This summer, or fall, dip your toes into exercise. If you do it with us, we promise to go slow. This past long weekend, we enjoyed some time at the cottage and the beach. Although bath time is much easier now than a few months ago, dipping Ted’s toes into Georgian Bay was not so warmly received. Have you ever felt this way about exercise? While some version of sensory overload may be inevitable, edge into your wellness routine this upcoming season, and just like Ted and the beach — we hope that some day you may like it too.

Many years ago, on a continent far away — Lauryn and I were on our honeymoon moon, exploring Paris in August. Courtesy of Anthony Bourdain’s travel show “The Layover”, we had our list of things to eat, see and do. Yet, when we arrived at many of the destinations starred on our map, it was obvious that the owners had packed up and were closed for the month. Since then (12 years ago), we too have dreamed of an extended summer holiday styled after the French Aoûtiens.

This year has already been very special to us. 12 years of marriage, 11 years of business, 10 years of building ownership, and 4 months of being parents to Ted. Everyone says time goes by fast, and just in time for another cliché, the clock continues to tick. The other day someone told us that no one has ever said “I wish I worked more, and that I took less vacation.” So, this month was our chance, and we decided to take it!

We know that time away from the studio for us, and you means a variety of things. Some down time, a sleep-in (ya right!), and other changes to the routine like ice cream on consecutive days. But, in no way does that mean we’ve lost our interest in B+B, or that you have lost your mojo, strength or ability to move. In our business we crave connection, between the mind and body, teacher and pupil. This month, look for ways to connect to your neighbourhood or city in recreational ways that may be a forgotten favourite, or part of your new desire to keep fit while having some fun in the sun.

Hangout in the park — I was biking around town the other day, and came across two parks that we have hung-out at before. At the Old Brighton School, and behind the fire station at Riverside Park, you might not have to look too far from home to find a play structure that may be intended for a younger generation, but may give you just the right amount of fun and fitness inspiration.

Start making a racquet —Enjoy a cool morning, or hot summer night on the hard court, or at the table top. Improve your hand-eye coordination, have fun with a friend, and rally for a little bit of fitness with just a little bit of finesse. You don’t have to be hardcore. Nor, keep score. Just, grab a paddle or racquet and ping-pong along.

Walk. Every day — By now, its trite, but all the professionals must be right, and collectively say nothing benefits the body and brain quite like a walk. Improve circulation, enjoy fresh air, see the birds while watching out for the bees, just unlock your door, walk to the end of the street, and explore one step at a time. Realize the benefits to your health with the simplicity and sustainability of a leisurely walk.

So, in our time away from the gym, we intend to do all of these things and more. As always, we look forward to resuming our training sessions and fitness inspired friendships with you in September.

Take care,

Ian, Lauryn and Ted

Away, but Active.