Oblique Magazine January/February 2020

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Contributors Gregg Lambton-Carr Gregg is a native of South Africa. He has been

azine. She manages all online platforms,

izes in fashion, underwater, portraits, wedding,

media campaigns, Oblique events, am-

and lifestyle photography. To see his unique

bassadors and interns. You can reach ‘Q’

style, visit gregglcphoto.com.

by email at q@obliquemagazine.com.

Dennis K. Schimpf, MD, MBA, FACS

Richard is a personal trainer specializing in

Dr. Schimpf is double board certified by the

strength developmenent. This graduate from

American Board of Plastic Surgery and the

the College of Charleston utilizes the same

American Board of Surgery. He has also re-

proven principles in training his clients as he

cently earned an MBA degree from USC. Visit

does for himself. saad.strength@gmail.com.

sweetgrassplasticsurgery.com.

Jan Park, RN

Mike Campbell

Jan combines 25 years experience as a reg-

In 2009 Mike weighed over 350 pounds and

istered nurse, certified weight management

was on many medications to deal with the

specialist, trainer, corporate wellness manag-

health issues associated with obesity. In 363

er, and mom, in helping hundreds of people

days he lost 150 pounds and is now on a mis-

feel their best.. healthyourselfbyjp.com.

sion to help others. fatguydiary.com.

Dominique Mackins

Russell Green

Dominique earned her bachelor’s degree in

Russell is a local photographer specializ-

health sciences and community health while

ing in fitness, portrait and family photog-

playing volleyball at Portland State University.

raphy. His images along with a highly pro-

She is a cardiac nurse manager loving all things

fessional and fun approach, earned him a

health and wellness. @charlestonfitfoodie.

spot on this page. @russg_photography.

Eric Waldrop

Lauren Zimmerman, MS, RD, LD

Eric is the fitness director for Top Shape Fitness

Lauren is the lead dietitian at Synchronici-

located in downtown Charleston. He utilizes his

ty, where she focuses on an individualized

14 years of experience to help encourage and

approach to health with an emphasis on

motivate his clients to reach their healthy life-

plant-based nutrition. For more informa-

style goals. stevebasilestopshape.com.

tion, follow @eatandbewellwithlauren.

Dr. Travis Love

4

‘Q’ is the assistant editor of Oblique Mag-

a photographer for over 20 years and special-

Richard Saad

4

Susan ‘Q’ Patterson

Jennifer Bellini

Dr. Love is the chief medical officer, at both

Jennifer is a certified wellness coach and pre-

AquaVitae and Lowcountry Male located in Mt.

cision nutrition coach. She founded Moving

Pleasant. His primary interests are in Anti-Ag-

Forward, where she helps to enable each of

ing, Regenerative, Metabolic and Cosmetic

her clients to learn how to nourish their mind,

Medicine. lowcountrymale.com.

body and soul. jenniferbellini.com.

Low Testosterone?

Did you know that 1 out of 4 males over 30 have low testosterone levels?

Symptoms include Low sex drive Erection difficulty Fatigue Increased Body Fat Memory decline and more

Get Back in the

GAME!

If you suffer from any of these symptoms, it may be time to get your levels checked.

615 Johnnie Dodds Blvd Suite 102, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 843-936-6451 9231 Medical Plaza Dr Suite E, North Charleston, SC 29406 843-572-7715

lowcountrymale.com 5

Features

Contents

Departments

22

35 6

42 33 6

January/February 2020

Charleston’s

Oblique Cover Model

Liz

Jarck

Liz Jarck was born and raised in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

She attended Lenox High School, where she was a crosscountry runner and tennis player. In 2016, her family moved to Charleston. Prior to college, she took a gap year and attended a four-month program called “Pacific Discovery,”

30 Editor

John Di Giovanni

Assistant Editor

Susan ‘Q’ Patterson

Lead Photographer

Gregg Lambton-Carr

where she traveled throughout New Zealand and Australia.

She is currently a junior, studying marketing and communications at the College of Charleston. She enjoys working out, yoga and traveling. Nannying for triplets this past summer provided Liz with the opportunity to work with a special needs child whom she truly became inspired by. She now plans to get involved with her community and give back to those in need. Her goals in life are to find a job that fulfills her love for travel and sustainability while continuing to stay fit.

7

7

Apply

to Become an Oblique Ambassador Sarah Pledger

AMBASSADOR

We are looking for a few more high energy Oblique Ambassadors.

Great Exposure, Fun Group Classes, Photoshoots and more!

Visit obliquemagazine.com

To Apply

Photo by John Di Giovanni

8

8

From The Editor

Welcome to 2020! It’s that time of year again. Time to create new intentions, implement something new into your life and do something big!

That’s exactly what Oblique Magazine plans on for this New Year. We are taking

Gregg Lambton-Carr Photography

everything we learned in 2019 and making it bigger and better for 2020!

Oblique Magazine is extremely excited to have launched Zyia Oblique Magazine.

You will start seeing a lot more of this quality and affordable athleisure wear throughout all of our platforms. You can shop Zyia Oblique Magazine on our website and catch us at all of our pop-ups and events throughout Charleston.

Our current cover model, Liz Jarck, won our 2019 fitness fashion show fundraiser for Pedals4Peanuts by raising the most money with her Zyia team.

