Cassey Ho's Blog, page 14
December 29, 2023
This Mini Backpack Should Not Be $19.99
Hey guys!
I hate that price is a (very real) barrier, so I had to find a way to give you a quality product I was genuinely proud of while making the math math on the backend and GIRL MATH on the frontend!
Y’ALL.
The Blogilates Mini BackpackIt took a whole year to figure out the right fabrics and trims to get this mini backpack to look luxurious while making it a STEAL at the same time. It was difficult, like really difficult, but the in the end, I was ok with not mathing…so you could girl math – aka MAKE MONEY.
Make it affordable, but don’t make it cheap.View this post on Instagram
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Mission accepted.
Like seriously. This bag should not be $19.99 but it is somehow and you better SNAG IT if you see it. You can’t be mad at me when it sells out. I warned you.
Pillow soft 7 (!!) POCKETS Hidden loops in the shoulder straps Adjustable bungee cords Criss cross sweater holder
You can get the Blogilates mini backpack at Target right now online or in-store! While you’re there, don’t forget to shop my other new designs – All under $20!
The Blogilates January 2024 Workout Calendar!!
Hey guys!
Your first workout calendar of 2024 is here!!! I actually cannot believe it’s 2024 already?! Life has been so crazy these last few months, time is just speeding by. There’s a lot of growth and a lot of change happening though, so I know the work and sacrifices will be worth it.
I’m ready! Are you?!
Here's your January Workout Calendar!!!
How to follow the January 2024 Workout Calendar
Check the Blogilates YouTube playlists to find all of the videos you need for this month’s calendar!!
OR you can get everything you need (and more motivational tools!) on the BODY By Blogilates app! If you don’t have the app yet, it will make following along with this month’s workouts easier! You can access not only the calendar but all of the videos in one place. Find challenges and free programs like the Glow Up Sessions and the 200 Ab Challenge there too!
Now that you know where to find your workouts, here’s what you can expect each day of the January Workout Calendar. You ready?!!!
SUNDAY: Recovery
MONDAY: Total Body
TUESDAY: Abs
WEDNESDAY: Booty
THURSDAY: Total Body
FRIDAY: Arms
SATURDAY: Legs & Thighs
Do each video once (unless otherwise stated) and check off as you go! Most days will be 45 min max of exercise.
If you get the BODY By Blogilates app, your workout calendar and workouts will all be in one place! And it’s so fun and motivating to get that “Workout Complete” checkmark 
Speaking of the app!
The Blogilates community is the BEST. So, I wanted to create a space where we could all feel a little more connected to each other! The social feature (in the most updated version of the app) is a place where you can share photos and/or text thoughts and comment on each other’s post. Think the good ol’ days of Instagram!
ANNNND 
Earlier this year, we launched P
PCYCLE, a place where you can list and shop for gently used POPFLEX and Blogilates items! You can read more about it here!
If you're just getting started...
Or want to ease into working out, my Beginner’s Calendar is a great place to start! It’s a free 4-week program to get you stronger so that you can join in on the monthlies when you are ready.
Want MORE?! Take on a challenge
Take on the No Abs Left Behind Challenge or discover some fun new meals with the Build-A-Bowl Challenge!
You can find more challenges here!
Time to check in!
LET’S GOOO 2024! Let me know you’re IN in the comments 
.
Meal Prep Just Got A Lot Easier, Thanks to These Tools
It’s almost a new year, which means you might be thinking about ways you can up your meal prep game. That doesn’t mean you need to hop into 2024 ready to spend hours every Sunday prepping meals for 5 days a week. It’s also not only for people on weight loss or bodybuilding journeys, or for people who live by their macros or a strict meal plan.
In fact, I didn’t truly discover the “magic” of meal prep until I became a mom. It’s the time saved for me. Sometimes yes, I do prep a week’s worth of lunch. Most of the time though, my meal prep is stocking my freezer with bite-sized pancakes for my kids, or prepping bowls of cut fruit that they can easily grab.
Even if you’re not a parent, meal prep and meal planning can save you a lot of time and energy. If you’ve tried it before and felt overwhelmed, take smaller steps. It really is the little things, even when it comes to planning meals.
