juice and do smoothies. Just by eating healthy, finding quiet time for myself, getting a massage, and walking my dog, I find that I’m a better yoga teacher, a better wife, and a better mom.

about jennifer

Jennifer’s love for moving her body began at the early age of 6 when she was introduced to her first classical ballet class at The School of Fine Arts.

She continued dancing until the age of 20 and then began to lead private and group fitness classes at local gyms.

With a desire to try something new she attended her first yoga class in 2000. In 2001 Jennifer began teaching a vinyasa style yoga class and has been teaching yoga ever since. Jennifer currently teaches at Birmingham Corporate Yoga serving professional companies in the utility, financial, medical, and legal fields. She also teaches at Lifetime Fitness and the Levite Jewish Community Center. Jennifer is also an artist working in acrylic and oil mediums and loves to find inspiration in people, fashion, and landscapes.

Find Jennifer at 205.616.5080 or birminghamcorporateyoga.com

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fitness

text by rebecca moody

Real Ryder Indoor Bikes Benefits of Real Ryder: 1. These bikes will increase joint mobility (especially hips, back and knees) as the bike moves with your body’s natural pedaling motion.

2. You’ll increase core strength and stability.

2. Real Ryders will challenge your balance, full-body coordination, and proprioceptive skills.

3. You’ll recruit more muscles during leaning and steering movements to burn approximately 20 percent more calories compared to a conventional stationary bike.

4. You’ll improves endurance, speed, and agility for other sports.

5. The training helps correct muscle and joint imbalances.

Outside In:

With the addition of Real Ryder bikes, cycling enthusiasts can literally feel the curve of the road from the comfort of this Cahaba Heights fitness studio.

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t’s not your standard cycling class. Round a curve and lean to the left. Stand and pump as you ascend a hill. Sit back and imagine the landscape as you race around scenic country roads. Twist and balance as you change directions.

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Pull back and relax as you straighten your bike. Just picture mountain biking—inside—but with pulsing, energizing music. Some people may assume that it’s too difficult or only for young people.

But that’s definitely not the case.

(The instructors are often upwards of 50 years old!) You control your bike, therefore you control your fun. You can’t help but smile when you first get on a Real Ryder— especially if you haven’t ridden a bike for a while. It’s fun because the bike banks from side to side in order to provide a true-to-the-road experience. Oh—did we mention that Real Ryders burn up to 20 percent more calories per spinning session than a conventional stationary bike? Gotta love that!

The spacious fitness studio, located in Cahaba Heights, is owned by Cindi Glenn and Barbara Esdale. Both are veteran trainers

More CORE Classes • For ripped arms, improved endurance, and general fitness, try boot camp.

• For a toned midsection and improved flexibility, sign up for Pilates.

• If you want strong legs, sign up for circuit training.

“But if you want all of this plus a heart-pumping cardio workout, then you need to try our Real Ryder cycles immediately!” — ­­ Barbara Esdale with a combined 57 years in the fitness industry. Upon opening their studio in March 2012, Cindi and Barbara determined Real Ryder cycles were the best, safest, most efficient cycling equipment out there, and they stocked their studio with the first (and currently only) Real Ryders in Birmingham.

But that’s just one of many things that sets their studio apart from others. They call it CORE for a reason. The women strongly believe that strengthening the core of your body is key to overall fitness, so they offer a number of ways to attain that goal: cycling, Pilates, yoga, cross fit training, personal training, and boot camp.

The classes can be intense for advanced students or personalized for beginners. The Pilates reformer equipment is particularly effective

for gentle, effective stretching and strengthening for beginners and for those nursing injuries. Barbara says, “It’s also fantastic for elite athletes who need to strengthen and stretch not only the muscles that they overuse but also those small supporting muscles that do not get trained.” Cindi adds, “Many pro athletes—MLB, NBA and football teams—incorporate reformer training into their workouts. And we occasionally train high school football players as well.”

They have a number of reformers so that Cindi, Barbara and instructor Lauren can teach groups or individuals. They also use jump boards, fitness balls, weights and the latest pieces of fitness equipment, both for variety and to stay on top of the game.

Pilates vs. Yoga

Pilates is a strength workout that focuses on the core—with or without equipment—and uses a flow of motion principle. Pilates is a non-impact system that emphasizes alignment while incorporating the mind to control the body.

Quality of each exercise is much more important than quantity as it strengthens, lengthens and increases flexibility. Yoga, which means “yoke” or “union,” is a holistic practice that is rooted in ancient Indian culture. It focuses on breathing to control the mind. Yoga uses postures to unite the mind, body and spirit through movement, meditation and breathing.

CORE Birmingham Cahaba Heights • 205.969.8989 • corebham.com birmingham Þ may 2014 17

fitness

By Matt Crane

/ Photos by Frank Carnaggio and Moesia Davis

Looking Good Birmingham! Fit Foods and Fat Burning Moves As summer approaches and temperatures rise, we all want to be fit, healthy, and more comfortable wearing fewer clothes. Here is a list of healthy, fat-burning foods paired with some great exercises to ignite the metabolic fire and get you moving this summer and beyond. Trainer, Matt Crane introduces dietician Grace Perry.

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race Perry, Registered and Licensed Dietitian, shares her favorite “Top 10” fat burning foods that you can easily incorporate into your daily nutrition plan.

1. Green Tea contains catechins, a phytochemical that can positively affect metabolism and promote weight loss. It will satisfy your daily fluid intake and help burn calories.

2. Eggs will give you high quality protein and other vital nutrients.

Your body can burn more calories when digesting eggs than it can after a carb-heavy breakfast. Eating eggs in the morning will curb your hunger longer than other foods.

High cholesterol? Choose egg whites, which are cholesterol free.

3. Asparagus is a diuretic that helps rid excess water deposits from the body. It contains the asparagine and is an alkaloid, which can aid in the breakdown of fat cells.

Grace Perry, RD, LD: gracefperry@gmail.com

18 birmingham Þ may 2014

4. Almonds are high in protein, fiber, and heart healthy fats. These can increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin, aiding in weight loss.

They also provide calcium, which aids in bone building.

5. Skim Milk provides plenty of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Skim milk takes longer to leave the stomach and can help you feel full. It will also help preserve and build muscle mass, essential for maintaining a good metabolism.

