You don’t need a docent to guide you through the Atlanta street art scene, which now boasts over 1000 murals (though you could learn a lot on one of these walking tours). Just hop on a bike, a skateboard, or lace up your sneaks to check out artwork that is as inspiring as it is Insta-worthy. And, to celebrate Atlanta’s growing muralist community, the ATL1000 awareness campaign has big things planned, including a mural painting workshop for kids! Keep reading for our favorite murals around town, below.
This Lela Brunet masterpiece stretches out across several walls of a Buckhead parking deck. If you're looking for a vibrant background with "Atlanta" clearly repeated throughout, this is your spot. One thing to note, however, is that each wall is only about 3-feet high. If you're hoping for a massive backdrop, look elsewhere, but this would be a great backdrop for a younger child or crawler to pose in front of.
Tiny Doors ATL is an Atlanta-based art project that installs 7-inch door sculptures by artist Karen Anderson Singer in neighborhoods or at institutions. Door #658 (it's 658 times the size of a traditional tiny door) is located on the Eastside Beltline Trail, and is so big that it will make YOU feel tiny!
Find it: At the Edge OTB (behind the giant bull), 670 DeKalb Ave. SE
This 70-foot mural of the late Rep. John Lewis is located on the east side of the current Renaissance Walk building. Lewis was a politician and civil rights leader who served as the U.S. Representative for Georgia's 5th congressional district. Located in an area of downtown with much historical significance, you'll be walking in Lewis' footsteps if you go to pay this mural a visit. The Butler Street YMCA building, where civil rights leaders met in the 1960s, is directly south of this mural, and dozens of historical churches and businesses surround it in the Sweet Auburn Historic District.
Moms, grab your coffee and head on over to this mural in Castleberry Hill—an historic neighborhood known for its industrial-to-arts vibe—to snap a picture of yourself in your natural environment: wings up. While you're at it, put the Castleberry Hill Art Stroll (every 2nd Friday) on your agenda. You'll visit fascinating and diverse galleries and get a taste of this little corner of Atlanta!
Find It: 217 Walker St. SW
Painted on the side of Atlanta's famous "Disco Kroger" (it used to be a swinging night club called Limelight Disco, where Andy Warhol purportedly hung out in the 80's), this depiction of the building's former glory days by Yoyo Ferro is actually quite glorious, itself.
Another Castleberry Hill mural, this one pretty much sums it up. And in the family, there couldn't be a better spot than this one to snap a photo of your kiddos getting along.
This is one of two murals in Decatur painted by @thekillamari for @livingwallsatl as part of the Laura Patricia Calle Grant, which accepts proposals for a public art project that informs and promotes awareness on social equality, feminism, immigrtants' rights, LGBTQ rights, and cultural diversity. The colors chosen for this mural are inspired by the Pan-Sexual pride flag.
Lela Brunet is an Atlanta artisit known for depicting contrast between a female form and colorful patterns. This particular mural joins those in @outerspaceproject—a week-long event of art, murals, live music, action sports in the ATL—along the #path400 trail in Buckhead.
We love the merry marigolds of this mural that's painted on the side of a shipping container. Find it near the chicken coop area of the Berea Mennonite farm on Bouldercrest in East Atlanta. The small urban church has multiple acres under cultivation and grows over 70 different organic vegetables on the east edge of Atlanta, and sells its food at local farmers’ markets. It also provides a first fruits tithe to the community, distributed through a free clinic.
In Grant Park, you'll find this cheerful mural called "Vaso de Flores" by artist Yoyo Ferro @yoyoferro. Big, bright, and bold (also very near The Beacon, in case you're shopping or dining nearby), we could all use a vase of flowers this year.
Find It: In the vicinity of 1039 Grant St. SE
Located in Buckhead, this mural by Thomas Turner is called "Moon Seeker." It's dedicated to Henry Aaron, legendary MLB right fielder and current SVP of the Atlanta Braves. He was also known as the man boxing legend Muhammad Ali called “The only man I idolize more than myself."
All icons start out as a kid with a dream. OshKosh B’gosh’s new back-to-school campaign, Today is Someday, celebrates that premise with three new inspiring ads. And one of them features Mariah Carey’s daughter, Monroe, in her first-ever brand campaign!
Carey is one of the trailblazers highlighted as children, along with Muhammed Ali and Outkast. The ads celebrate the kids’ determination and honor the real-life stars’ childhood experiences. Ali’s ad features the red bike that was stolen and launched him into a boxing career, Outkast’s ad was scripted in partnership with Andre 3000 and Big Boi and Carey’s ad has the most personal touch with her own daughter appearing. Watch to see how it turned out!
