Kait Vadenais

BodyTek Weston celebrated their Grand Opening on October 6 as the fifth location of the high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and circuit training gym, BodyTek Fitness.Clients of all fitness levels can expect challenging, full body workouts at BodyTek Weston. Classes incorporate an assortment of equipment including free weights, kettlebells, battle ropes, and TRX suspension trainers, and during the hour-long workout, participants are led by motivating instructors who provide guided assistance to help achieve personal fitness goals.This studio is designed for class sizes up to 24 clients and classes are scheduled daily from 5:30 am to 9:00 pm. The bright, clean atmosphere, combined with a fun mashup of music will help you get the most out of your workout. BodyTek Weston also promises that no two classes will ever be the same.Studio Manager, Stephanie Torrealba says she loves that the workout is still challenging, even after consistently coming to BodyTek for about five years."You never know what the trainers have in store for the workout but you know that you will walk out with an amazing hour of work," said Torrealba.Your first class is free at all of BodyTek's locations across south Florida.BodyTek Weston is located at 1324 SW 160th Ave, Weston, FL, and you can follow their studio on Instagram @bodytekweston.

The Australian fitness chain F45, where the “F” stands for “functional training” and the “45” is for the “total time” of the workout, has been popping up across South Florida this year, with the latest location opening its doors in Plantation. Everything from the walls, to the equipment, matches the blue, red, black, and white branding.The gym is clean and bright, and the floor is already setup for class each day. Before class begins, trainers demonstrate each exercise, offering modifications for all fitness levels. In addition, looping videos of each exercise play on screens at the front of the room so members always know what they should be doing. A timer counts down the circuit and buzzes loudly when it is time to switch stations.F45 has 27 different workouts that are programmed, using a combination of over 3,000 exercises so members are always experiencing a different workout. Some days will be more cardio-based, others will be resistance focused, and still others are a mix of the two.The trainers circulate the room throughout the workout, keeping the energy high, correcting form when needed, and challenging members to get out of their comfort zones. Overall, F45 is a very efficient workout and the layout is very clear even for a first-timer."I decided to invest in our F45 Training facility since the program changed my life," said franchise owner Ian Hochman. "I used to be 260 pounds, and now I am down to 185 with the help of trainers, challenges and support from members."F45 celebrated their grand opening on Saturday, October 6, and are letting all potential members sign-up for a free, two week trial.F45 Plantation is located at 801 S University Dr, Unit M-104, Plantation, FL and you can follow their studio on Instagram @f45_training_plantation.

Over the past decade, RSP Nutrition has evolved with the modern consumer, establishing itself as a top brand in both the sports nutrition and health and wellness space. Based right here in Miami, RSP Nutrition has the goal of providing products that are not only made of clean, proven ingredients but are also convenient and effective.

Started in 2008 by former collegiate athlete Victor Davanzo, RSP Nutrition filled a gap in the market for healthy, everyday wellness needs. Prior to launching the company, Davanzo could only find supplements with unnatural or dangerous ingredients. RSP Nutrition aimed to bring clean, nutritional products for active people and fitness enthusiasts while never compromising quality or convenience. Even 10 years ago, Davanzo recognized that people were focusing more on natural food and that performance training was no longer just for athletes.

"RSP products are designed and crafted to be all-in-one solutions to someone's path to physical achievements," said Kevin Escalera, the Digital Marketing Director at RSP Nutrition. "These achievements look different to everyone but RSP's products can improve everyone's performance."

RSP Nutrition has a full line-up of products to meet your needs whether your goal is energy, recovery, building muscle, or just general health and wellness. There is TrueFit, their all-in-one grass-fed protein that includes fruits and veggies, prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and healthy fats, and TrueFit Shake, which is a portable meal replacement. AminoLean is RSP's pre-workout with natural caffeine, zero calories, and zero sugar. (The pink lemonade flavor is delicious!) AvoCollagen combines hydrolyzed collagen peptides with avocado oil. And those are just a few of their best-sellers.

"You'll find that RSP Nutrition products accomplish a multitude of goals for the consumer. The all-in-one benefits are a great way for consumers to save time and pantry space," said Escalera. "For example, with TrueFit alone containing pre and probiotics for gut health, fruits, and vegetables, plus grass-fed protein - the customer is receiving so much more than just protein. The AminoLean pre-workout can be used for anytime energy, weight management, amino acids for muscle recovery, and for a pre-workout boost."

All of their products come with a money-back guarantee and Stay Fit readers can save 15% on your purchase with code STAYFIT15 at RSPNutrition.com. In addition to shopping, their website also has a blog with a variety of recipes using their products. RSP Nutrition products can also be found nationwide at Whole Foods, GNC, and Vitamin Shoppe, among others, as well as on Amazon.

Cookies that are low carb, low sugar, made with 100% natural ingredients, AND taste amazing? It may sound too good to be true but that's what you get from Jane Bakes, a woman-owned business founded by Jane Carroll.

A self-made entrepreneur, Carroll was the owner of a successful floral design business before an insane 10 months that changed her life. After a hard turn that included a house fire, a heart attack, and the stock market crash, Carroll decided to pivot and open up a small café. It was there that Carroll found a love for baking and experimenting with healthy recipes, and Jane Bakes was born.

