March 2019 - Fittest Dogs Issue by Austin Fit Magazine

F LY

SOMETHING NEW PG. 24

THE MIGHTY

SERVICE DOGS PG. 42

THE 2019

PET GUIDE PG. 48

MAR 2019

10TH ANNUAL FITTEST DOGS

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IT’S MORE THAN A RIDE. IT’S A WAY TO MOVE ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH FORWARD. The Alzheimer’s Association Ride to End ALZTM is a cycling event to directly impact the pace and momentum behind the fight to end Alzheimer’s. This fully supported, one-day cycling event offers multiple route options and distances to challenge any level of rider. Right now, there is no shortage of ideas in Alzheimer’s research — only dollars. But you can help change that. 100 percent of the funds you raise will go toward the Association’s efforts to discover methods of treatment and prevention.

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THE GOOD STUFF

AUSTINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FITTEST DOGS

42 SERVICE DOGS MARCH

76 ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT 6

2019

LOEWY LAW FIRM

Contents Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter 10 #keepaustinfit 11

HIGHLIGHTS

Digital Content 12 Recipe 16

Pet Guide 48 Exposure 71

Events 78 Races 80

SUSTAINABLE FASHION

ESSENTIAL OILS VS. STANDARD MEDICAL PRACTICE

MASSAGE TYPES

NUTRITION

LIFESTYLE

WELLNESS

FITNESS

Biodynamic Farming 16

Going Digital With Fitness 20 Birding 54

Self Care and Pregnancy 60 Gut Types 66

Types of Hot Yoga 68 Workout 72

MARCH

2019

From the Editor I have had the opportunity to meet incredible people and tell their stories. I’ve gotten to try new things like motocross and surfing. And I’ve learned so much about what makes the Austin fitness community so special. Another really fun part of this job was getting to work on this issue — The 10th Annual Fittest Dogs issue. Like most people here, I am a dog-lover. They are truly amazing. They each have a unique personality, they are loyal and always love you despite your shortcomings. They never judge you based on your looks or your social status. They help keep our communities safe, help people with physical limitations and bring a sense of calm for those suffering from sickness, stress or anxiety. Last but not least, they are great at keeping you honest about your fitness. It wasn’t an easy task trying to select only a few out of all the submissions for the fittest dogs this year. In a perfect world, I would have picked them all. There were so many with impressive accomplishments, compelling life stories and adorable faces. I tried my best to pick the ones that stood out or resonated with me the most. Along with our fittest dogs, our equally great feature is also about dogs. Amanda Powell found a servicedog training center in Dripping Springs, and walks us through what it takes to make it as a service dog. We also have a great lifestyle piece about getting out into nature and birding with the Travis Audubon Society. So, here it is. My first dog issue, and surely not my last.

THE 10TH ANNUAL FITTEST DOGS ISSUE!

Keep Austin Fit,

ost times when I tell people what I do for a living their response is usually something along the lines of, “Oh, what a cool job! That must be so much fun!” Or, “Do you just work out all day long?” While working out is included in my job, I still have plenty of other responsibilities. Like helping to put together a magazine each month. While my team and I work extremely hard and we’re always on deadline, these people aren’t wrong. My job is really cool and I do have a ton of fun.

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Kat Barclay EDITOR

Major Barclay

2019

#KEEPAUSTINFIT CEO | LOU EARLE PUBLISHER | LYNNE EARLE

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER | ALEX EARLE EDITOR | KAT BARCLAY ART DIRECTOR | CARLEY METZGER SALES AND OPERATIONS DIRECTOR | ALEX ECENIA ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Ashley Anjula, Aaron Landis, Caitlin Moore WRITERS Alexa Sparkman, Alex Winkelman Zeplain, Amanda Powell, Anne Wilfong, Jen Daughtry, Jill Birt, Sam Ecenia PROOFREADER Danylle Salinas PHOTOGRAPHER Brian Fitzsimmons INTERNS Hannah Flannigan, Haley Birt, Haylee Reed, Kelly Frossard, Meara Isenberg, Monica Hand

GENERAL INQUIRIES info@austinfitmagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES aecenia@austinfitmagazine.com 512.407.8383 EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS kat@austinfitmagazine.com fitfocus@austinfitmagazine.com EVENT LISTINGS austinfitmagazine.com/events SUBSCRIPTIONS austinfitmagazine.com/subscribe

411 W. Monroe St. Austin, TX 78704 p 512.407.8383 Austin Fit Magazine assumes no responsibility for the content of articles or advertisements, in that the views expressed therein may not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or any magazine employee or contributor. This publication and all of its contents are copyrighted. Austin Fit Magazine is the assumed name of its publisher, Louis M. Earle, who has no interest in the business of Denis Calabrese who operates an exercise program under the assumed name of Austin Fit, which trains individuals to improve their jogging or running skills to participate in marathons. The views, opinions and other representations published in Austin Fit Magazine are not those of Austin Fit or any of its directors, officers, employees or agents.

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM We’re more than just a monthly publication. Join us online and on our social networks to see the additional awesomeness we’re up to. austinfitmagazine.com

CAN DOGS HELP CHILDREN

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FAVORITE

Column

MARCH

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MENTAL HEALTH

Fitness Apps

2019

TEAM PLAYERS

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NEW TO AUSTIN SPONSOR

E+E Fitness

PHOTOGRAPHY

Brian Fitzsimmons

E+E FITNESS COMES TO EAST AUSTIN The Eastside keeps getting cooler with this diverse new workout studio.

itness has always been in her blood. And now Becky Brown is bringing her personal passion for movement to East Austin’s newest contemporary workout studio, E + E Fitness. E + E

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brings Austin’s best cardio kickboxing, bootcamps and personal training to a stunning, state-of-the-art workout space, nestled neatly at the base of the Alexan apartments on East 6th Street. “Our goal is to create a community — both inside and outside the fitness

studio — based upon a common love for movement, play and human connection,” Brown, owner of E + E Fitness, says. Sleek, textured walls envelop a modern, check-in area, where members are lured into each of E + E’s three exercise rooms. Here they will find fitness newbies and fanatics experiencing the best workouts in town. Today, it might mean 60 minutes of a full-body sculpting, strengthbuilding bootcamp class. Tomorrow, it could be an assault on the day’s stresses in a battle against the heavy bag. Or perhaps it’s a one-on-one session geared toward your own personal goals with your favorite personal trainer. Whatever the tonic, the workout experience is guaranteed to be fresh, challenging and most importantly, fun. “Our kickboxing room is equipped with 21 heavy bags and features Muay Thai-style kickboxing mixed with bodyweight movements that are sure to make you sweat,” Brown says. “These classes burn hard, incorporate explosive speed, footwork, strength and most of all, willpower. It’s just you

2019

and your bag for 60 minutes, pushing yourself to new, exhilarating places, mentally and physically.” Brown has also forged an exclusive partnership with HEAT

Bootcamp to incorporate their signature HIIT (high intensity interval training) into E + E’s class offerings. An Austin standout for more than a dozen years, HEAT will bring its unique combination of strength training, cardio, calisthenics and plyometrics — all set to a killer soundtrack — to keep members sweating, motivated and craving more. The bootcamp space will be equipped with dumbbells, medicine balls, pull-up bars and a “wall ball” area for a novel workout experience each and every time. “All of the equipment at E + E was selected by experienced trainers with a rap for getting their clients results,” Brown says. “Whatever your fitness goals are, we have you covered and invite you and your friends to join the E + E Fitness community.”

To top it all off, E + E also features lush locker room amenities, including luxury showers and changing rooms. For anyone interested in checking out E + E Fitness, the first workout is always free. And you can sign up online for class packages and monthly memberships now. E + E’s goal is to Elevate and Evolve community fitness by challenging its members to experiment and learn new things every time they step foot in the studio. afm

E + E FITNESS will be open seven days a week, Monday through Friday, from 5:45 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information or to join now, please visit eandefitness.com.

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

NUTRITION AUTHORS:

Anne Wilfong, RD, LD and Alexa Sparkman, MA, RD, LD

Try using a mandolin to cut the vegetables thinly

MARCH 2019

Recipe

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Brian Fitzsimmons

Roasted chickpeas are a healthy way to add crunch and nutrition to salads. Try this salad with roasted chickpeas as a meal, side or even an appetizer. 2019

ROASTED CHICKPEA SALAD RECIPE Makes approximately: 9-10 cups salad Serving Size: 2 cups salad

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

1.15 ounces canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Roasted Chickpeas

1 teaspoon olive oil 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup spinach 1 cup romaine 1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced (approximately 1 1/2 cups) 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (approximately 2 cups) 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced 3/4 cup feta, cubed 1/4 cup low fat vinaigrette dressing

Nutrition

Calories: 187 Fat: 8 grams Protein: 8 grams Carbohydrate: 21 grams Fiber: 5 grams Sodium: 533 milligrams

1. Preheat oven to 425ď&#x203A;°. 2. On a baking sheet, toss chickpeas with olive oil and salt. Roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy. 3. Set aside as topping for salad.

Salad 1. In a large bowl, toss spinach, romaine, radishes, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion and feta together. 2. Add roasted chickpeas to the bowl and toss salad gently with dressing.

D I D YO U K N O W ?

This recipe is brought to you by Whole Foods Market.

A quick way to increase your intake of nutrients such as fiber and folate (a watersoluble B vitamin found naturally in food) and decrease your saturated fat intake is to substitute beans for meat in your diet.

