December 2011 Issue

Contents #AFMdec

Cover Story

JOHN PAUL DEJORIA photography by Randal Ford

[page 36] John Paul and Eloise DeJoria share their good fortune with Peace, Love & Happiness in Austin, the U.S., and around the world

The Trail Foundation [page 24] A

look at The Trail Foundation's labors of love around Lady Bird Lake

Safe Social Media [page 30] Teens, technology, and social services work together in a new safe site

CONTENTS

11

The Lance Armstrong Foundation is a 501(c)(3) under federal tax guidelines.

© LIVESTRONG, a registered trademark of the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

I A M T E A M L I V E S T RONG. THIS IS MY F INISH L INE .

Ashley Koenings LIVESTRONG Navigator

Running a marathon doesn’t compare to what cancer survivors go through on a daily basis. I trained because I wanted to see a different side of LIVESTRONG outside of my job as a navigator, and I wanted to challenge myself and have a goal.

What‘s your finish line?

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JoIN uS AT TeAMLIVESTRONG.oRg.

Contents

THE TEAM PUBLISHER/CEO Louis M. Earle

#AFMdec

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Melanie P. Moore ASSISTANT EDITOR Leah Fisher Nyfeler ART DIRECTOR Weston Carls ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Sarah Schneider VP, SALES & MARKETING Alex Earle ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Kendall Beard, Emily Nash, Amity Ponsetti DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Carrie Crowe Muscle Movement photo by Brian Fitzsimmons

Homes 4 Heroes

AFMDC Race Results

[page 44] Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco, USA (Ret.) honors war heroes with a place to call their own

[page 62] Who's out front as runners head into the first half marathon

Colin's Hope/MS 150 [page 48] Two ways to team your swim and bike training with charitable giving

Food Labels [page 51] Grocery store labels—how they look and what they say—reflect cultural preferences

Artichoke Hummus [page 56] A veggie variation of a favorite dip

Patrick Evoe [page 65] Pro Triathlete Patrick Evoe talks about the hard work of taking it easy

Kick Mo’s Butt [page 74] Mo goes with the flow at Black Swan Yoga

Muscle Movement [page 80] Workout combinations to keep your fitness over the holidays

New Winter Apparel

EDITORIAL INTERN Elizabeth Hitt GENERAL INQUIRIES info@austinfitmagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ads@austinfitmagazine.com STORY IDEAS ideas@austinfitmagazine.com EVENT LISTINGS events@austinfitmagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS austinfitmagazine.com/subscribe 1905 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 105 Austin, TX 78705 P 512.407.8383 F 512.407.8393 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.

[page 58] Workout gear for those upcoming winter days

EVERY ISSUE

CONTRIBUTORS Monica Brant, Patrick Evoe, Brian Fitzsimmons, Sally Simon, Alexa Sparkman, Diane Vives, Anne L. Wilfong

68 events calendar 70 rides & races

22 year in review

82 by the numbers PL E A

E

AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

C LE TH I S CY M Z IN

16

RE

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20 from the publisher

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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Letter from the Publisher #AFMletter

The Gift of Giving

by Lou Earle, publisher | photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

Y

ou have all heard that there are more nonprofit organizations in Austin per capita than any other city in the U.S. That would certainly suggest that our fair city is a nexus for charity and philanthropy. True or not, I can tell you that my personal experience in meeting some of the folks featured in our December philanthropy issue was both inspiring and heartrending and would support that assumption. I was blown away by the humility of John Paul and Eloise DeJoria and their gracious and caring approach to those less fortunate. Their foundation, Peace, Love & Happiness, says it all.

JP, like many successful entrepreneurs, knows what it is like to struggle and he used his tough life lessons to build a successful business empire. But he has never forgotten those hard times or what it takes to sustain his success. I was especially impressed with his approach, which not only provides support and assistance, but also focuses on teaching folks how to sustain themselves over time. JP and Eloise are not just check writers. They believe that the most charitable actions are those in which people personally engage with those they help. They make it a point to “walk the talk,” setting an incredible standard of philanthropy.

I was also fortunate to visit recently with a business colleague of mine from 30 years past who brought me and my team close to tears. Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco, USA (Ret.) started a foundation to give homes to injured veterans. You heard me right; he gives homes away for free and, like JP, he teaches his beneficiaries how to sustain those homes and make the gift work over the long term. When you hear the words and feel the raw emotion of these heroes as they tell you what it means to them and their families to realize the “American Dream” of owning their own home, there are no dry eyes in the house.

In their words, “it gives them hope” and you can’t put a value on that!

These are just two of the great stories that we bring you during this month of giving.

Please check out the rest. They are all wonderful examples of what giving and caring are all about. It is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

For us at AFM, fitness is more than just physical. Helping others to be fit, to have peace, love, and happiness is a mission we enthusiastically support. On behalf of our team, I want to thank all of those who give their time and resources in the service of the less fortunate and wish everyone a wonderful holiday and a healthy and fit new year.

#TwitFIT Question: You live here. Do you #GIVE here?

What nonprofits do you support? @StephHahnTX 6:34 a.m. via Echofon "I am supporting Bastrop fire victims through fundraising to earn my team's spot in the Texas Independence Relay." @redhotirishgirl 12:07 a.m. via Echofon "I support my church locally. (and the Girl Scouts during cookie sales!)" @AshSorv 5:47 p.m. via iPhone "@KomenAustin & CASA of Travis County. #GreatCauses" @baconator 3:18 p.m. via Proxlet "ALL OF THEM. Oh, wait, er, most of them. But usually only through ridiculous action, like 5k's and mustaches." @SpazP 3:20 p.m. via TweetDeck "I #GIVE to @BlueDogRescue! I've run the @AustinMarathon for them twice & raised over $3K collectively in sponsorships!"

Keep Austin Fit,

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

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Year in Review #2011

@Moore_Fit

June

January

February

March

April

May

July

August

September

October

November

A

s we settle into the final weeks of the year—or scurry madly to finish holiday and travel preparations, or to close that last deal—it is in many ways gratifying to look back at the accomplishments of the past year. This might have been the year of a PR for you, or the first year you did a triathlon, the year you became a vegan, or the year you abandoned vegetarian ways.

We at Austin Fit Magazine hope you will take time with your friends and family to celebrate accomplishments—yours and those of people close to you. Give yourself a pat on the back because, no matter what, you did it! You made it through this year and may have exceeded your goals along the way.

While celebrations are the fun part of looking back, there is also loss. Some losses are good—those last 10 pounds! But painful losses encroached upon the year for many of us; some people we loved are not with us this holiday season, among them Austin runner Scott Birk. We hold them in our hearts and hope for the courage they would wish for us as we move forward into 2012.

Looking back at the past year of Austin Fit Magazine it is impressive to see the variety of people who have shared their stories with us. Our own Monica Brant (Mo) who gets her “butt kicked” in the magazine with workouts every month told her story in January; with Matt Knifton who has helped make Austin into a rowing city at Austin Rowing Club, including fielding the team featur-

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

December

ing our October cover, Seton Medical Center’s Chief of Staff Dr. Karen Swenson.

This year—and each issue—was packed, from Austin’s ten fittest couples, to six of Austin’s best pet playgrounds, to the annual swimsuit issue which featured local models, to the perennially popular issue featuring Austin’s ten fittest people. We had stars – Colt McCoy, Mark Zupan, Marion Jones, Whole Foods founder John Mackey, and, this month, John Paul DeJoria.

The Inspiration issue in July is still referenced in conversation, with some of the most compelling stories of the year—Mark Zupan on the cover, and Nick and Sarah Bannon, Cortney Smith, Michael Hehl, Emily Howell, Fallon Turner, Brian Leib, and Ashley Castoreno urging us on with their candor and strength.

Whatever your accomplishments, revel in them. Whatever your regrets, take a cue from the champions we’ve covered to learn from defeat and move on. Whatever your situation, take time to reflect, remember and renew. Find the path to your best self and join us as we continue the health and fitness journey in 2012. Tell us what you think, follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Every day is a day to be thankful and be fit!

Here’s to auld lang syne,

Editor-in-Chief

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Austin

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

s ring ende R l i Tra

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il Tra he T by ed vid o r p

n tio da n u Fo

by Leah Fisher Nyfeler

here’s virtually no way to talk about Austin’s Lady Bird Lake and the recently christened Roy and Ann Butler Hike and Bike Trail that encircles it without talking about love. Runners are passionate about their time on the trail, the quiet hours spent alone at the lake’s edge, the bonds formed among groups as they make endless loops. Words like “sanctuary” and “temple” are used as substitute nouns. You can’t miss the physical manifestations of love: memorial benches, tenderly maintained gardens, stones, plaques, and sculptures all along the path. Walkers, runners, and cyclists practically love the trail to death—two people died on the Lamar Street Bridge before the Pfluger extension was built. Annually more than 1.5 million enjoy the trail and, on any given day, 10 percent of the people out there are visitors from out of town.

Love for Austin created the trail. The story goes that Ann Butler, wife of former Mayor Roy Butler, and Lady Bird Johnson were on the balcony at the Savoy Hotel in London. As they looked out at the River Thames and the beautiful public green spaces, they commented on how wonderful it was and concluded, “We can do this in Austin.” At the time, Austin’s downtown lake and trail were “stinky and dirty,” according to long-time Austin businessman and trail runner Les Gage. People went to the lake primarily to fish, and the shores had been left bare and weedy to help with flood control. Back in Austin, Butler and Johnson acted on their vision, forming the Town Lake Beautification Committee and kicking off beautification projects in 1970. Along with Gage and other prominent Austinites, they worked to clean up the trail, bring in trees and plants, and make the area around the lake a source of civic pride.

Austin’s love affair with the trail then began in earnest. By 2000, the increasing level of foot and bike traffic was taking its toll. According to Susan Rankin, Executive Director of The Trail Foundation (TTF), Dan Garrison, a local runner, went to Mayor Will Wynn

in 2003 describing the trail as crumbling and asked the City to do something about it. There were no City funds for such a project, so Garrison formed a nonprofit to raise the funds himself. Thus TTF was born, its role to “enhance and maintain” the trail beyond what the City can do. The City of Austin Parks Department performs basic maintenance (grading and erosion, bathrooms), while TTF takes on the “something extra.” It’s become an effective partnership.

With the City stretched to accomplish much beyond barebones maintenance in the early ‘00s, the newly-formed TTF undertook a pilot project to install lights on the trail at “trip and fall” areas—those troublesome spots where terrain changes or culverts and dips make travel in the dark dangerous. That pilot program was followed by a project to install stone mile markers placed every quarter mile along the 10.2 miles of the trail.

Love is literally at your feet at TTF’s first large-scale project: the renovation at Lou Neff Point. Mrs. Neff (Lou was a woman) was one of the founding members of the Beautification Committee. The gazebo won architectural awards in the ‘70s; forty years later, however, it urgently needed some attention. TTF raised funds to restore the site, working closely with the City Parks Department.

