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.

Transformer of the Month: Kelly Callahan

This mom of two, wife, and full-time doctor thought she didn’t have time to work out at The Studio (MDR). But amazing things have happened because she found a way to sneak in some “me” time and make her way to classes three times a week. Here’s her story.

Tell us about your starting point. How did you find The Studio (MDR) and what were you hoping to accomplish when you first signed up? 

I lived around the corner from The Studio (MDR) when it first opened, and I was pregnant with my second daughter at the time. I remember driving by the studio every morning on my way to work, peering in the window and wondering if that was something I could ever do. After Julia was born, the weight was not coming off like it had after my first pregnancy, and I was in the worst shape of my life.  I hadn’t exercised in two years. I thought I would never have the time to exercise again because I was working full time and was a mother of two. I was feeling sluggish and out of shape, and I resigned myself to the fact that I would never reach my ideal weight again, never mind get toned.  One day, I came home from work and my husband surprised me with a Studio (MDR) class and toe socks. He was very encouraging about me trying it since I had been talking about it for so long. The following Sunday (in April 2012) I took the introduction class  and I haven’t looked back.

What was your first class like? How tough did you think it was? How sore were you the next day? Were you “hooked” from the start?

The first class was incredibly tough for me. I remember doing the standing long jump and thinking I had just ripped my hamstring in half. I almost felt defeated at the end of the class, but everyone’s encouraging words as I left the studio that day (and my husband’s pep talk when I got home) made me committed. Two days later, I was still sore from my first class but I was determined to get on the Megaformer (and not fall off!). I had to modify every move; I couldn’t even do plank to pike. Mary, Lindsay, and Jesse worked diligently with me over the next weeks and months and had such patience with me as I tried to learn the moves and build strength. I remember the first time I finally was strong enough to do plank to pike without any modifications. I wanted to yell at the top of my lungs, “ I did it!” in the middle of class. I kept my composure but I logged it as my first goal ACCOMPLISHED and had a huge smile on my face for the rest of the class.

Have you had any challenges along your path to transformation, and if so, how did you push past them?

The biggest challenge for me (and for most moms I know) was learning to take time for myself. My initial hesitation about taking class was because of guilt I had thinking I would be taking away time from my family. I am so thankful for the late night classes, because I can spend the evening with my family and then head down to the studio for some “me” time. I soon realized that taking care of myself is so important and makes me a more active and engaged mom. My 3-year-old now asks if she can exercise with me when she gets big.

MDR talks a lot about loving your body in order for it to love you back. Have you had some moments where you’ve realized how far you’ve come in this sense?

I had no idea I could be this strong! It was great to see the rest of the pregnancy weight melt off, but the best part was to see that I actually had muscles under all of that extra weight. I stand a lot taller now.

Where are you now in terms of how far you’ve come from your starting point, and what are your new goals?

I can still envision myself in my first classes and I am so proud of how far I have come. I am in the best shape of my life. I lost 30 pounds and am back to my ideal weight. I went from a tight size 10 to a comfortable size 6. Most of my life I was a size 8, but now because by body is so much more toned, I am a size 6! My upper body strength is what has surprised me the most.  I can easily do military style push-ups now, and when I get a glimpse of myself in the mirror and see my toned arms, I smile. I also have my mental toughness back and know I can conquer anything I set my mind to. The classes are still tough, which keeps me coming back. I strive to accomplish small goals each session, like holding all the planks for the entire time or getting through the first 25 minutes without taking a break or modifying any moves. I don’t always meet my goals, but I don’t give up.  My husband and I work out together now on days that I don’t go to The Studio (MDR), which has been so much fun for us. I hope to do a mud run in the fall and a duathalon (running and biking) next spring. My 20-year high school reunion is in August and I will be rocking my size 6 LBD!

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.

The Refer a Friend Challenge

This month we are holding an incredible challenge here at The Studio (MDR)!