Registered and licensed dietitians Alexa Sparkman and Anne Wilfong can provide reliable, objective nutrition information, separate facts from fads and translate the latest scientific findings into easy-to-understand nutrition information. For more information about their nutrition counseling practice, contact Alexa or Anne at 512.257.0898 or sparkmannutrition.com

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

NUTRITION AUTHOR

Sam Ecenia

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE BIODYNAMIC? Discussions of farming practices and their environmental impacts are stoking fiery conversation all over the country. Organics are something many of us are familiar with. But how is biodynamics different? Sam Ecenia, a biodynamic farmer in California, shares some fairly universal principles of biodynamic farms.

ow horns, quartz crystals, lunar cycles and cover cropping. What do these all have in common? Biodynamic farming, of course. Biodynamics is an agricultural philosophy based on a series of lectures from Austrian scientist, social reformer and philosopher Rudolph Steiner, written in 1924. Steinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thoughts on farming arose in response to the degradation of soils and a decrease in the quality of crops, following

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the introduction of chemical fertilizers. Steiner wanted to help refocus farmers on the value of diversity and quality, rather than merely quantity and profitability. Biodynamics is fully under the umbrella of organic farming but has an underlying recognition of spirit in nature. I like to conceptualize agricultural philosophies as old roman buildings held up by principle pillars. Organic farms might have health, ecology, fairness and a rejection of synthetic inputs holding up their pantheon. The

biodynamic pantheon has a few extra pillars that include a vision of the farm as an living organism, an emphasis on generating on-farm fertility, the use of biodynamic preparations and working in rhythms of the earth and cosmos. The material that makes up these pillars is a belief that our reality is a physical blanket draped over a spiritual world. To summarize, biodynamics is an addition to sound, traditional farming that humans have honed throughout history.

2019

“

“The plants and animals on Earth… cannot be understood in isolation… it is nonsense to seek within the compass needle itself, the reason why it always points to the north… Just as we have to look at the whole Earth when we want to explain how a compass needle behaves, so must we also consult the whole universe when it comes to understanding plants.” — R. STEINER

I work for Littorai, a small, family-owned and operated winery in Sonoma, California, that focuses on vineyard designated wines from the Northern Coast. Littorai has been farming their vineyards with biodynamic practices for nearly two decades.

COMPOST

For me, the strongest aspect of biodynamics is the commitment to on-farm composting, utilizing inputs generated mainly from within the farm. At Littorai, we build two 10ˇ x 100ˇ foot-long, layered, lasagna-style compost beds that only need to be turned once. The beds consist of 50 thin layers of manure, hay, vineyard pruning, pumice, sunflowers and droughtresistant grasses. This high-quality compost is spread into the vineyard before the first big rain and is our way of returning nutrients we take from grape clusters back into the soil. Compost is a way of recycling excess materials on farms, improving soil structure and reducing or eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers.

BIODIVERSITY

Ninety-five percent of the apple varieties that were around in the 1900s

are no longer being grown in the United States. The desire for high yields and uniformity have replaced a value for diversity and quality in our foods. Where once livestock were a staple of the farm, now we have fleets of tractors. Biodynamics promotes space for companion gardens, open pastures and forested areas rather than planting crops from fence line to fence line. Littorai’s Pivot Vineyard has three acres of vines planted amongst 12 acres of pasture for cows and sheep and 15 acres of rich oak forestland. Though there is no steadfast number for “common” land on each farm, allowing a diverse ecosystem can protect against a variety of natural pests and diseases.

PREPARATIONS

Biodynamic farmers utilize eight specific preparations that are made from quartz, cow manure and a range of different plants, most of which are matured underground in an animal sheath. These are perhaps the most obscure aspects of biodynamic farming and therefore the hardest for people to understand. Some “preparations” are made into teas and sprayed on the crops while others are integrated into the compost pile in small quantities. These “preparations” bring

balance, cohesion and higher level of quality to the finished compost.

RHYTHMS

Every farmer since the beginning of time has been sensitive to the interaction between the sun and the earth. Seasons dictate when farmers sow their seeds and harvest their crops. Biodynamics encourages us to take a step back and look into how other celestial beings affect life on earth. We know the moon can have enormous influences on the oceans, so is it really a stretch of the imagination that there is an effect on sap flow within plants or water in the soil? So, what is biodynamics to a biodynamic farmer like myself ? It's healthy plants that lead to high quality crops. It’s a commitment to working within the living realm, a belief that there is more occurring in nature than we will ever be able to comprehend and an ongoing attempt align ourselves with the subtleties of the natural world. It’s the idea that a farm is a living thing that reaches from deep in the soil, all the way up into the heavens. The only farm in Texas that has claimed to be fully biodynamic is Chickamaw Farm. But, could this be what’s next for Texas farms and vineyards? afm

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

LIFESTYLE AUTHOR

Haylee Reed

GOING DIGITAL WITH YOUR FITNESS

ollowing the explosion of social media in recent years, it seems that nearly every daily activity — including shopping, news, books and entertainment — has shifted to a digital platform. The fitness sector is no exception. Take a minute to scroll through your app store, and you’ll undoubtedly find hundreds of fitness, health and wellness apps, providing you with personalized and guided workouts to help you along your fitness journey. Whether you’re a runner, a cyclist, a yogi or even if you’re brand new to working out, there is bound to be an app that is catered to you. In a fast-paced world that largely prioritizes productivity and efficiency, it’s no surprise that many people are deciding to go digital with their fitness, allowing them to work out at low costs, and a low time

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commitment in the most convenient way possible. However, in the midst of the thriving Austin fitness scene, how much have these fitness apps really changed the fitness world or impacted the fitness industry? With workout classes, gym memberships and personal trainers — as well as hundreds of fitness apps — readily available throughout Austin, people now have the choice to go the digital route or choose a face-to-face workout experience. Before deciding which route to take, it can be helpful to weigh the pros and cons of both. Whether you decide to attend workout classes in a studio or use a fitness app at home, it’s important to choose the option that works best with your schedule, budget and personal needs. One major difference between using fitness apps versus fitness studios is the cost. Most fitness apps are inexpensive or free, allowing

users to work out on a relatively low budget. Apps like Nike+ Training Club, Strava and MyFitnessPal can be downloaded for free, and some of the top paid apps in the app store include Full Fitness: Exercise Workout Trainer, Couch to 5K and Pocket Yoga, each of which can be purchased for less than five dollars.. In comparison to fitness studio memberships, which can often range from $50 to $200 per month, fitness apps give you the ability to save a considerable amount of money. Additionally, fitness apps give users the flexibility of working out anytime, anywhere. If you’re struggling to balance a busy work schedule and only have a small window of time to dedicate to working out, many fitness apps give you the freedom to work out on your own time, even if that means during your lunch break or 15 minutes before

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Is it better to pay for the fitness app or the studio membership?

popular Fitbit app. Throughout the day, users wear the Fitbit wristband — which is synced to the app — and it records movement, tracks calories burned and counts steps. By turning fitness into a sort of game, the app is able to motivate users to view fitness not as chore, but something that can be both enjoyable and fulfilling. On the other hand, you may find that attending a workout studio is a better fit for you. One major perk to choosing a face-to-face fitness experience is the community aspect. According to Christina Jarboe, health and wellness coach and front desk associate at Ride Indoor Cycling, many of her clients would agree. “People are very stoked about showing up to a class. It’s all about the energy,” Jarboe says. “It’s the energy and the music that the instructor’s play, it’s the community

“

FITNESS APPS GIVE USERS THE FLEXIBILITY OF WORKING OUT ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. bed. Apps like Johnson & Johnson’s Official Seven Minute Workout — which provides a wide variety of exercises and guided workouts — allows on-the-go users to stay fit, even on a tight schedule. Another enticing feature of fitness apps is their ability to “gamify” your workouts. Tapping into the part of our psychology that finds satisfaction in achieving goals and completing tasks, apps like the “Activity” feature on the Apple Watch encourage users to work toward personal goals or compete

in virtual competitions with others. As users burn active calories throughout the day, the “Activity” app shows the user their progress through a series of three nested rings: a blue ring for “Stand,” a green ring for “Exercise” and a red ring for “Move.” The more active calories users burn the closer they get to completing their goals, achieved by closing all three rings. Users are able to earn badges, achieve “activity streaks” by closing their rings multiple days in a row and compete against their friends. Although the “Activity” app is a simple concept, many users find this feature to be incredibly motivating in their dayto-day fitness. Another example of “gamifying” fitness can be seen in the

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

vibe that you get from being at a studio, it’s the community events that we host, it’s that we bring riders together, it’s showing up and seeing someone you haven’t seen in a very long time…that’s what people look for. They look for that connection and that relatability.” If you consistently attend the same studio or workout class, you’re bound to meet people who also love to be active. Having a community allows you to connect with others who share similar fitness goals and will help support you along your fitness journey. “You can find [community] in a fitness app, sure. If you are determined and have that right mindset,” Jarboe says. “But you can also be having a [bad] day, go into Ride, and completely turn around your full day by someone saying something nice to you or just having that one moment and that one song that made you have a breakthrough rather than a breakdown. It’s really hard to Classes turn a mood around by doing an allow you to at-home workout.” connect with others Another benefit of working out in a studio is the accountability. If you purchase a membership or corrected,” Jarboe says. “However, class, and you have a community to when you’re working out at home, keep you accountable, you are far you might not have the mobility to less likely to skip out on your worksee what an error could be in your out. Using a fitness app at home, it technique or form.” can be tempting — and all too easy — Certified trainers and coaches to close out of the app, tell yourself, can help fix errors before they hap“I’ll workout tomorrow” and end pen, thus preventing future injury up sitting on the couch. However, and helping you to perform your attending a fitness studio pushes you workout with the best results. to make a commitment to yourself After considering the pros and and to others that you will show up cons of each, you may decide to go to class and be ready to work hard. the digital route with fitness apps, Additionally, Jarboe explains that or perhaps attending face-to-face a face-to-face workout in a studio workout classes is more of your can potentially fix incorrect form. style or you may even want to try “Form and technique can be recout both. In the end, it all boils ognized by an instructor — that can down to personal preference. As be pointed out, that can be fixed and

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we progress further into the future of technology, fitness continues to follow suit, but workout studios continue to play a vital role in the fitness scene, especially in Austin. “I definitely think fitness will go further digitally. I think as electronics and technology furthers, I think fitness will, too,” Jarboe says. “But I think there’s something so special about the in-person training…I don’t think in-person instructors will ever have a really tough competition, because some people just like to be in-person, but [fitness apps and fitness studios] both provide great workouts.” afm

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Courtesy of Travis Audobon Society

2019

FLY SOMETHING NEW From beginner classes to walks for mobility-challenged birders, Travis Audubon offers opportunities to try birdwatching in Austin.

n a misty Saturday morning, 32 muddyshoed people stared into the Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park woods at nothing. That’s because they weren’t looking, but listening. The group was on a beginner bird walk hosted by Travis Audubon, Austin’s oldest conservation organization. Their aim is to protect and advocate for Austin’s land and wildlife, especially through birdwatching, according to Caley Zuzula, program and education coordinator. The walk was led by George Kerr, a veteran birder who could quickly identify the species of a bird that may have looked, to a less experienced eye, like a small black dot shooting across the sky. “When you start to learn stuff, you begin to realize that there’s all this world out here that you haven’t really been paying attention to,” Kerr says. “The more you learn, the more fun it is.”

