Kait Vadenais

The climate crisis can feel overwhelming. It is hard to feel like one person can have an impact. Now with the recently launched Generation Environment or Gen E phone app, becoming more climate-friendly is easier than ever.

Gen E is a climate fintech app that combines the tools of financial management apps, the perks of having your own philanthropy fund, and a social feed filled with the positive actions of a like-minded community stepping up to protect the planet.

The idea was started by Kristen Kammerer after she reconnected with her passion for nature and the environment.

"I thought about how I can make an impact on climate change,” said Kammerer. “It is hard to make lifestyle changes; even if you care about climate change, you have to be really dedicated."

Kammerer created Gen E to make climate change seamless and easy. Her goal was to automatically give back to the planet with every purchase as a way to stand up for what she believes in her daily life. She knew she had to seamlessly fit into other people’s lifestyles in order for people to adopt this climate action as an easy entry point in leading a more climate-friendly life.  

While it may be hard to avoid the way society is built, there are things we can do within our own lifestyles to give back even while taking from the planet. Now Gen E makes it easy to create a positive reaction and maximize your impact.

Once you download the app, you can tailor your support to vetted organizations working on climate solutions. It rounds up the change from your everyday purchases and donates it to the organization of your choosing on a monthly basis.  You can add more impact by planting trees, for example, and all their impact and tax receipts are stored in the app.    

Gen E allows you to take back some control and stand up for the planet in your everyday life by giving back to it – your way – every time you swipe that card.

"If you have the means, this is the easiest most impactful way an individual can take action on climate change,” said Kammerer. “This is the first step into living a more climate-friendly life. Once you see how easy it is and raise awareness of the environmental impact, it can be a positive snowball effect of starting to do more."

Download Gen E for both Apple and Google phones or find out more about the app by heading to generationenvironment.com.

The downtown YMCA is celebrating Mindful May with two upcoming events on Saturday, May 22.

The first event is a special stretch class focusing on your back and hip flexors. During this yoga class, you will combine static stretches with a dynamic flow to help release tension in the upper and lower back, as well as open the hip flexors. Therabands and foam rollers will be used for more depth and the class will end with relaxation and positive affirmations.

This class will be held at the downtown YMCA from 8:45 am - 10:00 am and is $10 for members and $20 for non-members.

The second event is an outdoor yoga class at the Tina Hills Pavilion Bayfront Park. This free event will be held from 9 am - 10:30 am. Participants must register to attend and can do so at ymcasouthflorida.org/masterclass.

The Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. With a mission centered on balance, the Y encourages good health and fosters connections through fitness, fun and shared interests.

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One of the latest health and wellness trends has come to Miami. You are going to want to try Endosphères Therapy, an innovative treatment that promotes muscle recovery and reduces inflammation.

Endosphères Therapy is a globally recognized treatment that is new to the US market.  A roller device composed of 55 silicon spheres makes up the Compressive Microvibration system, which generates low-frequency mechanical vibrations to rejuvenate, tighten, and tone.

The treatment is enriched with a sensor system, which is a pressure-controlled mechanism that allows it to accurately assess the amount of pressure applied in relation to the type of tissue and the number of sessions already completed.

This method delivers results in as little as one session and is a non-invasive treatment with zero side effects Additionally, the patented technology is backed by seven years of clinical research experience and has been proven effective in physical therapy, injury rehabilitation, and sports medicine. 

For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, Endosphères Therapy can help increase flexibility, relieve minor aches and pains, and promote faster recovery. A single session harnesses the mechanical boost that your body needs to restore homeostasis and aid in injury prevention. 

Endosphères Therapy optimizes body function and helps prevent injury by

• Reducing pain and inflammation
• Increasing circulation
• Boosting lymphatic drainage
• Strengthening immune function
• Reducing fibrous tissue
• Improving muscle tone 

Try Endosphères Therapy for yourself with esthetician Amy Peterson at Skincare by Amy Peterson in Miami Beach.

Beginning today, ClassPass will be offering a free month of fitness to Miami residents. Fitness enthusiasts and newbies alike can get a chance to explore the studios and wellness businesses in their neighborhood with this free month of classes. For people who have relocated to Miami during the pandemic, it’s an especially helpful way to discover everything their new city or suburb has to offer. And for fitness fans considering a return to studios and in-person classes, this is a very timely deal as well!

Here are all the details:

• The ClassPass free month can be used towards fitness and wellness experiences across the network of 40,000 businesses.
• The one-month trial includes access to in-person and outdoor classes such as yoga, boxing, Pilates, cycling, strength training, dance and more.
• The free trial can also be used to sample wellness and beauty experiences including massages and manicures.
• Legacy ClassPass on-demand videos will be available as part of the trial, giving people access to thousands of at-home workouts.

