
The Athlete Spotlight: Meet Lexie Learmann
Beauty, charm, humility and kindness. Who says you can’t have it all?!
We caught up with AYBL Athlete, Lexie Learmann, who showed us that you absolutely can.
We’ve been fortunate enough to work with Lexie for a few months now, so it’s likely you will have seen her all over our Instagram and TikTok, especially during our Summer Sale. But, today, we want to show you a side of the TikTok star that you don’t necessarily get to see every day.
During our chat together, we discovered what inspired her to share her fitness journey, her proudest and most challenging moment so far and what’s next on her agenda - and let’s just say, it’s big!
HEY LEXIE! TELL US, WHEN DID YOU START YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SHARE IT ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
I started my fitness journey in January 2021, when I got my very first gym membership. What inspired me to do so was that I was big into sports, like basketball, soccer and track, but because of Covid, those sports didn’t happen. However, I still wanted to stay in shape and be healthy, so I decided to start going to the gym.
As for sharing it on social media, I basically just started creating TikToks for fun, posting random videos of whatever was trending. I got a lot of comments about what my workout routine was and because, at that point, I was consistently going to the gym, I just started sharing my journey. I was really nervous at first, but I just kept doing it because I thought it was fun and it just went from there.
DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS OR ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO IS LOOKING TO START SHARING THEIR FITNESS JOURNEY ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
My number one thing would be to stay consistent regardless of what other people may think or comment and even if you feel nervous - that’s normal! I really think staying consistent and continuing to create content will pay off and it will eventually reach the audience that you want it to. As long as you’re happy with what you’re posting, it will do well.
I know I was so nervous to start posting, I would think to myself ‘OMG, what are people going to think?’ and people did say stuff, like ‘the wannabe influencer’. But it just shows how hard you’ve worked to come from a place where you’re super vulnerable to your content being a success.
WHAT DOES YOUR TYPICAL WEEKLY WORKOUT ROUTINE LOOK LIKE?
I workout about five to six times per week - normally five times just because of my schedule and I do love my rest days, so five times is perfect for me.
My week consists of:
- Monday: Lower body (quads and glutes);
- Tuesday: Upper body (back and arms or push day);
- Wednesday: Glutes, including heavy compound lifts;
- Thursday: Rest;
- Friday: Full body session or push;
- Saturday/Sunday: Cardio and abs.
@lexielearmann TIME TO TAP IN😮💨 #fyp #gymtok #beaybl #routine #glutesworkout ♬ She Make It Clap - Soulja Boy
WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST AND MOST CHALLENGING MOMENT SO FAR IN REGARDS TO YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY?
My biggest challenge would honestly be just staying consistent, especially with starting my fitness journey during Covid. It was very hard to go out without feeling like you were being judged even if it was to better yourself. Also, mentally, there were a lot of days when I did not have the motivation to go and I felt I wasn’t seeing any progress, so that really demotivated me. It took a lot of discipline to go to the gym and keep going, but once I overcame that, I started seeing the most progress.
I think one of my proudest moments would be when I first looked back at the pictures I started taking of myself at the beginning of my fitness journey. I don’t take a lot, but I took enough to see the difference between what I look like now versus then. But I haven’t just seen a difference physically, mentally, I feel much more confident about where I’m going and what I’m doing and I think that just made me feel really proud of myself and all of the work that I’ve put in.
I really wish I took more photos. You don’t realise until you’re so far into your journey how far you’ve actually come and it’s when you look at those photos or videos, you realise ‘my body really is changing!’ and it can motivate you even more.
WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES YOUR SOCIAL CONTENT SO SUCCESSFUL?
It’s all happened really fast. In my head, I think my age has some role in it just because of how young I am - I was still in high school when I first started blowing up. Also, the fact that I have a twin sister, I feel a lot of people have found that super interesting.
I think a massive part is because I’m consistent with posting content and even responding to comments. I’m always reading my comments, as I’m interested in what people want to see from me, whether that’s my fitness routine or what I eat. I’m always willing to create content that my audience wants to see.
I feel like I’m just super real and honest about my journey and what works for me. I also think YouTube and Instagram Stories have really helped, as it’s meant people can see more chatty content from both Ana and I and get to know us on a more personal level. People love seeing the connection we have and how close we are.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING AN AYBL ATHLETE AND WHY?
When I first met Chloe (Sponsorship Executive) and Dan (Sponsorship Manager), they were super approachable, super nice and super welcoming and I just feel like they give off such good vibes. I think that’s really important when it comes to working with people and brands.
When we went to LA and met the other athletes, it just felt like a family. That was my first time meeting them and they were all super nice and we were all hyping each other up and I feel like it’s such a good thing to be a part of.
Also, the clothes make me feel great when lifting and working out.