One of the primary fundraisers for the project was the installation of commemorative bricks. If you take the time to stop, you will see more than 2,000 bricks under the metal gazebo, etched with names of people, pets, runners, families, and businesses. Rankin points out with a smile there’s even a brick with “OFC,” which stands for “Old Farts Club,” a group of runners. The erosion control and landscaping across from the Point were TTF projects as well. It’s hard to remember what that corner looked

FITNESS AUSTIN IS FOR (TRAIL) LOVERS

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TTF Executive Director Susan Rankin (left), donor Norma Gillingwater (center), and landscape architect Christy Ten Eyck (right) worked closely on the Pfluger Circle Garden while Brian Ott was instrumental in the construction of the garden buffering area called "Between the Bridges" along Riverside Drive. PHOTO BY BRIAN FITZSIMMONS

like without local icon and musician Woody playing his guitar, surrounded by lush, native plants amid the gorgeous blocks of the new retaining wall.

Many people have long, loving relationships with the trail, and those loving ties have led to many of the projects TTF has undertaken. Rankin describes how the North Shore Overlook came to be refurbished: “This was paid for by a really generous, loving couple, Jim and Betty Wilson, who wanted to give back to the trail and the Austin community…that area was crumbling into the lake, fenced off; you couldn’t get there, and it’s beautiful now.” Mrs. Wilson was another of the original friends of the trail—part of that first Beautification Committee—and the Overlook is now a peaceful respite with a bench, often full of couples or families enjoying the view.

A runner’s love and love for a runner combined to form the Pfluger Circle Garden. Barry Gillingwater was a huge fan of the trail; Rankin describes him as “running when running wasn’t cool.” After Gillingwater died tragically, his family approached TTF about a memorial bench, but there were no more spaces to be had. Norma Gillingwater and their family and friends, including the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, funded the Circle Garden, which incorporates a gutter system using run-off water, graded levels, native plants, and seating. If you see a lady pruning at the Circle, it may be Mrs. Gillingwater, who often works side-by-side with landscape architect Christy Ten Eyck (Ten Eyck Landscape Architects) the designer. Rankin smiles, saying, “People often stop and comment (to Ten Eyck) about how beautiful it is, and they have no idea she’s the master creative mind behind what they’re looking at.”

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

A runner's love and love for a runner combined to form the Pfluger Circle Garden.

Much of what happens on the trail is motivated by an individual’s love and interest.

Projects like pruning the hundreds of crepe myrtles along the path, culling the invasive grapevines from the tree branches, diversifying the tree groves by planting new native seedlings, creating gardens to “buffer the urban effect” along the parking lot and roadway at Riverside—are created by the partnership between TTF, donors, and volunteers.

TTF’s biggest project, and the one most in need of funding, involves completing the hike and bike trail. If you stick to the shorter loops between MoPac and Congress Avenue, you may not have realized that the trail is unfinished. Currently, the trail breaks near the Austin American-Statesman building, forcing runners out onto the road. Runners must wind along Riverside, crossing all lanes of I-35, and meander down sidewalks to patch together a loop that resumes on the trail near Longhorn Dam. It’s an ugly, dangerous stretch, and in 2007, TTF pushed for completion. Mayor Will Wynn pushed back, asking the foundation for a study. TTF returned with the 2007 Investment Study, and the City of Austin agreed to fund the design and engineering in advance of budgeting specifics. continued on page 28

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According to Rankin, this was the first such partnership in Austin, and everything was “shovel ready” when the mobility bond project came up in 2010. Rankin explains that TTF will provide $3 million for hard construction costs of the structure, which hugs the shoreline and juts out over the water for the 1.1 mile segment. The total cost of the project is $16 million.

The project should start in February and Rankin estimates up to 24 months for completion. Rankin’s passion for the project is infectious. She describes the publicly owned—and currently inaccessible—parkland behind Joe’s Crab Shack as “beautiful.” “You’re going to see large trees. Out over the water on the boardwalk, you can look back at the city and see the skyline; you can see water birds.

That’s the route the bats fly over.”

Austinite, photographer, mom, runner, and philanthropist Lynne Dobson is every bit as passionate as Rankin when she talks about the boardwalk project and her role in it. Dobson attended The University of Texas in the 1970s. During that time, she became a runner and found the trail. Running has remained a constant for her, as have her running friends. When she turned 50, she heard about a tree-planting project TTF was organizing and instead of gifts, she asked her friends to donate. They raised $3,400 dollars for TTF and saw “the power of one transformed into the power of 50.” A few years later, the design of the boardwalk spoke deeply to her. She’d always felt a “disconnect” getting onto Riverside and donating toward the trail’s completion satisfied her desire to “give something that will last long after I’m gone.” Dobson chose to make a sizeable donation to the boardwalk project with the idea that her action might inspire others, a “C’mon, everybody, join us” gesture that

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

she hopes exemplifies her “give to live” approach to both life and the trail.

People who love the trail find ways to make it their own. As Rankin walked on a weekday morning, regulars waved hellos, asked about projects, stopped to admire plantings, and chatted about what’s new and what needs help. Roger Beasley, a regular walker, donor, and Austin businessman, asked about the status of the new Johnson Creek Trailhead project. Rankin described the “indoor-outdoor” bathrooms that will be added, the new landscaping design inclusion of the iconic “Rock,” and waxed poetic about the ten new water fountains, geo-cooled with pipes snaking under the ground, for relief on hot summer days. With 31 percent of trail users entering at this point, these improvements will have a huge impact. Beasley, along with his morning walking buddy Gage, has long been a friend to the trail. He listened to the updates, smiled and said, “Let me know how I can help.” afm Here are a few of the ways you can help The Trail Foundation raise funds for the boardwalk completion project and Johnson Creek Trailhead project: • Become a member of The Trail Foundation • Be a part of the Austin Fit Magazine Distance Challenge (TTF is this year’s beneficiary) • Run in the Moonlight Margarita 5K Run coming in June 2012 • Sponsor one of the projects • Donate your old car • Buy a commemorative brick

For information on The Trail Foundation and how to help (with money or your time), go to www.townlaketrail.org

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NEW SOCIAL NETWORKING SITE GIVES TEENS A PLACE

TO GROW

I

by Leah Fisher Nyfeler

f you’re a parent, you know what it’s like to try to separate your teen from social media; sometimes it seems that the cellphone has become another appendage, while connecting through sites like Facebook and text messaging can seem necessary for life itself.

Social events, for example, get planned through Facebook and what teen doesn’t text home to arrange for rides? YouTube is the go-to place for everything from entertaining videos to replaying scenes from games or school performances. But that digital world is not always a healthy one for kids—national and international news can sometimes be frightening, kids may witness bullying, and there’s the constant stress of who’s “friending” (or “unfriending”) you. Imagine harnessing that connectivity with an eye towards empowering those plugged-in kids while improving their social and emotional wellbeing. Welcome to the Austin Healthy Adolescent Initiative powered by the PlumbBrain project!

Physical, emotional, and mental health are tied together in young people, explains Nikki Trevino, program coordinator of the City of Austin’s Healthy Adolescent Initiative (AHAI). Trevino used to be the coordinator for Safe Routes, a group that encourages kids to walk and ride to school. “Why didn’t people walk to school? It comes down to fear of their neighborhood,” says Trevino. “It’s real empowerment for community people to do things to keep themselves and their children healthy.” Walking or riding together as a group to and from school took away the fear and also provided those families with an

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

additional 20 or so minutes of exercise and togetherness that had been missing.

It’s no surprise that Trevino found a passionate calling to put together AHAI. As program coordinator, she’s the bridge between the City of Austin, four nonprofit groups (Planned Parenthood, SafePlace, LifeWorks, and Youth Launch), and PlumbBrain, a new social media project developed

by OneSeventeen Media. The AHAI program vision is that kids are “active decision makers and fully engaged in improving their communities.” The mission is to empower adolescents (ages 13-19) and engage them as

W

partners with adults, leading to collaboration across the community as they advocate for positive changes in their lives. For some kids, that could mean escaping abuse or need; for others it could be as simple as finding an accepting group and feeling better about themselves.

A “perfect storm” of conditions led to this partnership between the nonprofit and public sectors. When the economy took a turn for the worse, several groups, all linked through a broader concept, collaborated to conserve resources and make the most effective use of funds. Trevino secured a grant from the Texas Department of State Health Services for a project with the City of Austin. Rather than launch a topic-driven initiative (for example: drug prevention or teen pregnancy), AHAI is, in Trevino’s words, “holistically” focused.

There are four nonprofits working under the AHAI umbrella, each one of the “biggest players” in the Austin service community. Each offers something slightly different: SafePlace focuses on victims of rape, sexual abuse, and domestic violence; LifeWorks helps homeless We asked youth achieve self-sufficiency with a goal to avoid depending on soourselves, ‘How cial services; Youth Launch empowers young people through service can we use programs involving at-risk teens; and Planned Parenthood provides health services for those who may not be able to afford such care technology to do elsewhere. The question became, how best to distribute all the inforsocial good?’ mation that these combined services provide for young people via a method that these kids could easily navigate on their own?

Amy Looper Trevino was at the Healthy Teen Network Conference last year in North Carolina when she heard the Spirit of Innovation Award presented to a company called OneSeventeen Media for a program called “The BrdsNBz,” a text messaging program for young people with questions and concerns about their sexual health. Passion met passion in OneSeventeen Media; Amy Looper and Beth Carls, co-founders, had turned their media savvy, business acumen, and “mom know-how” into social venture entrepreneurship, or what they call “philanthrocapitalism.” Looper said, “We asked ourselves, ‘How can we use technology to do social good?’” Carls, who was using Twitter before her kids were, realized that technology is the way to reach these “digital natives.” When you get the two business women and Trevino talking about their joint endeavor to empower youth, the excitement is electrifying. “Bringing together this passion is the power of (the AHAI) partnership,” said Looper. “Our position is every child is at risk because kids are kids. We can all probably cite a few things we haven’t shared with our parents,” she said.

PlumbBrain was born out of a project within the Houston school system. Looper and Carls spent four years with a test group of over 500,000 students trying out a social media-based tool. Kids who were headed to in-school suspension got an opportunity to get online and write about their problems. The information gleaned was a goldmine of data about life for these teens, and interaction with supervising adults improved. Looper described what she calls the “secret sauce.” “Meeting kids in (their) technology-based culture creates authenticity and breaks down a barrier.

[The kids] saw immediately that the school was trying to reach them by giving them something they felt comfortable with,” she said. The experience with collecting information and data from students brought them to create PlumbBrain in 2008, and when Trevino learned what PlumbBrain could do, she contacted OneSeventeen Media to enlist them in the AHAI. The AHAI’s mandate to empower young people and OneSeventeen Media’s desire to make the Internet a “place to grow, not just a place to go” blossomed into a partnership designed to help Austin-area teens.

