Cassey Ho's Blog, page 26

The Blogilates May 2023 Workout Calendar!!

Hey guys!

Can you believe it’s already MAY?! Omg where did the last few months go?

I always feel a little more energized when summer is on the horizon. I THRIVE in the sunshine and warmth. Having upcoming trips and events don’t hurt in the motivation game either So much to look forward to!

If you’ve been taking it kind of easy with workouts during the winter like me, it’s okay! Sometimes we need to step back for a bit so we can jump back in, feeling refreshed and fully energized. Are you ready?! Let’s go!

HELLO May Workout Calendar!!

Whether you’ve crushed every monthly calendar so far this year or are just getting back to it after a few months off, YOU’VE GOT THIS!

Download JPEG

How to follow the May 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 making following along to this month’s workouts even 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 May 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 (new features!!!)

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

We just added 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

ICYMI we’ve been doing a new challenge every month of 2023! It’s been so much fun!

You can start any of these challenges any time, but you guys I am SO EXCITED for what we have planned for May!

Keep an eye out – it will be announced soon!!

Time to check in!

Tell me you’re IN for this month’s calendar!!

Feel “Fearless” at the Gym With Our Newest Playlist; Taylor Swift vs. Her Exes!

Swifties have been pretttty busy following all of the recent developments in the world of Taylor Swift.

As proud Swifties ourselves, we’re feeling some serious 2010s nostalgia with the start of the highly coveted Eras Tour (if you have tickets, we’re jealous).

Plus, it was recently announced that she split with long-time partner Joe Alwyn. 

This calls for a new playlist

While we hate how famous women’s dating history is such a big focus for magazines everywhere, we have to admit that Taylor Swift has an all-star lineup of celebrity exes… Which makes a song-battle playlist extra fun! 

Let’s be real for a second. Taylor has been through a lot. And a lot of us have used her music to ~get in our feels~ when we’re going through similar situations. Heartbreak, reflection, self-empowerment… she’s got a song for it all. That’s why we’re so excited to put it all together into a playlist that we guarantee you’ll love from start to finish. 

So grab your favorite POPFLEX ‘fit, hit the gym, and jam to this brand new playlist full of nostalgic favorites and new releases. (Hint: It’s also the perfect soundtrack for a car-ride sing-along)

Taylor Swift vs. Her Exes Playlist

Let’s let Taylor and her undeniably talented exes (John Mayer, Harry Styles, and Joe Jonas to name a few) battle it out! Spoiler alert: There are some real bangers on this playlist.

You can find the Taylor vs. Her Exes Playlist on Spotify! It’s around an hour and a half long, making it perfect for a workout! It’s designed with a 15 min warmup and 15 min cool down.

Need a workout idea? Listen to this playlist while you crush the ‘Midnights’ version of the 100 Ab Challenge!

 

Love a good playlist?

Check these out too!

Cozy Vibes Playlist

Y2K Workout Playlist

Imitation is a form of robbery.

I have been waiting on the right moment to post this. I never like making a huge deal out of something that might die out eventually. But things are only getting worse in the world of copying. So, today is the day. I can’t take it anymore. And it’s not just an emotional thing – The anger has become a physical thing.

A few weeks ago, something happened that has never happened to me before.

After I took my late night shower, I stepped out and felt something on my leg. I ran my fingers against it and discovered a whole clump of hair just stuck to my back thigh. I’ve never had that much hair fall out like that before, but I thought maybe that was it for this shower. But then when I went to brush it, another clump the same size fell out. That’s when I got really scared. Something was wrong. The next morning when I woke up, I discovered another clump of hair on the bathroom floor. 3 clumps in less than 7 hours.

I usually don’t feel my stress, as I am someone who blocks pain and keeps going when it comes to hardships. But this time, my body was not allowing it.

In evaluating the first 4 months of this year, it has been…a lot.

–> A stolen design by THE biggest fast fashion company in the entire world.

–> A whole stolen truck full of my tote bags that was never fully recovered.

–> Other brands stealing my videos to advertise their own stuff.

–> Fitness brands stealing my transformation to sell their own programs.

I finally hit some type of a wall, which honestly I didn’t think was possible. And that’s when my hair started falling out.

“Imitation is a form of flattery” is what people try to tell me when my designs and my hard work get stolen. But no. You’ll never understand it until it happens to you.

Imitation is a form of robbery.

I am writing this blog post because I need to vent and also so that I have a record of everything that these offenders have done to me.

So, you ready? Let’s dive in.

SHEIN UPDATE:

Remember when this happened?

 

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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

So many of you guys reposted my post, and because of that, Shein eventually removed the POPFLEX copycat Pirouette skort from their site. I am lucky and privileged to have an audience that backs me up and will FIGHT alongside me. (Forever grateful for you!!)

Throughout all of this, I have learned a lot about fashion law and how hard it is to protect my designs. However, it’s not impossible.

