The Studio (MDR) Helped Me … Get in Shape for My Wedding

Jennifer Howard knew she wanted to be in the best shape of her life before she walked down the aisle. Here’s how The Studio (MDR) helped this self-proclaimed serial workout person surpass her wildest workout goals.

I started coming to The Studio (MDR) after I got engaged last February. I had heard great things about the workout and I thought it would be perfect timing to try something new to trick my body. I have always been a serial workout person (I’ve done Barre Burn, yoga, hiking, spinning, pilates, and a ton of other gym classes!) but I felt like I was plateauing and needed a change for my big day! I was instantly addicted to Ky’s and Jessi's classes, and after taking classes three times a week for 2 1/2 months, I saw fast results. I even inspired three of my bridesmaids and my fiancé to come to The Studio (MDR)!

In addition to taking classes, I really watched my diet by eliminating wheat six days a week. I also ate a lot of salmon and veggies and -- believe it or not -- FAT! I ate plenty of avocados and cottage cheese for snacks. I would drink a smoothie in the morning for energy and lots of green tea throughout the day. I still had a little wine in the evenings, but I definitely cut that little habit down for the two months leading up to my big day.

I feel like The Studio (MDR) really gave me the mental strength to work out so hard. It is literally the only workout that has pushed me since my basketball and volleyball days in high school. I have never felt stronger or more confident. I am officially hooked. I came back to classes after my honeymoon and I feel like I am even stronger now than I was before the wedding. I am determined to stay this way. Thanks to all of the teachers who kick my ass at The Studio (MDR)!

The Studio (MDR) Tastemaker: Jenny Everhart

Considering The Studio (MDR) is the premiere fitness studio in Los Angeles, it comes as no surprise that it's filled with some pretty spectacular clients. Here's a spotlight on one and a little bit about what she does ... as well as 10 little picks that are rockin' her world right now.

As the director of her husband Tom Everhart's Art studio, and a Venice dweller since 1997, Jenny Everhart knows a thing or two about the hottest spots in the neighborhood. Here are 10 things she’s totally digging right now.

1. Bike Attack. http://www.bikeattack.com/womens-beach-cruiser-bikes

I bike everywhere, which I beyond LOVE, and my friend Ericson at Bike Attack has the coolest rides.

2. Stephanie Hobgood Hair. http://www.stephaniehobgoodhair.com/

I’m styled by friend, Stephanie.

3. Goddess of Skin. http://store.goddessofskin.com/

My favorite products are the Bonifide scrub and Truthful serum

4. Show Me Your Mumu. http://www.showmeyourmumu.com/

These clothes are the most fun to wear, and I adore the Mumu girls!

5. Venice Farmer’s Market. http://www.venicefarmersmarket.com/

I go almost every Friday.

6. Hal’s Bar & Grill. http://www.halsbarandgrill.com/pages/home.php

There’s nothing like a bloody mary for brunch, and all the food is great here.

7. Kreation Juice. http://kreationjuice.com/locations/juicery/abbot_kinney

I’m loving this new spot on Abbot Kinney, and the salmon kale salad is the best!

8. Moon Juice. http://moonjuiceshop.com/

Hands down the best almond milk around.

9. Menotti’s Coffee Shop. http://www.yovenice.com/2013/09/04/townhouse-venice-adds-menottis-coffee-stop-plans-menottis-saloon/

My dearest friend Nicely is opening the raddest new coffee spot on Windward Ave! It's dope!

10. Floral Art. http://www.floralartla.com/

Flowers make you live longer, and these guys are amazing florists on Abbot Kinney!

Student Spotlight: Richard Veilleux

This busy hotel executive walked by The Studio (MDR) countless times. Then he walked in … and got hooked immediately. Here’s how he got in shape and stays so fit, even with a crazy travel schedule.  

My experience at The Studio (MDR) began with the beginner class on April 29, 2012, as I regularly walked by the small studio on my way to the beach and always wondered how it would feel to do a class. After that first session, I knew that this would be transformative, and I purchased 10 classes the following day.  I have always been very active with weekly 2-man beach volleyball games, jogging, biking, hiking, and golfing. When I started working out at The Studio (MDR), I was 160 pounds -- but I often experienced lower back pain, as well as hamstring and sciatic nerve issues. I travel a lot for work and the long flights were not helping me feel strong. As I began to take these classes, what I realized quickly was that even with all the sports I played, my core was nowhere near as strong as I thought it was. Training at The Studio (MDR) significantly increased my core strength as well as my strength overall. I’m so much better at all other sports now, including something as simple as jogging.

