Going to a new gym scares me. I’m serious. I feel incredibly self conscious, have a hard time figuring things out and sometimes feel like I don’t belong. I have this fish out of water theory: you’re the newbie, afraid everyone there is already best friends and is judging you. Most of the time, that’s just in my head. It’s only happened at two gyms over the course of my time trying out gyms for the purpose of this column.
If you’ve been following The Blonde Side or my Houston Instagram page, you know I recently started working out at SPENGA, in Montrose. If you’re looking to try it out, shoot me a note and let’s go together. There’s power in numbers. Or you can call and book an appointment and score a free class by using my name at the Montrose and The Woodlands locations only.
SPENGA FAQ’s:What is it? It’s 60-minutes of a hardcore workout, split up into sections: 20 minutes spin, 20 minutes strength and 20 minutes yoga
Do I need spin shoes? Nope, use your regular shoes (but you are welcome to bring spin shoes).
Spin bikes scare me, is it scary? Spin bikes scare me too. True story – it took me TEN classes to learn how to adjust my bike. Luckily I wasn’t afraid to ask and all the staff gladly helped me each time (though I was probably super annoying!).
What do I need to bring? I have never been that person to bring a sweat towel to a gym, until SPENGA, so bring that. And water. And a positive attitude.
Do they have lockers? Yes, and use them. Never leave stuff in your car, especially in Houston! They also have showers so if you need to get ready for work or a hot date, you’re in luck.
Is this the only workout you do? As of right now, it’s the only class/instructor driven workout. I still do some at-home workouts, especially since I travel so much. But I also love that SPENGA is a franchise, so I plan to try their studios out near Denver over the next few months to help stay in more of a routine. Plus, since you’re getting spin, weights and yoga, it feels like I’m taking quite a few classes/disciplines.
Can I try it? Yes, and as a matter of fact, if you use my name (Jayme or The Blonde Side works) when you call the studio in Montrose, your class is free. So take advantage of that!
I recently did a 3-day juice cleanse from Squeezed here in Houston (they ship all over) before an upcoming trip to Mexico. My boyfriend and I both did one — I was a tad reluctant, but since I had so many questions about what to expect, I thought I’d document my 3-day journey below:
Sunday
9a: (yes, I sleep in on weekends!) Woke up desperately wanting coffee, but LOVED the cashew milk that had coffee and a hint of cinnamon. I also took a “before” picture because although I’m doing this 3-day juice cleanse for a variety of reasons, I did pick the timing 5 days before my trip to Puerto Vallarta.
11a: Realized I hadn’t drank my breakfast yet. Mostly tasted like beets – though I love the taste of beets (oh yum with goat cheese!), drinking it is pretty weird for me.
1:40p: Sent a text to my boyfriend “I don’t think I’m going to make it.” Grabbed my lunch
My Juice Cleanse Diary
drink (1B) because I did read you aren’t supposed to wait until you’re hungry. All the TV shows I’m binging all have food. It’s not fair!
It feels a bit isolating — no coffee dates or brunches or having friends over for wine. But I keep telling myself I’m doing this to test my willpower as well as detox and reset my body. And to be frank, a cleanse is meant to clean you out. So I’m pretty thankful I didn’t schedule any plans or meetings, at least so far.
3:30p: Drinking IC and I am NOT a fan of green juices. This is the first juice that’s truly hard to get down.
4:22p: Only about halfway finished with this green juice. I can’t stomach it – literally.
4:36p: Finished it and not feeling great.
You can also read about my first juice cleanse five years ago. I stand by the simple fact “keep a bathroom nearby at all times.”
5:20p: Texted my boyfriend “no way I can do this. Need Cocoa Puffs. With pizza. And peanut butter.” Coiencidentally this is when my dog managed to put his blanket blocking the fridge because he knew how weak my willpower was. See photo.
