Cassey Ho's Blog, page 16

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!

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!

 

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.

 

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The Pillow Packable Puffer Jacket

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

SHOP PILLOW PACKABLE PUFFER

SHOP PILLOW PACKABLE PUFFER

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.

 

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.

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 months

The dark and cold aren’t holding us back any longer!

1. Switch up your routine

Forcing 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 workout

Maybe 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 schedule

Take 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 success

Think 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 day

If 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.

@mary_skinner how to love winter & slay your hibernation era this is inspired by hygge, so if you’re not familiar with that, I really recommend looking it up because it’s life changing. #hibernationera #hibernation #hygge #romanticizeyourlife ♬ original sound – mary

4. Incorporate JOY

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 yourself

Above 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.

 

These flared leggings have sold out more times than I can count

Hey guys!

TRUST ME. You’ll understand once it’s on your body.

I am so sorry these took forever to get back in stock but now they’re backkkk in 9 sizes and 5 inseams (yayyy!!!) so you’ll def be able to find your perfect fit!

These are my viral POPFLEX Crisscross Hourglass Flared Leggings

…which have sold out so many times I can’t even count anymore.

 

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SHOP CRISSCROSS HOURGLASS FLARED LEGGINGS

squat proof
pockets
crisscross waistband for hourglass effect
anti-pinch
anti-
flares below knee to lengthen leg
booty shaping V back seam
XXS-3X
5 inseams: 27”, 29”, 31”, 34”, 37”

I am 5’5” wearing small 31” inseam. Make sure to measure from your inner thigh crease to the floor with a straight leg and in the shoes you want to wear these flared leggings with! Do not stop at your ankle bone.

If you have any questions let me know! I’ll be answering your comments! Love you guys!

 

SHOP LEGGINGS

The crewneck that changed how I feel about crewnecks

Hey guys!

I think this is the first crewneck sweater I’ve ever liked in my life. Normally they make me look so bland. But finally, FINALLY it’s actually DOING SOMETHING.

I really do enjoy taking closet basics and giving them a little makeover to 1. give them more personality and 2. to better suit my needs (pockets duh).

 

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SHOP CLOUD CREWNECK

The Cloud Crewneck Sweater

Super soft, cozy Cloud fabric
Romantic sleeves
Hourglass illusion
Dropped shoulder
Secret pockets

The POPFLEX Cloud Crewneck comes in XXS/XS, S/M, L/XL, and 1X/3X. I’m 5’5” wearing the S/M and I love the fit bc it’s already oversized. I personally wouldn’t want to size up to L/XL bc I don’t want the extra length (I like when my booty shows) but if you like it longer, you absolutely can!

It’s avail rn on POPFLEX through the link below and yes I do ship worldwide !

SHOP CLOUD CREWNECK

 

Let me know if you have any questions! I’ll be answering in the comments!

The 2023 Blogilates Team Gift Guide!

Hey guys!

It’s my favorite time of year!!! Gifting is my love language and I tend to go a little crazy when it’s time for holiday shopping (Sam can confirm).

But sometimes it’s hard to come up with THE perfect thing for everyone, you know? I always turn to the Blogilates team for ideas and you guys…they are always SO GOOD. I started putting together a gift guide with their recs to help you with holiday shopping too!

Here is the 2023 Blogilates Team Gift Guide! I hope you love!

The Blogilates Team Gift Guide The BEST hair tool

BLOWOUT TOOL - $57

I love this brush so much. The fact that it gives me a professional blow out look for someone who is a super amateur when it comes to hair – SO COOL.

OOEY GOOEY HALF ZIP - $89

I am obsessed with this! The fabric is so thick and cozy but the collar and half zip add so much elevated structure. Amazing!

Cassey @blogilates 

CEO + Head Designer

The gift of better sleep

MANTA SLEEP MASK - $35

“Was gifted this from a friend and have not stopped using it. My sleep quality has been elevated and am more likely to sleep through the night than without it. It is adjustable so comfortable for any size and no pressure on the lashes for the girlies with extensions ” – Amanda

SUPERSCULPT MIDI SHORTS - $47

“I live in these shorts 24/7. It’s the perfect length to work out in, sleep in, wear around the house, and run errands. Usually paired with an oversized t-shirt or the Half Zip Warm Up Hoodie.”

Amanda 

Production Manager

A candle upgrade

Clay Wax Warmer - $16

“I LOVE candles but I cannot take throwing away the jar they come in which honestly is just my hoarding skills lol. I turned to wax melts because I don’t have to break my heart and throw away jars or, deal with that little bit of wax that’s still there but just won’t burn.” – Lexi

The comfiest sweatpants

POPFLEX Cloud Rollover Sweatpants - $70

“I wear them literally every day. I promise I wash them. They’re just super comfortable. I am genuinely obsessed with the waistband – Doesn’t dig into my stomach and get all pinchy. Love love love.”