PlumbBrain’s new social media site will be a safe domain for kids to search for information about a broad range of topics as well as reach out to peers and supportive adults. The participating nonprofits can guide kids towards the service, which is accessed anonymously. There students can access factual information, post socially, and make connections while being guided towards helpful social services.

Instead of, for example, hopping a bus and going across town to multiple agencies to

LIFESTYLE NEW SOCIAL NETWORKING SITE GIVES TEENS A PLACE TO GROW

31

fill out paperwork, these kids can take control, seek answers, and get help with their problems online through the various partnered nonprofits—a level of control that teens repeatedly stressed a desire for in feedback to Looper and Carls.

The thing that excites Trevino is the collection of real-time data.

Trevino says that Travis County data on teens lags by as much as three years (in the life of an adolescent, that’s time enough for some momentous changes). “We really struggle in the health field (with old data),” she explains. "and being able to know what kids need when they actually need it is a gift." Students make their

Sneak Peek

comments anonymously (their identities are protected and the law limits the types of questions that can be asked), but information can be mined from the responses.

For example, a poll could be placed on the site asking, “Is bullying an issue in your school?” and instantly, teens would respond with real-time answers that reflect what’s happening in their environment.

As of November, PlumbBrain is in focus group testing and headed toward a public launch at the beginning of 2012. The AHAI is in its third year of a five year grant, and Trevino is excited that this new partnership with the private sector, combined with the group focus of the four featured non-profits, will help the City achieve great things for Austin’s youth services. OneSeventeen Media is fully onboard. “It’s more a commitment than a contract,” said Carls. “We’ll go above and beyond and do whatever we can to make this successful.” Looper backs her up, “Leveraging the power of business principles to do social good is at the heart of what gets (us) up everyday.”

Trevino cuts to the heart of the matter: it’s about using technology to help young people take some control toward becoming healthier in all aspects of their lives. “Kids who are mentally and emotionally well are empowered to take positive risks such as going out for a sports team or completing a 5K,” she explains. “We can promote some of those things and let them celebrate the small victories of doing those kinds of simple, healthy behaviors.” afm

PlumbBrain’s Social Media Website

This screen grab, provided by OneSeventeen Media of the soonto-be-released PlumbBrain site, shows what a user's home feed and profile may look like.

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

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GIVING

At Home with John Paul and Eloise DeJoria: Giving money, time, and Harley r ides

by Melanie P. Moore photography by Randal Ford 36

AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

John

Paul and Eloise DeJoria have a lot of experience as philanthropists. He became a philanthropist as a small child, and she learned from her father how to give back even when traveling for business. They love to talk about the lives they are changing, but not so much about how much they give— though they give a lot. DeJoria is so understated about his giving that Fortune Magazine even named him among their list of “Lesser known billionaire givers.”

DeJoria signed on to Warren Buffet and Bill Gates’ Giving Pledge, a program described as “an effort to invite the wealthiest individuals and families in America to commit to giving the majority of their wealth to philanthropy.” In his Giving Pledge DeJoria tells the same story he told Austin Fit Magazine—that he became a philanthropist at six years old.

“We didn’t have very much money but we’d go to downtown Los Angeles to look at the Christmas decorations in the windows,” he said. One year [my mother] gave my brother and me a dime and said, ‘Now each of you hold half the dime and go over there and put it in that bucket.’ So we held out the dime, walked over and put it in the bucket. But we said, ‘Mom, that’s a dime. That’s two big CocaColas, three candy bars, why put it in that bucket with that man?’

She said ‘That’s the Salvation Army and remember this, sons, as you grow up: there is always someone that is in need more than you are. We try and give whatever we possibly can.’

“That stuck with me,” DeJoria said. “Philanthropy is not necessarily how much money you have to give away, it’s being involved and participating. In most all the charitable work we do, we physically participate.” A self-made billionaire, DeJoria said philanthropy became a way of life for him even during times when he had no money.

In his 20s, a period he refers to as his “biker years,” he would go to Griffith Park in Los Angeles at Thanksgiving and Christmas to volunteer serving food to homeless people and their families.

DeJoria’s beginnings are well-documented—a first-generation American raised in poverty in a European immigrant neighborhood in Los Angeles, he worked a variety of jobs, rising through the ranks at Redken and then starting his own company, Paul Mitchell, with his friend, the hairdresser Paul Mitchell. The story is that they started the company with only $700 dollars and that the packaging for Paul Mitchell products is black and white because they couldn’t afford colored ink.

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

He still owns and runs Paul Mitchell hair care products, salons, and schools.

He started and still runs Patrón tequila.

He has repeatedly asked Fortune Magazine not to name him in their list of the wealthiest people, but the most recent list ranks him at number 212, with a fortune of more than $4 billion.

He owns 10 houses, but he calls Austin home and that’s where he and his wife, Eloise, chose to raise their son, John Anthony. The DeJorias have a combined total of six children and 10 grandchildren.

Their teenager, John Anthony, is the child the couple had together and one of the reasons they live in Austin. “We chose Austin for family values,” DeJoria said. “It’s a better place to raise a kid,” he said. “We looked the whole world over.”

Eloise, a native Texan who had lived in Austin for seven years before moving to Los Angeles, agrees and was in favor of having Austin as a home base for additional reasons.

“I really wanted to be there for the special elder people in my life,” she said. “[People such as] Edith Royal, who is a very dear friend of mine from my young 20s, and my mom, who is an hour away.”

Eloise met DeJoria on a blind date 20 years ago. They still have a palpable chemistry between them, teasing each other and laughing with impish but genuine affection. This connection comes through in all facets of their conversation. While discussing health and fitness, Eloise pointed out that, although she works out every day, she learned over a decade ago that nutrition could have as profound an effect on appearance as exercise. DeJoria interjects, “Eloise doesn’t drink. You know, he jests, “I’m 67 years old, she’s 77 years old—can you believe this?” Similarly, before he could explain what constitutes his regular exercise regimen, Eloise said, “He chases me around.” Their unpretentious manner and genuine interest in others is evidenced by the friendship-style relationships they have with their staff and the unguarded demeanor they share with new people they’ve just met. They enthusiastically shared details of their personal diet and exercise experiences.

The DeJoria’s elegantly minimalist home on Lake Austin has a gym which, along with all the usual gym equipment, includes a heavy rope suspended from the ceiling. DeJoria, who started out in athletics as a gymnast, had the rope installed as part of his fitness regimen, which also includes military push-ups—in fact, he brought out his Navy SEALs push-up equipment—two round, flat objects, each with a handle. Holding one in each hand, he dem-

onstrated, doing a push-up and twisting the gardens with a goal to feed half of Appalachia—or help them feed handles each time. themselves—within five to seven years. He says that after two “These are very difficult,” he explained and then years they are on target to reach his goal of feeding 50 percent of offered them to others to try, but he had no takers. “I Appalachia—about 100,000 people. More, the gardens are producdo two sets of 25, twice a week and then I do five [dead- ing enough for the farmers to sell the excess at farmer’s markets. hang] pull-ups twice a week.” DeJoria, 67, has an impresPart of DeJoria’s philanthropic philosophy is that his personal sively lean, fit frame. participation in the project is important. Earlier this year, he flew Eloise, 54, has her own fitness regime, which consists of swim- his family to see the farms and meet the people involved with ming, running, stand-up paddle (SUP), and Bikram yoga, working Grow Appalachia. out every day. She describes herself as “outdoorsy” and uses many “I wanted Eloise and John Anthony to see it,” he said. “I may of Austin’s natural features; she has multiple stand-up paddle- be paying for all this and organizing it, but I want you to feel what boards. She also walks and runs on the trail at Lady Bird Lake. I’m doing here.”

She’s so serious about her workouts that she has even conducted Seeing the farms and meeting the people had a profound effect meetings during a workout. on Eloise. “It really changed me. I can’t even talk about it; [seeing] “[Recently] someone wanted to talk with me about charities and the tears in the eyes of these people we were helping and how good I said ‘Okay, but you’ve got to come swim with me,’” she said. “It it felt to them to give us products of their gardens. They had whole was a great visit; we swam for an hour and half.” families [there] and had a picnic for us. We all love supporting The couple was recently featured on a television special with ourselves and helping others; we just don’t always have the tools. If Barbara Walters, who highlighted the five-star chef they employ. I hadn’t gone, it would be completely different, just sending money Diet is very important to the DeJorias. versus actually going and being involved.”

“We’re shooting for eating raw a couple of times a week and vegInstilled in the ethos of each of his companies is his mantra that etarian a couple of times a week,” Eloise said. DeJoria concurred, “success unshared is failure.” adding that they try not to have meat more than twice a week.

“We eat a lot of vegetables,” he said. “It’s very important to have organic foods— and small portions. I find the secret is small portions.”

His adherence to a healthy diet for himself and his family has been infused into his philanthropy as well.

One project he’s most excited about is his Grow Appalachia initiative. One of his executives who grew up in that region pointed out to DeJoria how difficult it is for out-ofwork generations of coal miners to sustain their families, much less eat healthy food. “[When] you have food stamps, you buy what you can,” DeJoria said. “Sometimes when you have little money, the food you buy is not the best for you: “Everyone knows Patrón, they know Paul Mitchell, they know white flour, processed foods, 99-cent burgers. A lot of these people John Paul Pet, but these are different companies and part of their put on a lot of unnecessary weight.” culture is giving back,” he said. DeJoria’s enthusiasm betrays his A self-made man who never had a mentor—“it might have been pride in and passion for having his companies operate with an eye easier if I had,” he said—DeJoria takes a self-starter approach to to philanthropy. Animated, he leans forward to explain: “When we his philanthropic endeavors as well. He went to Appalachia, in- started the company, we started doing [charitable work] and we still terviewed people himself, and found Berea College in Kentucky to do it. So if these companies can have a culture of giving back, the partner with him. sharing of success, [other] companies can do the same thing; indi“I [took] this on personally,” he said. “I started [the] program, viduals could do this, as we pointed out earlier by just participating where I would buy the tractor, the hoes for little farms. I would pay in something. Even if it’s something as innocent as a smile, you’re for whatever equipment they needed and I would pay for people to philanthropic. You’re making someone else happier; you’re transhelp out, and Berea College would provide volunteers and engi- mitting smile happiness to someone.” neers and help put this into effect.”

His Paul Mitchell Schools, with 110 in the U.S. and several abroad, He started the project two years ago with $150,000 to test 100 include fundraising for local causes as part of the educational progardens. Those test gardens fed fresh, healthy vegetables to 2,700 cess. The school in Thailand had a fundraiser to send relief to Haiti people. In addition to cultivating crops, Grow Appalachia provides not too long ago. He remarked on the creativity of the students. training in preserving food by showing participants how to can “The most amazing was our school in Orlando, Florida,” DeJovegetables to last through the winter. With more gardens and the ria said. “They had a Topless Carwash. Before you say anything, tools and technology provided by the project to keep the food they picture going down the street and here are all these young, goodgrow, more people are eating (and eating better), and their health is looking kids out there with signs, ‘Topless Car Wash.’ Everyone improving, according to DeJoria. wanted to see what was going on. The minute you pull in, they hit The success of the pilot led DeJoria to quadruple the amount of your car with soap and water immediately. But they don’t do the top

"Success unshared is failure."