7:48p: Hunger pains and venting to my boyfriend. He responded with: “If you can’t commit to a 3 day cleanse how can I expect you to commit to me?” Humor and sarcasm can get you through just about anything.
9p: Time for my last juice (the activated charcoal one that looks the least appetizing), but really don’t want it. Feeling more juice overwhelmed and craving greasy foods more than actual hunger. It really didn’t taste bad, but had a uniquely gritty texture. I almost finished it, but didn’t.
10p: Stomach wasn’t too happy and definitely glad I live alone.
I’m glad a few people sent me messages on Instagram about the color of your juice matching your current bathroom situation. It helped confirm I was not actually dying, so that was comforting.
Monday
9a: Woke up feeling fine, fingers crossed. Definitely missing my coffee.
10:30a: Feeling foggy and lethargic, but who knows if that’s due to the cleanse or just me being lazy on a Monday.
12p: I keep thinking I am forgetting to do something, but oh yeah — that’s eating! I’m used to pausing my workday for snacks or coffee or making lunch plans. I guess that should mean more time to get my work done. So far no cravings or major hunger, mostly boredom. Hope it stays that way.
12:40p: Must be in a fog — shook my juice because they seem to taste better (maybe?) and the lid wasn’t on completely. So now I have a beet and kale flavored and color-spotted couch. Awesome.
4p: Heading to workout at SPENGA Montrose. Feeling like I have plenty of energy, so we’ll see how this goes!
5:45p: Workout was way harder than I imagine — barely made it through the spin portion.
6:20p: First headache starting to set in. I wonder if it’s lack of food, water or rosé?
7:07p: Really jealous listening to my dog crunch on his food. Feels quite inconsiderate. Ok, maybe I am hungry. Cravings are more like it. I lit a pumpkin spice candle so I could at least smell something yummy. Today’s first green juice wasn’t as bad as yesterdays since it was sweeter, but not sure I can stomach the last one of the night.
9p: Minor headache turning into a bigger one.
9:45: Craving rice and shrimp and bread and everything.
Tuesday
8a: Woke up feeling fine. Today is the last day, giving myself some encouragement to push through.
9:30a: Drank half my cashew milk. Feeling nauseous, headed to Spenga for another workout. This could be interesting.
5:45p: Today hasn’t been bad but I miss eating. Hunger is setting in a little.
6p: How early is too early for bed since I can eat when I wakeup?
7p: I think juices on Day 3 are the worst.
Wednesday
11:20a: I know my cleanse is over but I am not hungry. I have sipped on coffee and had a bite of a granola bar. Weird but good. Also took my “after” picture.
As you can see from my before and after pictures, I don’t notice a huge difference, but a little less bloating. I’m quite impressed with myself for being able to push through those hunger pains, especially from day one. So far (it’s only Thursday), it has made me more cautious about what and how much I ate and don’t seem to be super hungry. We’ll see how long it lasts.
Jayme Lamm | Women’s Health Magazine Action Hero 2019
I am so excited to be back as a Women’s Health Action Hero and loved that the popular mag interviewed me (along with about 40 other badass women across the country).
This is my 7th straight year (since the program’s inception) that I have been chosen as a Women’s Health Magazine Action Hero. We get to be some of the first to try and share new products (related to beauty, lifestyle and fitness) and the best part is the community I’ve built with the other powerhouse females in the program.
Women around the country who all strive to maintain an active and well-balanced life. Sometimes that means beast-mode workouts like what I do when I’m in Houston at SPENGA Montrose, sometimes that means indulging in my favorite wine or champagne, and sometimes that means finding 20-minutes worth of barely-there motivation to workout at my apartment gym, Encore Montrose (as photographed above). Do you see how perfect this gym is in my own building? There should be zero excuses to workout!
SPENGA Montrose, if you’re not familiar, is the only workout to place an equal emphasis on all three essential elements of fitness: aerobic, strength, and flexibility.