Jane Bakes cookies are a clean treat made up of simple, real ingredients. You won't find artificial flavoring here - Carroll's seven flavors of cookies use real ingredients like crushed hazelnuts and scraped vanilla beans. Real ingredients also means that the cookies are very satisfying for being such a small treat. They are inspired by a French sable cookie, which means they have a unique texture that is soft, crumbly, and melt in your mouth.

Other ingredients include cage-free eggs and non-hormone butter. The cookies are made with 100% whole grain, except for the two gluten-free varieties which are made with almond and coconut flours. They are also made with an all-natural sugar, wheylow, which has 75% less calories and carbs than traditional sugar. Every ingredient contributes to making these cookies a high fiber treat that does not raise your glycemic index.

Each cookie is around 60 calories and with flavors like Double Chocolate, Whiskey & Rye Chocolate Chip, and Vanilla Bean you'll be thankful that you can enjoy them guilt-free. My favorites were Maple Pecan and Raisin Oatmeal, but I also loved the Vanilla Bean because it tasted like shortbread.

While these cookies may not be local to Miami, they are packed in an environmentally-friendly kraft paper sleeve that has a ziplock bag inside to maintain freshness and keep the bakery quality. Jane Bakes makes the small batches of cookies in their New York store and then vacuum seals right before shipping to ensure freshness.

Jane Bakes is currently distributed to over 1,000 stores in and around the northeast. For those of us down south, the cookies are also sold online through their website and available on Amazon Prime! If you want to order your own cookies, you can get a discount on your order by using coupon code insta25 at janebakes.com.

della bowls, based in Miami, is bringing their vibrant, plant-based recipes into your home with the launch of their first cookbook.

After the COVID pandemic forced them to change their plans for a grand opening at The Doral Yard, the team pivoted to focus on connecting with the della bowls community digitally through virtual cooking classes and their new digital cookbook.

della bowls’ core mission is to make healthy food delicious, affordable, and easily accessible. Now their recipes are in an easy-to-follow format, using simple ingredients that you can find almost anywhere. With the della bowls cookbook, you will be layering new textures and flavors and building your own bowls.

RELATED 3 Tips to Help You Break Into a Healthy Eating Lifestyle without Breaking the Bank

All della bowls generally follow the magic number 5 to make what they call ‘healthy bowls of happy.’ The 5 components of every bowl are base + protein + veggies + sauce + boost. ⁠ The globally-inspired bowls in their cookbook include five house favorite bowls, like the Dalé Bowl, stacked with vibrant layers of brown rice, refried black beans, cashew queso, pico de gallo, panelle, and Verde Sauce, and the Caribbean Bowl, packed with marinated kale, coconut black forbidden rice, toasted coconut, plantains, avocado, and Yellow Sauce.

The della bowls team has compiled recipes for all lifestyles, occasions, and paletes. In their cookbook you will get:

• recipes from their current della bowls menu
• new recipes
• old favorites
• suggested bowl combinations
• cooking tips and tools

⁠We loved the sweet potato hummus for snacking, and the della bites for a quick boost of energy. Whether you prefer to meal prep, or cook meals on the fly, all of the recipes are simple and easy to prepare.

The digital cookbook is now for sale on their website and on Amazon for $9.99.

della bowls is also currently delivering via Door Dash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Postmates in Miami 7 days a week from 11 a.m. to 2:00 am. Please visit our website dellabowls.com for more information, or on Instagram at @dellabowls.

Experience delicious, plant-based, scratch-made food at Delicious Raw Kitchen and Juice Bar in Miami Beach. Located in the Sunset Harbour neighborhood, Delicious Raw has a diverse menu of items made in house, ranging from juices and smoothies, to meals like their fan-favorite vegan Nobl veggie burger.

Delicious Raw has a passion for creating food that tastes good and is good for you. Their plant-based menu is constantly evolving to stay on the cutting edge of healthy cuisine. Additionally, their ingredients are always sourced with quality, freshness, and responsible farming practices in mind.

Some of their signature menu items include the Righteous Waffle, based on energy-sustaining ancient grains, the fusion Buddha Bowl with house-made sweet potato pasta, and the Super-Bowl açai bowl. Raw Delicious also serves up a variety of hot and iced coffee-based beverages, such as the Maca Bullet. Their juices and smoothies are unharmed by oxidation, additives, and preservatives.

For those running in for a quick bite, there are also a variety of grab and go items pre-packaged for convenience. However, with the goal of recharging both your mind and your body, Delicious Raw has a cozy ambiance and both indoor and outdoor seating that encourages you to stay for a while.

Their growing scratch in-house production includes core ingredients such as nut butters, nut milks, and nut flours, superfood pastas made of such vegetables as black bean, sweet potato, and turmeric pepper, gluten-free and vegan baked goods, dehydrated fruits and vegetables, vegan yogurts, dressings, and jams.

Delicious Raw was launched in 2013 in Naples and has since expanded to South Florida. In addition to their location in Miami Beach, you can also visit their restaurant in Davie.

Check them out in Miami Beach from 7am – 10pm daily.

Whether you are avoiding dairy, eliminating preservatives, or just want to make your own custom alternative milk and butter blends, NutraMilk will help make the process easy while reducing waste.

Using nuts, seeds, legumes, and grains of almost any variety, NutraMilk is a versatile appliance that was invented to cut out all the extra tools and time needed to make your own butters and milks. From cashew milk to almond butter, you get to control the flavor, sweetness, and consistency to your taste. The powerful horsepower combined with sharp blades breaks down nuts into butter in minutes. If milking, add water to the butter, and the mixture is forced through little mesh screens to ensure that the final product is extra smooth and creamy.

