ROCK THIS WHEN YOU'RE SET TO TAKE OVER THE ZOOM

Read the Oct Issue #58 of Athleisure Mag and see Rock This When You’re Set to Take Over the Zoom in mag.

9LIST STORI3S | KIM KIMBLE

Read the Aug Issue of Athleisure Mag #56 and see 9LIST STORI3S | KIM KIMBLE in mag.

9LIST STORI3S | LAURA DERN

Read the June Issue #54 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST STORI3S | Laura Dern in mag.

IN OUR BAG | FOR A HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Read the June Issue #54 of Athleisure Mag and see In Our Bag | For a Holiday Weekend in mag.

HOW TO DRESS FOR SPRING BREAK ADULTING

Read the Feb Issue of Athleisure Mag and see How to Dress For Spring Break Adulting in mag.

5 PIECES TO ADD TO YOUR FITNESS WARDROBE

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag and see 5 Pieces to Add To Your Fitness Wardrobe in mag.

HOW TO DRESS | FOR TROPICAL GETAWAYS

Read more from the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see How to Dress for Tropical Getaways in mag.

5 KICKS FOR INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE STUDIO

Read more from the Aug Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 5 Kicks for Inside and Outside of the Studio in mag.

IN & OUT OF THE CAGE WITH CODY GARBRANT

There are a number of sports that we enjoy watching and MMA is on our list. We had the chance to find out more about MMA fighter, Cody Garbrandt from how he came into the sport, what it takes to say fit and ready in the sport, how much fighting takes place each year, being a new father and about his new book that is out next month. 

ATHLEISURE MAG:  When did you realize that you wanted to be an MMA fighter and what was your journey like in terms of making your way into the sport as well as joining the UFC?

CODY GARBRANDT: Early in my life, I knew that was what I wanted. I watched it on TV, my uncle was an amateur boxer, and my mom put me into wrestling at a young age, so I was around it plenty. Plus, I enjoyed it…I grinded. From being tigers, doing wrestling camps, working hard at practice, I really wanted to be great. Eventually, I got into boxing and then transitioned into the cage as a teenager, and set my mind towards becoming a world champion from the very beginning.

AM: Do you have mentors in this sport that assisted you on your way up?

CG: Yeah, I had a lot of them. Some were actual coaches and others were just people who I admired. For example, my pee-wee football and high school wrestling coaches gave me a lot of guidance throughout my life. As motivators, my Uncle Robert, who is my wrestling coach now, and of course my mom, were two people in my life that were always there for me, and I really appreciate them.

AM: We have interviewed a number of athletes from wrestlers, Olympians, NFL members and more. What is a typical workout like for you in terms of just maintaining your body versus what you do for a fight?

CG: The difference between some other sports and UFC is that other sports have an off season. We have to train all year round as if we are in season because at any moment we could be told we have a fight in two weeks, and that fight could be the “Super Bowl” of fights to us. So, if you’re not ready on any given day, you’re going to have a hard time being successful. I switch up my routines from day-to-day though, some days I’ll do spar training more, some days I’ll do more pad sessions or focus on strength. Everyday though, I do martial arts training with some of the best in the business in addition to those other workouts.

AM: In your sport, what is your schedule like in terms of how many fights you tend to do in a year?

CG: Realistically, the human body can only undergo so many fights in a certain period of time. For me, that’s about three fights per year, but once when I was still coming up and doing everything I could to get experience, I did eight fights in one month. In 2016, when I went from unranked to becoming the world champion, I did four fights that year. But on average, I’d say people fight about three times in a year. 

AM: We know that you're a new dad and you have a beautiful wife and family, how do you balance your time in terms of being with your family as well as having date nights?

CG: That’s definitely something we’re currently addressing, and with Kai just being born, we are trying to find the best ways to work it all out. Since it’s just me and Danny out here, if we go out to dinner, we take Kai along with us. But I love coming home every day, and when I leave to say goodbye, being able to kiss them both and work for them motivates me so much to take care of them and set up as best of a future as I possibly can. My friends and family told me what it was going to be like to have a kid, and they said it was seriously going to be "life changing", but I never really believed them until it happened. My wife and son have given me so much more purpose. 