John Paul DeJoria

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

Times, Maxim, and taped the 20/20 interview with Barbara Walters.

In Austin, the DeJorias are involved with many groups, including Help Clifford Help Kids, Paramount Theater, The Long Center, Austin Children's Shelter, Austin Film Festival, and Ann's Wolfe Pack. In 2011 they set up their family foundation, JP’s Peace Love & Happiness Foundation. In addition to running DeJoria’s philanthropic work domestically and internationally, the Foundation is sponsoring what has become an annual hill country motorcycle ride primarily benefiting Austin’s Club 100. of your car. You say, ‘Wait!” But they say, ‘It’s a topless car wash, “We wanted to give John Paul a birthday party,” Eloise said. “He that’s $5 extra, but it all goes to a charity. That’s why we’re here.’ wanted to use his birthday to give back, so he and his friend Gary They raised $1,600 in three hours. Topless car wash. They come up Spellman created the Peace Love Happiness ride. It’s a really cool with some really creative things.” thing because he gets his friends like Peter Fonda and Robbie DeJoria was just back in Austin from New York where he had Knievel to come ride. Our governor [Rick Perry] rides with him. addressed the United Nations on the topic of sustainability. He said “It’s something that everybody can get involved with,” she said. it was the first time the U.N. had business people and philanthropic “If you don’t want to ride a motorcycle, you can always follow in volunteers all together. a car.”

“The core message was that it works. I gave them some examples, “[The ride] is the weekend closest to April 13,” DeJoria said. “We the biggest one I gave them was around the JPSelects.com web go out of the Harley dealership south of town; we go out in the site,” he said. Launched a few months ago, the site allows people country for a cruise and ride about 100 to 120 miles. Then we stop to purchase approved “sustainable” products, with a portion of the somewhere for a great lunch and hang out a little bit. [We have] proceeds donated to charity. “Every company [with products] on anywhere from 200 to 500 riders, depending on the weather.” the site has to be approved that it has sustainable practices, that they “There’s a VIP part, too,” Eloise said. “I’m going to try to get take care of their people, and they do something to make their city Cher to come in. Cher rides her own bike.” or the country a better place to live,” DeJoria said.

For information about the 2012 Peace Love Happiness ride, DeJoria’s efforts are not unnoticed. While in New York, he was scheduled for Friday, April 13, 2012, visit interviewed by NBC, FOX, FOX Business, Bloomburg, the New York www.peacelovehappiness.com. afm

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

RETIRED GENERAL GIVES HOMES TO HEROES

T

photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

im Horton, a champion softball player, and Jonathan Wheeler, a recent graduate of the Golf Academy of America, had just finished a round of golf together in San Antonio when they sat down to tell the story of how they each were given—yes, given—a home. These two have more in common than their athletic prowess; they served in the armed forces, came home wounded, and struggled mightily to attain independence. Along the way, they each received an impossibly generous helping hand from Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco, USA (Ret.) and the Military Warriors Support Foundation in San Antonio.

You take that uniform off after 42 years, but your heart is still there for the heroes.

Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco, USA (Ret.)

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

Gen. Sisco started his career with NCR Corporation and then, on his own, built companies that were financially rewarding to him— and he made lots of friends along the way. In addition to serving as the CEO for Texas Trophy Hunters until a few years ago, Gen. Sisco is currently a Board Member of the National Rifle Association. Having a civilian as well as a military career, he spent many weekends and summers serving in the National Guard and retired as a ThreeStar General.

“You take that uniform off after 42 years, but your heart is still there for the heroes,” he said. He wanted to help veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Specifically, he wanted to provide fun experiences for the veterans, and that grew into a vision for more. “We went to Peter Holt, of the San Antonio Spurs team, Gov. Rick Perry, to Clay (Walker, the country music star and a hunting buddy of Sisco’s), and Dr. Jim Linager, and we looked into forming a foundation.” The Military Warriors Support Foundation (MWSF)

was founded in 2007. In March of 2010, Candace] asks for receipts. It’s all about bethey added the Homes 4 Wounded Heroes ing accountable. In Florida, if I wanted golf program. “We started out with scholarships balls, I’d go buy golf balls. A lot of it is havand getting them jobs, and providing outside ing respect for your partner, and communicaactivities,” he said. The outside activities tion. It’s been great. We just got into a twoincluded hunting on two leased ranches and week, penny-by-penny budget. I found out I golfing on beautiful private courses. Part- spent $103 last month on fast food.” ners who work with the MWSF include Wal-Mart, Humana Military, Home Depot, Red Bull, Chase Bank, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and the PGA, among others. “We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no affiliation with the military or government,” Gen. Sisco said, though he acknowledged his rank has helped open some doors. “Being from the military, we know who to talk to,” he said.

“Our cost is about Johnathan Wheeler said the family and financial $20,000 to give a house mentoring are helping him away,” Gen. Sisco said.

“New paint, new carpet, new appliances Wheeler pointed out that the communicaand landscaping. When the heroes get these tion training is as meaningful for his family beautiful homes, they are like new. We as the financial training—learning to manverify that the home is in a good neighbor- age money and learning the skills to talk hood, and we confirm that the schools are about it without emotional distortion of the the quality we want for the hero and his conversation. His wife said the relationship family. They don’t receive (ownership of) with the mentors is vital. the home right away; we teach them how to “Even though we only talk to these mentors own a home first. For three years we pro- over the phone, you can tell they really care vide them with family and financial men- about you and they genuinely want to know toring. We make sure that they know the if you are having a problem,” she said. “They value of what they have. After completing get answers for you and they get back to you our three-year mentoring program we deed very quick. You already feel like they’re the home to the hero and his family, still 100 friends and family. It’s a special relationship.” percent mortgage free.”

Hearing the Wheelers tell the story of the Tammy LeValley is MWSF’s Family Tran- desperation they felt after he returned from sition Program Manager. “We have two men- the war, wounded and without any in-patoring programs that we require our families tient or physical therapy care (Wheeler said to go through during the first three years the National Guard retirees don’t get that they’re in the home,” she said. “The first benefit), is heart wrenching. Wheeler lost is the Family Mentoring program, which is his job because of the short-term memory their first form of communication when they loss resulting from his injuries. Without take occupancy of the home. They go to the a job and with debt piling up, he slumped Family Mentor with how to get repairs, any into a depression because he felt he could questions they have about home ownership. not take care of his wife and two children.

Families are provided a Financial Mentor to He attempted suicide thinking at least they help them create financial goals and keep would get the death benefit he had from the them on track.”

Guard. He survived the attempt and went on “The people we meet with have tools,” said to graduate very high in his class from the Wheeler, who moved into his home in July. golf academy in Orlando. But after a job fell “We are only one month into our mentoring; through back home in Arkansas, they wound the first month was only financial mentor- up living with his wife’s parents in a trailer. ing. Part of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder “Four adults, four dogs, and two kids,” she (PTSD) is the impulse buy, and learning how described. When his wife felt him fallto manage it. Before, I would go to the store ing into another depression, she found the for milk, to spend $5, but I’d spend $50. I MWSF on the web and made a call. Because now go to Wal-Mart and put things in the golf is one of the key outings, they found a cart, and as I walk around I realize I don’t place for Wheeler to volunteer giving clinics. need it, so I put it back. Now she [his wife, He also found out that Ken Eakes, the execuLIFESTYLE RETIRED GENERAL GIVES HOMES TO HEROES

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tive director of MWSF, was an avid golfer so they immediately became friends. After the move to San Antonio and the award of the home, he now has a job in operations at a local golf course.

The family is still amazed at their home.

“We call it our forever house,” Candace Wheeler said. “Every afternoon at 4 o’clock, I can count on that doorbell ringing and kids from the neighborhood asking if our kids can come out and play. It’s just wonderful.” The Wheelers hosted her parents for Thanksgiving this year.

Both Horton and John Hyland, another hero who was recently awarded a home, lost a leg in combat. They, like every hero who has been awarded a home, were shocked to hear the announcement. Hyland had been told he was to receive a new volunteer award and to bring his two young sons; he is a single parent. “My son thought I was going to get some sort of Army medal,” he said. “I don’t remember much of it, but I was crying. It really is an incredible gift…no one just gives you a home.” Hyland also spoke about the value of the outings the Foundation provides.

“A lot of us learn golf for physical rehabilitation, but to go out to some of the best golf courses where most of us are not able to afford or live near, it’s amazing. When you’re wounded that way, you’re ripped out of your Army family, but to be able to get out and hang out with them, we learn a lot about the VA system and the retirement system from each other.”

Horton, whose parents were both Marines, grew up after their service as the son of a minister and a teacher. He also wanted to serve and six months after his deployment to Iraq in September 2004, he was injured by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). “[The explosion] resulted in the loss of my

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

left leg, they had to reconstruct my left eye lid, I had broken ribs, broken elbow, I was pretty torn up.” His eyelid was reconstructed from skin taken from the roof of his mouth, which made it difficult to eat. He dropped from 150 pounds to 110. “I stopped counting after a while, but it was over 50 surgeries.”

Today, Horton has a home and two weeks after his home was awarded, he got a job with the Wounded Warriors Project. “Everything worked out for me,” he said. “This is unbelievable to have a house and a paid-off truck.” He plays on the Wounded Warriors’ champion softball team, which was recently featured on ESPN. He is very fit, but has set more goals for himself. “Most of my therapy has been lifting weights and I try to run. One of my goals is to run a marathon. I’ve run a 5K and am working for a 10K.” Gen. Sisco tells other stories of surprising wounded veterans with homes, and the joy it gives everyone involved. “You don’t like making people cry in your life, but I can honestly say it’s a pleasure here. It’s tears of joy.”

The Foundation’s goal is to give away 1,000 homes over the next four years. The application process is as simple as completing the form on the web. Then a team of 12 reviews the applications, including interviews and significant research, to select finalists and identify the recipients. If an applicant does not get a home on the first try, subsequent applications are accepted.

The Home Recipients are not always the most wounded or have the most impressive story. The Foundation staff takes great care in finding the best “fit” for each home. For information you can visit their webpage at www.MilitaryWarriors.org. The MWSF encourages you to be a “hero to a hero.”