ClassPass has worked with all studios and wellness centers to include safety and sanitation details so that you can easily preview the COVID protocol in place including distanced bikes, contactless check-in, and mask requirements at each business. Head to classpass.com to sign up and get all of the free trial details.

After opening their first location in Miami Beach, Body Roll Studio has opened the doors to their second location in Midtown Miami.

‍The experience:

Body Roll Studio machines are designed to massage and shape all parts of the body. An infrared heated roller with adjustable speed and heat supply provides a massage with elements of acupressure that stimulates lymphatic drainage. Mechanical pressure of rotating, distinctively-shaped wooden rolls improves blood and lymph circulation, what helps to speed the metabolism up, reduce fat tissue and eliminate waste products. If applied regularly, body roll massages reduce the volume of body parts, shape the body, firm the skin and breaks up muscle tightness. In line with above mentioned effects it provides one of the most effective methods of fat burning and cellulite reduction.

What makes Body Roll Studio unique:

Body Roll Studio lymphatic massage machines are equipped with infrared and collagen lamps. The infrared radiation hidden inside the machines widens blood vessels and helps remove toxins from the body by penetrating deeper layers of the skin.

The machines are set up with a special positions sequence and exercises are set according to the principles of lymphatic massage. The machine speed is set individually for each customer based on their previous visits and physical activity. It is crucial to drink enough water during the procedure as muscles work at their maximum when the body is sufficiently hydrated. Liquid intake before and after massage is also very important as it helps the body to eliminate residues more easily.

"This is the perfect treatment for a post-travel detox to help reduce swelling and water weight after a trip," said Rachel Gregson, Marketing Manager at Body Roll Studio.

You should also know:

The infrared lights on the rollers help to expand the blood vessels and detox deeper than a standard lymphatic massage would, and you can also target the exact areas of your body that you want to.

Why members love it:

The reduction in cellulite, looseness of muscles, and improved digestion after regularly rolling. The machine also burns up to 400 calories per session so people love that as well!

The extras:

Find Alo retail apparel, Alma yoga mats, and Body Roll apparel at the studio. The Miami Beach location also monthly and weekly events such as yoga and sound healing.

How to join in:

Body Roll Studio offers single roll sessions (drop-in or online), 5 class packs, 10 class packs, and unlimited monthly memberships.

Location: 

In Midtown, they are located at 3449 NE 1st Ave, Suite 109. The Miami Beach location is at 1825 West Avenue. There are also two studio locations up north - one in Greenwich, CT and one in New York City.

Where to find Body Roll Studio online:

Instagram: @bodyrollstudio

Website: www.bodyrollstudio.com

Since the Wings for Life World Run began in 2014, it’s called South Florida home to one of its flagship races. Held in Sunrise, FL for six straight years, runners, walkers, and wheelchair participants have gathered to compete against thousands of others from across the globe at exactly the same time, all while raising millions of dollars for spinal cord injury research.

This year the race will take place via the event App, which means participants can choose their own run location. We connected with Miami Marathon Founder and recently appointed Chief Wellness Officer of Miami, Frankie Ruiz to share advice and some of his favorite spots to run in Miami. 

City Running‍

Tips

• Find a route that has public restrooms with water fountains, possibly a public park along your route. If not keep the route close to your house where you can pop in for a pitstop or to rehydrate.
• Start off real easy, the city can hype us quickly and our pace will pay the price later in the race.
• Don't pick a route that has lots of turns that can slow you down and confuse you.
• I prefer to run on asphalt instead of concrete because it just feels a little better on my body but whether or not you choose the sidewalk or the road make sure you are paying attention to your surroundings.
• Consider designing your route to have some places more open-air from time to time just because city streets with lots of buildings can get extra warm and humid mid-mornings.
• Wear bright clothes
  

Frankie’s City Pick:

• The Underline — This trail starts in the Brickell area and continues under the metrorail.
  

Ruiz says this is where he plans to run. 

“I am going to be pushing Michael Sayih in his Special Compass racing wheelchair. I am thinking of just staying on the Underline southbound for as long as I can and taking the metrorail back to my starting point. This gives me the most real-life experience possible. Brings back the memories of the in-person race and gets me excited that for 2022 we'll be back doing the same!” 

Beach Running‍

Tips

• When I think of running on the beach I think of wide-open spaces and lots of room to spread out so choose the beach if that is what you are looking for.
• Pick a shoreline or a high side leveled section that has the most compact sand.
• Be mindful of the sand granules getting into your socks so you may want to lather up using body glide or other chafing prevention product prior to your run.
• The sun will probably be your biggest nemesis so plan for it with extra sunscreen, white clothes, and head gear.
• Keep the strides short while focusing on bringing the knees up a bit more than if you were on the road.
• Practice running the beach for at least 3-4 sessions prior to the race.
• Consider a hybrid option of running sand first then jumping onto a more stable surface with better sun coverage.‍

‍Frankie’s Beach Pick

• South Beach - Hard Packed Sand Beach - 23rd Street south all the way past 1st Street to Government Cut. These hard-packed sands provide the best viewing stage for all that is Miami and its beaches. 
  