As I continued to take classes, my pain started going away. Today I weigh 152 pounds. I am stronger, leaner, and at age 47, I’ve never felt better. As with all exercise, focusing on the right diet is just as critical as working out -- especially when traveling as much as I do. I purchased the FitBit to track my calorie intake and outtake and I’ve continued to take classes regularly when I am not traveling. When traveling, I often view the great YouTube videos to maintain my strength.  An important aspect of The Studio (MDR) is that ALL of the trainers create a wonderful and supportive experience. Frankly, I do not enjoy going to fitness centers and gyms and prefer to participate in sports. However, attending classes at The Studio (MDR) ranks as one of the best fitness experiences I’ve ever had. As challenging as each class is, I continue to look forward to each session and feel great when I walk out those doors. I will continue to attend as many classes as I can as I simply want to continue to feel as good as I feel today. A big thank you to Lisa, Lindsay, Mary, and Jessi for contributing to shaping me up!

10 Fat-Burning Foods Our Trainers Eat Every Day

Want to know what all of the instructors at The Studio (MDR) eat inorder to stay so energized and looking so toned?

Here are some of their faves, which also happen to be nutritionist-approved foods for maintaining a healthy weight.

Steel cut oats. This fiber-filled breakfast staple will help you feel fuller longer, meaning you’ll be more likely to pass on that mid-morning snack (or those pastries on the board room table).

Fresh-pressed ginger with cayenne. Ginger is an amazing immune-booster, which will keep you healthy and able to make it to your workouts even when the rest of your family and friends start to sniffle. And cayenne pepper is a known metabolism booster.

Walnuts. Loaded with omega-3s and protein, this healthy snack can be eaten on its own or tossed into salads or on top of that steel cut oatmeal.

Quinoa. Instead of rice, try this ancient grain, which is loaded with protein and fiber and has a delicious nutty flavor. Mix in some fruit and have it for breakfast or a snack, or add in some chopped veggies and a protein for an easy lunch or dinner that can be eaten hot or cold.

Lentil soup. Lentils pack a double-whammy of fiber and protein (not to mention a ton of trace minerals and vitamins), so a soup loaded with these little powerhouses is going to rev your metabolism and keep you in great health.

Maca powder. Maca is an ancient Peruvian superfood used by indigenous Andean societies as a source of nourishment and healing for thousands of years. (Peruvian folklores tell of maca being used by warriors to increase their strength and endurance.) These days, you can buy it in powdered form and add it to your morning smoothie!

Chia seeds. Move over, kale: Chia seeds are the new darling of the food world, according to nutritionists. These little seeds are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fatty acids -- a combo that’ll help you feel energized, full, and fabulous. Add a spoonful to water for a satiating snack.

Flax seeds. Want to keep your digestion rocking and bloating at bay? Sprinkle a teaspoon or two of freshly-ground flax seeds on top of your oatmeal or salad for an easy, healthy upgrade.

Avocados. They’re filled with healthy fats that rev the metabolism and keep you satiated. They’re loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. They taste AMAZING. And, California makes the world’s best avocados. Need we say more?

Salmon. This lean protein is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to do everything from boost immunity and mood to help keep weight in check.

A Peek Inside Mary's Fridge

All of us adore Mary Miller’s high-energy classes, and we’re seriously inspired by those amazing muscles that prove how hard she works out! Here's a look at the healthy grub Mary keeps on hand to look so amazing.

Working out is probably one of my favorite things to do, so I really try to maintain a (somewhat) healthy diet to enjoy the benefits of taking classes at The Studio (MDR) three to four times a week. When I eat better, I feel better -- but obviously I am only human, so I try to keep everything in moderation.

For breakfast I always have eggs handy. They are a quick, easy, warm meal that always leaves me satisfied. I love every type of fruit, but my favorites are blueberries, bananas, and grapefruit … I might have a slight blueberry obsession, which isn't a bad thing because they are loaded with antioxidants!

For lunch or dinner, I always have fresh fish, chicken, veggies, and/or stuff to make a yummy salad.  I don't eat red meat, so fish/chicken is a good source of protein for me. Sometimes that can get a little boring, so I always try and spice things up with some sliced avocado and salsa. Actually, I put salsa on EVERYTHING. It’s the Mexican in me (and my favorite!), but on top of that it’s also low in calories!

For a delicious snack, I love toasting a slice of Ezekial bread and putting almond butter, sliced bananas, and a drizzle of honey on it—so satisfying!

For dessert, I try and have a sweet fruit, like berries or watermelon, but if I am really craving it, I have a few (okay maybe more then a few) Trader Joe's sea salt dark chocolate covered almonds. They are heaven in your mouth. LOVE.

Now to the beverages: I used to have a diet coke addiction, and I realized a few years ago that I needed to break that bad habit. Now, my favorite beverage is sparkling water. I think Perrier is the best, as it has the most fizz. I also always have almond milk, coconut water, rosé wine, and a little champagne for weekend fun stocked in my fridge. I live with my older brother, so the beer is not mine, I promise!

How to use our Wait List

We understand that it can be disconcerting to see classes that are completely full. Please don't forget that we have a VERY effective wait list, and if you put yourself on it, you will likely get into the class.