6. Fish is one of the best sources of protein and healthy fats. Studies show it is more satisfying than poultry and beef. Most fish is low in fat and contains the healthy form of the same, omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids can help protect against heart disease and other chronic conditions. Salmon, tuna, mackerel, and herring are goods ones to consume.

7. Whole grains Research suggests that people who choose whole

grains over refined grains have less belly fat. Whole grains provide a larger assortment of plant nutrients and your body burns twice as many calories breaking down whole grains. Whole grains are found in breads, cereals, and pastas.

8. Lean meats are high in protein.

Protein has a high thermogenic effect, meaning you burn about 30% of the calories of the food contains during digestion.

9. Hot peppers Chili peppers get their kick from the compound, capsaicin, which makes your body shed additional calories. The compound will help curb your appetite and slightly speed up your metabolism and can be consumed raw, cooked, or dried.

10. Greek Yogurt Be satisfied longer and keep a slim profile with Greek yogurt. It has twice as much as other yogurts and takes longer to leave the stomach, keeping you satisfied longer.

4. Push Ups These may not seem like much of a cardiovascular exercise, but no plan is complete without adding exercises meant to build a lean, tone, and fit body. TIP: You can use modified pushups or you can make them more challenging by using varying hand placements and/or equipment (bosu balls, medicine balls, etc).

5. Ice Skaters: We don’t move in one plane of motion in everyday life, so why do exercises that only target the sagittal plane (flexion and extension)? TIP: Start slow simply shifting from side to side and touching the opposite toe with your opposing hand. As you get comfortable, add balance by lifting your opposing foot.

Matt trains his clients out of ICON Performance in Cahaba Heights and can be reached via email at matt@lifefitnessbham.com.

N

ow that you have some great ideas for fit foods, here are 5 great fat burning moves you can do in the gym or in the comfort of your own home:

Icon Performance Cahaba Heights; 205.970.2348 iconperformance.com

1. Burpees One of my staples in my client’s plans and for good reason. It’s an entire body workout, blasting your core, upper body, and legs while raising your heart rate to help burn the unwanted fat. TIP: Add in a pushup and dumbbell rows to transform these into man (or woman) makers.

2. Air Squats Everyone loves squats, right? Probably not, but this foundational exercise should be included in everyone’s program. TIP: You can also add some explosiveness to these (be sure you have a solid foundation and no knee issues) by turning these into squat jumps. Take a deep squat, explode as high as you can, absorb the impact as you come back down, recoil, and repeat.

3. Mountain Climbers Simple and easy to do, these metabolic blasters will get your engine going! Get moving and pump those legs for one minute.

birmingham Þ may 2014 19

fitness

text by Candace Schepperle

5 Reasons to Pick up a Golf Club Find out how golf can actually be healthy from Golf Expert, Candace Schepperle. Here are five good reasons to start swinging.

G

olf gets a bad rap for being the lazy man’s sport. This is simply not true. Any time you turn on the TV to watch professional golf, you see incredible, fit athletes.

Golf incorporates cardiovascular exercise, strength training, balance and mental concentration. It’s a health boost inside and out, which can be enjoyed no matter your age or whether you’re male or female.

1

It’s an awesome workout.

The golf swing incorporates every muscle in the body to make a solid strike at the ball. Although it may not be as intense as running a marathon, the combination of walking up and down hills, carrying clubs and swinging during the round is a good blood-pumping workout. During a typical round of golf, players walk anywhere between four and seven miles, burning close to 1,200 calories

during a four-hour round. Not too shabby! Another bonus: the use of balance to swing the club. Any time you have to stabilize your body, you use core muscles in your abs, lower back and glutes. Being able to strengthen these muscles means better posture and a stronger core.

2

Golf is a great stress reliever. Your body produces stress-relieving hormones called endorphins when playing golf or working out. This game demands your utmost attention to develop a game plan on the course.

Concentrating on shot after shot gives your mind and body the vacation it needs to relax and recharge. A recent study of 500,000 golfers in Sweden concluded the average life expectancy increased by five years. This longer lifespan may be a clear result of a happier, less stressful life lived by avid golfers.

Candace Schepperle has been playing golf since she was two years old. She used the game to earn a scholarship to Auburn University, where she earned a degree in Business Administration.

Candace turned pro in 2010 and has traveled the world playing on the LPGA, European, Canadian and LPGA Symetra tours. Today, she is also a certified health coach specializing in helping clients find balance in their lives through stress management and by using an individualized holistic nutrition approach.

To contact Candace, call 205.588.9975 or visit candanceschepperle.com.

3

You’ll feel better. There’s a good reason our mothers were always pushing us to play outside.

It really is good for us. We need Vitamin D to help our bodies absorb calcium for vital bodily functions and to support strong bones. This essential vitamin also

Walk or Ride? The Calorie Difference.

By Alison Lewis

The number of calories burned depends on body weight, height, workout intensity and fitness level. The average golf course takes about four hours to complete, while a par-3 course with 18 holes will take approximately two hours. The average golfer will walk about five miles while playing an 18-hole course. The average golfer will burn about 1,124 calories during a round of 18 holes. Golfing on a course while carrying golf clubs burns approximately 387 calories. Golfing while pulling clubs in a pushcart burns about 352 calories. A golfer can ride in a golf cart as opposed to walking the course. This obviously cuts down on exercise and total caloric burn. Typically, a golfer riding in a cart will burn 246 calories per hour. That is 125 calories per hour less than a golfer walking the course and carrying or pulling his or her own bag.

20 birmingham Þ may 2014

prevents depression, osteoporosis, heart disease and lowers blood pressure. Getting outside also increases energy levels, produces feelings of satisfaction and vitality, relieves tension or anger, and promotes a better night’s sleep.

m ost c h a l l e n g i n g G o l f H o l es

Try your swing!

4

Golf is a fun family activity. A family who plays together, stays together. Finding an activity the whole family can enjoy may seem like a dream that’s out of reach.

However, golf allows parents and kids to get outside, have fun and truly enjoy each other’s company.

Teaching golf to your kids at an early age will help them learn the importance of honesty, integrity, patience and respect. What is learned on the course will directly affect their behavior off the course as well.

5

Use golf to propel your career.

Even if golf isn’t your favorite pastime, you can use the sport to pick up career opportunities.

Four hours on the golf course is a great way to build rapport with colleagues—and your boss. On the course, CEOs observe how prospects and employees handle themselves in stressful and demanding situations.