If you’ve joined our community, odds are good that you’ve been transformed. And we’re willing to bet that there are some people in your life who you’d love to help transform as well – especially with summer right around the corner! To encourage you to get your friends to walk into The Studio (MDR) – and to get them to sign up! – we’re running this REFER A FRIEND challenge.

It works like this:

1. Get as many friends as you can to take a class at The Studio (MDR) and tell them to mention your name when we ask who referred them. The minimum to enter the challenge is to refer at least 3 friends!
2. At the end of May, we’ll tally up how many friends you’ve sent our way.  You'll get double points if your referral signs up as a member!
3. The Studio (MDR) students with the most referrals and sign-ups will win! 

These are the prizes:

• FIRST PLACE: One month of unlimited classes at The Studio (MDR)!! Retails at $259!!
• SECOND PLACE: A $100 gift card to Beyond Yoga!
• THIRD PLACE: A $50 gift card to Cow's End Cafe!

Transformer of the Month: Emily Lavender

How did you find The Studio (MDR) and when did you first start taking classes?

I first took class at The Studio (MDR) shortly after moving back to LA with my fiancé. I had gained weight after a lot of stress and struggles going on in my life and wanted to get back in shape before I started wedding dress shopping. My future sister-in-law had been taking classes at The Studio (MDR) and told me I had to try these classes. She brought me to my first class with Mary in February 2012.

What were your fitness (and other) goals when you first started?

Towards the end of college I gained a lot of weight, but I was able to lose it pretty quickly. I just didn't maintain the loss. So beginning of 2012 I found myself well over my "comfortable weight." I wanted to get back to 120 pounds by my wedding on August 10, 2013. After a little over a year at the studio (and 4 months until the wedding), I'm 123 pounds! I’ve lost 22 pounds! I am completely confident that I will surpass my goal for the wedding and I will not have the issues with maintaining my weight loss as I did in the past. I have learned a lot over the last year and have gotten in touch with a healthier me -- not just me temporarily on a diet. Now I'm addicted to the feeling of strength I get every time I'm in class, and I enjoy eating healthy, clean foods way more than junk food. It's more than the number on the scale or the jeans size I wear now; it's about living the healthy lifestyle that I've found.

What was your first impression when you took your first class? Were you hooked right away?

I think I was hooked even before the class started just by talking to Lindsay at the front desk and hearing her story. Then Mary showed me the Megaformer and I had no idea what I was in for! I couldn't believe what a challenge it was, and as soon as I was finished I couldn't wait to sign up for my next class. I don't think I'd ever been that sore in my life! I've never felt stronger than I do now and I feel like I'm up to any challenge. Whether it's a 5-minute plank or one of the ridiculous upper body classes, I know I have the physical and mental strength to get through it!

What have been some setbacks along your journey? How have you gotten back on track?

I pretty much used to never cook! My fiancé likes to cook, so I would eat what he made and ask him to make veggies instead of loads of rice and beans for me. But I never paid attention to how he was cooking anything, the amount of oil or salt. And if he wasn't cooking, we'd eat out. The biggest hurdle has been to get over my fear/hatred of the kitchen and learn to plan meals and cook!

What's your diet like? Did you clean up what you eat in order to reach your goals?

It took me a while to come around to what eating clean really means. Last year I was eating OK, but not clean, and I lost about 10lbs. Beginning of 2013 I realized that it was time to really evaluate my eating because I wasn't losing the weight that I was working so hard to lose. I focused on cutting out sugar and carbs and watching my sodium intake. That on top of drinking loads of water, and the weight started coming off fast! I cook at home the majority of the time now and always use salt-free seasoning. I try to avoid all processed foods and stick to lean proteins and veggies as the main staples in my diet. Not that that's all I eat, because it's not! But it's a good way of thinking when planning my meals for the upcoming day(s). What will be my proteins, what will be my veggies, and then what should I add on to reach a healthy balance for the day? Things like yogurt and berries, sweet potato, quinoa, and other foods that I can keep CLEAN! I finally feel like I've found a balance of being healthy and not feeling deprived.

