Ready to Run: Chicago Marathon Countdown

You never thought it would get here, but now October 9 is looming in sight. All those miles, all the sweat and it’s almost time to run your 26.2 miles. Nervous? Of course! So here are a few last minute tips from veteran runner and North Shore running coach, Christy Coughlin. Get ready to run! […]

The Benefits of Canine Hydrotherapy

If your pooch is recuperating from surgery or struggling to lose weight, you may want to dog paddle your way to a canine hydrotherapy center. There are many benefits to canine hydrotherapy, or low-impact, warm water swimming but the main goal is to strengthen the muscles and joints of a dog, says Dr. Katherine Hillebrand, […]

Fresh: Fit Girl Studio in Evanston

Wish all your favorite exercise classes were available under one roof? So did Oak Brook native Michelle Pretekin—she recently opened Fit Girl Studio in Evanston, offering a variety of one-hour classes in spinning, yoga and the oh-so-hot-right-now barre. So, if you love those three, it’s a one-stop shop, and an easy way to enjoy a […]

Get Thin, By Thinking Like a European

Wander the streets of Paris, Milan, or Barcelona, and check out the thin, fit locals. Europeans enjoy cream sauces, ample breads and pastas, and don’t skimp on meats, cheeses or desserts. How is it that they stay so thin? Here are a few observations about the eating and cultural habits that make a difference in […]

Healthy Obsession: Fencing

Shawn Smith can tell you a thing or two about fencing.   First introduced to fencing in the sixth grade, Smith went on to become a member of New Trier’s fencing team and then fenced at Michigan State. Today, Smith is back to his roots as the fencing coach at New Trier High School’s Extension […]

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.   Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, but luckily women have an increased chance of surviving ovarian cancer if it is caught in the early stages. Women should educate themselves on the symptoms and warning signs of ovarian cancer. If you or […]

Healthy Obsession: Pilates

Step into Suzanne Danilek’s Pilates class and it’s apparent that she has true passion for the sport. While Pilates has been around for some time, Danilek puts her own spin on her classes: emphasizing music and incorporating ballet, props, and muscular structure movements. We asked Danilek what Pilates is all about and what distinguishes her […]

Fresh: Foster Family

Four local partners have collaborated to open Foster Dance Studios.   They are: Artistic Director Ronn Stewart, a Joffrey teacher and longtime dancer; Sarah Goldstone, a Juilliard grad and a Chicago dancer; along with Kathryn Ebert of Evanston and Sally H. Turner of Wilmette. The studio will offer a wide variety of classes for all […]

Is Chocolate Heart Healthy?

We love a study that says chocolate is good for your health. That’s why we wanted to share this one with you—according to The New York Times, a piece published in the British Medical Journal, by Dr. Oscar H. Franco, says that high levels of chocolate consumption are related to a “significant reduction in the […]

Sports Bras for Your Active Life

Arguably the most important piece of sports equipment is … your sports bra! Active women need good support to prevent sagging or pain. During exercise, your girls move up and down, side to side, and in and out. Today’s sports bras offer great fabrics and fits for all shapes, sizes and activities. Proper Fit According […]