One of you guys alerted your lawyer friends who reached out to me to explain how my skort may actually be copyrightable because of the way I designed it. I honestly didn’t think it was possible. But guess what?

On February 28th, 2023 the United States Copyright Office granted me an official copyright registration for the design of my Pirouette Skort!!!

There are more unique designs I have in the works that I think will likely be copied (I just know it, like how I knew the Pirouette Skort would be copied), so because of this entire experience, I will work proactively to protect my babies in advance.

With that said, protection only goes as far as the money I have to fight anyone in the court of law. The giants know this, so that’s why so many of them just do whatever they want. They know smaller, independent designers could never afford to battle them in legal fees.

All I can say is thank goodness for the court of social media.

HALARA, THE NEXT SHEIN:

Over the past few weeks you guys have been BOMBARDING Me in the DMs with this Halara pink skort ad.

Oh Halara.

I have been avoiding talking about them because I was just hoping they’d go away, but unfortunately they are like those annoying gnats that just won’t leave you alone.

There isn’t much info at all on Halara because the media LOVES focusing on making Shein their favorite fast fashion villain. However, I can tell you that when I stumbled across their site in 2020, I already knew this was the Shein of activewear. How?

Simple.

Things like tacky site design and graphics. I mean, why does this spin wheel thing look like it’s made for a 6 year-old’s bday party? Why is there a stock dog and cat photoshopped onto this photo of a jogger? Why are the product titles so long, as if this were an Amazon listing?

I mean, the signs were clear that this was a “brand” with no soul. It just screams fast fashion gamification.

The prices aren’t as low as Shein, and I think that is strategic. I truly believe that they mark up their products a lot to avoid being called a fast fashion company, even though they are.

In 2021, the Beijing News reported that Halara raised $100 Million in funding from investors including Capital Today, Sequoia, IDG, Hike Capital, and 5Y Capital. The outlet also described Halara as a “fast-fashion outbound e-commerce brand” that was founded in 2020. The company is operated by HK DFS Limited and is based out of Hong Kong. I personally have never bought from Halara but I have friends who have, and they said their package took a couple weeks to get to them because it was shipping directly from China. Quality seems to be generally ok but not great for the price.

So, here we are.

Hello Halara.

I tried to give you a chance. I tried to give us space. But I know you know who I am and I know you’ve been watching me. Let’s start with when I first saw you across the room.

In October 2021, I posted a leggings video that went viral (nearly 4 Million views), and this was the first time I ever tried putting a bottle in my pocket. I was actually surprised that it fit! I hadn’t seen anyone do it before.

Fast forward to August 2022, I got this ad on my IG and it was Halara putting a bottle in their leggings pocket. At first when I saw it, I kinda chuckled and I was like oh wow POPFLEX is big enough to be noticed by Halara!?

But then, things weren’t so funny anymore.

In September 2022, I released my Crisscross Hourglass skort design in this light pink color and filmed myself twirling in my bedroom at a very specific thighs-up angle, wearing a white sports bra on a white background. It got over 3 million views. Fast forward to February 2023, I got a Halara ad of a pink skort being twirled in and filmed at the EXACT SAME ANGLE of my video, using a model with my body type, wearing a white sports bra, in a room with a white background!!!

I am going to be very honest here. I know a bunch of you guys wrote me and called out Halara for stealing my design and the thing is – that is not even what I am mad about. Even though these designs are very similar, unfortunately, I don’t think the design elements on this skort would be considered unique enough to protect. I consider my Pirouette Skort very unique and that is why I fought to copyright it, and won the copyright.

What I am FUMING about is that Halara saw my video, saw how viral it went, decided to film a video copying the brand aesthetic of my video, then targeted my audience with this ad, and then DELIBERATELY created customer confusion, which is why I got an influx of DMs over this pink skort ad!!! They targeted you guys ON PURPOSE! Oh yeah, and I bet they sold sooooo many skorts with this copycat video, just given how many times this single ad was delivered to me personally.

With over $100 million in funding, Halara couldn’t even even hire a marketing company to film some ads with their own aesthetic. So they had to go steal mine? I see you. You’re the Shein of fast fashion and I predict that you’ll be the next thief to copy my designs, just like you did with Outdoor Voices.

And you know what makes me extra mad? Halara has only received positive press for being a dupe brand.

But why are we as a society celebrating dupes?

Dupes are literally copycats of the original that someone else had to work hard to create. Shein duped my skort. Halara duped OV’s dress. The dupe brand doesn’t have to spend any time in product development or take any risk creating something new. They just see success and copy it, for free. Oh how lovely to be a dupe brand.

Be careful where you buy from guys. Please do not support these fast fashion giants that steal from the creativity and hard work of others. Currently there is no information on their supply chain but I bet that once comes out, it’ll bring a lot of things to light.