It will expose your true character, test your honesty, and humble even the best athletes. Any time you can spend with your boss in an outdoor environment can ultimately promote your career, so take advantage of it.

Farm links at Pursell Farms #12 par 4 It takes a long drive to cut off some yardage from this 440 plus yard hole. Advice: If you chose not to challenge the bunker on the left, playing down the center of the fairway allows for a mid-iron second shot to a large and undulating green.

Farm Links Sylacauga • 205.403.4653

Timberline #18 par 4 This hole lays gently downhill with a slight dogleg left.

Advice: Playing out to the right but missing the bunker on the right allows for a open second shot to a large green protected by water front right and two bunkers. Timberline • Calera 205.668.7888 • timberlinegc.com

Limestone Springs #6 par 4 This dogleg left 400-yard hole provides a challenge off the tee. Advice: The bunker at the corner must be avoided but staying as close as possible allows for a shorter second shot into the well-protected green. Limestone Springs Oneonta • 205.274.4653 limestonesprings.com

Shoal Creek #12 par 4 This hole plays 425 yards from a slightly elevated tee.

Advice: Avoiding the bunker on the left off the tee leaves an uphill second shot to a narrow and long green protected by a deep bunker on the left of the green.

Shoal Creek • 205.991.9001 • shoalcreekclub.com

Greystone Legacy #9 par 4 This 440yard hole is a slight dogleg right where favoring the left center of the fairway off the tee is paramount. This will leave a long iron second shot to a large green.

Par on this hole is an excellent score.

Greystone Country Club 205.980.5200 • greystonecc.com

Robert Trent Jones Ross Bridge #13 par 5 This 600-yard plus hole plays shorter than the yardage because of the downhill slope. The toughness begins with the layup shot, avoiding the bunker 150 yards out on the left and making sure you are accurate with your shot into the green. Ross Bridge • 205.916.7677 • rtjgolf.com/rossbridge

Get the Card Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail Card $39.95 rtjgolf.com

Receive discounts on green fees and merchandise at all Robert Trent Golf Trail courses. With the new Trail Card loyalty program play 6 times and get the 7th time free. This card is available for Alabama residents and those living within 100 miles of an RTJ Golf Trail site. birmingham Þ may 2014 21

fitness

text by Beau R. Beard, DC, MS

6 Ways to Excel in Your Sport, While Staying Injury Free Chiropractor Dr. Beau Beard shares tips for reaching your full athletic potentail—injury free.

1

Make a proper warm-up a priority. Pre-activity warm-up is crucial to injury prevention and optimum performance. A great warm-up should be no longer than 8-10 minutes and should get the heart rate up while taking the body through an array of dynamic or active movements.

2

Train your weaknesses, instead of building upon your strengths. Many athletes spend more time doing what they are already good at instead of shoring up areas where they may be weak or lack skill. Pay attention to the weaker side of your body (we all have one) when training, and most importantly, cross train. Diversify your choice of exercises.

3

Schedule recovery days.

When we go 100 miles an hour all the time, our body never has a chance to repair and improve.

We need dedicated recovery time to make the necessary leaps and bounds in our training.

4

Be your own masseuse.

Everyone loves a good massage, but it isn’t realistic for most of us to get one as often as we need. Educate yourself on how to properly use foam rollers, massage sticks, and other soft tissue tools.

Self-massage work is crucial for relief from muscle soreness and pain, as well as aiding your muscles and connective tissue to properly rehydrate.

5

Use food as fuel, not as a reward. Too often, athletes believe that since they train hard that they have a free pass to eat poorly. While you may get away with it for some time, it will eventually take its toll. Choose a diet full of nutrient dense foods, lean proteins, and plenty of water.

6

Sleep like a baby. The recommended 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night is a crucial part of any training regiment. Just as important as the quantity of sleep, is the quality of sleep. Make sure your bedroom is completely dark, don’t eat heavy meals close to bedtime, and leave the phones and computers out of the bedroom.

Dr. Beau Beard and fiancé Dr. Sloan Burdick are chiropractors and co-owners of The FARM: Functional Athletic Rehabilitation and Medicine, LLC. Beard attended Logan University of St. Louis where he obtained his doctorate of chiropractic as well as his masters of sports science and rehabilitation.

Dr. Beard works with athletes of all levels, helping them to reach their true potential and remain injury free through a unique blend of chiropractic, biomechanical analysis, and sports injury rehabilitation. In his spare time Dr. Beard maintains a full schedule of trail running, teaching, and playing golf.

“Recovery days should not be spent sedentary.

Instead they should be spent doing light activity that varies from your typical routine.”

The Farm Rehab Medicine • The Narrows • 205.419.1595 • chirofarm.com 22 birmingham Þ may 2014

—Dr. Beau Beard

birmingham Ăž may 2014 23

eat smart

TeSUPER FOODS + SUPER RECIPES

Birmingham’s Food Swoon

››››

Ashley’s Spring Menu Celery Salad with Walnuts and Parmesan Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Red Pepper Cheddar-Jalapeño Sour Cream Biscuits Crispy Pan Fried Fish

Celery Salad with Walnuts and Parmesan

Adapted from Melissa Clark’s “Cook This Now” 1 cup walnuts 8 large celery stalks, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon salt ½ cup shaved Parmesan cheese Black pepper to taste 1. Preheat oven to 350F.

J

ust by reading though the blog, Food Swoon, it’s difficult to tell that Ashley Brouwer is not a professional chef. Self-taught recipe developer, cook, and food photographer, Ashley is a contract grant writer for nonprofit organizations. In a former life, she worked as a sports journalist, writing for newspapers and covering three Olympic games for NBC. Today, Ashley resides in Birmingham with her husband and three young children.

In her spare time, she blogs about her kitchen adventures. Enjoy some of her springtime favorite recipes:

24 birmingham Þ may 2014

2. Spread the walnuts on a lightly greased baking pan and roast for 7 to 10 minutes until golden. Let cool and coarsely chop.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil and salt. In a salad bowl, mix together the walnuts, celery and Parmesan.

Stir in the vinegar mixture.

Season with black pepper, and serve. Serves 4.

Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Red Pepper 1½ pounds broccoli, cut into florets 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 3 large cloves of garlic, finely diced Dried crushed red pepper

1. Preheat oven to 450F.

2. Toss the broccoli with two tablespoons of oil and spread evenly on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes. While broccoli is baking, combine garlic, and remaining oil in a small bowl.