Ready to make your own? There is no need to soak your ingredients prior, and there is no straining required after. There are just four simple steps:

1. Add your dry ingredients to the NutraMilk machine. You can use as little as one cup for small batches or up to three cups for larger servings.
2. Butter the ingredients. All times are laid out in a handy chart based on the nut, etc. used so there is no guessing. Set the timer and press the Butter button.
3. Add water. Once you have a creamy butter base, add water and press Mix.
4. Dispense. Now you have delicious, additive-free milk!

My first time using the NutraMilk was almost too easy. I re-read the directions several times thinking I was forgetting something. The large machine was slightly intimidating and made me think that there was more too it, but it really was that simple. I also liked that the NutraMilk was quieter than many other blenders and food processors.

While it may not be as cost-effective to make your own alternative milk, this machine will make sure that you are making efficient use of your ingredients. Alternative milk created with the NutraMilk contains 15% nut content with only the additives you want to include. Additionally, there was nothing left over when I was done dispensing! All of the almonds had been used in the milk and there was hardly any pulp remaining.

Although it is a large appliance, you can justify the space and the cost because NutraMilk can easily take the place of your existing food processor. Beyond butters and milks, NutraMilk can be used for smoothies, purees, sauces, dips, and batters.  NutraMilk comes with a giant recipe book with over 200 recipes so that you can have fun experimenting and custom blending your favorite combinations.

RELATED 5 Ingredients You Should Be Adding to Your Smoothies

There are recipes like cinnamon maple almond milk that went amazing with my coffee and lavender honey cashew milk that goes perfect with matcha. As a peanut butter addict, of course, I made my own peanut butter, and I can't wait to try the chocolate hazelnut butter for a homemade Nutella.

If you are someone who likes to know what is in their food, enjoys making their own food, or likes to experiment in the kitchen, I would recommend NutraMilk for the convenience and choices that it provides.

Disclosure: I received the NutraMilk machine in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own.

$2 to add avocado? Avocados are always worth any upcharge they might incur according to Pati Jinich. We agree, Pati!

Jinich was born andraised in Mexico, which influenced her love of avocados.

"It is part ofyour soul as a Mexican," she said. "Avocados are easily accessibleand can be dressed up or dressed down. These qualities highlight the Mexicancharacter; we are very accommodating."

Jinich is a chef and the star of national public TV series Mexican Table, in its eighth season.  She has published two cookbooks: Pati’s Mexican Table: The Secrets of Real Mexican Home Cooking, published in 2013, and Mexican Today: New and Rediscovered Recipes for Contemporary Kitchens, published in 2016. She is also a brand ambassador for Avocados from Mexico.

Her tips for picking a good avocado? Find one with a little give when you press on the skin, but not too soft where it's overripe. If the avocado is still a little green, bring it home anyway as it will ripen in just a few days. If your avocado ripens faster than you can eat it, store it in the refrigerator to give it an extra 4-5 days.

The Hass Avocado Board is projected that the US will consume 153 million pounds of avocado during tomorrow's SuperBowl game.

We asked Jinich, our avocado queen, to share three recipes all involving the delicious healthy fats for your Super Bowl party. Below is Jinich's essential guacamole recipe. She also shared two taco recipes, one with chicken and one vegetarian option, because she loves how portable tacos are - easy to eat and serve as you mingle and watch the game!

If you try any of these recipes and post to Instagram, tag @stayfit305 and @patijinich! 

And if you're a superfan heading to the Super Bowl at the Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, check out Tacos Por Favor by Avocados from Mexico to get your taco fix.

1. Essential Guacamole

• 3 ea. Avocados From Mexico, halved, pitted, & peeled
• 2 ea. limes, juiced
• 2 ea. garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 ea. tomato, finely diced
• 3 T. cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 T. sweet onion, finely chopped
• 4 t. chives, finely chopped
• 1 t. basil, finely chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, mash the avocados until smooth.
2. Fold in lime juice, garlic, tomatoes, cilantro, onions, chives, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Avo-Mojo Chicken Tacos

For Chicken:

• Olive Oil           
• Chicken Breast
• Prepared Mojo = 1 bottle Goya Prepared           
• Lime    
• Sour Orange Juice       
• Garlic  
• Bay leaf           
• Salt and Pepper           

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium high heat.          
2. Add chicken and combine with olive oil. 
3. Add remaining ingredients and cook for 25-30 minutes at low heat.           
4. (Let chicken slightly cool down) 
5. (After cooled down - Shred chicken breast)        
6. (Add shredded chicken breast back into cooking liquid)   

3. Avo Vegetarian Tacos

For Fried Avocado:

• Avocado
• Panko Bread Crumb
• Tajin
• Eggs
• Salt

1. Cut each avocado into 8 wedges lay on sheet pan.
2. Using a food processor, pulse only 8 oz of panko to a fine consistency
3. Mix together fine & regular panko with tajin into a mixing bowl.
4. Place eggs into a bowl and mix well and set aside
5. Toss sliced avocado in seasoned panko and then to egg wash then back to seasoned panko.
6. Then place slices onto a parchment paper-lined sheetpan.
7. Place another piece of parchment paper on top of coated avocados.
8. Wrap sheetpan of avocados tightly with plastic wrap.
9. Place into freezer till frozen or up to 72 hours.
10. Fry at 350 till golden brown and season with salt immediately after frying.