If you are unfamiliar with how the wait list works, here is the 411:

1. Make sure you are opted in for emails in order to be properly notified. 
2. In order to put yourself on the wait list, sign up regularly as if you were signing up for class.
3. If you have made it into a class from the wait list due to cancels from other clients, you will be notified at least 12 hours before the start time of the class via email. If you provide us with your cell phone service provider you can also receive notifications via texts.
4. To avoid any late cancel fees, remove yourself from wait lists you don't want BEFORE being added to the class.
5. If you have not been notified 12 hours before the start time of the class, you still have an opportunity to make it into a class. If you check online between the 12 hour mark and the class start time, you will see spaces open up online due to late cancels. You can sign up for those spots directly as the wait list will be closed.
6. And you can always take a chance by walking into a class last minute! You never know if there will be no shows or late cancels that occur right before the class starts. We can't promise this will always be the case but it happens more times than not. 

We want you to get into classes and, trust us, this method really does work!

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns by contacting the front desk at 424 228 4265 or emailing us at frontdesk@thestudiomdr.com

A Peek Inside ... Lindsay’s Fridge

Before Lindsay Hallam was a teacher at The Studio (MDR), she was a student who lost 50 pounds by sticking to regular workouts and cleaning up her diet. Here’s a look at the healthy grub she keeps on hand to maintain her weight.

The hardest part about losing weight for me in the past was always diet, because I LOVE FOOD so much. I've found that I stick to eating well due to staples that I always have on hand. The first is a pot of veggie chili that I make on Sunday for the week. It's cheap to make and easy to heat up when I'm famished or don't feel like cooking. Eggs, Ezekial bread, and various fresh seasonal fruit are always in my fridge for breakfast. Lunch and dinner are some combination of Trader Joe's microwaveable Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or baby bok choy with some kind of protein, like fish. Of course, I also keep plenty of vegetables on hand, such as peppers, onions, and mushrooms, which I like to throw on the grill in the summer. I always have a few bags of organic spinach, which I usually sneak into my diet by blending in my protein shakes -- you can't even taste it.

Speaking of beverages, I always have coconut water and wine in my fridge. I use one to hydrate when I go a little overboard on the other (just kidding!). The jar in the upper right corner is raw cashews soaking in water. I make cashew milk by blending soaked cashews with water, dates, vanilla bean, sea salt, and cinnamon.

I will admit this is the cleanest my fridge has ever looked! Normally it's a little more disorganized and chaotic, but it always contains the same healthy staples.

Student Spotlight: Sara Gross

When this mom of twins had her C-section, her doctor told her she’d never seen a stronger core. Check out Sara’s story now. Plus, learn how to win a two-month regimen of Macro-E, the skin care company Sara works with.

My sister took me to my first Pilates Plus class in West Hollywood in 2005. Sebastian was teaching that day and I was instantly hooked. However, in 2008 I moved to the Marina and I stopped going -- the commute was just too much. I still did cardio 5 days a week, but I really missed the strength I felt from going to Pilates. Then a girlfriend told me about The Studio (MDR).

I loved how I felt after my first workout. Even though I was technically in shape, I was amazed at how challenging I still found the classes. Don’t get me wrong, there were times I wanted to give up (plank to pike is NOT my friend). But the teachers kept pushing me to keep going. When I could get through the 75-minute class without stopping, I had never felt better about myself. I was able to get in the best shape of my life for my wedding in November 2011, and then I promptly got pregnant with twins. Thankfully, that's right when the MegaMamas class launched and I -- with Jessi's amazing support -- was able to stay in shape throughout my pregnancy. My doctor actually told me the reason I was able to go full term was because of what great shape I was in. In fact, when she did my c-section, she said she had never seen a stronger core. It was my proudest moment (for various reasons).

I took a break for six months after the twins arrived. My first class back, I was so frustrated because I couldn't do many of the things I used to be able to do. But I realized that it would take time to get back to where I was, but to trust that I would get there. I am still working on it, and I am committed to squeezing class in whenever I can. Two weeks ago I was able to make it through a class without stopping, and I know it's just going to keep getting better.

The studio has given me confidence in my body and my personal life that I never knew I could have. About two months ago, I partnered with the doctors behind Proactive in their anti-aging skin care line that is expanding all over the country. And I can give away a full two-month regimen of Macro-E, which has been featured in Allure, People, O Magazine, and more, to one lucky Studio (MDR) client. For more info, contact me at saramegangross@gmail.com. The first two people to e-mail me will win!

The Studio (MDR) Tastemaker: Cammy Lynn Hebert

Considering The Studio (MDR) is the premiere fitness studio in Los Angeles, it comes as no surprise that it’s filled with some pretty spectacular clients. Here’s a spotlight on one and a little bit about what she does … as well as 7 little picks that are rockin’ her world right now.