Tell us a little about your upcoming wedding? Do you feel like you're ready? Has trying on dresses been more fun because you're loving the body you're in?

Wedding planning has been a lot of fun, and obviously I spent a lot of time searching for the perfect dress. As I went wedding dress shopping over the last year, I felt a little more comfortable each time. Now, I've lost another 10 pounds since I bought my dress and I can't wait to see how it looks! (Well, after the alterations!)

Your Most Pressing Diet Questions – Answered!

 

"Not a day goes by that someone doesn’t ask me a diet-related question, whether it’s what I eat myself or what it means to eat 'clean,'" says Lisa. "So, I’ve rounded up the questions I get the most and asked celebrity dietitian and The Studio (MDR) student, Ashley Koff, R.D., to give it to you straight."

Here's the diet info you need:

Q: What should I eat before a morning workout?

A: When it comes to working out in the morning, keep a few things in mind. First, we wake up not having had any fluids for hours, so it's very beneficial to hydrate the body, especially before a workout. Second, the duration and the intensity of your workout will factor significantly into what your body needs. Remember that the goal is not to just "make it through" your morning workout, but to get the most out of your effort (after all, you are getting up to work out, so kudos!). I advise almost all clients to eat something upon waking, and I like to emphasize some quick carbohydrates pre-workout. You could do a glass of coconut water, which will hydrate and give you carbs for quick energy. Or have half a glass of organic fruit juice mixed with water. You could also have a glass of organic soy milk, which will deliver some protein. What I recommend against are stimulants—black coffee, espresso, tea, sugar-free energy shots, etc.—with no calories, which is comparable to pushing on the gas pedal of your car when it has an empty tank (eeeks!). That screeching sound is exactly how your body will feel inside.

Q: I’m starving after my workouts, but I don't know what to eat or how soon I should eat afterward. Help!

A: I love making smoothies right after a workout, and I usually try to drink one within an hour after I finish. A smoothie is a quick and easy way to get all the nutrition you need. I love my Nutribullet, and these are a couple of my favorite recipes. I aim to use all organic ingredients.

Banana Berry Delight

 Ingredients:

• Handful of spinach
• 1 cup of mixed berries
• 1 banana
• ¼ cup of Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts
• Pinch of cinnamon
• 2-3 ice cubes
• Almond milk to max line
• Extract…enjoy!

Tofu To-Go

Ingredients:

• 2 peeled & halved oranges
• ½ package of Wildwood Tofu
• 1 banana
• ½ cup cacao nibs
• 2-3 ice cubes
• coconut water to max line.
• Extract…enjoy!

Q: Will an extreme diet help me drop pounds quickly?

A: Cutting back too far on calories forces the body into starvation mode. When this happens, the body holds on tightly to fat and burns up muscle tissue for energy – counterproductive events to fat loss, energy conservation, and overall health!

Q: What does eating clean really mean?  

A: I think it means being a Qualitarian: Choosing to eat the highest quality food available. I choose organic over non-organic, non-GMO over GMO, and preservative and artificial ingredient-free foods and beverages. If you do this, the body gets what fuels it optimally, while avoiding what can harm it.

A Love Note from Lisa

I'm in the mood for love … and no, I am not talking about a recent blind date. What's going on you ask? Keep reading. Every day at The Studio (MDR) someone asks Ky, myself, or one of the other teachers about what they should put in their body -- and what we put in ours. So here it is (drum roll please): I have a new-found LOVE for food. Loving food is not being a glutton. It is truly appreciating what goes into your mouth and how it will help you grow, repair damage, live longer, look hotter, feel stronger, and LOVE yourself.