Frankie’s Other Running Picks

• Lummus Park - This is one of Miami Beach’s largest concentrations of Coconut Palms set as a tropical curtain of sorts for the Art Deco buildings along world-famous Ocean Drive
• Venetian Causeway - 360-degree views from the bridges connecting the man-made islands that make the mileage just fly by. The sites of the multi-million-dollar homes and the yachts floating by can certainly help the mind wander.
• Rickenbacker Causeway - The “big bridge” or more formally known as the William Powell Bridge, will give you the highest elevation in South Florida available to runners
  

There is still time to sign up for Sunday’s Wings for Life World Run on the App or at wingsforlifeworldrun.com where 100% of registration fees go toward finding a cure for spinal cord injuries.

‍ClassPass announced yesterday that Miami vaccine centers are now searchable within the app and website. As a membership that provides access to a network of fitness and wellness experiences, ClassPass now lets members find the closest vaccine center to their home and obtain information including hours of operation and contact information for nearby clinics and health offices.

“We are in a global health crisis and every company should be helping to support relief and vaccination efforts however they can. Using the ClassPass platform to connect members with vaccine centers is a natural extension of our technology and a way that we can contribute to curbing the spread of COVID-19,” says Jeff Bladt, VP of Pricing and Inventory. “We have deep knowledge of how to help people find accurate and up-to-date information on local businesses after routing millions of users to fitness and wellness locations across 30 countries.”

Miami is the latest city to get access to this new feature, which is also available in Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, New York City and Washington, D.C. While members will not be able to book appointments within the ClassPass app, they will be provided with information on how to schedule appointments at listed clinics. To find available locations nearby or look for a relative in another city, members can search for “COVID Vaccination Center” within the ClassPass app and website.

“The process of finding a vaccination appointment can be challenging and many people don’t know where to start. I was thrilled to hear that ClassPass, a high touch app that has already trained people how to search for vital health information, is leveraging their platform to make it easier to identify vaccine sites and secure appointments. Anything that can address this information gap is critical in getting more people vaccinated,” says Dr. Vin Gupta, a critical care pulmonologist, health policy expert, and NBC News Medical Analyst.

ClassPass has worked with all currently operating fitness and wellness businesses to get details on their COVID policies including mask requirements, contactless check-in and capacity restrictions. ClassPass has also worked with studios around the world to add digital classes as an option for members who are staying at home.

This is not the first time that ClassPass has employed their technology for social and health-related causes. During the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections, ClassPass helped voters to find accurate information on where to register and cast their ballot. In June 2020 following nationwide protests and a call to action on racial justice, ClassPass used their platform to aggregate local events and panels and encouraged their community to join the conversation.

Planet Fitness opened earlier this year along the Miami River, occupying a 15,000 square-foot space on the 4th floor of the new River Landing Shops.

Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the United States. It is known for providing members with a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment.

This location has brand name cardio and strength equipment, fully equipped locker rooms, and flat screen televisions throughout. Some of the other amenities at this location include HydroMassage beds, tanning booths, massage chairs, and infrared light therapy. The gym is open and staffed 24/7 and members can enjoy unlimited access.

The fitness retailer joins a roster of national tenants that are occupying space at River Landing, including Publix Super Markets, Burlington Stores, TJ Maxx, Ross Dress For Less, AT&T, Old Navy, Chick-Fil-A and Hobby Lobby.

“The addition of Planet Fitness to our roster of tenants helps solidify River Landing as a bedrock shopping and lifestyle hub for residents living and/or working in the Mid River District, Health District, Allapattah and neighboring areas,” said Andrew Hellinger, principal at Urban-X Group, the developer of River Landing Shops.

Check out Planet Fitness at 1440 NW North River Drive in Miami.

Do you live or work in Brickell and want a convenient yoga studio to flow at without going over the bridge or visiting another neighborhood? We have 4 studios for you!

‍Skanda Yoga Studio

Skanda Yoga Studio offers high quality yoga instruction in many yoga styles: Skanda, Dharma, Kundalini, Kids, and Restorative. The classes present traditional practices in a post-modern system based on the 13- moon calendar in order to align students with nature's cyclical patterns. Offering both virtual and in-studio classes, all studio classes are semi-private with 10 students maximum. Find them at 1800 SW 1st Ave, Suite 102 or on Instagram at skandayoga.

Om Beats Yoga Studio

Join the movement at Om Beats where there is something for everyone. Find classes for Meditation, Prenatal Yoga, Kids Yoga, Mommy and me, Restorative, and more. Classes are held 7 days a week and there is also one very rare feature - free parking. The studio is also pet and kid friendly. Check out Om Beats at 452 SW 8th Street, and on Instagram at ombeatsyogastudio.