“As a little girl, I was determined to realize my dreams. Now as a mother, it brings me so much joy to see my children visualize and develop the dreams they hold in their own hearts. We did the campaign because we love the message of empowering kids to dream boldly and blaze their own path,” Mariah Carey said.
The campaign officially kicks off on July 23 but you can watch all three spots now on YouTube. They were crafted with the brand’s new creative agency Majority, founded in part by Shaquille O’Neal! Keep an eye out for the launch of the fall collection which promises “timeless and trend-forward styles” along with a new brand identity.
Let me begin by clearly stating that I am 100% in support of all parents faced with this impossible decision this year. Whether you keep your children home, participate in an online version of their traditional school, or homeschool completely, no option is solely right or wrong. We are all living in a gray area during this crisis and we are all trying to make the best calls with little to no experience of the predicament we have found ourselves in.
My husband and I have made the choice to keep our kids home this academic year. They are a part of an online-based academy that isn’t part of our district, but we will also be supplementing with our own homeschool curriculum. Deciding this wasn’t easy at all and was met with particular resistance by my thirteen year old son who just wanted to see his friends every day. After a lot of thought and deliberation, I think I have figured out what I feel comfortable with and how to mesh it into a smorgasbord of acceptable for all involved in our home.
We didn’t want the chaos surrounding the virus to interrupt our kids’ focus on studies, let alone the struggle that the district is going through to switch to an online platform as opposed to traditional style. It made more sense for our kiddos to have a more relaxed and designed specifically-for-them option.
With the plan we have in place, they will wake up and have personal time as well as school time. They can scatter their classes throughout the day, or knock them all out at once. As long as the assignments are completed by the end of the day, the time is theirs to be responsible with. This also leaves plenty of time for friends. Provided they use their smarts and don’t risk their health or wellbeing, we allow them to come and go and visit with their friends in the neighborhood.
Thanks to that, we aren’t worried about the socialization factor. Another part we love about this choice is how tailored we can make it for each child. My youngest son thrives in math, while my oldest son and my daughter don’t. This lets us give the youngest the room to shoot forward in progress while still nurturing the other two at their pace. Not having to accomodate an entire class of children with different comprehension levels and needs makes for a shorter day and less frustration for ours.
The shorter paper work time allows them more opportunity to explore other interests as well. My daughter has begun learning Spanish in her free time, and my oldest is pursuing boxing as a physical education credit. Many districts also allow homeschooled students to participate in the extracurriculars offered in the schools. So, when basketball season comes, or if they peak a sudden interest in chess club or drama club, that door is open to them. The freedom to choose and flourish their way is amazing for their independence and responsibilty growth.
The last big reason we chose is something many people don’t realize. Colleges, Ivy and otherwise, scout homeschooled kids. They set a lot of value by the real world skills gained by most homeschool journeys. More often than not, homeschooled children are more comfortable interacting with people generations above their own. They also gain more practical knowledge and responsibility about things like money management and taxes. A lot of children also begin to take a larger part in homemaking whether that be sewing, gardening, construction, or even cooking. These wide skill sets make them especially alluring to colleges looking to enroll well rounded, full of potential young adults.
This choice is not without its own shortcomings. Those of us who choose this also have to remember the effort and time it takes to actually develop a routine where the kids can self start and be trusted to complete things themselves. We also have to understand that some of our days will inevitably be incredibly frustrating for both student and parent.
It takes real work to commit to homeschooling, even if it is online and not wholly on your shoulders. Beyond facing your own headaches, there will always be people who critque your decision. We are all in this whirlwind together and our only control is ourselves. What’s important to remember, whether you chose what I did or the opposite, naysayers are an inevitability. Stick close to your tribe of parents who support your choices because they know you are doing your best to make the right calls. Never let the peanut gallery win. You are doing awesome.
I'm a Texan Mom always chasing after my crazy chaos bringer. When I'm not parenting, I run a personal artistry website and a small arts label. More than anything, though, I'm just biding my time until TACO TUESDAY.
Exercise is one of the best ways to burn off steam, stress, and calories (and keep your sanity as a parent). That’s why finding a gym with childcare is key for so many NYC moms and dads. Knowing your gym provides safe, reliable babysitting can go a long way when it comes to getting motivated and making it out of the house. Whether it’s a hard core boot camp class or stress-reducing yoga and steam room session you’re after, here’s where you can get fit while the kids have fun. Read on for our top picks of NYC gyms with daycare!