I love my at-home workouts, thanks to our two-story gym at my brand-new Montrose apartment, but sometimes it’s hard to find the right motivation. Encore Montrose even hosts Saturday boot camps or yoga events from time-to-time, which is great for connecting with my fit-minded neighbors and helping me do something productive on days I feel a bit lazy. It’s all about living my best life at my Montrose apartment.
If you’re in Houston and you want to try SPENGA with me, just shoot me a note and let’s plan a workout together FOR FREE! You can also call the studio directly at 713.588.2315 and mention my name (Jayme or The Blonde Side) for a FREE workout class – you’ll love it!
This is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing what I love about this fun Houston neighborhood. These brand-new Montrose apartments have a few leasing incentives now, but be sure to check out their two-story gym (with a private spin/yoga studio on the 2nd floor) during your tour. Be sure to tell them Jayme (or The Blonde Side) sent you during your tour too!
Need to get your workout game back on track? Still trying to find the perfect gym/studio that fits your needs? Don’t sweat it — I’ve teamed up with some of Houston’s BEST fitness studios and gyms (and Clean Juice in the Heights) offering a variety of classes and workout routines and we are giving you AND A FRIEND a giveaway you can’t skip out on.
To officially enter the giveaway, go to this Instagram post to enter. For a bonus entry, leave a comment below. The winner will be randomly selected and announced on Friday, August 2nd at 5p CST.
Here is what we’re giving away, along with a little information on all the studios we teamed up with:
SPENGA Montrose Houston
SPENGA: Giving away a 5 pack of classes for you and a friend.
At SPENGA you get cardio, strength training, and flexibility all in a 1 hour class! SPENGA is the only workout to place an equal emphasis on all three essential elements of fitness: Cardio, Strength, and Flexibility. We promise you’; look netter, feel better, and move better. This unique workout combines Spin + HITT + Yoga all in one amazing 60-minute workout. Our studio is complete with luxurious appointment, DJ-inspired beats, and a cast of great instructors. This workout isn’t just designed to get you fit– it’s design so that you can be in the best shape of your life. Read about my personal experience at SPENGA, and remember that if you don’t win this contest, you (and a friend) can schedule a class FOR FREE by name dropping Jayme/The Blonde Side.
RYDE Houston Fitness Studio
RYDE:Giving away a1-month membership for the winner and a friend to both of their studios.
RYDE is the next generation of indoor cycling — with top-of-the-line equipment, premium amenities, and unparalleled service — this is so much more that just a 45-minute full-body workout.
Discover the next generation of indoor cycling. RYDE embodies the essence of invigorating fitness, unparalleled service, and maximum burn in a luxurious boutique environment. Featuring exhilarating music and highly skilled instructors, you will be inspired to exceed your goals, RYDE after RYDE.
The mission of RIDE is provide a platform where people feel accomplished, liberated and joyful. The best workouts are fun. And we believe that when people enjoy their workout they find strength in their body, realize clarity in their mind and begin to welcome fitness as a lifestyle. As they see their bodies change, they see anything is possible and they see their lives change too. We are in the business of making people feel good, on and off the bike, in the studio and at the front desk. We are here to welcome everyone to our Tribe…to RIDE.
At Revolution Studio, we hustle, flow and get RIPPED with purpose — each class is designed to help you achieve your strongest, leanest you — you’ll be moved by the experience and by each other. Our innovative cycle program, creative Vinyasa yoga classes, and epic high intensity interval strength training are the perfect compliment to each other, just ask our Warrior tribe. We’ve intentionally crafted our schedule to create the opportunity for you to take your favorite classes back-to-back, or better yet, make it a triple! Trust us, you’ll push yourself to the limit regardless of which class you take – whether on the bike, on the mat, or getting RIPPED, we guarantee your sweat session at Revolution Studio will leave you feeling inspired, empowered and transformed. With our vibes high, we bring the lights down low and turn the music up so you can Clip In. Rock Out. Flow Hard.®
VORTEX in Houston
Vortex: Giving away one week unlimited for winner plus friend.