Equinox Brickell Heights

Included in the large repertoire of classes at this 3-story gym is yoga. You have traditional vinyasa yoga that links movement and breath through a creative, flowing sequence of postures to soothe your mind. There is also athletic yoga, a vinyasa class with the strength dialed up. Challenge your whole body with a sequence of postures designed to build power and demolish limitation. Equinox is located at 25 SW 9th Street.

Move Lift Live

Not just a CrossFit box, Move Lift Live prides itself on being a gym that brings together multiple health and fitness disciplines under one roof. They know just how important active recovery can be for the body and they offer yoga classes to both challenge and recover. Visit them at 19 SW 6th Street or on Instagram at move_lift_live.

Reach your nutrition and fitness goals with Naked Nutrition. A full line of proteins and supplements, Naked Nutrition aims to give you the best ingredients without any of the junk and is transparent about what it puts in its products. The company, which is based out of Miami Beach does not use any additives artificial sweeteners, or artificial colors.

Stephen Zieminski is the founder and entrepreneur behind the brand. The idea for Naked Nutrition was born while Zieminski was working in finance in New York City in 2014. 

The goal was to bring simple, pure, and high-quality products to a market that was crowded with over-engineered products. Zieminski found that the over-engineering of other products was done mainly to benefit supplement companies instead of the end consumer.

As a former cross country and track athlete from the University of Florida, he was aware of how everything we eat and drink affects our overall health and performance.

“By the time Naked Nutrition was launching consumers were starting to pay attention to ingredients and where food comes from,” said Zieminski. “I thought if people wanted to know where their fruits and vegetables were coming from they’d want the same from their supplements.”

Naked Nutrition launched with five, single-ingredient protein powders which included two of its best-selling products - Naked Whey and Naked Pea. The company was very fast-growing and by January 2015, they were seeing six-figure sales in a month. Zieminski moved back to Florida and chose Miami Beach as the headquarters for Naked Nutrition.

Today, the site has over 30 products ranging from powdered peanut butter and brown rice protein powder, to green superfood powder and collagen peptides. There are products specifically for weight gaining, and products that can be used as meal replacements.

Since the pandemic began Zieminski worked hard to maintain the same rigorous quality standards while still keeping pace with increasing orders. It is during that time that he also led the launch of international shipping for Naked Nutrition and this year will be launching 4 new products.

“Naked's goal is to have a product for everyone, at every time of the day. We are launching a supplement line including multi-vitamins, a hydration product, and a protein powder product that more broadly appeals to consumers. We aim to be a leader in setting trends with new products often, many of which are informed by feedback from customers,” said Zieminski. 

In Miami, Naked Nutrition supplements can be found in the smoothies and shakes of a few local restaurants, including Pura Vida and Pure Green. As a direct-to-consumer brand, the best way to purchase Naked Nutrition products is through their website or Amazon.

Check them out at nakednutrition.com for more information, products, and partnerships. You can also find them on Instagram at @nakednutrition.

As we emerge from multiple waves of the pandemic, people are looking to not only change their nutrition habits but their lifestyle habits. The one app to help you achieve your ideal summer body and find a fit companion is the TeamUp Fitness community.

Numerous blogs will tell you the basics: stay hydrated, workout plans, diet tips, and how to record your progress. An article by Shape presented a 30-step plan on how to achieve your ideal summer body, which includes nutrition plans, varying workouts and training with a workout buddy.

However, TeamUp Fitness is the one resource you'll need to get your summer body back. The app was launched as a social, lifestyle, and fitness connection dating platform and has continued to develop into a place where the fitness community can come together - especially during a time when gyms are slowly opening back up, people are realizing they've lost their healthy habits and gained weight from the pandemic, and people are trying to get back into going to the gym and fitness centers or even picking back up their at-home-equipment.  

All the plans presented above and across varying blogs are available in one place on the TeamUp Fitness App. Features of the app include a section to connect with a nutritionist who can create the ideal diet to drop some of those pandemic pounds. Another feature is the chance to connect with Fitness trainers who are available to provide workout tips and develop a workout program based on your fitness goals.

"The fitness world is filled with hundreds of different nutrition plans and workout plans. However, the TeamUp Fitness app brings all the expertise of the fitness industry into the palm of your hands," said Frank Peperno, Chief Marketing Officer of TeamUp Fitness. "This one app provides users leading-class expertise from personal trainers and nutritionists to help everyone achieve a healthy lifestyle and get that Summer Body you've always wanted with the right team and partner."

TeamUp Fitness is available for download today on the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

RIDE Miami is now offering spin classes at UNKNWN in Wynwood. Classes officially launched on April 5 at the outdoor space, offering you a chance to connect with yourself and others.