YMCA
Dodge YMCA
A membership to the Y is one of the best gym deals around and the NYC branches are better than you might imagine. Besides, even a family membership costs less than top NYC gym chains. Many have pools and class schedules offer an impressive array of options, including baby-and-me classes for new moms and fun drop-ins for kid members. When you need someone to watch your kid, ages 6 months to 7 years old, drop him at Child Watch for up to two hours - it's free! Reservations are recommended and it does fill up during peak times. Visit ymca.net for locations and details by site.
Get a tough workout and feel pampered all at the same time. Sweat through a challenging class from one of NYC’s top fitness instructors and cool down with a chilled eucalyptus towel found in mini-fridges throughout the gyms, all while your child stays at the Kids Club. And we won't tell if you just show up for a luxurious shower - you'll love the Kiehl's products and the ability to dry your hair without worrying you hear your baby's cries. Childcare is offered for kids ages 3 months to eight years. Equinox charges $14 for an up to two-hour session. You can save by buying a 10 or 20-pack of vouchers. Find the Kids Club at several of the NYC Equinox locations including Upper East Side and Upper West Side gyms, as well as Tribeca, Brooklyn Heights,Brookfield Place and Printing House in Hudson Square. Childcare hours vary from club to club, but hours are typically 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Bring your tiny dancer to The Bar Method Cobble Hill where you can sculpt and get lean using your own body weight and the ballet barre. Childcare is offered for kids as young as eight weeks months, as long as they are up to date on shots, and as old as eight. The service is $15 at 9:30 and 11 a.m. classes. (Classes last 45 minutes to an hour.) Advance registration is required, and you can book and pay online.
267 Pacific St. Cobble Hill 718-522-3350 Online: barmethod.com
Just one Crunch gym location has childcare, and guess which one it is? If you said Park Slope, Brooklyn, you're a winner! It's affordable, too: Just $4 for the first kid, and $2 for siblings. Be sure to indulge in the on-site Rituals spa products while you're there!
With more locations than any other gym chain around the city, it’s not hard to find a New York Sports Club near you. But be aware, some locations do not have childcare, and hours vary from club to club, so be sure to call ahead to check with your nearest gym. That said, many NYSC locations, do offer babysitting, including several on the Upper West and East sides, downtown, in Bay Ridge and Midwood, Forest Hills, Glendale, the Bronx and Staten Island. (Search NYSC locations by babysitting service here.) NYSC babysitters, which have undergone background checks and are AED/CPR certified, are available for kids ages 3 months to 10 years old. Rates vary from location to location; some, like the 106th Street and Third Avenue location include childcare in the membership; at Cobble Hill in Brooklyn the rate is $19.99 for two hours, and at 80th and Broadway, it's $15 for two hours.
LA Fitness is an affordable gym (under $50 a month) with childcare as part of your membership for an additional $15 a month. Babysitting is offered for kids six months and up, with hours varying by location. (You can find hours for each listed on individual clubs' sites.) You'll find LA Fitness in Howard Beach, Queens, and in Staten Island.
If your kids are as interested in being active as you are, this Brooklyn Heights club offers something for everyone from racquetball courts and a small pool for you to a Junior Academy featuring karate, basketball, ballet, volleyball, swimming and more for kids. The gym also offers no-reservation-required babysitting for kids ages 6 months to six years old. (There is a maximum of eight kids at a time, so be advised.) Childcare is open daily from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Childcare vouchers (good for an hour-and-a-half of babysitting) are $8 for one (expiring in a month), or $60 for a ten pack, which expire in six months. (Psst! There's a spa here, too.)
Astoria's Club Fitness New York describes itself as "a 40,000-square-foot gym with state of the art equipment and enriching amenities." (They will not, however, describe their membership rate — you need to drop by in person to get that; expect to pay at least $60/month.) You get a lot for your money, including classes like spin, Boot Camp, belly dancing, pilates, boxing, Fat Burn and two kinds of yoga. The gym is home to extensive weight-training and cardio facilities, including a trippy-looking spin studio, as well as a day spa and an organic cafe. Child care — for kids ages one to 12— is included with all memberships, and is available Mon- Fri. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 -9 p.m., and Sat. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
With an initial New York area location in Staten Island, Retro Fitness has expanded to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond and offers childcare at its Park Slope, Flatbush (Church Ave.), and Hoboken gyms. Childcare is included with membership, the rates for which vary by location. The gym also offers classes ranging from yoga to Zumba to spin, TRX Glute Camp and more. Equipment is internet-connected and outfitted with docks for iPhones and you can even work on your tan there if that's your thing. Stop by the smoothie bar for a post-workout snack when you're done.