Kerr told the group to listen for the “loud, slur whistle” of Northern Cardinals and the typewriter-like click of a Ruby-crowned Kinglet. Even with no birds in sight, he encouraged them to take in their surroundings. “Birders don’t just look at birds, we’re looking at everything,” Kerr says, identifying some flora along the trail path. The morning’s walk was free and open to people of all ages and skill levels. Mountain City resident Karen Davis joined the crowd with her 8-year-old grandson, Colton. A newcomer to birding, Davis says she wanted to learn more about different bird species after setting up feeders in her yard. Colton’s reason for early-morning birding was simple. “I wanted to come with you,” Colton says to his grandma. Davis says she often takes Colton and her other grandkids outdoors, whether it be camping, hiking or, most recently, birdwatching. “Sometimes we go through the A, B, Cs, and look for things that

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

LIFESTYLE

The Travis Audobon Society offers beignner and more advanced birding classes. Both free and paid classes are offered depending on desired advancement level.

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start with the letters,” Davis says. “It would be nice if we knew about birds because we could add birds to our list of things to be looking for.” Travis Audubon offers various free bird walks like this one each month, as well as paid classes for more advanced birding experiences. Zuzula says when people get involved in birding, they can also gain a new appreciation for the environment. “When they learn more about birds through us, go birding with us, they realize that there are more birds than they even realized,” Zuzula says. “In that way, people get inspired to learn more about their habitat and want to learn more about how to protect them.” The organization — currently made up of about 1,200 members — takes advantage of Austin’s parks and green spaces, Zuzula says. Austin is home to unique bird species such as the Golden-cheeked Warbler, which only breeds in the Texas Hill Country. Zuzula compares birding to the mobile game, Pokémon GO, which encouraged people from around the world to go outdoors and look for virtual creatures when it was released in 2016. “With birding, it’s like real-life Pokémon,” Zuzula says. “It’s really really cool to walk around a park and look for these different types of birds. It really is like a fun game.” Travis Audubon offers classes for bird and butterfly identification, as well as sessions for birding-related activities such as photography. The walks are led by volunteers, and are available to participants of various skill and experience levels, Zuzula says. Virginia Rose, who leads another free walk through Travis Audubon, knows that birding isn’t all “bushwhacking” and combing through woods looking for birds. She has identified 35 birdwatching sites

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in Austin with pavement fit for mobility-challenged birders, and she utilizes them on her monthly walk, Birdability. Rose has used a wheelchair since a horseback riding accident at the age of 14. She started birding with Travis Audubon in 2003, and says she instantly fell in love with the hobby. “Not one field trip leader said no to me,” Rose says. “I just sort of threw myself on the mercy of every field trip, and just assumed that I could do it, and assumed that they wouldn’t mind.” After taking classes, Rose began leading a monthly beginner bird walk. She continued instructing for seven years, all the while compiling a list of accessible places to bird in Austin. Rose started her initiative, Birdability, last April, and has lead an accessible bird walk through it each month since. She’s trying to fill a niche for people who feel left out of the other, more able-bodied walking world with birding. “I think people in wheelchairs and walkers feel unable to experience the outdoors, and I think it’s because they haven’t been shown what they can do,” Rose says.

“I’m sure that after they go with me a couple times, that they’ll be hooked on it.” While Rose says her previous walking groups have been relatively small, with anywhere from two to six birders joining her, she has seen participants fall into conversations they wouldn’t have had otherwise. “They start talking about what kind of boots are best for you, what kind of gloves are best…what kind of wheelchair equipment is best,” Rose says. “Of course we’re there to bird, but the more important experience is being outside with people who are like you.” Rose’s goal is to have 10 regularly attending people on her bird walk. When it comes to the benefits of birding, she can speak from experience. “The more I’m out, the more confidence I have in myself, in what I can do, how capable I am and how happy I am,” Rose says. “I want all of those people who don’t know that feeling yet to have that.” afm

Upcoming bird walks and classes with Travis Audubon can be found on their website, travisaudubon.org.

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LIFESTYLE AUTHOR

Haley Birt

FAST FASHION FAUX-PAS

ast Fashion makes it easier than ever for trends to rise and fall. Big name brands like Zara, Forever 21 and H&M have done away with the traditional four-season releases to yield a more flexible supply chain that caters to the low predictability and high volatility of the fashion market. The clothing produced by these brands is designed to be made quickly and to wear out quickly, perpetuating high consumer demand. This method of production

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and consumption has caused a steep rise in clothing expenditure beginning in the early 21st century. Since 2000, consumers are making 60 percent more clothing purchases and keeping them for half as long. Not only is that a significant increase in waste, it is a significant increase in spending. This cycle has prompted environmentalists and consumers alike to turn to the rising trend of purchasing goods that are manufactured, marketed and used in a manner that is both conscious of environmental and socio-economic impacts.

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Making your closet more sustainable.

and enough carbon dioxide to According to a 2017 report power the average Austinite’s car published by the Environmental for approximately 130,222 years. Protection Agency, the textile Additionally, Public Radio industry generated approxiInternational investigated 21 mately 16 million tons of countries that are major exportmunicipal solid waste in 2015. ers of clothing and found that This includes goods such as furthe average garment factory niture, footwear, sheets, clothworker made only $536 USD ing and other non-durables. The per month, or $6,442 per year. report does not account for the Furthermore, most workers 651,110 tons of carbon emisreport dismal working condisions or the 79 billion cubic tions such as harassment, meters of water waste. To put these figures into perspective, the fashion indus“The fashion industry produces enough try produces solid waste to weigh the equivalent enough solid of 800,000 Frost Towers, enough waste to weigh water to fill Barton Springs 652,175 the equivalent times and enough carbon dioxide to of 800,000 Frost power the average Austinite’s car for Towers, enough approximately 130,222 years.” water to fill Barton Springs 652,175 times

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overtime without compensation and inadequate and unsafe work environments. These conditions came under scrutiny in 2012 after the collapse of a Bangladeshi garment factory in which over 1,100 lives were lost, and several workers were injured. Companies and labor unions proposed measures to establish safer work environments over a five-year period, beginning at the end of 2012. As that agreement ended and the UN released their Annual Climate Report, the fashion industry has, once more, been thrust into the spotlight. But this time, the headlines ask consumers how they are playing a role in the fashion industries’ negligent behavior. This leads the consumer to wonder: How could I not? The answer: quality over quantity. Environmentalists are urging consumers to consider the questions “where is it made,” “how is it made” and “what is it made of ?” Purchasing clothing that is ethically produced,

MARCH

made of natural materials and fashionably “timeless” may initially be more expensive, but will ostensibly save the consumer time and money. Sustainable shopping also means choosing to support the environment and humane working conditions. Many retail stores are making efforts to create a more sustainable line of clothing. Even clothing stores in Austin like Raven & Lily or Esty are taking strides to be completely sustainable in their clothing production. Just like with containers, another way to eliminate clothing waste is by recycling — shopping at resale stores like Top Drawer or Buffalo Exchange. Donating old clothing to thrift stores or places like Goodwill and Salvation Army can also be a way to reduce the “fashion footprint.” Think twice next time before you go shopping. You may be getting more bang for your buck by shopping sustainably. afm

2019

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LIFESTYLE

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FITTE DOGS AFMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 10TH ANNUAL

WRITTEN BY A F M S TA F F

PHOTOGRAPHY

BRIAN FITZSIMMONS

AFTER 10 YEARS, OUR CITY IS STILL FULL OF FIT, FUN AND ACTIVE DOGS. MARCH

YOGI BEAR,

(Red Labrador) Yogi may be 7-years-old, but he still has the energy of a puppy. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always up for getting down and dirty in the mud, fetching tennis balls and taking a dip in the lake. This is all after his daily 5-mile run. Like most labs, he is a lover of the outdoors, enjoys fishing trout in the Guadalupe river and meeting friends on his hikes through the green belt. In his down time, he enjoys basking in the sun while chewing on a large stick from his momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s firewood pile.

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

INDY,

(German Shepherd) Once on death row at the San Marcos Animal Shelter, Indy was rescued two years ago by her now parents and quickly displayed her natural athletic abilities. She loves to run for miles at a time, all while conquering every boulder or hill she may face. She also has built herself a reputation around Auditorium Shores and Zilker Park for making circles looking for someone to run alongside. Indy uses her natural herding instincts to teach puppies not to stray from their parents. She also knows the importance of stretching; Indy always makes sure to start her mornings and end her naps with a nice downward and upward dog stretch.