Life is way too short to deprive your body of the sustenance it needs. This took me many years to really understand, and don’t get me wrong -- I am still a student of the science of nutrition and work on loving myself daily. Make no joke about it, being a woman (or even a guy) in Los Angeles is TOUGH. It took a good 40 years for me to really be comfortable with who I am and to learn to love myself through eating more food (the right food, of course). What I’ve learned is that eating multiple times a day actually boosts my energy, keeps the scale at my perfect weight, and keeps my skin looking good, too.

When it comes down to it, what you put in your body is 80 percent of the battle. We can take care of the rest with proper training -- a.k.a. The Studio (MDR) -- and a little love and grace when we mess up.  We are constantly bombarded by the media, friends, even doctors going on and on about the latest diet or fad workout, and it can all be quite overwhelming. What we need to remember is that there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. (Sorry, if there was a simple answer you wouldn't be ask'n me!) If I have questions about nutrition, I call our friend, The Studio (MDR) student, and celebrity dietitian Ashley Koff, RD. If I have questions about my workout, I ask Ky.  Please know that you are not in this alone. Be a student of your body.

So, this month when you catch a glimpse of yourself in The Studio (MDR) mirrors, give yourself a little love … actually, give yourself a whole lot of it. The scale may or may not be moving as much as you’d like, but your pants are probably a little looser and someone else has likely noticed how beautiful you look. I know I have.

With love and a big hug,

Lisa

Sneak Peek: Our Trainers' Food Diaries

Here’s a glimpse at a day in the (eating) life of our amazing trainers, Lindsay, Jessi, Mary, and Natalya: Lindsay

• Breakfast (7am): Either protein shake OR 2 eggs, 1 piece of Ezekiel bread & 1/2 avocado
• Snack (11 am): Handful of raw almonds OR a banana OR a protein shake
• Lunch (1 pm): Peanut butter & banana with pecans and a little honey
• Snack (4 pm): Same type of snack mentioned above
• Dinner (6:30 or 7 pm): Veggie chili (or something with little or no carbs and high in protein)
• And I aim to drink a gallon of water per day.

Jessi

• First thing when I wake up: 2 oz E3 shot & water with lemon
• Breakfast: Steel cut oats with almond milk and a couple tablespoons of chia seeds, blueberries, and walnuts on top
• Snack: Green juice
• Lunch: Spinach salad with ground turkey or chicken and butternut squash
• Snack: Chia seed pudding with almond butter & sliced apples
• Dinner: Kale salad with quinoa and some protein (i.e., chicken or turkey), white beans, and grilled veggies
• My sweet tooth vice: Frozen yogurt & granola

Mary

• Breakfast: Protein shake before I work out or if I have more time, egg whites with sliced avocado and salsa
• Mid-morning snack: Whole wheat toast with almond butter, sliced bananas, and honey
• Lunch: Typically a salad with some kind of protein (chicken, turkey, or fish) or turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread
• Mid-afternoon snack: Blueberries. I’m addicted!
• Dinner: I usually have chicken or fish with veggies and brown rice

Natalya

• Breakfast: Egg white scramble with artichokes OR oatmeal with vanilla protein OR fruits
• Snack: Fruits
• Lunch: Big salad with either grilled salmon or turkey
• Dinner: Salad and lean protein (mostly fish like cod, tilapia, etc.)

CONTEST: Why do YOU love being a mom?

Mother's Day is fast approaching, so we thought we'd salute all our SoCal mommies out there by having a contest to give away a free week of unlimited total body workouts! Entering is simple. 

• Step 1: LIKE our Facebook page here.
• Step 2: LIKE SoCalMoms FB page here.
• Step 3: COMMENT on this blog post and tell us your favorite thing about being a mom. Not a mom quite yet? No prob. Just tell us what excites you most about having your first child.

The most heartfelt comment wins a FREE WEEK of unlimited workouts at The Studio (MDR)! 

Winner will be chosen on Mother's Day!

P.S... Everyone is a winner because we have officially joined forces with SoCalMoms.com for their May Fitness Initiative to make workouts fun and affordable for moms. Find an exclusive discount to visit our studio on SoCalMoms.com.