Lexi @iamlexiking
Social Media Lead

A waterless diffuser

CANOPY DIFFUSER - $99

“A waterless diffuser but it is STRONG.” – Jaimee 

Pair the diffuser with an Aroma Kit! Jaimee’s fav is the summery Skinny Confidential kit.

Jaimee @thtfitgirl
Content Producer

An at-home spa experience

SCALP & BODY SCRUB - $15

“This scrub has done wonders for my skin and scalp. The lavender scent is so calming too. I’ve honestly gifted the lotion and perfume from this collection too so it’s a full trio set. I’m obsessed and I tell all of my friends to buy Frenshe!!” – Kristen

CRISSCROSS HOURGLASS BELL BOTTOMS - $75

“For when you want to be comfy but elevated during your errands or coffee run. The bell bottoms add a dramatic flare to my daily fit and I love them. They also have pockets so it’s a win-win all around. – Kristen

Kristen @k.klochko
Project Manager for Brand Relations & Ecommerce

A tracker for the essentials

TILE - $18

“As someone who misplaces things far too often, this tile is truly the gift that keeps on giving. I’m thankful for it every time I can’t find my keys in a hurry and I can quickly locate it via the app on my phone! (Pro tip: put one in your luggage so you can track it if it’s ever lost).” – Allie

AUDREY TANK - $46

“This top is the PERFECT transitional piece. It’s become a packing staple in my wardrobe because it pairs with leggings for a casual afternoon and jeans for the evening!”

Allie

Designer

For the one who has everything

Sephora Favorites Perfume Sampler Set - $85

“This feels illegal its so good haha – you get a Sephora perfume sampler (this one has 16 samples!) and then you get a gift card to buy a FULL size of any of the ones you sample! It’s a perfect gift because they get to pick their fav scent!” – Jen-Ai

POPFLEX Cocoon Coat - $96

“I can’t wear this coat out without getting questions on where it’s from. It’s the perfect gift for that girl on your list who loves her style as much as her comfort.”

Jen-Ai @cant.jenai.it
Director of Marketing

*This post 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.

Did we just create the perfect sweatpants?!

Hey guys!

It’s tiiiiiiiiiiiimmmeeee for sweatpants season and I truly do believe I’ve made the perfect sweatpants thanks to your feedback.

The POPFLEXOoey Gooey Drawstring Sweatpants are made from the same super stretchy, super soft, and luxuriously dense fabric that the Ooey Gooey Mockneck Sweater and Ooey Gooey Half Zip are made from! It’s so comfy and feels soooooo good on body.

SHOP OOEY GOOEY SWEATPANTS

The perfect sweatpants search is over

WHY is it so hard to find good sweatpants?! They’re always too tight in the worst places, too saggy, or just sooo unflattering. We’re trying to be comfy but like…still cute.

I thought I nailed the perfect sweatpants about a year ago, but you asked for a drawstring! And you were right.

I love the drawstring addition because you can tighten as you please (great for those of you with big booties/small waists).

I also love that you can wear this high-waisted or rolled down for a low-rise look!

 

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SHOP SWEATPANTS

This sweatpant comes in XXS to 3X and I am 5’5” wearing S! In case you’re wondering, the inseam is 30.5” but there’s also a drop crotch that sits a few inches away from your crotch (go ahead and add that to the inseam length) so tall girlies, you’re covered!

I hope you love love love these sweats bc I am obsessed. Thank you for your feedback always. We make the coolest stuff when we do it together.

SHOP OOEY GOOEY SWEATPANTS

The Blogilates December 2023 Workout Calendar!!

Hey guys!

Okay 2023…you are officially moving TOO FAST. Can we pause for a sec before the holidays really take over and suddenly 2024 is just… here?

First, let’s breathe. And then, think about your year up until this very moment. What were your most joyful moments? The achievements you’re most proud of, big or small? What are you dreaming about for 2024?

I like to physically write everything down, usually in my Fit Planner so everything is in one place but anything works! Gotta take credit for the work we’ve done and manifest what’s coming.

That’s it! Thanks for joining me in one of my favorite end-of-year activities! Totally add or change things as you need. No pressure to have everything figured out now . And now, I give you the LAST workout calendar of 2023! You ready?!

Here's your December Workout Calendar!!!

Download PDF

How to follow the December 2023 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 December 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 PPCYCLE, 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 finish out 2023 strong, so we can dream even bigger in 2024!! Let me know you’re IN in the comments .