Add red pepper flakes. Set aside.

3. Remove from oven and drizzle garlic mixture over broccoli, stirring well to combine.

Return to the oven and cook 6 to 8 minutes more, tossing occasionally. Serve immediately.

Serves 4 to 6.

Cheddar-Jalapeño Sour Cream Biscuits Adapted from Gourmet

These biscuits don’t rise as much as their fluffier morning counter-

parts, but we don’t hold that against them. If you want a taller biscuit, my friend Amanda swears by placing the biscuits so close together on the pan that they have no place to go but up.

Makes approximately 1 dozen (2 inch) biscuits.

1 tablespoon oil 2 jalapeño peppers, diced 1½ cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup light sour cream Milk, as needed 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. Heat the oil in a skillet. Add the jalapeños and cook until soft, approximately 5 minutes.

3. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Using a pastry blender or a fork, cut the butter pieces into the flour mixture until well combined. Stir in the cheddar and jalapeños. Add the sour cream and stir until the mixture forms a sticky dough. If needed, add milk, one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. (This part is messy. The dough will cling to the spoon, and you’ll want to keep pushing it off the spoon and back into the bowl. Hang in there. It will come together.) Pat the mixture out on a well-floured surface to ½-inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter to cut out the biscuits. birmingham Þ may 2014 25

eat smart

about ashley How long have you been in blogging? Starting a blog of some sort had been on my “life list” for several years. In 2011, I finally took the plunge and started a food blog to document and share my favorite recipes.

What’s your favorite restaurant in Birmingham? Highlands Bar & Grill is my favorite spot for a fancy date night, but I also love a casual dinner of takeout wings from Saw’s Soul Kitchen.

What’s your favorite local cookbook?

Frank Stitt’s Southern Table.

4. Transfer the biscuits to parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 15 to 17 minutes or until golden. *At this point, you can transfer the formed, uncooked biscuits to the freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Just add an additional minute or two to the baking time.

Crispy Pan Fried Fish I prefer my fish lightly seasoned and with a lot of lemon, although I’ll occasionally dust the fillets with Cajun seasoning before pan-frying.

With this method, I also prefer cooking the fish skin-side up first because I’ve found the crispiest outer crust forms during the initial stage of frying. (and why waste that crispy goodness on the skin-side).

26 birmingham Þ may 2014

1½ pounds flounder or red snapper 1 teaspoon salt ¾ teaspoon freshly ground pepper ¼ cup canola oil, divided 1 teaspoon white pepper Lemon wedges

1. Season the fish on both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. (I use castiron) on high 4 minutes. Add fish, skin side up and cook for 6 minutes. With a spatula, gently turn the fish over and, if the pan looks dry, add remaining oil. Turn the heat down to medium-high and cook for an additional 2 to 4 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve with lemon wedges Serves 4.

Where is your favorite place in town to take your kids (can be anywhere) not food related?

My kids love our local parks: Crestwood Park and Triangle Park.

Where is the most underrated restaurant in Birmingham? I think the Veranda on Highland is a hot ticket right now. Steva Casey is one of the best bartenders in town and Executive Chef, Jeffrey Hansel, was nominated as a regional finalist for Food & Wine Magazine’s The People’s Best New Chef 2014.

What is your favorite “in a hurry” or “last minute dinner” ideas? Breakfast for dinner! Bacon, eggs and biscuits.

What is one kitchen tool everyone should have in their kitchen?

A food processor. Even a small one— I owned a teeny, tiny $30 model for years. It will accomplish what no hand tool can in a short amount of time.

birmingham Ăž may 2014 27

E at S m a r t

Text and photos by Alison Lewis

Healthy Addition to Birmingham: OLI.O Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Brownies

M

eet Hutton Fant, proprietor of OLI.O, an oil shop and healthy experience in Birmingham’s Mountain Brook Village. “I want people to enjoy the experience and engage with the product,” says Hutton. “You can walk around and taste all 65 balsamics if you want—I am not going to stop you! (Some people have come close.) I am excited about trying to break the barrier of just drizzling olive oil. I want people to learn to cook with it, bake with it, sauté with it, add it to smoothies, and use it as the base for salad dressings. The balsamics and vinegars are so flavorful, just grab some lettuce or spinach, and that’s all you need.”

Hutton purchases her olive oils from an Italian family-run California company. Most of her products are from the early harvest crush because, at that point, it is the most nutrient dense. “We value the integrity of our product,” says Hutton, “from the way it is grown to the way it is crushed to the final product.” Enjoy.

health benefits

1 box of brownie mix of your choice 1 /3 cup Blood orange olive oil

In addition to boosting the immune system, olive oil has been found to be effective in fighting disease.

Follow directions on brownies mix except replace the vegetable oil with our Blood Orange olive oil.

Prepare as directed.

Cancer: The phytonutrient in olive oil, oleocanthal, mimics the affect of ibuprofen in reducing inflammation, which can decrease the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence.

Spicy Pita Chips 5 pita rounds ¼ cup Garlic Olive Oil 2 teaspoons sea salt 2 teaspoons cumin 1 /8 teaspoon chili powder.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Slice pita in 6 triangles. Brush with oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. In a small bowl, combine seasonings and sprinkle over chips. Bake 5 minutes more or until golden brown and crispy.

Heart Disease: Olive oil helps lower levels of blood circulation.

Blood pressure: Olive oil can help decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Diabetes: Olive oil can help lower “bad” low-density lipoproteins, which can help control blood sugar.

Osteoporosis: A high consumption of olive oil appears to improve bone mineralization and calcification. It helps calcium absorption as well.

Tasty Treats Cranberry Pear White Balsamic Vinegar It’s clean and crisp with an amazingly fruity complex. Perfect on any salad.

Blackberry Ginger Balsamic This vinegar is wonderfully sweet and pleasingly tart.

Natural Almond Butter This all-natural almond butter is the best you’ll find. It’s a savory snack that is high in protein with no added sugars.

Pasta Mamas Tomato Basil Linguine Use this fresh tasting pasta with seafood, meat, vegetables, or just a simple tomato or Alfredo sauce.

Sweet Basil & Cherry Blossom chocolate bar by Ethereal This handcrafted dark chocolate is filled with a one of a kind sweet, bright and creamy sweet basil & cherry blossom center from naturally infused olive oil and vinegar.