JERRY GARCIA,

(Dachshund) Jerry is a small, but mighty, little lady and is the epitome of an underdog story. Suffering from intervertebral disc disease twice, Jerry was rendered paralyzed in her back two legs. After having two corrective surgeries, Jerry is fully mobile and stronger than ever â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and has even completed a 5K since her surgeries. Her favorite activities include fetching and digging for hours. She also placed second in a dachshund swimming competition and regularly drops her favorite ball into creeks just so she can jump after it.

MARCH

2019

Goose logvreesenbelt hitting rtyheweekend eve

GOOSE,

(Australian Shepherd) If she is not walking directly beside her owner, Di Borejsza, people question Goose’s whereabouts. She goes everywhere with her mom — backpacking and camping trips, hitting the greenbelt every weekend and tagging along with her to work at Knockout Kickboxing studio. She can 360 jump, weave in and out of legs, chase deep Frisbee throws and swim. Goose may appear a bit “big boned” but this lady shows fitness comes in all shapes and sizes.

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ZELLY,

Zelly likes to hike and explore central Texas 3

(Belgian Sheep Dog) Zelly is the decathlete of dogs. She competes in nearly every sport — agility, barn hunt, obedience, bitework, dock diving and lure coursing. She’s even competed in three dock diving nationals, including her most recent in Orlando, Florida. Zelly also loves to hike and explore central Texas with her parents. She’s always happy and playful. On top of all that, she is currently training to be a search and rescue dog.

MARCH

2019

HARVEY,

3.5

(Boxer mix) Harvey was dropped off at a local police station in a box with four of his brothers and sisters, all with Coccidia. After being administered an IV and taken into foster care, Harvey is now happy, healthy, energetic and playful. Harvey loves healthy foods, especially bananas. He loves sprinting, Frisbee and knows how to sit pretty. If you want to know how he is thinking or feeling, just look to his gravity-defying ears â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which are always on a swivel.

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

HOGAN JUNIOR (JUNIOR), 3

(Charcoal Labrador) A born and raised Austinite, Junior sticks to his inherited traits as a labrador — sweet and gentle, but full of energy and playful. He always has wide eyes and a smile on his face. Junior is a trained hunting dog and loves to go out with his dad. He loves retrieving dove and duck, whether real or just a toy. He also loves swimming, hiking at Turkey Creek Trail, his twice daily walks and playing with his brother, Rusty.

DIXIE LOU,

9 MONTHS

Rottsky (Rottweiler Husky) Dixie Lou is not your average 80-pound puppy. Not only do her different colored eyes stand out, but she is a dog of many talents. Dixie Lou loves to see how many treats she can catch in a row. She holds a current record of 49, but is working on breaking 50. When she’s not training or catching treats in her mouth, she loves to play fetch and practice her second language, English. She can say “I love you” and regularly lets her people and even strangers know.

MARCH

2019

BENSON,

(Golden Doodle) Benson is a rescue dog who tore his ACL when he was hit by a car. Now fully recovered from his injuries, Benson is as sweet and soft as he is active. He loves going to the dog park and running around his backyard at high speeds. Benson is also a great running companion. He loves to hunt and chase squirrels in his free time â&#x20AC;&#x201D; especially the neighborhood squirrel, Carl.

t a e r g a s i Bensong companion runnin

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

K ATIE,

Katie hopes to a therapy dog w be she retires hen

(Chocolate Labrador) Being an eight-time AKC title holder, Katie is always on the go. She competes nationally and is typically busy training for several of the many dog events she competes in. She is also a trained hunting dog. Katie also might look familiar as she has been involved with many print and television ads. But despite the elite resume, Katie is still well-rounded. She is friendly and loves life, and her owners hope to use her as a therapy dog after she retires.

MARCH

2019

NICA,

(Mixed breed) Nica is the Trail Roots running group mascot. She loves joining on their Saturday morning runs and knows who to run with in order to get in her 10 miles. When Nica is not running with the Trail Roots group, she runs with her mom and brother on the road two to three times a week. She also likes to travel and explore new places. She has run in the mountains of Lake Tahoe, California; Santa Fe, New Mexico; Buena Vista, Colorado; and Boone, North Carolina — as well as other Trail Roots expedition trips. She also enjoys laying on the beach, river rafting and canoeing.

STELLA,

(Deer-tailed Chihuahua) Stella was found running down Kingsbury road by Pease Park. After making sure she wasn’t chipped or didn’t belong to anyone, she was officially adopted by her new owners. Since then, she has been paddleboarding, running and playing in every amazing place a dog would love in Austin. When she’s not moving around and playing, Stella loves to curl up and snuggle.

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

THE MIGHTY

SERVICE DOG

MARCH

2019

SERVICE DOGS, INC. IS GIVING PEOPLE AND DOGS A NEW LEASE ON LIFE. BY ADOPTING SHELTER AND CAREER CHANGE ANIMALS, THIS ORGANIZATION GIVES DOGS A SECOND CHANCE AT SERVICE AND COMPANIONSHIP. BY AMANDA POWELL PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN FITZSIMMONS

hile Austin as a whole is a dogfriendly place, we often don’t think about the working dogs in our beloved city. But the canines at Service Dogs, Inc. are changing the lives of their humans by giving them back their independence. Sheri Soltes, founder and president of Service Dogs, Inc., started the organization in 1988. Previously a trial lawyer, Soltes decided to leave her practice to build the organization because of her love for animals. She made the transition after reading an article about shelter dogs that helped people with disabilities. “I’ve always been the kind of person that wants to rescue every animal,” Soltes says. “And [the article] lit a fire in me to get dogs that other people threw away and train them to help people who are often marginalized. The person helps the dog and the dog helps the person, so it’s 50 percent on each end of the leash.” It’s no easy task, though, and the dogs selected spend months in training before earning the official title as a Service or Hearing Dog. Hundreds of hours of training are used to ensure that

LADY

Service Dog in Training

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

“IT WORKS OUT REALLY WELL FOR BOTH OF OUR ORGANIZATIONS BECAUSE THEY WANT THEIR DOGS TO GO ON AND HAVE A JOB, AND WE’RE ABLE TO GIVE THE DOGS A SECOND CHANCE TO HAVE A WORKING LIFE.” this is the right path for the dog, and it’s excited and willing to do the job. The animals in the program are both shelter and “career change” dogs from Guide Dogs for the Blind. A career change happens when a dog is on the path to become a Guide Dog, but has a personality trait that isn’t the best fit for the program, such as getting distracted by other animals. However, Becky Kier, director of training at Service Dogs, Inc., pointed out that if a dog isn’t the right fit for someone with a visual impairment, it could still potentially be trained as a Service Dog. “It works out really well for both of our organizations because they want their dogs to go on and have a job, and we’re able to give the dogs a second chance to have a working life,” Kier says. When it comes to the shelter animals, a dog must have just the right temperament to be eligible for the program. When choosing a dog, Kier looks for dogs

MARCH

CHANEL

Service Dog in Training

2019

between the ages of one and two that are confident but not overly excited. Kier said she’ll typically look at about 1,000 shelter dogs before she picks one for the program. One dog named Excalibur was adopted into the program from what used to be Town Lake Animal Shelter. Excalibur was eventually placed with Ray McCoy. McCoy has a rare disease that causes spinal cord tumors, which limit his range of motion and can cause instant blackouts. One of the ways that McCoy can find relief is by soaking in a hot bath. On one particular occasion, McCoy fainted while he was reaching to turn the water off from the filling tub. When he awoke, Excalibur was dragging him from the tub by his ankle. Fortunately, McCoy was able to roll out of the tub with Excalibur’s help. And without being told, Excalibur went and retrieved McCoy’s cell phone. What makes this story even more incredible is that Excalibur was terrified of running water, likely due to abuse from his life before he was adopted by Service Dogs, Inc. “Not only did he figure out what to do to save Ray, but he overcame his biggest fear to do it,” Soltes says. “And that’s because of the foundation of the relationship that’s the basis of our training. That was a moment that I’m always very proud of.” After a dog is selected for the program, basic training starts. Generally, dogs that were adopted from shelters will stay longer in this stage, since they haven’t had the foundation of training. This stage of training allows the staff to see what a dog’s strengths are. For example, a hearing dog

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

will typically have more energy than a typical Assistance Dog, since they need to be on high alert in order to respond to specific sounds, such as a beeping microwave. And if it’s determined that one of the dogs isn’t a good fit, they get adopted and make a career change to a family pet. Once basic training is complete, dogs move pretty seamlessly into advanced training. Within this stage, Service Dogs learn commands such as tug, push and retrieve, and hearing dogs begin working on sound alerts. Service Dogs, Inc. is also starting to train courthouse dogs, where a dog learns to be completely still on a witness stand and comfort children when they are in court for abuse or other crimes. The start of advanced training is also when the team starts to look at “matching.” This is the point when a dog gets placed with a client. Advanced training typically lasts for two to three months, and then comes team training. Team training lasts five days, and all clients come into the facility to meet the dogs. This is a big step since the waitlist at Service Dogs, Inc. is currently over a year, and the country-wide average is three to five years. After five days at the facility, dogs then move to home training for 13 weeks, where custom behaviors are covered and the dogs take public outings to make sure they’re comfortable in the new setting. The training comes to an end with a Public Access Test and an official certification from Service Dogs, Inc. Of course, there’s also a three-month, six-month and yearly check-in for the life of the dog to ensure that the transition goes smoothly and skills are maintained. While it’s difficult to fathom just how much work goes into selecting and training a single animal, the end result of seeing how impactful these dogs are makes it truly worth it for the staff. “We are always excited to see them go do their real job,” Kier says. “For us, it’s like watching your kid go off to college. It’s bittersweet, but you don’t want them to stay at home forever. These dogs want their person. They want this life. We end up being a part of the client’s extended family as well. So, it’s like we’re welcoming the client into our family versus losing the dog.”

