Life

My Favorite obé Fitness Classes for Kids

It goes without saying that we are in a very stressful time. The number one way that I deal with stress is through exercising. My kids see me doing it everyday, and little by little, they’ve wanted to join in on the fun. I’ve also noticed it’s helped ease some of their anxiety as well.

As we go through these next few months spending a lot of time indoors and a lot of it with the unknown ahead of us, I wanted to share some of my favorite kid-friendly workouts (they are really all kid-friendly, but these are the ones my kids have done and love) from obé fitness, my absolute favorite fitness app that has both live and over 4,000 replay classes. If you and your kids love being active, then you’ll love obé. All three kids are obésessed. Harlan has taken both of my obé sweatshirts so she can wear them to school, they’ve gotten to know each instructor through these classes, and best of all, they’ve even gotten a chance to step inside the box. obé is much more than just a fitness app, it’s a community where all are welcome. Yes, even your kids.

So here’s the list! I’ve broken them down by category and tried to put somewhat of a description with it. This is will an on-going list and updated as much as I can. So if you have a favorite, make sure to reach on on IG @laurenjimeson and I’ll add it! 🙂

Dance Cardio: These classes require no equipment and are a fun way to get you heart rate up. Some of the instructors put choreography in their dance classes, while others just get down and give you their best dance moves to get active, either way, they are so much fun and really exciting for kids.

Your kids favorite music with some fun dance moves! This class from Walter was specifically designed for kids of all ages to enjoy! Find it here.

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Sam’s smile is will brighten anyone’s day! Let them be a pop star and they will love dancing it out with her with their favorite kidz bop songs! Find it here.

Emily’s “Cheer” inspired dance class (choreography). Find it here.

Emily’s “Nutcracker” inspired ballet class (choreography). Find it here.

Kathryn, Sarah, and Michelle teach you how to kick like a Rockette! Find it here.

Sarah Dance Cardio (some choreography). Find it here.

Peter and Katie have the best energy together and there is no doubt you will have a smile on your face this entire class. (no choreography). Find it here.

Michelle Dance Cardio (no choreography). Find it here.

Emily’s ballet dance class (choreography). Find it here.

Ricky Sisters All Choreo Dance Class (this one is a bit longer in length bc they teach you an entire dance). Find it here.

Kathryn Dance Cardio (no choreography). Find it here.


Sam gives us her bright smile and some fun choreography with this dance class. (some choreography) Find it here.

Everyone loves a themed dance! Emily gives you a bad romance themed dance class! Costume and all! Find it here.

Dance HIIT: These classes require no equipment and are great for those that love dance but also love to level up with a good high intensity move.

My kids had so much fun in this class with Kathryn. So many dance moves they already know (like flossing) are done with some fun HIIT moves in between. Find it here.

Walter has the best energy and will make you laugh and smile the entire way through. His passion for what he does shines through his classes. Find it here.

This class with Walter was specifically done with kids in mind! Find it here.

Strength: Light weights and a band are needed for some of these. A great option for kids to hold onto is water bottles or soup cans!

obé teamed up with kidz bop for a specific kids themed class with kidz bop music! The girls LOVE this one! No equipment required! Find it here.

Another kidz bop favorite with Sam! Find it here.

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Life

The Fitness Junkie’s Gift Guide

If you frequent my Instagram feed, it’s hard to not notice how much of a fitness enthusiast I am. It’s something that I do everyday to keep me healthy both mentally and physically. Working out on a regular basis has helped me get a little bit of me back. I’ve been stuck in “mom mode” for so long that I was beginning to forget what it felt like to do something for myself. And now that I am, it feels really good.

If you’re the slightest bit interested in working out or already work out and are looking for some new gear, I thought I’d share some of my favorites.

