NYC: 3 Things For This Week

Slowly making my way out of hibernation and recovering from NYFW, here are a few places that make venturing outside worth it!

1. Fonda Restaurant

It's pretty hard to find amazing Mexican food, but after discovering Fonda's and their brunch menu - life has never been the same again. For $28.50 (the boozy brunch special) one can order an entree and have unlimited refills for a whole hour and half. If you do end up going, make sure you reserve your table ahead of time and try their freshly made guacamole too!

Get more info here.

2. The Movement

Sweat is sexy and feel-good too. The movement has a variety of energetic and well-rounded classes. My favorites are their Move and CrossFlowX class. And for every person that attends their class, $1 is donated to the National Tumor Society. 

Get more info here.

2. City Bakery

Located a few steps away from The Movement, stop in to try their world famous hot chocolate and homemade marshmallow. Yes, it is a lot of calories so after you're done digesting make sure you march right back into The Movement and burn off those calories.

Get more info here.

Finding Confidence + Strength

A few months ago I ran into an good childhood friend, or better said I made an appointment to see my physical therapist. Eek! That's right ladies, not even I am immune to desk injuries - yes, you read that correctly. Turns out having a weak core and spending the majority of a week behind a desktop can wreck havoc on your body. Of course I could've prevented this. Live and learn right?

Well if you remember this post, then you already know that 2015 is all about treating myself right and getting stronger. In particular, getting my core strong enough to prevent another injury while training for my half marathon (and apparently working desk-side).

My physical therapist recommended pilates and out yoga classes for this. And, to be honest I'd do it all if it weren't for the insane per class rate.

Then I heard about Classpass... You guys, it's life-changing. 

Classpass is a network of boutique fitness classes and by becoming a member you're able to take unlimited classes (three from the same studio). The range and variety of classes is fantastic, there's almost a 100% guarantee you'll come across something you'll fall in love. Every week I find myself trying something new, different, and growing stronger. Luckily for me I was able to do a trial period, and you guys, after falling in love with the process I stayed on as a monthly member. Don't worry, this isn't limited to NYC - Classpass is rapidly expanding and probably headed to a city near you. The only con I can think of is the hefty cancellation fee of $20 if you're unable to cancel prior to 24 hours. 

All images via Nike Women

Mixing up my routine and challenging myself in new ways outside of running has definitely left me feeling beyond fit and more confident. For instance, wearing this on the internet and feeling no regrets. Ahh, the power of sweat my friends.

As for the core-centric classes I'll definitely recommend for those of you in NYC:

Kettlebell Kickboxing

- This kickboxing class is geared towards women and taught in a martial arts studio (pretty cool). The workout is intense, but the instructor is attentive and push you (in a good way) to reach your fitness goals.

R.U.S.H. Total Body Training

- WHOA, take a few of these classes a month and you'll basically have six-pack before summer rears her head! The guys that run this space are attentive and will show modifications if the exercises are a bit too much. Classes are small which is always great.

BFX Barre

- I've never been a fan of Barre because well it's tough. Then I took a class here and loved the all-over body training + studio space. I've definitely become a regular and enjoy sweating it out.

Bikram Yoga SoHo

- My favorite Bikram studio out of all of Manhattan. The classes for once don't feel overcrowded, the space is clean, and the heated room is close to odorless. They even started a 60 minute session for those looking for a quicker practice.

Flex

- Have yet to try, but heard amazing things about the small and attentive classes. Will follow up with a review soon!

For all of these classes you'll definitely feel sore after! If these monthly fitness check-ins are helpful, let me know and I'll be sure to do them consistently going forward. Learn more about Classpass here.

NYC: Staycation Guide

Our chilly east-coast weather gave me a serious case of cabin fever. Instead of going berserk here are a few places that kept me out of hibernation and thankful for these sweet spots.

1. Gagosian Gallery

The Takashi Murakami exhibition may be over, but that shouldn't stop you from exploring the talented roster of artists this gallery puts on display. The gallery is international so check to see if there's an exhibition happening near you here.

Get more info here.

2. Eggshop

Quite possibly the best Bloody Marys and eggs I've had in the LES. Whenever there's room in my budget or it's just one of those days - I make it a point to come here, eat good food, and unwind. OH, and the desserts just kill me every time.

Get more info here.

Photo via Racked.com

3. Mile High Run Club

Can I just say this is the first time I have ever gotten excited to run during winter - because (YAY!) it's indoors. This place just gets me and my needs. There's lots of locker space, the showers are impeccably clean, and each class is led by a coach who wants to see you do your best. If you're looking to switch your routine or give running a go, I highly recommend this spot to get you out of any hibernation funk.

Get more info here.

4. The Bao

St. Marks and delicious eats, just never went hand-in-hand for me. Beer specials and late night pizza slices sound more probable, but then I went to The Bao for dinner - AND - LET - ME - TELL - YOU. The soup dumplings from this place rocked my world like no other.  After devouring all of their soup dumplings, I did a little research and discovered this place has quite the rep (they had a great writeup in the NY Times and other places). The soup dumplings were the perfect thing to warm up on a chilly night.

Get more info here.