AM: With you next fight coming up this summer with T.J. Dillashaw, what is the mental prep like for this fight when it's the day of the match?

CG: Fight day is all mental. The physical part is entirely done by then, so you have to prepare yourself mentally for the fact that another man is trying to get in a ring with you and hurt you. Aside from a quick morning workout the day of the fight, which we call a “shake out” to get out all of the junk and get a good sweat in, I make sure I relax, spend some time with my family, and try not to focus too hard on it. My final step is right before I go out, I say a prayer for strength, honor, and courage in the ring. 

AM: What is on your playlist when you're training?

CG: I actually have a really diverse selection, but I’m a country boy sometimes. I also really like rap and some Celine Dion. When I’m training though, I listen to a mixture of Post Malone, G-Eazy, Drake, The Game, Eminem, and even James Bay when I want to go for a couple hour jog. 

AM: We know that The Pact is coming out May 8th. Can you tell us about the process of making it, what it covers and what you want fans and readers to learn from this book?

CG: The process was just something that came forward and all about meeting the right people. I was trying to do it a while ago and now it just lined up perfectly with everything. I want people to be inspired and learn to chase their dream no matter the obstacle, and let people know that Maddux came into my life when I needed new direction. There is growth within life, and sometimes you have to bury down and blast through hardships. 

AM: What is your personal style like as we know you wear great suits and you have cool athleisure style. What's your style for training, running errands/hanging with friends and then date night with your wife?

CG: For training, I see some guys who wear those really tight shorts that go to your thigh, but I prefer just a nice simple pair of workout shorts. On top though, I wear Onnit bamboo shirts, which are really nice to workout in since I like my outfit to be as breathable as possible. I usually have to change multiple times in a workout. 

At home though, I’m in total dad-mode…sweatpants and t-shirts all the time. If I’m going to go out, I have few favorite designers, like Amari, John Elliott, Daniel Patrick, Da Vinci, and Gucci. I even work with a company out of Sacramento called R. Douglas that I make a lot of custom suits with and wear out on nice occasions.  

AM: Of all your tattoos, which one is your favorite or most significant and what is the story behind it?

CG: The tattoo of Jesus on my left shoulder that I got when I was fifteen. I added it at a time when I was really dedicated to going to church a lot and was growing my relationship spiritually. 

AM: Your based in Sacramento, when you are there, where can we find you grabbing a meal, going shopping and to go to a fitness studio in the area when you are adding to your work out?

CG: In town, my wife always wants to go to her favorite sushi place, Mikuni. We probably go there close to three times a week. But, if you don’t see me there, my favorite workout spot is P2O, which I go to for hot yoga and fitness classes.

AM: We've been going through your IG account and we love seeing your wife pop up in pictures - does she have a background in fighting too?

CG: Her father is from Thailand and he was a Muay Thai fighter, so sometimes she goes there to train. 

AM: Many athletes that we talk to talk about entrepreneurial endeavors that they are apart of in the sport. Should we expect to see you creating a clothing line or other projects?

CG: It’s definitely something I want to work on and have actually discussed in great detail with some people. Ideally, fashion is the place for me to go. Something involving workout clothes and styles, maybe try to spark some new trends. 

AM: How do you give of your time? 

CG: Yeah, I have a friend who works with Make-A-Wish in Sacramento, so I volunteer with them whenever I can. I also help with Strike for Kids and Rock Steady Boxing, who runs programs at my gym. I see people trying to live their life and succeed when they are faced with a lot of adversity, and it motivates me to be a better person and do everything possible to help. 

AM: Is there anything that you would like to share with us that we have not covered?

CG: I definitely want to mention my dog, Canelo. Give a follow to canelo_garbrandt, he lives a good life. 

PHOTOS COURTESY | CODY GARBRANDT
 

Read more from the April Issue and see In & Out of the Cage with Cod Garbrandt in mag.

ATHLEISURE MAG | VALENTINE'S DAY GUIDE 2018

We've kicked off the new year and already, we're thinking about gifting our loved ones, from our significant others as well as others we have love for. As always, we have some ideas you should keep in mind as we think about Valentine's Day next month!