She is currently a senior at the College of Charleston and loves to travel, workout and work with the three triplets she nannies! We want to give a big shout out to Oblique ambassador Thayleigh Brent and Liz for their efforts in supporting Pedals4Peanuts and for winning the competition. Make sure to mark your calendars for February 20 for our Zyia Oblique Magazine fashion show at the Grand Bohemian Hotel.

We would also like to thank Crossfit Spartina, The Sweatbox, and Tidal Strength & Cycle for raising money through donation-based classes for Pedals4Peanuts.

If you are interested in hosting a fundraiser for this cause, please contact us so we can build more bikes for children of the low country.

So, what else is new in 2020 for Oblique? We are officially launching our digital magazine, which will allow our community to spread worldwide. You can find each release on our website to send to your friends and family.

You can find all of our 2020 events on www.ObliqueMagazine.com, which will be including fashion shows, fitness events, cooking classes, a wellness series and more!

Speaking of events, we can’t stop thinking about how unreal our first Art of Fashion event unfolded in December with Principle Gallery and Maris DeHart.

The event truly set the tone for 2020, and we hope to bring more of this element to the Charleston Art community through this year.

In this issue, you can catch one of our favorite yogis, Ashley Brown; top certified paddleboard instructor; and Eric Waldrop from Top Shape offering you the best exercises for your back.

As always, we want to thank our Oblique ambassadors and Oblique interns for making our platform what it is in the community.

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Slowing the Progression of

Age-Related Male Decline

by Dr. Travis Love

T

he most common question that

storative, and we begin to have afternoon

our metabolism slows, endurance is re-

I receive at Lowcountry Male

fatigue or night sweats. Over time, symp-

duced, physical activity declines, and we

is “Does testosterone replace-

toms worsen, and we begin to experience

are predisposed to weight gain.

ment

disease?”

increasing irritability, reduced interest in

The answer is no! A direct as-

cause

heart

daily activities, dwindling motivation, de-

However, testosterone replacement along

sociation between testosterone

clining physical endurance, losses in mus-

with weight-bearing exercise and balanced

replacement and heart disease has never

cle mass and gains in fat mass. When tes-

nutrition can help men maintain optimal

been established in individuals who main-

tosterone levels reach low-normal levels,

muscle mass, strength, balance and body

tain optimal testosterone levels. To the

our libidos decline, morning erections are

mass composition, which lowers the likeli-

contrary, there is substantial evidence that

less frequent, genitals may shrink and sex-

hood of developing insulin resistance, type

low-normal testosterone can lead to high

ual performance suffers.

II diabetes and other forms of age-related

cholesterol, hardening of the arteries, ar-

physical decline. Optimizing testosterone

terial plaques, hypertension, a 28 percent

Around age 30, men begin losing between 1

can also improve sleep, mood and libi-

increase in atrial fibrillation, obesity, insulin

and 3 percent of their testosterone produc-

do while restoring endurance, motivation,

resistance and type II diabetes, all of which

tion each year. As testosterone levels drop,

self-confidence and memory. You can’t

increase the risk for heart attack and stroke.

we simultaneously begin losing production

stop the aging process, but you can make

of white blood cells, red blood cells and

medical and lifestyle choices that will help

Our prime mental and physical capabilities

platelets. In addition, there’s a reduction in

you maintain a vibrant, active and reward-

are normally reached in our 20s or early 30s

calcium absorption and deposition within

ing future spent with friends and family for

and then start a gradual decline, which mir-

the walls of our bones. These cumulative

years to come.

rors our falling levels of hormones, vitamins

changes can increase risks for infection,

and minerals. The sequence of age-related

anemia and fractures. As time progresses

Dr. Travis Love, a South Carolina native, pri-

changes experienced in all men are very

and we lose more of our testosterone pro-

mary interests are in Anti-Aging, Regenera-

similar, but the rate at which we experience

duction, we begin to lose height; as much

tive, Metabolic and Cosmetic Medicine. Dr.

physical, sexual or emotional decline will

as two total inches. Most of this loss occurs

Love is a Diplomat of the American Acade-

be very individualized. These changes are

in the spine as the discs between verte-

my of Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine

often influenced by lifestyle choices, ge-

brae atrophy. The reduction in disc height,

and holds a Certification in Aesthetic Med-

netics and environmental factors.

combined with bone mineral density loss,

icine. Dr. Love received his Doctorate from

increases our risks for chronic back pain.

the Virginia College of Osteopathic Medi-

The experience generally begins with

With inadequate testosterone, men also

cine. He is the Chief Medical Officer at both

slightly foggy thinking and increasing dif-

experience a reduction in muscle mass and

AquaVitae and Lowcountry Male located in

ficulty with learning or recalling new in-

strength, which increases the strain on our

Mount Pleasant. For more information visit

formation. Often, sleep is no longer as re-

joints and spine. As muscle mass dwindles

lowcountrymale.com.

13

O

ne of the biggest misconceptions about weightlifting is that it will make you bulky.

Many people believe that if you so much as look at a weight, you’ll wake up look-

ing hulkish and unable to fit through doorways. This is an impossibility. The process of building muscle is extremely slow and even those that work hard to build as much muscle as possible take years to get significant results.