For Tacos:

Build taco from bottom to top as on the ingredients starting with the tortilla and ending with the grilled avo in the following order

• White Corn Tortilla 4.5 inches    
• Avo Mojo Chicken            
• Cilantro Lime Slaw        
• Pickled Red Onions      
• Cotija Cheese  

"Saving theworld one scoop at a time" is painted on the wall outside of Nabati as anintroduction to their values. This plant-based and plastic-free ice cream shopcelebrated their grand opening on August 2 and aims to be a guilt-free, healthytreat for both humans and the planet.

Founder Ola Kayal isa vegan chef who originally created Nabati, which means "plant-based"in Arabic, as a project for the culinary school she attended in Switzerland.When given the opportunity to open the first plant-based ice cream shop in Miamifollowing her graduation, she took the chance. After years of testing, she hasfound herself able to redefine ice cream.

There is nothing tohide at Nabati. All of the ice cream is produced in-house using a combinationof cashews and coconut, and sweetened with natural ingredients like dates andmaple syrup. There are no stabilizers or chemicals used and the base of the icecream is mixed with natural ingredients to create original flavors.

And for a smallshop, they are big on flavor. There are over 15 flavors at any one time, likebanana pecan, apple granola, and golden scoop (turmeric and ginger). Someflavors are blended with CBD for a little extra chill. The menu isever-changing and Nabati welcomes suggestions for future flavors.  In addition to the ice cream, there aredifferent toppings available as well as cones that are also baked in-house -all of which are also organic, soy-free, gluten-free, refined-sugar free, anddairy-free like the ice cream.

In creating theirown plant-based ice cream, it also means that Nabati is not harming any animalsor our planet. Kayal and her shop are committed to sustainability and offeronly compostable bowls and spoons. Patrons who bring their own containers evenget 5% off their bill.

While highlight ofthe shop is the ice cream, Nabati also has smoothies, bakery items, and coffeeon their menu. Kayal and Nabati also love hosting events and being a creativespace for the community. They welcome artist collaborations, showcases, and pop-upsrelated to their vegan and sustainable missions.

For hours and more information check out nabatisuperfoods.com or on Instagram @nabatiicecream.

This past weekend was the 6th annual SEED Food & Wine Festival, which hosts multiple events celebrating the plant-based community and encouraging sustainable living.

On Saturday, November 9, was the Festival Day Tasting Village at Mana Wynwood, where attendees enjoyed countless plant-based and vegan food and drink options.

Among the 150 restaurants, bakeries, brands, and juices representing states across the country were some local gems from right here in South Florida.

Here are seven brands and restaurants that we got to meet and taste at the SEED Food & Wine Festival. All these treats can be found at various health food markets and restaurants across South Florida.

Bunnie Cakes

Already well-known in Miami, this local bakery was featured on Cupcake Wars in 2013 and has since won numerous awards. Mariana Cortez is the founder of this vegan bakery where their delicious products have no artificial sugars and select items are also gluten-free. Bunnie Cakes makes cakes and cupcakes (of course) as well as cookies, brownies, donuts, and cinnamon rolls. Their mini cupcakes were so moist, and we loved the guava and vanilla flavors. Find their storefront in Wynwood and coming soon, Doral.

Rebirth Elixirs

Rebirth Elixirs are juices recreated based off recipes from ancient history - the mountain cities of Incan Peru, the Maurya empire of 2nd century B.C. India, the royal palaces of the Ayutthaya Kingdom of ancient Thailand, the inner chambers of Cleopatra's Egypt, and the vast and florid civilizations of West Africa. We tried the Egyptian Rose Water, meant to hydrate your skin and fight wrinkles as queen Cleopatra used to, and the Incan Purple Corn Cider, which contains a high concentration of resveratrol to help lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar. Find these juices at Milam's Markets and Living Green Markets, among many other locations.

ADASHAH

ADASHAH is a lentil-based vegan protein source with a multitude of nutrients. Taylor Cohen created this product in a way to heal herself from chronic disease through an organic, plant-based diet. Made of a mixture of red lentils, flaxseed, and turmeric, it can be prepared in a variety of ways. ADASHAH is 100% organic, preservative-free, soy-free, gluten-free and nut-free. Not only can you feel good about the ingredients, but it is a powerhouse of nutrients and is packed with protein. Restaurants across South Florida all prepare and serve it differently, using it in wraps, bowls, salads, in a vegan bolognese, breakfast burritos, even as a burger. We loved the taste and texture of this protein alternative.

Nabati

Enjoy your ice cream and feel good about it. Founder Ola Kayal is dedicated to sustainability, health, and making delicious desserts anyone can enjoy. The plant-based ice cream at Nabati is made from cashews, coconuts, and other all-natural, healthy ingredients. Nabati crafts many unique flavors, all made in house. We tried “sweet smoke” at SEED and it was creamy and satisfying. The location in Wynwood is plastic-free and customers are welcome to bring their own containers for a discount.

Big Kahuna Kava

Kava is native to the Pacific Islands and the Kava root hasbeen used for many years to help relieve anxiety, stress, migraines, help with insomnia,and create an overall state of relaxation. While the taste is earthy andslightly bitter, Big Kahuna Kava infuses the kava root with pineapple andcoconut water to create a more desirable drink. However, this beverage istypically consumed for the health benefits versus the taste. You can find BigKahuna Kava at Brickell City Center Farmer’s Market and Pinecrest Farmer’sMarket, among other venues.