Harbor Fitness began in Bay Ridge nearly 30 years ago. Since then, they've expanded to locations in Park Slope, Marine Park and Mill Basin, all of three of which offer complimentary childcare seven days a week. There is a two-hour limit and children must be up to date with shots. In addition to cardiovascular equipment, strength machines, free weights and boxing, each club has recently been upgraded for HIIT turf training. For classes, take your pick from intense circuit training, barre and Pilates, to Zumba, Brooklyn Boot Camp and more. Visit their website for details on each club's offerings and membership rates.
We always hear interesting responses when we talk about why news is a fascinating way for kids to discover the world. Reactions range between “Isn’t the world scary enough already?” to “Do kids even care?” to our favorite, which is, “That’s so true. What can we do about it?”
News isn’t always “scary” or “bad.” News is also about fantastic events, accomplishments, and the evolution of our world. And we are so excited for 2020 to kick into gear because we believe this will be the most interesting year to connect kids with the news. Here are five good reasons:
The Olympics: How many Summer Olympics do you get to watch with your kids, while they are still kids? Only about four, which makes them a pretty special event. Nothing matches the excitement of watching hairline finishes, near-perfect performances, and national pride in the biggest sporting event in the world. With more than 200 countries competing, the Summer Olympics starts in July and is sure to thrill sports fans the world over!
The 2020 highlight: Five new sports including skateboarding, sports climbing, surfing, baseball, and karate added to the mix this year. Other sports, for the first time, will have women’s events and mixed events as well! These include rowing, shooting, canoeing, and boxing. This year, it will be interesting to discuss why there are new rules about how athletes can protest—hot tip: taking a knee or raising your fist are now allowed!
Climate Change: It seems like not a week goes by without the topic of climate change coming up in the news. If anything demonstrated the power of youth activism this past year, it was the Climate March and the influence of Greta Thunberg. Last year, we heard from youth across the nation who participated in the march, and this year we’ll be talking about this event for the third year in a row, which has inspired kids everywhere to sit up, listen, and ask questions.
What’s happening in 2020? From the United Nations to Davos, activists continue to push for real action. If 2019 was the year companies announced steps like eliminating straws in coffeehouses or tiny bottles of shampoos in hotels, will 2020 be the year that governments step it up around the globe? 2020 began by witnessing the impact of the fires had in Australia, but will this be the year countries decide to tackle climate change with broader, stricter policies?
Elections: Interestingly, we started Xyza because we were inspired by the 2016 elections and all of the conversations we heard among students, teachers, and parents. In 2020, presidential elections will take place in the United States as well as in other countries around the world. Elections are a great time to talk about candidates, leadership, voting, and how people decide on candidates.
2020 highlights: The United States Presidential elections will continue to be a hot topic as we enter the year talking about impeachment, two powerful women candidates, Elizabeth Warren and Amy Klobucher and the first openly gay presidential candidate, Pete Buttigieg. We expect quite a few family dinner table conversations to turn towards politics and elections this year!
Space, Space, Space: Talk about out-of-this-world experiences! The world has a stupendous year of space exploration planned and we cannot wait. For every kid interested in space, science, astronauts, rockets, and everything in between, 2019 was an interesting year of the first all-female spacewalk, moon landing attempts, and the adventures of the Mars Rover Opportunity. But 2020 is expected to be bigger and better.
2020 highlights: ExoMars, or the alignment of Mars and Earth, makes it a spectacular year for Mars exploration, for one. In fact, more than four missions to Mars is expected to happen in 2020 alone! Could this be the year NASA launches astronauts in space with companies like SpaceX and Boeing? We hope so. Additionally, thousands of satellites will be launched in 2020 by different organizations, which brings up an interesting question for the family dinner table: How crowded can space get? (In fact, it’s already getting rather crowded!
Women in Hollywood: Did you know that the most anticipated blockbusters of 2020 are based on female leads, and…wait for it…they’re also directed by women? As a parent, you’ve probably had (or will have) at least one conversation explaining “boy” and “girl” stereotypes to your kids, or about why women are still fighting for rights to equal opportunities and pay.
2020 highlights: 2020 will likely be a year of women’s achievements in Hollywood (what kid doesn’t love a good movie?). Movies like Wonder Woman 1984, Black Widow, The Eternals, Mulan and Birds of Prey will be out this year, all directed by women!