When you lift weights, you are applying stress to your body. Your bones, muscles and joints undergo this stress and break down slightly. If the stress is too great, injury is a possibility, but generally most people do not push themselves to this level. If the stress is manageable, your body undergoes a very efficient recovery process. Your body understands that this new stress needs to be adapted to so the next time it is presented, your muscles, bones, and joints are able to handle the stress with

Does Lifting Weights Make You

By Richard Saad

ease. In practice, this recovery takes

Bulky?

anywhere from 12 to 72 hours for most

Your body burns a specific number of

/ Calories out, you can see that it is dif-

people. A healthy diet with adequate

calories during the day – called your

ficult to gain much weight at all unless

protein, generally low stress and a

basal metabolic rate, or BMR. You can

you’re eating a large surplus of calories.

good night of sleep are vital to ensure

increase your BMR by increasing the

When you lift weights, your body burns

that you recover from a workout.

number of calories your body requires.

calories throughout the day to recover

The best way to do this is to increase

from training. Your fear of getting bulky

After the recovery process is complete,

your lean body mass. When trying to

is therefore unwarranted and should be

you will have built stronger bones,

lose weight, a caloric deficit is required.

tossed away. Lift weights to your heart’s

joints and muscles that are capable of

The formula is simple:

content (literally, because weight training can also benefit your cardiovascu-

handling higher amounts of stress. No other form of exercise has as much of

Calories in < Calories out = Weight Loss

first session you’ll look like Lou Ferrigno

a unified effect on your body. The ability to handle higher amounts of stress

Calories in > Calories out = Weight Gain

lift heavier weights but also daily tasks

Calories in = calories out = Weight

like picking up a heavy box, walking up

Maintenance

have your pants fit with ease.

Richard Saad is owner of Saad Strength,

a flight of stairs, or playing with your

14

in the Incredible Hulk. You’re more likely to look a little better in the mirror and

means that not only will you be able to

14

lar health) and fear not that after your

kids and grandkids will become much

By increasing your BMR and maintain-

llc. and is a certified personal trainer

easier. An added benefit to having more

ing a healthy diet in which you are con-

with Exemplar Fitness in James Island.

lean body mass is that the calorie re-

suming fewer calories than your body is

If interested in his training and dieting

quirement for your body to maintain it

burning, you will lose weight. Once you

services, you can reach him by calling

increases as you progress.

understand the principle of Calories in

864.907.0214.

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However, after several injuries during Active Duty, I no longer knew my limits or what was safe as far as a workout plan. I felt like I lost a firm grip on how to accomplish my fitness goals. Once I met with Steve Basile, the owner and heard what they had to offer, I knew I was in the right place. Top Shape has extremely knowledgeable trainers and the gym is not intimidating at all. I’ve seen amazing results– down 17 lbs and a definite transformation in my body. I am grateful to Steve, Eric, Nikki & Will because their expertise has driven me in ways I didn’t think I could after several surgeries. I would highly recommend Top Shape to anyone at any age, but I can’t name a favorite trainer because I use them all. Each trainer has a different approach and challenges me. I learn new things all the time and am a completely satisfied customer!!” ~ Jennifer

personal training

15

15

Sugar Is the

S

Culprit

by Jan Park, RN

ugar. If there’s one culprit

lines, women should have no more than

reals, desserts and other processed

most responsible for unleash-

100 calories, or six teaspoons, and for

foods that are high in sugar. When you

ing metabolic mayhem, it’s

men it’s 150 calories, or nine teaspoons.

have a sweet tooth, try reaching for a

sugar.

To put that in perspective, a 12-ounce

piece of fruit. Yes, fruit has sugar in it,

Coca-Cola can has about 10 teaspoons

but it is packaged up with fiber, vitamins

of sugar.

and minerals that have health-promot-

Why is sugar so bad? When you eat

ing benefits and is low calorie. Avoid

foods with added sugar, the extra sugar causes your blood glucose levels to

In the average American diet, added

fruit juices. It’s better to eat the piece

rise rapidly. Your body then secretes

sugar alone accounts for nearly 500

of fruit, which have the fiber and will

insulin to lower your blood sugar level.

calories per day, which is the caloric

keep you more full than a glass of ap-

Why do we care about insulin? Insulin

equivalent of 10 strips of bacon. Read-

ple juice. Which sugar free sweeteners

is an anabolic hormone that triggers

ing labels is the key to being aware of

are safe? The best zero-calorie, all-nat-

fat storage. As a result of the insulin

how much sugar may be sneaking into

ural sweeteners are Stevia and monk

decreasing your blood sugar, you will

your food products. You may be sur-

fruit. Taking steps to rid added sugar

experience rebound hunger not too

prised when you see certain yogurts

from your diet is the most effective ac-

long after you eat. This is one of the

that are marketed as being healthy

tion you can make for improving long-

reasons it’s hard to stop eating sugary

have about 24 grams of sugar in them,

term health and maintaining a healthy

things once you start. Sugar fuels an

which is the same amount of sugar as a

weight.

out-of-control appetite, and it is a driver

Hershey bar!

of obesity and inflammation. Despite its

16

ill effects, it seems to sneak into almost

What about honey and agave? These

Jan Park combines 25 years of experience

every product, often using aliases such

have the same impact on your blood

as a registered nurse, certified weight

as high-fructose corn syrup, brown rice

sugar and insulin levels as regular ta-

management specialist, fitness trainer,

syrup, dextrose, maltose, sucrose, glu-

ble sugar. However, it’s not the small

corporate wellness manager and mom

cose, fructose and others.

amount of honey that you put in your

in helping hundreds of people feel their

tea that we worry about. It’s the mas-

best. For more information, you can visit

So how much sugar is OK? According to

sive amount of sugar that adds up from

HealthYourselfbyJP.com, or contact Jan at

the American Heart Association guide-

sodas, sports drinks, sweetened ce-

jan@HealthYourseflbyJP.com.

