Cassey Ho's Blog, page 15

January 24, 2024

Target takes on affordable wellness (and we’re so here for it)

We’ve all been about slow wellness here on the Blogilates team. Listening to our body, indulging in things that just FEEL good. 

This was a little manifesto I wrote for our first launch of the year.


 

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This year, wellness for me looks like… finding movement that feels good to me and fits naturally into my schedule. It may be a run one day and a slow morning walk the next. I’m also trying to build more boundaries around my schedule so I can relish the few hours with my 4-year-old between school pick-up and bedtime.

 

And instead of (always) ending my days with my fav Netflix show I’m trying to find a shift to softer evenings… lighting my favorite candle, and journalling or reading a book.

Wellness to you may be very different from the ways I’m finding wellness in my life. I feel like the word wellness is often branded as a spa weekend, with a high price tag and crystals whose names you cannot pronounce. But really wellness is so, so much more (although we always love a little spa moment). For our team, we’ve been talking a lot about the word.

What ‘wellness’ means to us

Here are some keywords that came to mind on the team.

Warmth – The feeling of the sun on your face, a bowl of good soup that literally warms your soul.

Travel – Whether it’s hopping on a 10-hour flight, or checking into a hotel 10 minutes away. Just getting time away to recharge in a new environment.

Purpose – This is a biggie. Building a life of purpose, and taking time to make sure your day-to-day is building upon your legacy and purpose.

Home – We’re kinda all homebodies on the team. So it’s so important to build a space that feels like a reflection of you and is functional for YOUR life.

Style – Okay, I’m not going to lie. I wear POPFLEX 99% of the time. But I’m relishing trying to build more of a style and staple wardrobe (s/o to Nuuly for helping me discover new things!).

Plants – Are plants the ultimate adulthood flex? Like, plants are the first thing I notice when I go into someone’s home. If they have thriving foliage, I have major respect. Cassey’s Fiddle Leaves are serious goals.


 

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It’s the sum of the little everyday moments that bring you joy. It’s building intention of the things that bring you happiness and peace, and a similar awareness of the things that rob you of those things (and building boundaries to protect yourself from those things).

Wellness is the mindset that it’s okay to take time for yourself, and intentionally do things that you enjoy. And for any of my fellow mums out there, this can feel especially hard to find the time to do.

And the best part? It takes $0 to take a walk around your neighborhood or look up a free guided breathwork.

But honestly, lately, I’ve found myself being a little bit more indulgent in things that make me happy… and by ‘indulge’ I don’t necessarily mean dish out my paycheck. Instead, it’s more of a mindset that I’ve allowed myself to get things that yeah sure maybe I don’t “need” but they make me happy. I don’t need to girl math my way into a hair mask or a cozy blanket.

That’s why my obsession with Target has literally tripled already this year as they announced they are diving deeper into all things wellness. By deeper I literally mean 1,000 new Target wellness products! Yeah. And they start at $1.99.

These are my 10 favorite wellness products at Target

 

1. The Blogilates Water Bottle Sling

Blogilates water bottle sling target wellness product

SHOP BLOGILATES WATER BOTTLE SLING

Hydration = wellness, and when you can tote around your bottle in such a cute bag it’s a no-brainer. (yes this is the viral bottle bag that sold out in 24 hours. And yes… it’s is officially back).

 

2. A cozy blanket

Image: Target

SHOP FAUX FUR BLANKET

My favorite part of the weekend is movie nights with my 4-year-old. We order take-out, we get cozy with a blanket and there is always, always dessert.

 

3. This Casaluna comforter Casaluna heavyweight linen comforter

Image: Target

SHOP LINEN COMFORTER

I am making it my mission in life to do a better job at making my bed every day. And this started with giving my linen closet a little ✨makeover✨ last week. Cue: cozy comforters + fun sheets. And this may not technically be one of the Target wellness products, but it’s wellness for me.

