Sometimes the littlest things are completely life changing. My friend who works at Reebok knows how much I love barre class, so she sent me these studio slippers to take for a test run. I honestly didn't know what a difference the right footwear can make! Sticky socks are great don't get me wrong, but I have found they tend to lose traction quickly leaving me slip sliding around detracting from the work-out at hand. With these new studio slippers my positions were stronger, my form was better, and I didn't have to keep yanking them up throughout the class like I usually do with my sticky socks! 

More and more I'm noticing people are moving toward statement workout pieces and I'm loving this trend! I love the colorful patterns and have been rocking camo and multi colored leggings quite often these days. Barre doesn't have to be boring and serious, and it's refreshing to mix in some bold items to liven up my typically boring black workout uniform. 

Currently coveting: 

1. The most comfortable pre/post workout shoe (or everyday shoe)  // Skyscapes
2. The most fun and colorful leggings // One Series Legging
3. Workout top that my best workout buddy lives in // Studio Contrast Stripe Tank

Ever since we tied the knot I've received several inquires about how I got in shape for the wedding, so rather than continue to respond individually I am going to lay it all out here to be taken as just one point of view/ one option of many to try out there. The first thing I would say is that between working a very demanding job, pulling together wedding plans, and carrying on with everyday life (and living with a boy with the fastest metabolism in the world)...working out and eating right ain't easy. The second thing I'd say is that everyone is different and what worked for me might not be right for you so... you do you! 

Wedding Workout: 

• I am a naturally muscular person so I tend to stay away from some of the aggressive strength classes at the gym and look for options that tone and lengthen. I was turned on to barre classes back when I lived in NYC, but didn't really truly appreciate them and see how wonderful they can be until I discovered Exhale Spa and Pure Barre. These classes completely transformed my frame and I seemed to just shrink and tone in places I never thought possible. I tired to go to barre classes three times a week in the two months leading up to the wedding. 
• I'm not a runner. This seems strange coming from someone who used to be a pretty darn obsessed trackster back in the day, but I think I just ran myself sick of running. However, because of this I often miss out on some essential cardio. For someone who hates running and cardio... in order for me to pick-up the pace and push myself I need something just shy of a drill Sargent screaming in my ear... enter Barry's Bootcamp. They will kick your butt. 

1. Exhale Spa // 2. Barry's Bootcamp // 3. Pure Barre

So that's it! No big secrets here! And if you're ever at the Exhale Back Bay or Pure Barre in Burlington keep an eye out for me! I'm still addicted so have been trying to continue to go on a regular basis. The no drinking and eating right thing however has gone completely out the window... 

XOX

On Saturday afternoon I had the pleasure of hitting the gym with some of Boston's finest bloggers for a spin class at Flywheel. I've been pretty open about my love for Exhale's Cardio Fusion and Barre classes, so I was pretty skeptical when I traded my sticky socks for a pair of cycling shoes. 

I've only been spinning  a handful of times so I was a bit nervous that I wouldn't know what to do or even how to clip my shoes in and out of the pedals, but the staff was so super helpful and friendly in setting us up. 

Once well all got settled, the lights went down, Rachele our instructor started bumping some seriously good beats, and it was love at first song. The energy and music was amazing and for the entire 45 minutes I felt like I was at the best dance party since Sway circa 2007... when really I was just getting my butt kicked by a fantastic workout.

I'm so excited to have discovered Flywheel and am excited to add it to my  workout repertoire. It's the perfect way to change things up, have so much fun, and get a stellar workout. 

I also won a cute tote + salad blaster from Sweet Green (another Boston favorite)! "Beets don't kale my vibe" It's so fitting for me and my love for beets (and kale!).... get yours here.

Thanks to Jessica over at Gluten Fee Boston Girl and to Flywheel for the fantastic afternoon!