Having all of this is really hard to find. Being with a brand that wants you to be successful too is another thing I look for in partnerships. You guys just do such a good job and I couldn’t ask to be part of a better community.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE IN LA FOR OUR SUMMER SALE? WHAT DID YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR TIME THERE?
Oh my gosh, I don’t even know where to start! Ana and I were just stunned by how well you guys treated us. I was so amazed! I’ve never been on a brand trip like that before and it couldn’t have been a better experience for us.
You even thought of little things, like laying out food in the room - it was just so nice and I wasn’t expecting any of that. You guys have honestly set our expectations so high!
When we were at the shoots, you guys were always hyping us up, you had lots of cool ideas and were always giving us something to do. We also got to talk to you on a personal level which was great. It was so fun and you guys honestly made it amazing!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE AYBL COLLECTION OR SET AND WHY?
Ooo that’s a good one!
I think my favourite collection would probably be the Motion Collection or Balance V2 just because I love the colours, especially the new ones (see more here).
I absolutely love the Motion Seamless Cycling Shorts, they’re like the perfect length for me and the colours are just insane, they make me look so good and tanned! I just feel really good when working out in them.
Also, I really love the Evolve Animal Seamless sets, especially in Light Grey. It looks good on everyone, it hugs all the right places and it’s great for all kinds of workouts.
I’ve also just received the new collection of Essential Sports Bras and I absolutely love the Essential Bandeau Sports Bra, it fits so nicely and my followers love them too!
DO YOU HAVE ANY TOP TIPS FOR OUR FEMALE COMMUNITY TO HELP THEM MAINTAIN THEIR FITNESS MOTIVATION AND ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS?
Doing it for yourself is one of my biggest things. Having that motivation to do it for you and no one else will bring you a long way.
Staying consistent is another really big thing - in fact, I think consistency is more important than motivation because motivation will only get you so far.
Take progress pics to see how far you’ve come. When it comes to pushing yourself, looking back at what progress you’ve made can really help give you that extra push.
Finally, push yourself! There’s a lot of things that you might be scared of doing in the gym, whether that’s using different equipment or doing different exercises, but once you start feeling more comfortable in that space, you’ll be confident enough to try something else.
WHAT DOES THE REST OF 2022 LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
I actually have a lot coming up. I just graduated high school, so going to college is a really big step for me - I’m going to major in Nutrition.
I’m also moving into a new apartment soon, which is so crazy! It’s in a different area, so it’s going to be such a big culture and lifestyle shock for me.
In terms of my fitness goals, I really want to work on my squat depth. Being an athlete has put a lot of hardship on my knees and muscles, so I’m really trying to work on that. I have bad knee pain - when I was younger, I had Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease. The doctors used to think I’d grow to over six feet tall because by fifth grade, I was 5 feet 6 inches. My knees took a beating when it came to sport.
I’ve got lots going on and I’m super excited, yet super nervous.
We just love her and we know you do too!
Want to kick back with more of our AYBL Athletes? Catch up with Elena Stavinoha here.
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Your 5-Minute Mental Health Check Up
Hey there! How are you feeling?
That’s a question we don’t ask ourselves enough.
It’s quite normal for us to schedule an appointment with the dentist or doctor to check our oral and physical health, so why is it less common to check on our mental health?
So many factors are closely related to our mental health, which is why it’s important to address the small changes and approaches we can take to prioritise and care for our mental wellbeing.
According to research, one in five US adults experience a mental health problem of some kind each year, while in England, as many as one in four people experience the same issue.
That’s why, for Mental Health Awareness Week, we’ve created a quick and easy five-minute mental health check you can do every day, anywhere.
WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH?
Mental health is how you feel in your mind and your mood. Just like your physical health, it depends on many factors, including your genetics, your environment, your circumstances, what you do to maintain it, and underlying physical or mental health conditions you may suffer from, and how they are treated.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from Monday 15th May to Sunday 21st May, addresses anxiety. Anxiety is an emotion we all experience, but sometimes it can get out of control and cause issues for our mental health.
In a survey of 3,000 adults, 34% said they experienced anxiety.
HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
Here are just a few things you can ask yourself or do to ensure you’re doing what you can to protect your emotional wellness.
HAVE I DRANK ENOUGH WATER?
Keeping hydrated is key for both your physical and mental health. When you don’t drink enough water and start to become dehydrated, your body triggers warning signals that you’re in a ‘life-threatening’ situation and starts kicking up stress hormones, particularly cortisol. An increase in cortisol is connected to anxiety, depression and mood disorders.
Carry a bottle of water with you to keep your hydration levels topped up. If you’re someone who likes more structure, you can use alarms or trackers to remind you that drinking water is part of your self-care.
