HEALTH

Men & Their Underwear: Tommy John’s Fascinating Report

Unless you decide to freeball at the gym, it is always good to have a good pair of underwear to support the gold ol bulge each day. Although the term “metrosexual” seems to have come and gone when describing a straight or gay man who takes his grooming very seriously, something that has seemed to stay constant is just that without the term attached to it. Popular underwear maker Tommy John, which is based right here in New York City, discovered that fewer men are buying their underwear in cheap value packs, or letting someone else make the purchase for them. For the first time, men are starting to care about comfort and support, and they don’t mind spending a little extra for quality.

It’s not surprising in my opinion. Being in the fashion capital of the world I can totally see how this assessment works for the men in our city. Buying underwear in bulk kind of goes hand in hand with your wife or girlfriend buying for you, but long gone are those days and the focus has drastically changed with the times. Tommy John recently came out with this amazing infographic that showcases just how much has changed.

When asked what factor has the strongest influence over your underwear choice, 45 percent of men said comfort, whereas 25 percent said habit an 17 percent said look. Currently, 59 percent of men aren’t satisfied with their underwear which leads me to believe that comfort may not be the most practical idea when it comes to your next purchase. When asked what kind of underwear was most popular, the boxer brief got the most responses with 55 percent. It is also a favorite with the ladies as they like the way it looks on the guy. I happen to agree with that thought process. :).

Here is where grooming matters. 83 percent of men Manscape, where as 10 percent do not. Makes me wonder what the other 7 percent does, but needless to say, men are caring about what they look like down there and that also falls into place with what goes over their junk. “To manscape or not, is a pretty personal deciison, but one thing is certain, proper maintenance is mandatory. once you start, keep a regular grooming routine”, says Mike Gilman of Groominglounge.com.

“Personal style comes from a deeper level and shows the world your self confidence and personality without even having to say anything. if I’m wearing underwear that is uncomfortable, even though no one else can see it, I never feel my best. The discomfort distracts you from whatever else you’ve got on your plate that day,” says Ryan Rosenkilde of Brick & Vine. That could not be a truer statement if I said so myself.

Luckily, Tommy John fits this thought process with their incredible line of great underwear that is stylish, fits well and has a great price point. Don’t just take my word for it. Check out their official site for more details.

Happy Shopping Everyone!

Sitting Down With Choreographer & Actor Lancelot Theobold Jr.

by Ryan Shea

Lancelot Theobold Jr has made quite the name for himself in so many different arenas of what it is to be a professional. He is an accomplished choreographer, actor and fitness impresario with a great workout he has developed called Ab-Solute Fusion. On top of that, he also recently choreographed the movie “On Top Of The Pyramid” as well as acted as part of the Soho Film Festival. So clearly this guy has a lot going for him which is why I wanted to sit down with him and learn more.

Lance discusses how he got into all of this in the first place, his thoughts on living a healthier lifestyle, acting, choreographing and what he sees for his hopeful future. Take a look.

Hi Lance! So it seems like you are a good juxtaposition of theater and exercise. What drew you into both fields in the first place?

Well I was an athlete all my life and enjoyed the preparation for the game as much as playing the game itself. Once football was over I tried owning my own sporting apparel company and had success but was not happy or should I say feeling fulfilled the way I felt when I was an athlete. I met a guy name Richard Willis Jr who introduced me to theatre as a producer first and the theatre was just the spark and excitement I was looking for.

Tell me about how you started the concept of the Ab-Solute-Fusion Workout?

After becoming a producer and then executive producer of theatre I realized that I wanted to be in front of the camera as well. Through contacts I was lucky enough to receive a full dance scholarship at Bernice Johnsons Dance School in Queens NY. I started studying Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Tap and African for the next four years. I began to realize that dancers were tremendous athletes who had great control of their body, explosive power, tremendous balance coordination and a self-awareness of the mechanics of how their body moved. Football, basketball, lacrosse players etc. all need explosive power, balance and coordination as well but most athletes don’t have that self awareness of body mechanics and why they’re able to perform the way they do. The definition of AB-SOLUTE-FUSION is the complete synthesis of dance and athletic training.

Our goal is three fold: To create self-awareness of Body mechanics, strengthen and stretch the components of the body that will produce explosive power, better balance, and coordination while at the same time getting your mind and body into great shape.

How does one people incorporate the Ab-Solute-Fusion Workout into their own daily routine?

If your in Long Island NY you can take class every Saturday morning 10:30 at 340 Wheatley Plaza at Gravity In Motion or Tuesdays 7:30 at Valencia Gym in Elmont, Long Island or you can go to my website www.absolutefusionworkout.com read about it, see video on it or go to my Youtube channel for beginner exercises or go to my Facebook page where I post exercises on a weekly bases you’ll find all that on my website.

What do you think is most people’s Achilles Heel when it comes to not only losing weight but also staying the course and keeping it off?