Having the right tools helps too. Here are some of my favorite kitchen tools to make life easier in the kitchen. Of course, these aren’t “must-haves” and you don’t need every single one.
I’ve collected these over time (read: YEARS) as I build my meal prep game. Hopefully this list gives you an idea of where to start!
1. Glass containers
Image: W&P
Let’s start with the basics – Food storage. Having an assortment of different-sized containers will save a lot of frustration later. I recommend going with glass if possible, for safe reheating straight from the fridge. Glass also seems to last a lot longer than plastic storage containers. If you can, it’s worth spending a little more for quality containers instead of replacing them every year or two. Here are some of my favs:
Pyrex – Trusty, budget-friendly, oven-safeGlass containers with clip-on lids, to prevent spillsW&P Porter Bowls – Pricey, but aesthetic and I love the shape and sizeJars for sauces, dressings, storing nuts and seeds2. The viral chopper
I’ve been burned many times by products that go viral on TikTok, but not this one. This chopper tool really is life-changing. I use it to make entire chopped salads (that I then eat straight out of the container). I also use it to dice apples for oatmeal and potatoes for potato soup.
3. A salad spinner
I’ve owned this Tiktok-viral tool for close to a year, and can confidently say it’s worth the hype. I can also confidently say that if I don’t have lettuce washed and prepped for myself, I am NOT making a salad.
With this little tool, I can wash and dry my lettuce as soon as I bring it home from the store so it’s ready to go.
4. A planner
SHOP MEAL PREP PAD AND FIT PLANNER
Sometimes planning is what scares people away from meal prep. It feels overwhelming but can start as small as writing down what you plan to eat for dinner each week.
I’m a list person and a Millennial, which means I like to physically write things down. This Meal Prep Pad helps me write down the meals I’m planning for the week, and I love that I can build my grocery list right on the same page.
You can find this tool in the 2024 Fit Planner too. And a workout planner, a goal planner, recipes, and more. If you prefer to keep your life in one book, get this option.
5. Measuring tools
Nothing is more frustrating than digging through a drawer searching for a specific measuring cup or spoon, or realizing the one you need is missing in the sink. These little hurdles seriously add up, taking your time and adding stress.
It’s time to build a complete set of measuring tools, starting with the basics: A measuring cup and spoon set, and liquid measuring cups. Yes, they’re different!
Do you need a kitchen scale? It feels intense, but they’re not only for people who meticulously weigh their portions to hit their macros. A scale might be really helpful when you’re dividing up equal portions of protein, or when you’re baking and ingredients need to be precise.
6. This 3-in-1 blender
Image: Target
I have owned an older version of this Ninja system for nearly a decade, and I still use it consistently. I use the cup for the obvious thing, smoothies, but also to make salad dressings and small servings of other sauces. I’ve even used it to make nut butter.
I use the food processor to quickly chop broccoli into fine pieces, pulse together a crust or crumble for desserts, and (my favorite) make energy bites.
I use the larger blender attachment to prep large servings of smoothie that I then freeze into cubes to speed up the process later (my kids love smoothies so I make them often). I also use it to blend chunky pasta sauces for my slightly picky husband, or secretly blend veggies INTO the pasta sauce. You can use the blender for soups too.
The blades on this thing make everything super smooth. So smooth that no one will detect spinach in a smoothie or carrots in their pasta sauce.
7. Immersion blenders come in handy too
Image: Amazon
This is one of those tools you don’t realize you need until you have it. You could puree soups in a big blender, or you could use this immersion blender right in the pot. No mess, no risk of spilling hot soup on yourself.
I love that this blender comes with a mini food processor and whisk attachment, too.
8. A vacuum sealer
Image: Amazon
This is my favorite money-saving meal prep tool. If you eat meat, you know it’s EXPENSIVE. I like to buy it in bulk (I mostly do this with chicken), trim the gross pieces, and weigh it out into the portions I typically need for cooking. This is usually 1 to 1.5 pounds for me! Then I vacuum seal each portion, write the weight and date on each pack with a Sharpie, and freeze.
Not only does this save money, but I don’t have to deal with touching and cutting raw meat later (my least favorite part of cooking).
If you’re willing to put in a little work upfront, future you will thank you.
The list of vacuum-sealable foods is endless, even if you’re not a meat-eater.