Cammy Lynn Hebert has been taking classes at The Studio (MDR) for almost a year now, and is a self-proclaimed addict. “Before our photo shoots, I am at The Studio (MDR) three times a week to get in top-top shape.”

Cammy owns Show Me Your Mumu, a clothing company she started with her partner and best friend, Cologne. “We launched the line almost four years ago to give girls and women more comfortable, affordable, and travel-able (is that a word? It is in mumuland!) items in their closet. We offer pieces that can easily be worn day to night and go great over your bikini or paired with heels. We are all about versatility and things that are easy to travel with.”

So, what’s Cammy digging right now?

1. My beloved Neshama project hamsa necklace. It's dainty, beautiful, and your purchase supports amazing projects in Africa, such as Innovation Africa and Zena Mountain Farm. http://www.theneshamaproject.com/

2. My new skinny Koral Jeans. I am addicted to Koral jeans. They are super-slimming and comfortable! The Studio (MDR) + Koral jeans = a great booty! http://www.korallosangeles.com/

3. "And Then I Found You" by Patti Henry. This was my summer beach read that I absolutely loved. http://www.patticallahanhenry.com/books/and_then_i_found_you.asp

4. I can't live without my fave sunnies by Crap: "The Diamond Brunch" shades in black. They’re affordable, chic, and great for hiding tired eyes. http://www.crapeyewear.com/collections/thediamondbrunch

5. I’m loving this new doggy collar for my precious pooch, Mick. It’s made from vintage fabrics and all of the collars in the line are awesome. Mick is feeling very cool walking down Abbot Kinney in his "Orange Windmill" collar. Plus, each purchase affords a dog in Puerto Rico one full vaccination. http://www.satoscollars.com/

6. Stemage is my go-to skin care brand. It’s just three simple steps, easy to travel with, and you see IMMEDIATE results. Great for all of my concerns -- anti-aging, acne control, and sunspots. https://www.stemageskincare.com/?gclid=CK_e9qeG6rgCFc57QgodQxcAqA

7. My new Peta Tunic from Mumu. I love the bright color and how easily I can "throw n go" with this piece. It folds into nothing in my purse! Great for the beach and love it with light cutoffs. http://www.showmeyourmumu.com/shop/peta-tunic-blood-orange-chiffon/

A Love Note from Lisa

The Studio (MDR)’s leading lady dishes about why she’s so excited for fall.

I know what I’m about to say is bittersweet, but here goes: Summer is almost over. Can you believe it?! But let's not put the sunny season to rest just yet (though I have to admit, I can't wait to pull those fall boots out of my closet!). Here at The Studio (MDR), we have all been working overtime to enjoy our swimsuit bodies -- some are newly created and some are properly being preserved. I get so many emails every single day about mindsets changing, triceps developing, and hearts filling with love and light. Whatever your journey has been, I want you to know that you should be darn proud of what you are doing, because it can be quite difficult to constantly motivate yourself to work out, eat properly, and to cherish the life that YOU create for yourself every single day.

As human beings, we are free to do what we want, when we want, and how we want -- and I know I certainly have to remind myself of this constantly. Otherwise, it can be easy to get trapped in the monotony of an everyday routine. I try to wake up every morning remembering that I have unlimited choices to make, and in making those choices to move my body, eat right, spend time with the people I love (including my sweet little furry people), I am creating the kind of life I want to live. How lucky are we that we ALL have these choices? We all have the ability to choose something new -- something that feeds our souls -- every minute of every day!

So as the season shifts and fall quickly approaches, let’s take a moment to remind ourselves of our greatest gift -- the fact that we open our eyes every day and have the opportunity to make decisions that’ll affect how we live our lives. It is such a gift and a privilege to come to The Studio (MDR) every day, where I get to see all of you work out with the best teachers there are in a healthy and safe community that is The Studio (MDR).  Darn, I feel so blessed and I love it!

With so much gratitude and excitement for what fall is going to bring,

Lisa

A Love Note from Lisa

The Studio (MDR)’s leading lady dishes on why she loves this community so much, and how she embraces (and implements!) your honest feedback.

Summer has officially arrived and it's gorgeous outside. We’re talking serious beach weather here in SoCal, and seriously sunny spirits here at The Studio (MDR).

I’m feeling especially happy this month, as it’s been exactly two and a half years since we opened our doors. We gave birth to this studio in January 2011, and as most of you know, we have grown so much in such a short amount of time. I believe this is all due to the loyalty and honesty -- yes, honesty -- of all of you, our amazing clients.

So many of you started with us at the beginning, and I am so lucky that you’ve continued to walk through our doors with smiles on your faces. Not only that, but I’m so grateful to all of you who promote The Studio (MDR) with so much love, inspiring your family and friends to try a class. What I respect and love about this community is that when you want something to change, you tell me about it. You give me your honest thoughts (the good and the bad!), which helps me and the rest of the team to make things even better.