Chef Cristy’s Raw Foods

Chef Cristy Gonzales makes delicious raw treats from her Doral headquarters, specifically raw energy balls that come in cinnamon, chocolate, and orange flavors. The primary ingredients in Gonzales’ energy balls are apples and cashews and, according to her research, are at an ideal “good fat” ratio - 1:2:2 ratio of saturated, mono-unsaturated, and polyunsaturated fat. Some of the benefits of these snacks include maintaining a strong immune system and providing vitamins, minerals, fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds to the body. Chef Cristy’s products are vegan, gluten-free, sodium-free and organic and taste amazing!

Tiger Seed

Tiger Seed‘s goal is to produce high-quality tonics thattaste delicious. They use all-natural ingredients and you will never findartificial sweeteners or preservatives in their products. Tiger Seed’s flagshipbeverage is Gingerade, featuring the health benefits of ginger, but they alsohave a Turmeric Tea and a Matcha Mint drink, all with their own health benefitsthanks to the main ingredients - turmeric and matcha. All three are refreshingand flavorful and bottled right here in Miami!

The brand that made drinking collagen trendy - Vital Proteins - is adding new sustainably-sourced nutrition products to their supplement collection.

Vital Proteins’ new Performance line of collagen products includes pre and post-workout powdered drink mixes tailored to meet the functional needs of today’s athlete.

In case you don’t already know, collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is a key component of all connective tissues. Collagen provides the infrastructure of the musculoskeletal system which is essential for mobility.

PreWAVE is Vital Proteins’ pre-workout formula. It contains 140mg of caffeine for energy, as well as 5g collagen and 5g BCAA (branched-chain amino acids) to support muscle and joint health. PreWAVE also has creatine nitrate and elevATP for enhanced power output during your workout.

The post-workout mixture is RecoveryWAVE. Two scoops mixed with liquid include 20g of collagen, essential amino acids and BCAA to maximize muscle protein and collagen synthesis. Other ingredients include glutamine to help the body keep up with the training demand and electrolytes, Himalayan sea salt, and taurine to help replenish minerals lost during exercise and rehydrate.

Both the Pre and Recovery WAVEs come in 5 flavors: Passion Fruit, Guava Lime, Watermelon Blueberry, Lemon Grape, Yuzu Clementine. You can rest assured that there are no synthetic colors or artificial sugars included in either formula. In addition, they are made without fillers, binders, dairy, gluten or soy.

These supplements are available online and will also be in Whole Foods stores at the end of December.

Stay tuned for the third drink in the Performance line, an intra-workout supplement.

South Florida was spared from Hurricane Dorian but unfortunately, our neighbors in the Bahamas were not so lucky.  Now is the time to assist in hurricane relief efforts. We rounded up a few ways that you can help.

You can drop off unused hurricane supplies and items to the following collection sites around Miami:

• Greater St. Paul AME Church: 3680 Thomas Ave
• Christ Episcopal Church: 3475 William Ave
• Fire Station drop-off times are from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM
• Fire Station 1: 144 N.E. 5 ST
• Fire Station 2: 1901 N. MIAMI AVE
• Fire Station 3: 1103 NW 7 ST
• Fire Station 4: 1105 SW 2 AVE
• Fire Station 5: 1200 NW 20 ST
• Fire Station 6: 701 NW 36 ST
• Fire Station 7: 314 BEACOM BLVD
• Fire Station 8: 2975 OAK AVE
• Fire Station 9: 69 NE 62 ST
• Fire Station 10: 4101 NW 7 ST
• Fire Station 11: 5920 W. FLAGLER ST
• Fire Station 12: 1455 NW 46 ST
• Fire Station 13: 990 NE 79 ST
• Fire Station 14: 2119 S.W. 19 ST
• MRC Building: 444 SW 2 AVE

They are collecting:

• First aid kits/medical supplies
• Toiletries
• Batteries
• Water
• Canned/nonperishable foods
• Can openers
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Cleaning supplies
• Lanterns/flashlights
• Gloves
• Tarps
• Baby food and formula
• Diapers and wipes

They are alsoaccepting cash donations for generators and rebuilding supplies.

You can alsoconsider donating directly to one of several nonprofit disaster relief funds:

• Donate to Global Giving’s disaster relief fund for Hurricane Dorian
• Donate to the Red Cross’s Hurricane Dorian relief fund
• Donate to United Way’s Operation Helping Hands

Local bakery CraveClean has been helping make healthy eating a little easier for years by making sweets from wholesome ingredients. That includes their cookies, protein donuts, brownies, cookie dough bars, and cake pops. All of their healthy sweets are gluten-free, low calorie, handmade, have no added sugar (they use Stevia), and are high in protein.

*Read:CraveClean is Bridging the Gap Between Fitness and Foodies*

While Miamians have the luxury of visiting CraveClean in person at one of their two locations, delivery is the only option for those who live within the continental U.S.

New this summer,CraveClean is now packaging their cookies into single-serve pouches, expandingtheir reach even further. You can find the cookies in fitness studios,restaurants, coffee shops, and nutrition stores across South Florida.

We recently gotto try both their chocolate chip and white chocolate chip cookies, and trust uswhen we say these do not taste like your typical healthy treat.