The space features state-of-the-art speakers, and customized videos for a fully interactive experience right across from the Wynwood Walls. RIDE Miami has the goal of providing an immersive experience, activating all of the senses to motivate you, to excite you and to push beyond athletic and conventional boundaries.

Bikes are spaced apart and spin shoes are complementary. There are also lockers and changing rooms available.

Right now, they are offering a special RIDE Starter Pack for $25, giving you two classes for the price of one. There are also other class packages available.

Classes are held at 261 NW 26th Street. For more information or to check out their upcoming schedule, head to ride-miami.com or find them on Instagram at @ridemiami.

Is there anything better than breakfast food? From sweet and savory, to fresh and healthy, here are 6 brunch spots you need to try in Miami.

1. Thatch

Enjoy an organic, plant-based menu filled with energy-dense superfoods and local ingredients. With both indoor and outdoor seating and open Tuesday through Sunday, find Thatch at 3255 NE 1st Avenue.

TRY:

Banana Almond Pancakes (they're gluten free!) - banana, almond butter, coconut vanilla cream, caramel sauce, and maple syrup

Thatch McMuffin served with mixed greens -toasted whole wheat English muffin, just egg, tomato, sausage, cheddar cheese, herbed cashew cream, and pickled jalapeño

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2. Bebitos

Find bistro classics and delicious pastries at Bebitos, located at 1504 Bay Road. They have their own signature coffee blend for a signature cafécito or traditional café con leche. There is also a variety of seating that makes it perfect for getting work done or hanging with friends.

TRY:

Fried Egg Croissant - egg sandwich with brie, prosciutto, honey mustard, arugula, and caramelized onions

The Elena - egg sandwich with roasted adobo turkey, strawberry jam, and provolone

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3. Café Americano

With outdoor dining on Collins Ave, the views and people-watching are a great way to start your day. If you like your brunch to be a little boozy, Café Americano has a unique Bloody Mary and a full bar. Find it at 1776 Collins Avenue.

TRY:

Carrot Cake French Toast - three slices of thick cut brioche, griddled in spiced batter, carrot, raisin and pecan cream cheese filling and candied carrots

Huevos Rancheros - crispy corn tortillas, two eggs any style, black beans, chorizo, ranchero salsa, cotija, avocado, colatro, and pico de gallo

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4. Natura Eatery

Find lots of healthy treats at this little spot at 75 NE 16th Street. Open from 9 am - 9pm everyday, the menu uses local and farm-raised ingredients. Look out for their weekly specials or try their acai bowls.

TRY:

Mixed Berry Almond Butter Toast - multigrain toast with almond butter spread topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries,

Coconut Waffles - gluten-free waffles topped with bananas and coconut flakes

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5. Pura Vida

A go-to spot for healthy and delicious food in Miami. With several locations in Miami, they offer all-day breakfast and a peaceful ambiance. You can also find quick grab-and-go options like juices, smoothies, coffee, and tea.

TRY:

Perfect Egg Sandwich - toasted bagel scooped, eggs, mozzarella, arugula, avocado smash, tomato, olive oil

Overnight Oats - oats, shaved coconut, almond milk, and chia seed topped with strawberry, blueberry, homemade vegan granola, and almond butter drizzle

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6. Sagrado

This dog-friendly café has a giant outdoor patio in downtown Miami at 900 Biscayne Boulevard. The menu has a mix of Brazilian specialties and classic breakfast favorites. There is a reason there is always a line on the weekends.

TRY:

Sagrado Waffle - Belgian style waffle served with dulce de leche, Brigadeiro, berries, and whipped cream

Avocado Toast - Sesame toast, tomatoes confit, burrata, avocado, and microgreens

Did you know that uneaten food is the third-largest contributor to climate change? At the same time, uneaten food impacts businesses at all levels. As environmental awareness increases and consumer eating habits are changing, the new app Lovvett aims to create a win-win situation for consumers, businesses, and our planet.

Lovvett is helping local Miami restaurants to reduce food waste and turn surplus food into more revenue for businesses, while offering consumers great food for less and contributing to building more sustainable communities.

Did you know that 30-40% of all food produced in the US is wasted? Even if everyone in need was fed, still there would be surplus that ends in landfills.  Restaurants are one of the primary sources of food waste.

Lovvett was started by a local husband and wife team in Coral Gables. The goal is to contribute to more sustainable communities and ensure conscious consumption. The app enables South Floridians to order and enjoy great food at heavily discounted prices, while benefiting restaurant partners by giving them additional revenue for food items that might otherwise go to waste.

Since Miami is a cultural melting pot, almost every ethnic cuisine is represented with new restaurants continuing to be added.  There is even a filter on the app for any food allergies.

After downloading Lovvett, it is as easy as browsing meals, placing your order, and picking up your food within the designated time window. Some of the restaurants on the app include Miam Miami, DBakers, Rodilla Wynwood, and Spris Artisan and deals are upwards of 50% off, changing daily.