We will be tracking the news for kids, inviting our Junior Reporters to share their thoughts, and connecting kids with the world through news in 2020. What other events in 2020 do you think we should cover?
We're two perfectly imperfect moms who have five very different kids between the two of us. We believe that topics in news are a fantastic way to spark conversations in families. That's why we started the Dinner Table Conversation series here at Xyza: News for Kids. Won't you join us in the conversation?
Mario and Sonic are headed to the Olympic Games in Tokyo for 2020 and you’re invited to come along and play in a brand new Nintendo Switch game.
Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020brings these popular Nintendo and SEGA characters together once again. Kids, young and old, get to join Mario, Sonic and plenty of their friends, like Bowser, Luigi, Princess Peach and many more, to play action-packed sporting events in classic retro 2D and modern 3D.
The classic 2D events, featured in the original Sonic in Super Mario 64 include Gymnastics (Vault), Judo, Kayak Single (K-1) 1000m, Long Jump, Diving, Marathon, Volleyball and more. You can also take the leap to 3D in new events including Archery, Badminton, Boxing, Discus Throw, Equestrian (Jumping), Fencing, Football (Soccer), Gymnastics (Floor Exercise), Javelin Throw, Karate (Kumite), Rugby Sevens, Skateboarding, Sport Climbing, Shortboard Surfing, Swimming the 100m Freestyle, Table Tennis and more.
Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 can be played with one to four players, making a great family night choice. It will be available exclusively on Nintendo Switch starting Nov. 5.
Hey home skillet, ready for a giant dose of ’90s nostalgia? From beanie babies to Gak, we’ve got the definitive list of ’90stoys that confirms playtime was way better back in your day. Keep scrolling to re-discover your childhood faves!
Have you tried explaining to your tots that when you were a '90s kid, you played with Pokemon cards, not a Pokemon Go app? (And you also walked 15 miles uphill to school, right?)
The objective of the Electronic Dream phone may have been to figure out which '90s hunk had a crush on you (he's not at the beach!), but the real takeaway was that cordless phones were the future.
Not only was Gak the '90's answer to silly putty, it was also the sound our moms made when they found the stuff smooshed in the bottom of our backpacks.
Heaven help the sibling who ripped the tag off one of our Beanie Babies. BTW, we're still waiting for the big payout from our collection—weren't these the ticket to an early retirement?
Long before we argued about which Hogwarts house we'd be sorted into, '90s kids were drawn to particular American Girl Dolls. And you definitely had at least one friend who was such a Samantha.
Putting aside the name—because plenty of '90s girls loved Game Boy, thankyouverymuch—this toy prepared us all for the infinite handheld game source that is the iPhone.
If you were a '90s kid with a Sky Dancer, there's a 90% chance that at some point you got a face full of flying fairy. But wasn't the collision risk worth it?
It's morphin' time! If you spent every Saturday morning of the '90s watching the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, then owning the action figures was pretty much a requirement.
It was a simpler time when the Koosh Ball reigned supreme. It didn't have any bells, whistles, or batteries, but it did offer the opportunity to toss a rubber projectile at a sibling's face.
The Polly Pocket of the '90s was just the right mix of fun and choking hazard. But if you lost Polly, her pocket universe was pretty much worthless. And, heads up! Polly is making a comeback this summer.
Furby was a sort of hamster-gremlin-owl hybrid that spouted gibberish and demanded attention. It was delightfully creepy and has even made a comeback in recent years.
You never knew how many puppies your mama dog was going to have, but the bigger surprise was learning that babies come from velcro-sealed stomachs. It was a blind bag before that was even a thing.
Sock 'em Boppers—the '90s in a nutshell. Kids were encouraged to beat each other up with inflatable boxing gloves that were marketed as "more fun than a pillow fight."
Any '90s kid who watched Home Alone (so, like, every '90s kid) had to have a Talkboy. How else were we supposed to defend ourselves from bumbling robbers?
R.I.P. all the Tamagotchis that were neglected by '90s kids. You may not have been real pets, but there were real digital consequences if we ignored your beep demands. And here's the good news: they recently made a major comeback!
In a rut with your workout routine? Mix it up with a new class that will put the pep back in your step. From fearless flying yoga and swirling water pole aerobics to cathartic cardio-boxing classes and mom tribe cycle workouts, we’ve found twelve fresh ways to make fitness actually fun. Scroll down to get pumped.