9. Prep bowls
Image: Amazon
There’s just something about a matching set of mixing bowls that makes you feel ready to get in the kitchen, right?
I love these. You can grate cheese, carrots, or zucchini, or thinly slice veggies right into the bowl. And mixing bowls with lids are a game-changer.
10. A garlic peeler
Image: Amazon
Peeling garlic is the worst. This silicone garlic peeling tool is inexpensive and worth every penny to save yourself from stubborn garlic skin that sticks to everything.
While you’re at it, grab a garlic press to save yourself even more time.
11. An ice cube tray
Sometimes I use these for ice, but I mostly use them to freeze pre-made portions of smoothie and leftover pasta sauce or chicken broth.
12. An Instant Pot
Another game changer for meal prep. If you don’t own one yet or find it intimidating, I promise it’s easier to use than you think! I use it to quickly cook large portions of rice and a few of my favorite soup recipes. I also love that you can sauteé the base of a recipe (garlic and onion for example) and then add your other ingredients, which to pressure cook mode, and walk away. No manning the stove, no extra dirty dishes.
It’s a learning curve, but worth it.
13. Flat-top grill
I am totally aware that this is a big purchase and not just a quick “add to cart.” Like I said, you can meal prep without anything on this list, and that is certainly true for this griddle. But it’s a favorite of mine and it has truly changed my meal prep game.
If you’re cooking for a family or multiple portions for yourself, having a griddle eliminates the need for multiple pans or cooking in batches. I can cook 12 pancakes at once on this, or even a whole breakfast spread. We can cook stirfry insanely fast on this too and it doesn’t leave me with a wok to clean.
14. Shaker bottle
Finally, a trusty shaker bottle to take your protein on the go. This bottle has saved me so many times when I’m caught up in a busy day and just need something quick to avoid hanger between meals. It fits in my car cup holder (major win) and has a built-in filter to catch any lumps. The iridescent design makes it fun to carry, too.
*This list may contain referral links for products we love, and all opinions are our own. Blogilates.com earns a small commission from these links, at no additional cost to you.
December 26, 2023
New Blogilates designs at Target for less than $20!
Hey guys!
I hope you all had a lovely weekend resting and spending time with your family .
Sam and I had a bit of a different holiday this year as a lot of change is happening in our lives right now, so there were no presents under the tree, no family gatherings, no parties, no formal dinners. In fact, we simply went out to get Korean food and boba after spending the day reorganizing our lives. Don’t worry, it was still a fun Christmas even though it wasn’t traditional (or the slightest bit restful).
ANYWAY.
Have you been to Target lately?Not sure if you visited your local Target yet buttttt the new Blogilates end cap is up!
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All new designs under $20!
SURPRISE!
My secret weapon on super busy days (which is like every day right now). I use the time markers on the bottle to make sure I’m not forgetting to hydrate throughout the day. Now you have 3 colors to choose from!
This mini backpack will FLYYYY
I’ll eventually film a video about the mini backpack but trust me now when I say, that one is gonna FLY off the shelves if you don’t get it now. It is such amazing quality and so beautiful with a ton of pockets!
SAME.
For the gym, work, or your next trip. This tote holds SO MUCH.
If you love the 40-oz bottles, now they come in a pack of two for $19.99! Are you getting the citrus color combo or periwinkle?!
Shop the links in this post or head to your local Target and find everything on the endcap! Oh and send me pics! I wanna see the display!!
Ok, back to cleaning. I had avoided getting into the harrowing depths of this reorganization project but here we are and it feels so exhausting…but incredibly rewarding.
You Wanted a Hoodie Romper 👀
Hey guys!
So you want a romper? I’ll give you a romper. Just don’t ask me how to pee. 
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Meet the
Cloud Romper This is the POPFLEX Cloud Romper – Yes, the Cloud Hoodie in ROMPER form.
Enchanted hood Cozy Cloud fabric Oversized fit Blousy sleeves Drawstring waistband Pockets
If you saw the Game Day Hoodie Dress and didn’t love the DRESS part of it, I hope the romper suits you better!
I’m LOVING how I can wear it snatch mode or 
mode. I’m 5’5” wearing the S/M! If you have a long torso you’ll be fine bc with the extra vertical length I added for bunching at the waist, it’s soooo adjustable.