Now you can get $5 off your first $15+ order one week after downloading Lovvett.

Lovvett is looking to start offering the regular menus from participating restaurants alongside their surplus deals. They will start to offer delivery and hope to expand services nationwide. Click here to download the app or visit their website at lovvett.com.

Traditional Jamaican meets health-conscientious with Jrk! in Aventura. This new restaurant has chef-inspired dishes using high-quality ingredients in a fast-casual environment. 

Owner Harrison Berstein grew up loving Jamaican cuisine, influenced by Kavan Burke. Kavan Burke housed Wayne Sharpe for free when he initially moved here from Jamaica until he moved to Atlanta to open his first restaurant. Once Harrison and Kavan decided to join forces and open Jrk!, they convinced Wayne to move back to Miami and the rest was history.

At Jrk! your meal is served bowl-style with a combination of bases, proteins, and toppings. Choose from one of the signature bowls, or make your own. Proteins include Jerk BBQ, Jamrock Pepper Steak, and Oxtail. For vegans, there is even Vegan Jerk. Some of the mouth-watering topping options are Pineapple Plantain, Cabbage Slaw, Pineapple Mango Salsa, Sweet Scotch Bonnet Cauliflower, and Jerk Peppers and Onion. Top off your bowl with a number of sauces with names like Rude Boy and The Tropics.

Finish your meal with a chocolate or pineapple 305 Rum Cake. The restaurant also carries a range of juices, Jamaican sodas, beer, and wine.

Jrk! is open from 11:30 am - 8 pm Sunday through Wednesday, and 11:30 am - 8:30 pm Thursday through Saturday.

Find Jrk! on the third-floor food hall at the Aventura Mall, 19565 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura. For more information head to eatjrk.com or check them out on social media at @eatjrk on Instagram and Facebook and even TikTok.

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We spoke to Matt Rosenberg Passe about a South Beach club without long lines and cover fees. That club is the South Beach Track Club and everyone is invited to join in. Passe is the co-leader and coach of this popular club that meets weekly and is free to join. Check out all of the details below!

1) How did the club get started? When and where? How many members did you have then compared to now?

"South Beach Track Club began as it is currently in January of 2014 after the Flamingo Park Track, on Alton Road and 11th street, was resurfaced and upgraded from the cement track that it used to be into the beautiful track that it now is. When we started, we let people know by a mix of social media and word of mouth - as we do today. We started probably with 10-20 runners per session. We grew to, before Covid-19, up to a max of 75 or so members on a given night, but usually between 40-60 or so. Now during Covid, we have adapted to include social distancing and adjusted workouts to reduce close interactions and are usually in the mid-to upper 30s per night."

2) What is your background in track/running if any?

"I have always loved to run. As a kid, it was always fun to race and run fast, and then I joined the track team at Killian High School my senior year and learned to run the 400m. I ran on the University of Miami track team my freshman year and competed in the 800m. After that, I have always loved to run and to be a part of something fun and athletic that brings people together. I have competed in many 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and the New York, Chicago and Miami Marathons as well as many triathlons. I have the pleasure to co-coach the club with Mark Gomes under normal non-Covid circumstances. Mark is the former 2016 world masters champion in the 400 meters and is a true expert in the science of training for track and field as well as a good friend."

3) What does a typical "practice" look like each week?

"Each Monday at 7 PM, we start near the start/finish line at the Flamingo Park track and begin with a two-lap warm-up jog, then dynamic stretches and speed technique drills. These days during Covid, we are targeting a total time workout that usually is 25:00 and will feature a variety of speed intervals that are followed by a 100m walk recovery. We also have rolling starts and have designed the workout so that people are not grouped close together during the start or finish of the workout. For example, last night our workout was 800m/600m/400m/600m/400m/ then repeat 200m intervals until a total time of 25:00 was reached (each followed by a 100m recovery walk). Each week is different, and this allows each group member to get the most out of each workout depending on their fitness level and total time. We finish every workout with an intense core workout and a stretch session."

4) What should our readers know if they would like to attend?

"Everyone is welcome regardless of speed or fitness level. We love to bring everyone together to have fun running with fantastic people from all over the world and mix in a lot of encouragement and a personal touch for each and every runner who comes by to join in."

5) Anything else you want readers to know about the track club?

"South Beach Track Club is free, and our workouts usually go from 7 PM - 8:20 PM or so. Free parking is on 12th street next to the track and also in the parking lot next to the pool and tennis courts on 11th street. We can be found on Instagram @southbeachtrackclub and on Facebook at South Beach Track Club. Each workout is posted about before and after on Facebook and after as well on Instagram."

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54D will be rewarding frontline workers for their extraordinary effort during the current COVID-19 pandemic by granting nominees free access to their online program.