MARCH

COMET

Hearing Dog in Training

2019

Of course, Service Dogs, Inc. couldn’t do this work without the help of the community, which is why every year they host the Mighty Texas Dog Walk. This 1-mile parade of dogs brings in about 10 percent of the funds the organization needs to continue its efforts. This year is special because it’s the 20th anniversary, and the staff is hoping to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest group photo of dogs and owners. The current record is 108, so they’re hoping to surpass that number. The theme this year is High School Reunion. Owners and dogs

are encouraged to dress in costumes to win prizes. There will also be free samples of dog food, treats and advice from top veterinarians and dog trainers in Austin. The big day is Saturday, March 23 at the Austin American-Statesman. For the staff at Service Dogs, Inc. it’s about bringing the community together and keeping dogs and humans active, healthy and fulfilled. “Walking with your dog is great for both of you, because you both get fit and it enriches both of your lives,” Soltes says. afm

“FOR US, IT’S LIKE WATCHING YOUR KID GO OFF TO COLLEGE. IT’S BITTERSWEET, BUT YOU DON’T WANT THEM TO STAY AT HOME FOREVER.”

GALAXY

Hearing Dog in Training

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

SPECIAL PROMOTION

a 2019

PET PET=

Guide

From food, to veterinary care and more, we’ve got a pet guide that covers all your best friend’s needs.

MARCH

2019

SPECIAL PROMOTION

PAZ

PA Z V E T. C O M

PAZ Veterinary is not only here for your pet, but also for you. We strongly believe going to the vet shouldn’t be an anxiety-inducing chore, and our mission is to make you the best friend a pet can have and the most informed guardian they could ever wish for. If you’re seeking a vet who provides an excellent patient and client experience, we’d love to have you join the PAZ family! Whether you’re needing to book a wellness appointment, sick appointment, or emergency care, we’re here to meet your and your furry friends’ needs. Our therapies range from Chinese herbals and acupuncture to laser therapy and advanced surgery, and the Austin pet parent community is loving it. Our clients have recognized us for our superb customer service and results-driven patient care, and we’ve been voted Austin’s best vet the past four years! Come see what the hype is all about. We can’t wait to meet you!

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P.S. Our third clinic will launch this summer on Burnet. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website for updates!

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

SPECIAL PROMOTION

AUSTIN PET STYLIST

AU S T I N P E T S T Y L I S T. C O M

APS is home to two Nationally Certified Master Groomers — Jade Joy and Edith Coffey — and truly has some of the most talented groomers in Austin. Their experienced staff do baths, deshedding, toothbrushing, wall-in nails, shave-downs, handstripping and customized haircuts of your choice for all dog breeds under 65 lbs. The calm atmosphere makes it a great place to bring your dog in for a relaxing bath and spa treatment. They stay busy so pre-booking is a must! Call or text 512.200.4229 for an appointment or quote.

GROCERY PUP

G R O C E R Y P U P. C O M

Grocery Pup is an Austin born and bred company that provides fresh dog food that’s as close to homemade as it gets without making it yourself. Grocery Pup was co-founded by Ruth Stedman, who adopted her pup Lola with her husband Javier while they were students at the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin. Lola, an adorable Pomksy, quickly became the center of their family. Similar to how they choose their own food, they knew they wanted Lola to have a fresh whole foods diet. Grocery Pup meals are cooked sous-vide, a unique low-temperature cooking process that retains the nutritional value of the ingredients like raw food but eliminates any harmful pathogens. All of its ingredients are human-grade, non-GMO, and pesticide-free. Grocery Pup takes extra care in cooking its food by making its meals in a USDA certified kitchen in Texas following the same safety and quality standards as human food. It’s Grocery Pup’s mission to build a community of health conscious dog-owners who hold their dog food to as high of a standard as the food we consume. Grocery Pup is available at Tomlinson’s Feed throughout Austin or you can order online at grocerypup.com. MARCH

2019

SPECIAL PROMOTION

KIM THE DOG TRAINER

KIMTHEDOGTRAINER.COM

Dog trainer Kim Roche has a seemingly magic ability. Canines inherently know to listen to her calming presence. It’s not surprising when you learn that this Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) has been working one-on-one and in groups with pups for over 20 years. Her calm, collected vibe is reflected in her dog-friendly, humane and compassionate training methods using rewards to teach you and your doggo to communicate effectively. Kim offers group classes for basic through advanced training as well as a board and train program where your best pal lives with Kim for a spell to learn and practice new obedience behaviors. That perfect Austin spring weather is almost here, and that means long walks on the Green Belt or grabbing beers with friends on an outdoor patio. With Kim’s help, you can bring your furball family members along for the fun without worrying about being distracted by wrangling your best friends to behave. Need a hand with training? Drop Kim a line.

SIR FUR PETS MOBILE GROOMING

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Are you looking good? So should your dog and cat. They can at Sir Fur Pets™ Mobile Grooming. Don't bother commuting and adding driving hours to your day taking your pets to a groom shop. We come to you. No traffic issues when you call us. Chosen as an Austin Critics Choice in 2005 by the Austin Chronicle, Sir Fur Pets™ Mobile Grooming continues to serve our clients with professional and reliable service. Forget that need for any hookups or household furry, messy bathtubs. Fully selfcontained, we carry our own clean water, tub, table, air dryer and groom in our mobile shop right outside your door. Spend more time on anything on your to do list, but check off the pet groomer trips. It is so simple!

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

NULO PET FOOD

N U LO. C O M

Founded in Austin, and independently owned and operated, Nulo Pet Food believes that our pets inspire us to be the best version of ourselves, so they provide top quality nutrition and ingredients that will keep pets at their best every single day. With a variety of premium food and treats that provide natural nutrition, high animal-based protein, low carb ingredients and a patented probiotic for ongoing immune and digestive health, Nulo cuts no corners when it comes to providing your pet with the core nourishment they need without the fillers they don’t.

> SUNSHINE RUN

AU S T I N S U N S H I N E R U N . C O M

Wondering how to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with your furry friend? The Sunshine Run has you covered! It’s a dog-friendly race that takes place in Downtown Austin on May 5. Runners of all ages are welcome to participate. The race includes a timed 5K/10K, an untimed 5K/walk, a Kids 1K for the little ones, and the Fastest Dog in Austin 5K where you can run with your pup! The non-profit race benefits Austin Sunshine Camps (ASC). ASC sends underprivileged, high-potential youth to an unforgettable summer camp free-of-charge to their families, in the heart of Zilker Park. The fastest three dogs will win prizes courtesy of Nulo Pet Food. Have a dog that prefers a Sunday stroll to racing pace? That’s okay, bring ‘em out to jog or walk with you! They’ll have dog bowls at every water stop to keep them as hydrated as you are. Just make sure all dogs are on a leash and don’t trip up other runners trying to achieve their goals. We’ll see you and fido on the course!

MARCH

2019

AAUUSSTTIINN FFIITT MMAAGGAAZZIINNEE’’SS

FITTEST DOG ISSUE RELEASE y t r a P SATURDAY, MARCH 9TH • 2:00PM-5:00PM FREE with RSVP • Sponsored by Nulo

Hosted at

Lucky Dog Running (Grand Opening) | 517 S. Lamar Enjoy a gift bag, the Nulo pup photo booth, drinks

Also join in Stretches from STretchlab, Pup

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Six Tips

FOR SAFELY EXERCISING YOUR DOG IN AUSTIN’S HOT WEATHER These steps will help your pup avoid overheating in a Texas summer.

n Austin, the average temperature during the “dog days” of summer hovers in the mid-90s. That’s hot, but when you consider that our summer temperatures frequently creep into the 100s, you start to realize how important it is to keep your dog cool and hydrated while you’re exercising together outdoors. Just like humans, dogs can struggle on hot days. Without proper care, they can even suffer dehydration or heatstroke. Follow these tips to help keep your canine comfortable and safe when the temperature soars.

out in the morning, well before the hottest part of the day. The evening is another good time to get them outside, when the temperature has started to drop.

EXERCISE WITH YOUR DOG EAR LY I N THE MORNING O R LATE AT NIGHT.

Along with cold water, serving your dog snacks that you’ve kept in the refrigerator is a great way to help them stay cool. Cold snacks, like Nulo’s Training

When the forecast calls for scorching temperatures, try to get your dog

MARCH

BR IN G P L E N T Y O F CO L D WAT E R AN D A BOW L .

Dogs regulate their body temperature by panting — cooling themselves by letting water evaporate from their tongues. Because your pup loses moisture while panting, bring plenty of ice water, and don’t forget a portable bowl for them to drink from. GIVE YO U R DO G FROZE N S N ACKS .

Treats and Jerky Strips, are great for short workouts in the park, while chilled Protein Sticks are perfect for boosting his energy on longer adventures. G R O O M YO U R DO G S, BU T AS K YO U R VE T BE FO R E YO U S HAVE T H E M

Many dogs have layers of different types of hair that work together to insulate their body against extreme temperatures. By keeping your pup’s hair matand tangle-free, you’ll help keep them cool. And because their hair might actually be helping to regulate their body temperature, avoid the temptation to shave your dog in the summer, at least until you’ve spoken to your vet. CHO O S E P L ACE S W ITH S H A D E AN D, IF P O S S IBL E , WAT E R .

Head for a spot that offers plenty of shade and water. Parks with trees are a great idea, as are lakes; not only does submerging himself in cold water lower your dog’s body temperature, but as they dry off the evaporating water will keep them cool for a long time after the swim. WATC H F O R S I G N S O F D E H Y D R AT I O N O R H E AT S T R O K E .

