fithiphealthy

2 WEEKS TIL... 17 May 2012

Summer!  Roll 'em up and grab those bands and get Lithe.

Image of Lithe Instructor, Shannon Graham in Hot Legs via Dom

DEAR LITHE {LOVE LETTERS}. 17 May 2012

Hi Lauren,

I got married this past Saturday, and I want to give a huge "thank you" to Lithe--and especially to you.  

My now-husband had to move to DC for work last August, so for the past nine months, I've been alone in Philly all week, every week, trying to cope with a long-distance relationship while planning a wedding.  Lithing five or six times a week has provided me with a sense of community, and the daily routine has kept me from feeling too lonely without Ed around.  It's kept me happy and sane during a year that has, in many ways, been quite difficult.

 

In addition to the mental and emotional benefits, Lithe made me feel confident and beautiful in my wedding dress.  Throughout my life, I've been conditioned to be modest and self-effacing, but I can't deny that I felt absolutely, totally gorgeous on Saturday.  (My husband described me as "smoking hot," which felt pretty awesome.)  I'm stronger, sleeker, and fitter than I've ever been in my life, and it feels so great.  Thank you for giving me so much confidence!  (I can send you pictures when we get them!) 

Again, thanks for everything.  I've basically never even spoken to you in real life, but you've played such an important role in my past couple of years.  Now I must begin my campaign for a Lithe studio in DC! Pleeeeease?  :)  I'm moving there in August and will be so heartbroken to leave Lithe behind! 

Thanks again,

 Sarah

 

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 16 May 2012

 

As our beloved Lithe community grows and expands, more and more new faces are flooding the studios. From new instructors, to new faces behind the counter, it seems like I’m meeting new people daily. With each new person comes a new story, and something unique to add to the Lithe family. Kristin Koefoed, one of these newcomers, tell us a little more about herself.

1. Mine is the little tan hand behind the little brown pen that writes out all the Lithe Foods labels at Lithe, and I'm the little brunette with the asymmetrical hair that says Hello! to you at Northern Liberties and Old City.
2. I love cartoons. My aspiration is to become a famous cartoonist and have my own cartoon show. From there I will revive the awesomeness that was 90's Nickelodeon, cause kids today deserve better!
3. My parents took me to Philly for my birthday when I was about 7. We walked past the University of the Arts on Broad Street, and I told them, "I'm going to school there!" They did what good parents do and just agreed. A decade later, it was the only school to which I applied and I refused to take my guidance counsellor's advice on safety schools. As it turned  out, little me really was a bit psychic and I now have my BFA.
4. I've worked a number of jobs as a face-painter and arts & crafts instructor for children in New Jersey and Philly, and they've been some of the most uplifting experiences I've ever had.
5. I like to dress up for holidays, even (especially) if there's no costume party. Those of you who took classes at Old City on Easter may remember my bunny ears with justifiably in-fashion white faux fur vest. I was so excited we had the Carrot Ginger Lemonade to complete my ensemble!
6. My whole life has been spent on the stage. My first play was in 2nd grade (I was an Evil Magic Flower) and I never hesitated to jump at a casting call or a request for volunteers from a Colonial Williamsburg Player. I also danced for 13 years, doing tap, jazz, some hip hop, ballet, and my specialty: pointe.
7. I did fencing for a little while in high school. The teacher was this totally awesome metal dude, and gave me the best compliment, I think, ever when he said I was a "natural born warrior." I like to call on this memory whenever I go through one of those little stressful phases Life throws at you to keep you paying attention :)
8. Growing up, the other kids never got my jokes. But the teachers did. To this day, I relate more to people my parents' age than my own.
9. My kind of humor is observational and sarcastic, which sometimes gets me into trouble when I try to kid with people who don't know me that well.
10. I love chicken something ridiculous. I don't like eating animals that look back at you, but a chicken pooped on my hand when I was little so I think part of me is still mad.
11. Working at Lithe has been one of the most beneficial resources and biggest inspirations to me as far as forcing myself to accept that I am not superhuman and do need proper nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle on top of however much exercise I may pride myself on. After years of self-delusion, I've come to terms with the fact that even if you can run from Queen Village to the Zoo and back, no problemo, you still aren't allowed to flood your system with ice cream, candy, and coffee on a regular basis and call yourself healthy.
12. My exercise playlist includes the soundtracks to Kill Bill 1 and 2, as well as classic hits like “Eye of the Tiger” and Joe Esposito's “You're the Best.”
13. If you ever take a class when I'm working at Northern Liberties, chances are I'm standing on a phone book behind the desk.
14. I was born in the first hospital in America, right here in Philadelphia. My mom and dad used to call it the Kristin Store, which always made me curious as to what the selection was like.
15. One time I tried to run away in Toys 'R' Us because I wanted to live there. I figured they had a kitchen set, a little house, and I was set. When my finally dad caught me, in a last ditch effort, I yelled "He's not my daddy!" I was about 2 or 3. I wasn't allowed back in Toys 'R' Us after that, so I formed a strong love for the giant LCD Tic Tac Toe game at the Kids 'R' Us next door.
16. I am very good at Tic Tac Toe to this day.
17. Although I never had a fancy gaming system growing up (unless you count a hot pink Gameboy Color, with Pokemon Yellow and the Simpsons Treehouse of Horror games), sometimes my dad would take me and my mom to Ocean City and let me loose in Jilly's Arcade with a bag of quarters that weighed as much as I did. These trips were how my parents helped me deal, when little me would get frustrated by the things that frustrate kids.  18. One game I'll never play is the Cool Game. The rules are different on every field, and I have too much to do to keep them all straight!
19. My alltime favorite show is The X-Files. I own the I Want To Believe poster and I have two sets of Agent Scully and Mulder action figures that I got for my 12th birthday... one set still packaged and one set I can actually play with.
20. I have two furry babies. Sigmund Salvatore Stardust (Ziggy for short) is a 5 month old Mini-Daschund, and Cuy Valdar is a one year old Guinea pig.
21. I will never be able to live anywhere more than an hour from the sea. It's such an incredible feeling to be able to stand at the edge of the water, watching the horizon dance in the early morning before everyone else is awake.
22. I want to live near forests and mountains as well though, because I want every environment as an option for potential adventures. This is why I have the West Coast as part of my Long Term Goal list.
23. Right after I live in NYC for 2-3 years.
24. Right after I learn a form of martial arts.
25. I want to learn and see everything. I want to go everywhere. I want to travel the world, and I try to live poor so I can save up to do that someday.