TIKTOK LEAVES ME TO FEND FOR MYSELF:

UGHHHHHHHH.

More reasons my my hair is falling out. There’s been a whole situation on TikTok and no one working on the platform is able to help me. Other brands are stealing videos and using them as ads that link to their own products!!???

Again, you guys were the first to alert me.

Great. More customer confusion from some pathetic brand called “Celestes?” The weird thing is that you can’t click on their profile. I even tried searching the account. It does not exist. I think these accounts only exist to be ad accounts that link to products so that’s why these brands don’t care. They don’t have to act with any integrity because they don’t have a real social media presence to upkeep. No consumers to keep them accountable.

Oh wait but it doesn’t stop there. Let’s meet some more culprits because I want to ensure I have an internet record of all of these offenders.

There were a few stolen videos from “Esmee Leeuwerik”…

A few stolen videos from from “Yogabarbie”…

“High waist pocket yoga pants” put some ugly green thing over my video to hide my original text…

 

Ah and then this one is my favorite bc they actually went the extra mile to screen shot the exact comments from you guys on MY VIDEO (nearly 25 million views) to paste on their video. Sharkbarbie, your parents really taught you how to be an overachiever huh?

 

The other thing is that back in Summer and Fall 2022, I filled out really tedious copyright infringement forms on TikTok to get these videos taken down (1 form for 1 video, and there are A LOT OF VIDEOS) and it still has not been taken down. Why is that TikTok? Why is it easier for someone to steal my videos than it is for me to get illegal use of my videos on your platform taken down?

Probably because advertisers pay. And money speaks louder.

THE LIES OF THE FITNESS INDUSTRY:

You know, I never actually imagined people would stoop this low, but here we are.

Love how you guys are watching out for me.

Here’s that screenshot blown up because you must read this email from Club Pilates Fort Lee. I could not EVEN when I read the last line…

 

“Here are some REAL pilates members results”!!??????

 

ARE YOU KIDDING ME!??? YOU THINK THAT WOULDN’T GET BACK TO ME? And to do that to another fellow Pilates instructor? I hate this so much. Sure, just take my results from my 90 Day Journey and use it to lure people into buying your program that apparently doesn’t even work bc you had to use pictures you found on the internet to fake progress pics. Yeah, that’s how you run an honest business. All my respect is lost for you Club Pilates. Forever.

Oh and just for funsies.

Another one. On Facebook.

 

Oh. What solution did I use to lose 10 lbs in 15 days without doing any additional diet or exercise, hmm High Protein Foods? HMM I’d love to know.

I can’t even right now. I am fuming. That up there took MONTHS of hard work, YEARS of overcoming an unhealthy mindset, and – ugh – I am tired of explaining myself. This. All of this is disgusting and I hate it here.

What makes my blood boil even more is the amount of innocent people who will be deceived…who will have their hard-earned money lured out of their hands because these shady businesses are willing to do anything for money. They don’t care if they burn you. They don’t care if they hurt you. They just want your money and will steal and lie to get it.

So, is imitation a form of flattery?

No. Imitation is a form of robbery. ESPECIALLY when you imitate and you can’t even improve on what I’ve done. Then why did you do it?! You are just a sad, sad pathetic excuse of a brand.

I am so tired of creating things, only to be robbed, over and over again. Right now, I am trying to find some sense of balance in my life, but there isn’t any. I’m trying to manage the rapid growth of a fully self-funded business while dealing with all of these crazies.

Anyway, it’s 1:07am and it’s time to go to bed. I do feel a little better after writing this all out. Thank you for reading all the way to the end. And thank you for always watching out for me.

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas – For the Mom Who Has Everything, and Wants Nothing

*This list of Mother’s Day gift ideas 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.

Moms are real life superheroes. They’re always doing the most for everyone else, without asking for a thing in return. So… how do you shop for the person who deserves the most, but wants nothing?!

If you’re starting to panic as you shop for Mother’s Day, take a breath. I’ve got you! Gift giving is my love language, so I put together a list of gifts for mom that will help you find the PERFECT thing for the mom in your life.

1. Voluspa Candle

Image: Anthropologie

$32 at Anthropologie

I personally think you can’t go wrong with a candle – and this one is nice enough to make your mom feel extra special. The ornate detailing on the jar, the special lux packaging – it certainly feels like a gift but it won’t break the bank. My mom keeps this on her counter only burning on special occasions, savoring it for as long as she can.

BONUS: Anthropologie will gift wrap it and send a card! (For a fee of course).

2. Ninja Creami

Image: Ninja

$230 on Ninja

For the mom with a sweet tooth. You can’t go wrong with this TikTok viral kitchen gadget! With a few simple ingredients (or as many mix-ins as she desires) and a push of a button, your mom can homemade soft serve ice cream.

3. POPFLEX Cora Backpack

$165 at POPFLEX

For the mom of littles, or the mom who is always on the go! Or honestly…for anyone. I have one and I love it so much.