I think each person’s situation is different but I do know that consistency is the key. Its to easy for people to make excuses on why they can’t and when your surrounded by negativity or people in your circle who are not interested in loosing weight and being healthy it makes it that much easier to quit. It’s not an excuse but it is reality. I watched my mom try diets for years and lose and gain it back. It wasn’t until 7 years ago after a lifetime of fighting she’s finally lost over a 120 pounds and has been able to keep it off. I asked her what was different and she said she just one day made up her mind and believed she could do it and said she watched my sister and I stay in shape consistently for years and it just motivates her not to give up.

Outside of the workout, what do you recommend people do to maintain a healthy diet?

I’m not a dietician but I do know diets are temporary. It’s about a life style change. Eat smaller portions stay away from the sodas and high sugar beverages and treat yourself once week. You can experiment with all kinds of health meals make its all about discovering and learning something new experiencing something different by doing the research, if you want to succeed bad enough you’ll create your new life style.

I heard about your big theater performance in NYC. Can you tell me more about it?

I’m apart of an incredible theatre company called Open End Repertory Theatre, we performed May 20^th as a part of the SoHo Film Festival. We’re a company that is dedicated to the preservation of classic American playwrights and new living playwrights work and we add non-traditional diverse multi-ethnic casting in the mix. Our goal is to bring to life the vision of the playwrights past and present. It was an entertaining evening of one-act plays from an extraordinary group of accomplished actors who have been together for a decade.

^.You also choreographed the movie “At The Top Of The Pyramid”. What was that experience like?

It was an incredible experience to be the lead choreographer and responsible for choreographing over ten scenes in the movie with different types of choreography. I was so grateful to the executive producers for giving me this opportunity especially cause this was my first feature film I choreographed. I enjoyed watching how a movie is shot and just the teamwork and execution and preparation that goes on behind the scenes. When you see the end result on the screen and know what it really took to get it to that point it can bring tears to your eyes the first time you go through it.

Anything else coming up of interest to our readers?

June 19^th I’m receiving the national honor of being awarded the 2015 People of Distinction Humanitarian award at the City University Graduated Center in Midtown, New York. In July I go on tour with Hip-Hop Dance Boot Camp. I travel around the country teaching the many different styles of hip hop dance. www.hip-hopdancebootcamp.com. Looking forward to going into production with a Mozell Entertainment project in the fall.

Lancelot’s Official Site

Get To Know “Genetics By Geno” Founder Geno Sylvain

by Ryan Shea

The warmer months are here, and that means the excuses to not go to the gym are getting more minimal with each day that gets warmer. Want to get into better shape as soon as you can? Why not try “Genetics By Geno”, an amazing fitness plan designed by competitive body builder & gym owner Geno Sylvain.

Geno does into depth as to why his all-inclusive plan is the best plan for you this coming summer and for all seasons moving forward. On top of his wonderful plan, he also has a line of books, cookies, water and so much more available at your disposal. In my exclusive interview with him, Geno discusses how he got into the fitness industry in his first place, why people need to stop making excuses about not going to the gym, and all of the amazing products he is designing to help you live a better life. Check it out.

Geno Sylvain, Manhattan Digest — Credit to: Rick Eberle

What drove you to be healthy at a very young age?

My mother had skin cancer when I was 9. I wanted to be helpful towards her, but I was too young to; so as time passed I wanted to help others. I was also a skinny kid, so I wanted to learn how to eat and train correctly.

Did you have anyone in the fitness world that became your inspiration?

Jack Lallane. He was one of the first fitness gurus on television teaching people how to stay fit. I used that as a starting point to help others. I took what he started and perfected his concept for a new era.

What do you find are people’s biggest excuses when it comes to losing weight and ultimately getting themselves to the gym?

The most common excuses made are “I can’t find the time”, “It’s too expensive to go to the gym” or they can’t follow their diet.

Furthering that, when people are at the gym, what is the biggest common mistake that they make when it comes to cardio, arms, legs and any other aspect?

They think more means better. They think they need to do more hours, more weight, more reps, more days, etc. And they think they can do it on their own, that they have all the answers. They continue making these mistakes until they get hurt or worse.

Tell me about Genetics by Geno. How did this concept get started?

My training became such a demand that I needed to create something different. I needed to establish a private gym where I could train up to 10 clients at a time, without membership. People could get individual attention, and practice individualized routines at their own pace, at their own time.

What comes with the entire package?

First is the evaluation, where I measure the client’s weight, their body fat, and take their measurements; then we move on to the strength, endurance, and cardio tests to see what the individual client is capable of. Having all that information, I create a personal nutrition program (with their allergies and dietary exclusions taken into consideration) and personal exercise program (with handicaps and disabilities also taken into consideration.

You even do competition prep, can you tell us a little more about that?