Oli.O, 2411 Montevallo Road; 205.802.5756 • oliooilsandbalsamics.com 28 birmingham Þ may 2014

birmingham Ăž may 2014 29

E at S m a r t

text by Christiana Roussel /

Photos by Rebecca reeves and Alison Lewis

Tasty & Nutritious ‘Healthy’ and ‘pizza’ are not two words one usually puts together. Your first pizza was probably the kind you grabbed late-night in college: anything loaded with meat and cheese and costing less than $8. Sure, it tasted great at the time but more than likely, you felt dietary and culinary regret shortly after your third slice.

T

imes have changed in more ways than just what you think is fun on Friday nights. Pizza has evolved too, and there are so many ways you can get your slice on, and still look yourself in the mirror the next day. Check out five local finds for healthier options:

1

California Pizza Kitchen No surprise that these guys have found a way to make a

30 birmingham Þ may 2014

gluten-free pizza, delicious.

Prepared following guidelines established by the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) CPK offers four gluten-free pizzas: The Original BBQ Chicken, Pepperoni, Mushroom Pepperoni Sausage, and the classic Margherita.

The Summit • 205.298.7931 • cpk.com Riverchase Galleria • 205.444.0777

2

Chez Lulu Located in English Village, Chez Lulu is a bakery at heart (sharing a kitchen with sister restaurant, Continental Bakery) so fantastic crust is the base of any pizza they offer.

Diners can choose a traditional crust or one made with Good People Spent Grain, which imparts a decidedly nutty flavor. Request a seat outside, order a glass of red wine and order the Garden pizza, topped with the best seasonal produce. Close your eyes and you might just swear you’re somewhere in the South of France.

English Village • 205.870.7011 chezlulu.us

3

Post Office Pies The latest restaurant to join the hipsterdining scene in Avondale, Post Office Pies (POP) is brought to you by the same guys behind

Avondale Brewery and Saw’s Soul Kitchen. Go for the Margherita pizza, topped with really fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, but be sure to start with the Brussels sprout and kale salad.

Pizza On Your Own

Southside 205.599.9900 • facebook. com/postofficepies

4

Seasons 52 This Summit restaurant promises that nothing on the menu will have more than 475 calories and many have way less.

Their flatbread offerings are simple and elegant but very satisfying.

The crust is thin but substantial enough to handle seasonal toppings like fresh arugula and spinach, goat cheese and roasted peppers. Even the steak and blue cheese flatbread manages to stay on the lighter side.

If you’d rather make the pizza yourself, here are some tips to make it healthier AND delicious: before topping your crust. Sautéing or grilling items like zucchini and tomatoes reduces the water content, resulting in a crispier crust. Add more delicate toppings—like arugula or fresh herbs— after the pizza has cooked.

Summit •205.968.5152 seasons52.com

5

Basil Gourmet Pizza & Bar This Crestline Park neighborhood hot spot offers both pizzas and flatbreads and there are plenty seasonal favorites to choose from. If the Chicken Pesto or Red, White & Blue choices aren’t enough, make your own and pile on the vegetables and lean meats. Just make sure you skip the diet-busting Pizooki, a deepdish cookie pizza, served with a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate and caramel.

Crestline Park • 205.224.4465 facebook.com/basilgourmet

Invest in a pizza wheel and a pizza stone. A super-hot surface will

Pick up premade dough at Whole Foods Market. The pizza station

staffers are happy to pack fresh dough to go or you can find gluten-free options in the frozen section.

Try some unconventional toppings:

shaved Brussels sprouts and sliced prosciutto, matchstick-sized green apple slices and fresh mint, roasted poblano peppers and queso fresco. Think outside the (pizza) box!

Load on the veggies, but with a

produce restaurant-quality pizza crust.

Birmingham Bake & Cook sells a variety of stones (toaster sized to outdoor grill-safe) that will make you a pizza pro.

Preparing your pie on a flat wooden pizza peel, topped with a little cornmeal will ensure your creations slide in and out of the oven with ease. Birmingham Bake and Cook also sells these too, along with fancy cutters, gourmet olive oils, sauces, and a gluten-free pizza mix inspired by James Beard-award winning chef Thomas Keller called Cup-4-Cup.

caveat: cook as many as you can

Birmingham Bake & Cook • Inverness • 205.980.3661 bakeandcookco.com birmingham Þ may 2014 31

rec i pe c ar ds Recipe and photo by Alison Lewis

Strawberry Shake While strawberries are at their peak, try this easy Strawberry Milkshake recipe with only 3 ingredients. Strawberries protect your heart, increase HDL (good) cholesterol, lower your blood pressure, and even can help protect against cancer. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and particularly high levels of antioxidants known as polyphenols, strawberries are a sodium-free, fat-free, cholesterol-free, low-calorie food. They are among the top 20 fruits with high antioxidants and are a good source of manganese and potassium. Just one serving (8 strawberries) provides more vitamin C than an orange. Convinced already? Enjoy a great shake that is healthy, refreshing, and perfect for a light summer dessert.

Strawberry Milkshake Prep: 10 minutes • Yield: 2 servings 6 cups strawberry frozen yogurt or ice cream 1 /3 to ½ cup skim or almond milk 1 (16 ounce) container fresh strawberries In a blender, combine all ingredients until smooth.

Pour into a chilled glass and garnish with a strawberry.

rec i pe c ar ds Recipe and photo by Alison Lewis

Best Salsa Ever

Instead of buying jarred salsa, you can easily make your own with this recipe for Best Salsa Ever. In only 20 minutes, you’ll have amazing fresh salsa. This is perfect to make for summer entertaining or for weeknights to jazz up your kids’ tacos and quesadillas. Tomatoes are one of the most healthy foods, high in antioxidants, support bone health, have anticancer benefits and more. One serving of ripe, red tomatoes is a good source of Vitamins A, C, K, folate and potassium. Tomatoes are low in sodium, saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories. Tomatoes also provide fiber, thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus and copper.

Enjoy and stay healthy!

Easy Homemade Salsa

Prep: 20 minutes • Yield: 4 cups 2 to 3 fresh tomatoes, diced 1 cup red onion, diced 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 4 teaspoons chopped fresh jalapeño pepper (seeds removed) Salt and pepper to taste Chopped red and green bell pepper (optional)

32 birmingham Þ may 2014

Stir the tomatoes and next 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like red or green bell peppers in your salsa, add ½ cup each. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.

birmingham Ăž may 2014 33

Live Well summer fun in birmingham • pl ay at work • amelia isl and tr avel

12 Free Summertime Activities with Kids more information and head to Ruffner Mountain or Oak Mountain for a great course.