The nutritional information per cookie is:

Calories: 150
Protein: 11g
Carbs: 13g
Fat: 8g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 3g

These cookieswere fresh and moist even though they were packaged. If you like a softercookie, you will love these. They have a very impressive taste for a cookie ingeneral, let alone one with such low macros and healthy ingredients.

The only ingredients in these cookies are egg whites, whey protein, gluten-free rolled oats, coconut oil, coconut flour, chocolate chips, stevia, and baking powder.

There was noaftertaste or gritty texture from the whey protein.  The white chocolate flavor was our favorite,but both are phenomenal. There is a very generous amount of chocolate chips inboth cookies.

Highlyrecommended: Try popping the soft cookies in the microwave for a few secondsfor a fresh from the oven warmth.

Overall, thiscookie is a treat you can feel good about and the taste and texture satisfiedour sweet tooth! It's a good thing they are packaged individually or we might betempted to eat more than one.

FreshKitchen is continuing to show Florida just how convenient and tasty they canmake healthy food. Their newest location opened at the end of February inDavie, continuing their expansion into South Florida.

Stopin and build your own made-to-order bowls with fresh ingredients that are madefrom scratch and change with the seasons. The entire menu at Fresh Kitchen is100% gluten free and there are several vegan-friendly options. All food iscooked in 100% olive oil and the meats are both hormone and antibiotic free, soyou can feel good about what you are putting in your body.

TheFresh Kitchen chain began in Tampa back in 2014 and has since grown. They nowhave 7 locations around Florida, including one in Boca Raton, with plans toopen an 8th location before the end of the year.

StevenLanza, Brand President, says he still eats at Fresh Kitchen five times a week.

"Ithink that clearly shows that we stand behind what we serve," said Lanza.

Afterchoosing from one of two sizes, start building your bowl by first selectingbases from options like cauliflower potato mash and sweet potato noodles, thenchoosing roasted veggies, and lastly, adding proteins that include baked almondchicken and chia seed teriyaki tofu. Top it all off with delicious sauces likecucumber jalapeño or creamy white ginger, leaving you with endless possiblecombinations.

FreshKitchen also sells house-made cold-pressed juices, craft sodas, and healthytreats to round out your meal.

The FreshKitchen Davie location offers both indoor and outdoor seating and is a veryaesthetically pleasing (read: Instagram friendly) with bright pink branding,rose-patterned tables, and wall of live potted cacti. Stop in for lunch ordinner every day from 11 AM - 9:30 PM.

FreshKitchen Davie is located at 2853 S University Road in Davie.

The 5th Annual SEED Food & Wine Week Presented by Whole Foods Market (SEED) returned this past weekend and included over 10 events featuring local, regional and national chefs, restaurants, exhibitors, and personalities. After walking the festival floor, we rounded-up seven local goodies you might want to take a closer look at.Radiate KombuchaRadiate Kombucha is a tiny one-woman owned business, and every single ingredient in the kombucha has been researched and sourced meticulously. We loved the flavors like Mermaid Majik with ginger and blue-green algae and Pina Caliente with pineapple, turmeric, and cayenne. Find it at many local shops across Miami.Vegan Schmegan BakeryThis is a 100% vegan delivery-only bakery located in South Florida and delivering within Broward and Miami-Dade County. They make cakes, cookies, brownies, cinnamon rolls, cheesecakes, mini cupcakes, and gelato, in addition to savory items like pizza rolls and cheezy biscuits. We had one of their gold glazed donuts. Several local cafes and restaurants also feature their baked goods, including Splurge Juice Bar and Holi Vegan Kitchen.Not a Milk CompanyThis company has created an easier way to milk nuts. Their patent-pending, first of its kind, raw Nut Base allows everyone to enjoy freshly-made nut milk within seconds. When blended with water, this base creates a true-to-its-roots nut milk. We got to try it as a matcha latte and we found it to be very delicious and creamy.La Croix Local FlavorsAlthough not a locally based company, La Croix launched two special flavors especially for Miami - Cubana, Coffea Exotica and Coconut Cola. They came out with these flavors to highlight the lively, exotic Miami personality and you can find them at Whole Foods in the area.Not Another Organic Brand Natural PopsNot Another Organic Brand creates popsicles made with non-GMO fruits and veggies and no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. These pops are named by their colors, such as Yellow Boost with Vitamin C, ginger, and chia seeds, and Green Breath with chlorophyll, kale, and moringa.Vice City BeanVice City Bean wants you to drink good coffee. A staple in downtown Miami, they offer hot espresso drinks, cold brew, and nitro brew, as well as hot & cold teas. They feature a variety of alternative nut milk options at their shop, including oat milk.Expressed JuiceExpressed Juice creates Florida fresh raw, cold-pressed juice. They were established as a means of nourishing our bodies, relieving them from the stress of everyday life, and restoring ourselves to a state of well-being. These juices are found at many locations throughout Miami.

In the past two months, all of us have been reevaluating our home gym situations. Through a matter of necessity, we completed bodyweight workouts, resistance band workouts, and, if we were lucky, even got to incorporate some weighted workouts. Although there are a lot of things we miss about our normal workout routines and locations, you have to admit that home gyms do have some perks.

Here are the biggest pros to working out at your home gym versus your favorite gym.... and here are the cons, which may just outweigh the pros.

HOME GYM PROS

1. Wear what you want.

No need for matching sets or the latest athleisure. Sneakers are optional. Heck, you can workout naked if you really want!