Men + Women + Kids Offering Online and Private Shopping Experiences Partnerships available

ZyiaForAll.com

832.334.3371

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Our mission is to inspire and uplift by keeping activity fun and essential to life.17

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Imagine Loving Yourself Mind, Body & Soul It takes care, courage and commitment and I’m here to coach you through it.

Are you ready to live your happiest, healthiest life?

Let’s move forward.

www.movingforwardhealthandwellness.com jennifer@jenniferbellini.com

843-754-6494

Beauty Tips by

Vi

How to Freshen Up Your 2020 Look!

1. Change your hair part! It’s such a subtle change but it makes a huge difference!

2. Always use toner as a base before you moisturize! Toner makes all the difference with makeup application! Foundation goes on a lot smoother too! I always use a toner before bed as well as in the morning too!

Host Your Own

Pedals4Peanuts

Donation Fitness Class Help raise money and be seen in Oblique!

For more information, email us at info@obliquemagazine.com

3. I always change my foundation from summer/spring to fall/winter. Our skin tends to change season to season, whether it be drier in the in Winter and more oily in the summer. So I make sure to tend to my skin needs!

Hoang Vi Fessenden @hoangviton 843.822.8843 19

Diastasis

When you just can’t get that flat belly you so badly want….

T

By Dennis Schimpf, MD, MBA, FACS

20

20

his time of year is full of excite-

“six pack” (or eight pack in rare cases). This

There is good and bad news. This rounded-

ment, anticipation (and maybe

most commonly occurs after childbirth and

ness to your abdomen is not a result of you

a little anxiety) of the holidays, a

is often worse with multiple pregnancies as

dieting right or working out hard enough.

new year, and often times, new

well as with significant weight gain and loss.

There is no exercise or amount of dieting

goals to achieve a new and im-

Both a child and significant intra-abdominal

and exercise that will flatten diastasis. This

proved you. It is an interesting

fat cause pressure against the inner lining of

is also not a medical condition which war-

phenomenon, the desire to usher every

the abdominal wall forcing the fascia, which

rants any type of medical care. However,

New Year with goals to improve your health

holds the two vertical rectus abdominus

if you do want to fix it the only true way to

and appearance. Having recently commit-

muscles in place, to stretch and separate.

do that is with surgery. Using sutures that

ted to a workout regimen myself over the

In a perfect setting, these two muscles are

space can be plicated and the muscles

past year, I can relate all too well with how

within a half of an inch to an inch of each

re-approximated once again flattening the

important it is to see improvement as you

other. However, this space can increase to

abdomen. While invasive, it is the definitive

continue to work hard fueling further moti-

several inches in a woman who has children

answer. Otherwise, continue working out,

vation. Unfortunately, sometimes no matter

or a person who has lost a large amount of

enjoy the results and be proud of that little

how hard you work to get that flat stom-

weight. This takes a flat stomach with intact

pooch, most likely it’s the result of a beau-

ach you have always wanted, it just doesn’t

vertical muscles of the abdomen which are

tiful child or a great weight loss adventure!

seem to happen, and your left asking your-

well approximated to each other and cre-

self what am I doing wrong. No doubt, diet

ates a rounded “pooch like” appearance to

Dennis K. Schimpf, MD, MBA, FACS, is board

is a huge part of the equation as is a com-

the abdomen. Most commonly this is seen

certified by the American Board of Plastic

mitment to the gym and cardio. But, even

at a pool or beach where young moms are

Surgery. To learn more about his private

with all that, sometimes it still doesn’t hap-

playing with their kids. The mom may be

practice, procedures and locations you

pen.

skinny and in shape yet have a full round-

can visit www.sweetgrassplasticsurgery.

ed appearance to her abdomen and if you

com. Dr. Schimpf’s book, Finding Beauty, is

Diastasis recti is a fancy term used to de-

were to ask them most would admit they

published by Advantage Media Group and

scribe separation of the abdominal mus-

walk around in a bathing suit trying to hold

is available on Amazon and all major online

cles or the muscle otherwise known as the

their “belly” in.

retailers.

Thank You Sponsors!

For helping ZyiaforAll raise the most money for the wonderful local charity Pedals4Peanuts during Oblique Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fitness Wear Fashion Event.

Because of your generosity, many local children will be gifted their very own bike!

Our Generous Sponsors

21

OBLIQUE AMBASSADORS Spent the day in Hampton Park to train, relax and have fun in style.