 

4. A Blogilates yoga mat blogilates yoga mat wellness at target

Image: Target

SHOP BLOGILATES YOGA MAT

Lately, I’ve been using my mat more for sound baths + breathwork, and the jury is still out for me on those practices — I feel like I’ve had amazing experiences and ones where I leave feeling anything but Zen. Regardless, this is my fav mat for so many reasons… but the main one is the vegan suede that literally feels like you are laying a cloud.

 

5. A luscious hair mask eva nyc hair mask best target wellness products

Image: Target

SHOP HAIR MASK

This hair mask is now a staple in my everything shower. I feel like my hair has been growing like crazy, but lately it’s feeling like an overgrown haystack and this mask leaves it feeling glossy and it smells. so. good.

 

6. Bala Bangles pink bala bangles at target

Image: Target

SHOP BALA BANGLES AT TARGET

 

We love a matching moment, and these Bala bangles match back to Target’s new Stanley colors (I mean… that’s next level).

 

7. Goop Daily Juice Cleanser

 

Goop daily juice cleanser wellness at target

Image: Target

SHOP GOOP DAILY JUICE CLEANSER

The only way I can do my skincare is if it EXCITES me. And goop at Target excites me. A lot. I can’t wait to try out more of the line!

 

8. Lemme Glow Lemme glow hair skin and nail supplement

Image: Target

SHOP LEMME GLOW AT TARGET

 

To be very honest I’m not a supplement girl. I feel like supplements had such a moment that it felt like a fad to me. Every influencer on my FYP was promoting some of the latest supplements and I just didn’t buy it (literally or metaphorically). But I’m giving it a second shot and really loving Lemme!

 

9. Hearth & Hand Clay Mug hearth and hand mug target

Image: Target

SHOP MUG AT TARGET

 

Not to be dramatic, but my day is decided by what mug I have my morning coffee in. There are just certain mugs that feel so cozy, and this is one of my favs.

 

10. Frenshe Cashmere Vanilla frenshe cashmere vanilla spray

Image: Target

I’ve been obsessed with perfume lately. Like I wear it to bed just because it makes me happy. Unrelated side note: my new absolute favorite way to buy fragrance right now are these gift samples… you get to keep all the samples, and then ALSO get a full size of your choice.

 

What ways do you find wellness?? Let me know in the comments!

 

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Published on January 24, 2024 18:36

January 16, 2024

My current slow girl era full body routine

Hey guys!

I’m finally getting back into a groove with my workouts, so I wanted to tell you what I’ve been doing! Honestly, it’s nothing crazy because I’m leaning into my slow girl era, just focusing on what feels good.

Life has been at an all-time level of crazy lately with no sign of stopping (working on finding some balance though). I needed to find space for fitness but dreaded the idea of pushing hard in the gym while also running full-sprint in my life outside the gym.

I ended the year doing slow cardio on my treadmill (LOVE), so I thought I’d bring that same energy to the gym.

cassey in gym slow girl full body workout routine

✨Slowing down✨ is bringing me joy

I’m not killing myself with every workout. Instead, I’m learning to be proud of myself for just moving. And guess what? It’s bringing me A LOT more joy.

This routine is a mix of weight lifting with some Pilates. I’m using weights, but nothing super heavy and I’m going slow.

blogilates slow girl era full body workoutMy slow girl era full body routine:

Turn on your favorite music and give it a try!

1. Weighted squats x 15
2. Tricep pulldown x 15
3. Double leg lifts x 15
4. Shoulder Presses x 15
5. Crunches x 15

 

Repeat 3 times and you’re done!

If you’re looking for more…

If you’re not in your slow girl era right now, that’s ok too! I have a TON of workout calendars and challenges to help you push yourself to the level you desire!

 

P.S. You can shop my outfit and mat at POPFLEX!

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Published on January 16, 2024 10:35

The coziest fleece jacket for all of your adventures

Hey guys!

My 1st design post of 2024 – sorry life has been eating me alive and I have not been able to sit down and edit until tonight (like 2 weeks into the new year).

ANYWAY.

Anyone remember the fleece jackets from Old Navy back in the day? Ok well, THIS IS NOT THAT. It’s super thick fleece with a design that pushes and pulls between feminine and masculine. I’m obsessed with how it ended up turning out.