  1. Bala Bangles – I use the 2lb ones when I am doing any sculpt work. They are great for both your wrists and ankles. | 2. Resistance Bands – Hands down one of the best pieces of equipment you can have. They’re inexpensive, easy to travel with, and give you such an amazing burn. | 3. YETI Water bottle – I use this all the time because it keeps my ice frozen and water really cold. | 4. Jumpsport Trampoline – This was a splurge for me, but I am absolutely in love and use it multiple times a week. It’s great for a low impact, high intensity workout and it is so much FUN! | 5. Weights – These are inexpensive and a durable set of weights. They are easy to tuck away when not in use. | 6. obé Membership – Joining obé has been life-changing. They offer a variety of 28 minute live workouts, have an amazing community, incredible instructors, and two founders who treat every member as a part of their family. It’s much cheaper than a gym membership or even one class in the city. You can use code LAUREN30 for a free week trial and 30% off your first month. | 7. AK Mat – I use a mat all the time when I’m working out and Amanda Kloots just came out with this travel mat. It’s foldable and easy to take with you. | 8. Apple Watch – Another splurge I got myself this year that I am obsessed with. I love tracking my workouts and find it super convenient and stylish. | 9. Jump Rope – This is a great piece of equipment that is easy to travel with and gives you a killer cardio workout. Just 10 minutes can really build up a sweat. | 10. Dagne Dover Landon Carryall – So I technically don’t go to the gym, but I do love a bag that I can travel with and is great for holding all of the equipment. This bag is stylish and spacious and perfect for overnight trips. | 11. Sliders – These are inexpensive and are really great for a Pilates style workout at home. It’s amazing what you can do with a pair of these! | 12. APL Techloom Bliss – These are the only shoes that I workout in. They are super easy to slip on, are lightweight, and are super comfortable. I’d buy a millions pairs of these if I could. | 13. Carbon 38 Crop Tank – This is a lightweight tanks that’s super easy to throw on after a workout so you can just walk out of the house without the need to change. I have this in several colors. | 14. Soft Sweatshirt – I wear this nearly everyday because it’s so soft. It’s a bit pricier for a sweatshirt, but you’ll know why when you feel how soft it is. I basically live in it. | 15. Joylab Leggings – I know how expensive good workout clothing can be. If you’re not looking to pay a lot, but want a durable and comfortable pair of leggings (that won’t fall down at the waist) I’d recommend JoyLab leggings. I love their seamless collection. I’ve had multiple pairs for over a year and they are still in really great shape and haven’t stretched out. | 16. Carbon 38 Takara Leggings – a stylish pair of leggings that will definitely make you stand out in a crowd. I always want to feel good while I’m working out and these definitely accomplish that. | 17. All Access – This is hands-down my favorite athletic wear brand. They are the softest material that will hold everything in and are extremely comfortable. If I only could buy one brand of workout gear, All Access would be it. | 18. Old Navy Leggings – Another brand of leggings that are affordable, durable, and stylish. | 19. Alala – I discovered Alala this year and love all of their athletic wear and the message behind their company. It’s a woman-run company that promotes inclusivity. What’s not to love?

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Style

Why It’s Important to Invest In Your Skincare Routine

It’s hard to admit this, but the first time in my entire life that I’ve ever visited a dermatologist was about six weeks ago. I know. It’s not something I’m super proud of, but I wanted to share that it’s never too late to start taking care of your skin.

It’s interesting, but my anxiety was what initially brought me to make an appointment with a dermatologist. I’d followed a local dermatologist, Modern Dermatology, on Instagram for a while and they put up an IG story about it being skin cancer awareness month and prompted us to come in and get our skin checked by one of their doctors. I took this simple Instagram story and let my mind wander with it. Unfortunately with anxiety, your mind can easily go to places that you never want it to go. I’d convinced myself that because of the many years I’d spent at tanning beds and not wearing sunscreen while going outside, that I’d must have some form of skin cancer. Rather than dwell on it and force myself into an anxiety attack, I made an appointment with Dr. Robinson at Modern Dermatology for a skin check. To some, that might not seem like a big deal, but for those of you who are familiar with anxiety and avoid doctors in fear of the worst (like myself,) this was a huge step for me. Thankfully it paid off and the skin check went great without need to worry.

I’m going to take this moment to do a little PSA to tell you to go get your skin checked.

While I was at the office I thought I’d take the opportunity to let Dr. Robinson know about the problems I’d been having with adult acne. After evaluating my skin, we realized it was a combination of hormones, the sweat from my workout routine, and my lack of skin self-care.

Ready to finally start taking care of my skin (and realizing I am indeed getting older and want to preserve what I can for now,) I told Dr. Robinson I was ready to invest in products that would help. She recommended products and a routine that would help get my skin back on track.

“We all want to blame our parents for our skincare woes, but the reality is roughly 80% of how our skin ages is in our control – determined by lifestyle choices we make everyday. This includes things like sun exposure and smoking, but also the skincare products you use (or don’t!). I always like to stress to my patients that its never too late to make improvements to your skincare routine and lifestyle – our skin is really resilient when we treat it well!”