22

Photographer - Gregg Lambton-Carr Models - Heather Black, Jenny Fisher, Gunnar Moldrik and Jackie McKelvey

Top quality active fashion now sold through Oblique Magazine. Follow us on instagram @zyiaobliquemagazine to place your order.

23

Timmy Timmy Kelly Kelly

Oblique Oblique Magazine Magazine Creative Creative Director Director 24

25

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Thank You Sponsors!

Rep Your Weight For helping ZyiaforAll raise the most money for the wonderful local charity Pedals4Peanuts during Oblique Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fitness Wear Fashion Event.

Because of your generosity, many local children will be gifted their very own bike!

Bench Press Competition

Individual, Teams, Men and Women Follow us for updates

@obliquemagazine

Men will bench full body weight for reps Women will bench half body weight for reps Our Generous Sponsors Events will be held throughout the Lowcountry in 2020

If interested in sponsorships and/or hosting, email John at

info@obliquemagazine.com

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Have a

POP-UP! In your

Fitness Facility Business or Home For more information Contact Susan â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Qâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Patterson

at q@obliquemagazine.com photo by Gregg Lambton-Carr

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Play winemaker in a Wine Blending Class. Leave with your own custom bottle. Classes available Thursday through Sunday.

Visit charleston.classesbykessler.com to reserve your spot.

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Clayton Merritt

Oblique Featured Fitness Professional

“I enjoy personal training because I find nothing more rewarding than helping others improve their quality of life and self-confidence through achieving their physical fitness goals.”

- Clayton Merritt Clayton first attended the University of South Carolina to pursue a degree in business in 2011. However, it did not take long for him to realize the field of business was not a passion of his. After completing his first year of college, Clayton then instead decided to join the United States Army to be an infantryman. Through multiple combat deployments and a four-year enlistment, Clayton was able to rediscover his passion for fitness. Upon concluding his enlistment with the army, in 2017, Clayton enrolled at the College of Charleston to attain his BS in exercise science. While working toward his BS, Clayton also provides personal training services at Gold’s Gym in Mount Pleasant, where he enjoys helping people reach their fitness goals to afford them the ability of doing what they are passionate about. For more information visit www.goldsgym.com/mt-pleasant-sc/ 30

30

External ShoulderbyRotation Doug Glover Benefits

1. Helps to correct slouching or rounded shoulders.

2. Opening the shoulders can relieve tension in the neck and traps.

3. Better range of motion can help to prevent tension headaches.

All assisted stretching should be done by a certified, knowledgeable stretch therapist.

Contact Doug Glover at charleston@stretchzone.com with any questions or to make an appointment.

Give Them a Follow!

Jenny Fisher @fitfishmom

AMBASSADORS

Heather Black

Sarah Pledger

Gunnar Moldrik

Sarah Donegan

@heatherblackfit

@gunnar_made

Jackie McKelvey @colormehearty

Jan Park

@health_yourself_byjp

Emma Waugh

@girleatscharleston If interested in applying to become an Oblique Ambassador, visit www.obliquemagazine.com

@pledgetraining

@mytrainersarah

Nick Price

@nick_price17

Thayleigh Brent @zyiaforall

Vi Fessenden @hoangviton

Alex Watson

@thewhiteroomstyle 31

31

OBLiQUE Recipe

@charlestonfitfoodie

Photo by Dominique Mackins

BBQ Spaghetti

Squash Boats

Recipe provided by Dominique Mackins of Charleston Fit Foodie.

This recipe uses The New Primal's Whole30 approved Buffalo Sauce.

Instructions 1. Cook spaghetti squash. Preheat oven to 400' before cutting squash in half. Scoop out the seeds, brush the inside with avocado oil, and bake on a lined baking

Ingredients 2 Tbs avocado oil 1 medium spaghetti squash 1 chicken breast

sheet (face up) for 35-40 minutes. Take out and let cool for 10 minutes, and then add to a bowl and shred (don't throw away squash boats).

2. Cook chicken (grill, bake, or Instant Pot until able to

¼ onion chopped ½ bell pepper chopped

shred) and then mix with ½ cup BBQ sauce. www.charlestonfitfoodie.com 3. Heat skillet on medium heat with avocado oil. Saute @charlestonfitfoodie onion & bell pepper for 3-5 minutes, then let cool.

Photo by Dominique Mackins 4. Add sauteed veggies and chicken to squash and combine.

1 cup The New Primal BBQ Sauce ½ jalapeno 1 Tbs cilantro Whole30 compliant ranch (optional) 32

5. Add mixture back into the two boats, then top with jalapeno, cilantro, remaining BBQ sauce, and ranch as desired.

MEAL PREP GOT YOU FEELING LIKE

Purple Produce

deserves a place on your plate

by Lauren Zimmerman, MS, RD, LD

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Which sugar free sweeteners are safe? The best zero calorie all Purple produce gets its pigment from the phytonutrient

natural sweeteners are stevia and

anthocyanin. This powerful plant compound and nutrient

monk fruit. Taking steps to rid

provides many health benefits to us, including protecting

added sugar from your diet is the

against heart disease and cancer, suppressing inflammation,

most impactful action you can

enhancing brain health, providing antioxidants and promoting detoxification processes in the body. So next time you are in

make for improving long

the grocery store, add red grapes, purple potatoes, beets,

term health and maintaining a

berries, kidney beans, eggplant and even purple carrots to

healthy weight.â&#x20AC;?

your cart and find ways to include at least one source daily.