Encourage any combat wounded hero you know to apply. afm

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PHOTO BY LAUREN LESLEY

I

n May 2010, I had surgery to repair an injury; thankfully, I was allowed to swim after a few weeks. While in physical therapy, I learned of a four-mile open water swim in Lake Austin benefiting the local charity Colin's Hope. The Holst family in Austin started Colin's Hope (www.colinshope.org) in 2008 after their four-year-old son drowned. Their mission is to raise water safety awareness and prevent childhood drowning. Drowning is the number one cause of accidental death for children under four and the number two cause for children ages 1-14. Under the guidance of volunteer Alissa Magrum (now Executive Director), that Inaugural Got2Swim 4 Colin's Hope raised almost $20,000.

All involved vowed to make the event bigger and better.

This September, 43 swimmers hopped in Lake Austin, some to swim four miles, others eight miles, to commemorate what would've been Colin's eighth birthday, raising nearly $60,000. To prepare for the event, swimmers and water guardians received basic training plans, nutritional guidance, and invitations to group swims each weekend. They also completed CPR and Water Safety Certification courses at The Expedition School. While this event will be kept small for safety reasons, future Got2Swim 4 Colin’s Hope events may expand to include destination swims and larger-scale open water swim events.

Colin's Hope isn't just about swimming; it’s about promoting water safety.

The organization shares simple water safety tips in a variety of ways: through school and community events, through the Colin’s Hope kids’ triathlon, on the Colin’s Hope website, and a variety of media campaigns. For information on Colin's Hope and to learn how you can help prevent drowning, go to www.colinshope.org.

When Your Mind Matters to Your Fitness

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MS-150

PHOTO BY DEREK KEY

F

ew charity events match the magnitude and dedication of the annual BP MS 150 bike ride from Houston to Austin. More than 15,000 cyclists ride and camp together with the mission of eradicating multiple sclerosis. The two-day, 180-mile ride is the largest of its kind in North America and, in 2011, raised more than $16 million. I've had the joy and honor of training for and participating in this event on several occasions, representing friends who suffer from the debilitating effects of this disease.

Before you embark on this journey, it’s important to know your reason for riding. A personal connection to your cause, such as a family member or loved one with the disease, will go far towards inspiring you during the long training weekends. Also, join a team (or create your own) for support.

Visit your local bike shop to find out about clinics or group training rides, and have a professional look at your bike fit. You definitely want to be as comfortable as possible for this two-day journey on two wheels. Training should start at the beginning of the year and long ride distances will increase throughout the spring. Plan on doing at least one ride of 80-90 miles prior to the event date, April 21-22, 2012.

Not only does the MS 150 raise millions of dollars, it also encourages health, fitness, community, advocacy, and camaraderie—the true gift of philanthropy. To learn more about recommended rides, bicycle safety clinics, and to see a list of existing teams, go to the official website at www.ms150. org for more information. afm Carrie Barrett is a USAT Level 1 Certified Coach and freelance writer based in Austin, Texas. Her articles have appeared on Livestrong.com, lavamagazine.com, Inside Texas Running, and the recent triathlon anthology, “The Meaning of Tri.” Barrett is a member of Erin Baker’s National Triathlon Team and co-host of "The Health and Fitness Hour" Radio Program at www.kdrplive.org.

NEWSBRIEFS CONNECTING WITH A CAUSE

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Series: 2 of 3

WHAT THE WORLD SEES IN A FOOD LABEL

by Leah Fisher Nyfeler

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the second in a three-part series on healthy food choices. Our goal is to help decipher some of the marketing language and tricks used to promote a food as “healthy” as well as demystify both new and established tenets of healthy eating. Paired with each article in the series is a healthy revision of a well-known (and not-sohealthy) dish—a Recipe Redux.

W

e may take for granted that the rest of the world looks at everyday things the way Americans do but, as any traveler knows, that’s not necessarily the case.

What says more about everyday life than a trip to the grocery store? Products you see on the shelves and the information on packages are both influenced by the country where the product is marketed. That trip to the grocery store can reveal surprising differences due to wide variances in cultures and in political and market conditions from one country to another.

The European Union (EU), comprised of 27 member countries, has hotly debated what they’ve termed “traffic light” food labeling.

In this system, packaged foods would receive a graphic labeling similar to the universal traffic light (red, yellow, green) rating foods in four categories (fats, saturated fats, sugar, and salt). Green signified “low,” so 3-4 green segments on a package meant that was a healthier choice. Yellow (or amber) denoted medium, so a food with mostly yellow segments is okay to eat most of the time. Red, however, showed “high” levels; foods with mostly red segments are foods to eat sparingly.

The United Kingdom (U.K.) has used this system for several years. The concept is supported by an Australian study. This group of researchers from the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention at Deakins University found

that front-of-the-pack traffic light labeling resulted in reduced mean weight among group study participants and was both effective and cost saving. The study stated that using the graphics to label food was “… likely to offer excellent ‘value for money’ as an obesity prevention measure.’” The system seemed especially effective with lower socio-economic groups. Poor people in the U.K. are six times more likely to die early from cardio-vascular diseases than are more affluent people; smoking, lack of exercise, and diet are the three primary contributing factors. European shoppers don’t typically look at nutritional labels (only 17 percent actually read them, and when quizzed, 84 percent of French consumers couldn’t explain what a carbohydrate was). The Australian study found that people are five times more likely to identify healthy food options with color-coded labels.

The pushback to applying this concept in the EU was intense. Interestingly, the United States came up in the discussion.

WHO 2006 figures show U.S. obesity rates at 32 perccent, while in Italy rates are at 10 percent, and at 24 percent and rising in the U.K. European politicians pointed at the U.S. as a bad example and Renate Sommer, parliamentarian from German’s Christian Democratic Union party, piled on, “the more you label, the less people read. The U.S. has more and more food labeling, but obesity rates keep rising. We should learn from their mistakes.” This fear of information overload and confusion from yet another labeling change led the EU’s traffic-light vote to failure. The EU opted to stay with a mandatory “nutrition declaration,” a label with several nutrients listed (calories, fat, saturated fat, carbohydrates, protein, sugars, and salt) in amounts of 100 grams or 100 milliliters; the NUTRITION READING FOOD LABELS

51

Traffic light labelling provides details for consumers in the U.K.

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per-portion amount and percentages are voluntary supplied by the manufacturer but are not mandatory. The EU backed a proposal from the environmental committee for mandatory labeling to show the origin of meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products, (it was already mandatory to show where beef, honey, olive oil, and fresh fruits and vegetables came from). Also, the EU-backed mandatory labels for appetite-enhancing substances (which includes trans-fats), and information on sweeteners must be included on the front of packages.

As reflected in the European stance towards American labels, attitudes towards food vary by culture. Much of national identity is tied up into foods we eat, how we cook them, and the role food plays in life. Most major holidays have foods associated with celebrating those special days.

While every group treasures its food traditions, different cultures approach food in different ways. According to studies, consumers in North Africa, the EU, and Asia are all conscious of the link between food and health, though how exactly that is expressed varies. In the U.S., more than half of consumers say that diet is an important part of health. In Canada, most consumers agree that good health is their primary reasoning behind food selections. In Asia, Canada, and the U.S., price and convenience are also very important factors, and more food is eaten outside the home in these areas than in other parts of the world.

While most countries have some sort of packaged food labeling, the labels themselves vary as much as the consumers’ use of the information. The U.S. has some of

52

AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

Virtually all American consumers have unkowningly been exposed to GMOs in their diet

the most comprehensive information, though shoppers don’t often use it effectively. A whopping 89 percent of Americans incorrectly estimate their daily caloric needs—in fact, 31 percent can’t even guess at what the number should be. In Asia, a popular misconception is that local or traditional foods are always lower in calories than “Western” and “out-of-home” foods. The most influential items on a label for Asian shoppers are claims regarding nutritional analysis (“Studies show that…”) and third-party endorsements (“Dr. So-and-So recommends….).

The different cultural approaches to food were brought into clear focus by the book “Hungry Planet: What the World Eats.” Photographers Peter Menzel and Faith D’Aluisio travelled around the world and photographed what 30 families in 24 different countries ate in a week. The photos show each family surrounded by all of the actual items purchased for that week. Packaged food is more prominent in the industrialized countries’ diets and eventually becomes the main staple. The poorer the nation, the more natural the food is (and the smaller the amount of it).

A current global “hot topic” concerning food and food labeling is genetically-modified organisms (GMO). In an effort to address the food crisis in East Africa, several countries have begun to consider GMOs as a method for producing more food. The U.S. led with 68 percent of the market in 2000, with Argentina next at 23 percent, Canada (7 percent) and China (1 percent) following. In fact, the U.S. and Argentina alone devoted 99 million acres to GMO crops—that’s an area bigger than the land mass of the U.K. Not every country sees GMOs as the solution, or even a positive development. Japan now has mandatory health testing for GMOs; Europe has mandatory labeling and established a 1 percent threshold for GMO contamination.

Because the primary GMOs have been soybeans and corn, it’s very easy for items with GMOs to be combined with other ingredients without the consumer’s knowledge. Because soy-based additives are so prevalent in

U.S. packaged food, virtually all American consumers have unknowingly been exposed to GMOs in their diet.

India took a hard stance when the first GMO for cultivation, the Bt-brinjal, came up for approval. “Brinjal” is the Indian word for eggplant; it is native to India and a favorite ingredient in traditional cuisine. One variety even has important religious significance.

While GMO soya and corn have been used widely as commercial cattle feed in the U.S., Bt-brinjal would have been the first seed to be cultivated directly for human consumption. The rational was that India, with its large population, could benefit from a crop that had been altered to be more disease resistant and prolific. However, the people protested due to questions about safety . The Indian Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) allowed commercial release of Bt-brinjal, but the protests in 2009 resulted in public discussions and election. No testing had been done to determine if consumption of this GMO was hazardous to human health. No system for labeling GMO food existed in India, leaving consumers without

a way to determine what exactly they were eating. In 2010, India announced a ban on cultivating Bt-brinjal (Brazil also has banned GMO crops). Prime Minister Bhargava explained the decision: “To begin with, we do not need GM crops to feed India’s one billion plus people. We can feed two billion or more people simply by raising food productivity, which is comparatively low in the country.”

American-based Monsanto, the company that owns the patent for Bt-brinjal as well as a majority share of the Indian company, Mahyco, which markets the Bt-brinjal seeds, selected the beloved local plant in an effort to ease the introduction of the GMO crop into a large market. But the Indian people loved the food they grew up with, and few welcomed changes to a food that makes up such a large and significant portion of their life and culture. Arguably all people, regardless of nationality, prefer the freedom to make conscious choices about the foods and food products they put on their tables for their families, their friends, their celebrations. afm

Recipe Redux: Baked (and flash-fried) Potato Latkes

by Deborah Bat Schmuel

EDITOR’S NOTE: This month our Recipe Redux takes a culturally significant food for the holidays—the Potato Latke of Hanukah fame—and makes it a little more healthy.

Tradition holds that a small amount of oil lasted eight days and in an attempt to retain the significance of that we are still using oil. In this recipe, the frying and oil are minimized and an apple has been added for a tasty, healthier alternative.