Vortex is Houston’s luxury boutique fitness studio. A pure, no holds barred, un-adulterated fitness experience featuring RIDE, our signature cycling class, and RIP, the heads down, gloves up boxing class. Vortex features one of the most advanced lighting and music scene for your workout and is guaranteed to make you sweat.
Row House: Giving away one month unlimited for you and a friend.
Row House in Houston (Bellaire)
Row House is a low-impact, inclusive, team oriented workout designed to build muscle, torch calories, and strengthen your core in just 45 minutes. Rowing, redefined. At Row House, get ready to jump into an immersive, energetic indoor rowing class that blends low-impact cardio, resistance training, stretching, and rhythm-based rowing. We take the stigma out of rowing, and prove that people of all ages, sizes, and physical limitations can learn to row and achieve a level of accomplishment that is both physically beneficial and personally rewarding.
Clean Juice (Heights): Giving away a $25 gift card for you and a friend (to help refuel after
Clean Juice in Houston Heights
all these tough Houston workouts!).
Clean Juice Heights is an USDA Certified Organic juice bar located in the heart of the historic Houston Heights, right off of Heights Boulevard and 11th street.
All of our smoothies, juices, açaí bowls & toasts are made with the highest-quality, organically-sourced ingredients so that you know exactly what you are putting into your body.
We’re dedicated to promoting a healthy way of life in our Houston community, so you’ll always find us participating at various health and wellness events all over the city!
Stop by Clean Juice Heights for a light lunch, breakfast or post-workout meal. When you visit, be sure to ask about our cold-pressed juices and cleanses!
Contest is not affiliated, associated or endorsed by Instagram. Winner must comply with all rules and regulations listed by each individual studio/partner. Expiration dates, waivers, etc. may apply.
I recently started working out at SPENGA, located on Westheimer in the heart of Montrose and wanted to share my experience so far. I’ve only gone to ~10 classes, but have been getting questions about the workout.
First, I love the location. It’s less than five minutes from my apartment (Encore Montrose), which is key. If I’m going to hit a gym 3-5x/week, it needs to be close. Houston has so many amazing gyms, but since I work from home, getting into a routine near my apartment is a must.
SPENGA workouts are broken down into 20-minute segments, which I find easier to push through.
The first is 20-minutes of spin. In an effort to be fully transparent, I will say it’s not your typical spin class. Personally, I have no rhythm, so when spin instructors try to get you to tap back and pedal to the beat, I get lost. I spend more time trying to choreograph my spin moves and not fall off the bike, that I’m not usually putting my best cardio effort in. You can still do that here, but it’s more about hitting zones, and for those who love tangible goals and numbers related to your workout and watts, this is you.
One of the reasons I started going to SPENGA is because of the spin. Cardio is an integral part of my workout routine, but with 10+ knee surgeries, running in the “tread and shred” type classes was taking a serious toll on my knees. I still miss running, even though I’m not a good runner, but I know spin is helping the longevity of my knees. (Also, I’m not giving up running, just changing things up.)
The next 20-minutes is strength. Y’all, this is no joke. The deal with these 20-minute intervals is that you have to get all your reps in, right in a row, with barely any breaks. It’s not your typical, do 12 and then rest and repeat for 4 sets. This is: here’s the move, pick up a weight, do it for 30-60 seconds, take a 10 second break and do it again. And again. And again. I’m not used to doing so many uninterrupted reps, so it’s taken a while to painfully realize I need to use lighter weights than normal. I know I can use 15lbs for a dumbbell curl, but doing it one million times in 3 minutes is more like 10lbs. Seriously.
The last 20-minutes is yoga. If you think this is finally the end and you can coast through, you’re wrong. I was of the belief yoga wasn’t that hard, but again, this is no joke. As I said in my first impression SPENGA blog (linked up top), I don’t want to do yoga enough to commit 60-minutes of my day or have an entirely new gym membership, so this is perfect for me.