 

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<span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span>

SHOP FIND YOUR INNER FLEECE JACKET

 

The ✨ Find Your Inner Fleece Jacket ✨

I am wearing the Find Your Inner Fleece Jacket from POPFLEX in size small in this vid and I am 5’5”. The jacket is TTS so no need to size up or down.

I hope you love all the versatile ways you can wear it:

With hoodWithout hoodCroppedLong

 

You decide! There’s a lil something for everyone, except I’m sure I’ll still get a bunch of opinions. Bracing myself.

As always, I hope you love!

SHOP JACKETS

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Published on January 16, 2024 04:14

January 10, 2024

I’m a Dietitian. Here’s What’s Always in My Costco Haul.

I talk a lot about my love for Trader Joe’s, but there’s another store close to my heart that deserves some love: Costco. While I run to TJ’s for the latest seasonal item, Costco is a little more “business.” As a food lover, both are equally fun.

My Costco hauls tend to stay pretty static. I have a list of staples I stick to pretty much every trip – A curated list that took some time to perfect because honestly, Costco can be overwhelming. It’s MASSIVE. Everything is massive. If you try something new, you run the risk of not liking it and either A. Wasting it or B. Suffering through eating it.

If you’re new to Costco, looking to change things up a bit, or just addicted to snooping into other people’s grocery hauls like me, hopefully you find some inspiration in my list of Costco staples.

costco haul dietitian approved

My Top 10 Costco Staples

These items are always on my list. One thing you’ll find lacking is fresh produce. Weird for a dietitian, right? I just tend to buy my produce on my regular weekly grocery trip instead of my monthly Costco run. Don’t judge me! Promise we’re eating our fruits and veggies.

And with that small disclaimer, here’s my list of Costco go-to’s!

1. Pre-Cooked Grilled Chicken

fresh additions fully cooked chicken breast costco dietitian staples

I passed these little packs of pre-cooked chicken up so many times before I finally tried them. I’d pick them up and mull over the date. Will we use all of this in time? Is it worth the price?

I don’t know what took me so long. My newest Costco staple has saved me time and time again during lunchtime chaos and dinners I lack the energy to make.

You get 10 individually sealed packs of chicken, and each pack provides 22 grams of protein. I use it on salad, in quesadillas, stir fry, wraps, and more.

 

2. Mashed Avocado Cups

good foods avocado mash cups costco haul

I love that these avocado cups are simple but not too simple. They add lime juice and a little salt for flavor that makes them ready to eat. No bland avocado mash here! It’s like a basic but super convenient guacamole.

My kids love these with chips (of course) and veggies. Even my 3 year-old who does not like fresh avocado gobbles these up. I love having these in the fridge to accompany quick microwave nachos (using the chicken we already talked about!) or with veggies.

 

3. Sous Vide Egg Bites

starbucks sous vide egg bites costco

Starbucks egg bites – IYKYK. These are a little pricey, but LESS pricey than buying from Starbucks every day. Sometimes cooking breakfast, or even meal prep, just isn’t happening. I keep these in the fridge so I have something protein-packed and delicious to grab in those instances.

If the Starbucks bites aren’t for you or you don’t eat meat, there is an egg white and veggie version from a different brand that are pretty good too.

 

4. Kodiak Cake Mix

kodiak cake pancake and waffle mix dietitian costco haul

I’ve been a Kodiak stan for years now. I love their pancake and waffle mix, their recipes to go with it, and their frozen waffles. I was sad when Costco stopped carrying the frozen waffles, but buying the mix in bulk is still something I do on the reg.

I love using this mix to pre-make pancakes or waffles to freeze. Lately, I’ve been loving sheet pan pancakes! Meal prep does not get easier.

I can also confirm that the recipes on the box are worth trying, too. If you or your kids get burnt out on pancakes, make the muffins! They’re freezer-friendly too.

 

5. Maple Syrup

costco maple syrup

Pure maple syrup is expensive. We go through quite a bit, using it to bake, sweeten plain Greek yogurt, and on the obvious (pancakes). The Costco price for a 1-liter bottle just stings a bit less than other stores.

