Hey Rosés,

Black Girls Run! NYC chapter at the More-Fitness Magazine Half Marathon
Image via Megan White

As a long time fitness enthusiast, I frequent the gym and love to try the newest quirkiest classes out there. Yet, at this past Sunday’s More Magazine-Fitness Magazine Half Marathon my body was shocked, pushed and stretched to lengths I never knew I could achieve! With the help of my friends, family and my intoxicatingly supportive running group, the New York City chapter of Black Girls Run!, I made it through the 13.1 miles and steep hills of Central Park, inspiring others and myself in my biggest physical and mental challenge yet.

I finished! 13.1 miles!

Too often the beauty industry highlights outer beauty while the fashion industry (though much improved) still paints unrealistic portraits of body image. At Champagne Beauty, I truly believe in “Sparkling beauty for unique skin,” but more importantly, sparkling beauty for unique and healthy lives.

Let’s take a look at 3 ways to jump start your spring/summer health and fitness plans, because healthy has always been the new beauty:

SoulCycle offers upbeat and unique spin classes

1. Fitness Is The New Happy Hour

Skip the drinks and heavy appetizers, instead invite a friend, date, or even a client to a fitness party in the evening. Try something fun like a dance class like Zumba, a cult spin class like Soul Cycle nationwide, or simply enjoy the warm weather with a 30 minute jog in the park. Black Girls Run! is a nationwide supportive running group for women of all ages, ethnicities and skill levels, membership is open to all women.

Image via Getty

2. Fitness Is The New Commute

Next time you go to work, an event or the store, park your car a little further or get off the subway one stop earlier and walk. In NYC, if you get on one station later (about 10 city blocks) and get off one station earlier (about 10 city blocks) right there in your morning commute you’ve already walked one mile (20 city blocks)!

Image via Getty

3. Whole Foods Are The New Beauty

At an event last week, I met a woman who swore by only organic beauty products as she stuffed a larger than life Cheeto in her mouth followed by a huge swig of Coke. I’m no nutritionist, but uh…perhaps she should focus some of that organic willpower to what she puts IN her body, not just on it. Organic and all-natural foods aren’t for everyone but this season take advantage of nature’s summertime gift of fresh fruit and veggies, and lay off the processed foods.

“Teamwork makes the dreamwork” with my friends, family and Black Girls Run teammates:
Kalia, Mikelle, Chenelle, Jade and Stacey
Main Image via Megan White

BONUS: Fitness Buddies Are The New Independent Women!

Yeah you can do it by yourself, but having a partner is proven for better results and staying on track with your goals, and in my case above, literally helping you cross that finish line. Plus they might actually need you more than you need them, be someone’s inspiration today!

What are your fitness goals for this season?

Taste the beautiful life ~ Alicia