Kristin, 90s Nickelodeon is basically responsible for the entire basis of my sense of humor today. Watching kids with Canadian accents get slimed, tell scary stories in the dark, and search through a hidden temple for random fake relics was really quality programming. To this day, I try to tell people that there was a cartoon on the network that involved a little girl who used to fly through the air with two of her stuffed animals (koala bears?) that would come to life when she touched noses with them. No one knows what I’m talking about. I’m starting to think I imagined it. If you ever need a pal to watch old episodes of Eureka’s Castle, I’m your girl.

See you in class!

In-Studio Image of Kristin via Sayeh

HAPPY NEWS! 15 May 2012

Lithe Instructor, Marisa Shaaban is expecting baby #3!  She's about 19 weeks and is still kicking butt in classes like Split and Hot-stepper and Marisa also just ran Philly's Broad Street Run!  Congratulations!

Image of Marisa Shaaban via Dom   

LITHE PHILLY & MAIN LINE INSTRUCTOR AUDITIONS! 15 May 2012

Lithe Method Philadelphia Instructor Auditions – Saturday, June 2nd, 2012

For those of your who will be attending Lithe's Instructor Auditions or are considering auditioning and want to learn more, please plan on coming early and attending our mandatory 30 minute info session on Saturday, June 2nd at 1:30PM at Lithe Old City!    

Lithe Method Studios is searching for Center City Philadelphia and Main Line Instructors!  Become part of a unique, innovative workout and a growing team leading the industry in health and fitness.  We're looking for Spirited, outgoing, Philadelphia-based women with proficient dance, cheerleading and/or fitness background. 

Who are we looking for?  Take a peek at our PRESS KIT and what it takes to be a LITHE GIRL.  Interested and want to learn more?  Please email your head-shot and professional resume to Lauren@lithemethod.com.

Auditions:
Saturday June 2nd, 2012
2PM-4:00PM

Lithe Method Old City
219 Cuthbert St. 
Philadelphia, PA  19103
 

Wear fitted clothing and be prepared to Lithe!  Space is limited.  Please email your head-shot (any picture will do) and current work resume to Lauren@lithemethod.com.  

Images of Lauren Boggi & Lithe Instructors via Dominic Episcopo, Vogue Magazine, Nic D'Amico & Philadelphia Magazine

ME ON MONDAY (TRAVELING NANNY WANTED). 14 May 2012

My life is about to change.  I'll soon be splitting my time between Philly and NYC and I'm looking for someone really special who is willing to come along for the ride. 

I'm seeking an active, super-reliable, fun-loving, easy-going, experienced, full-time (Monday-Friday) caretaker for my little man.  She'll need a car and a clean driving record for play dates, trips to the zoo and music classes here in Philly, and also be willing to do some light traveling with Jordan and I between Philly and NYC once or twice a week (overnight).  Know someone awesome who fits the bill?  Contact me: lauren@lithemethod.com

Image of Lauren Boggi Goldenberg on Mother's Day via Instagram

WASPIE! 11 May 2012

I can't get enough of this class!  Waspie is classically Lithe, and it's one of our most effective workouts since 2009.  Stick with it in "T" (through our hip work at the end) and you'll achieve some serious results. 

