The Ultimate Guide to Houston’s Best Free Fitness Classes

Courtesy Photo

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.

Orangetheory Fitness

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 1000

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.

First class: Free

Pricing: $30/class (single class), $29/class (5-class pack – $145), $27/class (10-class pack – $275), $25/class (20-class pack – $500), $22/class (50-class pack – $1,100)

EaDo Fitness

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.

First class: Free

Pricing: $99/month (no contract)

Defy Pilates Studio

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.

First two classes: Free

Pricing: Varies, single class is $30

O Athletik

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.

First class: Free

Pricing: $145/month

9Round

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.

First class: Free

Pricing: $79-129/month for unlimited workouts

HIP Fitness

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

Pricing: Pricing varies (one month unlimited passes $195-$265/month)

The Preserve Houston

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

Pricing: Membership fee $229/month

SPHERE

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:

RYDE

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.

First class: $15

Dance House Fitness (DHF) 

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).

First class: $29 for a week of unlimited classes

SoulCycle

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

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.

First class: $10

ROW Studios

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. 

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OTF Heads to The Woodlands

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Orangetheory Fitness Heads to The Woodlands

To all my readers (and friends IRL), add the date October 27th to your calendars because my favorite fitness folks (Orangetheory Fitness, aka OTF) is heading to The Woodlands.

This will be the 13th Orangetheory Fitness studio in the Greater Houston area, and the first studio in The Woodlands.

If you read any of my fitness posts or follow me on Instagram, you already know I’m obsessed with OTF and the high-intensity (not to mention scientifically designed) workouts they offer.

I especially love the rush it gives me knowing if I hit 12 splat points (they have unique lingo, I must admit), my body will continue to burn calories up to 36 hours after my workout. That’s enough to push me past what I think might be my limit for the day just knowing my work at that very moment could prove even further benefits.

The new fitness studio in The Woodlands will feature 34 workout stations and  3,900 square feet, so you’ll have plenty of space to burn those calories before the holidays (like my birthday, just to name one) kick in.

It’s rare for me to workout for 60 minutes and feel like I’m done (i.e. worked out enough already), but after one of these heart-rate based classes, I literally couldn’t go any harder if I tried. I love being able to knock out such an intense workout in 60 minutes a few times a week and then carry on with my day (after a shower, obvi!).

The Woodlands studio will be located at 4747 Research Forest Dr., Suite 445, The Woodlands, TX 77381 in the Cochran’s Crossing Shopping Center.

And if you’ve never been, your first workout is FREE (just mention The Blonde Side).

My fitness hack: I truly think you’ll love it, but with all gyms and fitness studios, I always suggest giving it three tries before you decide against it (but if you decide after one session that you love it, sign up before you talk yourself out of it!). It’s the whole “fish out of water” mentality, and I know it takes me a few times to feel comfortable in a new training environment.

If you want to follow OTF The Woodlands on social media, check them out on Facebook and Instagram.

 

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Orangetheory Fitness Houston: Weight Loss Challenge

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It feels good to be part of a gym again. Though I’m on the road a lot and forced to workout on my own (thanks to apps, motivation I’ve found online and some good tips from the coaches at OTF), it’s nice to have contests and motivation inside the gym. It gives me that extra motivation that I need.

Orangetheory Fitness Houston recently kicked off their newest challenge – a weight loss challenge – on Monday that will last for 6 weeks (October 22).

The requirements are that each participant must work out at the same OTF studio for at least 3 times each week. Each participant weighed in at the beginning of the challenge, and OTF took “before” photos. There will be a mid-point weigh in at 3 weeks and a final weigh in at the end of the 6 weeks where OTF will take pictures of each participant again, providing “before” and “after” photos.

Orangetheory Fitness Houston Regional Head Trainer, Brenda Boyd said, “The Weight Loss Challenge is an excellent opportunity for members to really focus their efforts on losing weight in a healthy way. As coaches, we are here to encourage, motivate and help our members to achieve their goals and improve their overall health. Each time we offer a Weight Loss challenge, it’s always amazing to see how far our members can go in just six weeks.”