The Cora Backpack has pockets for ALL of the essentials, including a fully lined shoe compartment and a yoga mat strap. This bag makes an amazing diaper bag, weekend errand bag, or carry on bag.

4. Kendra Scott Friendship Bracelet

Image: Kendra Scott

$70 at Nordstrom

I was looking for something dainty, but sturdy to add to my mom’s collection. She has these cute sparkly hoops she loves – cue a sparkly a bracelet.

This one is nice enough to feel like a forever piece, but not so expensive like a finer piece. The adjustable band is perfect for my mom who often finds bangles too big.

PLUS – how cute is it that this is called a friendship bracelet? My mom has certainly become one of my best friends as I approach 30!

 

5. Salad Freak Cookbook

Image: Amazon

$20 at Amazon

My stunning sister mentioned to me a few months postpartum, that she and her husband were trying to incorporate more salads into their diets. I said – I’ve got just the thing for THAT!

This book is such a beautiful book we both keep is visible in our kitchens. It has wonderful inspo for spicing up your salads and experimenting with seasonal flavors. The ingredient lists can be hefty and pricey – but great inspiration. The recipes still work, even if you leave out half of the ingredients like I do.

This is perfect for the mom who loves to spend time experimenting in the kitchen especially with seasonal salads.

 

6. Countertop Towel Warmer

Image: Amazon

$100 on Amazon

Is your mom perpetually COLD? Maybe she lives in a cold place? What about a countertop towel warmer to turn those omg “why did I get out” moments into “wrapped in a warm hug” moments.

This one is just a jumping off point – there are many different towel warmers out there! Or maybe she would prefer a heated blanket?   

7. Blogilates Stainless Steel 62 oz Bottle

$35 at Target

Give the gift of ice cold water that she can carry with her at all times! This bottle is not only aesthetically pleasing, but functional too. It keeps drinks cold for hours, has a built-in handle for easy carrying, and best of all – keeps mom hydrated! She’ll wonder how she ever left the house without it.

8. BARE Botanics Coffee Scrub

Image: Amazon

$25 on Amazon

I recently gifted this to a mom-to-be (and I got one for myself because it’s so good)!

Everyone appreciates a little moment in the day to pamper themselves! This body scrub has amazing reviews and I can confirm from experience that it leaves your skin feeling soft and hydrated. The seller is also a small business – they sent a thank you note in the package which I adored.

On top of that, the box came so cutely wrapped in craft paper, tied with a twine bow making this really feel like a gifting experience, even though you can just 2 day it right off prime.

 

9. Hair Mask and Massager

Images: Amazon

Scalp Mask -$32 Scalp Massager - $8

This combos is for anyone who’s hair / scalp is needing a little TLC – Looking out for those new moms! My college BFF recently had a baby and this was the perfect little pick me up to send her as she was adjusting to her new normal. She loved it!

10. Wine Glasses

Image: Zwiesel Glas

$56 at Target

Moms are notorious for hanging onto the same glassware for decades. It probably has to do with being so busy and the whole not ever buying anything for herself thing. I say it’s time to give her an upgrade.

These glasses are technically for wine, but they work just as well for non-alcoholic drinks. Aren’t they cute?! They’re made with beautiful crystal, but they’re also dishwasher safe (v important).

11. Nespresso Vertuo POP+ 

Image: Nespresso

$129 at Nespresso

For the coffee lover in your life.

We all dream of aesthetic lattes made with strong espresso (make that a double if you’re a mom). Nespresso makes it possible to craft your own espresso bevvies at home without dealing with an expensive and technical espresso machine.

The newest Nespresso model is compact and CUTE. You can pick her favorite color and avoid taking up precious counter space.

12. A Super Thick Yoga Mat

$79 at POPFLEX

For the active mom who needs a little extra cushion for her joints, or the one who’s been using the same yoga mat since 2003. Time for an upgrade! The CloudCushion mat is extra thick – 0.5″ to be exact! It’s made with super grippy vegan suede and a super cute pattern.

Happy Mother’s Day shopping!

You Wanted More Drama… Introducing The All New Bell Bottoms!

Hey guys!

You told me it wasn’t flared enough…

And you know what?

Well hello drama queen glad u spoke up bc I LOVE ME A DRAMATIC BELL BOTTOM!!!

 

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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

When I designed the bell bottoms, I kept all of the elements that made the my viral flare sell out (in a day whaa). But this time I added a full onpiece on the side seam and OMG IT IS SO FUN TO WEAR!