Launched March 12, the “Heroes” initiative will offer frontline workers the possibility to get their daily exercise done safely at home while they continue pushing forward in face of the current challenges. 54D will grant 5,400 select candidates access to their signature online program 54D ON. The first selected participants will join the Gen 16 starting March 29, with thousands of other frontline workers joining during the course of several successive generations of 54D ON.

“Throughout all of 2020, we have seen how millions of brave women and men from all over the world have risen to face the challenges presented by the pandemic,” said Rodrigo Garduño, founder at 54D. “It is now time to recognize their gargantuan effort, by providing them a platform to reward themselves for all of the love and dedication they have provided to others, caring for their lives.”

Frontline participants of 54D ON will be guided every single day with daily tasks, with the 54D team monitoring their progress and activity through the platform. 54D ON delivers results through a no-excuses, full-commitment approach to fitness.  The first selected participants will join 54D ON’s 16th Generation, starting March 29 with thousands of other frontline workers joining during the course of several successive generations of 54D ON

“This is the best way for us to say ‘thank you’ to all of the frontline workers who have put their lives on hold for a full year, sacrificing their own needs for the sake of others,” said Garduño “We are a global human transformation movement, therefore those caring for other people’s lives deserve our utmost respect”.

54D's 9-week online program is divided into three specialized areas including physical training, as well as tutorials on nutrition and recovery. The program was developed to offer existing members and newcomers an opportunity to follow the brand’s high-intensity programs from anywhere around the globe at any time of day.

The call is now open to frontline workers from all over the world at www.54d.com/heroes. Friends and family of frontline workers will be able to nominate their heroes using the hashtag #54Dheroes, to be considered for 5,400 free 54D ON programs.  

“We want to thank all of the frontline workers for not giving up, for being our heroes,” said 54D CEO Omar Yunes. “This is why we want to recognize them with a free transformation program, as a way of thanking them for their strength, commitment and courage, focused on saving lives every day.”

54D currently has locations in Coral Gables, Colombia, and Mexico, and recently announced plans for a second South Florida location in the Miami Design District as part of its U.S. expansion plans.

Global fundraising run Wings for Life will be held on May 9, 2021, virtually through their app. While participants will be running alone, the app connects the global field of participants and offers an integrated listening experience.

“I think it's great that the Wings for Life World Run is happening this year no matter what. This means runners already have a goal and motivation at the start of the 2021 running season, both of which are incredibly important for regular training”, said Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics. “Running has become an important outlet for many people, especially during these challenging times. And the event also links participants virtually across all national borders. This has always been an important responsibility of sport.”

During the Wings for Life World Run, all runners and wheelchair users start at exactly the same time of 11:00 UTC. 30 minutes after the start gun, the Catcher Car gets going and starts its chase of participants. It will gradually get faster and pass participant after participant. Once passed by the Catcher Car, you have successfully completed the run. Everyone is a finisher in the Wings for Life World Run. 

Since 2014, the Wings for Life World Run community has been running together every May for those who can't. Whether as part of a Flagship Run, Organized App Run, or simply individually by taking part with the App, with their entry fees, the runners and wheelchair users support the Wings for Life foundation with the goal to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. 

“I’m really looking forward to this year and the Wings for Life World Run. Not only because we do good together, but also because it is incredible fun being part of the run,” said Anita Gerhardter, CEO of Wings for Life. “Covid-19 presented us with many restrictions. Fortunately, many of them are only temporary. People with spinal cord injuries, on the other hand, have to struggle with severe limitations throughout their lives. We want to change that. That’s why I’m excited about anyone joining us on May 9 and helping us to find a cure.” 

So far, a total of 700,000 registered participants from 195 nations has been recorded, 4.3 million miles have been run and close to $36 million have been received by Wings for Life in the form of entry fees and donations.

Set your own personal goal, sign up for this year’s race, or find out more information at their website www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.

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House of Transformation is making it easy for you to start living a more healthy lifestyle. Regardless of where you are at in your fitness journey, House of Transformation will help you thrive.

Located in the Edgewater neighborhood of Miami, House of Transformation falls right in between group fitness and personal training. They call their style assisted coaching and it means more customization and accountability at a more affordable price point.

The magic behind the transformations at this gym is the strategy that the owners and trainers put into creating a healthy lifestyle. During the first session, an InBody machine is used to determine body fat percentage and set a realistic goal. All new members start with a three-week introductory plan meant to get them comfortable with both the gym and a regular workout routine.

"From there, it is all about making the process as simple as possible so that it becomes a ritual for someone," said House of Transformation owner and coach Luis Buron.

All members have a custom workout to follow based on their own personal goals and needs. Workouts are provided to members via an app and are updated every three weeks. The goal of programming that way is to foster comfortability and encourage progressive overloading, which Buron says is how the real body recomposition takes place. Over time, members are encouraged to add components to their routine, including setting nutritional goals or incorporating outside workouts. 