Some days it’s more yoga and warrior pose type stuff that confuses me, and some days it feels more like an extended and well-needed stretch and hold. There are people to the left of me that have likely practiced yoga in Bali under some famous master and there are some (like me) who barely know what a chair pose is. (I’ve found a list of yoga poses to help us all.)
Overall, I enjoy SPENGA. It’s hard, I sweat a lot and the friends I’ve brought have all loved it.
SPENGA doesn’t offer FREE classes, however if you call to schedule and mention me (Jayme or The Blonde Side), you’ll get a FREE class (call 713.588.2315) at the Montrose or The Woodlands locations only.
This is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing all the amazing things I love about living in Montrose area, including this new Montrose gym that is kicking my butt on the daily! I can get a nice dog walk in, my favorite morning coffee and my gym, all without having to leave Montrose.
I have lived in these luxury Montrose apartments for about 8 months and am loving everything about this community, especially being so close to so many fun things like these Montrose wall murals. If you’re looking for a new luxury apartment in Montrose, be sure to visit Encore Montrose and mention me (Jayme or The Blonde Side) for an extra incentive. Oh, and ask for the Champagne Tour!
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.
If you’ve followed me on social media or this blog for a while, you know fitness is one of the things I focus most on. I love sharing workout tips, my favorite athleisure brands and of course the reasons why I love Orangetheory Fitness Houston (OTF).
While I try to hit OTF 3x a week, that still leaves 4 days, that’s why when I’m apartment hunting, the apartment gym is a key thing I look for, and Encore Montrose hit the nail on the head with their gym setup. They have a full gym on the first floor with all the cardio machines and free weights you’d ever need and have a private spin and pilates studio located on the second floor.
With that said, I know finding the motivation and a workout you’ll actually do isn’t as easy as all the bloggers make it sound. As someone who travels a lot and finds herself trying to get a good workout in on the road, I’ve narrowed down a few workout tips and tricks to share.
Sometimes I head down to the apartment gym and give myself a quick goal – whether that’s 30 minutes in the gym and I can choose what I do on the spot or that’s 2-miles on the treadmill plus 2 sets of 3 arm exercises. For me personally, my goal is usually just movement. I’m not all about pre-workout shakes or having to hit a specific calorie burn on my Apple watch, but I realize it’s different for everyone.
4 Easy-To-Follow Workouts You Can Do At Home:
Fitness Blender – No Equipment Workout– No equipment workouts are usually my favorite, especially when I’m short on time. You don’t have to waste time gathering equipment or waiting for someone to finish their set, plus these are pretty easy to do in a small hotel room or in my own apartment. Time: 20 minutes (and don’t forget to stretch)
Nike Training ClubApp– I wrote about this app back in 2013, so clearly I’m a big fan. I love how easy it is to use – you can search based on muscle group (i.e. core, back and glutes) as well as time, which is more than ideal when I only have 15 minutes to get a workout in. They go over all the exercises and show proper technique, provide motivation (“You got this!”) along the way and you can even listen to your own music during the workout while they count you down through each move. Time: varies
Kayla Itsines–Everyone’s heard of Kayla before as she has taken over the Internet by storm for a few years and for good reason. There are a lot of workouts you can find from her, like the 7-minute YouTube one linked above, following her YouTube channel, following her on Instagram or buying her guide. She is well respected in the industry and has a workout for pretty much everything. Time: 7 minutes (and many others)
Pamela RF – Best 20 Minute Workout at Home– Again, all you need is a yoga mat (and that’s based on personal preference), and it’s a quick burst of HIIT that’ll be a good way to get in a fast workout and get those endorphins pumping. Time: 20 minutes
3 other pro tips when it comes to working out at home:
Take a look around. Encore Montrose offers interactive fitness classes in the pilates and spin studio. You may not even need an app or extra motivation – ask someone in the leasing office (same holds true if you’re in a hotel and don’t know how to use the apps they have provided) and get started. Many hotels I’ve visited lately even have Peloton bikes and subscriptions set up for your use!