What was stated before, plus I find out what level of competitor they are: beginner, intermediate, or professional (so that I know what they know and what they don’t). What particular routine they need for their stage presence: what poses they need, competition attire, and what their weak point is and how to improve it.

You also have The Abster books and a line of energy bars. What else would you like to do to expand your presence in the health and fitness world?

I offer my clients the opportunity to earn $20 for each pound they lose training with me, I also developed a quick, short term nutrition program to help people lose weight for any occasion using my Abster products.

Anything else you want to add?

The Abster – the first and only apparatus that targets the lower abs that’s portable and affordable. Abster protein bars and cookies – gluten free, kosher meal replacements made of gluten free oatmeal, chocolate and peanut butter, also available without nuts. Nutrition books – a nutrition guides to help you either lose or gain weight, depending on the person’s goal. Love Yourself Naked water – filtered three times for a clear tasting, light hydration to promote better hydration. The body, in total, is 60% percent water, the blood is 92% water, and the brain and muscles are 75% water. You need to continuously renew the water.

Official Website

There Is Nothing Wrong With #Dadbod… Or Any Other Bod

by Ryan Shea

Well, here we go again society. Another trending topic that will no doubt go away after a while for most people, however this particular issue comes up time and time again with no end in sight. This is the #dadbod, or dad bod, however you want to word it. A simple article written on a site called “The Odyssey” in which a woman discusses her roommate’s fondness for a particular type of body on a man which is described as- a nice balance between a beer gut and working out. The dad bod says, “I go to the gym occasionally, but I also drink heavily on the weekends and enjoy eating eight slices of pizza at a time.” It’s not an overweight guy, but it isn’t one with washboard abs, either.

Now, no shade here to the opposite sex, but this really isn’t news if you are in the gay or bear communities… or both. This type of body is one that has been desired for decades upon decades and is a lot of the reason why men fall into the bear community in the first place. Growing up, a lot of the bear inspirations had this particular bod, which I refer to as “Huskular”, and we identified with the sexiness these men carried that allowed us to then figure out the type of man we want to emulate and be with both in and out of bed. Men like Christopher Meloni, Chris Pratt, Jason Segal and so many others have had this type of body and have also developed a great juxtaposition with males and females alike for their physical attributes on top of so many other things.

Here is the problem though with this- it has opened up a forum where we as gays are once again judging each other on what type of body each individual should have. Some men that have posted about this said that trying to achieve having a dad bod is quote “lazy”, ‘uninspiring” and “pathetic” in many adjective type terms. Others have embraced this type of movement and stated that “you should ultimately be happy with the skin you are in”. Granted the former of this argument is a personal trainer, so no doubt they don’t ever want to tell their clients to achieve this sort of thing, however many people would look at the critiques and read “judgement”. It is kind of like that mother of three a couple of years back who did the “What’s Your Excuse” type of thing. Regardless if it is meant to come off in a positive light, there are people out there who are sensitive or read things the wrong way (I have before) who will see it as “body shaming”.

I recently asked my friends this- Is having a regular guy bod, or ‪#‎dadbod‬, really that bad of a thing in the gay world? Do we feel we have to push ourselves to have a better body due to societal standards? Thoughts? These are the myriad of responses I received-

We definitely do! I’m not saying it’s right, but there is in reality an extremely high focus on what you look like as the initial attraction. That’s not to say given time personality won’t ultimately win over however initially there has to be a sexual attraction.

So to me, #dadbod is a guy that is balanced. likes the gym, but doesn’t obsess about macros. It just means that you have more time for other things. so my guess is #dadbod just str8 skinny/gay fat? Because I find that gay guys obsess more about carbs than anything. Why is that? Because gay media is still obsessed about the unrealistic ‘spornosexual’ image and I think #dadbod is a great counter stereotype, something people can realistically aspire to because let’s face it, once you’re over 30 most men can’t really have abs without eating salads all day and working out 2x a day. Who has all that time?

There’s someone out there for everyone. The trick is not over thinking it or worrying too much about it. You’ll drive yourself crazy and spiral.

I’d prefer a guy with a regular bod or dad bod over a guy that’s all muscled out. When I’m at the gym of course those guys make for great eye candy. The body that I want and the body that really makes me swoon on another guy would be a combination of a dad bod and muscle. I like a guy with a nice belly, big upper body and a nice set of legs to support it all. To each their own though.

I think that a majority of the gay world is very shallow and mistake skinny for attractive. They don’t think regular bodies ad normal bodies as attractive. And they don’t care about personality.

Clearly, it really is to each his own in so many different attributes. Granted my opinion is be happy with your own life and not focus on what other people say you should do or think of you in that sense. I relay a lot of it to that Kacey Musgraves song “Follow Your Arrow”. Just follow your arrow wherever it points. Want that muscular body that you desire to be and be with? Go for it. Happy to attain the huskular type of look that suits you and your suitors? Yay for you. Just be happy, and healthy and don’t overdo it. That’s all.