2

Text by Alison Lewis

S

ummertime can get expensive with camps, activities, eating out, and vacations. As a mom of three children, I am always looking for ways to save money, especially around this time of year. As my kids grow older, these budget-friendly, summer activities have stayed on the top of our list throughout the years!

1

Try Geocaching: Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor, treasure hunting game. Players try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, using GPS enabled devices such as a smart phone.

Check out Geocaching.com for

34 birmingham Þ may 2014

Culture: Spend a half-day at the Birmingham Museum of Art exploring and learning about the scientific, artistic, cultural or historical importance of the artifacts and collections. This will be a great way for your young ones to learn about some of the unique facts and stories surrounding your hometown. If your local museums charge admission, check your local library as some allow you to “borrow” membership passes for free entry.

3

Summer reading: Take a day off to explore your local library or bookstores. Emmet O’ Neil, Vestavia Library, Homewood Library, and more all have fabulous events. Find a few books that interest you and start a book club with your children and their parents!

4

Biking: Plan a bike outing.

This is a great way to get some exercise, while changing up your

every day scenery. Pack food and enjoy a nice midday picnic. Head to Oak Mountain or Lakeshore trail for the best in mountain and trail riding.

5

Hiking: Find a local hiking trail or make a hiking path around your own neighborhood!

It’s a great way to get outdoors and spend quality time with your family. Head to the Vulcan Trail, Red Mountain Park, Oak Mountain, or Moss Rock Preserve for easy or challenging courses.

6

Cooking: Entertain your kids on a rainy day by getting them in the kitchen to bake their favorite recipes. Once you’ve worked together to choose a recipe, teach them how to measure, bake, or customize ingredients to make it their own.

7

Lemonade stand: No matter what your child’s age, this simple activity is always fun and rewarding. Help your kids create a lemonade stand on a warm, summer evening in your neighborhood and sell refreshments to your fellow neighbors. Remember that it is important to always supervise your children during outdoor activities.

8

Sprinkler fun: Water sprinklers are still a classic, fun activity for kids to enjoy during the summer months. Sometimes we tend to forget how simple it is to turn them on, sit back and watch your kids play! Remember to keep your water usage in mind and be sure you’re using it when your grass needs a good soaking.

9

Organize and clean: Help your children straighten up their rooms, rearrange furniture, clean out their closets. Donate too small or unused clothing and toys.

Get ready for fall sports by reorganizing game equipment. This can be a great family activity that helps parents out at the same time!

10

Gardens: Spend the morning or afternoon with the kids outdoors walking about flowers and plants at the Botanical Gardens or Aldridge Gardens.

Dress for photos and bring your camera for fabulous backgrounds.

11

Bowling: Vestavia Bowl has a program called “Kids Bowl Free”. See kidsbowlfree.com

12

Cool down: Head to the Splash Pad in Springville or Gardendale for free cooling off fun.

Gardendale Location: 2191 Fieldstown Road Springville location: 205.467.2705

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Be Well, Birmingham.

Text and photo by

Marcy Miller

Cayenne Creative Shares Tips for Working Hard & Playing Harder.

Employers know that productivity is directly impacted by the health of the organization—the employee’s health.

A

dvertising firm, Cayenne Creative, is a prime example of a local business that promotes health and fitness initiatives at work. Partners Dan Murch, Dan Monroe, and Sam Burn understand the need for an office culture that encourages employees to take care of themselves. In addition to encouraging wellness outside the office, Cayenne Creative offers opportunities for stress relief inside the office.

An added bonus is their “bring your dog to work” policy. On any

given day, you may find Gracie, Dan Murch’s furry sidekick or Sara, Crawford Miller’s pug. “They bring fun and energy into the office,” says Crawford.

Another cultural norm is worklife balance. Family is important at Cayenne. Finding that balance in professional and personal obligations is vital to wellness at work. Approximately twice a year, the whole team is invited to Sam Burns’ home for a casual get-together. These events are for employees and their families so that the team can get to know each other in a more personal manner.

“It is a relief to know that the company I work for understands and supports me during the times when my family needs me,” says Kate Lipscomb.

Employees also support and hold each other accountable with life outside of the office. You can find them volunteering together, working out together and sharing healthy recipes. They challenge one another to incorporate fitness and healthy habits into their daily routines. Right now, the Cayenne team is embarking on a group fitness event. They have formed a team for the upcoming Glow in the

Hoola-hoops, scooters, and the occasional pick-up game of baseball are commonplace as well as spaces for quiet time or creative brainstorming.

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Park 5K. “This seems like a great opportunity to start something new and fun that promotes fitness,” says Dan Monroe.

Participation in a team-centered fitness event not only encourages physical fitness, but also reinforces the team-centered culture and supportive philosophy held by Cayenne. Consequently, their employees seem genuinely excited about participating.

Keeping a healthy workforce is key to good business. Employees that are given the opportunities and support they need to take care of themselves are found to be more satisfied and more productive.

play hard at work Create a work culture that supports your employee’s physical and mental health: Provide Stress Relief Incorporate breaks into your daily routine. Remember to laugh. Support each other.

Change the Pace. Plan an activity that gets everyone out of their regular routine and allows them to do something different together.

Get Active. Plan time to exercise as a group or individually and hold each other accountable.

Share the Health Create an environment for employees to share ideas, actions, and opportunities to live well.

Give Back Encourage employees to give back to their communities.

Balance Let your employees know that you care about their personal needs.

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LI V E W ELL

text by alison Lewis

7 Musts in Amelia Island

Where southern charm meets Florida, Amelia Island is a mix of pristine waters, long, beautiful beaches, shady trails, and historic settings, offering pleasures for family and couples.

Here are 10 must-dos while on Amelia Island:

1

Hit the Beach Step onto the wide sandy beaches of Amelia Island’s shores, where you will enjoy peaceful walks, an array of shells and maybe even find a shark tooth or two. Sunbathe,

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walk, swim or even ride a Segway along the beach. Whether you like fishing, Jet Skiing or paddleboarding, you’ll find plenty to do here. Amelia’s waters are filled with the opportunity to land

red bass, trout, flounder, tarpon and more.