If it comes in purple, choose purple.

- Jan Park, Registered Nurse, Certified Weight Management Specialist 33

I was doing to me! I’d reboot to my journey’s factory settings and watch that reboot fizzle out in a few days or a week, maybe a little longer. Polly, my wife, watched this madness, knowing she could support me but also knowing I had to make the commitment. I would reboot again and again. I’ve always used the word reboot because it most closely explains my thought process in dealing with a journey gone off the rails.

You don’t throw out the entire computer because it isn’t working properly. You reboot the system to original settings or the last settings that worked. So at least I continued to reboot even though the setting did not take hold.

Well, my umpteenth reboot occurred on

Confession From The FATGUY

Y

by Mike Campbell

and feeling focused. The simple sugars are gone from my nutrition, and I’ve built workout routines that work with my circumstances. My scoliosis and significant L3 issues are not going anyplace. These are circumstances I must accept and manage. These

es, I confess, my journey the

would take one step forward and two steps

stances don’t define me; how I deal with

past 18 months has hit wall af-

back. As my pain grew, my ability to func-

them will define me. Failure is not hitting a

ter wall. I haven’t handled it well.

tion normally decreased. My workout habits

wall. Failure is hitting that wall, falling down

Some of you know I hit the tri-

disappeared, and I found myself reverting

and not getting up. I’ve gotten up every time

fecta of events in my life in April

to old eating habits to deal with the pain. My

and one more time than I’ve been knocked

2018. My dad was diagnosed

comfort zone became too many calories,

down. That is success!

with cancer, and my brother’s family was hit

too much sugar, and too many unhealthy

head-on by a drunk driver on the interstate.

carbs. I was in trouble.

right hip. As I sat in hospitals with my brother’s family and then my dad for a month, the pain grew much worse, encompassing my right glute, hip and leg. I chalked the pain up to less activity and sitting too much until it became unbearable.

After consulting a doctor, I found out my

Don’t let your circumstances define you.

How you choose to deal with your circum-

“I did one thing right during all of my time heading in the wrong direction. I reset or rebooted my journey over and over again.”

stances is what defines you. And get up every time you’re knocked down — you are worth it!

-Mike Campbell Continue to join Mike on his journey in each

lumbar spine is a bit of a mess with signif-

34

of writing this article, I am down 20 pounds

are the cards I’ve been dealt. My circum-

At that time, I was starting to have pain in my

34

October 7, 2019. That reboot took hold! As

icant scoliosis and multiple issues above

I did one thing right during all of my time

issue of Oblique Magazine. You can visit his

and below L3. I thought at the beginning

heading in the wrong direction. I reset or

website at www.fatguydiary.com and also

of this year I was successfully rebooting

rebooted my journey over and over again. I

contact him directly at 843.637.0723 with

my journey. It turned out for much of 2019, I

was tired, worn out and disgusted with what

questions and comments.

Yoga Pose Oblique

Eka Pada Vasisthasana One-Legged Side Plank Practiced by Lauren

Bristow @bristow_lauren

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yoga is transformation - mentally, physically and spirituallyâ&#x20AC;?

- Lauren Bristow

Yoga clothing provided by Yoga clothing provided by

Photo by Russell Green

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Tame That Mean Girl Voice

I

by Jennifer Bellini

’m fat. I’m ugly. I’m stupid. I’m unlov-

ing train and feel confident about who you

in your notes on your phone so you always

able. I will never be good enough to ...

are.

have it. When you’re feeling down and not

• Fit into my skinny jeans — I’m not

When you tell yourself that you will never

that list out loud. Remind yourself you are

be successful or that you are not as good

a strong, confident, beautiful, and capable

as other people, you reduce your feelings

woman. This is not about bragging or be-

• Own my own business — I’m not smart

of self-worth, self-esteem, confidence, and

ing stuck up. Rather it’s about being honest

enough.

deter yourself from facing your fears!

with yourself about what you do well. There

• Lift heavy weights in the gym — I’m not

Although the negative nelly will never fully

are capable of whatever life throws in your

strong enough.

leave you, it is possible to tame her down.

direction. We all need a reminder of our

How? Try these two tips to start getting out

greatness.

skinny enough.

good enough, open your notes and read

is no shame in reminding yourself that you

• Lose that extra weight — I’m not capable

of your head and tame that mean girl down: You deserve nothing but the best for your-

enough First and foremost: awareness. Sometimes

self. Don’t let the mean girl get the best of

• Be in a healthy happy intimate relation-

we have been inundated with her voice and

you. Don’t let her run your life. Don’t let her

ship — I’m not loveable enough.

narrations for so long we don’t even recog-

hold you back from embracing your best

nize it anymore, or we become oblivious

life. Let’s tame that mean girl voice and

Do you see the trend here? You’re aboard

to the messages we send ourselves and

start living the most vivacious, energetic

the “I’m not good enough” train. Come on,

the noise in our heads — we only recog-

and healthiest life!

girl! You are better than that!

nize that we feel bad. Pay attention to your thoughts and recognize that just because

Jennifer Bellini obtained her Wellness

Ladies, the way we talk to ourselves is ter-

you think something, doesn’t make it true.