Even the most careful dog owner needs to watch out for signs of dehydration and heatstroke in pets on a scorching summer day. If your dog is panting or drooling heavily, having trouble breathing or acting strangely in any way, it’s important to cool them down and get them to the vet as soon as you can. afm

2019

Bring cold Nulo Training Treats with you outdoors

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

WELLNESS AUTHOR

Jill Birt, RN, RYT, doTERRA advocate

ESSENTIAL OILS VERSUS STANDARD MEDICAL PRACTICE When do you use essential oils and when do you reach for the pills or make the doctor appointment?

MARCH

ealthcare advances have moved medical professionals toward the realization that there is not a onesize-fits-all practice. Treating the individual matters. Every day new research sources new wisdom on alternative and long-practiced treatment options. Often these ideas either replace or complement current medical practices. It is a privilege to be living in a time when we have an abundance of options available to individualize how we manage our health needs.

2019

With an abundance of choices, which options should you choose?

However, the difference between home remedies and doctor-prescribed treatment can make it difficult to find a happy medium. With this abundance of choices, which options should one choose? As you might expect, the answer mostly lies within the individual. The differences in individual choice are vast. Our American healthcare system has sought balance between those who utilize emergency rooms in search of treatment for a common cold and those who avoid doctors and hospitals entirely â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even when experiencing serious conditions and discomfort. When a person has an ailment, their choice of treatment is often guided by countless personal factors including individual beliefs, programmed practices, financial opportunity, trusting relationships, past experiences, relationships with healthcare providers, personal knowledge and inquiry and familiarity.

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?

Understanding what essential oils are and what they can do is the first step to understanding when and how they should be used in conjunction with or instead of modern Western medication. Essential oils are just recently gaining popularity in the United States, but

they have been used to support health and wellbeing in many cultures for over 1,000 years. An essential oil is one of the many chemical constituents which make up the protective support system of a plant. The properties of each essential oil are individual to the needs of the plant. These compounds can be found in the leaves, roots, stems, seeds, flowers, bark, resin and rinds of plants and fruits. An enjoyed benefit of essential oils lies in the carbon-based similarity between humans and plants. This commonality allows essential oils to support the body at a cellular level with little to no side effects when used properly. A great way to utilize essential oils is for common ailments that would typically be cared for at home. For example, the antiseptic property of Melaleuca (tea tree oil) makes it a great choice for cuts and wounds. The first and most important step is to use oils from a company with sound and ethical sourcing practices including transparency and measured quality standards. Companies holding reputable standards of practice extract essential oils via steam distillation or a cold-pressed method. When using an essential oil to support a healthcare need, these properties

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WELLNESS

“

WHEN ENVIRONMENTAL THREATS ARE HIGH, ESSENTIAL OILS CAN BE USED TO BOOST THE BODY’S NATURAL DEFENSE SYSTEMS.” offer a guide to choosing which oil best fits the need. This ensures a clean, high-quality, therapeuticgrade essential oil. Follow the recommended usage guidelines regarding safety, dosage, dilution and methods of usage just as you would a prescribed or over-thecounter medication.

MAKING THE SHIFT

When does one start implementing essential oils into their lifestyle and choosing them instead

MARCH

of drugs for various ailments? One example would be to use peppermint oil to treat a headache rather than acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Lavender for a bug bite rather than an antihistamine cream. Roman Chamomile for sleep troubles in place of an OTC sedative. Essential oils can also provide great support to individual emotional needs. Citrus oils are energizing and uplifting and can be a nice alternative to caffeine or energy drinks. Vetiver oil supports a feeling of being rooted or grounded and therefore can offer support to those who often have difficulty with concentration or anxious feelings. Another way to use essential oils is for preventative support. Research studies have found essential oils such as frankincense can support cellular health and the immune system. When environmental threats are high,

essential oils can be utilized to boost the body’s natural defense systems. It is well-known that stress can be very taxing to the immune system and studies also have shown that using aromatherapy (which contains essential oils) can reduce stress.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE INDIVIDUAL

So, how does one go about making the decision to use an essential oil instead of a standard medical treatment for any given condition? Again, we go back to the individual experience. Depending on the circumstance, those who commonly use essential oils may feel comfortable using them along with close observation and measure of improvement of symptoms, while others may choose to follow a more mainstream practice with standard medical care. The choice to use an essential oil often coincides with experience and comfort level. Someone who is interested in more natural remedies but is unfamiliar with essential oils could begin by using an oil in place of a traditional choice of treatment. When choosing to compliment essential oils with standard practice, it is helpful to seek out providers who are knowledgeable in alternative treatment options. Essential oils can be used in conjunction with other care choices, but it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider when doing so. As always, if a health situation is serious or life-threatening, advanced or emergency medical attention should be sought. afm

2019

WELLNESS AUTHOR

Alex Winkelman Zeplain of Hello My Tribe

SELF-CARE DURING PREGNANCY Practical ways to utilize yoga, meditation and breathing throughout pregnancy and childbirth

MARCH

a survivor of postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. She is also a yogi, and founder of Prepared, a birth preparation platform. Birt empowers women throughout pregnancy with the teachings of yoga, the science of pregnancy and childbirth and practical tools to lean on. ALEX: How do the principles of

yoga translate to pregnancy?

JILL: The truth about pregnancy,

labor, delivery and motherhood is that just as life, they each are largely unpredictable. Often, the more we attempt to predict and control our experiences the more difficult they can become. Each are living experiences and therefore follow the path of present truth, and at times can become overwhelming, emotional and powerful. The study and practice of yoga brings about the connection of mind, body and

Lacey Melguizo

ith pregnancy comes massive change and growth, both physically and mentally. It’s truly a transformative time in a woman’s life as she spends 40 weeks growing a temporary organ (seriously) and a baby. The experience is life changing. But pregnancy can also be full of fear, anxiety, physical pain and many unknowns. Hello My Tribe focuses on the wellbeing of women and mothers, and believes in guilt-free self-care. It’s imperative to take care of the mind, body and spirit throughout motherhood, and even better to start the habit of self-care during pregnancy. This month, I sat down with Hello My Tribe expert Jill Birt to chat about physical and mental selfcare during pregnancy. Jill Birt is a registered Labor and Delivery nurse,

2019

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

WELLNESS

Postures, meditations and breathing can help create strength and wellness during pregnancy.

spirit creating both physical and mental tools for strength and wellness. Through the physical movement and postures as well as meditation and breathing, a balance of state is achieved and equanimity can be found. ALEX: Which key areas of the body

JILL: First and foremost, the “self.” Taking time to strengthen and sturdy confidence within her own abilities allows her to navigate with clarity. A woman’s intuition is strong and trustworthy. Physically speaking, the lungs are a key area. Pregnancy is physically taxing. Not only is there the obvious added weight and congestion of space, but also the large increase in blood volume which the lungs are working overtime to provide for.

MARCH

A regular balanced routine of both strengthening and stretching for the entire body is important. The pelvis and pelvic floor also hold high importance. Labor and childbirth is likely the most physically strenuous activity a woman will do in her lifetime, but one we are probably the least “trained” for. There was a time when the requirements of daily life provided adequate “training,” but our

2019

Heather Gallagher

are important to pay attention to during pregnancy?

modern lifestyles do not offer these same levels of physical activity. ALEX: What specific movements are helpful as

the body grows and changes?

JILL: Breathing exercises that encourage expansion of the lungs in all directions: sides, back, top, bottom. The lungs provide tremendous support to the whole of the body in so many ways. Yoga postures such as cat/cow, child’s pose, modified push ups, lunges (low, mid, high), Warrior 1 and Warrior 2, squats, wide legged forward folds and butterfly are all helpful movements during pregnancy. ALEX: What are your recommendations for a

woman feeling extra tired during pregnancy?

JILL: Move your body. Take deep breaths all the way

to the base and back of your lungs. This will increase the circulating oxygen providing energy. Take a walk outside, practe yoga, dancing, etc. Moving the body increases circulation and stimulates hormone responses that equal an energy and mood boost. Keep a regular schedule, including bed and wake times as much as possible. Hydrate and eat well. afm

“

Pregnancy brings so many unknowns. What practical tools help calm the mind and heart, alleviating stress and anxiety?

Pranayama (breathing exercises) such as ujjayi breath (in/out through the nose), counted breaths with the exhales gradually becoming longer than the inhales, and nadi shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) are great. The practice of Pratyahara (drawing of the senses inward)

Inversions where the head is below the heart such as downward dog and child’s pose Abhyanga (practice of self oil massage)

Aromatherapy Spend time with people who support and love you. Do things that make you happy.

Meditation Believe in yourself. Movement Find a spiritual connection. Rest

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

WELLNESS AUTHOR

Kelly Frossard

NAVIGATING MASSAGE THERAPY Which type of massage is best for you?

hether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re new to massage or youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never ventured past the traditional Swedish technique, it might be confusing to navigate through all the different types of massages. There are are many forms of massage therapy that focus on different parts of the body for different healing methods. Knowing which one caters best to your needs can make all the difference.

MARCH

SWEDISH MASSAGE

Swedish massage is the most well-known form of massage therapy. It relaxes the body by enhancing circulation and blood flow to the large muscle groups. This full body massage consists of kneading, long strokes, deep circular movements and passive joint movements in order to stimulate nerve endings and increase lymph drainage and blood flow.

HOT STONE

A hot stone massage is similar to a Swedish massage, only the massage therapist uses heated stones in addition to their hands. The added heat from the stones helps to relieve muscle pain and tension. During the massage, smooth, heated stones (usually made of basalt) are placed on specific parts of the body. The therapist then uses the stones for the same long strokes and kneading found in a Swedish massage. A hot stone massage can benefit those with muscle tension, insomnia or stress.