Plus, the male and female member at each studio with the highest percentage of body weight lost will each win $500! Not a bad deal.

Though I’m not participating in this challenge, it’s easy as a client/member to see how it’s motivating some of the members around me. I’m seeing them at more classes, I’m seeing them push their efforts past anything I’ve seen in the past 4-6 months, which I think is cool.

Their (Houston) city-wide goal is to have 1,000 members lose six pounds each, totaling 6,000 pounds lost, and to also impact our city’s efforts to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Plus, the Orangetheory Fitness Houston owners will donate $1 for every pound lost to Houston Habitat for Humanity to help fund the organization’s rebuilding efforts. I think that’s just another bonus and motivator!

Have you ever participated in a weight loss challenge or any gym/workout related challenges in the past? Curious to hear what other ones are out there and what your thoughts are. Share any thoughts below – would love to hear them.

Read about my first class at OTF. 

And if you’re in the Houston area and ever want to hit up one of the locations with me, let me know. If it’s your first class, it’s FREE – just mention my name when you sign up because I think I get cool stuff like bonus points and shirts and stuff!

 

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VillaSport Athletic Club and Spa: Grand Opening – Cypress

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Pilates Reformer Studio

I don’t live in the “burbs,” although the recent grand opening I attended almost made me wish I did. VillaSport Athletic Club and Spa just recently opened in Cypress, just outside Houston. It is their 4th location in the United States and the second in our area (The Woodlands was their 2nd ever location, and is extremely popular).

Don’t be confused. Although fitness is a huge part of VillaSport’s concept, they are not a gym. In fact, they don’t use the g-word. Because they are much more than that, focusing not only on health and fitness, but overall wellness, interaction with neighbors and a great escape that makes you feel like you’re miles away.

Here are a few of my highlights from my visit:

After my tour, I understood why they avoid the g-word, although it’s got more fitness

Certainly feels like a 5-star visit

equipment than most any of the gyms I’ve seen before. VillaSport members (because yes, you do have to have a membership) come to work out, interact with others, but they also feel like they’re at a 5-Star Resort. It’s the kind of place you feel like you’re on vacation year-round, but at a fraction of the cost. Plus, if you’re able to take advantage of the 14,6000 square foot cardio and weight floor, it’s pretty good for your health too.

Check out a few amenities that truly make it 5-Star’ish:

  • Pay a little extra to rent a permanent locker and they’ll do your laundry for you!
  • 25-yard indoor lap pool that is kept at 82 degrees
  • NBA regulation basketball court – anyone want to play a game of HORSE?
  • Concierge Service
  • Full service spa (massages, facials, waxing, manicures and pedicures)
  • Poolside cabana and grill (yes, they have alcohol!)

Fitness at VillaSport Cypress:

As far as fitness is concerned, I love the fact they offer 150-200 classes each week – that are no extra charge to members. This means if you need to change up your workout frequently like me, you are all set. They currently have 30-35 instructors, so it’s not hard to find the one that meshes with your sweaty soul and start getting your fitness on. They have five dedicated studios for group exercise and group training, 120+ cardio machines all with personal TVs and internet access and I especially love their Pilates Reformer studio, because that is a killer way to tone and shape and isn’t as hard on your body as other workouts.

They also have two outdoor AstroTurf areas for CrossFit, soccer, speed work and more.

The Spa:

Other than the fact I’ve yet to meet a spa I didn’t like, my favorite thing about this one is that the Spa Director (Sarah) used to run a spa in Maui so they have made every effort to bring that “Aloha touch to Cypress.”

In case you don’t live in the area or aren’t interested in becoming a member, you can still use the spa (though members get “preferred pricing”). As a guest, if you spend $50 or more on spa services, you’ll get access to the club for the entire day. And did I mention they’ll provide complimentary childcare while you’re at the spa (for up to 2 hours)? Pretty nifty, right?