FOR HER | ATH MAG VDG 2018

We like to think of Valentine's Day as a prep for the Spring with items that you love or will fall in love with! Here's what we have on our list - now you can find ways to hint to your honey
about what you want.

| L'OCCITANE Delicious Almond Body Collection | TWO OF MOST Semicircle Charm | TOM
FORD Diane Sunglasses | ANYA LUST Jessica Cut Out Bandeau Swimsuit | VIRGINS SAINTS AND ANGELS San Benito Grande Ring | ARDEN COVE Anti-Theft Full Crossbody With Chain |

FOR THEM | ATH MAG VDG 2018

Enjoy the day or night together with items that both of you can enjoy! We have a few items
that are perfect ways to include in your day of love (and beyond).

| NEST FRAGRANCES Japanese Black Currant | MOCHIDOKI Mochi Ice Cream | SEMPLI Vaso
Sake Set | SUGARFINA Vodka is Always a Good Idea Bento Box® | MEISSEN Sushi Set, Sushi de
Luxe | TAIKUN Japanese Shochu |

FOR HIM I ATH MAG VDG 2018

We've got a few things on our list for him that he can enjoy on Valentine's Day and the rest of
the year - whether he's solo or you're living for #CoupleGoals - this is what you should get him.

| PUBLIC SCHOOL WNL Reflective Feather Snapback | JOHN HARDY Naga Charm Pendant
with Silver Sheen Obsidian | GUCCI Le Marché Des Merveilles 38mm | ADIDAS NMD_CS2
Primeknit Shoes | MAISON MARGIELA 'Atelier' Print Backpack | UFC X REEBOK UFC Fight Night Conor McGregor Champ Walkout Hoodie |

Read more from the Jan Issue and see Athleisure Mag | Valentine's Day Guide 2018 in mag.

#TRIBEGOALS

On Aug 21st, we will experience a solar eclipse; however, you can visit NASA's site to see the best cities where you will see the total solar eclipse. We suggest viewing it from Westin Nashville's L27 Rooftop Bar to enjoy this phenomenon and to rock this look!

| JAY GODFREY Brunet Neon Coral Strapless Romper | URBAN DECAY Naked Skin ShapeShifter | GUCCI Patent Leather Sandal | 

Read more from the July issue and see #TRIBEGOALS Recommended for your Tribe to eat, work and play in mag.

THE MORNING AFTER | GOLDEN GLOBES STYLE: THE MEN OF THE RED CARPET

The men of the red carpet looked dashing and fun as they made their way! We will update more information on each one's look.

Check out more celebrities, their interviews, and more!

| CHRIS PINE GIORGIO ARMANI Suit | DONALD GLOVER GUCCI Suit | MILO VENTIMIGLIA RALPH LAUREN Suit | JEREMY RENNER Suit |

| Pictures courtesy of Frazer Harrison/Getty Images | REX Shutterstock (bottom left) |

THE HOUSE OF GUCCI

When it comes to heritage houses, the standard was set with Gucci, as they brought iconic luxury together in a way that no one had previously thought. Thanks to Aldo Gucci's vision, the house gave accessibility in a global way as a trailblazer in collaborations, such as Cadillac as well as its focus and fight against counterfeit goods. This month, Patricia Gucci, released, "In the Name of Gucci: A Memoir". 

We took a moment to sit down with author and daughter, Patricia Gucci on why she created this book, how her father Aldo would view the heritage of his brand, and what she is up to at the moment.

ATHLEISURE MAG: In reading the book, it started as a journey for you to put together the things that you heard, talked about as well as read from letters between your family. In the end, you note that it was also a means to understand more about how you came to be and to connect with your mother and father in a new way. Now that the book is out, how would you define the purpose of creating this book within your life?

PATRICIA GUCCI: The purpose of the book was to pay tribute to my father and the legacy he left behind - for my daughters and our extended family, for Gucci, and the 'Made in Italy' label.  Researching the origins of Gucci as a business and the early days of my parents' courtship turned into one big puzzle and I soon discovered that there were many missing pieces.  Conversations with my mother and the discovery of the love letters my father had written to her, helped complete the picture.

