May 2019 - The Blonde Side

Heavy Hitter SPENGA Hits Montrose

SPENGA Houston

Montrose has a new fitness studio in town, and I recently checked it out. SPENGA is a 20/20/20 (min) mix of spin, strength and yoga rolled into a 60-minute class.

SPENGA has been open for 5 weeks, and is located at 243 Westheimer, in the heart of the Montrose neighborhood. The classes are 24 people max and it’s broken down into 3 parts: Spin (where you try to get to your “sweet spot” on the monitor), Strength (TRX, bosu balls, free weights, etc.) and Yoga (which also serves as your flexibility/stretching aspect).

SPENGA is a franchise across the nation that started about two years ago and the owner of the Montrose studio, James, has lived in Houston on and off for 20 years and has an intense passion for health and fitness. He owns three studios (Montrose, plus one coming in Bellaire and the Heights).

My girl Roz, who I’ve known for years is the head instructor at the Montrose studio, and I know how much intensity she puts into her work, so Houston fitness fans can get excited about this place.

Here’s the nitty gritty from my experience and what I liked/didn’t like:

My class: Tuesday, 9:30a class with Instructor Kim (she was great)

SPENGA courtesy photo

Cost: $34 drop-in rate, which is quite pricey, however, they have a current special called the SPENGA test-drive, where you get your first month of unlimited classes for $139. ALSO – they have a money back guarantee – try this Houston fitness studio for 30 days and if you don’t like it/see the start of some strong results, they’ll give you your money back. What. Do. You. Have. To. Lose?

On the spin bikes: It was hard to understand the zones, so I think it’ll take a few classes to maximize your potential and output. Both Andrea and I messed that part up, though it didn’t affect our workout (and we are both blonde, so that could have been part of it).

On the strength floor: This isn’t a vanity thing, but there aren’t any mirrors on the strength floor, and I’m used to checking my form when lifting. Not a deal breaker, but I’m a big advocate of knowing your trainers and letting them know your limitations or ways they can help you have an effective workout. After countless orthopedic surgeries, my form is probably more important than most, so mirrors come in handy. They do have monitors above the stations, so it’s easy to mimic the form of the on-screen trainer.

SPENGA Montrose Fitness Moto

Also on the strength floor, I like how they have a “survivor exercise,” when you get burnt out or need a break from the current exercise. In my class it was body weight squats, meant to keep your body moving.

I’m also used to a circuit of 3-5 individual exercises and then repeat each set 2-4 times, but here you did the same movement (i.e. hammer curls) in 3-4 sets before moving to the next exercise. Part of an effective workout routine in my opinion is changing up how you do things so you don’t get burnt out or plateau, so this was a welcome (and super tough) change.

Yoga: I’ve often said I need to incorporate yoga in my workout regime, but I don’t love it enough to sign up for an entirely new membership/gym or to spend an hour dedicated to it (not that it would hurt me by any means). This Montrose gym adds a quick 20-minute yoga block to end your 60-minute class

Are they on Class Pass? No

You love Orangetheory, isn’t it the same? No, not really. For those who don’t like to run (although OTF is running or walking during the tread block), SPENGA is a great option since the cardio portion is on a spin bike. I’m personally not a huge fan of spin classes, but knowing you have 20-minutes to go all out and then move on to the next section helps. I also find OTF a bit more intense, which for the most part, that’s what I need. Again, the added yoga portion to this workout is key. I get that yoga is still a “workout,” but if you personally don’t count yoga as a workout, then SPENGA is more like a 40-minute class. Again, different strokes for different folks. Over the two years I’ve done OTF, various people have thought the running or rower wasn’t their thing (maybe it was too hard on their knees or hips), and SPENGA eliminates that. SPENGA (just like OTF) sends a workout summary to your email, which I love. I love seeing numbers on most things as it’s added proof it was an effective workout and use of my time.

Will you go again? This was only my first class, but I plan to incorporate SPENGA Houston into my workouts more. I also love working out with friends (it’s a win-win to spend time with them and catch up while simultaneously getting your workout in), so I can see doing this with a few people.

Check out more Houston fitness content here.

May 14, 2019/by Jayme

The Perfect Montrose Houston Weekend

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Head to The Dunlavy for Montrose Houston Brunch

Houston is one of those energized cities that always has so much going on, it can almost be intimidating. I follow a few blogs and social media accounts (and downtown Houston’s weekly newsletters) to keep up-to-date with everything happening, but I’ve also been around the Montrose block long enough to create a little weekend itinerary myself.