Aquapole
Aquapole
If you enjoy a dip in the pool then catch a wave at this water workout. First, the pole suctions to the bottom of the pool and second, you get to swirl around it. Plus, there are floaties to intensify the workout.
Classes: check schedule Cost: drop-in class, $10
6845 University Ave. San Diego, Ca 619-287-5762 Online: sd.kroccenter.org
Floating Yoga
Paddle into a natural workout at the Carlsbad Lagoon. It's good to know you can be a beginner at yoga (or paddleboarding) and still enjoy the class. By mixing the quiet of nature with a simple yoga workout, you'll leave revived.
Yo Adrian! Punch out this hardcore workout in 30-minutes if you're a newbie, or ratchet up the power to a full 75-minute workout fest. A new way to get a new you.
3247 Camino De Los Coches, Ste. 100 Carlsbad, Ca 760-652-5888 Online: titleboxingclub.com
Mermaid Fitness
Hotel Del Coronado
Everyone wants a chance to don a shimmering mermaid's tail and channel their inner Ariel. Here's your chance–– and you'll also slip into a 45-minute aerobic workout to boot. Even more, the class includes use of mermaid tail, self-parking and towel service.
Classes: spring 2018 Cost: one class, $25; one class local resident, $15
Work out with your baby (in a front carrier) in this 45-minute barre class. It's designed to get new moms fit and toned with the tots in tow. Nursing, feeding, walking, bouncing and crying are all welcome. Specifically, this class is for babies between six weeks to 12 months.
Classes: check website Cost: one class, $29; 10 classes, $225
Rancho Bernardo-Poway Neighborhood The Dailey Method 16777 Bernardo Center Dr. San Diego, Ca 858-433-0377 Online: thedaileymethod.com/rb-poway
Aerial Yoga
Trilogy Sanctuary
Head to this rooftop yoga studio and cafe and strike the most adventurous yoga class off your bucket list. It's part acrobatics, part zen, which is sure to inspire a fantastic workout. Plus, there is an awesome view of La Jolla (while you workout). Even more, stay for the yummy vegan food and smoothies.
Classes: varies, check online Cost: $25 drop-in; $90 for five classes
Trilogy Sanctuary 7650 Girard Ave. La Jolla, Ca 858-633-3893 Online: trilogysanctuary.com
If a perfect workout includes the outdoors combined with core and circuit training, then this is your class. Especially since they tailor classes for beginners as well as the workout warrior. With four San Diego beach and grass locations, you've got a new routine.
Roll in for an intense 45-minute spin class. Enthusiastic instructors and an inspiring sound system help you break a sweat. Bonus: moms rave about the cool vibe and cold eucalyptus towels. Both locations have nearby juice bars to refuel after class.
Classes: Sign-up online Cost: first ride, $14; five-rides, $120
La Jolla 7777 Fay Ave., Suite G1 La Jolla, Ca 858-454-2453 Online: sparkcycle.com
Liberty Station 2835 Perry Rd San Diego, Ca 619-501-2502
Stroller Barre
Fit4Mom
A barre workout with the stroller? Yep, no babysitter needed. Not to mention, this class combines ballet, Pilates, barre and yoga to work on the spots where you need it most. In fact, they meet up all over San Diego. Plus, it's all moms with half-pints, so go girl.
If you have fond memories of tap dancing when you were younger, then this class will jazz you up. Moreover, you'll still hear words like shuffle-ball-change and brush stroke. Plus, you'll burn plenty of calories too.
Hours: various, check website Cost: one class, $15; four classes, $88 (complimentary shoes to borrow)
207 S. El Camino Real, Ste. D Encinitas, Ca 760-633-3495 Online: fittap.net
Elevate Training
Elevate Training
You'll break a sweat on the Megaformer M3 machine in this core-focused fitness class that will tone, increase balance and work over 600 body muscles. Even more, you'll leave inspired and buff.
Classes: Check online Cost: one class, $35; five classes, $125
Elevate Training 437 Hwy 101, #201 Solana Beach, Ca 858-956-9500 Online: elevatesd.com
Instead of chasing your little ninja around the house, why not bounce it out? Both of you will get some together time and be ready for the afternoon nap. Plus, the best part: it's little kids only. Get your bounce on at Sky Zone with your young grasshoppers.
Chula Vista Neighborhood 851 Showroom Pl., #100 Chula Vista, Ca 619-754-9782 Hours: Tues., 10 a.m.-noon; Sun., 10 a.m.-noon Cost: $10 per toddler; $5 for parent Online: skyzone.com/chulavista
San Marcos Neighborhood 860 Los Vallecitos Blvd. San Marcos, Ca 619-431-3700 Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-noon Cost: $8 per hour toddler, free for parent Online: skyzone.com/sanmarcos
What’s your best fitness workout? Tell us about it in the comments below.
