Thursday 23 March 2017

Cyclebox - Get Your Ass to Class

In need of some fitness inspiration - then look no further, Cyclebox is more than you could ever ask for!


Hidden away on Ruthven Lane in the Westend is a studio that's bursting with energy. It promises to get you sweaty, or sparkling if you prefer, and smiling. Cyclebox is a little gem that once discovered there's no going back.

I recently went along to a Blogger's taster session at the studio and after hearing lots of good things about it I was excited to try it out and take the chance to see what it was all about. Cyclebox is essentially a 45 minute workout with a mixture of spin bikes and boxing, working every muscle and giving you a full body work out. It's all about using this time to escape and push your body to its limits, with the endorphin rush acting as the very best stress-reliever.


We started of the class with Mandy aka The Body Sculptor.


And eeeeek it was time to jump on the bikes!


I've never been to a spin quite like it! The whole way through Mandy was like a little ball of energy, dancing about and encouraging us to push it just that little bit further.

Then we were onto the bags with The Wolf, a Muay Thai boxer - sounds tough right, it was!


I've never really tried boxing before, but I'm surprised to say I actually really enjoyed it (despite having to take it a bit easier with a broken finger, doh). The Wolf really worked you out and although it was tough he helped us all the whole way and by the end of each session you definitely feel like you've achieved something.


The best thing about Cyclebox though is without a doubt the amazing atmosphere in the studio.

It really feels like you're working out as part of a team, or as Cyclebox like to call it their 'squad'. You're all in it together and I think this really helps you to push through and completely smash it. I think that the fairly smaller class helps with this as everyone there truly feels part of it and wants to get the most out of it. It's quite simply a fun environment, that you can really struggle to get at a gym. The atmosphere is so great and although the workout is without a doubt tough, you sneakily find yourself enjoying it!


The enthusiasm is infectious and although you've been pushed to your limit at the end you definitely feel a little glow of pride and can finish the class off with a massive grin on your face. It's hardcore, but as Mandy likes to say "but did you die". In a nutshell it's a really positive place to be and although the workout is handwork I have a feeling that you'll kinda love it.

The chic look of the studio also helps it to feel less 'gym-like'.


It's all white floors and walls, with floor-to-ceiling mirrors. The black and white vibe, along with light-up Cyclebox signs, makes it feel really sleek and it's basically how a blogger would design their ideal workout zone!

And after a work out make sure to re-fuel!


We were treated to some tasty juices from Juice Garden. You can just feel the goodness in these green drinks and they're 100% freshly extracted fruit and vegetable, so you know you're giving yourself something good.


The lovely and fabulous Chefarella was also there with some delicious Power Balls. You've got no idea how good these were. So. Damn. Tasty. Definitely check out her insta if you're in need of sme healthy food inspiration.


Cyclebox was just fabulous and was an amazing alternative to your run-of-the-mill gym workout. Definitely try it out if you're a fitness fanatic, or if you're just looking to get yourself kick-started - it's time to 'Get Your Ass to Class!"

Thanks so much for having me!

x x x






Thursday 9 March 2017

Two of My Favourite Things

I love it when two of my favourite things come together - stripes and florals!


Ok so you already probably know that I have a thing for stripes - and if you didn't well hey I love stripes! Basically they form the base of pretty much every outfit I love. My BF always laughs at me when I'm doing the ironing (yes I'm a grown-up) because pretty much every item always seems to be stripes. They're just so easy to wear and make me feel instantly all French and chic - oh lala!

And when I can wear them with my second favourite thing, florals, then I know I'm on to a winner!


This particular stripy top, in my arsenal of breton designs, is a goodie. It's a slightly thicker material and is almost more woollen, but not quite. Basically it's just a bit cosier than a standard cotton top. This makes it perfect for the slightly chillier weather that we still seem to be having (hurry up Spring!) Because I'm a constantly cold person I also popped a top on underneath for an extra layer. The relaxed fit of it means that, if like me, you need some extra warmth it works as a lighter-weight jumper.

Are we all just taking a second to admire the skirt!


(Fake) leather and florals - it's such a star!

I've been spotting the 'embroidery on leather' look a lot lately and I can't lie I kind of love it. You may think they make quite an unlikely pair, but opposites do tend to attract. Gucci has definitely inspired the high-streets take on intricate embroidery and it's surprisingly easy to wear. The beautiful sewn blooms add a feminine touch to the leather, without being overly girlie and make the tough fabric a little softer and more fun. It's just a cute little spin to give your look a bit of an update.



And if thats not enough pattern for you how about a little leopard print?

I got this sweet little bag for Christmas and I'm in love! It's just big enough for my phone, a sized-down purse and, of course, a tube of lipstick. I was actually admiring it in the shops with my Mum when little did I know that Santa (my lovely Gran) had already made a purchase from Marks and Sparks for under the tree. Stripes love a bit of leopard print and this bag is subtle enough to be worn with the combination of florals and breton too. It's also completed with the ring detail that I've been admiring on a whole plethora of bags.

Plain black boots are all you need in the footwear department and don't forget the hat for a little 'je nai sai quoi'!

x x x

Hat - Forever 21 
Top - Topshop 
Skirt - River Island 
Boots - New Look 
Bag - Marks and Spencer