I wanted to wait and share these products with you until I had the adequate amount of time to try out this new skincare routine to see how it affected my skin. Not only did it help tremendously with my acne, but I’ve also noticed my skin has a more even tone and a nice glow. I also want to point out that it’s not cheap to invest in good skincare products. I’ve always been one to go to the nearest drugstore and get whatever. And to be honest, I cried a bit inside after purchasing these products at first, but now that I see the difference in my skin, I can genuinely stay it’s worth every penny.

I’m going to share my skincare routine (in order from AM and PM) that Dr. Robinson created for me. I can honestly say it’s been a game changer.

AM Routine:

CLn Facial Cleanser

As soon as I wake up, I’ll use this to wash my face. I also use it as soon as I am finished working out. It’s best for sensitive and acne-prone skin. I really love how gentle it is. Just one pump is all you need, which is nice because the bottle lasts awhile. It’s super gentle on my skin and doesn’t dry it out.

Price: $35

Pure Bioderm Antioxidant Super Serum

I put this on my face every morning right after I wash and dry my face. It has a blend of antioxidants, including Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, Phloretin, and Peptides which help provide protection from environmental toxins. I’ve definitely noticed as I get older, my skin is changing and isn’t quite as smooth as it used to be, so very thankful this serum helps with premature fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation from sun and age related dark spots. One pump of this and it’s enough for your entire face. It’s super lightweight and not greasy.

Price: $65

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

I’ve long been a fan of Supergoop products. I have a range of their products that I’ve used for a number of years. When they first came out with their Unseen Sunscreen I was excited to try it. It’s oil-free and goes on weightless. I love that it feels soft on my skin and it giving me the sun protection I need at the same time. It has SPF 40 protection against everything: UVA, UVB, blue light, infrared. It’s a perfect solution as a makeup primer as well.

Price: $32

PM Routine:

As mentioned in my morning routine, I always wash my face with the CLn Facial before moving on to a moisturizer. I have two different moisturizers I use. One is a retinoid base product and the other is more of a daily moisturizer.

Skinbetter Science Rejuvenate Intensive Alpharet Overnight Cream

A few months ago I almost gave botox a try because I was noticing more forehead wrinkles. At the time, I was completely unaware of how much upkeep you are required to do. It was then that I quickly changed my mind (I couldn’t commit to the upkeep) and decided I’d try alternatives until the Botox was completely necessary. I asked Dr. Robinson for something I could use that would help with anti-aging. She suggested a retinoid product. I use the AlphaRet overnight cream a couple times a week. The cream helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles while also providing moisture in my skin. Just one pump is enough for the full face and neck. This is probably my most expensive cream, but the bottle does last me a long time and it’s completely worth it if I can avoid paying for Botox for a few more years.

Price: $120

Tatcha The Water Cream

I spent a lot of time doing research on moisturizers. I knew they are typically expensive, but I also didn’t want to waste my money on a product that was only hype. After doing research and speaking with Dr. Robinson about what should and should not be in my moisturizer, I narrowed it down to a few and went to our local Sephora to get samples. I immediately fell in love with The Water Cream. It really does feel like water going on your skin and is not oily or sticky at all. It glides on very easily and a little dollop goes a long way. It’s well worth both the hype and is moderately priced compared to others on the market.

Price: $68

Restorsea Pro Lipmagic

I have VERY dry lips. They are constantly peeling and cracking. While I drink a lot of water during the day, dry lips run in the family. I’ve tried many many lips products and had yet to find something that worked until I found Restorsea. Active ingredient Aquabeautine XL helps get your lips softer, smoother, and more defined. This has been a serious game changer for my lips.

Price: $35

SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense

This has quickly become my very favorite product of all time and is worth every single penny. I’ve told so many people about this product. Yes, it’s that good. I don’t use this every night, but if I do have the occasional breakout due to hormones or stress, just put a dab of this on the zit and it will make it go away very quickly. When Dr. Robinson was telling me about it, I was a bit skeptical it could work as quickly as she said it would, but it really does. It is an acid blend combines 2% dioic acid with an optimal alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid formulation to reduce the formation of acne and clogged pores. It immediately dries that zit out and many times it will be barely visible in the morning. Not only does it help zap away the zit, but it also while improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. This stuff is like liquid gold.

Price: $95

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