My goal was to create a unique and amazing space for transformation; your honest feedback helps me continue to do that. I want to thank you for that. After all, honesty is so important in every area of our lives ... at home, at work, with family and friends, and most of all with ourselves. I’m so grateful to those of you who’ve been brave enough to come to me with your feedback, and also to those of you who share your life stories with me. I’m thinking of so many of you right now who’ve told me about how you’ve risen up from something difficult, and how The Studio (MDR) has helped you do so. It’s those stories that are the ultimate in heartwarming satisfaction for me. It’s what continues to make me so proud of what we’ve all built over these last two and a half years.

So thank you, from the bottom of my heart, and please keep the love and honesty flowing always.

Student Spotlight: Nicole Y

Not only has The Studio (MDR) helped one student tone up and lose weight, but taking classes has also helped her heal a chronic autoimmune disease. Here is Nicole’s amazing story. On May 8, 2012, I walked into Studio MDR not knowing what the future would bring. Only 15 months earlier I had been diagnosed with a chronic autoimmune disease known as Sarcoidosis. By the time I reached The Studio (MDR), I had been cut, poked, prodded, and treated with a nasty drug that crushed my immune system, leaving me homebound for many months. Meanwhile, life had marched on and I had a high school reunion coming up in 8 weeks. I was in panic mode. I was soft and squishy – not overweight, but not slim, either.

With the careful instruction of Lindsay and Jessi, I am a completely new person.  My disease is in remission, and I only experience occasional flare-ups -- but that’s far better than I was when I walked into The Studio (MDR) more than a year ago.  In addition to that, I have body confidence that I’ve never had before.  The cellulite on my back thighs is melting away class by class, and best of all, my energy and endurance levels have improved drastically, helping me in every aspect of my life.

Now, I can run farther and faster, jump higher, work harder, and even read faster. This studio has transformed me into a mega-former pilates regular. I’ve always thought of gyms as a big drag. I belonged to a bunch over the years, and I’ve never been excited to exercise. Now, I can’t wait to work out! Thank you so much to The Studio (MDR) and to Lisa, Lindsay, Jessi, Mary, and Natalya. You’ve all been key forces in helping me to regain my quality of life.

Get Younger, Prettier Skin – Now!

We're giving away a FREE Signature Facial w/ Alexandra Wagner! For a chance to win, post a photo with the hashtag #TheStudioMDR on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter! It's that simple! :)

Alexandra Wagner is an aesthetician and owner of Alexandra Wagner Skin Care in Santa Monica. She also just gave The Studio (MDR) owner Lisa Hirsch one of the best facials of her life! We asked Alexandra for her best skin care secrets. Keep reading to find out what to do for your best complexion ever…

What are your top 3 skin care tips that you believe can transform a woman's skin?

1. We have to get rid of the dull skin that sits on the surface to transform the tone and texture of our beautiful faces. The way to do this is to exfoliate your skin two times per week (for normal to oily skin) and three times a week (for drier skin). Using a home peel once a week after a gentle scrub will transform a dull complexion and give it a healthier glow. Apply a brightening and/or hydrating mask after exfoliation, and leave it on for 10 minutes. Follow that with your favorite serum and moisturizer, and you are good to go! (And of course, don't forget your SPF 30-50 if it’s daytime.)

2. Exercise more, stress less, eat clean, and stay hydrated. Exercise brings blood to the surface of our skin, increases circulation, and leaves us with a healthy glow.  We wear stress on our face and people can see it. Making personal time for ourselves to recharge will show in our skin. Of course, you know that the healthier you eat, the better you’ll feel and the better your skin will look and feel, too. Finally, staying hydrated keeps your skin plump.

3. Wear your sunscreen. Sun ages skin -- period. Reapply sunscreen every 1 ½ to 2 hours, and find a great hat to wear when you are outside having fun in the sun.

What are the things you tell women that surprise them?

1. I tell my clients that less is more. Most of us actually need to simplify our skin care routines. So many of my clients use too many products, thinking they need to use all of the latest anti-aging serums and creams. But too many products can actually create an imbalance in your skin.

2. You gotta, gotta, GOTTA exfoliate! And you’ve got to do this at least two times a week. It’s the only way to get that dead skin off the surface, and that dead skin not only makes your complexion look dull, but it also traps oils and bacteria under the skin, which leads to breakouts and large pores.

3. Sugar can wreak havoc on your skin! For some, just laying off the sugar for one month will help transform your skin’s overall balance.

What are your favorite skin care gadgets? Are there any that you think are well worth the money?

There are so many gadgets on the market these days, and the one I think is the best investment is the Nu Face microcurrent machine. We do professional microcurrent treatments, which lift, tone, sculpt, and help to reduce puffiness. This gadget is great to use in between professional treatments. It’s a wonderful treatment in combination with Botox or other fillers, as it sends energy and simulates cells in the areas of the face where botox has stopped muscle movement.