Here are some images of my Wednesday, 4PM Waspie at Rittenhouse.  These ladies slayed it with perfect form and we're drenched by the end.  Latin Electronia really got them moving and shaking (Elvis Crespo's Suavamente, Gool (pleasure bar remix) by Bobby Brazil and  Jaleo's Truby Trio featuring concha bulks are a few of my favorites) from Waist Rotations through Swivels and Half Moons.  

Images of Lauren's Waspie at Rittenhouse on Wednesday at 4PM via Lauren

LITHE GIVEAWAY FRIDAY! 11 May 2012

Happy Friday!  This week we're giving away a five class package-perfect for a Lithe newbie or veteran ($95 value)!  For a chance to win, please visit our Facebook page, "Like us" and then leave a comment at the post.  A winner will be chosen at random tomorrow and the winner will be announced on Monday!  Good luck! 

Image of Lithe Instructors, Anne Falasco, Anna Marie Chang, MD (retired), Bari Rosenthal & Cori Tillman via Dominic Episcopo.

LITHE CARROT CAKE OATMEAL! 10 May 2012

We've been getting so many oatmeal requests and this is what we've come up with!  To be honest, I get pretty bored with plain old oats for breakfast, but I can't stop raving about how delicious and satisfying our new Lithe Foods Carrot Cake Oatmeal is -- just the perfect blend of steel-cut oats, carrots, walnuts, raisins, & spices!  Plus, get this, it has the "cream cheese" icing (ours is 100% vegan/dairy-free and made from health-boosting coconut and the natural sweetness of maple syrup).

The taste is totally indulgent, but the nutrition makes it guilt-free:  high in fiber, protein, healthy fats, & vitamins! If you enjoy oatmeal or carrot cake, you will go crazy for this dish.  It's perfect for breakfast or dessert!   

Ingredients:  oats, soy milk, carrots, walnuts, raisins, coconut manna, maple syrup, vanilla, sea salt, spices  260 Calories, 10g Fat, 48g Carbs (8g Fiber), 7g Protein  Price:  $5.00

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 9 May 2012

A long time Lither, Rosemary is my hero! When I began 4 years ago, I was a hot mess (and still am as exampled today in class when Lauren was actually concerned about me because of the tortured look of pain on my face). I would Lithe Stall constantly (still do)!  Yet, I would glance over my shoulder and Rosemary would be in Plyo number 29 with a look of serenity on her face that I was so envious of! Today, she continues to out perform me, even after 4 years of practice! She’s an inspiration, and here is 25 things you may not have know about her.

1. I was born and grew up in South Florida, but  was quick to leave for northern climes and headed to university in upstate New York. I was so excited to see snow for the first time, but the novelty has worn off even though I still love new snow.
2. I eschewed the fancy wedding scene and had a hippyish wedding with new found friends in the outdoors near Seattle with my attire being jeans.  This came after a summer of backpacking all over the west living out of a VW van with my soon to be husband.  Needless to say our families were scandalized.
3. I have 2 wonderful, talented children.  I introduced my daughter Leah to Lithe, and my son is getting married this June in Brooklyn.
4. My life has stretched from coast to coast. Growing up in the east, then deciding the west beckoned, and now again in the east.  Will Philly be my last stop?  Very unlikely.
5. I got to live on a houseboat on the ship canal in Seattle.  My husband named it Thyme for Rosemary. The sign is on our wall.
6. I never owned an umbrella while I was living there.
7. My daughter is a dancer and lives part of her time in India leaving her long hair chihuahua named Princess with us.
8. My first lithe class was when Northern Liberties was the only studio.  
9. Much earlier than Lithe, I was a follower of the Jane Fonda videos (but without thong leotards!!!).
10. I am a huge NPR fan and found touring the studio in DC as exciting as some people find Disneyland (a place I never intend to go).
11. I read the New Yorker every week.  
12. I am a follower of fashion and try to know what the new trends are even if I don’t follow them.  My style is still evolving.
13. My coffee is dark, strong and black.  
14. I love warm sands and blue oceans.  
15. I bake bread occasionally but did it weekly when I lived in Missoula, MT.
16. A trip to MOMA makes me happy.
17. My favorite décor is clean lines and modern.  My house however is very eclectic.
18. I like to get my own way, and can come up with many arguments about why I should.  
19. I hate snakes.  I am not too fond of palmetto bugs either.  I think dead ones smell like Jergens Lotion.  A remnant of my childhood in Florida.  
20. I love avocados but never touched them growing up with 2 avocado trees in my back yard. There also were unappreciated (by me) grapefruit and orange trees.  
21. My grandmother taught me to knit when I was a little girl.   I seem to always have a knitting project going, but not any rush to complete it.
22. My daughter wears my clothes and looks so much better in them than I do.
23. I am a total news and political junkie.  
24. One of my favorite movies of all time is Francois Truffaut’s Small Change.  I bet none of you have even heard of it.
25. I always want to know to know what is around the next corner.  