Thoughts?

Why You Should Try Brooklyn Based Marissa’s Form Fitness

by Ryan Shea

Fitness has been all the rage for years upon years now, and with the warm months right around the corner many of us New Yorkers are struggling to lose those last couple of pounds and look bathing suit ready when it becomes 70 degrees or hotter. Luckily we have found one program that works best for you, regardless of your time schedule, goals or any other adversaries.

This is Marissa’s Form Fitness, which is run by Brooklyn based Marissa Molloy. A fitness adventurist for most of her life, Marissa recently developed a fantastic health and fitness program that is designed to go at the speed that you like and get you to the finish line with amazing results. I have had personal friends do this and they recommend her program ten fold. I recently sat down with the trainer & new mommy to discuss her program, its benefits and routines, and where she hopefully sees it going in the future. Take a look.

What made you want to go into the fitness industry in the first place?

I guess you can say I just “fell into” the fitness industry. I had been working since I was 15 years old (or whatever the legal age for teens to work was 15 years ago)! So after getting married and having my first daughter at the age of 24, I became a stay-at-home mom. I basically went from working full-time for the previous 9 years of my life to sitting at home with a baby in what felt like two seconds. Next thing you know, I had a second daughter and I felt like I was completely losing myself. Yes, having children is an amazing blessing that I would never give up for anything. But, I was always the “working type”. (I’d skip class in college to pick up an extra shift at work!) I missed working, A LOT. So I applied for a local position to manage a women’s health club. I fell in love. The atmosphere was amazing, the members that were a part of that gym became like a second family, the co-workers I was around every day turned into best friends and the sense of happiness I felt when I walked through those gym doors couldn’t be contained. I found myself wanting to learn more and more about the fitness industry. Why your body needs to workout a certain way in order for results to be seen, why women had a tendency to “yo-yo” with their weight, how to properly convey the importance of working out and taking care of your body to someone who loathed going to the gym, I wanted to learn it all and I was a sponge. I was fascinated and I took advantage of having an amazing mentor at my fingertips and soaked up everything I could. When the gym I managed changed owners, I felt like someone punched me in the gut. The new owner had zero (and if there was a number less than zero, I would use that) knowledge of the health and fitness industry. She had no social graces and no clue how to interact with people. She was an all-around horrible business owner and person, let alone “boss”. I needed out. But I couldn’t bring myself to completely step away from the fitness industry and all the women I’ve grown so close to over the years. I knew I wanted to continue my journey in the fitness field, as I felt it was just beginning. So, I decided to take everything I learned from my previous boss and the amazing contacts I had made, and create a company of my own; Marissa’s Form Fitness!

Everyone gets inspiration when they are doing something they are passionate about. What is yours?

I get extremely happy knowing I’ve helped someone better himself or herself. I have been in a position where I needed help and someone showed me how to achieve everything I needed and wanted in order to live a healthy and happy lifestyle. That’s what motivates me today. I love having the opportunity to help someone achieve their goals and make positive changes in the way they live their life every day. It’s a great feeling to know that with your help, someone is healthier, happier and just in a better place physically, mentally and emotionally. And yes, exercise does affect all those aspects of your life! You will feel more energized and you will reduce your stress levels when you work out. You’ll be able to live a happier life once you become active and your self-esteem and confidence will sky rocket. It’s an amazing feeling and I recommend it to everyone!

Marissa Molloy, Manhattan Digest — Marissa 5 months after having a baby! Wow!

Tell me about your brand and the mission objective.

Marissa’s Form Fitness is a mobile Personal Training company that literally brings the gym to you. We consist of a group of expert Personal Trainers that will come to your home, office, local park, etc. to give you an amazing workout and help you to reach your fitness goals. We want to make working out more accessible to the every day New Yorker who’s often too busy to make it to the gym. It takes a lot of dedication to get yourself to a gym for a workout after you’ve worked a long day, have a family you’d like to spend time with or finish running errands for everything else you need each day. Some people literally don’t have the time to go to a gym and in return, their health suffers. By creating a mobile fitness company, we’re making health and fitness more accessible to everyone. There are no more excuses now. We will come to you to give you a workout. We will create a personalized workout program based off your needs and what you’d like to achieve health-wise. The only thing you need to do is take the first step and call us for a consultation. We literally do everything else. Once we design a program specifically for you, the workouts begin!

Do you really find that we live such a hectic lifestyle that working out is often left on the back burner, or do you feel like it’s an excuse that people make often?

I can honestly tell you; people’s lives get so busy sometimes, that we often take care of ourselves last. Why is that? We make sure our husbands, wives, kids, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, etc. are fed and taken care of but we’re always the last one to sit down and eat. Between work, family and social life, the average New Yorker doesn’t have a minute to even think of fitness or going to the gym. We can’t add time to the day, but we can make working out more manageable so there are no more excuses. Did you know that only 14% of Americans are members of a gym? Why do you think that is? Don’t get me wrong; I’m sure plenty of people make the excuse that they’re “too busy” to workout. But a lot of the time, they’re just scared to start something new. It is hard to make changes in your life and stick with them. But if you do it with the right support system around you and it’s a fun and simple process, people will be more likely to stick with it. Form Fitness is that support system to it’s clients and we take pride in operating the company that way!