Shop Bell Bottoms

Here’s what makes my POPFLEX Bell Bottoms unique:

invisible pockets (bonded the edge to create a beautiful seamless effect when there’s nothing in your pocket)
anti- (no front seam)
effect with the crossover waistband
no pinching bc no elastic in the waistband
squat-proof bc I’m using high quality ButterSmooth fabric that’s not see through, it’s soft and it’s RESILIENT (this last one matters bc they will not fall down throughout the day – I know you know what I’m talking about)
seam to give your booty a rounding and lifting effect
XXS-3X
3 inseams! (29”, 31”, 34”)

Shop Bell Bottoms

I love that we can bring a 70s vibe into our activewear wardrobe! And honestly, you can wear these with a cute sports bra like I did, or dress them up a bit with a crop top!

How to find the perfect Bell Bottom length

I’m wearing the S in 31” with chunky sneakers and I’m 5’5”. To find your perfect length, measure from your inner thigh crease down to the floor with shoes. Keep your leg straight!

So tell me IS IT FLARED ENOUGH FOR YOU!??

 

We Need to Talk Real Sustainability…

Hey guys!

I’ve been thinking…about sustainability, fast fashion, and everything in between.

You see, I was raised by Asian immigrant parents who ingrained in me the skill of saving everything. They saved plastic grocery bags and used them as trash bags. They saved pickle jars and used them as tupperware. They saved clothes by evolving them!

When my dress ripped, my mom turned it into shirt. And when the shirt was too tattered to wear, she turned it into a rag to clean the house with.

To waste was a crime.

Honestly, my parents are 2 of the most sustainable people I’ve ever met! (And wayyyyy before it became trendy.) They taught me how to prolong the life of everything I use, and I try to apply their philosophy of reducing waste into the POPFLEX culture.

Since Saturday was Earth Day, I thought…what a better day than today to launch something special I’ve been working on!

 

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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

Introducing, PPCYCLE

An intimate place swap your clothes! Because honestly, true sustainability is either:

1. Not buying any new clothes ever (like my dad ) or

2. Finding ways to extend the life cycle of your current clothes

 

How to get started with PPCYCLE

Give your POPFLEX and Blogilates items a new life!

1. Download the BODY By Blogilates app (free in Apple App Store or Google Play store)

2. Head to the Social feature (which is new and so much fun, btw!)

3. Go to PPCYCLE

Here, you can:

Post and discover pre-loved POPFLEX at low pricesBrowse what others are parting ways withPost about something you’re searching for!

 

You can read more about how to post and what to expect from
PPCYCLE here!!

It’s not perfect, but it’s a start! I’ve been sitting on this idea for wayyyy too long, trying to think of every single detail to perfect. Finally, I was like you know what? We just need to do it and make it better as we go. Soo think of this as the Beta version

Sustainability is a journey

In full transparency, even though I’m now a part of the fashion industry, and I hate the way things are being done – I think I have the opportunity to create change. POPFLEX is a mini baby compared to these fast fashion giants, but I don’t want to leave this earth without making impact. And I really mean that.

 

Meet The Superdress! A Dress Designed for Women’s Bodies

Hey guys!

I truly believe that women’s clothing has to be designed in a way that moves WITH our bodies, not against it. I’m sick of dresses that restrict me!

Like can’t I pick up something I dropped without worrying if my underwear is showing? Can’t I not have to cross my legs bc I’m afraid of someone is going to look up my skirt? I’m tired of it.

I feel like I’ve got work to do outside the activewear space too if I’m going to make a real change in women’s clothing…

Anyway, I want to share with you my latest POPFLEX workout dress design.

The POPFLEX Tiebreaker Superdress!

 

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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

Shop The Superdress

I’m playing with a brand new silhouette and fabric

And omg I’m loooove how sleek it turned out. Here’s what’s up:

anti- shorts with no front seam
pockets cuz duh
stretchy lightweight fabric bc breathing and eating are v important
thick, adjustable straps bc comfort and all our torsos are diff
square neckline bc Bridgerton boobs obvs
waist snatching panel cuz always
slit bc it’s cute but also helps with leg movement
longer skirt in the back for booty coverage
XXS-3X

I’m also trying a new pattern that’s a bit less twirly so that it gives more of a simplistic elegance. I love the sleek lines so much.

Let’s talk sizing

I’m 5’5”, normally a small, wearing an XS HOWEVER I think you should get your normal size. I am very very particular when it comes to dresses. I size down in dresses for all brands bc I like the extra snatch it gives my waist and the extra lift it gives my boobs, but I think you’ll be safer in your normal size! Also one more thing!

If you plan on getting black, size up from your normal size! The black dye made the fabric a tad less stretchy so you’ll want to account for that.

Shop The Superdress!

The Superdress is on popflexactive.com in 4 colors: Black, Terracotta, Peppercorn, and Cloudy Blue.

Which is calling your name?

 

8 Fun Ways to Switch Up Your Workout Routine (And How to Know It’s Time)

We have all heard the refrain: consistency is key. Whether it’s about maintaining a clean house, sticking to a solid nightly skincare routine or calendaring your daily sweat sessions, routine is the best way to get results. 