Hope you !
December 20, 2023
Feeling Like a 1950s Debutante Barbie
Hey guys!
I really felt like a 1950s Debutante Barbie last night at the Asian American Awards Unforgettable Gala with my big tulle skirt and tall white gloves! First time ever wearing a petticoat and wow WAS IT HEAVY. Also, I always kinda wanted to know what a dress that couldn’t fit into a car looked like and well, now I know.
Oh but you know what I don’t know?
How do you pee?
No seriously though! How did the European ladies, princesses and queens do it back in the day…because I held it in all night. There is NO WAY I was gonna let that tulle touch the floor of a public restroom! Plus how, like HOW does one even navigate the nether regions without sight!?
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Oh, and best compliment of the night: “Did you get a boob job?”
Hahaha no but chicken cutlets, a corset top, and a little weight gain will do it 
After the gala I went right back into work mode, setting up the new office for our first shoot there/last shoot of 2023! Definitely had to go for a Homegoods run because I was feeling like we needed more rugs! Here’s a lil’ sneak peak of the new place!
Do you love the neon sign?!
Okay back to work. TTYL!
December 16, 2023
The slow cardio treadmill workout I’m loving right now
My current workout mood: 30-1-30
30 incline 
1 mph 
30 minutes 
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30-1-30 Treadmill Workout
This treadmill workout seriously gets my heart rate so high, and in comparison to running (which feels like torture to me) this slow cardio hiking situation feels more enjoyable for my body! I spent yearsssss trying to like HIIT, trying to like running, but honestly, it always felt like I had to try SO hard. I also never really felt like I got better at it.
Ever since I’ve been testing out slow cardio like the 12-3-30, I’ve noticed my body is just simply liking it more. I’m better at it. It’s weird because my heart rate gets high (higher than when I’m running) and yet my muscles aren’t dying. Mentally and emotionally, I’m not dying either! To be completely honest, it’s the first cardio I think I’m actually good at and getting better at, which is so exciting!
It all kinda goes back to what your body is better suited for. I have the endurance to push through slow hard things (that’s why I’m good at Pilates) but I know I’m bad at fast sprints (that’s why I never really enjoyed HIIT). It’s just not meant for my body, so I gas out really fast.
Give this a try if fast cardio didn’t work for you either! I’m seeing changes in my body and my booty…and I love!
Oh and if your treadmill doesn’t go to 30, try a step mill!
December 13, 2023
This packable puffer jacket was made for the cold girlies ❄️
Hey guys!
Is it just me or do you sometimes feel like you wanna dial up the warmth on a hoodie? Cold girlies, this one’s for us.
The Pillow Packable Puffer JacketView this post on Instagram
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I wanted to get extraaaaa creative on the Pillow Packable Puffer Jacket, and I’m so happy with the way it executed! From the convertible mittens to the transformable pillow, this is def one of my most multi-faceted POPFLEX designs yet!
Compact and packable (and folds into a pillow!) Made with vegan down Water resistant Convertible mittens Romantic, satin-lined hood for anti-frizz hair Kangaroo pockets to keep hands extra warm
I am 5’5” wearing the S/M! I really would not recommend sizing up here as it’s already super oversized!
If you have any questions, just ask me in the comments! Oh…and dropped shoulder haters, this one’s for you too. 
December 11, 2023
A snapshot of life lately…
Hey guys!
Life. It’s been…absolute insanity. Like the really good kind of insanity but the really intense kind of insanity. The kind that you dream of, but the kind that will break you if keep going like this.
Yesterday I was honored as one of Youtube’s OG Asian American creators, alongside some iconic legends. I was supposed to prepare a speech…but in a room full of people who I had once admired from afar who then came to be my real-life friends, I decided to speak from the heart instead.
Swipe a couple to see a lil clip of my speech!
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My life and my career today would not be what it is without that first 10 minute Pilates video I posted on YouTube in 2009. Isn’t it wild how the universe works? Pilates, YouTube and you guys brought me back to my childhood dream of becoming a fashion designer…something I was told I’d NEVER succeed at…and yet here I am, living the most intense version of my dream. So intense that it’s about to break me.