Google is your best friend. If I want a quick leg workout, I type that in and usually have pretty good luck finding a YouTube video specializing in that specifically. It won’t always work, but it’s worth a shot!
I follow a lot of fit-related Instagram accounts. Many times they have captions with a quick run through of a workout or even videos showcasing a 10-minute sequence. I simply have a folder titled “Workouts” and hit save for future use.
This blog post is part of a sponsored series with Encore Montrose, sharing what I love about this eclectic Houston neighborhood and particularly my spacious apartment community, which includes the gym. These Montrose luxury apartments are offering some amazing leasing specials on all their floor plans, a few weeks free rent, so hurry in for a tour! If you stop by for a tour shoot me a note and be sure to tell them Jayme (or The Blonde Side) sent you! The address is 4508 Graustark Street, located right next to Black Hole Coffee.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/EncoreMontroseGym.jpg10801616Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2019-03-26 10:10:252019-05-08 20:42:45Easy Workout Tips and Links for Apartment Workouts
I’m not one that’s all into the New Year/New Me concept, but I do love the fresh start of a brand-new year. Whether you have goals to be a more patient and tolerant person (yes, those are at the top of my list) or want to lose a few pounds or create a healthier lifestyle, the start of a New Year (or even month or week) is a great reason to get motivated.
I love the science-based HIIT workouts at OTF, and I love the coaches who also push me when I think I’ve completely emptied my tank, but I also love the amount of locations. In Houston alone there are 13+ and more coming and within two miles of my Montrose apartment, there is West University (my usual location), Bellaire (been a few times) and the brand-new Midtown studio, which is the newest location inside the loop.
Having multiple locations helps me for various reasons. Depending where I’m working
OTF: Midtown Studio Now Open
for the day (i.e. a coffee shop or business meeting), I can easily schedule a class on the app at any of the locations and go there. If one of the studios is full for the 3p class, odds are other studios may have openings, so I don’t get a “pass” for skipping the gym that day. I have a few friends that also go to OTF, so if they want to work out (two of them go to Midtown), I can take a class with them and grab coffee or happy hour before or after. I’ve found it’s usually helpful to workout with a buddy. Also, when I’m traveling, there are OTF studios pretty much everywhere, so it helps me stay in a routine.
Reasons To Check Out Midtown OTF:
The Midtown are is very pedestrian friendly and accessible for walking/biking, especially if you live in one of the nearby apartments! Plus it’s in an area with lots of great coffee shops and restaurants, perfect if you’re like me and want to catch up with friends after working out together.
The Midtown studio is one of the largest OTF studios in Houston so you’ve got plenty of room to do your burpees and jump squats, plus the studio is configured in one big square making it super easy to switch between stations!
Coaches Sarah, Michael, Macy and Courtney are super high energy and make the workouts fun.
Also, if you’ve never tried OTF, your first class is FREE. And yes, it helps if you drop my name when you sign up at the studio. If you’re in Houston and want to try it out together, drop me a note and let’s see if our schedules match up.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/46510881_253676388622676_3867878849052147712_n.jpg960720Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2019-02-06 07:19:102019-09-10 12:48:51OTF Midtown: Now Open
Houston’s original premium cycling studio rides into new downtown digs
With temperatures already well into sweltering summertime numbers, the popular and next-generation indoor cycling studio RYDE has rolled into downtown at the perfect time for locals looking for a premium, air-conditioned spin studio.
The new RYDE location is the only dedicated indoor cycling studio in the downtown central business district. The street-front contemporary studio is located on the corner of Milam and Rusk, and is a visually appealing, not to mention functional, addition to the area. It was designed by Rottet Studio (the firm that just completed a recent project at nearby Hotel Alessandra), and is located in the historic Esperson Building. Houstonians are already lining up for a sweat session with the brand’s highly-skilled instructors, who are known for blasting out orders alongside exhilarating and heart-pumping beats.