We also included the brand new VillaSport Cypress in our August 5 Things video, so be sure to check it out (and subscribe to The Blonde Side’s YouTube channel while you’re at it!). If a full membership seems like a big commitment, try getting a day pass so you can experience and see if it’s something you (and possibly your family) might enjoy on a more regular basis.

*This was a sponsored post but all content and opinions were my own.

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My First Orangetheory Fitness Class

The Blonde Side’s first Orangetheory Fitness workout in Houston

I’m not afraid to admit that I’ve fallen off the fitness wagon recently. In large part to my recent knee surgery (November) and in large part (and full disclosure) because I’ve gotten lazy and continued to use my surgery as an excuse, even after the doctor cleared me to workout again. (Anyone else ever been guilty of using an injury as an excuse?)

I had heard the craze about Orangetheory Fitness (OTF) for quite some time, but recently decided to give one of their 11 Houston studios a chance.

My past experience with heart rate monitors or any gadgets while working out hasn’t really been my thing. As a former athlete, I know when my body is working hard, when I can keep pushing it and when I need a break. I realize that’s not the same for everyone, but I always wanted my workouts to be pure – without the need for monitoring heart rate and such (though I do know there is an actual science behind those numbers).

Anyways, fast-forward to my experience at OTF (my first few classes have been at the Tanglewood location), and they strapped a heart-rate monitor on me. Charlotte, the instructor, went through everything thoroughly so I truly understood what the zones (and corresponding colors) meant and what I noticed about wearing the monitor and checking the screen was that if it showed that I was in green, it meant I could (and I should!) push harder. My heart rate was showing that I wasn’t working as hard as I could or should be, so it’s nice to get that push, especially on particularly lazy days. Even though I may have felt like I was dying on the treadmill portion, my heart rate monitor shows me that I was just being lazy and looking for more excuses.

I enjoyed my first few classes so much, I signed up for a pack of 30 classes, which I hope to blow through in the next month, SINCE I AM LEAVING FOR HAWAII IN A MONTH. Yes, I’m going back to O’ahu, where I used to live and cannot wait (more on that later).

But in the meantime, I’m going to keep pushing through with OTF and hopefully seeing results and the muscular shape I once took so much pride in. I’m already feeling more challenged than I had working out solo for the past few months, and tracking my colors and zones keeps pushing me through the hour-long classes, making me want to beat my previous numbers and work even harder.

Who wants to try it with me in Houston? I have a few free passes and would love to get in a workout with some of you (possibly followed by brunch afterwards?)! Leave a message below or reach out via social media and lets get our sweat on!

Living at The Millennium Kirby makes it easy to workout  – close to multiple OTF locations, a great on-site gym at the apartment complex and close to Houston’s brand new Levy Park. 

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MA1 Fitness Studio, Q&A with former NFL Player Jonathan Holland

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Jonathan Holland of MA1 Fitness Studio in Memorial City

It seems every corner you turn, there is a new gym (or studio or box or whatever they are called these days) in Houston, but one of the latest (and greatest) I’ve found is MA1 Fitness Studio, located in the Memorial City area. (You can check them out via their FB page.)

I had the chance to speak with one of the gym-owners and trainers (and good friend of mine) Jonathan Holland, and his list of credentials are about as big as his biceps. (Seriously, both are impressive.)

Holland is a Retired NFL player for the Oakland Raiders, but he’s also a health and wellness coach/trainer, NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) certified personal trainer, he is CPR certified, and is currently studying to receive his nutritionist certification. He’s kind of an all around badass, and if I had to describe my perfect trainer, Holland would pretty much fit the bill.

Here’s a look at The Blonde Side’s exclusive interview with Holland: 

The Blonde Side: Does being a former NFL player scare off some clients (do you think you’re all about meaty and hardcore work or are your clients pleasantly surprised?):

Jonathan Holland: I honestly think being a former NFL player has been one of the major benefits to my success thus far as a trainer. It actually tends to attract more potential clients rather than run them off. I think they see it as a plus to have a former professional athlete train them due to the versatility of different methods of training.