With that said, your fitness routine doesn’t have to look the same in a standard gym or studio all the time.

Your Signs to Switch it Up

If you’re wondering if it’s time for you to switch up your fitness routine and head out of a traditional sweat space, here are a few things to look out for. 

1. You’re bored

If you’ve been following the same weekly strength and cardio routine or booking the same spin and barre classes for years, you might hit workout fatigue. Perhaps hitting the gym feels like a chore or you’re counting the seconds til your class is over. It’s natural — and a key sign that your routine needs a refresh. 

2. You are getting injured

When you put your body through the same motions over and over again, you can injure your muscles, joints and ligaments, as they aren’t getting the chance to rest and recover. Switching up your schedule allows you to still stay healthy while helping you heal from any overuse injuries.  

3. You’ve hit a plateau

When you perform the same exercises often, your nervous system catches on and becomes more efficient in recruiting muscles. In simpler terms, the more you do the same exercises repeatedly, you may burn fewer calories and build muscle at a slower rate. If you’ve stalled completely (without your sleep or stress changing significantly!), this may be a key sign that it is time for a change. 

Change is Good

Habits are good, but so is change. Trust us: your body and mind will love the benefits of switching up your stale routine. Here are some of our favorites:

1. Improves strength, flexibility and performance

When you recruit the same muscles over and over again, you could be neglecting a whole set of them, including those oh-so important stabilizing muscles. If you switch up your routine, you can incorporate new muscle groups, flexibility training and cardiorespiratory activities for a more well-rounded fitness program.

Plus, you can move in more planes of motion. Maybe you tend to stick to front-to-back exercises or up-and-down movements. By changing it up, you can add in some side-to-side and rotational movements too. All of this can help increase your overall performance and strength down the line. 

2. Keeps your brain healthy

Exercise isn’t just about the body. Integrating new skills and new movements in your fitness routine can help your neurons fire better as they learn new things and stay engaged. Hello, better memory and a healthier mind! 

3. Builds relationships

Exercising and engaging in movement is one of the best ways to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships. Recruit a friend to embark with you on a new routine or join a fitness club or meetup group to kick off your new schedule with potential pals. 

4. Beats boredom

Does anyone like being bored? We thought so. By varying your fitness schedule, you can stay motivated, excited, engaged — and consistent. You’re less likely to miss your daily movement if you’re eager to do it. 

So, What Should I Do?

If you want to switch up your routine, of course you can adjust your tempo, reps and movements in the gym. But, working out can be whatever you want it to be. And for us, some of our favorite ways to beat boredom and reintroduce excitement into our health journey are things that take place outside of a gym and a studio — and sometimes don’t even feel like a workout! 

Here are some ideas:

1. Hit the water

Kayaking is a great form of exercise that engages your core and builds upper body strength. If you’re not keen on kayaking, opt for standup paddleboarding. SUP is a great core workout for both your abs and lower back. Plus, you can enjoy nature, which benefits your physical and mental health. 

2. Hole in one

A day on the green golfing involves flexibility, cardio and strength! Swinging concentrates core strength, while walking between holes can add up to four to eight miles. And, yes, a day at Topgolf counts! 

3. Ride time

Taking your trusty bike for a spin around the neighborhood or beyond builds lower body strength and offers a low-impact cardio activity. It’s environmentally healthy too! 

4. Take hold

Both indoor and outdoor rock climbing and bouldering use upper and lower body strength and build forearm strength, which can help you pick up heavier weights down the line! Plus, rock climbing uses mental work and strategy to keep your mind engaged.

5. Court time

Pickleball isn’t just trendy; it’s a cardio workout! Pickleball is a low-impact aerobic exercise option that also works your forearms, biceps, triceps and lower body. And, moving around the court is a form of agility training.  

6. Lace it up

Slap on a pair of rollerblades or roller skates for a low-key hip and leg burn that works two key areas of your tush. Skating also creates body stability and challenges and builds balance. 

7. Hot girl walks 

A brisk walk can boost heart health and strengthen your lower body. Add in some friends for a healthy swap to your traditional happy hour. For a more adventurous spin, head to a local trail for a hike. Not only does hiking promote heart and lung health, it tones large muscle groups in your lower body, as well as smaller stabilizing muscles. We don’t mind soaking up the Vitamin D too! 

8. Dance party

Dancing — whether in class or just for a few minutes around your empty kitchen — can work minute muscles that you might miss otherwise. Plus, it improves agility, flexibility and balance. And, you can’t have a dance party without smiling!

@leahsykesmusic this is ur sign. there are sooooooooo many fun ways to be active. #workouttips #swimming #exercisefitness #whatworksforyou ♬ original sound – Leah Sykes

 

Listen to That Intuition

If the thought of your normal fitness routine conjures up a sense of doom and dread or you find yourself injured, it might be your cue to opt into some untraditional, out-of-the-box (or gym, in this case!) movement. 