From the interactions I’ve had with Rosemary over the years, I can’t say that I’m surprised that she had the gumption to get married in jeans outside with some new friends. Go ‘head Rosemary! I know many of us could really benefit from a little of that spontaneity and guts in our lives! You’re an amazing, cool lady that truly exemplifies what it means to fit, hip and healthy!

See you in class!

Image via Samantha Stephens at Lithe Rittenhouse. 

LITHE HAPPIER MEAL! 9 May 2012

This really does make me happy!  No need to cave to those fast food cravings that weigh you down with guilt and grease.  Our new Lithe Happier Meal "burger & fries" will have you yearning for slow food (Lithe Escape style) instead.  

While traditional beef burgers are high in cholesterol, fat, and questionable additives, our Lithe Happier Meal "burger" is a vegan, gluten-free wonder filled with nutritious vegetables, whole grains, and ground raw sunflower seeds.  It's full of vitamin E, protein, fiber, healthy unsaturated fats, minerals, and phytonutrients.  The parsnip & sweet potato "fries" are packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, fiber, and potassium.  I'd argue they are even better than the "real" thing!  And, we didn't forget the classic condiment: ketchup!  Did you know traditional fast food ketchup is loaded with sugar, salt, and high fructose corn syrup?  Not ours!  Our homemade ketchup is low sugar, low sodium, and rich in heart-healthy lycopene.

Ingredients:  sunflower seeds, carrot, sweet potato, parsnip, brown rice, water, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, tomato, sun-dried tomato, apple cider vinegar, agave nectar, nutritional yeast, low sodium tamari, lettuce, alfalfa sprouts, basil, parsley, sea salt, spices  1 serving (= burger + fries + 2 Tbsp ketchup)  417 Calories, 16g Fat, 63g Carbs (12g Fiber), 10g Protein  Price:  $10  

 

LITHE LATTE! 9 May 2012

I am definitely a latte lover, but what I don't love about my daily coffee shop stop is the lack of nutrition, chemical sweeteners, and non-organic milk (hormones) filling up my cup.  The espresso does the trick for that quick energy boost, but the side effects from those not so healthy other ingredients leaves me feeling less than Lithe.  

So, I decided to create a skinny latte that's even better than what I can buy down the street.  After weeks of taste testing and tweaking, I am super excited to debut our Lithe Latte: a healthy, 100% vegan, dairy/lactose-free latte alternative! 

Our blend of soy milk, coconut milk, coconut manna, vanilla, and of course espresso provides the perfect caffeine pick-me-up (120mg caffeine* per serving) and satisfies my coffee craving with a smooth, creamy (shake it up!) and milky (but 100% vegan!) taste.  Plus, unlike my old traditional latte habit, this new Lithe version has espresso accessory ingredients with impressive nutritional benefits:

• Soy Milk is lactose free, hormone free, antioxidant rich, and high in protein.  In fact, a serving of soy milk contains just as much complete protein as a serving of cow’s milk.
• Coconut milk & coconut manna provide creamy taste and texture and are an incredible source of healthy fats & multi-chain fatty acids (MCFAs). MCFAs can help increase metabolism since they are sent directly to the liver and give the body an instant source of energy (instead of being stored like other fats). 

As some of you have seen on Instagram, I've been enjoying my Lithe Latte as an on-the-go breakfast or a midday pick-me-up snack.  I'm in a whole lotta love with this one!  Price:  $7.00

*Here's a caffeine comparison:  A typical store-bought iced latte (16oz) has 150mg caffeine.  A grande coffee from the big S-bucks has 330mg caffeine.  Guidelines say a healthy daily intake is 200-300mg max.

 

LITHE FOODS OPERATIONS MANAGER. 8 May 2012

The Lithe Foods Operations Manager acts as leader of the Lithe Foods (the “healthy" branch of Lithe) and oversees the day-to-day operations of a la carte & meal plan production; this person is key in facilitating effective communication between our production facility (Lithe Foods kitchen) and our point-of-sale (Lithe Method studios).

