Chloe's Corner: A New Orleans Fitness Enthusiast's Must-Haves
Growing up in lively New Orleans, striking a balance between healthy choices and the irresistible allure of mouthwatering cuisine, never seemed like an easy feat—especially with the constant whirlwind of festivities and that sticky humidity always lingering in the air. But hey, as the years pass and I've had the chance to meet some incredible souls like my best friend Chloe, I've come to realize that New Orleans is low-key a goldmine for living your best, healthiest life. Seriously, have you ever noticed how everyone down here just radiates good vibes?
So, let me introduce you to Chloe— the ultimate wellness guru. She's not just your run-of-the-mill nutrition coach or personal trainer; she's basically a one-woman powerhouse with a B.S. in health and wellness and exercise science. Like, is there anything this girl can't do? Chloe's been my rock when it comes to taking care of myself, showing me the ropes on how to prioritize my health and happiness. Plus, she's got this wisdom that makes you forget she's only in her twenties!
Today, I'm beyond stoked to have Chloe spill her secrets on all of her favorite wellness and fitness essentials, alongside dishing out some of the best spots in NOLA for getting your sweat on and treating yourself. Let's dive into Chloe's world of health and happiness amidst the vibrant backdrop of the Big Easy:
Looking at New Orleans from afar, it is easy to assume that you cannot live a healthy lifestyle in a city that is known for its drive-through daiquiris, gourmet fried, spicy foods, 24-hour open bars, festivals, parades, balls, and open container law. I mean even our city slogan is “les bon temps rouler” let the good times roll, so it is easy for people to see this city as one big party scene. However, in the past couple of years, Nola has started changing and molding into a health and wellness hotspot! There are many hidden gems in Nola that inspire true natural beauty and health. Vibrant Market (supplements, biohacking), Fit Therapy (fitness), Spyre (yoga, meditation, fitness, coffee, juices, snacks), Yes Yoga (hot yoga), Green Fork (healthy snacks, smoothies, juices, meals), True Food Kitchen (healthy lunch, dinner, mocktails) are just a few of the local spots that are inspiring positive and healthy lifestyles.
workout gear
My favorite workout clothes are Beach Riot, Alo, and Wiskii Active. I love the fabric, colors, and fit of these brands. I am a fan of solid bright colors, not a print girl, and these brands keep it simple yet are different and stylish, especially Wiskii active with the scallop cutouts. My favorite shoes are Vivobarefoot because they are flat, wide around the toes, and are the closest thing to being barefoot, which is very important for balance, foot/ankle strength, and stability.
supplements
I am not huge on taking supplements because I think it is more beneficial and worthwhile to get vitamins from food sources, that our bodies can recognize and absorb. However, I am very into gut health, so I do take Cymbiotika pre and probiotics, Ion gut support, and mass enzymes (digestive enzymes). I get all of these supplements from Vibrant Market. Every health issue relates back to the gut, so I think it is very important to support your gut as much as possible.
healthy snacks
I am not a big snacker but when I am in a hurry and have to eat on the go, I like Epic grass-fed venison bars, which are just pure grass-fed venison pepper and sea salt. I also like the That’s It bar which is just blueberries and apples. I also eat hard-boiled eggs and avocados as snacks too. I like to keep it simple when it comes to food, the fewer ingredients the better!
local health food and Clean Beauty stores
My favorite local health and clean beauty store is hands down, Vibrant Market. They are a health, wellness, beauty, and biohacking store and spa that only carries the highest quality supplements, teas, clothing, and biohacking equipment, and provides 5-star spa services. All of their makeup and skincare is 100% clean free of harmful fragrances, dyes, chemicals, etc. Their supplements are the highest grade. 100% pure real ingredients. If you are trying to cut back on alcohol, Vibrant Market has you covered with delicious booze-free alternatives and fun mixer ideas. And in their biohacking spa, they have a hot and cold plunge, Joov red light therapy, PEMF machine, Lymphatic drainage suit, and Infrared sauna. This is all state-of-the-art equipment designed to help you detox, heal, recover, and feel your best! For healthy, organic lunches, snacks, prepared dinners and meals, juices and smoothies Green Fork is hands down the best spot in Nola. You can trust that all of the food is high quality, organic, and tastes great! If you are in a time crunch, don’t have time to prepare lunch/dinner, want to do a three-day cleanse, or just want a smoothie or juice on the go Green Fork has you covered!
local places for wellness treatments
Spyre Center is my go-to meditation spot in Nola. My favorite yoga studio is Yes Yoga, I am a hot yoga girl, and they have the best-heated room by far! My favorite spa treatments, especially facial, are at Vibrant Market with Nurdan (she is amazing truly life-changing! Her treatments have helped to completely cleared up my stubborn acne!). Vibrant Market also has a great masseuse on staff, I have heard wonderful things about his deep tissue massage.
local fitness studios/instructors/classes
My favorite local, boutique fitness studio is Fit Therapy. It is very results-driven, mostly strength, resistance, and HIIT training studio. They have state-of-the-art, badass equipment, the prettiest and cleanest environment, and everyone (clients and staff) is so friendly and welcoming. It is an amazing, lighthearted environment that takes pride in building relationships and helping people reach their goals. If you are looking for more cardio-based classes Swoot and Hype Haus are two new studios known for their high-energy, fun spin classes.
Follow Chloe on Instagram here for wellness tips, recipes, workouts, and more! Visit Chloe’s website here.