Latest news with #Reformer
Yahoo
17 minutes ago
- General
- Yahoo
The Topline: The end of the line?
Get a load of these guys. I wrote a lot about wolves, apparently. (Getty Images) Welcome to The Topline, a weekly roundup of the big numbers driving the Minnesota news cycle, as well as the smaller ones that you might have missed. This week: the bottom line. Well Reformers, this is it: the final Topline. Call it the Bottom Line? As this is my last day here, I thought I'd do something a little more self-indulgent than usual and look back at my time at the Reformer, by the numbers. I started at the Reformer on July 18, 2022, making my tenure just a hair under three years. My first story was about wolf attacks, and how they benefit far-right politicians. I published 309 stories in total, including this one, which works out to about one byline every 3.4 calendar days. The most widely-read story I worked on was this one from March about then-Sen. Justin Eichorn's arrest in an underage prostitution sting, although if I recall correctly Michelle Griffith actually did most of the work on it. My most-read solo piece was a November 2023 story about how wolves weren't responsible for that year's disappointing deer hunt. Judging by the state of my inbox at the time, many of those pageviews were hate-clicks from angry guys looking for any excuse to go shoot a wolf. Journalism's not just about the hate-clicks, of course: You're also trying to change things for the better. To that end, my stories inspired three pieces of legislation in St. Paul this year. The first was a bill providing grant money to help solve non-fatal shootings in the state. This came about after I wrote last year about data showing more than half of violent crimes in Minnesota go unsolved. The second would have reformed how so-called 'drug free zones' can be policed after I reported on the aggressive and frankly bizarre drug charging practices used by a prosecutor in Polk County (and basically nowhere else). The third, and the only signed into law this term, was the bill that finally decriminalized bong water in the state. It was inspired by my reporting on Jessica Beske of Fargo, who was staring down the barrel of a 30-year prison term after cops alleged they'd found a bong used to smoke methamphetamine in her car. That case, incidentally, also came out of Polk County. Some very strange things happening up there! It's also worth noting that these stories didn't just arise out of a vacuum. The Reformer had done extensive work on violent crime clearance rates long before I showed up. And Jessica Beske reached out to us only because she had read Deena Winter's prior reporting on drug paraphernalia reform at the legislature. One of the things that drew me to the Reformer in the first place was editor Patrick Coolican's characterization of it as a newsroom that would tell the stories other news organizations can't or won't tell. I got a first-hand taste of this shortly after I started, with a piece about former Republican Rep. Donald Raleigh of Blaine, whose name had turned up on a leaked membership roster of the Oath Keepers, a far-right extremist group. Raleigh's defense was that he never actually agreed with the Oath Keepers' ideology, and had only signed up for their email list as part of 'market research' he was doing for a veteran's organization he founded. He also told us that other news outlets, like the Star Tribune and Buzzfeed, had looked into his ties to the group and decided they weren't worth doing a story on. The implication was that we shouldn't be reporting on it either. I strongly disagreed, and Patrick backed me up on this. Raleigh's story was plausible enough, and that's how we framed our piece. But by the time Raleigh had signed up for their newsletter, the Oath Keepers had a well-established reputation as a fringe group with violent tendencies, and they had been the subject of countless media stories. As a voter, I'd want to know if one of my elected officials was signing up to receive communications from extremist groups, for 'market research' or any other purposes. Especially in the post-January 6 era. We ran the story, and Raleigh lost his seat two months later (although that was due more to the effects of the state's recent redistricting than anything else). I'm delighted with my reporting on Senate President Bobby Joe Champion's ethically questionable ties to the Rev. Jerry McAfee for two reasons. The first, and most journalistically obvious reason, is that it shined a light on Minnesota's extremely lax conflict-of-interest laws, and it got a number of lawmakers to acknowledge that they should maybe try to avoid funneling boatloads of grant money to individuals they have professional relationships with outside of the Legislature. It also sparked a Senate ethics inquiry into Champion's actions, which went nowhere given the even balance of power in that body. But the other reason I love this story is how I stumbled across it in the first place: by wasting time on social media. I was hanging out one morning on Twitter (I will never call it 'X'), avoiding whatever story I was supposed to be working on, when I saw some Minneapolis folks making offhand comments about Champion being McAfee's lawyer. It was a jarring moment, as these people were casually discussing the fact as if it were common knowledge, despite it not having been reported anywhere. A quick visit to Minnesota's court records system confirmed what they were saying, and we were off to the races from there. There are two reporting lessons here, I think. The first is that what passes for common knowledge in some communities will come as a shocking revelation to others. The second: Never log off.