Part-time (Initially)

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Staff Management
• Inventory & Purchasing
• A La Carte Production Management
• Meal Plan Management
• Customer Service
  
• Nutrition & Quality Control
• Financial Operations & Budget

What’s Required?:

• Experience in food, nutrition and hospitality
• Prior managerial experience.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and Lithe's quality control standards
  
• Exceptional customer service skills.
• Superior interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain Lithe's Confidentiality Standards
• Highly organized with the ability to prioritize and juggle multiple tasks with tight deadlines.
• Ability to communicate clearly with kitchen staff, desk staff, clients and director management.
• Enthusiasm for healthy living and a passion for Lithe.
• Ability to work flexible/non-traditional hours (as early as 6AM and as late as 9PM)

Please submit resume to lithefoods@lithemethod.com

PART-TIME DESK STAFF (MAIN LINE). 8 May 2012

Part-time (Lithe Main Line)

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Provide high level hospitality and customer service to clients
• Be comfortable with computer database functions and other basic computer skills
• Have experience handling money and a register
• Be able to communicate clearly and efficiently via e-mail and telephone.
• Maintain the Lithe Method aesthetic and studio appearance
• Maintain the appearance and upkeep of Lithe’s retail (Lithe Foods & Lithe Wear)
• Assist Lithe’s Studio Manager in daily studio tasks and projects

What's Required?:

• Ability to prioritize and multi-task independently within a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to initiate tasks independently
• Excellent communication skills and superior organizational skills
• Outstanding customer service skills and confidentiality
• Friendly and professional email and phone etiquette
• Have a passion for healthy living and fitness
• Be willing to take (a minimum) of a few Lithe Method classes to better understand our brand.
• Flexible schedule - Must have weekend, Evening ( as late as 9:00PM), Holiday, AND SOME EARLY MORNING (5:45AM) weekday availability.

Please submit resume to Krista@lithemethod.com

GOT LITHE ENDVY™? 8 May 2012

Working on that Lithe Booty?  Honestly, any Lithe workout will do it (Hello, Skinny Jeans!).  Wanna kick it up a notch and really hone in on your assests this month?  Try a combination of Sweet Cheeks, Tight-End, Short Shorts, Watershed, Walk-Star and our all new Lithe Endvy™ workout, coming soon!

Image of Lithe Instructors, Kelly Wong and Shannon Graham wearing Lithe's Ultra Support Performance Bra & new supplex Curstey Capri's and Endvy ™ Leggings (coming soon!) via Dom.

 

TWITTER TUESDAYS! 8 May 2012

Tweet with us and win!  Here's what you have to do:

Start following http://twitter.com/lithemethod if you're not doing so already.  Then follow @lithemethod & retweet "I'm Lithe!” @lithemethod  to win a Lithe  5 class card.

We'll announce the winner on the @lithemethod Twitter page. Remember, all entries must be received by 11:59 pm/et on 5/8/2012. Limit one entry per day per person/twitter address.  Check out the rules here. 

Image of Lithe Instructor, Cori Tillman via Dominic Episcopo

ME ON MONDAY (LITTLE MISS UNHEALTHY). 7 May 2012

Last week was total, utter insanity.  My 86-year-old grandmother passed away after a long fight with cancer (more on that later) and I opened studio number 4.  A death and a birth all in one week.  When it rains, it pours; Lithe’s Main Line studio opened on the day of my Mom Mom's funeral (of course).  By Saturday, I felt like someone should have forced me into rehab for “severe exhaustion.”  

Not only was I mentally and physically drained from saying goodbye to my grandmother, stress, looming deadlines, working 15-18 hour days and making time for Mars, I put absolutely no thought into what I was feeding my body.  My fridge at home was empty and I skipped out on Lithe Foods.  Not thinking or planning for myself, I grabbed whatever was around, snacked on Haribo, drank lots of Starbucks by day, Prosecco by night, barely ate breakfast and dined out every night of the week.  I even allowed myself to become so hungry that I made a desperate trip to Wendy’s.  I’m usually not like this.  I never deprive myself, but I’m the one with the cooler bag in my car filled with healthy choices.  I live for our fresh-pressed juice, healthy foods and I never allow myself to run on empty. 

All last week I had headaches and now I’m sick with a cold, rundown and my energy is terrible.  I can't remember the last time I felt this way (college?) and it has made me think of some of you, which has inspired me to offer a new and improved Lithe "10" this June.  Needing a big dose of my own medicine, I picked up my Lithe detox tonight and I start tomorrow. Follow me here and on our Lithe Foods Facebook page.  Anyone with me?  

Image of Lauren Boggi Goldenberg & Carrie Gero (last week) at Alla Spina via Instagram

LITHE HIBISCUS SANGRIA! 7 May 2012

Here's number two in our Lithe-tail series!  Sangria, is a delicious, fruit-based "punch" that's typically made with red wine, fresh seasonal fruit and bubbly water. Our version is made with far less sugar and Lithe-friendly Hibiscus! 

The whole world drinks Hibiscus tea and I fell in love with it the first time I had Aqua de Jamaica on Lithe Escape. We’ve added seasonal, fresh-pressed orange, lime and ginger (and cubed apple and orange for authenticity and sweetness!) all while keeping it under 100 calories. 