The minds (and bodies) behind MA1 Fitness Studio

TBS: Do your consider your gym a “gym?” Some are not studios or crossfit, etc, what does yours fall under?

JH: It’s definitely not a corporate styled gym, nor is it a crossfit or box as the crossfitters like to call it. I would describe our gym as a training facility for those who are looking to get serious about their overall health and wellness while training like an athlete.

TBS: Why did you decide to open up your own gym?

JH: It’s always been a dream of mine to one day open up a gym so when the opportunity arose I hopped on it without hesitation! The opportunity presented itself while I was training at another location. The owner came to me and two of my best friends who were also trainers at the gym, with the idea of opening up another location in the Memorial City area. What’s funny is that my business partners (Anthony James and Lamar Vaughn) and myself had already been thinking about our next move. So when the gym owner told us his vision and what he wanted to do, we automatically hopped on board. Not to take anything away from the trainers that we were working with at the previous gym, but we just had different visions. Our vision was to create an atmosphere where we could train and coach individuals with a more diverse and unique athletic training style no matter what their level of fitness experience would be. I think what sets us apart from other locations is that we treat everyone who walks through our door just like they’re family. It’s one thing to offer your services to people, but it means so much more when you can help to brighter up their day by doing the little things.

TBS: Do you personally have a mantra that you use to stay motivated?

JH: We have a sign that hangs up in the clients changing room that states: “I’m not telling you it’s going to be easy, I’m telling you it’s going to be worth it.” I think that says a lot!

TBS: What type of clientele are you trying to attract?

Don’t let the smiles fool you – these guys mean business!

JH (laughing): It’s like my pastor used to say: “The doors of the church are open!!” The meaning is we welcome all to our gym family. Whether you’re someone who has no experience in the fitness world but you’re looking to get started, someone who may have stopped and needs to hit the restart button, someone who may have health issues and needs help towards getting better, or even if you’re a former or current athletes!!

TBS: Do you offer any first-time free classes?

JH: First-time sessions are always free! We love seeing new faces walk through the door. We recently had our Saturday morning boot campers give us some feedback on the group session and they absolutely love it! “Sucka Free” Saturday boot camps go down each and every Saturday morning @9:30a.m.

As a late note: group training sessions are on Mondays and Wednesdays evening at 6p.m. Tuesdays and Thursday mornings at 6a.m. and as mentioned before on Saturday mornings at 9:30a.m.

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Change Up Your Running Routine

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Photo: Fabletics

Photo: Fabletics

Change it up: 5 Ways to Breathe New Life into Your Running Routine:

Running is one of the most effective exercises for keeping fit, preparing for a competition or losing weight. However, no matter what your goal is, most runners hit a plateau at some point. Or they get injured, like I currently am.

Many people tend to lose steam and give up on their fitness goals once they hit a plateau, but with the right mindset and a few innovative ways to mix it up, you can break free of your plateau (I sound like an inspiring commercial right now, don’t I?)

One of the best motivations for keeping your running routine is changing the running routine. Here are a few things you could do to spruce up your daily run:

  1. Run on a Trail

If you’re typically of the treadmill variety, running on a trail or other places with scenic views will boost your motivation. You get to run without restrictions. You can choose a new direction every day. This rids off of the boredom of having to run the same course on a daily basis. The people, trees, sunshine and other attractions you see along the way will take your attention from the fact that you are running. Therefore, making you run even further. Also, as you run, you can have goals of landmarks that you would like to see before ending your run. As you try this out, make the running more fun by listening to your favorite beats as you do this.

  1. Go Uphill

This one’s tough, I’m not going to lie. This does not necessary mean that you have to find a hill to run on. If you have staircases that are free to run-on, this will do (I’m a big fan of semi-empty parking garages for this). Also, you can try add the inclines on your treadmill. Additionally, running on this type of surface is a great leg training and strengthening exercise. When running uphill, make sure that you run up to the top, then you can recover by walking or jogging your way down. Doing this several times prevents the monotony associated with regular running.