2. Do what you want.

Not feeling burpees today? Do something else. And go ahead, skip the last rep if you want!

3. Lots of variety.

Your home gym can be a HIIT studio one day and a Pilates studio the next - the options are endless!

4. Easily fits your schedule.

No commuting time means you can switch from working to working out in minutes. No need to worry if a 7 am workout is perfect for your schedule but your gym only has classes at 6:30 am or 8 am. Only have time for a 10-minute workout? The home gym is perfect.

5. Save money.

Your home gym would never charge you a $30 drop-in rate! Of course, how much you are saving depends on the virtual classes you are attending or the equipment that you recently purchased but your home gym is an investment.

HOME GYM CONS

1. Too much flexibility.

It's great that you can technically work out whenever you want, but that might just mean that you workout tomorrow instead... or the next day. There is no cancellation fee at your home gym so skipping a workout is just too easy.

2. No accountability.

Sometimes you need someone yelling at you to do the harder workouts or watching you do that last rep. It can be hard to really challenge yourself.

3. Limited space and equipment.

Not only are you confined to your home, but you may also be stuck using your tiny balcony or a section of your living room. In addition, your equipment pales in comparison to the latest, top-of-the-line machines at your favorite gym. This is especially true if you only have a couple of resistance bands to work with, but you will always have a more limited selection at home.

4. Missing support from friends.

It's just you at your home gym, meaning there is no social element or competition. The motivation you get from your friend working out next to you is a gamechanger.

5. Distractions.

Your home gym is also your restaurant, office, movie theater, and childcare, among everything else. At your favorite gym, it's gym vibes only, giving you the ability to focus on nothing else while you workout.

Overall, home gyms have nothing on the community, experience, and motivation that our favorite gyms provide. While we are not advocating going back to your favorite gym or studio before you feel safe, as things continue to get better, and as you are allowed to go back, keep this list in mind!

Pre-COVID they were annoying. Now? They are the things that you never thought you would miss about working out in Miami.

1. Fighting traffic to make it to class on time.

2. Struggling to find parking before class.

3. Paying for parking as you run to class.

4. Paying $30 for a drop-in class.

5. Shoving your way to the lockers.

6. Waiting in a pack of people for class to start.

7. Rubbing up on sweaty people coming out of the workout as you head into class.

8. Having the instructor yell at you to do burpees.

9. Having the instructor yell at you to do anything physical.

10. When the person at the station in front of you is dripping sweat on everything.

11. When the sweat towel smells a little funky.

12. That one person not following any instructions.

13. Having to sneak using your phone.

14. Waiting to use the equipment.

15. Getting stuck on a waitlist.

16. Getting suckered into buying new workout clothes.

17. Being asked to take photos for a fitness influencer after class.

18. Paying $10 for a post-workout smoothie.

We can't wait for the day when we can be shoved by a sweaty gym-goer as we pay for an overpriced smoothie before walking back to our car to find a parking ticket!!!!!

Another day in of shelter-in-place, another virtual workout. The class on Instagram Live or Zoom is the closest thing you have to being back at your favorite gym. Your train of thought will probably go a little something like this as you sweat your way through the workout from the comfort of your home.

Check out STAY FIT 305's upcoming Virtual Sweat Series!

1. Time to get up off the couch and change for class.
2. OH WAIT. I exclusively wear workout clothes these days.
3. I have all these cute workout clothes that don't even matter anymore…
4. Which workout did I say I would do today?
5. There are so many options.
6. Too many options!
7. Let me gather my equipment.
8. Oh wait - I literally only have a mat right now, that was easy.
9. Should I stream this on my phone?
10. No, let me use my laptop.
11. Okay, we're all really doing this.
12. Is this warm-up more aggressive than usual?
13. Do I usually start sweating only 2 minutes into class?
14. I hope the neighbors aren't watching me.
15. I can feel the homemade banana bread just sitting in my stomach.
16. Why is my family bothering me right now when I'm trying to workout?
17. What was that last move the trainer did?
18. Uh oh, we're starting the circuit, guess I'll figure it out as we go.
19. I could stop right now.
20. No one can really see me.
21. 30 seconds is so long when I can't see a timer.
22. Should I do this last rep?
23. Come on, you've been sitting on the couch all day, just finish this workout.
24. Ah, the trainer just yelled at me to keep moving.
25. How do they still manage to harass me through the computer screen?!
26. Having my pet watch me this whole time is only slightly awkward.
27. Wow! I am really killing this workout!
28. I am doing burpees. At home.
29. My self-discipline is amazing!
30. How many more minutes?
31. Last set.
32. I can't feel my tricep.
33. I survived.
34. Time to clean up my sweat.
35. I'm already sore.

With all three South Florida counties closing gyms and fitness studios to contain the spread of coronavirus, our local fitness community needs your support. Here are 9 ways you can support your local gyms and trainers during these unprecedented times - both financially and without spending a dime.

1. Don't freeze your membership.

If you can afford it, keep your recurring membership active to help generate an income even while the gym is closed.

2. Buy class packages.

Support your favorite gyms with classes you can use in the future. You were going to need to get more classes anyway, so buy them now.

3. Buy gift cards.

Buy gift cards to pay for future months of your membership, or maybe give some classes or sessions to a friend in the future.

4. Buy gym merchandise.

Many gyms have inventories of shirts, hats, and other branded merchandise. Anything that you can buy from the gym will help right now.