Drink as a mock-tail or add red wine to this healthy mixer. Hibiscus is not only beautiful and delicious but it has numerous health benefits:  

• It lowers blood pressure, LDL cholesterol levels and your risk of heart disease.
• it’s rich in antioxidants (such as vitamin C) that protect us from cancer.
• It’s high in electrolytes (perfect post-Lithe)
• It gets things moving:  it’s a diuretic and a mild laxative
• When you consume hibiscus tea after the meal, it assists in breaking down starch and sugar.
  
• Drink post-Lithe:  It has a cooling effect and acts as a natural body refrigerant.

SUNDAY CLASSES & BROAD STREET RUN! 4 May 2012

Heads up, Lithers! If you are headed to class this Sunday, you may want to give yourself some extra time to get there.

Sunday morning is the Broad Street Run, a yearly 30,000+ race straight down broad street. While it’s great to see so many active Philadelphians, the closure of Broad Street from the early morning to the early afternoon means you may need to be creative with the route you take to the studio, and your parking options. Expect delays and detours, and consider jumping on public transportation (or walking!).

Image of Lithe Instructor, Kelly Wong wearing Lithe's Curtsey Capri's

LITHE GIVEAWAY FRIDAY! 4 May 2012

Happy Friday!  This week we're giving away a ten class package-perfect for a Lithe newbie or veteran ($180 value)!  For a chance to win, please visit our Facebook page, "Like us" and then leave a comment at the post.  A winner will be chosen at random tomorrow and the winner will be announced on Monday!  Good luck! 

Image of Lithe Instructors, Heather Burt (retired) and Liz Galbally in Hot Legs via Dominic Episcopo.

LITHE MAIN LINE IS OPEN! 3 May 2012

We’re so excited to be able to finally show you our new Main Line studio space – it’s beautiful, and we know you are all going to love it.  However, we’re still in a soft opening stage and we are very much still a work in progress.  Please be patient with us while we smooth out the details of the space.  Looking forward to posting our final images in a few days!

A couple of things to know for your classes this week:

-   Pay attention to parking.

-   We'll have no loaner gloves until next week.

-   The showers will be up and running by Sunday.

-   Our lockers will be installed within the next two weeks.

-   Lithe Foods will be available starting Monday, May 14th!

-   Lithe Wear will be available sometime within the next few days.

-   Our phone line will be up and running tomorrow.  In the meantime, continue to call Lithe Old City (215-625-4919).

Our waiting areas are not yet as comfortable as we would like, and we wish you would have full access to the shower facilities, but our mat room is clean, ready to go, and stunning and we wanted to make sure we can offer you the classes we promised this week.  We’ll keep you updated on the showers and other details as the week progresses. 

Images via Lauren's iphone & Instagram

 

STUDIO ETIQUETTE. 2 May 2012

It's a busy time of year!  Just a friendly reminder so that everyone has a great experience at Lithe.  As we expand and open up the doors to our new Main Line studio, you will see our code of conduct posted on the walls and our new, updated website.

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 2 May 2012

The new Main Line studio is finally opening tomorrow to the joy of our fellow Lithers who have made the commute to one of the 3 city studios for months now. Learn a little about Chrissy Lauletta, who will be helping Mainliners with all of their Lithe needs and questions as she wo-mans the front desk as Studio Manager at the new suburban Lithe outpost.

1. Very few people call me Chrissy. I usually go by either Parker or Izzy. Izzy is courtesy of my 11 year old nephew, Alex, who couldn't pronounce Chrissy when he was a baby.
2. I am the 2nd oldest of 7 and, as cheesy as it sounds, the oldest 3 are my best friends.
3. I have a South African Mastiff that weighs 10lbs less than me, and is the biggest baby in the world. I always cave and let him sleep with me.
4. My favorite food is ice cream, but i try to be good and stick with 'fro-yo'.
5. I'm somewhat of a foodie (hence the majority of my 25 things being about food), but a simple grilled cheese with tomato will always be one of my top choices.
6. I don't cook but I'll challenge anyone on the art of hard boiling the perfect egg. I eat them for breakfast with hot sauce several times a week.
7.  I have a 'no man left behind' rule when I go out for sushi.
8. I love to travel, and spent a month in Costa Rica touring several different parts of the country.  My favorite was Tamarindo Beach on the northeast coast.
9. My dream for my next trip is to travel through Italy.
10. I hate flying. Be careful if you ever sit next to me on a plane because I will squeeze your hand so tight it will be several pretty shades of purple.
11. I wore pink on my wedding day.
12. I drink my weight in ounces of water every single day, but I have to have coffee at least twice a day.
13. When I ask you how your day is I really, truly want to know the answer. I'd rather listen, but if you ask me anything, I'm an open book.
14. I'm afraid of heights...and spiders. In fact, I just had to relocate seats bc there is one staring at me and no one is around to capture it.
15. I passed up an art scholarship to study art therapy at a small college in the mountains in Virginia.
16. I have a social work degree, but have been in sales since my first job out of college.
17. My “backyard" in the city was horse stables up until construction took over a few weeks ago.
18. I HAVE to watch something happy before I go to sleep at night and boycott scary movies at all costs.
19. Apparently, I find myself funnier than most people find me to be. For example, I'm reading this out loud and I'm the only one cracking up.
20. Outside of Lithe studios, you'll rarely see me wearing anything other than heels.
21. A career dream I've had for as long as I can remember is to be a personal stylist.22. I recently started a list of '100 things I want to do before I die'. I've come up with #59 so far.
23. One of the things I'm most excited to check off is designing my own house to be built one day.
24. I've checked off 11 so far.
25. If I ever have to leave the city (which I hope is never), and move to the burbs, I want a house with a wrap around front porch and horses in my backyard again.