Working out doesn’t have to look the same every day, and it doesn’t have to get complicated to swap a stale schedule. 

What are your favorite ways to switch up your routine?

Let us know in the comments!

How I Made My Protein Influencer Gift Box!

Hey guys!

Part 1 was about proving that Blogilates protein could sell so I create the Asian dessert-inspired flavors I really wanted. Part 2 was about developing a protein bar that I’d actually want to eat for fun.

Now, it’s time for Part 3 of the latest Blogilates Nutrition journey.

PART 3: THINK INSIDE THE BOX.

 

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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

When it comes to love languages, I love gift giving.

I get so much joy out of curating the perfect present for the right person. And on top of that, I love making the unboxing experience look pretty. So for launches, I get really deep into designing the influencer PR gift box!

Shop Blogilates Nutrition

Ube and matcha are already such cool colors so I wanted to let that lead the way for the aesthetics of this box. I was also inspired by the interior design of the most beautiful burger joint I’ve ever seen in my life. I found a pic of this place called “Bun” in Milan and OMGGGG, it looks like an ube and matcha dream!

My favorite part of the box is the custom illustrations right when you open it. The items on the shelf reflect what’s inside the box It’s these details that get me soooooo excited.

Obvi I filled the box with my launch items: the snickerdoodle protein bar, choco pb protein bar, ube soft serve protein, matcha milkshake protein

But also…I wanted to build it out even more…

I wanted to add an adorable purple waffle maker not only because pragmatically you can make waffles with the protein powder…but aesthetically, the purple was imperative to building out the ube color theme!

To drive the purple vibe home, I took the waffle maker and the shaker bottle out of their boxes and put them in purple organza bags on top of a bed of purple crinkle paper.

To me, THE DETAILS MATTER.

And I obsess over them.

It’s been nice to set aside time to write cards to my friends. And then seeing them open up these boxes and trying the goodies for the first time is such a thrill!

I’m picking 2 people to win my protein influencer gift box!

I saved 2 influencer PR boxes to give away to you guys so you can experience your own unboxing! You can enter by following the instructions below. Good luck!!

1. Head to this Instagram post
2. Comment which item looks yummiest!
3. Tag a friend and ask them which item they think looks yummy.
4. Make sure you both are following @Blogilates

Giveaway is open to all ages, US only. (Sorry, it’s international food rules ) Ends April 22, 2023 11:59pm pst.

 

The Best Non-Alcoholic Wines to Sip All Summer

At the beginning of this year, I set out on a journey to find the best non-alcoholic wines and wine alternatives. The goal was to put some kind of guide together for Valentine’s Day, and well, here we are mid-April.

I’ve been exploring non-alcoholic drinks and the sober curious lifestyle since last summer, so I know just how the demand for these products is exploding. I’m starting to see alcohol-free beverage shops pop up even here in Indiana.

Yet I still severely underestimated how big of an undertaking “finding the best NA wines” was going to be. Every day I’d scroll by a new, aesthetic NA wine brand popping into my ads – I knew I had to stop somewhere but can you blame me when the marketing is so good?!

After months of NA wine taking over my kitchen counter, I’m finally ready to share the sips I loved most. I did my best to gather some variety so you can find your summer drink, no matter what your “wine type” normally is.

How non-alcoholic wine is made

I have to admit, I always assumed that non-alcoholic wine was just rebranded Welch’s Sparkling Grape Juice. After chatting with some brands, I learned a lot about the process of making wine without alcohol.

I was so wrong about the grape juice thing.

Alcohol-removed wine

Most of the brands I tried were alcohol-removed wine. That means they’re initially made just like “real” wine! First, specially selected grapes are fermented. Then, there are a few common techniques to remove the alcohol:

Vacuum distillation – The wine is heated to about 85 degrees to gently boil off the alcohol, without disturbing the delicate flavors and aromas.Reverse osmosis – Wine is pumped through high pressure, where the alcohol is separated through a semi-permeable membrane.Spinning cone technology – Another way to gently remove the alcohol without high temperatures or pressures, so the wine can maintain its flavor.

The final product typically contains less than 0.5% ABV.

Dealcoholized wines have come a long way, and each brand has its own unique technique to make their product special. Many blend with small amounts of fruit juice, or add other flavorings and sweeteners.

Wine alternatives

Other non-alcoholic wines never contain alcohol to begin with. These are usually comprised of a base (called the “body”) that is often some kind of tea, plus a carefully selected blend of fruits, spices, and acids.

Best White: Surely Sauvignon Blanc

Shop Surely Sauvignon Blanc

I should disclose that I’m a white wine girly. Sometimes I’ll go for a rosé, but rarely red wine. I’m also very prone to migraines and unfortunately, red wine seems to be a pretty significant trigger for me.