Marissa's Form Fitness, Manhattan Digest — One of their amazing trainers, Kirsten Brown

What is the experience like when a personal trainer comes to your home?

Before your initial training appointment where you begin your workouts, we will have a consultation. We need to learn what your goals are. Do you want to lose weight? Do you want to gain muscle? Do you have any medical issues? Take any medications? These are extremely important questions that must be answered before we begin planning a program for you. After your consultation is complete and a training program is written up for you, we will set up your first couple of weeks of Personal Training appointments.

Once your training sessions begin, the trainer will come to wherever you choose to conduct a Functional Movement screening. This is to determine where you are fitness-wise. Something that makes us different than other training programs out there is that we test every single client to see where they are physically to ensure no ones time is wasted. For example, if you are a 35 year old who runs every day and is looking to build muscle, you will score a certain amount on this test and a program will be designed especially for you based on where you are in your life at that point in time. We don’t begin every client at the same starting point. It would be a waste of your time and money. We want to start you based off of where you are physically at this very moment. On the other hand, if you’re a 65-year-old woman who recently decided to get active again after years of inactivity, you will score a certain amount on these tests and we will start you where you need to be. Everyone is different and every workout should be different based on the client. It’s never beneficial for a gym to start each and every person at the same starting point. It’s not practical and it doesn’t benefit anyone involved.

Is there an allotted time frame or is it flexible depending on the client?

Each Personal Training session is 1 hour. We can book whatever time you’d like. For example, if you’d like to train at 6:15am before you have to get ready for work, that’s not a problem. Or 8:45pm after you’re kids are sleeping, great! One thing I learned from managing gyms is that Personal Training clients are often forced to book on the hour or on the half hour only. What happens when you get out of work at 5pm, can be at the gym by 5:45pm, but need to be home by 7pm to eat with your family. If you were training in the gym, booking a training session would be rather difficult because you’ve already missed their 5:30pm slot, and you’d be waiting around too long for their 6pm slot which would also make you late to have dinner with your family! If you can leave work at 5pm, get home by 5:30pm and start training with us in your living room at 5:45pm, you’ll be done by 6:45pm, already be home, and ready to eat right after your workout. We’ve just eliminated one extra place you needed to be during the day – the gym! No more extra stops before or after work. No more rushing to and from your workouts. Just go home and we will come to you! You don’t have to leave your house to get an amazing workout. To those that think you need those huge machines in the gym to have a Personal Trainer, did you realize that trainers barely touch those things? Every amazing trainer I’ve witnessed throughout my years in this industry steers clear of that type of equipment during a Personal Training session. They tend to work with stability balls, foam rollers, resistance bands, and other equipment we have on hand within our company!)

What do you find is the most common need for clients now that we are well into 2015 and summer is right around the corner?

The most common need among clients right now is to tone. Swimsuit season is quickly approaching and everyone is looking to tweak their bodies to see a noticeable difference not only in their everyday clothing, but also when they go on vacation or to the beach. Even the clients that don’t have to lose over 5lbs want to tone their arms for tank tops, legs for shorts, backs for amazing shoulders and stomachs for a smaller waistline. It’s all possible and it might be easier than you think (as long as you follow your program)!

Is this program affordable for the everyday New Yorker?

Yes! There are so many options available to get your health back. We have so many services available that are fully customizable, guaranteed and affordable it’s crazy to think someone would work out any other way! Gyms have so many upfront and hidden fees you could easily spend thousands of dollars over the course of a year working out in one! We’ve eliminated contract fees, annual fees, monthly membership fees, maintenance fees, locker fees, premium class fees, and basically every other fee a gym can come up with; they’re non-existent with us! The cost of your program depends directly upon the amount you’d like to train. If you still think Personal Training is too expensive for you, we have many other workout programs that you can follow in the comfort of your own home for such an affordable rate! Some even under $100! Aside from the workouts, we have amazing shakes and cleanses available for clients and they’re truly incredible. It’s a no-brainer to try Marissa’s Form Fitness to see the difference everywhere; from our customer service to our affordability, we’re a great company and we can’t wait to change the way people workout.

What is the ultimate difference between what you are doing and every other type of fitness program available in NYC?