I’m with you on the flying thing Chrissy. I watched La Bamba when I was little, and that did it for me. Been petrified of flying ever since, but I do it. Thank goodness getting to your Mainline desk requires little aviation. It’s good to know there’s a place to Lithe and a friendly face if us city Lithers every find ourselves out on the Mainline.

See you in class!

Image of Chrissy Lauletta at Lithe Old City via Lauren

MAY SCHEDULES! 1 May 2012

 

Just four weeks until Memorial Day!  We've tweaked the schedules so you're Lithing right for bikini season.  Mindbody will be up-to-date by end of day and schedules will go into effect this week!

Download Old City May

Download Rittenhouse May

Download Mainline May

Download Liberties Walk May

Image of Lithe Instructor, Shannon Graham wearing Lithe via Dom

THE DL ON LITHE'S IMMERSION! 30 Apr 2012

We've always said that Lithe's Immersion IS the best way to learn how to Lithe and achieve long-term results.    Read one BWP intern's honest account (we had no idea she was even reviewing us) on Be Well Philly! 

Image via Dominic Episcopo

ME ON MONDAY {NINE}. 30 Apr 2012

 

Mars is nine months old today!  Here are nine things I've learned about myself, motherhood and babies over the past nine months:

1.  I never could imagine that I’d love having a son as much as I do.  Little boys are the best. 

2.  I’m proud that I haven’t lost myself.

3.  Patience. 

4.  Nine months up, Nine months down is 100% true.  Prior to having a baby, I never believed it and I thought  that I would be an exception to the rule. 

5.  Time flies like never before.

6.  I have mad respect for single mothers and stay-at-home moms.   

7.  Love has taken on a whole new meaning and it’s unexplainable. 

8.  I’m still selfish.

9.  It’s not that gross to touch poop.

Impromptu image of Jordan, Lauren & Mars at the last lithe photoshoot via Dom

LITHE MAIN LINE PARKING. 30 Apr 2012

 

We're softly opening this week!  Here are the details on where to park (and where NOT to park) at our newest Lithe studio at Haverford Place:

We have four, labeled and dedicated Lithe Method parking spaces in the back of the studio.  These are available to everyone on a first come, first serve basis (no saving spots).  Please do not park in the other businesses dedicated spots; We've been told that you will be towed within 15 minutes.  Same goes for Haverford Square. 

There is ample, affordable metered street parking on Lancaster Ave, Old Railroad Avenue and on Berkley & Haverford Station Rd.  Stay tuned for studio pictures and information on our opening day!

Images via Lauren

 

ADDITIONAL MAIN LINE IMMERSION! 27 Apr 2012

Our evening Main Line Immersion is sold out, so we're adding a lunchtime course on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 12:15PM beginning on May 15th!

If our three week Immersion course doesn't work for you, you can opt to take our Lithe 101 classes. Call 215-545-5144 (Rittenhouse) or 215-625-4919 (Old City) to purchase and register for our Center City or Main Line Immersion.

Image of Lither, Jackie Obeso Kunkel wearing Lithe Wear via Dominic Episcopo

LITHE GIVEAWAY FRIDAY! 27 Apr 2012

Happy Friday!  This week we're giving away a five class package-perfect for a Lithe newbie or veteran ($95 value)!  For a chance to win, please visit our Facebook page, "Like us" and then leave a comment at the post.  A winner will be chosen at random tomorrow and the winner will be announced on Monday!  Good luck! 

Image of Lithe Instructor, Melissa Weinberg via Dominic Episcopo.

LITHE SPIRIT! 26 Apr 2012

 

In my opinion, this is one Lithe workout that is so underrated.  Lithe's Spirit is unique, so effective and it's quintessentially Lithe.  Tough AND Fun is what we do best.  CCS on the mat, tuck jumps, star explosions, marios...You'll burn at least 700 calories and smile the entire time.  Want to know more?  Read Sayeh's take on it!