“Best place to cure what ails you”

INGREDIENTS 3 large russet potatoes, skin on, grated 1 medium yellow onion, finely grated and drained well 2 apples, skin on, grated 2 eggs ¾ cup fine matzo meal (or flour) Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons canola oil

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DIRECTIONS Drain the potatoes well before using; it helps to wrap them in cheesecloth and squeeze. Then mix all ingredients (except the oil) together.

Put two tablespoons of oil in skillet and heat. Shape approximately two tablespoons of the potato mixture into a ball, place in the hot oil, and press down with a spatula. Fry 1 minute on each side. Place the latkes in a baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 10 minutes at 425 degrees.

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Serve with applesauce, greek yogurt, or any other condiment that sounds yummy to you. afm

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ARTICHOKE HUMMUS

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Try using this hummus in place of mayonnaise or mustard on your sandwich or simply serve as a healthy appetizer with fresh vegetables and pita bread.

Price per serving: $1.01 // Restaurant Price: $1.99

NUTRITION Calories 151 Protein 6 g Carbs 19 g

SERVING SIZE: 1/4 CUP

Fat 8 g Sodium 249 mg Fiber 8 g

MAKES APPROX. 3 CUPS

WHAT YOU NEED 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 15-ounce cans of artichokes packed in water, drained and rinsed 1/4 cup tahini paste 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of two lemons 3-4 cloves garlic, depending on taste 1/2 teaspoon salt

Did you know?

Women 50 years and younger need 25 grams of fiber per day and men 38 grams. Women ages 51 and older need 21 grams and men 30 grams. If you are increasing your fiber intake, do so gradually, and make sure to drink plenty of water.

HOW YOU MAKE IT In the bowl of a food processor, add chickpeas, artichokes, tahini paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and salt. Blend until smooth.

This recipe is brought to you by Whole Foods Market.

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

56

AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

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“I always tell people, you are what you eat, so I always str ive for whole, balanced meals without preservatives or chemicals, and My Fit Foods is r ight on the same page so I love them.” -Paige Jewell Paige’s favor ite meal: Lean Lemon Turkey

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Lifestyle #apparel

New

WINTER APPAREL photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

Layers that work for cold weather workouts apparel provided by bettysport and Luke's Locker

58

AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

Pearl Izumi – PRO Prima Jacket $150.00 offers lightweight wind protection and warmth in a sleek package.

Salomon – Swift MidHoody $110.00 has a soft, breathable mid layer to keep you warm for training in cold weather.

LOLE – Inspiring Skirt $50.00 slides easily over swimsuit, shorts or leggings and provides versatility; cinch up the side for a shorter, sassier look.

North Face – Flight Series Impulse Pant $60.00 with body-mapping technology to help regulate body temperature for endurance workouts.

Rese Activewear – Natalie Legging $66.00 is perfect for exercise or casual wear as a layering piece due to performance fabric.

Nike – Lunar Glide +3 Shoe $100.00 has been improved with enhanced fit, support and breathability and is perfect for daily distance runs.

Brooks – Cascadia 6 Trail Shoe $109.95 provides the perfect balance for any terrain with a lower heel and an additional pivot post for improved suspension.

A ballistic rock shield protects against stubbed toes while the tread is ideal for ultimate traction.

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59

Lifestyle #apparel

Saucony – DryLete Ponytail Headband $15.00 features a slit at the back for your ponytail and a reflective logo so you can keep your ears warm and look girlie at the same time.

Oiselle – Green Lake Hoodie $86.00 finds just the right balance between performance and pleasure.

Pull it on and enjoy the smooth exterior and super soft fleecy interior.

Trust us; this is one of those pieces you buy and live in all season, from running your warm-up to running errands and everything in between.

Adidas by Stella McCartney – Yoga Performance Tank $85.00 combines the comfort and hand-feel of ClimaLite Cotton with thefunctionality of Tencel microfiber, moving sweat away from your skin. As a plus, wear this tank long or tie up the back to shorten the length.

Adidas by Stella McCartney – Run Snakeskin Print Shorts $85.00 sport a subtle print & ruffled trim that are pure Stella. Styled from a lightweight polyester that blocks wind to help you stay warm on chilly runs with an inner key pocket and hidden back zip pocket.

Tonic – Leg Warmers $35.00 are made from Merino wool, which is not only soft and lightweight but also regulates body temperature, wicks moisture, reduces odor and is even machine washable.

60

AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

Asics – Gel Nimbus 13 $130.00 attracts new and veteran runners alike.

Asic's premier neutral cushioned shoe features super light, super durable AHAR outsole material (dropping the weight ¾ of an ounce from last year’s model).

Plus, the full length Guidance Line gives the shoe a smooth transition through the gait cycle, and promotes a more efficient toe-off position.

Nike – Wool Crew Shirt $75.00 keeps you dry and warm during intense aerobic activity. Perfect fit and won’t shrink!

Salomon – XT Softshell Jacket $120.00 provides the perfect outer shell during a long run or ride, ideal for wind protection and breathability.

Zoot – Runfit Pant $80.00 offers wind and water protection in a light, stretch-woven fabric—complete with hand warmer pockets for additional comfort.

LIFESTYLE WINTER APPAREL

61

2011 Austin Fit Magazine Distance Challenge #AFMDC

@austinfit

AFMDC Leaderboard

Here’s who’s leading the pack after the Run for the Water 10 Miler

WOMEN’S AGE GROUP LEADERS

AFM DISTANCE CHALLENGE OVERALL LEADERS

MEN’S AGE GROUP LEADERS

Age Group

Name

Time

Age Group

Name

Time

15-19

Courtney Reich

1:58:01

15-19

Rush Hemphill

1:40:35

Name

20-24

Erica Stoltenberg

1:59:49

20-24

Kyle Higdon

1:29:34

25-29

Nicole Mendlik

2:11:44

25-29

Daniel Thompson

1:34:07

Joseph McCellon 1:25:22

30-34

Ashley Butler

1:59:55

30-34

Joseph McCellon

1:25:22

35-39

Lisa Buckley

1:55:24

35-39

Scott Merritt

1:35:21

40-44

Jennifer Fisher

1:45:09

40-44

Michael André Ford

1:42:15

45-49

Rose Martinez

1:57:03

45-49

Marvin Hope

1:43:53

50-54

Cynthia Burton

2:20:23

50-54

Declan O'Cleirigh

1:43:28

55-59

Barbara Fellman

2:14:50

55-59

Dan Wood

1:50:16

60-64

Reenie Smith

2:35:27

60-64

Frederick Taylor

2:27:31

65-69

Judith Reader

2:54:54

65-69

Dick Wilkowski

2:12:12

70-74

Margene Beckham

3:34:33

70-74

Michael London

2:19:27

75-79

Keith Mason

3:06:35

62

AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

Jennifer Fisher

Total Race Time

1:45:09

*Due to publication deadlines, ARC Decker Challenge results will be reflected in the January issue of AFMDC Leaderboard

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ecember brings, literally, an Austin Fit Magazine “Distance Challenge” (AFMDC) –the first half marathon of the series.

A half marathon (13.1 miles) is a new undertaking in terms of distance; runners have progressed from 10K (6.2 miles) at the IBM Uptown Classic to 10-miles at the Run for the Water. On December 11, runners will cover the half marathon distance at an Austin running community classic, the Decker Challenge.

The Austin Runners Club Decker Challenge will continue the precedent set by Run for the Water: hills. The Austin Runners Club (ARC) has put on this event for years and completing Decker is a feather in any serious runner’s cap. There are uphills and downhills—and lots of them. The area around the Travis County Expo Center and Decker Lake is the site of many different races throughout the year (Danskin Sprint Triathlon and Ironman Austin 70.3, to name two others), all races that seek to test the mettle of competitors on a challenging course. But don’t look for crowd support at the Decker Half Marathon to pick up your spirits. It’s difficult to get out on the roads to watch, so cheering crowds are a rare occurrence at this race. The isolation combined with the physical toughness of the course brings a mental challenge to the event that you don’t find in the other half marathons of the AFMDC (3M and, if you’re on the half track, the half marathon option at the Austin Marathon).

ARC offers the race as a way to give back to the running community here in Austin; the club’s membership organizes and staffs the race as a labor of love (ARC also compiles all the AFMDC leader results). Be sure to thank the volunteers out there working the water stops and keep in mind that the club stocks the aid stations and finish area tables of refreshments using donated goods.

With another half marathon a month and half later (3M is January 29, 2012), runners will be wise to think of Decker as a long training run. Expect that 3M will be the faster race, with its net downhill and rolling terrain. Decker, with its challenging hills and earlier spot in the schedule, will be a great event to nail down nutrition and practice mental toughness…and a great opportunity for bragging rights around the office water cooler on Monday. afm

AFM DISTANCE CHALLENGE RACE RESULTS

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Fit (x3) #Fit3

RUN + BIKE + SWIM

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Recover Right,

Come Back Faster

by Patrick Evoe, professional triathlete

T

here are two equally important aspects of training: overload and recovery. As athletes, we all seem to be really good at the overload; we love the work, sweat, and sense of accomplishment from hard workout sessions. Most athletes, however, struggle and fall short (myself included) with recovery. But it’s during recovery that our bodies absorb and adapt to the hard work of training—that’s where we get faster and stronger. I have to constantly remind myself that I never get stronger during the workout. Fortunately, I’ve learned from my mistakes, so I’d like to share some tips and perspectives on this surprisingly broad and complex topic.

Think in cycles One of the biggest fallacies in training is that you have to think about your workout schedule based on a seven-day calendar week. Most training programs subscribe to this thinking, as do almost all of us due to work and family schedules. After all, it’s the simplest and most convenient way to manage your training. But there is one major problem with this approach: it’s easy to simply squeeze too much into one week. Too many quality sessions (track, hills, tempo and endurance sessions) get slotted into those seven days, and that short planning block leaves very little time for rest and recovery sessions.

Instead, think of your schedule in terms of a training cycle, which can be 8, 9, 10, or 14 days in length. It may be hard to find the flexibility in your schedule to accommodate this, but changing your routine can be a good thing; your body may respond better if you lengthen out your training “week.” This will enable you to thoughtfully schedule in more easy workouts and active recovery days between your overload sessions. You can even incorporate recovery blocks into your training cycle. Recovery blocks can be anywhere from 3-7 days that are focused on rest and recovery. During these segments in your training, work on drills and technique and shorten your sessions. The intensity of these sessions should be much lower than your training workouts; so much lower, in fact, that you feel refreshed at the end of the activity. You may come back even more refreshed and faster after having made these adaptions to training.

FIT(X3) RECOVER RIGHT, COME BACK FASTER

65

! ion ite at Wh c Lo n w Be Ne o @ C So

Fit (x3) #Fit3

SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE

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Icing my legs in hotel right after 2nd place finish at Ironman Louisville this year. Yes, that's a beer in my hand; not the best for recovery, but it was time to celebrate.