Personal connection is very important at House of Transformation and even the floor coaches are very hands-on. At any given time, there is one trainer on the floor to a maximum of 4 trainees, and they are assisting members with weights and form.  In addition to the assisted coaching, there is also the option to train one-on-one with a personal trainer.

"What I love about the House is that we don’t have anything special. Yet when you look at our schedule almost every single hour is sold out," said Buron. "The value we provide is different - it’s the energy and connection you feel when you walk in, the clarity in the plan specifically for you, and the certainty of creating change because we test our strategies. We don’t sell you a result, we invite you to the journey."

Coaching is available on a package basis at $29 per session and there are no contracts or minimum commitments. Right now new members get their first two sessions free.

Keep things simple and check out House of Transformation at 350 NE 24th St Unit 102 in Miami, online at houseot.com or on Instagram at @house.of.transformation.

Ky Evans has a long background in fitness and now he is bringing his expertise to the Miami community. While he can be found coaching at FORM50 Fitness in Midtown, Evans also has a lot going on as a group fitness strategist and Chief Educational Officer for Group Fitness Academy. 

Evans, a trained ballet dancer who minored in ballet in college, translated his love of movement to a passion for fitness. In Los Angeles, Evans grew his following and regularly had month-long waiting lists for his classes. His client roster included names like Ronda Rousey, Jonathan Van Ness, and Paris Hilton. 

“I was homeless for a few years in Los Angeles, living in and out of my car up to the age of 34, battling a few demons,” said Evans. “It was group fitness that saved me.  It gave me hope and that’s what I want to instill in everyone else – hope, that if you’re brave enough to fail in front of strangers, you really can do anything.”

Most recently pre-COVID, Evans had been traveling the country helping group fitness coaches and owners through in-studio private seminars. He is interested in giving back to the fitness community by sharing his knowledge, experience, and even missteps with other instructors and studio owners around the world. That was his goal in co-founding Group Fitness Academy (GFA), a source for on-demand online courses and strategy sessions for fitness professionals.

Through GFA, Evans and his team are transforming trainers into “enterTRAINers” by helping them design their own branded workout experience, create their own loyal following, and improve their retention and attrition rates.

“I made a lot of mistakes in my career and I’ve definitely learned from them and now I want to give back and help other coaches not make those same mistakes,” said Evans. “I had to hit rock bottom in Austin and lose everything to realize the purpose of being a true coach.”

While Evans had a phase of never wanting to share his knowledge, he is now happy to mentor coaches, clients, and owners, and empower them. He believes in always being at the service of his community and strives to create an all-inclusive fitness industry where every BODY is welcome. Evans also thinks that there is no greater time than today’s uncertain climate to come together as a fitness community. 

“I’m looking forward to people coming back to workout in studios and gyms.  Don’t get me wrong I love online workouts and education… But there is something that just can’t be replaced by being in person and together,” said Evans, who is planning upcoming rooftop workouts and coaching retreats at the Moxy Hotel in South Beach.

“And of course – I’m looking forward to exploring the fitness and food scene in Miami.  I definitely plan to get out to Muscle Beach and check out a lot of the boutique fitness studios all around. I couldn’t love this community more!  Everyone is amazing – there is so much talent among the coaches, clients, and brands.  I’ve been welcomed with open arms among the fitness community in Miami and I couldn’t be more grateful."

More information on Ky Evans and the Group Fitness Academy can be found on Instagram, KyEvans.com, and Facebook.

JETSET MIAMI is partnering with the Centner Family to open their newest and fifth location in Edgewater, Miami. Located at 2063 Biscayne Blvd, 2nd Floor, this follows the opening of JETSET’s largest studio in Sunset Harbour last September. 

Leila and David Centner, founders of the David and Leila Centner Family Foundation Inc. and Centner Academy, have partnered with JETSET MIAMI, becoming one of the company’s newest investors and part-owner. 

“We felt Edgewater is a perfect spot to continue our growth in the core Miami market:  Edgewater is central and has seen a tremendous increase in the population of younger professionals and families,” said Tamara Galinsky, founder of JETSET MIAMI.

JETSET MIAMI uses custom reformers to merge strength training, Pilates, and cardio in a modern Pilates method. The studio creates its own training program and holds training for new instructors every three months. 

The company currently has four other studios located throughout Miami, in Brickell, South Miami, Miami Beach, and Sunset Harbour. Reformers at all studios have been spaced apart to respect clients’ personal space, health, and safety during the COVID pandemic. 

“JETSET method is particularly growing during this pandemic as it allows customers to stay on their dedicated JETSET reformer, and feel safe, all while experiencing one of the most effective full-body conditioning fitness classes available today,” stated Galinsky. “Classes are small with 10- 12 people per class.” 

Look out for pre-opening specials! For more information on JETSET MIAMI, head to www.jetsetmiami.com or check them out on Instagram at @jetset_miami_pilates.