  1. Try Speed Work/Intervals 

    Photo: Fabletics

    Photo: Fabletics

Intervals are where it’s at. If you are accustomed to running easy, this could be the reason why you easily get bored. Feel free to mix intervals into your run. I know you are asking yourself if results will be achieved if you slow down, but I guarantee you that slowing down will not harm your exercise. Simply run at a slower pace than you normally do. Go for about 10 minutes, then run faster than you normally do for about the same amount of time. Alternate the slow run and sprint about 5 to 10 times. This will keep your mind focused on mini goals, rather than the run itself.

  1. Change your look

So this is purely psychological, but you can change your daily run simply by trying a change in your look. You know that feeling you get when you first buy a new pair of running shoes and how excited you are to try them out? You can apply that mentality to your entire outfit. If you’re normally a black-on-black leggings and tank top person, maybe try a bright new color or mesh cutouts (like the fun stuff they have this month at Fabletics) to get excited about running outside. Sometimes all you need is a new perspective.

  1. Incorporate Other Exercises

Adding other strengthening exercises to your running routine is also a great way to spice things up. Run for a while, then, instead of stopping to rest, do some basic exercises like sit-ups or lunges. These exercises take away the monotony or running and at the same time enhancing results for your exercise by challenging new muscles in the middle of your run.

*This post was sponsored by Fabletics. 

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RUN10FEED10 Houston 5k – JOIN ME

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Houston's Run10Feed10 is October 15th, 2016

Houston’s Run10Feed10 is October 15th, 2016

I am so pumped (and slightly nervous) to be planning a 5k with Women’s Health Magazine and Runtastic, but I’m ready to meet this task head-on.

The 5k is still in the planning stages, but here’s what I can tell you: I NEED SIGNUPS! Also, I’ve got the date nailed down and I promise it will be a casual FUN RUN. No crazy times – your dogs and your strollers and your friends who hate running are ALL invited.

This is my fifth year being selected as a Women’s Health Action Hero and something I am incredibly proud of. In the five years this program has been around, we have raised 5 million meals for those in need. Please see below and sign-up and join me – the cost is $28 but with code WHLAMM you’ll get a discount!

WHEN: Saturday, October 15th – 8a.

Location: Houston, TBD (I will mapping out the course, so if you have ideas, let me know!)

To Sign-up: Click here and go to Register Now, then scroll down to RUN YOUR OWN. Then select JOIN A TEAM, select RUN YOUR OWN 5K. You’ll start the registration process and then will again select JOIN EXISTING TEAM and search for THE BLONDE SIDE. Finish registration using discount code WHLAMM.

This is a super fun event and an incredible cause – providing meals to those in need right here in Houston.

If you want to make a quick donation (honestly, even $10 goes A LONG WAY), click here to help support that way.

Interested in donating or are you a business who wants to be involved? Email me ASAP: jayme@theblondeside.com.

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Runtastic Interview

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Run10Feed10 blog post on Runtastic

Run10Feed10 blog post on Runtastic

The Blonde Side was recently interviewed for the Runtastic blog. For those who don’t know about Runtastic, it’s a health and fitness community and is an all-around awesome app, that will help keep you on track.

This interview and blog post was part of our involvement with Women’s Health Magazine as an Action Hero.

Read the blog post:

I am lucky to live in a great community like Houston – one that is an active running community and loves giving back to various charities. RUN 10 FEED 10 has been a perfect match. I have been blessed to be a part of this charity run for the past four years, and have seen how it has impacted children and families right in my own neighborhood.

(Click here to read the rest on the Runtastic blog)

To join the Houston Run10Feed10 event, click here to sign up and use code WHLAMM for a discount. The 5k is Saturday, October 15th.