To answer this I feel like I have to explain how I managed the health club I was in to get my point across correctly… I never felt like what I was doing was work. I always felt like the next woman that walked through those doors needed my help. Whether it was guidance throughout a workout program, help choosing which program would best suit their needs, or help figuring out how they can lose weight, I was helping each and every woman there and I loved it. And because of the fact that they looked to me for guidance, great relationships were formed and I still keep in contact with these women today. They became an extended part of my family. They knew my daughters and needed constant updated on them, they knew what my personal goals were and they genuinely cared for me just as much as I did them. It was a great feeling to have and I treasure that to this day. That’s what sets Marissa’s Form Fitness apart from any other “workout company”. We genuinely and truly care for each and every client we have. There is a huge difference between working out with us and working out in some mass-produced chain gym. And when you workout alongside people that encourage and support you the way we do, you’ll be more equipped to reach your goals and then some!

Aside from the extraordinary customer relations we have with clients, we’re looking to make working out more convenient for the everyday New Yorker. Let’s face it; we’re busy! We’re lucky if we get through one single day without the feeling of being pulled in different directions. If working out were made easier for you to do, would you still pass it up? Take advantage of working out using such a convenient and effective way of training that guarantees you results!

To put it simply, what sets us apart from other gyms in NYC is the fact that we will travel to you and we sincerely care about our clients; a commodity that’s often lost in the huge gyms where members are just viewed as a number or dollar sign instead of a person.

What are your hopes and dreams for this in 2015 and beyond?

I plan on working my a** off each and every day to ensure Marissa’s Form Fitness becomes a household name. I dream of making it easier for New Yorkers to reach their health and fitness goals by cutting costs, making trainers easily accessible and offering a constant support system to clients. I won’t stop! My 5-year goal will be to expand Form Fitness across America! I just see a company like this growing and growing. Fitness is everywhere so why shouldn’t we be?!

If this is something that interests you for 2015 and beyond, reach out to Marissa directly via the photo above. Official website is here.

The Best New Barber Shop has Arrived in Hell’s Kitchen

by Ryan Leeds

Some people take the Myers- Briggs test and read What Color Is Your Parachute to determine their life’s occupation. Others seek the advice of a guidance counselor or spend hundreds of dollars on career counseling in search of the perfect job. For an unfortunate few, they toil unhappily in a mundane desk job for years on end, until their dream diminishes like Jon Secada from the Top 40 list.

Boswell Scot took an easier and much more practical approach. At the age of 23, after being laid off from his office job, he sat down with a piece of paper and made a list of all the people he knew and their vocation. “I decided that my barber had the most fun job,” he said. “Think about it. You get to stand around, talking to people all day, and get paid for it!” Shortly thereafter, he enrolled in barber school in his home state of Florida.

In 2007, with 5 years of hair-cutting under his belt, the savvy St. Petersburg native packed his shears and barbicide and moved to New York City, where he worked at upscale salons downtown. “It was always a dream to open my own shop,” the ebullient thirty-something remarked. Eight years later, his dream is fully realized. At the beginning of February 2015, Scot opened Best Barber, an upscale, yet approachable and unpretentious full service grooming shop in Manhattan’s trendy Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. The space, located between 48th and 49th street on 10th avenue, offers a clean straightforward approach and look. Beautiful wood floors and bare white walls envelop the space with a simple neon light near the front announcing its’ name.

While the neighborhood’s demographic is predominantly gay, Scott eschews the title of “gay barber shop” and instead promotes himself as the “every-man” of barbering. “My clientele ranges. I have both gay and straight men who stop by. My female clients also make appointments. Basically, anyone who wants to be treated well and receive a great cut is welcome here.” His hospitable attitude speaks for itself. Nearly all of his former downtown clients have followed Scot to the new midtown spot . The difference is in the customer service. “Most shops in this area aren’t as personable,” he observed. “They just point to a waiting chair when you go in, and have very little interaction once you’re seated in the barber chair. You’re really more like a number than a person.” At Best Barber, his welcoming staff offers you coffee or water while you wait, and make an effort to get to know you. Plus, they use square software to create appointments, which is seamless for both his staff and his clients.

In his thirteen years of hair trimming, Scot has become a default therapist. “I’ve heard an earful from some clients,” he smiles. “People tend to reveal very personal information with me. I once had a lady, on her first visit, admit to having an affair.” Clearly, Scot’s natural charisma and cheery charm lend themselves to confessionals.

In preparing for his own business-and even now, the entrepreneur actually visits other shops to get his own haircut and encourages his staff to do the same. “I think it’s important to gain an understanding of how it feels to be a client.” Since opening his doors in February, Scot’s staff continues to grow and he has recently added a fourth barber to his roster.

The Williamsburg resident travels each day to his midtown shop, where, in addition to barber services, he carries a complete line of Malin and Goetz products. “I have always been a huge fan of their line,” he said. “Not only do they make fine quality products, but the look of their packaging fits in nicely with the aesthetic of my shop.”