2019

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AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

WELLNESS

SPORTS MASSAGE

Sports massage therapy is geared toward athletes of every sport and level. The techniques used in the massage are specific to an athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific sport, focusing on areas of the body that are overused and stressed during practice and competition. This technique can be used as a means to both enhance pre-competition preparation and reduce recovery time after a competition. Many athletes use sports massage to increase flexibility, reduce fatigue

MARCH

and improve or help prevent injuries for optimal performance.

DEEP TISSUE

Similar to a Swedish massage, a deep tissue massages uses the same long stroking and kneading movements to relax the body and alleviate pressure. Once the body is warmed up, the massage therapist will begin to work deep into problem areas, targeting the inner layers of muscles, tendons and fascia. To add more pressure

for a deeper massage, the therapist may use their forearms and elbows in addition to their hands. This form of massage therapy is best for those with chronic muscle problems, soreness, injury or imbalance.

SHIATSU MASSAGE

A shiatsu massage is a Japanese form of massage therapy that uses varied, rhythmic pressure on certain points of the body. The therapist will use their fingers,

2019

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thumbs and palms for a pulsing and rhythmic massage that is believed to improve the flow of the body’s vital energy. This relaxing form of massage is best suited for those who want to relieve stress and tension.

THAI MASSAGE

Unlike traditional forms of massage therapy, a Thai massage uses stretching, pulling and rocking to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility. The therapist uses their hands, knees, legs and feet to move the body into yoga-like stretches. They also will use their palms and fingers to apply firm pressure to the muscles. A Thai massage improves flexibility and circulation, and is best for those who want a more active form of massage.

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TRIGGER POINT MASSAGE

Trigger point massage therapy focuses on relieving pain in specific areas of tightness in the muscle tissues known as trigger points. It is best suited for people with injuries or chronic pain. In this technique, the therapist uses gentle, flowing strokes combined with stronger, deeper pressure to massage the whole body and target the specific areas of pain. These cycles of isolated pressure relax the body and relieve painful trigger points. afm

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FITNESS AUTHOR

Jen Daugherty

HEATED VINYASA YOGA VERSUS BIKRAM YOGA: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

or a yoga novice, deciding on which hot yoga class to try can be a little confusing and intimidating. Maybe you didn’t realize there were different types of hot yoga before walking into a studio. Truth be told, not all hot yoga classes are the same. Heated Vinyasa and Bikram yoga are both Hathabased practices that typically take place in a heated room. Svatmarama, the creator of Hatha yoga, introduced his system in Hatha Yoga Pradipika as a preparatory stage for physical purification that the body practices for higher meditation or yoga. All Hatha yoga is based on asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing techniques).

Hot yoga classes are all sweaty, but they’re not all created equal.

MARCH

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All Hatha yoga is based on asanas and pranayama, but not all heated yoga classes are the same.

However, there are several differences between heated Vinyasa and Bikram yoga. “Vinyasa” is a Sanskrit word that has several different meanings and may be deciphered by its Sanskritic roots. “Nyasa” denotes “to place,” and “vi” means “in a special way.” Some of the most common definitions for vinyasa include (but are not limited to) linking breath with movement. Generally, vinyasa is used as a noun to describe the sequence of poses that are performed between Adho Mukha Svanasanas (downward facing dog) as part of a Surya Namaskara (sun salutation) sequence; however, this is more correctly termed “half vinyasa,” since vinyasa returns to complete standing asana or positions. Most, if not all, vinyasa classes contain some variation of a sun salutation (Surya Namaskar), whether it’s simply for warming up in the beginning or flowing from one pose to another. Heated Vinyasa yoga is ideally practiced in a room

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FITNESS heated to approximately 78 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the studio. You can expect a flowing class that contains pranayama, sometimes music and a variety of different poses that range from novice level to advanced. All vinyasa classes vary in intensity and pace, but, overall, when practicing Vinyasa yoga, movement and breath should always be simultaneous. Bikram yoga, on the other hand, is a set sequence of yoga asanas that Bikram Choudhury generated by using traditional Hatha yoga asanas. Bikram yoga classes run for 90 minutes and consist of the

same series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises. The asana series is designed to scientifically warm and stretch muscles, ligaments and tendons in the order in which bikram dictates they should be stretched. Bikram yoga is practiced in a room heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, with a humidity of 40 percent. You can expect the exact same 90-minute class each time you attend. Both Bikram and Vinyasa Yoga represent a precise and disciplined approach to heated yoga. However, while bikram strictly adheres to a set of postures, vinyasa has a greater fluidity and variance in

asanas. If you’re the kind of person who wants to know exactly what they’re getting into with heated yoga, take a bikram class. If you’re looking for a varied practice with a general foundation, go for vinyasa. For either, you’ll want to be sure you’re properly hydrated and ready to sweat much more than a nonheated yoga class. There are several different varieties of yoga out there, so don’t hesitate to try them all. Yoga is a very personal and sacred practice. Find out which ones resonate with you the most, and embrace them. afm

Asana warms and stretches muscles, ligaments and tendons

MARCH

2019

MARCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Exposure

PHOTOGRAPHER BECCA MATIMBA L O C AT I O N

Kawela Bay, Hawaii

FITNESS SPONSOR

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BOSU BALL WORKOUT Intimidated by the Bosu ball? Use this workout as a guide! CASTLE HILL FITNESS 512.478.4567 castlehillfitness.com Downtown Location: 1112 N Lamar Blvd Unit B Austin, TX 78703 360 Location: 3801 N Capital of Texas Hwy I-100, Austin, TX 78746

WARM-UP

(20 SECONDS EACH) 1) HIGH KNEES Running in place slowly, bring your knees up towards the chest.

Veera Korjala & Jeremy Sims

2) BUTT KICKS Running in place slowly, bring your heels towards your glutes. 3 ) F R O N T H E E L TO U C H E S Standing with feet shoulder width apart, bring the heel of your foot to the opposite hip.

MARCH

2019

4) KNEE SKIP R E A R H E E L TO U C H E S Standing with feet shoulder width apart, bring the heel of your foot to the opposite glute.

THE WORKOUT

(8 MOVEMENTS 3 SETS OF 10-15 REPETITIONS) Veera Korjala is demonstrating Level 1, Jeremy Sims is demonstrating Level 2.

1 ) B O S U S Q UAT Level 1: Stand on the round side of the Bosu ball with a hip width stance. Inhale bend the knees to lower hips down while keeping your knees aligned with your feet. Exhale return back to starting position.

Level 2: Stand on the flat side of the Bosu ball.

2) BOSU RENEGADE ROW Level 1: With the Bosu round side up, place one hand in the center of the ball and the other on the ground beside the ball. Exhale pull the hand up keeping the elbow by the ribcage. Inhale return to the starting position.

Level 2: Place your feet on top of Bosu while in a high-plank position. Exhale pull the hand up keeping the elbow by the rib cage while lifting opposite leg off the Bosu. Inhale return to the starting position.

3 ) B O S U LU N G E S Level 1: Start with your feet together a couple of feet from the Bosu ball. Step sideways to let your foot land on the Bosu ball. Squat down and then push your foot back up and bring your feet together.

Level 2: Start with your feet together a couple of feet from the BOSU ball. Step sideways to let your foot land on the BOSU ball. Pulse it out for a count of ten and then push your foot back up and bring your feet together.

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

FITNESS

4) BOSU DEADLIFT Level 1: Stand on the round side of the Bosu ball with a hip width stance. Inhale hinge forward while pushing the hips back and keeping the chest open. Exhale slowly return to the starting position.

Level 2: With the flat side up, place one foot in the center of the Bosu. Inhale hinge forward while drawing the other leg up so you are parallel to the floor. Exhale return to standing position keeping the leg lifted throughout the set.

6) BOSU BRIDGE Level 1: Lie flat on your back with your feet hip width apart placed on the round side of the Bosu. Inhale slowly raise your pelvis and hips toward the ceiling. At the top of the movement squeeze your glutes together and hold for 3-6 seconds. Exhale slowly lower yourself back to the starting position.

Level 2: Lie flat on your back with one foot placed on the center of Bosu with the round side up, and the other leg straight up. Inhale slowly raise your pelvis and hips toward the ceiling while squeezing your glutes together. Hold at the top for 3-6 seconds and exhale slowly lower yourself back the starting position.

5) BOSU PUSH UP Level 1: With the Bosu flat side up, place your hands shoulder width apart and maintain a high-plank position. Inhale slowly bend the elbows and lower the chest 1-2â&#x20AC;? from the Bosu. Exhale return to the starting position.

Level 2: With the Bosu round side up, place one hand in the center of the ball and the other on the ground beside the ball. From the high-plank position bend the elbows and lower the chest with an inhalation. Exhale return to the starting position.

MARCH

2019

7 ) S I N G L E L E G V- U P Level 1: Lie on the Bosu with the round side up. Place the lower back on the center of the Bosu with one leg extended and the other drawn in on the floor. Exhale lift the extended leg upright while reaching up with your hands touching your shins.

Level 2: Lie on the Bosu with the round side up. Sit on the center of the Bosu with both legs and arms extended out. Exhale lift both legs upright while reaching up with your hands touching your shins.

8) SIDE PLANK Level 1: Lie on your side and place your bottom elbow on the round side of the Bosu with your legs extended and your feet staggered on the ground. Exhale lift your hips off the ground and hold.

Level 2: Place your feet on top of the Bosu and lift the hips up to side plank on your elbow. Inhale extend your hand up toward the ceiling and exhale slowly lower the raised hand, reach under your bottom hips. Slowly return to the starting position.

COOL DOWN

(20-30 SECONDS HOLDS) 1 ) K N E E L I N G H I P F L E XO R S T R E TC H Place one knee on top of the Bosu and one knee bent in front of the Bosu. Shift your weight forward until you feel a stretch in your hip.