Cosmopolitan
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cosmopolitan
5 Athleisure Fashion Trends We're Seeing Everywhere Right Now
We're living in the golden age of activewear, besties. Pilates has become a religion, group workouts are basically social events now, and athleisure is the new everyday uniform. Truly, you can't step out for a matcha run without seeing the same bra and leggings set that was in your heated Reformer class earlier that morning. I'm not complaining though. They're! All! So! Cute!!! I've been deep in the research trenches: doomscrolling TikTok and Reels, people-watching in NYC, and tracking the latest brand drops—all to know what the current athleisure fashion trends are. Here's what's coming in hot: wrap tops, espresso brown everything, double-layered sports bras, capri leggings, and bold contrast detailing. It's the kind of stuff that's practical, cool, and comfortable—aka pieces you'll want to wear even when you don't have exercise on the agenda. Keep scrolling to discover the five hottest athleisure trends—complete with my favorite (read: affordable!) picks—that are about to take over! Get ready for all the compliments about to come your way… Inspired by classic ballet style, wrap tops are the ideal lightweight layer to throw over a sports bra or tank, perfect for rounding out a look and adding just enough warmth on breezy days or in over-air-conditioned studios. Breathable and easy to move in, they keep you cozy without causing a mid-workout sweat fest. Last year, we saw this delicious hue take over everyday wardrobes—and now, it's officially made its way into your activewear drawer. (Maybe we have Sabrina Carpenter to thank?) Either way, it's safe to say this colorway is the new go-to neutral—step aside, black—and honestly, I'm not mad about it. It adds an element of richness and warmth that makes even your simplest gym ensemble feel more elevated. Layering has become a trend in its own right over the past few years, and now, it's showing up in activewear staples like sports bras. The double-bra look (yes, two stacked styles!) is officially A Thing that brings a playful, unexpected twist to your workout 'fit. Plus, a little extra support for the girls? No complaints here. Yes, they're back, and we're fully embracing it. They're the perfect length for warmer days when full-length leggings start to feel too much. Also, they can be quite versatile! Swap your sneakers for kitten heels and your sports bra for a simple cami, and you've got an easy outfit ready for whatever the day (or night) throws at you. With so many styles out there—reversible, butt-lifting, high-waisted, and more—there's something for whatever vibe (or workout) you're going for. As someone who tends to shy away from bold sporty looks, I love a good contrast trim that incorporates dimension and visual structure without pushing me out of my comfort zone. If you want to take it up a notch, go for styles with bright colorways. Or, if you're like me and tend to stick to earth tones, look for pieces that play with subtle accents in a more muted palette. Megan Uy is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, where she searches for the best products in all things fashion, home, beauty, sex, gifts, and more, so you don't have to. When she's not writing for the site, she's whipping up some cool and trendy content for the fashion section of the print magazine. She's been with the brand since 2019 (when she was an itty-bitty editorial fellow), and she's also written for Delish, House Beautiful, and People. Follow her on Instagram to get some BTS of the editor life and chaotic NYC content. Also, feel free to hit her up if you ever wanna discuss the madness that is TikTok.
Elle
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Elle
ELLE Editors Share Their Ultimate Workout Clothes And Accessories
There's a lot of stuff out there, and not all fashion pieces are created equal. Luckily, the ELLE editors know their way around a shopping rail, and when it comes to helping you find those perfect wardrobe building blocks, they're up to the task. From the new and niche brands worth knowing to high-street hits of quality, and a few vintage treasures too, our ELLE Edits showcase the very best of the season. The best activewear clothes and accessories will adapt to an array of activities, whether you're pursuing a PB in your local run club or perfecting a pose in Barre. But beyond the gym floor, the rise of WFH has seen many of us adopt athleisure as everyday wear. We now rely on sculpting leggings that wash well and will look as good when worn for Reformer as meeting friends for a weekend brunch, and trainers that deliver as highly in the style stakes as they do on a mixed trail run. The rapid growth of the UK wellness industry (said to be worth over $223 billion in 2024) has also seen a plethora of new brands enter the market since 2010. The likes of Tala, Sporty and Rich, Adanola, Varley and On have quickly amassed loyal fan bases and impressive social media followings, while LA starlets Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid are often seen wearing athleisure separates to run errands. With many Gen Z and Millennials now choosing a run club over a debauched night out, there