HAVE I EATEN THE RIGHT FOODS TO FUEL MY BODY?
Diet and lifestyle can have a profound effect on our mood and research reveals there’s a direct link between what we eat and how we feel.
There are plenty of foods and nutrients that can put a smile on your face and make you feel awesome. When we’re stressed, it’s tempting to reach for comfort foods like pizza and sugary snacks that give us a temporary ‘high’. However, these foods can soon leave you feeling exhausted, jittery or sluggish.
Food high in fibre, as well as fruit, veg, nuts and seeds are more beneficial to your mental health. Discover our very own nutritious mood-boosting recipes here.
DID I GET ENOUGH SLEEP?
Anyone who has struggled with sleep will know what a difference it makes to our bodies, minds and ability to function.
For many people, sleep is often the first thing that suffers when they’re struggling with their mental health. The CDC recommends adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep a day.
If you’re struggling with your sleep, there are a few simple changes you can make, including:
- Establish a bedtime routine;
- Avoid tech and caffeine before you go to sleep;
- Practice meditation/relaxation.
READ MORE: How To Fix Your Sleep Schedule
GET OUTSIDE
Humans are hardwired to need time in nature, as we evolved to prefer environments where we had fresh water, sunlight, and nature because those provided us with the resources we needed to survive. But, nowadays, nature doesn’t just allow us to survive, it helps us to thrive.
Spending even small bursts of time outdoors can greatly benefit your mental wellbeing. A 2019 study found that spending just 20 minutes outside significantly lowered stress hormone levels.
MOVE YOUR BODY
Okay, so this one is our thing for sure. Keeping active has so many benefits, mentally and physically - from lifting weights to flowing yoga.
Regular movement throughout the day can boost your mood, reduce stress and refocus your mind.
Partner some fresh air with your movement to elevate the benefits - and kill two birds with one stone.
Explore our guided workouts and fitness tips here.
REACH OUT TO FRIENDS
Human connections actually boost feel-good neurotransmitters in your brain. The key is not how many friends you have, but to surround yourself with those whom you can be your most authentic self.
Be honest with yourself about how much time you need to spend with your friends to feel fulfilled, refreshed and empowered, and then make it happen - even if it’s just a catch-up dinner once a month, it makes a difference.
Meeting new people can be equally beneficial to your mental wellbeing, as studies have shown that connecting with strangers can help us feel happier and more connected with our communities.
WHAT AM I DOING TODAY THAT I CAN LOOK FORWARD TO?
Planning things to look forward to or that you enjoy doing can help us cope with difficult situations by increasing our sense of hope.
Whether it’s something as small as binge-watching your favourite TV series or something more extravagant like a weekend away with friends, factoring in time to do what you love will help you adopt a more positive outlook each day.
A huge part of prioritising your mental wellbeing is learning to understand and manage your feelings.
When we’re upset, we don’t always know why we’re feeling that way. It often helps to acknowledge our feelings without any judgement or telling ourselves we’re ‘weak’ for feeling the way we do.
We all have good days and bad days, and that’s okay. However, by asking ourselves the questions in this article and adopting these simple habits, we can work toward feeling like our best selves once again. Remember, rest is a basic human need.
How To Start Running
The hardest part of running? Getting out the door.
Running is a great way to get fit and feel better, but sometimes, a lack of motivation - or even know-how - can catch you short.
Starting a new running habit needn’t be difficult - all you need is a good pair of running shoes and the willingness to move a little or a lot, all at your own pace.
To help put you one stride ahead, we’ve pulled together the very best running tips for beginners, so you can get off to a safe start and enjoy hitting the tarmac (or treadmill).
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO RUNNING
THE BENEFITS OF RUNNING
If enjoyment alone isn’t enough to get you increasing your stride, perhaps the proven health benefits of running will?
Running is one of the most effective ways to increase daily activity, cardiovascular fitness and mental health. It also is widely accessible, as you don’t need any fancy equipment, it’s relatively inexpensive and you can do it just about anywhere.
Here are some of the other key health benefits of running:
- Promotes muscle development;
- Can help aid weight loss;
- Helps to relieve stress levels;
- Boosts the release of endorphins, sometimes called a ‘runner’s high’;
- Increases bone strength and joint health;
- Promotes better sleep;
- Increases lung capacity, metabolism and energy levels;
- Reduces cholesterol levels and risk of heart disease.
GETTING STARTED
Whether you’re new to running or getting back to it after a long break, it’s really important to ease yourself in and gradually build up to avoid injury. Here are some top tips to get your started on the right foot.
Now, we’re not saying you need to go out and buy a wardrobe full of expensive new running kit, but what we are saying is that staying equipped for the environment and surface you’ll be running on is non-negotiable.