3 ) P I G E O N S T R E TC H Sit with your right knee bent and left leg extended behind you. Place right knee to right wrist and right ankle under left hip. Feel the stretch on the right hip.

2) KNEELING HAMSTRING S T R E TC H Place one knee on top of the Bosu and extend one foot straight in front of you toes pointed up. Keep back straight and shift weight back until you feel a stretch in your hamstrings.

4 ) S C O R P I O N S T R E TC H Start face down on the mat with your left arm stretched out to your side and right arm under chest. Slowly lift right leg off of the floor, cross it over your body and touch the floor on the other side. Feel the stretch in the front of left shoulder.

Cool down with this hip flexor stretch

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

WRITTEN BY MONICA HAND PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TEXAS ATHLETICS

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

RUN FOR IT Teahna Daniels prepares for her final Texas Relays as a Texas Longhorn athlete.

MARCH

2019

“

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT THE LOVE AND SUPPORT YOU FEEL. ESPECIALLY OUT ON THE FIELD DURING THE TEXAS RELAYS — IT JUST SURROUNDS YOU.

n January 26 2018, one of Teahna Daniels’ biggest fans, her father, passed away from a brain hemorrhage. At the time, it seemed like an unexpected blow to the athlete’s morale, but months later, she competed at meets like The Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays for him — and each win after that was in his honor. Now, a little over a year later, sitting in the press box overlooking the Mike A. Myers Stadium on an unusually warm February afternoon, Daniels’ smile lights up as she describes her teammates and the upcoming annual Texas Relays. This year marks the 92nd relays, and Daniels’ last as a Texas Longhorn athlete. She started at the relays in 2014 as a junior in high school. She came all the way from Orlando, Florida, to compete in the DII high school girls 100m sprint. But she did more than just compete — she won with a time of 11:37. “Winning that event in high school is still one of the greatest moments of my career,” Daniels says. “It’s what made me want to be a Longhorn — I had never been in a stadium so full of people and energy.” Even having experienced that energy as a high schooler, Daniels says it still doesn’t compare to the feeling you get running for Texas. She describes how that feeling of family began to mean so much more to her after her father passed away. “There’s nothing like wearing that Longhorn across your chest,” Daniels explains. “Knowing that the fans came to see you run.” And with her career of Big 12 Championship titles and record-pushing times, Daniels continuously points to the

support of the team and fans as her favorite part of it all. She recalls how after she came back to Texas and was greeted with so much love by her teammates. A care package of gifts and endless messages of support welcomed her home. “There’s something about the love and support you feel,” Daniels says. “Especially out on the field during the Texas Relays — it just surrounds you.” Her sophomore year in the Texas Relays, she experienced one of those injuries every athlete dreads — an injured quad. She was the first leg of the 4x1 relay, handing off to Courtney Okolo when it happened. “I heard a pop and I went down,” Daniels says. “But I still got Courtney that baton. We always put the team first, we always get back up.” Throughout the recovery process she was still alongside the team, supporting them every step of the way, just as they did for her when she finally got back on the track. And again while coping with the loss of her father. Though she’s coming up on graduation from the University of Texas at Austin, Daniels is confident that Texas Relays will not have seen the last of her. Planning to run professionally, she looks forward to the day that she can return to the stadium that has meant so much to her over the years. afm

AU S T I N F I T M AG A Z I N E

CALENDAR MARCH 2019

Submit your event online at austinfitmagazine.com

Events MARCH 2-3

Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour Paramount Theatre Experience an evening of the best action and adventure sports films from the annual Banff Mountain Film Festivals at the historic Paramount Theatre. Proceeds from the Austin stop of this touring film festival go to the Texas State Parks. MARCH 5

Fat Tuesday Whislers Whisler’s kicks off their Fat Tuesday celebration with the first crawfish boil of the season and complimentary king

cake from New Orleans’ legendary Haydel’s. Hurricanes, Sazeracs and other classic New Orleans cocktails will be served up all night with the Boss Street Brass Band joining in from 6-9 p.m. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. No cover. MARCH 8-9

Austin Crawfish Festival Barton Creek Square Mall Join us to celebrate two days of crawfish and beer deep in the heart of Texas. The Austin Crawfish Festival is a festival celebrating two major industries in Texas: crawfish and beer! We bring over 8,000 pounds of fresh, Louisiana grown crawfish

to Central Texas to provide an experience like no other. Dozens of kegs full of authentic craft beer (wine available too), fresh boiled crawfish served to you in front of live music, exciting entertainment and games, Texan and domestic beer, and the finest local artists all come together at the festival. MARCH 8-17

South by Southwest® Conference & Festivals Across Austin Join us for 10 days of unparalleled discovery, learning and networking with creatives across interactive, film and music

industries. Fostering creative and professional growth alike, SXSW® is the premier destination for discovery. MARCH 9

AFM Fittest Dogs Issue Release Party Lucky Dog Running Bring your pups out to the grand opening of Lucky Dog Running shoe store where there will be snacks and drinks for you and Nulo Pet Food treats for your furry friend. Take a photo at the Nulo photo booth with your dog or even one of the fittest dogs winners. You can also get stretched out with Stretch Lab. 2-5 p.m. Free with RSVP via Eventbrite.

INDYCAR CLASSIC Circuit of the Americas MARCH 22-24

MARCH

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Rodeo Austin

MARCH 22 - 24

Indycar Classic Circuit of The Americas This spring, North America’s premier openwheel racing championship is finally coming to COTA’s hallowed Stars and Stripes to write the first chapter in a brand new racing legend. International rock superstars MUSE join the party Saturday night, bringing their electrifying live show to Austin’s big INDYCAR debut. MARCH 27-31

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World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play Austin Country Club With a rare, match-play format consisting of the top 64 players in the Official World Golf Rankings, the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play field consists of the very best players from around the world and is

ST IN

Travis County Exposition Center Over the years, Rodeo Austin has grown from a stock show featuring 16 animals into one of Austin’s premier events, featuring a top 10 ProRodeo, daily concerts, a world class livestock show and more. Rodeo Austin hosts over 100 live music performances during the 15-day Fair and Rodeo. In addition, the Rodeo Austin Scholarship Program has impacted the lives of thousands of Texas youth, donating millions of dollars to their education.

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MARCH 29

Blanton Block Party

Living & Collective and Lululemon Run Club

Blanton Museum of Art Visit the Blanton Museum’s free Block Party festival and experience the Ellsworth Kelly exhibit along with the museum’s galleries and more family-friendly activities. Expect art-making, dining, special museum tours, after-hours art viewing, a cash bar, live music, a photo booth and more.

Hill Country Galleria Lululemon Living & Collective, a group of health and nutrition coaches, is hosting a run club in partnership with Lululemon at 9:30 a.m. Participants should bring water and wear running shoes. The club will meet at the Hill Country Galleria Lululemon. MARCH 29

Power Flow Live SunstoneFIT Power Flow with LIVE MUSIC! It’s a perfect way to enjoy the SXSW spirit without having to brave downtown! DJ Daniel Zapata will tailor his tunes to your beat as you move through this guided vinyasa flow. Power Flow LIVE! is the March installment of our Sunstone Social, a monthly celebration to honor and grow our community. Participation is always free, and everyone

MARCH 31

90th ABC Kite Fest Zilker Park The ABC Kite Fest, one of Austin’s most beloved, family-friendly traditions, celebrates 90 years of kiteflying fun this March. The free festival boasts day-long activities for all ages, including the traditional kite-flying contest and showcase, a fun run, an all new pet zone and MossFest, a children’s music concert. Proceeds from ABC Kite Fest are gifted to Communities in Schools of Central Texas and the Moss Pieratt Foundation.

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CALENDAR M A R C H - M AY 2 0 1 9

Submit your event online at austinfitmagazine.com

Rides & Races STATESMAN CAP 10K Austin APRIL 7

MARCH 2

Plum Creek Challenge Kyle

MARCH 3

Bevoman Triathlon Spicewood

MARCH 3

MARCH 9

Rogue Trail Series - The Maze

PurpleStride Austin

MARCH 3

MARCH 16

Run The Alamo

St. Paddy’s 5K & 1K Leprechaun Kids Run

Austin

San Antonio

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New Braunfels MARCH 8-9

ZOOMA Women’s Race Series Lost Pines

MARCH 23

XTERRA Bluebonnet Triathlon Burnet

MARCH

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MARCH

APRIL 27

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Hell’s Hills Endurance Run Smithville APRIL 6

Fayetteville Classic (Cycling) Fayetteville

Texas Switchback Trail Race Flat Creek Crossing Ranch M AY 1 3

San Marvelous Race #3 (Cycling) New Braunfels M AY 1 3

Daisy 5K Austin

APRIL 7

Statesman Cap 10K Austin

M AY 2 4

Bike the Bricks McKinney

APRIL 13

Longhorn Run Austin

M AY 2 5

Deep in the Heart 5K APRIL 13

Pflugerville

Lockhart Kiwanis 5K Stampede Lockhart

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DFW Area Criterium (Cycling) APRIL 22

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[5]

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[1] EPA-estimated highway fuel economy for 2019 Subaru Outback 2.5i models. Actual mileage may vary. [2] 2015–2018 Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Awards are based on the Brand WatchTM study from Kelley Blue Book Strategic Insights. Award calculated among non-luxury shoppers. For more information, visit www.kbb.com. [3] MSRP $27,627, with approved credit. [4] EPA-estimated highway fuel economy for 2019 Subaru Forester models. Actual mileage may vary. [5] MSRP $28,791, with approved credit. [6] Purchase/lease any new (previously untitled) Subaru & receive a complimentary, factory scheduled maintenance plan for 2 years/24,000 miles (whichever comes first). See Subaru Added Security Maintenance Plan for intervals, coverages, & limitations. Customer must take delivery before 12/31/19 and reside within the promotional area. See Austin Subaru for program details and eligibility.

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