Even if you know how important it is to take “you” time, your busy schedule (and selfless mama brain) says no way. So classes at the new XO Fitness in Sherman Oaks are just what you need: it’s amazing for your body and brain and simultaneously benefits your family, because not only will you increase your overall fitness, but also your endurance, posture and attitude. You’ll come back from a class so happy and energized, your family will beg you to go back!
So Zen, So Pretty, So Clean
You walk in and it’s gorgeous. Clean, minimal, looks like the design of a hip new restaurant. Relaxing. Well, take a deep breath and enjoy a zen moment, because that’s about to change. For the next 50 minutes, you’re going to have your butt kicked, in the best possible way.
Meet Sara Lewis, Your New Inspiration (and Friend!)
Founder/Creator Sara Lewis started out as an athletic yet uncoordinated and unfitness-y kind of gal. So you can relate to her, and she can relate to you. After struggling to find a class that would address cardio needs while also making sure to strength train the core, upper and lower body, she came up empty. After trying everything: Pilates, barre, bootcamp, Cross-Fit, yoga, boxing, rowing, dance and ballet, she realized that class didn’t exist. So she’d better invent it.
One Class To Rule Them All
This is why we love her. She gets that busy moms need everything all at once. We can’t take 8 different classes a week. And we’re used to multi-tasking. We bore easily. So she opened her first studio with this in mind, and has now expanded with an even larger new place, XO: Cross Over Fitness. The format here includes boxing and cardio, reformers, springboards, weights, rowers and heavy bags. It’s the ultimate, full body experience. One 50-minute class to rule them all.
Let It Be Hard
Sarah is currently pregnant with her second child, and can help you adjust your workout for wherever your body is in motherhood: pregnant, post-natal, or even “Oh my god, the kids are getting older and I haven’t been in a gym in years.” But don’t think she’ll take it easy on you. She says, “My philosophy is: Let it be hard; it already is. Let’s not deny that what we are doing is tough, but instead, let’s embrace that this is hard and we are stronger and better for it.”
And you will be. Stronger and better.
Three Strikes, You’re In!
There are three good reasons why it’s easy to avoid the gym. And XO Fitness knocks out all of them.
One: Gyms and classes are dirty, with all those sweaty bodies sharing equipment. Nope, this place is the cleanest we’ve seen. Spotless. Cleaned thoroughly between classes, there are new boxing gloves and wipes readily available for you to use.
Two: It’s too hard figure out the equipment or moves. Not the case here. Yes, there’s a learning curve. The first class you figure out what to do (and when you want to do it—we always want to end with the boxing at Station A, FYI). But by the third class, you got it. And the unbelievably nice and helpful instructors will give you pointers if you’re confused.
Three: No time for classes. Well, this takes less than 50 minutes, and frankly the mix of pilates, abs, and core strengthening will help your posture, bone density and other pains (like back) that you’ve been picking up as you pick up baby. So, really, you’re saving time now and in the future…
No excuses left.
5 Quick LA Mama Fit Tips From Sara:
Here’s an easy change everyone can make that will change your life. One of the best pieces of advice I received when I was first getting certified in Pilates was while sitting at desk laptop, keep elbow to your ribs. I had never realized I was slouching so much at my computer—the place I was sitting 2-3 hours a day!
A (Realistic) Key to Daily Sanity in 12 Minutes: Do 1 minute plank in the morning, give yourself 10 minutes of alone time midday (sitting in your car/at your desk/while you’re nursing/napping your baby etc.) to close you eyes and just breathe, and 1 minute plank in the evening. It will change your life.
My favorite place to exercise outdoors is hiking Runyon Canyon. They just renovated it and you can bring kids and dogs.
If you’re pregnant, you can and should continue your fitness routine, what you have been doing leading up to your pregnancy, as long as you have the OK from your Doctor. Try not to be intimidated by rules. Listen to your body, YOU know it best!
My favorite post workout snack in LA is the Acai bowls at Juice Crafters. The day I went into labor, I was eating 2 of them a day.
Classes are offered daily, and you can find a time that fits your schedule from 6 a.m.-9 p.m. You can pay for a single class at a time ($25) or buy class packs to save money. Your first month is only $95 for unlimited classes.