Plan your recovery

Personal & Professional Training

Freddie Espiricueta

(512) 577-4771

When you’re incorporating recovery into your schedule, think about the type of rest used. Passive recovery is what may come to your mind first: lying down, staying off your feet, napping, elevating your legs, or stealing an extra hour of sleep. A coach once told me that, outside of my training sessions, I should be the laziest person I know.

What he meant was that I couldn’t stress this resting component of my recovery enough. Active recovery is exactly as it sounds; you’re remaining physically active while resting as the easier efforts promote your body’s ability to heal. In a proper recovery workout, you should feel better when you finish than when you started because the goal is to loosen your muscles, increase circulation, and flush out your system without putting any additional stress on your body.

When you plan your training, think through the logistics of your recovery sessions. For example, it’s important to get some post-workout nutrition, so ask yourself a few questions to develop your plan: Will I be able to eat right away? How quickly will I get those calories into my system? Where will I get my recovery food? Are there adequate fluids available for me to rehydrate? Also, work through the logistics of your recovery activities: Will I have time for an ice bath, nap, or time off my feet? Are social obligations going to occur after workouts? Thinking through these details will help you successfully execute your recovery plans.

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

Build in flexibility Though you’ve made a training plan, there will inevitably be a time where your body doesn’t recover the way you or your coach expected. This is where the old training cliché, “Listen to your body,” comes into play, though it can be difficult to differentiate between lack of motivation, fatigue, and sheer laziness. While symptoms may be similar, appropriate responses vary: fatigue requires rest, lack of motivation can be remedied with different mental approaches, and laziness is best countered by a kick in the pants. While modifying your plan may seem challenging or stressful, it’s easy to dig yourself into a hole by failing to respond to fatigue. You always need to monitor your body, communicate with your coach, and be prepared to adjust your plan accordingly because, if you can work in that needed recovery, you’ll come back fresher for the remaining key sessions.

PRIMO Performance & Rehabilitation

Jessica specializes in the treatment & prevention of injuries with the combination of the use of Physical Therapy, Active Release Techniques® (A.R.T) and The Kinesio Taping Method®. She has an “athlete” frame-of-reference as she has raced competitively for 12 years.

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[ Jessica Tranchina ] D.P.T, A.R.T Certified Provider NASM-CPT, CKTP

Playing with my niece Katherine in northern Michigan (also pictured, my parents' dog Sydney).

Monitor your mind Most of what you read on recovery will almost always lean towards the physical aspect. The mental side of recovery, however, is just as important to your overall performance. If you take care with monitoring your mental state and adjust your training accordingly, you’ll stay more motivated throughout the year. Take little mental breaks.

The objective is to turn your brain off from thinking about or focusing on your key race or event. Step away from reading forums, blogs, Twitter, and media associated with your sport for a bit. Larger scale mental breaks, such as vacations or impromptu days off from training to do something fun or different, can be very liberating. I’ve personally found that taking blocks of free time throughout the year at appropriate points keeps my mind fresh, and so I set aside time as needed for unstructured training—no plan, no schedule; I go out and do what I feel like doing that day. If I want to run easy, I run easy; if I want to stop on my bike for a coffee and pastry, I do. Introduce fun back into the schedule rather than focusing on a plan. Pull the plug on any measuring instrument (watch, heart-rate monitor, GPS, watt meter, you name it). If you keep your mind in its best state, you’ll stay fresher and be able to push harder and focus better when it’s time to get serious.

We are located in Texas Running Company 1011 W 5th St Ste #110 • Austin TX 78703

512.228.1411 • www.primorehab.com

Sitting at a café refueling with sugar on a 7-hour bike ride in the town of Hirschhorn, Germany.

Yoga, Pilates, Nia, Zumba, Massage, Meditation

Take time off It’s important to occasionally have some time completely off. You need to let your body and mind fully recover from the stress; a couple of weeks off at the end of your racing season can physically and mentally recharge you for the coming year. You may start to feel a little antsy and want to get back to your training group, but coming back too soon can cause you up to fizzle out later. Vacations, again, are the perfect time to plan your time off; don’t feel guilty if you come back feeling out of shape or like you’ve put on weight. Those things are quickly reversed once you start training again.

And you’ll find yourself a better athlete for properly managing your recovery throughout the year. afm FIT (X3) RECOVER RIGHT, COME BACK FASTER

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Events Around Austin #AFMevents

Rags to Wags 2011 Benefiting Austin Humane Society December 10th . Hilton Austin Sponsor today at ragstowags.org!

BALLET AUSTIN’S “THE NUTCRACKER” // PHOTO BY TONY SPIELBERG

HEALTH December 31

Tails Wagging We keep your pets’ tails wagging!

Specializing in exercising high energy dogs, we offer dog walks, potty breaks, playtime exercise and even bike rides!

Sniff us out today!

512.832.1320

www.tails-wagging.com

ATX100 ATX100 is a specially designed club to help those who want to lose 100 pounds or more.

RunTex has teamed with My Fit Foods to provide a comprehensive program built for success in lifestyle change. The club will meet on Monday mornings, Tuesday and Thursday evenings and on Saturday mornings at the RunTex located at 422 W. Riverside Drive in Austin. This is NOT a program that just throws you into exercise and diet; it is a comprehensive program that begins with providing the correct gear, the correct mindset, correct information and support. During ATX100 Saturday meetings there will be guest speakers ranging from nutritionists and trainers to psychologists. 8 a.m. • RunTex, 422 W. Riverside Dr., 78704

NUTRITION December 4-5

Nourishing Foods Nutrition and Cooking Workshop Learn how to make delicious dishes out of nourishing, local, seasonal, organic, fresh, nutrient dense ingredients. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. • Yoga Vela, 900 Darden Hills Road Driftwood, TX • thebarefootcook.com/events/ december-nourishing-foods-nutrition-andcooking-workshop-in-austin-tx

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

December 3-10

Edible Austin Magazine’s Eat Local Week Celebrate fresh, local food at a variety of events encompassing 60 of Austin’s restaurants. This event raises funds for two local nonprofit groups: Urban Roots and the Sustainable Food Center. Events include Local Brew Fest and Better Bites Holiday Gift Affair. See the website for information on passes, events, and schedules • edibleaustin.com/content/ about-eat-local-week

FITNESS December 2

4th Annual Lights of Love 5K and Kids K Get in the spirit this holiday season at the 4th Annual Lights of Love 5K and Kids K benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Austin and Central Texas (RMHC Austin), taking place Friday evening. 5 p.m.-9 p.m. • Mueller Browning Hangar • rmhc-austin.kintera.org/faf/home/ default.asp?ievent=491203 December 3

Urban Family Bicycle Tour Discover some of Austin’s best foodproducing treasures on the Bicycle Sport Shop Urban Farm Bicycle Tour Saturday, December 3. This fourth-annual family friendly bicycle tour includes optional stops

AustinFitMagazine.com/events

featured event

{

December 3-23

The Nutcracker Join Ballet Austin for the season presentation of "The Nutcracker." Watch Clara battle the Mouse King to save her beloved Nutcracker in this holiday classic with a cast of over 200 dancers and surprise cameo appearances in the role of Mother Ginger. Musical accompaniment is performed by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. 2:00 p.m. matinee showings on December 4, 11, 17, 18, and 23; 7:30 p.m. evening performances on December 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 21, and 22. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX balletaustin.org/atb/nutcracker2011.php

at more than 20 urban farms, and school and community gardens. 3 various start times and locations (check website for information) • urbanfarmbicycletour.com

LIFESTYLE December 10-11

Cherrywood Art Festival Cherrywood Art Fair began in 2002 as a tiny neighborhood event designed to bring shoppers looking for quality original art together with artists who needed a venue to reach their audience. Now in our 10th year, we’ve grown into one of Austin’s most popular and well-regarded art shows, a standout holiday event. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Maplewood Elementary School cherrywoodartfair.org Luminations The Wildflower Center garden will be lighted with thousands of luminarias. Bring your family for musicians, crafts, food and fun. 6 – 9 p.m. • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave. Austin, TX 78739 • wildflower.org/events

KEEP AUSTIN GREEN December 2-5

Annual Wild Ideas Holiday Shopping Tired of holiday crowds? Kick off your holiday shopping with a more relaxed and rewarding shopping experience at the Wildflower Center with easy parking, great discounts, an on-site café and feature gifts from local artists and artisans. December 2-5, Friday & Saturday 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m. • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave. • Austin, TX 78739 wildflower.org/events

Get the word out!

Submit your event for listing in the Austin Fit Magazine calendar.

Enter details at austinfitmagazine.com/events

December 14-24

Armadillo Christmas Bazaar A seasonal celebration of Austin’s distinctive cultural identity, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar is a haven for people seeking a different kind of holiday shopping experience. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. • Palmer Events Center • armadillobazaar.com EVENTS AROUND AUSTIN

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ARC DECKER CHALLENGE

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6v6 and 3v3 leagues for all ages Basketball leagues forming now

Soccer Cubs program for 18 months and up Soccer Academy program for ages 5 - 8 Great for birthday parties

DECEMBER

December 2 Salado Loop ride

Pace • Salado, TX austincycling.org/rides/hostedRides

JAKE NORTH PHOTOGRAPHY

December 10 El Sendero Endurance Trail Race

Reveille Peak Ranch, Burnet • roguerunning.com Jingle Bell 5K for St. Judes

Gruene Hall • New Braunfels, TX athleteguild.com/node/233

4th Annual Lights of Love K and Kids K

Schlotzsky’s 7th Annual Jingle Bun Fun Run

Mueller Browning Hanger, Austin, TX lightsoflove5k.org

Scott and White West Campus, 5701 Airport Road, Temple • templeparks.net

Jingle Bell 5K benefitting MADD

December 11 Brown Santa 5K and Kids K

11410 Century Oaks Terrace jinglebellrunformadd.org

Travis County Exposition Center • brownsanta.org

December 3 Spicewood Vineyards 1/2 Marathon and 10K Run

ARC Decker Challenge Half Marathon, Marathon (race #3 in the Austin Fit Magazine Distance Challenge Series)

Saturday • Burnet County Road 409, Spicewood runintexas.com/spicewood-vineyards-marathon

Travis County Exposition Center austinrunners.org/decker

Run Like the Wind 5K and 3, 6, 12, and 24-hour runs

December 12 Jinglebell 5K and Kids K Benefitting MADD

6901 Bee Caves Road, 78735 schrodifund.org/RunLiketheWind December 5 Round Rock Rotary Reindeer Run

Round Rock, TX • www.5r5k.og

The Domain Shopping Center • Austin, TX redlicoriceevents.com/events/Jingle_ Bell_5k_2010.html December 15 Run for Your Life 5K

Rusty’s Walnut Creek Ranch 394 Pleasant Chapel Road • Cedar Creek, TX runforyourlive.com