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Houston Summer Running Tips

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Wings for Life World Run starts in Houston at 6 am Sunday with 34 cities worldwide participating. Photo by Marv Watson for Wings for Life World Run

Wings for Life World Run starts in Houston at 6 am Sunday with 34 cities worldwide participating. Photo by Marv Watson for Wings for Life World Run

Avid runners in the Houston community have likely heard Calum “Cal” Neff’s name before. Neff has a number of running accolades credited to his name. To name just a few, he is the Guinness World Record Holder for Fastest Half Marathon pushing a stroller (which he dominated in Katy for a time of 1:11:27), he came in 23rd overall in the 2016 Houston Marathon, and he won the 2014 North American Wings for Life World Run.

For those who aren’t familiar with the Wings for Life World Run (WFLWR), it is a global run taking place at the exact same time in 34 locations this year across the world. The purpose is to raise funds for research in finding a cure for spinal cord injuries.

As Neff gears up with hopes of adding another title or personal record to his stat card, he is encouraging other runners, of all levels, to join him for the Wings for Life World Run Selfie Run this Sunday, May 8th. Houston’s official timeslot for this virtual groundbreaking Selfie Run is 6 am –  plenty of time for Mother’s Day celebrations and brunch afterwards!

Runners can sign up for free, and run anywhere at their own pace. The Selfie Run, which uses the all-new Wings for Life World Run app, is perfect if you want to train for the big day, set your own course, race at exactly the same time as everyone else worldwide and share the experience with real time results, right down to a virtual Catcher Car. Like all things, running is enjoying new trends to keep it fresh and exciting; this is just the next in a long line of unique races.

“The World Run is my way to help raise awareness and funds for this special cause, and the unique race format keeps my racing interesting too. The ultra-marathon distance on fast roads plays really well into my area of specialty right now as a runner,” Neff shares of his love for the WFLWR.

The Houston heat is here to stay so we asked Neff to share a few tips to keep your running game strong for the Selfie Run and all summer long:

Embrace the heat! High humidity and heat training have a physiological response similar to altitude. At altitude, your body makes more red blood cells to adapt to less oxygen; in heat, your body creates more blood volume (therefore, more red blood cells). So when the cooler weather comes around you have the performance advantage of carrying more oxygen.

Run with others to stay motivated. You will find someone running at Memorial Park at any hour of the day, even when it’s hot.

Scale back your pace and distance. Don’t expect the same performance as in cooler temps and don’t be unmotivated by how you feel. Running in the heat can have the same symptoms of being out of shape but don’t confuse the two.

Gatoritas. Blue Gatorade powder, ice, and water-blend. Ice slushy mixes are proven to be absorbed faster than room-temp or iced water, keeping you cool and hydrated. Use an insulated bottle or flask like the ones you can find from Nathan.

Dawn Patrol. This is a term given to weekend warriors trying to squeeze in adventures before work. It’s still going to be hot at 5 am but at least the sun won’t be beating down on you. We could all use a few more sunrises in our life too.

Cryotherapy. My indoor escape from the heat is the Chilled Cryospa in Katy. This full recovery spa has all the tools to keep your body happy including the cryo tank where you stand for 3 minutes at -220 degrees!

Listen to your body. No different than any other time of year but especially important in the heat. Some days you just don’t have it, don’t fight it. Your heart will thank you later. Pay attention especially if you notice you are not sweating or have chills.

Head inside. Yes, the dreadmill.

Travel. It’s a good time to get away!

Instructions for signing up for the selfie run:

Download the “Selfie Run” app on your iOS or Android mobile device App Store.

Connect with Facebook or create an account.

Sign up for the Selfie Run and set your location for May 8 in Houston.

Log on and run with the world at 6 am.

(Click here for video help to sign up)

This article originally ran on Culture Map. Click here to see the original piece. 

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FREELANCE + SPORTS + TRAVEL + FITNESS
COPYRIGHT 2019, THE BLONDE SIDE
CREATED BY JAYME LAMM