That being said, Surely’s Sauvignon Blanc was not only my favorite non-alcoholic white wine, but possibly my favorite overall.

Flavor: Crisp and tart and I truly don’t think I would have questioned the lack of alcohol if no one told me there wasn’t any.

Composition: Dealcoholized Sauvignon Blanc, pear, guava, and a touch of cane sugar

Pairing: I won’t pretend to be an expert in wine pairings, so I’ll relay what Surely recommends for their NA sauv blanc: A simple salad or chicken entreé, or maybe even a curry, soup, or noodle dish.

Best “True” Red: Lautus Savvy Red

Shop Lautus Savvy Red

Is “true red” legit sommelier terminology? I seriously doubt it, but you’ll see why I’m specifying in just a second.

Lautus Savvy Red is a dealcoholized Cabernet Sauvignon Blend. This is definitely not as dry as your typical Cab, and I know this because I liked it (sorry traditional Cab, you’re too dry for me).

However, to me, this definitely tasted the most like “real” red wine out of everything I sampled.

Flavor: Red and black berries with a touch of oak

Composition: Shiraz, Pinotage, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon

Pairing: According to Lautus, Savvy Red is best paired with a slow cooked Coq Au Vin or a juicy burger or steak

Proxies Red Ember

My favorite NA red wine alternative.

Shop Proxies Red Ember

I should have known this would be one of my favorites when I saw “spicy” on the label. With every sip I took of Proxies Red Ember, I discovered a new layer of flavor and fell more in love.

I filed this red wine alternative separately because it really doesn’t taste like any red wine I’ve had before…but in a good way!

Here’s the flavor journey you’ll experience with Red Ember:

Cab Sauv grapes with blackberry and blueberryBlack tea and French oak bodySpice from black pepper, ginger, coffee, and a cayenne finish

 

Best Non-Alcoholic Rosé: Sovi Sparkling Rosé

Sovi Sparkling Rosé

Sovi Sparkling Rosé is delightful AND portable. Canned wine is usually not my thing, but I think this one officially converted me.

There’s no reason for my resistance in the first place, considering I rarely finish a bottle of wine and basically never finish an already open bottle in the fridge.

All that to say, the can is perfect. Sovi’s non-alcoholic rosé is giving girls’ night, day at the lake, and bachelorette weekend. It’s fun, cute, and delicious…and won’t stab you in the back with a crushing hangover. I really appreciate this as someone in my 30s.

Flavor: Bright and dry, with notes of strawberries and cream and red grapefruit

Composition: Pinot Noir, Tempranillo

Pairing: Sovi says this pairs with anything, but is specifically good with charcuterie or salmon salad

Honorable Mentions

Overall, I was truly surprised to find so many non-alcoholic wines and wine alternatives that I enjoyed and would purchase and drink again.

So while these products weren’t at the very top of my list, they were VERY good.

Töst

Shop Töst

Töst is a sparkling non-alcoholic wine alternative with a white tea base. It’s light, slightly sweet, and refreshing, but I wouldn’t say it tastes like a lot like wine. That’s doesn’t mean it’s not lovely to sip on though.

It comes in two flavors: Töst and Töst Rosé – both were delish but I think the original was my favorite.

Flavor: Crisp citrus with a dry finish

Composition: White tea, white cranberry, ginger, blue agave

Pairing: I think this one could go with basically any savory food, from charcuterie to pizza

Empress Ficus Zing Honey Wine

Empress Wine Alts are different from anything else I tried because they’re fermented brews with a kombucha base. Ficus Zing Honey Wine is the product of Empress’ collaboration with Oslo Brewing Co. It’s technically a mead, which has the composition of beer, but is fermented like a wine.

I could definitely taste the similarities to beer in this wine alternative, but it was still sweet and easy to sip on.

Flavor: Fig, ginger, and honey, with notes of cardamom and cacao

Composition: Kombucha-based honey wine

Proxies Pink Salt

Shop Proxies Pink Salt

Strawberry rhubarb wine lovers, rejoice!

Proxies Pink Salt is the perfect wine alternative for sipping by the pool or by the fire with friends. It has a white tea base, which makes it slightly sweet and refreshing, but it’s also a little tarte from the hints of fruit.

My favorite part about Pink Salt is the spice. It’s not “spicy” like the Red Ember, but contains Sichuan peppercorn and a hint of sea salt that comes through at the end of each sip.

This is the Proxies take on Rosé and I’m here for it.

Lautus Sparkling Brut

Shop Lautus Brut

If you’re into Champagne, this zero proof alternative is bubbly and buttery, just like the real thing. It even has a cork you can pop whether you’re celebrating with friends, or just relaxing poolside.

Flavor: Super bubbly with notes of white peach, citrus blossom, and fresh apple.

Composition: Chardonnay

Pairing: Seafood, celebration

What NA wines did I miss?

Let me know what I should try next in the comments!