exists a wealth of fitness product whether you're seeking to level up in Soul Cycle, F45, Barrecore or strength training. FIND OUT MORE ON ELLE COLLECTIVE Lululemon is loved for its leggings, On counts Zendaya and Mia Regan as fans, and Adanola enlisted Kendall Jenner for an edit having seen gross profits surge by 124% in 2024. We've also witnessed the rise of the Fashion Trainer, spearheaded by Wales Bonner for Adidas, whose cult designs can reach resale prices exceeding $500. But how to choose the correct kit? When seeking separates for high intensity workouts, yoga or Pilates, look for polyester, nylon, elastane and spandex, which are known for their moisture-wicking, breathability, and stretch. More eco-conscious blends of cotton and bamboo will feel soft against the skin and suit lighter movement. Running shoes should offer flexibility and support to cushion your feet, and styles differ for trail running versus flat roads or shorter, more casual runs. As a rule, look for waterproof trainers with mesh vents on the upper to boost airflow and allow any moisture to escape, keeping your feet cooler and reducing the risk of blisters. Gait analysis is often offered free as part of the fitting service in running shoe stores and will help you choose the shoe spec best suited to your foot type, terrain and running motion. Many brands now offer multiple lengths in leggings, whether you're petite, tall, or just fancy the extra coverage, and most gymwear doesn't need to be hand-washed – just use a gentle spin at 30 degrees for a minimal time then air dry. To power up your next workout, we've enlisted a selection of seasoned ELLE editors (who favour a variety of sporting pursuits) to share their favourite gym kit and accessories. 'I alternate between Spin and Reformer classes so need flattering, comfortable leggings that suit both pastimes. With Adanola having achieved cult status (and endorsement from Kaia Gerber, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Emily Ratajkowski) I bought a pair of its Ultimate Leggings and can attest to the product name's bold promise. With a four-way stretch fabric, they have a higher waistline for extra support and contour and come in three lengths – ankle, cropped, and tall. They wash brilliantly and I've been known to pair them with slingbacks and an oversized blazer at weekends. As well as the core collection of neutral colourways like black, navy and brown, there are seasonal drops of new shades. I'll soon be adding the Wrap Over style to basket to tap into the balletcore trend.' - Esther Coombes, Senior Ecommerce Editor, Luxury 'My workouts would be nothing without my Panache sports bra. The underwired style sees me through all sorts of gym activities from rebounding to weights, Pilates to Barre. I appreciate the way it has total coverage to ensure that I am held in place throughout. I was advised during its initial fitting to size up in the band and down in the cup and would recommend you do the same.' - Naomi Pike, Commissioning Editor Paid content 'As a city dweller who travels mostly on foot, I'm keen to track my step count and sleep cycles, so the new Watch Fit 4 Pro from Huawei is high on my wish list. Akin to having a personal wellness coach on your wrist, this stylish new wearable tech tracks your sleep duration and stage chart, and offers real-time monitoring of your ECG, heart rate and oxygen levels. Ranking as one of the lightest smart watch models on the market and with up to 10 days battery time after a full charge, you can choose from three sleek colour ways (I'd opt for Titanium Blue). The Trail Running Mode, with offline contour maps, GPS guidance and terrain-specific stats may influence me to be a little more daring on a weekend run, too.' - Esther Coombes, Senior Ecommerce Editor, Luxury 'My performances in Reformer classes would be nothing without the support of my Lululemon Align tank top; it unwaveringly hoists and hugs in all of the right places so that no matter the contortion of my body, I'm supported. I couldn't be without it (and the Align leggings are fantastic too).' - Naomi May, Deputy Site Editor 'Peloton leggings are a hidden gem. The plain black pair I have are my favourites by far – no underwear visible, they never fall down, hug you the perfect amount and don't fade or bobble (and I've worn them a lot). Their sizing is inclusive (it runs from XS to 3X) and they have an amazing range of patterns and colours. They also now collab with Lululemon. I've loved lots of the sportswear I've tried from the brand, but their leggings need to be tried to be believed. You'll be converted.' - Rhiannon Evans, Site Director 'As someone who sticks mainly to heeled boots or ballet flats, I loathe to wear trainers. But when Lululemon debuted the surprisingly stylish Chargefeel 3 – with their breathable mesh upper, silhouette-smoothing sock upper and featherweight sole – I found myself wanting to wear them outside of the gym, too.' - Abigail Southan, Senior Ecommerce Editor, Fashion and Beauty 'As a Wimbledon native, I like to nod to my heritage and Ralph Lauren's collaboration with the Championships is just the ticket. As Official Outfitter of Wimbledon, Ralph Lauren launches new merch ahead of each year's tennis competition, and