I think the Clarisonic brush is great to clean the skin, but it can sometimes create dryness and/or breakouts if overused. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that the brushes on this machine (and similar ones) hold bacteria. So diligence keeping the brush clean is really important.

How often should we get facials, and why?

Taking care of your skin and working out are similar in this sense: Maintenance and consistency will give you the best results!

For an optimal skin care regimen that has the best potential to transform your skin, I recommend getting a facial every 4-5 weeks. But everyone has a time and financial budget. If you can’t do every month, try to get a facial every two or three months, and be diligent about an excellent at-home skin care regimen. Remember, skin care is not just for the results you see today. It’s about giving yourself the best shot at aging gracefully.

Do you have any skin care tips for our "MegaMen?” What do men need to know and do about their skin?

We all know men do less to maintain their skin than women. Shaving exfoliates the bottom half of the face, but the top half needs an exfoliation once a week (or at least every 2 weeks). While it can be tough to talk a man into an involved skin care routine, simply washing the face at night, using a good serum, and being diligent about wearing SPF during the day usually does the trick for most men. We actually have a lot of male clients at Alexandra Wagner Skin Care. Some come in for a facial once a month, others come in every six months. Even once a year will do a man’s complexion good! But the key is to maintain your skin, even if you keep that maintenance simple. For those men looking for a bit more transformation, I’ve seen microdermabrasion work wonders. After just one treatment, a lot of men can see a major difference in the overall texture and smoothness of their skin.

Lisa’s Faves: Pet Project

Everyone knows Willie Meatball Nelson, Lisa Hirsch’s adorable dog who helped her open The Studio (MDR) by showing her never-ending love and support. Well, Willie now has a sister, Mabel. Here are some of Lisa’s favorite pet accessories. Time to go shopping for your own furry friend?!

Click on the photos below to go directly to the product websites.

A Love Note from Lisa

The Studio (MDR)’s leading lady dishes on that inevitable annoyance called stress -- and how she uses it as a springboard that propels her toward her best self.

Sometimes amidst all the excitement of a growing and beautiful studio, press events, Paleta juice deliveries, purchasing tank tops, and making sure my clients are taken care of, I forget to breathe.

I am certain I am not alone in trying to remember to do something so simple. There's a good chance your family is pulling you in all directions, you are trying to make time for dates because you really do want a life, walking the dog has to happen whether you feel like it or not ... oh, and don't forget the sunscreen, eating healthy, and going to class. Sometimes it feels like the craziness won’t end.

From my own experience, I’ve learned I can either let the stress pull me down and zap my energy, or I can use it as a springboard to propel me toward being my best self. Truth be told, they both take the same amount of energy.

I once heard someone say that we cannot do everything on our "lists" because those lists are constantly evolving. In order to zap stress, I think the key is learning to be okay with not getting through everything. It's harnessing that energy and using it in other ways -- ways that serve you better. And it's wearing sunscreen as often as you can remember.

Summer will be here before we know it. So, despite all the stress-inducing craziness (and even the stress-inducing excitement that comes when we cram all kinds of fun into our lives!), let's take a moment and take a big collective breath and smile … life is good.

Big love,

Lisa

Transformer of the Month: Brian Gray

This time last year, Brian Gray weighed 250 pounds. Today? His nieces and godchildren tell him, "Whoa! You're skinny now!" Here's Brian's story.

What was your starting point, and how did you find The Studio (MDR)?

I started at The Studio (MDR) in July of 2012. At the time, I was probably around 250 pounds. I had just lost 20 pounds from changing my diet, going to the gym regularly, and doing some light running, but I felt I had hit a wall and I wanted to add something to my workout routine. My friend Beata Czechowski told me about the Studio (MDR) and introduced me to Lindsay. So after going on YouTube and looking up videos of people doing "Pilates" on a mat, I figured, I can do this. Mind you, I didn't see anything on YouTube about using a reformer. So Lindsay invited me to one of the introduction classes, which she happened to be teaching. When I walked into The Studio (MDR) and saw these medieval machines, I thought I was in the wrong area. I was looking for the "pilates" room, but the only other door I saw was for the bathroom. Then Lindsay walked in and informed me that I was in the right spot. I was thinking, “What the fudge?! What did I sign up for?!” I soon found out it was the best workout of my life.

You work in the music industry. How do you make your workouts a priority and sneak away from the office in order to make it to class?

When I made this life change a year ago, I decided to make my body a big priority. I just have to put forth the effort to make sure I get my workouts in. Scheduling classes definitely helps keep me focused. If I have to travel, I make sure I have a class scheduled as soon as I get back. If I make long trips, I have MDR's "at home workout" videos locked in my iPad! And since there are late classes in the evenings, I never have trouble making it from work on a daily basis. Also, I've been running a lot more, so when I plan a road trip, I try and find a nice running trail in the city I'm going to. This keeps my runs interesting and I always discover new things and see wonderful new scenery in each of the cities.