On a personal note, this journalist was treated to the full “Best Barber” experience. My hair is thinning and there seems to be little hope. Scot put my fears at rest, assuring me that it is “confidence that makes the man and not a receding hairline.” Consequently, I have rarely received so many compliments on a haircut in the days following. In bold, white letters on the shop’s front window is a quote (printed in all capital letters): “HANDSOME MADE SIMPLE.” With a master like Boswell Scot at the helm, who am I to argue?

Best Barber is located at 694 Tenth Avenue between 48th and 49th streets.

Phone: 646.791.0560 http://www.bestbarber.nyc twitter: @bestbarbernyc

Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Saturday, 11-8pm and Sunday 11-6

Guerlain Spa at The Waldorf Astoria- Treat Yourself

by Ryan Shea

For most of us, the holidays can be super stressful with working overtime, endless shopping for all the people in your life and of course the erratic weather that us New Yorkers have been having. Some days you just want to relax and get away from it all a little bit. Well Guerlain Spa, located inside the famed Waldorf Astoria, wants to help you in that cause by treating you to a day of relaxation and comfort with a bevy of services they provide. Guerlain Spa has actually been around for quite some time now, almost two hundred years in fact, and is a staple for anyone who is staying at the Waldorf Astoria or for someone who wants the best in a spa experience. I got to experience first hand what Guerlain Spa has to offer and was quite impressed with so much of what they have to offer.

Guerlain Spa, Manhattan Digest — Credit to: Quinn PR

The look and feel of Guerlain Spa calls for such a calming environment the second the elevator doors open. The staff there are incredibly friendly and cater to your every need, and encourage a welcoming experience from the time you enter to the time you leave. Some of the amenities I saw at the Spa itself were quite grand and exciting. Elements from a 14,000 square foot facility, 15 treatment rooms and a full access to their fitness center are just a couple of reasons why Guerlain Spa is worth the visit. I was treated to a “touch massage” by one of their fantastic massage therapists who was courteous, professional, sweet & pleasant all wrapped in one. I, myself have never had much experience with getting massages in my life, especially on a level that Guerlain has to offer, so naturally I was excited to see what was in store from her. She was able to help with the problem areas on my body and I left feeling rejuvenated, relaxed and satisfied all at once. It was a fantastic experience that I would recommend anyone doing.

For The Guerlain Spa Experience, you have your choices in the following departments- Face, Body, Nail, Wax, Makeup and a variety of massages including the touch massage that I experienced. They also have separate packages for Gentlemen only, as well as special occasions such as Bridal events and much more. Guerlain also has a great boutique located inside the facility, with their own line of skincare and beauty products available at each person’s disposal.

What’s even better right now is that Guerlain Spa has opened up their own pop up shop right outside the Waldorf Astoria! Located on the corner of Park Avenue and E 50^th Street near the lobby of the Waldorf Astoria New York, the Guerlain Holiday Pop Up Shop is open through January 4. Hosted by Guerlain and the Guerlain Spa in the Towers of the Waldorf Astoria New York, the Pop Up features a retail store with renowned Guerlain makeup, skincare and fragrance products as well as special gift sets for the holidays. Exclusively available to Pop Up attendees, the Guerlain Spa is offering 20% off spa treatment with any product purchase. For luxury spa pampering, guests have an opportunity to book spa services directly on-site, and gift cards are available for both Guerlain Spa treatments and Guerlain Boutique product purchases. To keep guests refreshed and ready for holiday shopping, Guerlain Spa beauty specialists are be on site to offercomplimentary makeup applications. Sounds pretty awesome in my book.

In addition, the Guerlain Spa will host a special Bottle Bling event on Dec 17^th form 12pm-6pm where guests may have their favorite fragrance bottles “blinged out” with Swarovski crystals. Bottle Bling is also complimentary with a $100 purchase.

Be sure to checkout their official site for more information about upcoming events and if you are in the neighborhood stop on by!

Crunch Live- Your All Inclusive Gym On the Go

by Ryan Shea

Something that a lot of us are dreading now that we are in the mix of the holiday season is the epic weight gain we may face due to all the rich food we are going to partake in. Yikes. One big issue some of us face are the travels we will experience and the fact that the gym we belong to may not be in the area we are, or even worse- trapped with the family and have no time to go to the gym outside Grandma’s house. What to do? Well Crunch Gym has a great site so that those worries can be thrown out the door! Welcome to Crunch Live, which is a website featuring workout videos of some of the most popular classes Crunch has come to be known for like Ass & Abs, Brazilian Body Blast, Cardio Kickboxing, Belly, Butt and Thigh Bootcamp, Yoga Body Sculpt and more! For just $9.99 per month, Crunch Live features real Crunch instructors teaching the class, so users can take an authentic fitness experience with them anywhere! The subscription includes full-length workouts as well as “quickie workouts” which are only 15-minutes and perfect for sneaking in a dose of exercise, especially during the hectic holidays! What’s not to lose with something as in depth as this and such a great price to go along with? I checked out the site with some fitness minded friends to learn more. [Read more…] about Crunch Live- Your All Inclusive Gym On the Go

Crunch Gym Unleashes Fun New Classes For Wintertime!

by Ryan Shea

Even with how warm the weather got for a hot second today, us New Yorkers have been in a constant reminder that summer is long and gone and the cold dreary months are here to stay for a while. Thus making the further realization that the holiday pounds are upon us, and the thought of squeezing into a pair of jeans that used to fit us so well during the hot months aren’t exactly what they used to me. Crunch Gym, however, plans to negate that whole thought process with a ton of fun classes that will get everyone’s heart rate up and keep the pounds off in the crucial Winter season. [Read more…] about Crunch Gym Unleashes Fun New Classes For Wintertime!