this preppy-inspired crew neck jumper will be perfect pre and post workout.' - Esther Coombes, Senior Ecommerce Editor, Luxury 'I never normally read too much into the name of a trainer but the On Cloudmonster 2s really do live up to theirs. Bouncy and beautifully cushioned, I can spring around the park in these and then also wear them to the office.' - Hannah Nathanson, Features Director 'You might know Spanx for its shapewear, but the legendary lingerie brand also does the most amazing activewear, too. As well as the collection's control leggings, I like to slip into this half-zip top which is ludicrously comfy. It's sweat-wicking, so you can workout in it, but I might have been known to wear it with the matching trackies to the pub too...' - Abigail Southan, Senior Ecommerce Editor, Fashion and Beauty Esther Coombes is the Senior Ecommerce Editor at Harper's Bazaar, ELLE and Esquire, overseeing luxury shopping content across fashion, beauty, travel and homes. She graduated from London College of Fashion with a First Class BA in Fashion Journalism in 2010, and has since worked at Marie-Claire, Easy Living, GLAMOUR and Women's Health. She held positions as Senior Fashion and Beauty Executive, Senior Lifestyle Executive and Content Lead during her nine years at HELLO! and HELLO! Fashion, creating editorial and branded content across the lifestyle sector and interviewing talent and experts including Lisa Eldridge, Jo Malone and Katie Jane Hughes for print and digital features. With exacting standards and a critical eye for editing new launches, she enjoys recommending readers best in class products and experiences, be that a glow-giving skin tint, a boutique hotel stay or the perfect slingback stiletto. In her spare time you can find her at a spin or reformer class or streaming the latest zeitgeisty podcast or television drama. You can follow Esther on Instagram at @esthercoombes.
What's On
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
The best new Pilates studios in Dubai
From aesthetic spots in Al Quoz to ladies-only spaces in Jumeirah, these are the perfect Pilates studios for your next stretch session… Pilates is the fitness phenomenon that shows no sign of slowing down in the city. These are Dubai's best new Pilates studios. Plume Studio Plume has transformed a Jumeirah villa into a haven of serenity. The attention to detail is standout, and each of the spaces is thoughtfully curated for maximum relaxation. The ladies-only wellness studio features two studios for yoga and Pilates classes, offering sessions including barre, aerial yoga and Reformer. But there's also a plunge pool that oozes blissful Bali vibes, ice bath and sauna, and a massage room for private treatments. Classes from: Dhs190 Plume Studio, 440a Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 2, 7am to 8.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday. Tel: (0)4 256 6349. @ Brrn Barre Bringing an LA-cool feel to Al Quoz is Brrn Barre. But while the aesthetic may be cool and calm, the classes are anything but – with hot Pilates and hot barre classes the signature workout of this industrial-chic spot. Lift, tone and shape your body with targeted sessions led by expert instructors, all with the added sweat-inducing impact of the hot room. Classes from: Dhs155 Brrn Barre, Warehouse 93, Goshi Warehouse City, Al Quoz, 6am to 8pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 12pm Saturday and Sunday. Tel: (0)4 397 5887. @brrnbarre The Lob Take your workout indoors this summer at The Lob, a new sports club that's transformed an Al Quoz warehouse into a haven for padel, Pilates and yoga enthusiasts. It's got all the facilities for a full day of fitness-based fun: six indoor padel courts decked out in racing green, two studios that offer both movement and mindfulness classes (Reformer Pilates is a regular session in the Align studio), plus a sauna and a healthy restaurant by pioneering biohacking chef, Silvena Rowe. Classes from: Dhs145 The Lob, Street 15, Al Quoz 3, 7am to 11.30pm Monday to Saturday, 7am to 10.30pm Sunday. Tel: (0)52 936 5460. @thisisthelob KōR Bringing mat and Reformer Pilates to a boutique new studio in Dubai Marina is KOR. Founded by passionate instructors Alice and Karolina, they've created a space that feels welcoming and full of energy. Their bespoke KōR Method is also something you'll only find here, which brings a refined approach to strength & control, blending rhythm, resistance, and technique for real results. During the summer, you'll tone up with a session inside their bright and breezy studio, but come the cooler months, they'll be taking classes poolside, overlooking the dazzling Dubai Marina. Classes from: Dhs150 KOR Pilates Dubai, InterContinental Dubai Marina, 7am to 8pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm Saturday and Sunday. Tel: (0)58 903 5912. @korpilatesdubai Reshape, Dubai Marina Building on the success of the original Reshape in DIFC, the brand has opened a second ladies-only space in Dubai Marina. Training is carried out in small groups, meaning you get maximum attention from the instructors so you can really hone your skills. They offer both mat and Reformer Pilates sessions for all levels, led by professional instructors who