5. Rent equipment from gyms and studios.

Take advantage of any fitness equipment rental programs that your gym might be running to score some equipment for your at-home workouts and support your gym at the same time.

*RELATED Savvy Miami Gym Owners Are Finding Ways to Drive Revenue During Coronavirus, and Members are Loving It

6. Participate in online/live workouts.

Many gyms and trainers are streaming and sharing workouts. Participate in them, share them with friends and family, and then offer to pay the gym/trainer their time. Even a few dollars to their Venmo makes a difference.

7. Ask your trainer to write you a personal plan at their rate.

Email your favorite trainer and ask them how much they would charge to create a custom plan. While there are lots of free workouts available online, ask for a plan that utilizes the equipment you have at home or the type of workouts you prefer.

8. Share your favorite trainers' videos and workout posts.

Engage with the content being shared on Instagram and Facebook, and help trainers widen their audience by sharing with your networks or tagging them in your quarantine workout posts.

9. Leave reviews across the Internet.

Whether it's on Google, MindBody, Facebook, Yelp, or somewhere else, show your support by reviewing your favorite gyms.

Why doesn't anyonemake yoga pants for men? This was the question that Matador Meggings founderValentine Aseyo needed an answer to while he was in yoga teacher training fiveyears ago.

Aseyo didn't like wearing shorts over his leggings but he also wanted to leave some things to the imagination. He also wanted options like women had, with so many different colors and patterns.

Recently, Aseyo left the corporate world for fashion and to answer this question. Meggings officially launched as a company last January, and since then, there have been 10 months of research and development, perfecting the style and fit. After all the iterations, Meggings had a soft launch and did beta testing for more feedback.

Matador Meggings are leggings re-engineered with the male anatomy in mind. Using the same foam padding that is found in women's sports bras for the crotch area, these leggings have a built-in cup to help leave some things to the imagination.

Meggings also have places to hold keys and a wallet. The right pocket fits a cell phone, while the left pocket can carry other valuables. The back of the leggings have a loop that can hold a t-shirt or towel.

The name Matador Meggings comes from Aseyo's Spanish heritage. A matador is a bullfighter and can be seen as both hypermasculine and sophisticated, qualities that Aseyo channeled in his leggings. The matador inspiration can be seen in the stripes on the sides of the Meggings, which form bull horns.

The colors and prints are very bold, such as Ocean and Gray Camo. Future collections will include more classic colors as well as a Festival collection with even brighter and bolder styles. Aseyo says that his Meggings are "festival clothing meets high-performance workout clothing" and they are meant to take someone from "IronMan to Burning Man."

There are still many things coming for Matador Meggings. Thanks to the feedback they have already received, they will be launching a full-length style of leggings soon. They are also expanding their general fitness apparel, including shirts, joggers, and other accessories.

With his yoga experience, Aseyo also gives back to the community as the founder of CAYA (Come As You Are), a volunteer program designed to empower underserved communities by transforming their lives and well-being through yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness techniques. His target communities include homeless youth, victims of abuse, foster children, refugees, underprivileged LGBT, formerly incarcerated individuals, people with special abilities, and senior citizens.

Matador Meggings can be purchased online at www.MatadorMeggings.com where you will get free shipping and free returns. Use the promo code StayFit305 at checkout to get a 15% discount.

Our friends at Equinox Brickell are here to share tips and tricks for starting your new year with your best foot forward! Tara Martinez is a Group Fitness Manager at Equinox Brickell and she has five ways to jumpstart your 2020 fitness goals!

Setting a new year resolution is easy – following through is what can get tricky. Regardless when you plan to set out with new fitness goals, it’s important to give yourself a strong kickstart. Grab a buddy that you can count on, get your calendar ready, and let’s get started!

1 – Set Goals!

Set a long-term goal that’s broken down into a series of smaller, attainable goals along the way. Those small victories will drive you to the finish line. A few long-term goal examples could be running a half-marathon, competing in a triathlon, or even simply running a 5K.

2 – Figure out what you like.

It’s hard to keep goals when you hate the work that goes into achieving them. Check out your gym’s group fitness schedule or join a gym that has a lot of varied classes. Try a little bit of everything and see which ones you enjoyed the most. Incorporate those classes into your fitness routine more regularly.

3 – Bring a Buddy.

Find a friend who’s willing to be your accountability partner and plan workouts with them. Sign-up for group fitness classes together, support each other in the weight room, and be each other’s cheerleader. They say there’s power in numbers and that is 100% true when it comes to working towards a fitness goal.

4 – Make a Plan.

Don’t improvise your workouts. Make sure each day has a specific plan and that you’re implementing a well-balanced variety each week. There should be a healthy balance of strength, cardio and recovery workouts so that you’re getting the most out of your fitness routine and preventing the possibility of injury or muscle strain. If you need help setting a plan, consult with a trainer to create a safe fitness regimen tailored to your individual needs and goals.

5 – Schedule it in!

Bosses don’t cancel. Put your new fitness routine in your calendar and treat it as you would any other appointment. Be a boss!

Bonus tip: Create a convenient fitness routine. Choose activities and a gym location that are conveniently located to your work or home. The easier you make it for yourself to get a workout in, the higher the chance of success.

Good luck and kick butt! You’ve got this.

Tara Martinez is a Group Fitness Manager at Equinox Brickell (1441 Brickell Avenue #4, Miami, FL 33131).