The studio boasts top-of-the-line fitness equipment, meticulously sequenced workouts with the bumping beats, carefully curated luxury bath products and Dyson hair dryers, and even branded collar stays for men.
As with RYDE River Oaks, RYDE Downtown will feature a 45-minute, full-body workout designed to challenge the body and relax the mind. Those new to indoor cycling should check out RYDE 101 introductory sessions focusing on the basics and proper form, and then try more advanced classes.
RYDE boasts Schwinn Carbon Blue bikes and a proprietary myRYDE performance tracking and workout analysis system, for tracking results. Cyclists’ performance data is collected from their bike every few milliseconds and delivered in a private email after class, specifically tailored to their age, gender, and weight. And to kick start some friendly competition, there are online leaderboards.
“Three years ago this month, we unveiled our River Oaks area flagship and a concept built around providing unrivaled ambience, technology and community,” said co-founder Andrew Pappas in a statement. “With RYDE Downtown, we’re further refining our brand while adding a much needed fitness component to the CBD’s retail landscape, targeting both the daytime workforce and rapidly expanding residential and weekend populations.”
This article originally ran in the City Life section of CultureMap Houston. Click here to see the original article.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/275270_original.jpg9001200Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2018-05-20 10:45:312018-06-04 18:29:13RYDE Now in Downtown Houston
If you have commitment issues or FOMO when it comes to finding that perfect place to sweat, burn, tone, and tighten, be sure to check out these hot spots that promise a sweat-inducing workout and deliver results, all while letting you give them a trial run.
With 14 studios in Houston and six more set to open this year, this 60-minute high-intensity interval-based workout is equal parts cardio and strength training, incorporating treadmills, rowing machines, and a strength floor with free weights, TRX straps and abdominal equipment. Designed for all fitness levels, clients wear a heart-rate monitor during class striving to keep their heart rates in the target zones throughout the class.
First class: Free
Pricing: Membership and package options range from $7/session for unlimited monthly training to $28 for a drop-in session
SWEAT stands for Specialized Weight Endurance Athletic Training, with 1000 representing the number of calories burned in a groundbreaking full-body one-hour workout. SWEAT 1000 integrates components of interval training, functional training, core stability work, athletic, and agility training into a dynamic, action-packed class that is different every single time. The studio is outfitted with high-end equipment including world-class FreeMotion Incline Trainers, which are capable of an incline up to 30 degrees. The fitness regimen is intense enough for the most extreme fitness enthusiasts with enough variance to cater to beginners.
Offering 30-minute HIIT/ Quick Fit classes utilizing a variety of dumbbells, kettle bells, running, rowing, and more in a typical boot camp style, these workouts are indoors, allowing for year-round classes. EaDo Fitness offers a beginner’s fundamental class, CrossFit classes and also yoga and commits itself to providing a supportive and exciting experience for all members – whether first timers or veterans.
These 50-minute fusion reformer classes will, without out a doubt, kick your butt (and get it in shape while doing so)! The skilled and energetic instructors at Defy will lead you through a sweat inducing routine combining elements of both classical and high intensity Pilates. The best part: workout while jamming out to super fun tunes in an intimate environment.
This all-encompassing facility offers a wide range of classes including circuit training, weight lifting, agility, yoga, barre, kick-boxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, sand fit, hill fit, kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, kids wrestling, kids yoga. Also offered are soccer and volleyball leagues included in the monthly membership fee.
9Round includes everything you need: a full-body workout that’s fast, effective and fun, personal trainers to help you along the way and expert nutritional guidance that’s based on the latest exercise and nutritional science. Perfect for people seeking a unique and flexible environment, the kickboxing themed fitness program incorporates functional, interval, cardiovascular, and circuit training regimens. The best part: no class times – just drop in when you can and get to work for half an hour.