Here is my perfect Montrose weekend itinerary:

Start with any of these Montrose coffee shops, but if you’re starting at Encore Montrose, a quick walk next-door to Black Hole coffee is an obvious choice. Quaint, laid-back vibe with awesome coffee and people watching.

I’m personally a big fan of brunch, and no weekend is complete without mimosas and brunch. Before brunch, I recommend taking advantage of one of Houston’s amazing parks on a nice day.

I love Buffalo Bayou, because it’s centrally located with easy parking to meet up with friends and of course, it’s dog and stroller-friendly. Then head over to Dunlavy for a casual brunch amongst a handful of sparkling chandeliers, that make for a great photo opp as well. It’s a pretty casual spot (order at the counter) on the weekends, so it’s no problem to come in yoga/running clothes — even if you’re sweaty and in a hat (my usual weekend outfit). They have smoothies and “real food” as well as indoor and outdoor seating, all with beautiful park views.

Empire Cafe is probably my second choice for a true-Montrose brunch, which is also counter service and incredibly popular. Most of the seating is outdoors, but the reason these two top my brunch list is they are both in great locations, so you can either walk around the park (while at Dunlavy) or around some fun and eclectic shops on Westheimer, along with hitting up one of my favorite Montrose Houston murals along the way.

Mid-day my vote is to take a few hours and hang by the pool at Encore Montrose, which overlooks 59 (but obviously you have to live here or know someone who does for that). The crowd here is always fun, it’s easy to invite a friend or two over and it’s never (at least not yet) out of control. Bring some rosé from your apartment and bask in the sun for a few hours.

Another way to spend the afternoon in Montrose is galavanting around the

Iced Coffee After a Run at Buffalo Bayou Park

Houston Museum District, which is only a few miles from our Montrose apartments, and highly regarded around the nation. There are 19 museums (that’s seriously a lot) in 4 walkable zones and some changing exhibits and nightly events that are well worth the visit.

If you’re looking for a low-key evening in Montrose, Light Years Wine Shop is literally a cute little house/turned business I stumbled upon a few weeks ago. It has an incredible local vibe, deserving of the Montrose neighborhood address and they offer tastings every Friday from 5-8p, though I’d recommend visiting anytime. You can rent bikes from one of Houston’s cycle stations, take your own or walk.

I don’t do clubs or intense nightlife spots, but I do enjoy an early evening at nearby Goodnight Charlie’s for LIVE music or Bar Boheme to meet friends, which has a laid back vibe and a ton of picnic tables out back.

Many have told me Bacco Wine Garden is up my alley, and although I haven’t been yet, I thought I should add it to this Montrose list based on the number of recommendations I’ve received. Per my preference, these are all laid back joints, but you can hit up a few “clubs” in Montrose if that’s more your speed.

This is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing what I love about this unique neighborhood in Houston. These luxury Montrose apartments are currently offering a few leasing specials on all their remaining floor plans, like a few weeks free rent. Stop by for a quick tour and tell them Jayme (or The Blonde Side) sent you! There aren’t many apartments left, so hurry and my pro tip – ask for the Champagne Tour.

May 13, 2019/by Jayme

Houston Dentist — Dentistry of the Oaks

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Houston Dentist Love – Dentistry of the Oaks (Houston Heights)

If someone says they love going to the dentist, that’s probably your number 1 sign they are lying. Let’s be real – going to the dentist is rarely fun, except for the fact your teeth come out extra clean, which I’ve read is the best time to use your at-home teeth whitener.

But I’m getting off topic.

I want to start by sharing that I recently went to Dentistry of the Oaks, located in the Garden Oaks neighborhood not far from the Houston Heights, and it was a much needed visit. I got exceptional treatment and learned a lot – especially about why skipping the dentist for a few years was a terrible idea. Like a lot of things I do in life…

I know I’m not alone not having dental insurance. And I haven’t for probably five or six years. I mistakenly thought if I was brushing regularly and flossing (which I actually do, thank you very much), that I wouldn’t need a dentist, but when Dr. Stuchlik did my x-rays, it was clear I was very much wrong.

What I realized was the dentist is not (or should not be) optional for any of us. We spend so much time getting our nails done or putting filters on our photos, but we’re not as worried about our smiles that people see everyday? Seems weird, right?

Going to the dentist is still a very valid and integral part of your health. Heart disease, oral cancer, nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, bad breath and more are just a few things you put at the risk of going unnoticed by skipping that “optional” dentist appointment. Like most parts of our body, your teeth/gums/tongue/etc. all need to have a professional monitor them from time to time, if not twice a year, definitely annually.