Coach Training & Certification through the

rible. It’s self-sabotage. Think about it this

Our thoughts are often exaggerated, bi-

International Associates for Wellness Pro-

way, would you talk to your child, moth-

ased and twisted.

fessionals (IAWP) and continued her formal

er, friend or partner in this way? No, you

36

36

education in holistic health and healing by

wouldn’t! So why talk yourself that way?

Second, shut her up by reminding yourself

way of the CORE Coaching Method (CCM).

Would you accept a loved one criticizing

how freaking awesome you are!! Drown her

In 2018, Jennifer became a certified Preci-

you, telling you that you suck? Of course

out with positive statements, and it doesn’t

sion Nutrition Coach and member of the

you wouldn’t. So again, why accept it from

have to be cheesy either. Give yourself a pep

Rhapsody Brain Trust. To learn more about

yourself? It’s time to get off the self-defeat-

talk — it works! Write a list of your strengths

Jennifer’s services, visit jenniferbellini.com.

:

At CrossFit Spartina we believe: · It is your commitment to the process that will determine your progress · Improvements are only temporary until they become a part of who you are · Your intentions will determine your impact · We must focus on the action, not the outcome · Desire is the engine that drives behavior · When we tie our habits to our personal values, we give them a more meaningful purpose

1980 Ashley River Road, B Charleston, SC 29407

www.crossfitspartina.com info@crossfitspartina.com 843-901-0279

Open 24/7 No Contract Personal Trainers

Alexander White & Emily Jordan 37

843-323-6642 1525 Ashley River Road www.thesweatboxllc.com 37

A Chat with

Ashley Brown

Photo by Meredith Finney Garrigan Ashley Brown is the recipient of the American Canoe Association 2019 Excellence in Instruction Award. The highly esteemed award is presented to an ACA member for outstanding contributions to paddlesports education and instruction. She shares her passion of teaching kayaking at all levels and challenging people to test their limits while learning and having a ton of fun. She earned the prestigious Level 5 American Canoe Association Advanced Open Water Coastal Kayaking Instructor Certification and is also an ACA L2 Kayak IT, L4 Coastal Kayak Instructor Trainer Candidate, canoe instructor and SUP instructor.

Ashley travels the world sharing her talent and knowledge with clubs, groups and outfitters as well as at events and symposiums. Her dedication to teaching brought her to the College of Charleston, where she has been developing university-level curriculum in kayaking and SUP. At the College of Charleston, Ashley serves as an adjunct professor of coastal kayaking, instructor development, and standup paddleboard in the Health Education and Human Performance Department and helps young adults develop with an outstanding experience and perspective.

For more information about Ashley and her services, visit charlestonpaddles.com or email her directly at ashley@charlestonpaddles.com.

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Can you tell us a little about your back-

stress or frustration, you just keep going

nothing that takes all of me the way that

ground?

back. There is so much to learn to increase

paddling does. I’m just being honest: also,

your performance. A never-ending learning

there is a bit of vanity in wanting to achieve

curve — I love this challenge.

high level certifications and be recognized

My path to paddlesports was NOT a straight

as a bad-ass paddler.

line! I am an art teacher and my first outdoor sport love was rock climbing! Then I moved to Charleston, and rock climbing around

“There was a time

here is challenging. It was coincidence that

when I would work

a neighbor introduced me to kayaking. I

its significance to your path?

enjoyed the wide open space of being on

for sandwiches and

This is the honor of a lifetime. It is hard for

the water, that you could paddle when all

T-shirts. A long time!

me to describe how important this valida-

of Charleston is as hot as the surface of the sun, and when you’re on the water there is

So if you are happy

no way to be distracted by other parts of

to do the work for

your life. You get to be all-in for those few hours.

sandwiches and T-shirts, you REALLY

“When you find

love what you

something that

are doing.”

takes your brain

- Ashley Brown

and body, gives you that clarity and clean exhaustion, that isn’t from stress or frustration, you just keep

tion has been for my dedication to the sport, the ACA, and the College of Charleston. I have no idea where it will lead, but hopefully to water all over the world!

“Charleston has water access for everyone, from the novice to the expert! The Charleston paddling

How did this love of kayaking lead to a profession?

There was a time when I would work for sandwiches and T-shirts. A long time! So if you are happy to do the work for sandwiches and T-shirts, you REALLY love what you

community is growing, and I am excited to be a part of its growth.”

- Ashley Brown

going back.”

are doing. I led tours and taught classes and

- Ashley Brown

at the College of Charleston about six years

Where do you see sea kayaking in the fu-

ago. I spent a few years teaching one class

ture, not just in the local area, but also in

per semester, and now it is full time. (Yes,

your own life?

Why did you get into kayaking?

I needed to be outside, on and in the water,

got a job teaching Intro to Coastal Kayaking

students receive academic credit and can become ACA-certified kayak instructors as

Charleston has water access for everyone,

CofC students.)

from the novice to the expert! The Charleston paddling community is growing, and I

and I needed the mental clarity. It started as a way to get some exercise, became a

What motivated you to take your passion to

community of friends, then a career. Differ-

another level?

am excited to be a part of its growth.