(512) 280-2244 Info@SoccerZoneSouthAustin.com

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

AustinFitMagazine.com/events

January 7 Tejas Trails Bandera 100K, 50K, 25K (2012 USA Track and Field 100Km Trail National Championships)

December 16 Red Dress Run

Jack and Adam’s Bikes • Austin, TX jackandadams.com

Hill Country State Natural Area • Bandera, TX tejastrails.com/Bandera

December 17 Vern’s No Frills 5K (race #33)

Berry Springs Park and Preserve • Georgetown noexcusesrunning.com

January 21 Austin Gorilla Run 5K

1st Street Bridge, downtown Austin austingorillarun.com

December 18 Austin Reindeer Run 5K and Kids K

Camp Mabry • austinreindeerrun.com

January 22 Big Chili Adventure Sprint

JANUARY

South Shore Park • Bastrop, TX trifind.com/re_15986/BigChillAdventureSprint.html

January 2 5K Right Foot Run and 1 Mile Kids Run

FEBRUARY February 4 Cupid’s Chase 5K

Georgetown, TX • cupid.georgetown.org

February 19 Austin Marathon and Half Marathon

Austin, TX • youraustinmarathon.com Paramount Break-A-Leg 5K

Austin, TX • austintheatre.org/site/ Calendar?view=Detail&id=27001 Run for the Bluebonnets 5K/1K

Bastrop, TX • bb-pta.org/wp/?page_id=234

January 29 3M Half Marathon (4th race in the Austin Fit Magazine Distance Challenge Series)

Lifetime Fitness • South Austin active.com/running/Austin-tx

Stonelake Boulevard, Austin 3mhalfmarathon.com February

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THE WORKOUT BLACK SWAN YOGA 1114 West 5th Street • Austin, TX email: hello@blackswanyoga.com web: blackswanyoga.com

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

S P I B E LT ™

STRETCHING MO'S WORKOUT FLOW

by Monica Brant | photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

M

y training schedule usually calls for a very intense shoulder workout prior to doing my KMB feature, so I had trained alongside some clients at the track that morning not knowing what was in store for me later at Black Swan Yoga.

After that hard morning workout and a good meal, I picked up a friend and drove to Lululemon to pick out the best yoga outfit ever. I couldn’t imagine a more appropriate outfit! After selecting new yoga capris (they help whisk away sweat from the waistline) and a new extra-support tank, I was given the newest and greatest yoga mat (The Mat) to try as well. I am told this mat helps prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew and fungi (eeewwwww) and is super grippy—ideal for the Power Yoga class I was going to attend.

When I arrived I was introduced to Leigh Fisher, the instructor. I immediately noted how clean and open the new location is; it’s definitely an inviting place! Leigh informed me I would be up front, and the class soon began with some basic movements. Thankfully I had learned the basic vinyasa yoga during a previous KMB, so I was able to do the flow, and Leigh asked us to do this A LOT! While I like this flow sequence and have done it on my own quite a bit to warm-up prior to other workouts, it was all I knew about yoga!!

As Leigh progressed through the workout,

she asked the class to raise the bar as she brilliantly led us through the sequences and poses. I was happy to have a talented attendee next to me who I could follow, as I couldn’t always look up at Leigh for instruction. As the class advanced, the energy went from quiet and reserved to fun and vivid, coming back full circle at the end. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the Power Yoga class.

Leigh was motivating and inspiring; she kept the session fun and to the point. I would recommend attending a class here with Leigh to anyone! All of the instructors are paid solely by donations from attending customers, and there appear to be plenty of classes at all levels.

When I left, my entire body was tired but I also felt refreshed and loose! It was challenging and fun all at once. I have a new respect for yoga and will try to return occasionally to stretch my abilities. Thanks to Black Swan for the refreshing class! afm Special thanks to Lululemon on 6th & Lamar for the yoga outfit and mat and to Hair Goddess (http://hairgoddess.net) for the hair design!

Paul Carrozza Founder RunTex

Keep It Simple.

HOW IT WORKS In an endless search to find the best workouts in town, Monica Brant has agreed to be our “guinea pig” and take them on full force. Every month we feature a new trainer and a different set of workouts for our readers, while in the process trying to Kick Mo’s Butt! Check out Monica Online @ monicabrant.com & femcamp.net

KICK MO’S BUTT

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Muscle Movement of the Month #workout

CIRCUIT BLAST

for the Holidays

WATCH THE WORKOUT VIDEO ONLINE! www.

AustinFitMagazine .com

by Diane Vives, MS | photography by Brian Fitzsimmons

W

e are in the heart of the holiday season – how is your workout routine going? Are you small on time but large on excess calorie consumption? How’s your stress level?

Remember, even fun events can cause stress.

Now is the perfect time to have some quick, time-efficient workouts in your arsenal to maintain fitness and relieve holiday stress. This month we’ll target the lower body with a circuit using your own body weight, or wearing a weighted vest, that you can do in your own home or while traveling.

This metabolic circuit is intended to help you do more in less time. Perform the se-

ries of movements back-to-back, completing the movements in a full range of motion (if possible) and making every repetition count. After a 60- to 90-second rest, repeat exercises one through four. These quick repetitions with incomplete recovery time will really boost your caloric expenditure and work capacity.

Start by performing two circuits for the

LEG BLAST CIRCUIT

first two weeks. Then bump up your volume by performing three to four circuits in a single training session twice a week. This may not be ideal for a long-term program, but it’s a great compromise for the busy holiday season.

Start with using just body weight. Increase the challenge by wearing a weighted vest and adding 5 to10 percent of your body weight . Be sure to use one that fits snugly to maintain natural movement and form.

This circuit challenges the mind, body, and spirit so that you can feel great through the holiday season and maintain the fitness you’ve worked so hard to achieve. with BROOKE STACEY, CPT, FITNESS MODEL

1] Speed Squats • Start while standing tall, with feet hip-width apart, toes facing forward, and core braced.

• Squat by sitting back into your hips.

• Stop the downward movement when your upper leg is parallel to ground.

1

• Push through heels to return to a standing position with hips fully extended and squeeze the glutes.

• Repeat the exercise as fast as you can control with full range of motion for 24 repetitions.

Note: Always work in a painfree and successful range of motion; if needed, start by performing partial movements.

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AUSTINFITMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER 2011

shot on location at Castle Hill Fitness

2] Side Lunges • Start with feet hip-width apart.

Step directly to the right with your right foot just outside shoulder distance, lunging your body naturally in that direction.

2

• Sit back into the right hip and make sure that your right ankle, knee and hip are facing forward.

Your left foot stays flat on floor with left leg extended.

• Push off the heel of the right foot to return to start. Repeat on left side.

• Alternate from right to left side for a total of 24 repetitions.

3] Mountain Climbers • Start in a plank position with hands on the ground, flat torso and hips, and one foot and knee tucked underneath the body. The opposite leg is extended.

3

• Keeping your back flat, simultaneously exchanging the position of your feet as fast as you can control by pushing off the balls of the feet.

• Each exchange is a repetition; perform a total of 24 repetitions.

4] Skaters • Balance on your right foot with an athletic stance, slightly bending the ankle, knee and hip.

4

• Bound directly to your left, landing softly on your left foot with control and balance. Challenge yourself with increasing the distance but make sure to land safely and in a controlled manner.

• Quickly repeat going from left to right, counting each landing as a repetition, for a total of 24 repetitions. afm

Diane Vives, MS, is an Advisory Member of the Under Armour Performance Training Council. An internationally recognized fitness expert, she has appeared in several publications such as Women’s Health, Shape, and Muscle & Fitness Hers.

FITNESS MUSCLE MOVEMENT OF THE MONTH

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By the Numbers #bythenumbers

FITNESS AND PHILANTHROPY

Nearly every weekend there is a ride or race in Austin benefiting a worthy nonprofit organization. Austin residents—from the fittest to the fluffiest—routinely give time, training, and money to participate ‘for a good cause.’ Here’s how all that activity adds up.

The Austin Undie Run photo by Annie Ray

3.47 billion

4,500

179

5,679

Dollars raised for cancer awareness since the first Relay for Life 1985

Miles students from The University of Texas at Austin will ride from Austin to Anchorage, Alaska to raise money for cancer awareness

Number of swimmers who raced in the Money Box Cap 2K to raise money for Swimability

Number of backpacks the Wounded Warriors Project has delivered to soldiers returning from war

60

4,078

Flights of stairs climbed in the Fight for Air Climb hosted by the American Lung Association at the Frost Bank Tower

Number of philanthropies in Texas

2,544,760

Dollars raised by the Austin Marathon Relay for Junior Achievement, a program that helps students through Central Texas

11 Number of different countries the 2011 Race for the Cure will be hosted

17 Minimum number of charity bike rides Austin hosted in 2011

4,300 People who participated in the Austin LiveStrong Challenge in 2011

22,000 Dollars The University of Texas at Austin raised last year at a 12-hour dance marathon to benefit Dell Children's hospital

26 Number of charities the Austin Marathon and Half Marathon benefits

4,285 Articles of clothing the Austin Undie Run collected for LifeWorks, Top Drawer, and the Trinity Center

3 Number of men who ran from Boston to Austin in 2010 raising $8,694 to donate to four different charities

120,000 Dollars raised at the 2011 Capital 10K for the Austin Children’s Shelter and Stateman’s Swim Safe for Austin Kids

Number of dimes raised by Dell Inc. for March of Dimes in 2011

5

100,000

8,000

Number of tire changes the average bike rider will have in the Texas 4000, the longest charity bike ride which benefits MD Anderson and The Children’s Cancer hospital

Number of Burundians given access to water over the past 4 years as a result of Austin’s Run for the Water Race

6,000

100

Number of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches the Texas 4000 team will eat on their ride

Yards women run in the annual Stiletto Stampede benefitting the Susan G Komen Foundation

Sources: Relay for Life: Facts and Figures 2010; http://apps.komen.org/raceforthecure/; http://www.livestrong.org/Take-Action/Team-LIVESTRONG-Events/ Ride/Team-LIVESTRONG-Challenge-Austin; https://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=102181373176926&v=wall; http://youraustinmarathon.com/26for26; http://youraustinmarathon.com/26for26; http://www.texas4000.org/; http://austinontwowheels.org/cycling-events-calendar/; http://undierun.com/; http:// www.2000milerun.com/donations/; http://www.statesman.com/cap10k/race-information-982618.html; http://www.cap2k.com/; http://www.lungusa.org/ pledge-events/tx/austin-climb/local/event-information.html; http://www.marchforbabies.org/default.aspx?si=&u; www.texas4000.com; www.texas4000.com; http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/programs.aspx; www.cof.org/files/Documents/Government/StateGiving/TX.pdf; http://www.austinmarathonrelay. com/?page_id=160; http://gazellefoundation.com/runforthewater2011/details.html; http://www.stilettostampede.org/FAQ.html

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