You can also read this SELF article on why you shouldn’t skip the dentist.

Another thing I learned was skipping regular dental visits does not actually save you money (and not having dental insurance because of cost is one of the top reasons people like me skip it all together)! Seriously, saving $100 on a cleaning (or less) is nothing compared to having multiple cavities filled or major dental work. Not only was I not having my teeth properly monitored for new cavities, I had some old fillings that needed replaced, which may not have been needed had I stayed on top of regular appointments.

Another thing to consider is not having everything done if you just need a checkup. Sure x-rays are advised at least once a year, but according to this NY Times article, “Adults without apparent dental problems do not need dental X-rays of any kind every year, the A.D.A. says.” If you go to a Houston dentist you trust, like Dr. Stuchlik and Dr. Wendt, they won’t try to pull one over on you for exams and tests that aren’t needed.

Thanks for coming to my TED Talk about not skipping the dentist. And again, I highly recommend this dentist office in Houston.

May 13, 2019/by Jayme

Everything You Need For A Cozy Night In

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Everything you need for a cozy night in

It’s certainly no secret I’m a home body. My travel schedule is fairly hectic, so when I have a few days in Houston, I tend to be extremely lazy and take full advantage of my Houston apartment. So if there’s one thing I’m well-versed in, it’s how to have the most perfect and cozy night in.

Here are a few products and tips to make the perfect cozy night in (invite girlfriends over to hang, spend it by yourself, let your pup hang out for some quality time or whatever works best for you):

Have something to do. Obviously I’m not talking about a tedious home project or finishing up an excel spreadsheet, but if that’s your thing, have at it. For me, sometimes that’s unloading my piled-up DVR from extensive traveling. Sometimes that’s reading, or most of the time, it’s a Lifetime TV Movie or a fresh episode of Dateline. (I’m trying to make #DatelineandWine a thing – anyone else obsessed?)
Candles x Candles x Candles. I am obsessed with candles,
Montrose Apartments are perfect for a cozy night in

especially all the ones from Anthropologie. I used to be one of those people who hoarded my “good candles” for special occasions and I noticed every time I moved, I’d have a crap ton of candles and what’s more special than a cozy night in for yourself? Now I have candles going 24/7. Along with candles, I’m a big fan of these super affordable essential oils, but not in the crazy lady kind of way. I put a few drops on my pillow on the couch or on a neck wrap and try to pretend like I’m at the spa!
Good wine. Obviously you don’t need to drink for a cozy night, but I love a good Friday night on the couch, drinking a glass of rosé and of course, a new episode of Dateline. I am fully aware how disturbing this Dateline obsession can sound to some of you. I also love this Sparkling Margarita recipe if tequila and bubbles are more your speed.
Turning my phone off. Even a quick power down for 20-30 minutes or to get through a TV show uninterrupted, which gives my phone a break, but my mind as well.
Slippers + PJs. Another guilty pleasure of mine are ultra-comfy pajamas and my Ugg slippers. To me, these slippers are well worth the investment, but obviously any comfy slippers will work. Pajama sets like this one from Madewell are also my jam. Something about dressing up for a cozy night in without all the hair and makeup effort makes staying in all the more enjoyable. This is another PJ set I love.
Face mask(s) for the win. There are literally millions to choose from, but this Vitamin C face mask gives my skin a glow it desperately needs. I also love this Burt’s Bees Detoxifying Sheet Mask, which is perfect for a night in, but also super easy to travel with, which is why I always have a few on hand. Just like my body needs a cozy and casual night in to reboot, at the end of the week my skin needs a little boost too, and face masks definitely help with dull skin.
Cozy apartment. Of course picking a cozy Houston apartment is helpful in this too! Although I’m smack-dab in the Montrose neighborhood, my apartment itself is serene and quiet. I have a courtyard view and on a nice night, I leave my patio door open for a breeze (let’s be honest – this is a rarity in Houston). Our Montrose apartments also just got a Stockwell machine, which is one floor below me and you use an app to grab little things you may have forgotten, like an entire case of La Croix if you need a mixer!).

*This post contains affiliate links, and you can shop some of my favorite stores here.

This is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing the things I love about living in Houston, particular the Montrose area. I have lived in these brand-new luxury Montrose apartments for about 7 months and am absolutely loving this complex and being central to so many fun things like these Montrose wall murals. If you’re looking for a new Montrose apartment, be sure to add Encore Montrose to your list of tours and mention me (Jayme or The Blonde Side) for an extra incentive, and definitely ask for the Champagne Tour!

May 7, 2019/by Jayme