And finally, here’s why you have zero excuse not to go; the first class is free. So, go do something for you. We’re giving you permission. In fact, consider it mamma’s orders.
Looking for a fun sport for your little champ? Step into the ring for the sweet science of boxing. It’s a great way to get physically fit and improve hand-eye coordination and reflexes as well as gain confidence, self-discipline and focus. And kids’ boxing is non-contact, so the injury quota is no higher than any other martial art. Still not convinced? Don’t throw in the towel just yet.
photo: Helen Walker Green
Seattle
Arcaro Boxing – Central District
Two lazy basset hounds welcome young boxers to Arcaro Boxing (they’re the unofficial referees). Youth training sessions at Arcaro are 45 minutes long and during a session your young pugilist will learn boxing techniques, get in shape and pick up some important life skills along the way. “Boxing is a great way for our youth to prepare and engage in the difficulties of growing up,” says owner Tricia Arcaro Turton.
Boxing Bonus: Grownups can participate in an open gym workout at the same time.
Classes: Arcaro Boxing offers a Youth Boxing Program for ages 8-12. Younger kids can come in for a tryout; if they pass, Coach Tricia will take them on. Psst… some kids in this program have been boxing since the age of 5.
Arcaro Boxing
208 E. Jefferson St.
Seattle, Wa 98122
206-250-3655
Online: arcaroboxing.com or map it
Bumblebee Boxing – South Seattle
Located in the South Beacon Hill neighborhood, Bumblebee Boxing is an old school boxing gym at its best! Coach Bumblebee has been coaching young boxers for 60 years – and he doesn’t pull any punches! If you’re horsing around, that’s 200 push-ups, if you don’t show up, you’ll do 350 next time. Coach Bumblebee will get your kids in shape, teaching them excellent boxing skills, discipline, concentration and leadership. Psst… keep your hands up and your stingers sharp!
Classes: Bumblebee Boxing offers a Kids Program for ages 5-12.
Bumblebee Boxing
3800 S. Othello St.
Seattle, Wa 98118
206-930-7018
Online: bumblebeeboxing.net or map it
Cost: $35/month
photo: Cappy’s Boxing Gym
Cappy’s Boxing Gym – Central District
In Cappy’s fun and engaging hour-long class, kids will get a great workout while learning boxing fundamentals, plus emotional management, self-discipline and mental focus. As their skills progress, young boxers will have the option to move on to contact sparring drills, join the CBC (Cappy’s Competitive Boxing team) and participate in community outreach programs.
Boxing Bonus:Cappy’s offers fun family workouts, so parents and kids can work out together.
Classes: Cappy’s Boxing Gym offers a Youth Boxing Program for ages 8-17.
Cappy’s Boxing Gym
2609 S. Jackson St.
Seattle, Wa 98144
206-322-6410
Online: cappysgym.com or map it
Cost: $5/first class; $70/5-class pass; $115/10-class pass. Monthly and annual passes available. Each additional child per family will receive one-half off the fee. Kids are half-price if you workout too.
photo: Helen Walker Green
Eastside
Northwest Fighting Academy – Redmond
Russian father and son champion boxers Timur and Artem Alimov welcome all skills and fitness levels to their gym near Marymoor Park. “Newbies are the greatest part of our gym,” says Artem. Trained in the former USSR, the Alimovs provide a unique perspective on boxing strategy and training. Kids focus on developing their boxing technique and work on strength and conditioning training. Plus, one-on-one time with a trainer is included in each session.
Classes: Northwest Fighting Academy offers Kids Classes for ages 5-12.
Northwest Fighting Academy
17519 N.E. 67th Ct.
Redmond, Wa 98052
425-533-3138
Online: nwfacademy.com or map it
Ring Sports United – Bellevue
If you’ve got a lil’ boxing wannabe, join the Eastside Pugs at Ring Sports United. Boxers, ranging in age from 8-68, can go non-contact or gradually work up to sparring. The trainers are passionate about all “ring sports” and offer kickboxing, Jiu jitsu, wrestling and MMA, so you can mix it up and try some other activities while you’re there.
Spectator Sport: Ring Sports has a regulation size ring and often hosts competitive, regional fights.
Classes: Ring Sports United offers All Ages Classes for ages 8 & up.
Ring Sports United
1900 132nd Ave. N.E., #A-6
Bellevue, Wa 98005
425-576-5300
Online: ringsportsunited.com or map it
Cost: Monthly and annual passes available. The first class is free.
Do you have a little boxer in the fam? Tell us if we missed your kiddo’s favorite boxing ring in the Comments below!