Tell us a little bit about being a guy at The Studio (MDR)! Do you feel like this is harder than any of the other more typical "dude" workouts you've tried? Do you take MDR MegaMen classes (and what are they like)?

I've been hitting the weight room ever since I played high school football.  I may have had a few small breaks over the years where I lagged off, but I've pretty much been in a weight room since the age of 15. All I would ever do when I lifted was bulk up. I would never get any kind of muscle definition. I didn't throw cardio into my workout routine until I was in my late 20s, and that's when I learned that doing some cardio would actually help me slim down (along with eating healthier). So when I started taking classes at The Studio (MDR), I felt it was the HARDEST yet the BEST workout I have ever done. Because it incorporates strength building, stretching, and cardio, I started seeing results within a month. I do take MDR's MegaMen class, and I love it because it focuses more on the upper body and arms. And I like how they play the hardcore hiphop for the fellas during class!

What's been the feedback on your weight loss? What are your friends and family saying, and what's that been like for you?

I've gotten all kinds of positive feedback from everyone!  And I haven't been shy to tell them I've been taking classes (along with eating a healthy diet and running)! Oh, and when my nieces and godchildren tell me "Whoa, you're skinny now," that's the ultimate compliment.  You know the kids won't lie!  So, the compliments definitely make me feel great and help me stay motivated.

What are some of the challenges you've faced along the way? Any setbacks? Any times when you felt like you were going to give up? Or let your diet go to crap?

The diet is definitely the biggest challenge. A lot of business dinners and birthdays make it tough, but I've been able to stay pretty focused. As far as the workouts at The Studio (MDR), I have had no desire to stop at all.  Again, being able to schedule classes helps keep me on track.

Speaking of diet, how have you cleaned yours up? Are there certain foods (like sugar and salt?) that you try to steer clear of now? Any other ways you've changed your diet?

I have a big sweet tooth, so the biggest change for me was to cut out sweets as much as I could. Cakes, muffins, donuts, and vanilla lattes from Starbucks and Coffee Bean are some of the things I've cut back on a lot. I also cut back on alcohol. I try buying and eating organic foods when I can. And I snack on healthy foods all day to keep the metabolism going. I didn't want to try any fad diet; I just wanted to eat healthier. But I did borrow something from one diet program. Some friends were doing Weight Watchers, which is based on a point system. I don't think I could ever do a diet where I'm counting points, but they told me one thing that was useful: vegetables and fruits are zero points. So when I'm hungry and I need a snack, I usually choose a vegetable or fruit.

What are your goals now? Do you want to lose more weight? Or run a marathon? Or bike 100 miles? What are the big things in your life you're hoping to do -- and how are your workouts at The Studio (MDR) helping you get there?

I would like to lose another 20 pounds, and then I MAY consider running a full marathon (investing the time to train for a full marathon is the hard part).  I've already done a half marathon, and my workouts at The Studio (MDR) definitely helped me accomplish that by building my stamina and strengthening my core to help me push through those 13.1 miles!  The great workouts, the great teachers, the community, and friends at The Studio (MDR) are all contributing to my healthier lifestyle -- and I appreciate everyone and everything about it!

Healthy recipe of the Month: Poptails!

Summer’s here, which means more get-togethers, happy hours … and cocktails! We asked Danielle Garonce, a Studio (MDR) client -- and amazing chef -- for a healthy cocktail recipe. She found this one on one of her favorite food blogs. Cheers!

Blood orange margarita ice blocks with lime salt

Makes 10 You will need ice-block moulds and paddlepop sticks for this recipe. Be creative and make use different shaped moulds for some kitsch fun.

• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 cups orange-flavored sparkling water
• 2 tablespoons Cointreau or other orange liqueur
• ¼ cup tequila
• 1/4 cup lime juice (plus wedges to serve)
• Finely grated zest of 1 lime, plus ¼ cup
• 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes

1. Combine sugar and ¼ cup water in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring for 2-3 minutes until sugar has dissolved. Increase heat to medium and simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly syrupy. Transfer the syrup to a large heatproof bowl and allow to cool.

2. Place the orange-flavored sparkling water in a large bowl and lightly whisk to remove the bubbles. Stir in the cooled sugar syrup and add the Cointreau, tequila, and lime juice. Transfer mixture to a jug.

3. Carefully pour mixture into popsicle molds, leaving some room at the top to allow for the pops to expand as they freeze. Freeze for 8 hours or overnight.

4. To serve, combine the lime zest and salt flakes in a small bowl. Run the molds under water to release the ice pops, then serve with the lime salt and lime wedges.