I sat in on Carrie's 11:00AM Wednesday Spirit at Old City and the room was on fire!  LM2 Reggae Dancehall (Collie's Bermuda Mix Tape (Defend Your Own) and Assasin's Don't Like You (Applause Riddim) are two of my faves) was blasting and all the girls were working their butts off (literally). 

Images of Lithe Instructor, Carrie Gero and Lithers, Danielle Ingerman and Laurie Leas Goldenberg via Lauren

I'M LOVING. 25 Apr 2012

 

 

In no particular order:  Local, PA Dutch Koko Bucks hot cereal, Mars at 9 months {Via Dom}, Scout & Catalogue's Friendship Bracelet, By Boe's Cord Ring, Philly's own Whoopie Pies by Coco Love Homeade and Isabel Marant's cotton tye-dye jersey dress {via Net-a-porter}

INSPIRATION. 25 Apr 2012

Images via Pinterest

TWITTER TUESDAYS! 24 Apr 2012

Tweet with us and win!  Here's what you have to do:

Start following http://twitter.com/lithemethod if you're not doing so already & Tweet @lithemethod your answer to: “Why do you want to try the new #LitheFoods Detox Plan menu?” for your chance to win a Detox Plan ($225 value). 

We'll announce the winner on the @lithemethod Twitter page. Remember, all entries must be received by 11:59 pm/et on 4/24/2012. Limit one entry per day per person/twitter address.  Check out the rules here. 

Image of Lithe Foods via Stuart Goldenberg

 

 

KELLY WONG. 23 Apr 2012

From: Danville, CA (SF Bay Area)

Favorite City: Monterey, CA. I get all flutter-hearted when I think about being there. On a high school biology field trip, I fell in love with (and into) the tide pools. Maybe it was the otters, the seals, or maybe Steinbeck's Cannery Row, but something left a mark on me, so I got married on the Monterey Bay.  I hope to move there when I retire (or sooner).

Enjoys: Exploring new countries through food (I love perusing grocery aisles to see what the locals eat), baking, wearing bright colors, the weekly surprise of opening a CSA box, lithing, yoga, dessert wine, cooking with friends and family, painting, and taking Saturday morning strolls through Rittenhouse Square to the farmers' market with my husband (Mike) and two rescue mutts (Tommy and Zuzu).

Favorite Lithe Exercise: Rockette kicks. Talk about a total body exercise! They are so energizing and the perfect opportunity to give it your all.

Other Job: Nurse Practitioner. I spend a large part of my workday coaching people about how to take better care of themselves. This comes easily now that I am a regular lither. 

How'd she land a spot on the Lithe team?:  Kelly is fierce!  She has killer strength, knowledge, stamina, perfect form and she is such a natural teacher. I love that she is fearless and such a perfectionist (two things that make a great instructor!) and I know that you'll all love her classes.  We're all thrilled to have her on the team!

What you wouldn't know just by looking at her: My days usually begin and end with a cup of tea.  My sister and I dream of opening a tea shop together. I love being by the sea. I majored in Marine Biology, was a coxswain for UCLA Crew, studied coral reefs in Australia, and got certified in advanced SCUBA diving, despite not being a very good swimmer!  I am a treehugger at heart. Until I have the space to raise chickens and grow a vegetable garden, I'll stick to houseplants (we have 30 in our apartment!), worm composting and volunteering at urban farms. Growing up, I was shy and small so I didn't play sports.  Eventually, I relinquished the idea that being small meant I couldn't be fierce and took up Muay Thai boxing.  But ultimately, I recognized that I'm a lover, not a fighter, so I tried running. Sadly, I had to get surgery for a foot injury, which set me back (and on my duff) for 2 years. The silver lining: I learned to respect my feet, found barefoot training, and regained balance and strength with yoga and lithing. Now my foot is in full effect and I have a 2" scar that reminds me every day to be grateful for a healthy body and to keep trying new things because I can. This year, I'm taking on rock climbing!

Image of Lithe Instructor, Kelly Wong wearing Lithe's Ultra Support Performance Bra via Dom

GET LITHE! 20 Apr 2012

Want to know the best way to learn how to Lithe?  We currently have a few spots open in our award-winning May Immersion courses:

Rittenhouse:  Monday & Wednesday (begins on Monday), 5.7.12 at 8:15PM

Main Line:  Tuesday & Thursday (begins on Tuesday), 5.8.12 at 7:00PM

Old City:  Tuesday & Thursday (begins on Tuesday), 5.8.12 at 7:00PM 

If our three week Immersion course doesn't work for you, you can opt to take  Lithe 101 classes. Call 215-545-5144 (Rittenhouse) or 215-625-4919 (Old City) to purchase and register for our Center City or Main Line Immersion.

Image of Lithe Instructors, Kelly Wong and Shannon Graham wearing Lithe Wear via Dominic Episcopo