Start by investing in a suitable pair of running shoes that fit comfortably and offer extra support, cushioning and grip for your runs.
When it comes to the clothing, well, that’s where we step in. Fusing form and functionality, our Pace Collection is designed for practicality - with soft, lightweight and breathable details - so you can run with ease and without distraction.
Take measured steps to keep your body safe and free from injury. Warming-up is an essential part of any workout, especially running. We recommend walking or doing an easy jog for five to 10 minutes before increasing your intensity. You may also benefit from warm-up exercises, such as dynamic stretches.
Be mindful of other safety advice, such as running against the flow of traffic and carrying your mobile with you at all times.
READ MORE: Top Tips For Staying Safe When Running In The Dark
Nothing can get you lost in the moment quite like blasting your beats as you pound the pavement.
We all have our own taste in music, which makes it all the more important to pick a playlist that’ll motivate you to power through, even when times get tough, with the wind against you and the heavens pouring.
If you need a little inspo, we’ve got plenty of tracks to keep you moving. Check out our Spotify here.
OUR TOP SIX RUNNING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
Now that we’ve established the basics, you’re probably wondering exactly how to start running?
Here’s how…
If you’re totally new to running, chances are your motivation levels are pretty high. That being said, it’s as important as ever to pace yourself. This includes your running speed, intensity and training frequency.
Don’t be afraid to start off with a few fast paced walks each week to build up confidence, condition your muscles and create a positive habit you can stick to. Pacing yourself will allow you to continue progressing and reduce your risk of injury.
The likelihood of strains, repetitive stress and foot pain tends to be greater during your first few weeks of running as a beginner, or if you’re returning to running after a long break.
The Run-Walk Method is a great way for new runners to get started, helping to build endurance with less joint stress and is a manageable intensity level.
The method combines running with intervals of walking. Start by alternating one minute intervals of running with one minute of walking, and then gradually try to increase the time spent running. As you become more comfortable, reduce the time spent walking.
Check out our beginner’s running plan further down this page.
Never underestimate the power of rest.
It’s completely natural for your muscles to feel a little sorer than usual, but if you’re experiencing genuine pain or discomfort, it’s crucial you allow it time to rest and recover.
If you’re suffering from sore muscles, more likely than not, it’s DOMS - AKA delayed onset muscle soreness. This is the aching or stiffness you experience as a result of intense training, however, this should subside within 48 hours.
Avoiding exercise altogether can actually prolong DOMS, so consider lower intensity exercise, such as walking, mobility and slow jogging to increase blood flow and relieve your muscle fatigue.
Chances are, you already knew this, but if not, you’ll soon learn that eating well and staying hydrated can significantly influence your runs.
You lose water through sweat, whether cold or hot, so you need to drink before, during, and after your runs. You ideally want to drink 120 ml to 180 ml of water every 20 minutes, but pay attention to your thirst level and drink when you feel thirsty. During longer workouts (90 minutes or more), some of your fluid intake should include a sports drink to replace sodium and other minerals (electrolytes).
In terms of nutrition, it’s best to eat something light and high in carbohydrates but low in fat, protein and fibre. Aim to finish eating 90 to 120 minutes before you start running.
If you’re running for longer than 90 minutes, you’ll need to replace some of the energy you’re burning. A general rule of thumb is to consume 100 calories after an hour and another 100 calories every 45 minutes.
It’s easy to neglect other aspects of your fitness and strength when starting your running journey. Balancing your running sessions with other forms of resistance training and exercise will help to build muscular resilience, reducing your risk of injury and boosting performance.
Repeatedly hitting the road without building strength in the gym can not only lead to injury, but a performance plateau too. Be sure to balance out your training with strength-based exercises to work on muscular endurance, speed, power and potential imbalances - all of which will help with your running in the long run.
You can find plenty of guided workout routines and strength-building exercises, like our Back & Shoulder Workout, on our Fitness page.
Running is a natural movement, but that doesn’t mean you can’t improve aspects of your running form to improve your experience and efficiency.
First things first, keep your posture upright. Keep your head lifted, your back long and tall and shoulders level but relaxed. Maintain a neutral pelvis and ensure you’re not leaning forward or back at your waist.
Likewise, it’s important to monitor your footstrike - this is the way your foot hits the pavement. You might land on your heel, in the middle of your foot, or on your toes or forefoot. It’s recommended that you should try to land in the middle of your foot, and then roll through to the front of your toes. However, if you’re naturally a toe runner (land on your toes) or heel striker, it may be best not to change your stride.
READ MORE: The Principles Of Good Form With Caroline Gravity
RUNNING PLAN FOR BEGINNERS
Without a clear idea of what you’re trying to achieve, and the steps you need to take to get there, you’re making the challenge much tougher than it needs to be.
That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate running plan for beginners.