7 Secrets For a Better Detox

No matter how "clean" you eat and how often you sweat, experts agree that detoxing every so often is crucial. But we know -- cleansing is hard! (Trust us, we've chugged our fair share of detox smoothies while dreaming of chocolate cake, too!) That's why we've organized another Studio (MDR) group detox. We know there's power in numbers, and our thriving community of healthy eaters and fitness enthusiasts is just the group to help you stick to your detox.

Here's the deal: We've partnered with Paleta (the amazing company that supplies our delicious juices and almond milks!) to bring you a juice cleanse. This cleanse is called "Sip 'til Supper," which means you'll get an organic, vegan dinner along with your juices every day. After all, you're blasting too many calories during your classes at The Studio (MDR) to survive on juice alone. Even better, with so many of your fellow warriors doing the cleanse, you'll have a built-in support group. And to top it off, you're also getting a great discount! It’s just $79 per day for Studio (MDR) clients (use code TSMDRDETOX at checkout)! For more info, CLICK HERE!

If you decide to sign up (you know you want to!), here are some tips that'll help you make the most of your cleanse:

1. Dry brush your bod every morning. First, go to Whole Foods and pick up a dry brush. Next, commit to brushing your body every morning before your shower. Start at your feet and work your way up toward your heart (to brush your arms, start at your fingertips and work your way toward your heart). This ancient technique stimulates your lymphatic system, which helps your body release toxins.

2. Sweat every day. If you've got a class at The Studio (MDR), you're set. If not, take a power walk or do some form of light exercise that gets your heart pumping. When you're cleansing, your body is trying to get rid of built-up toxins -- and sweating them out is a great way to give them the boot.

3. Schedule some extra downtime. When you're cleansing, you may feel a little more tired at the end of every day. So, bank on this and cut yourself some slack. Get into bed a half hour earlier each night and read, or spend an evening in your bathtub instead of out at happy hour with friends.

4. Drink more water. During a detox, you'll need to consume at least eight glasses of filtered water or herbal tea each day (or more, if possible!). This will keep your body hydrated and help speed toxin elimination.

5. Know that things may feel worse before they feel better. You may feel a little irritable, tired, and headachy at the end of the first day. You might even feel like you're getting sick. That's because your body is trying to heal itself by getting rid of mucus. Just remind yourself that it will pass and that when it does, you'll feel better than ever.

6. Give yourself a cold blast in the shower. Showering removes toxins from your skin and opens your pores for further elimination. To give your circulation a boost, set the water temp as hot as you can stand it for three minutes, followed by as cold as you can bear for 30 seconds. Repeat this a few times to really kick your circulatory system into full gear.

7. Stock up on organic veggies. If you absolutely have to cheat, reach for vegetables (not that piece of birthday cake in your office kitchen!). And when you come off your cleanse, eat as clean as you possibly can. Introducing toxins right away can do a lot of harm. So think fresh, whole, organic foods for the weeks (and hopefully months!) after your cleanse. Eat plenty of veggies, fruits, non-gluten grains, beans, small amounts of nuts, seeds, and lean organic meats and fish.

Sign up for the Sip 'Til Supper Detox!

Our last studio cleanse was such a huge hit, we're joining forces with Paleta again to kick-off the summer! Check out the photo below to get all the info you need about our Sip 'Til Supper Detox! It all starts on June 17th! Sign up by clicking here.

Use the special code TSMDRDETOX at checkout to get our special studio rate.

Dressin' to Sweat

A guest blog by Ambassador Adriana Jamet Being pregnant has its challenges – and thankfully working out is not one of them. I am proud of my body for being strong enough to run a 15k race in San Diego last month, and love the fact that I still leave all my classes at The Studio drenched in sweat and satisfied. The only hiccup thus far has been maternity workout clothes: I have been searching everywhere for my ‘perfect pregnant workout outfit’ and everything has fallen flat. Ok, I admit that I have a closet filled with Lululemon, so I’m a bit jaded. Luckily for me, Lisa and The Studio stepped in to help!

On April 20th The Studio and Paleta hosted the most beautiful baby shower for us Megamama’s. It was a celebration of Paleta, The Studio's MegaMama's class as well as the unveiling of ‘Beyond The Bump’, Beyond Yoga’s newest line of maternity work-out wear.

We walked into the studio filled with gorgeous flowers, an amazing and delicious sampling of Paleta Pregnancy, and stunning workout clothes that we were asked to try-on and work out in. What a treat! We were spoiled!

I was floored by the comfort of Beyond The Bump’s clothing - this maternity line is truly spectacular and so well done. Our baby bumps looked so cute and stylish as Jessi led us through a Megamama’s class - and I have to brag that our bums looked awesome in their yoga pants as well. I was in absolute heaven! Problem solved! Beyond The Bump is THE maternity work-out wear for me.

I left the baby shower glowing and we were given an incredible gift bag filled with too many goodies to list. It was a wonderful event, and a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who helped spoil us Megamamas that day.