 

6. Siete Tortillas

siete almond flour tortillas costco

Get ready to eat the crispiest quesadillas of your life. I love keeping these Siete tortillas in my freezer for a quick meal. They’re super tasty, gluten-free, and an easy 6 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per serving.

 

7. Grass Fed Butter

kerrygold grass fed butter costco dietitian picks

Once you go Kerrygold, it’s really hard to go back. Unless you discover the Kirkland dupe of this butter that saves you money and tastes just as good.

Grass fed butter is made with milk from cows that eat mostly grass. Not only is the butter richer in color and flavor, but it’s super creamy. It’s a good source of vitamin A and healthy fats.

 

8. Mexican Street Corn

tattooed chef mexican street corn costco

We love this as a quick and easy side dish on taco night. That’s pretty much it! It’s just really tasty.

9. Rao’s

Rao's marinara sauce Costco haul dietitian picks

I could make my own pasta sauce, but I’d honestly rather just buy this. It is a little pricey, but buying at Costco saves a little money compared to other grocery stores in my area.

If you’ve never had Rao’s marinara sauce, it’s made with a simple list of ingredients and no added sugar (kinda rare for jarred pasta sauce!). While this is definitely a plus, the taste is why I splurge a little for this sauce every time.

 

10. SNACKS

perfect bar costco

I have two kids, so snacks are always on my list when I make a Costco run. We tend to rotate through a few faves, and throw in something new every now and then for fun. Here are my usual go-to’s.

Perfect Bars – These go for around $2.69 a piece at my local Target, but come out to be $1.67 when I buy this box at Costco.Pirate’s Booty – My kids eat this daily.Applesauce pouches – Another one for the kids (mostly). These are the best for on-the-go or when it’s the end of the week and fresh produce is scarce in our house.Kind bars – Another favorite. We love the minis!Mini chocolate chip cookies – IYKYK.Baby bell cheese

 

I’m sure I’m missing something here. These are just what we love atm.

Honorable Mentions

A few other things make it into my Costco haul occasionally, but not every time (still love them though!):

Ground beef – 3, 1-pound packs for $19.99. I keep these in my freezer.Hemp seeds – I put these on everything, like waffles, oatmeal, yogurt, and even salad. It’s cheaper and more convenient to buy in bulk.Frozen fruit/smoothie mixesPre-packaged meals – If you’ve ever walked by the ready-to-eat meal section, you know it’s hard to resist! I love the street taco kit!

*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.

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Published on January 10, 2024 17:32

January 9, 2024

Trying one Seamless set on 9 different bodies.

Hey guys!

I FINALLY launched our first-ever Seamless collection after over 3 years of designing, problem-solving, and perfecting. 3 YEARS!

The ✨magic✨ lies in the construction.

“Seamless” refers to the way the fabric is made. It’s unlike anything we’ve created at POPFLEX before, which is exciting but was def a learning curve. Basically, a technique called circular knitting construction allows the fibers and “fabric” to contour the body, kinda like a second skin! We used this to achieve a super stretchy, sculpt-y fit.

There ARE, in fact, a few seams. For example, the heart-shaped booty seam shapes the booty and prevents unibutt.

So now that you have a little insight about what makes Seamless to special, let’s see how it fits!

One bra. One legging. 9 different bodies.

Remember how I said Seamless fabric is super stretchy and sculpt-y? Check out how it forms like a second skin on 9 women with all different body types.

Everyone looks SO stunning, wearing the What’s the Scoop Seamless Bra and Crisscross Hourglass® Seamless Legging!


 

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SHOP SEAMLESS

The reviews are in!

You saw how it fits, but how does it FEEL?! Here are some reviews from our Try-On Crew. Watching them try on new designs and reading their feedback has become one of my favorite things about the design process. ❤

Ariel, Try-On Crew

Measurements:

Size: Midflex
Usual Size: L
Height: 5′ 8″
Bust: 41″
Waist: 33.5″
Hips: 42.5″

Ariel says, “I love this outfit – PERIOD! The ribbed top adds a texture to the outfit. The front is fun and flirty, and the back is sexy. This top is so cute and flattering. The girls are securely in there which is great for yoga at the gym.”