HIP Fitness (High Intensity Pilates) offers a 45-minute workout that works out every muscle in your body using the Megaformer. Exercises are heart-pumping, muscle burning and there is no stopping until your body is shaking. Classes are limited to 10 clients at a time to guarantee every client the attention he or she deserves. HIP Fitness offers a total-body program that combines cardio, strength training and Pilates to burn up to 700 calories in each session. Workouts are intense, low impact, and efficient. Strengthen, tighten, tone and elongate your body quickly and safely through 100s of different exercises.
First class: Mention CultureMap and first class is free
One of the newest and most beautiful gyms in River Oaks now offers more than 70 classes a week — everything from ATC and Metcon to yoga and Pilates with a bit of cycling in between. Cycling variations include Rhythm Ride, a 45-minute indoor studio style cycling experience (think party meets workout) and Performance Ride, a 45-minute indoor cycling ride where HIIT training with climbs, drills and intervals meeting incredible tunes.
First class: Mention CultureMap and first class is free
Led by former MLS player Michael Chabala, SPHERE is a soccer-inspired fitness class designed to connect people on and off the field while using a ball to do more than just score goals. The two most popular classes are SPHERE – the signature non-stop soccer-inspired fitness class designed for all skill levels from beginners to pros that takes place at local parks and indoor soccer venues around Houston and POWA — 30-minutes of interval cardio treadmill routines and sideline strength training that uses the ball to shred your fitness goal and is an exclusive class only offered at the Four Seasons.
First class: Mention CultureMap and first class is free
Pricing: SPHERE: $15/class, $100 monthly or $200 for 3 months unlimited; POWA: $20/class, workout includes complimentary valet, use of steam room, shower, pool and hot tub at Four Seasons Hotel Houston
Not free, but check out these first-timer deals and get ready to sweat:
This next generation indoor cycling experience embodies the essence of invigorating fitness, unparalleled service and maximum burn in a luxurious boutique environment. RYDE is well known in Houston for its exhilarating music and highly skilled and energetic instructors.
If you didn’t know dancing can burn some major calories, meet Dance House Fitness (DHF), which offers some of the most exhilarating and Instagram-worthy stories in a fitness environment. DHF offers 60 and 90-minute classes like dance cardio, choreography, lower body activated, interval training, yoga and more. No dance experience necessary — just positive vibes and a willingness to #werk (or #twerk).
Try this 45-minute indoor cycling class that features high-intensity cardio, muscle-sculpting strength training, and rhythm-based choreography. Created to make fitness fun, inspirational, and community-driven, SoulCycle’s classes are designed to transform both bodies and minds. The combination of world-class instructors, dark candlelit spaces, and high-energy music along with a full-body cardio workout fuels riders to move together in unison to create what they dub the “energy of the pack.”
First class: Texas locations are offering a buy one get one class (two for $30)
RacePace offers interval-based group running classes led by certified running coaches catered to runners of all abilities. The calorie-torching classes are comprised of a variety of speed and hill intervals to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of your training. Regardless of your experience or ability, clients can benefit from the instruction, support and energy that the RacePace coaches and fellow RacePacers provide. Whether you’re a first-time runner or an Olympic miler, this is a good spot to work on your running and fitness goals.
Recently featured on TLC’s My 600-Pound Life, ROW is a high-intensity, interval training studio in West U. Hosting more than 60 classes a week for all fitness levels, classes incorporate the rowing machine (the “erg”), where you’ll be on and off the erg throughout class. All Body is their signature class, which they suggest new clients take first to get a feel for the workout.
First class: 30 Days for $49
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*Pricing above reflects new clients only and varies by studio/location.
This article originally ran in the City Life section of CultureMap Houston. Click here to see the original article.
all three essential elements of fitness: aerobic, strength, and flexibility.