From Baja, Mexico, to the Bay of Fundy in

ent bodies can find different answers to the

39

Can you tell us about your recent award and

problems of kayaking in the ocean; I enjoy

The ocean doesn’t care about you. It is so

Nova Scotia, I have had the privilege of trav-

the challenge of trying to finesse my way

exciting to have to manage your skinny little

eling to paddle and teach in amazing plac-

through things that I can’t power my way

boat, and all your students, with conditions

es! I hope to keep expanding my travels.

through. When you find something that

that might include big swells, breaking surf,

There is so much water that I need to learn

takes your brain and body, gives you that

currents and wind. It definitely takes all of

about and spend time in, and I plan to see

clarity and clean exhaustion, that isn’t from

my focus and physical attention. There is

as much of it as I can!

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Eric Waldropâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Top 4 Back Exercises Eric Waldrop is the fitness director for Top Shape Fitness, located in the Cigar Factory of downtown Charleston. Eric began his personal training career 14 years ago with Top Shape Fitness in Greenville, South Carolina, where he was also born and raised. He is a graduate of Columbia International University and holds personal training and nutrition certifications through NASM and NCSF, with specializations in corrective exercise and performance enhancement. Eric has always had a passion for encouraging and motivating others, and it is through the service of personal training that his passion finds great fulfillment. He believes that personal training is not solely about proper exercise but also an avenue of creating an awareness and balance of a healthy lifestyle, setting and achieving goals and building internal and external self-confidence. For Eric, personal training is a conduit through which he is afforded an opportunity to help individuals reach their optimal potential and a deeper level of life fulfillment. For more information visit. stevebasilestopshape.com.

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1

1. Wide Grip Pull-Ups: Wide grip pull ups are a great exercise for building out the latissimus dorsi, also known as the “V shape” of the back. When performing any exercise it is important to utilize the full range of motion in order to ensure full muscle engagement.

Therefore, when performing wide grip pull-ups, the individual will want to allow for the full extension of the arms at the bottom of the movement. This is often referred to as the Peak Point of Stretch.

Then, in a controlled fashion, with a slight arch in the chest to further engage the upper back muscle, the individual will pull themselves as high as possible allowing for a full concentric contraction at the top of the movement. This is often referred to as the Peak Point of Contraction.

2

2. Seated Rows: One of the most prevalent imbalances found in client assessments is poor posture; the seated row is one of the most effective exercises to correct such an imbalance. The individual will want to somewhat exaggerate the arch within the chest during this movement in order to ensure that the negative or eccentric portion of this exercise stretches the latissimus dorsi and multiple other upper back muscles while not straining the lower back. Therefore, hold the chest arch while reaching the Peak Point of Stretch, as well as the Peak Point of Contraction, and take care not to lean backward during the positive or concentric portion of the exercise.

3

3. Cable Reverse Flys: Cable reverse flys also carry great influence in correcting postural imbalances. Within this exercise the individual is able to isolate the posterior deltoids. which are often underworked and overlooked. Weakness within the posterior deltoids can oftentimes be the leading reason for rotator cuff injuries. This exercise is perfect for avoiding such injuries, as well as correcting the greatly unwanted look of “rolled-in shoulders.” The goal is to hold the elbows at this precise light slant throughout the entire eccentric and concentric motion, which will allow for the isolation of the posterior deltoids at the Peak Point of Contraction.

4. Bosu Ball Hyper Extensions: Bosu ball hyper extensions are one of the safest and most efficient exercises in working the core mus-

4

cles of the lower back. As it is of utmost importance to protect our lower back, we must not neglect working those very core muscles that are integral in safeguarding us from injury. The goal within this movement is to find a balanced and safe position atop of the ball which will elevate the hip complex in a way that will enable the individual to adequately stretch and contract the muscles of the lower back without putting those very same muscles in avulnerable position, risking injury. For this exercise to create maximal benefit to the core muscles of the lower back, it is of great importance to ensure that the entirety of the motion is done in an exceedingly controlled fashion, focusing on stabilizing the lower back in the negative or eccentric position, as well as squeezing those lower back muscles in the positive or concentric position.

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EVENTS

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Event Quotes “I loved being able to try acro yoga and learn how easy it is to build my own buddha bowls at home.”

- Alyssa Boyle, @thesynclife “It was such a fun-filled event with amazing vendors and it was a great way to kick back mid-week and just have a fun time with friends!’

- Allison Olawsky, @charleston_charmed

CrossFit Spartina

“I feel so lucky to have worked with amazing local small businesses to make all of my middle school sleepover dreams come true!”

- Emma Waugh, @girleatscharleston “Thank you to everyone who joined us for this fun event at Tidal Strength & Cycle.”

- Karen Hempfling, @tidalstrengthcycle “Gathering as a community to raise money for Pedals4Peanuts was an experience I will never forgetand always cherish.”

- Ashley Jackson, @thesweatboxcharleston

The Sweatbox

“This event was another outlet for our Spartina family to give back to the community that we love so much.’

- Brittani Hough, @cfspartina ”The Kitchen Series Kickoff Party brought a group of healthminded individuals together into a meal, create an avocado rose, and gather around a table to enjoy great food and even better company.”

- Dominique Mackins, @charlestonfitfoodie

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Tidal Strength & Cycle 45

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