2

Paddleboarding Come face-to-face with a dolphin, sea turtle or even manatees with Kayak Amelia and Amelia Island Kaya Excursions. Both host tours on Amelia’s inland waters, offering options for all levels. Don’t miss Kayak Amelia’s stand-up paddleboard tours.

where to stay Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island This luxurious resort offers service at its best: elegant guest rooms, four restaurants, and oceanside tennis courts. Choose from a shark tooth hunt, fish feeding, eco-kayak tours, custom salt-blending classes, beach bonfires and more. You’ll also find a workout room and an amazing spa with an array of signature treatments and a game room.

800. 277.1100; ritzcarlton.com/ameliaisland

3

Saddle up Take a horseback ride on the pristine shores at Stay ‘N Country Ranch. Located on 40 acres, you’ll find well-trained horses and an amazing ride along the beach from Peter’s Point Park near the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.

4

Biking Whether by bike or Segway, Amelia Island is the ideal destination for exploring nature. Cyclists can visit several state parks, and the trails at the Omni Island Plantation are amazing. Explore nature through Fort George’s Trail to Kingsley Plantation, the Trail to Point Isabel, or Fort Clinch State Park. The Omni Amelia Island Plantation also offers daily Segway tours at Amelia’s Wheels, including through the marsh and creekside, or along the beach.

5

Walking Stroll through history at Fort Clinch, which is one of the most well preserved 19thcentury forts in the country. Hike

or bike along a six-mile trail in the park and view the biggest sand dunes in the state. Self-guided nature trails provide fabulous opportunities to learn about and observe native plants and wildlife.

6

Shopping Amelia Island is the home of eclectic stores, boutiques, galleries, and shops.

Fernandina Beach’s charming historic Centre Street blends local flavor with fabulous finds.

7

Dining With more than 40 restaurants, Amelia Island offers something for every taste and price point. For a memorable meal, head to Salt at the RitzCarlton, Amelia Island for the best in steaks, seafood, appetizers and salads. (Don’t skip the Bananas Foster or Dark Chocolate Soufflé).

Merge is fabulous for fine seafood with a healthful twist (and a chef who does amazing card tricks), or stop by BarZin Bistro and Wine Bar for the best risotto and seafood potpie you’ve ever had.

Omni Amelia Island Plantation After its recent $85 million reimagination, enter the gorgeous new lobby with breathtaking views of the expanded poolscape.

Choose from activities galore including Segway tours on the beach, paddleboarding, golf, and an amazing tennis program (named as a top tennis resort by several tennis publications). Choose from Tree House Yoga, kayaking, biking, hiking, fishing, archery, golf and more. Programs for kids are endless. 866.481.5057; omniameliaislandplantation. com Elizabeth Point Lodge Come with a friend or your significant other and completely disconnect at this 25-room bedand-breakfast. You’ll find plenty of rocking chairs, lemonade, bikes, and beachfront service.

The breakfast is amazing.

Don’t miss the Apple Pear Bread, homemade blueberry muffins and pancakes and pure relaxation. 904.277.4851; elizabethpointlodge.com

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BE INVOLVED may 2014 CALENDAR OF EVENTS / CLUBS / ACTIVITIES

foot breakfast restaurant will be on highway 280 in Inverness. Currence is creating a breakfast place that makes all of its food from scratch, produced its own condiments and serves as much local produce and meats as possible. Stay tuned for the opening. Big Bad Breakfast Inverness

Lifetime Fitness Tumor Trooper Run/Walk When: Saturday, May 31 2014 5k run starts at 8am 1-mile walk starts at 8:15am Where: Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park To Register: braintumorkids.org Registration Closing Date: Thursday, May 29, 2014 at 11pm Sign up for a great cause at the 1st Annual Tumor Trooper Run/Walk benefiting the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children.

Run with the Trak Shak on Wednesday nights.

Every Wednesday at 5:30pm and Saturdays for longer runs at 6am Trak Shak Homewood 205.870.5644 • trakshak.com Resolute Running Join their 6am Sunday morning runs Resolute Running Homewood 205.492.4670 • resoluterunning.com Yoga at Railroad Park When: May 1, May 15 2014 6 p.m.

Where: Please arrive 15 minutes early to 40 birmingham Þ may 2014

register. You will be required to sign-in each time you participate in this class.

This yoga is for the beginning as well as advanced student. This class is FREE thanks to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

Happy Feet Friday When: May 2, 16 2014 6 p.m.

Where: Railroad Park Get your feet moving in the right direction with a 60-minute low to high impact walk/ run course designed to wake up, shape up, or maintain the inner athlete in you. All experience levels are welcome.

Crunk Fitness May 12, 19th Crunk Fitness is a fun, high-energy, hip-hop dance workout for all levels. It involves a combination of basic aerobics movements and funky hip-hop dance moves, broken down so anyone can do it.

Restaurant opening: Big Bad Breakfast Chef John Currence, who has partnered with Michael Bodner and Nick Pihakis of Jim N’ Nick’s BBQ, says the 3,600 square-

Cool New Yoga Classes Paddle Board Yoga When: Sunday May 11 Session 1: 10-11:30am Session 2: 11am-12:30pm FEE: $45 for members; $55 for nonmembers (includes paddle board rental) Lauren Lippeatt and Jennifer Leahy will lead two sessions on Sunday.

Take Flight: Adding Altitude to Your Flows with Denise Wiginton When: Friday, May 16, 6-8 pm FEE: $25 members; $35 non-members Learn how to add lift and altitude to your jump backs, jump throughs, and chaturunga so that your practice begins to float as much as it flows.

Finding Stillness Through Yin with Dr. Shawn Galin When: Saturday, May 24; 3-5 pm FEE: $25 members / $35 non-members Shawn will take you on a journey to stillness using the practice of yin with mindfulness to the anatomy and physiology of the practice. lifetimefitness.com/VestaviaHills‎

degrees. Ride leader: Maaike Everts, Linda Reimann, Deb Munago, Pete Foret (look for the one in the Lifetime Fitness jersey) 205.987.4043 or sdavis@lifetimefitness. com OR check out “Cahaba cycles/Lifetime Fitness MTB ride” on Facebook.