Warm Ups with Rubber Bands? Meet the Da Vinci Bodyboard

by Jessica Klein

Though I don’t exercise as often as I should (I run about two times a week, on a good week), I never regret it when I do…especially once the workout has ended and I’m done panting, ready to have fun with the fresh wave of endorphins coursing through my system.

One session on the Da Vinci Bodyboard, an exercise tool created at home by a Pilates instructor/chocolatier who started tying straps to furniture all over her house, provided plenty of those endorphins. The board (“bodyboard” is literal) connects to various, elastic straps that you hold onto/strap into while performing what would otherwise feel like standard warm-up exercises combined with yoga poses.

A regular class runs for only 30 minutes, thanks to the workout’s intensity. Floery Mahoney, the instructor and the Bodyboard’s inventor, even admitted that, at home, just 20 minutes will provide a comprehensive workout. “It’s just hard for people to think it’s worth it to come to a class for only 20 minutes,” she explained.

Whether the class had lasted for 20 or 30 minutes, it was undoubtedly worth it. The board works your entire body in a way that’s more meaningful than using any sort of weight machine. That’s because weight machines target a single muscle or muscle group, leaving you with a mixture of strong and limp muscles and joints throughout your body, which could end up hurting you, especially as you age. “It’s really important to train all of your muscles,” Floery explained, citing, for example, weak knee joints that come from running without otherwise strengthening the muscles that surround them.

Before the 30 minutes began, Floery gave us (it happened to be just me and one other woman) the run down. We’d perform each exercise for 30 seconds to a minute, depending on the level of difficulty. Breaks between each heart-pumping task would last for 10 seconds. At the end of it all, we’d stretch for four minutes.

At this point, Floery asked whether we worked out on the regular. The other attendee nodded as if habitual exercise were the most natural thing in the world. I said that I tried my best to run sometimes (leaving out that this mostly applies to when I’m late for work, these days). Thus, Floery assured me that it was okay to take breaks throughout the class whenever I needed to (she suggested three-second breaks to breath during each cycle).

Before I get to the actual exercise part (I know, I promise I’ll get there), it’s imperative that I describe the board. About the length of a yoga mat (we draped one on it for part of the class), the wooden board has various bands attached at different points. Long, thin, red ones span the length of both sides (these, Floery warned, sometimes snap when it comes to the overused boards she shoves in and out of cars all the time—when your board lives at home, she assured, this will not occur) and thicker ones with “handles” attach to either corner on one end. On the other end, similar, thick bands connect to Velcro straps that loop around your ankles in the way that surfers stay attached to their boards.

The workout itself was intense. Imagine doing any kind of core workout that also involves your arms and legs…but all your limbs are strapped to giant rubber bands. The tension helped to engage all my muscles in a way that left them sore for up to three days following my time on the Da Vinci Bodyboard (on day two, walking became a serious chore).

Overall, I found each minute-long exercise very accessible. In other words, anyone can do this, which Floery encouraged. “This works for any ability level,” she insisted. “People don’t understand what their bodies are capable of.” As it turns out, my body was capable of an exercise that was so difficult we only performed it in 15-second segments, broken up by three-second breaks. (This part of the class entailed lying on our backs while “running” with our feet in the air, heads lifted and legs strapped into these massive rubber bands.)

We were lucky to get the class directly from Floery, Da Vinci Bodyboard’s creator, because she obviously knows her stuff better than anyone. In fact, she’s set to travel to South Korea to launch the workout tool there next month. “Right now, we have classes cropping up all over the US and have a lot of master trainers,” said Floery, adding that the product has also come to Switzerland and an upscale hotel in Kuwait.

In spite of the number of “master trainers” (one must get certified through a specialized training to achieve that title), Floery prefers to do the training herself when the Da Vinci Bodyboard arrives in new countries to ensure that people there maintain the integrity of the workout. Also, it’s hard to turn down a trip abroad.

To learn more about the Da Vinci Bodyboard, visit the website, where you can also order one to use at home. There, you can work out on the equipment for as little as 10 minutes a day and still make a huge impact on your body, according to Floery. Based on the way I felt after my workout, I’m quick to believe her.

For more information log onto Da Vinci Bodyboard’s official website!

HEALTH

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