Ariel, you look STUNNING! Love that you feel nice and secure, too.

Anna, Try-On Crew

Measurements: 

Size: Extra Smallflex
Usual Size: XS
Height: 5′ 5″
Waist: 26″
Hips: 36″
Bust: 31.5″

From Anna! “This bra is so cute!! I love the style of the scoop neck and the straps are adjustable! The color is stunning and I feel completely secure! By itself, the bra is a winner but when paired with the matching leggings the look is a show-stopper. I love it!”

Omg Anna, YOU are a show-stopper.

Evelyn, Try-On Crew

Measurements: 

Size: Extra Curveflex
Usual Size: 2X
Height: 5′ 6″
Bust: 48.5″
Waist: 41.5″
Hips: 53″

Evelyn’s review! “I usually don’t choose halter tops for myself but this one makes me feel so feminine AND strong??? The straps don’t dig into my shoulders and it’s still supportive which is essential. I want MORE!” 

 

SHOP SEAMLESS

Wanna see more Seamless try-ons??

Your feedback means so much to me! Remember that Seamless sizing is a little different than other POPFLEX collections. Be sure to check the size chart while you shop and ask me any questions you have in the comments!

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Published on January 09, 2024 14:40

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 Backpack

It 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.


 

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SHOP MINI BACKPACK AT TARGET

Make it affordable, but don’t make it cheap.

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!

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Published on December 29, 2023 07:38

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!!! blogilates january 2024 workout calendar


Download PDF




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 ❤.

 

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Published on December 29, 2023 06:59

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.

meal prep tools blender fullstar tiktok viral chopper w&p storage bowls blogilates meal prep pad salad spinner

My favorite meal prep tools

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 w&p porter seal tight 16 oz lunch meal prep bowls

Image: W&P

W&P Porter Storage Bowls

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 seeds

 

2. The viral chopper fullstar veggie chopper gifts for people who like to cook

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

 

oxo salad spinner meal prep tools

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

popflex meal prep pad and 2024 fit 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

 

 

MEASURING CUP SET

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

 

ninja kitchen system blender food processor meal prep tool

Image: Target

Ninja Kitchen System

 

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

 

 

cuisinart immersion blender

Image: Amazon

CUISINART IMMERSION BLENDER

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 foodsaver vacuum sealer for meal prep

Image: Amazon

FOODSAVER VACUUM SEALER

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 stainless steel mixing bowls with grater attachments for easy meal prep

Image: Amazon

MIXING BOWLS

 

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 silicone garlic peeler set

Image: Amazon

GARLIC PEELER SET

 

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

silicone ice cube tray

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

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

SHOP BLACKSTONE GRIDDLE

 

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

popflex iridescent shaker bottle for protein shakes

POPFLEX 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.

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Published on December 29, 2023 06:49

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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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)


 

SHOP BLOGILATES AT TARGET

All new designs under $20!

SURPRISE!

cassey ho blogilates in front of end cap at target

New Gallon Water Bottle Colors!

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!

blogilates at target gallon timer bottle purple

SHOP GALLON WATER BOTTLES

 

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!

blogilates at target mini backpack pink

SHOP MINI BACKPACK

If you love a big tote

SAME.

For the gym, work, or your next trip. This tote holds SO MUCH.

blogilates at target studio tote black

SHOP STUDIO TOTE

Water bottle 2-packs!

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?!

blogilates at target 2-pack motivational water bottles 40 oz citrus

SHOP WATER BOTTLES

 

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.

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Published on December 26, 2023 14:56

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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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)


 

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.

SHOP CLOUD ROMPER

 

cassey ho wearing popflex cloud romper in red wine with christmas hat and tree sweatshirt romper

popflex cloud sweatshirt romper with pockets and shorts red wine

SHOP CLOUD ROMPER

Hope you ❤!

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Published on December 26, 2023 05:16

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