Saturdays, 8am; Pelham Location: Join us for a pair of road rides. Ride number one will cover around 40 miles at an average pace of 18 mph. Ride number two will incorporate Oak Mountain State Park into the mix covering 15-20 miles with an average pace of 12-15 mph. Don’t forget your pass or $3 for entry fee. 205.987.4043

Weekly Rides at Cahaba Cycles Mondays: Join Casey Fannin at the beach parking lot at Oak Mountain State Park from 5:30 for TRIATHLONS 101. The group will tackle a 200 yd swim, 8.5-mile bike, and a 1.5-mile run. This will be a non-competitive adventure using the time as easy recovery, or to offer a great way to do an easy triathlon in a beginner friendly environment.

Contact: Casey Fannin at tricasey@ bellsouth.net Tuesdays: Trussville Road Ride: 5:30pm 25 miles at a 16-18 average pace. Led by Wayne Spooner.

205.655.6090 for more details.

Tuesdays: 5:30pm / Trussville Sports Complex Trails. Varying levels. Group decides the route. Led By Lee Neal.

205.655.6090 for more details Tuesdays & Thursdays: Road Ride 5:30pm Meet at Shelby County Courthouse parking lot (corner of Lester St. and West College St.) 20-40 miles, intermediate pace of 14-18 mph email: framsay618@hotmail.com Every Wednesday; 6pm: The Watermelon Ride! Join ride leaders at the South Trailhead parking lot in Oak

Mountain State Park for a road group ride. Hangout afterwards for some good conversation, and, you guessed it, watermelon! 205.987.4043 Thursdays: Join us for Dirty Thursday Night—a co-ed group mountain bike ride at Oak Mountain. Intermediate to advanced skill levels are recommended due to night-riding conditions, pace, and mileage. The ride departs from the south trailhead parking lot at 5:30 and will last for 2-2.5 hours. Lights are strongly recommended. Follow-up trail discussion at a local Mexican restaurant after the ride. No ride in rain. Ride leader: Stacey Davis Pelham 205.987.4043

Saturdays, 7:30 am: Cahaba Heights location Join us for a high tempo/intensity road ride. The ride will cover around 40 miles and will be done by approx. 10-10:30am. This not a beginner ride. It is designed for a competitive rider.

If a rider is dropped the group will hold up and re-group. Ride Leader Chris Barksdale/ Jonathan Robbins.

205.967.2003 Sundays: Road Ride at 2:30pm. This group meets in the parking lot of Life Time Fitness. This is an intermediate/advanced ride with two ride leads present. This is not appropriate for beginners due to the terrain and the traffic. email sdavis@lifetimefitness.com

Thursdays, 5:30: Road Ride at Trussville.

Led by Wayne Spooner.

205.655.6090 for more details.

Saturdays; 11am: Life Time Fitness/ Cahaba Cycles Beginner MTB Ride.

Where: Oak Mountain. This is a TRUE beginner ride, however, all skill levels are welcome. If you’re intimidated by trail riding and would really like to give it a try a non-competitive environment, there’s no better place to start than this ride. Departs from the south trailhead parking lot no later than 11am. No ride in rain or sub-40 birmingham Þ may 2014 41

Personal perspective

text by Jennifer Andress /

Photo by Rob Ingram

The Best is Yet to Come.

Meet The Inspiring Jennifer Andress

M

y life changed forever 10 years ago. In the span of five months, from April to September 2004, I had one baby boy diagnosed as profoundly hearing-impaired, and I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ while pregnant with another baby boy, who would then also be diagnosed as profoundly hearing-impaired. In this stretch of time, my 12 month-old received hearing aids, I underwent a single mastectomy while 6 months pregnant, and my newborn boy began his journey towards cochlear implants. I was mapped for radiation on my 36th birthday.

Because of my youth, my family

history of breast cancer, and the large amount of DCIS throughout the breast, I faced radiation and another mastectomy with reconstruction after my second baby was born. Needless to say, my fitness took a back seat during this time. I quit my job and spent my time headed to appointments.

I had been physically active most of my life (and had been a semiserious runner in high school and in my 20’s), but once John was born, I was putting in only the bare minimum at the gym.

Today, my boys are straight-A students in a mainstream school, play a myriad of sports, and talk all of the time! My husband and I recommitted ourselves to a healthy lifestyle as we were turning 40.

We cleaned up our diets with the help of a nutritionist, and I began running again with purpose. As a stay-at-home mom, I needed to channel my Type-A personality into something, and I began to work hard at my running. I initially started running longer distances in order to fundraise for The Bell Center for Early

Intervention Programs—the place where my boys went after they were first diagnosed.

Gaining momentum, I decided to train for my first marathon. I ran the Mercedes Marathon in 2010 in honor of another hearingimpaired child. I qualified for the Boston Marathon at that race, and went on to run Boston twice and the New York Marathon once.

My husband and I are running New York this year, after training for the 2012 New York Marathon that was canceled in the wake of Hurricane Sandy.

Today I stay busy with training while my kids are in school. I also serve as President of the Birmingham Track Club, which has 1100 members, and as Marketing Director of Resolute Running Training Center—a fitness center geared towards training and serving runners. I am healthy, save for some small running injuries that pop up from time to time, and so appreciative of the past 10 years. It is a crazy story, for sure. But it is ours. I wouldn’t change it for the world.

“As sad as our family’s story sounds, it happened. We dealt with it and put our trust in our expert doctors and therapists. Now,10 years later, I could not be happier.”

—Jennifer Andress

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Sweaty Moms Running Club “Sweaty...the new hot.”

O

ur “club” began with five unique women pursuing a common goal: we wanted to run faster. This quest brought us together once a week for intense speed training on the track where we discovered we’re serious runners who don’t take ourselves too seriously. So a story was told of a particularly hot and sweaty day, when one of us was trying to squeeze in a run during her kid’s after school activity.

A conversation was overheard: She’s always so sweaty, said a decidedly un-sweaty mom, in a snarky tone. At that moment, we unearthed common ground.

We laughed that we were always in our workout clothes, and felt the need for attractive clothes that told the world, “Fitness is important to us! I may not have found the time to do my hair and makeup today, but I have worked out!”

And our clothing line was born!

We memorialized our philosophy that “Sweaty is the New Hot” on a line of attractive fitness and après-fitness apparel, and have been selling clothing on our website and running expos. We have a big summer planned with a show at the Motherwalk 5km in Crestline Village on May 10, and a booth at the Peachtree 10K Expo in Atlanta July 2 to 3rd.

We are excited about showcasing our fitness clothing to 50,000+ runners in Atlanta.

For more information, email us at info@sweatythenewhot.com or visit sweatythenewhot.com

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