After the gala, Sam and I had to tend to some real world duties. In my literal evening gown and heels, we went to go check on a paint job (we’re in the middle of moving into a new office for POPFLEX) to make sure the contractors did their work.
It was then that I asked Sam to shoot me amongst the construction because it was a perfect representation of us TRYING to harmonize the extremes in our lives:
The contrast of dream and reality…
The juxtaposition of elegance and chaos…
The push and pull between a thriving business and a balanced life that does not exist…
This is us right now.
Truly thrilled. Yet truly exhausted.
I’m grateful for all of it, and for what’s to come. But I know in my bones that if I don’t slow down I will break down.
December 6, 2023
How to Ignite Motivation in the Dark, Winter Months
It’s mid-December and it feels like I’m running on fumes. There’s just so much to do…and so little daylight.
I’m typically most productive in the morning, bouncing out of bed when the sun rises. But in the winter, you’ll find me hitting snooze and then dragging myself out of bed, skipping my workout in the process.
The real struggle is the evening when my body is ready for bed at 6pm because it feels more like 10pm. Getting anything done is nearly impossible because if I sit down, I’m dozing.
If you’re feeling the same, let’s make some changes.
Reignite your motivation in the winter monthsThe dark and cold aren’t holding us back any longer!
1. Switch up your routineForcing the same routine when it really isn’t working is going to drain you. Maybe that 6am workout was doable when the sun was coming up, and you actually had energy for a post-dinner walk when 7PM didn’t feel like 11PM. For me, cooking dinner every evening feels more daunting now that it’s cold and the only thing that sounds good is snuggling up and ordering in.
It’s okay to change your routine as your circumstances change. I know change is hard, even when it’s necessary. But trust.
Change your workoutMaybe now is a good time to switch up your workout. Try something new, lower your intensity, or even make your workout shorter. If getting to the gym is a struggle in the winter, give home workouts a shot.
These changes can be as temporary as you want! Changing things or taking it easy for a bit might help you feel more excited about your workout. Plus it
Adjust your scheduleTake a high-level look at your day, and see where you can move things around. Can you go to bed earlier to feel more rested in the morning? Is it possible to work out at a different time of day?
2. Set yourself up for successThink about your barriers. What is getting in your way regarding what you intend to do, and actually executing it consistently? Then, do what you can to make the execution easier on yourself. Some examples:
Lay out your workout clothes or pack your gym bag the night beforeFill your water bottle so it’s ready for youPlan your menu for the week ahead of timeLean on frozen foods, and other “convenience” items as often as you need (i.e. frozen veggies and rotisserie chicken to the rescue!).Stock up on slow cooker recipesWrite out a simple weekly “chore” schedule
Just little things to save time and keep yourself on track! Doing these things for yourself will feel good too, which will help with motivation (AKA you’ll feel less like you’re drowning).
Image: Verilux
3. Add more light to your dayIf the sun is bailing on us for a few months, let’s try getting light elsewhere. I’ve heard so many good things about light therapy lamps, which have been shown to help with symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Starting your day with a few minutes of light therapy might be just what you need to crush your day.
In the evening, light therapy can help stimulate melatonin to give you better quality sleep. This is important because being sleepy in the winter doesn’t always mean I’m going to sleep WELL.
Of course, it always helps to get outside while it’s light out when you can too. A little sunshine and fresh air can boost your energy and pull you out of a slump.
4. Incorporate JOY
@mary_skinner how to love winter & slay your hibernation era
Always have something to look forward to. HAVE FUN.
If you dread the cold, dark drive to the gym, blast your favorite playlist on the way there.Try a new class – fitness-related or not!Dive into a new book or audiobook series instead of rotting and scrolling before bed.Trade favorite recipes with a friend or try a recipe dupe for a restaurant dish you love.
Lightening the mood for the tasks or times of day when you feel blah will help boost your mood and your creativity so you don’t feel so “stuck” during the dreary, slow months.
5. Be easy on yourselfAbove all else, cut yourself some slack. Just as the weather and amount of sunlight we get changes, so do our fitness levels and motivation. It all ebbs and flows! So let it.
We can’t be at the top of our game all the time. So instead of feeling discouraged if you’re not there right now, lean into the rest you need. Focus on what feels good and your motivation will be back, perhaps stronger than ever.
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