can adjust to your ability for best results. If you're not into Pilates, they also offer barre, fit-boxing and stretching classes. Classes from: Dhs99 Unit 505, Level 5, Al Fattan Office Tower, Dubai Marina, 7am to 10pm daily. Tel: (0)50 365 0760. @ Blended Blended Wellness has a new address – and is now split over several spaces at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi. Founder Dominique Laird created Blended as a space for women to look and feel their best – and it's inclusive, welcoming and all about community. Go to the hotel's 18th floor for the spa, where you'll find massages, facials and specialised rituals; while beauty treatments take place in a dedicated salon on the ground floor. For workouts, you'll want to head to the Blended studio in a separate building in the grounds for yoga and reformer Pilates. Classes from: Dhs150 Blended, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Al Sufouh, daily from 7am. Tel: (0)4 423 8325. @blendedwellnessdxb Plus, three more coming soon Aera Residents of Azizi Riviera will be pleased to learn that a boutique Pilates studio is opening very soon in the 'hood. Sessions that improve strength, flexibility and overall wellbeing are available as group classes or one-to-one sessions. @aerastudiodxb Soulmvnt Get stronger, leaner and more flexible at Soulmvnt, new in Dubai Design District. Opt for the Lagree class for next-level strength training, or try the high-energy mat Pilates session for maximium impact. Lower-tempo classes come in the form of yoga and sculpt. @soulmvnt Sculpt New to the Arjaan by Rotana Sculpt is a boutique yoga and Pilates studio in the heart of Media City. Oozing the clean girl aesethtic we love to see from wellness hubs, it's light and neutral, and offers classes including reformer Pilates, barre burn and sound healing. @
Tatler Asia
4 days ago
- Health
- Tatler Asia
5 Reasons why more women over 40 are choosing Pilates over any other workout
2. Pilates acknowledges the body's changing needs In your 20s and 30s, fitness goals tend to revolve around aesthetics—burning calories, sculpting muscles, chasing sweat. But by your 40s, priorities shift. Joint sensitivity increases, perimenopause can affect energy and focus, and recovery isn't what it used to be. Many find that traditional high-impact routines no longer serve them. Pilates meets these needs with a method grounded in control and precision. It strengthens deep core and hip muscles, improves balance and coordination, and enhances mobility—without aggravating joints or overexerting the body. For women managing knee pain, lower back issues or general stiffness, it's a practical and science-backed alternative to more aggressive regimens. 3. It promotes longevity and healthy physical aging Pilates doesn't just torch calories—it re-educates the body. It enhances spinal articulation, muscular balance and neuromuscular coordination, which tend to decline with age or sedentary lifestyles. These benefits are particularly crucial for maintaining bone density (which drops during menopause) and reducing the risk of falls through improved proprioception. As longevity replaces weight loss as a key goal, Pilates offers benefits that extend well beyond the studio: better posture, less tension, improved gait and enhanced body awareness. It's not just about how you look—it's about how you live and move, whether you're lifting a toddler or climbing stairs with ease. 4. Pilates can be tailored to accommodate injuries or ailments While Pilates may have become trendy thanks to 'Pilates girlies'—twentysomethings in their Alo co-ords doing impressive reps on the Reformer—at its core remains the principle of adaptability and inclusiveness. Whether someone is newly active, recovering from an injury or dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, a trained instructor can customise a programme that evolves as the body changes. For women who have grown weary of trying to keep up, it offers a rare sense of control and real, measurable progress if taken seriously enough. 5. Pilates is kinder to the hormonal body Hormonal fluctuations in midlife impact nearly every system in a woman's body. Falling oestrogen levels can affect bone density, metabolism, sleep and fat distribution. High-intensity training may actually spike cortisol, compounding fatigue or weight gain. Pilates offers a gentle counterbalance. Its emphasis on diaphragmatic breathing and slow, controlled movement activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce stress and improve mood. Regular practice has been linked to improved sleep, better pelvic floor health and enhanced cognitive clarity—all areas under pressure during the hormonal transition. Women in their 40s are experiencing all kinds of awakenings—some empowering, others uncomfortable. They're not senior citizens, but ageing has started to feel real. Fatigue is constant, while the desire to please, follow trends or subscribe to punishing routines starts to wane. Pilates offers the best of both worlds: it can help a fortysomething feel strong and supple, while acknowledging the realities of ageing. And she can do it with the Pilates girlies in-studio, or solo, at home, on a mat—with full control over how she moves through it all.