AM: Throughout your book, you share a number of roles you had within Gucci from organizing fashion shows, modeling for the brand, visual merchandising and more - can you share all the things that you were able to do within this brand?

PG: I worked at Gucci for 7 years - from 1981 - 1987. I was first tasked with creating window displays in our North American stores, then coordinating fashion shows and representing the company in the capacity of Roving Ambassador in the US and Asia. At 21, I was the first (and last) woman in the family to be appointed to the Gucci Board of Directors.

AM: After the sale of Gucci to InvestCorp, what has been your relationship to the brand and have you done anything on its behalf?

PG: Post the sale of Gucci to InvestCorp I had no further ties with company. 

AM: Are you still connected to various members of the Gucci family and what was the process of sharing this book with them?

PG: I have little or no connection with other members of the Gucci family.  My half-brothers (only one of whom is still alive) were much older than me - old enough to be my father - and as a result it was awkward to form relationships. Not only are my nieces and nephews older than me, they were raised predominantly in Italy while I lived mostly in the UK, US and Switzerland. 

AM: If your father was to see Gucci today from its products, endorsements and other engagements - what do you think he would say?

PG: Gucci today is a success and the brand is one of the most recognizable in the world across any sector, as ubiquitous as Coca Cola.  To see his heritage live on like this, with the rhombi design, interlocking Gs and the Gucci loafer still going strong, would undoubtably have made him happy.   

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AM: Are there currently any Gucci stores in the US - specifically Beverly Hills and here in NYC, that are in the original locations that your father worked on to open?

PG: The Beverly Hills store is still in the same location; Gucci was the very first Italian luxury brand to open on Rodeo Drive. In New York, in the 1950s, there were three stores in walking distance of one another on Fifth Avenue, in what became known as 'Gucci City.'  Today, those stores have relocated but the Palm Beach at 150 Worth Avenue remains in its original location.

AM: What was like life during the 10 years that you were unable to work at Gucci, talk about the details etc?

PG: The gag order years were difficult because I had to stand by and watch my father's legacy being swept under the rug.  That was painful to see. As with most new regimes, it's often out-with-the-old and in-with-the- new.  When my cousin Maurizio took over, it was no exception. In the years that ensued the business took a turn for the worse and it wasn't until Tom Ford was brought in that Gucci was returned to its leadership position.    

AM: What is the power of luxury to you? 

PG: Private planes - luxury can give the illusion of power.    

AM: Gucci was a pioneer in many of its approaches to business including collaborating with Cadillac, having you as the first female board member of the company - what other firsts do you feel it created?

PG: Gucci's collaboration with Cadillac was a significant 'first,' as was the Gucci Galleria, which combined works of art with merchandise in a setting that had never been seen before, earning my father the title of Michelangelo of Merchandising. President John F Kennedy called him 'the first Italian Ambassador of Fashion.'  My appointment to the Board of Directors was a first for the family business.  For me, the most important first was opening the Gucci store on Fifth Avenue in 1953, effectively establishing 'Made in Italy' as a global brand in its own right.

AM: What brands are "Gucci's in the making" (in your opinion) from the craftsmanship, being made in the place of origin that the company is based in, focus on luxury and pushing the envelope to place itself as a lifestyle and not just an assortment of products?   

PG: I doubt there will ever be another 'Gucci in the making.' We live in different times, there is a lot of competition, fashion has been largely commoditised, there is less and less individuality between one brand and another. The Gucci phenomenon of the 1960s, '70s and '80s is unlikely to be repeated.  

AM: In addition to raising your family and writing this book, what are you working on or what do you do - do you believe you would return to the issue in some manner?

PG: There are some projects in the works but I can't talk about them at this time. In terms of fashion, although it is unlikely, who knows?

AM: What was your favorite position when you were worked within Gucci?

PG: Definitely when I worked as Fashion Coordinator, putting our shows together and working on the window displays.  That gave me the room to express myself creatively and having my father's approval meant the world to me.

A must read for May, "In the Name of Gucci: A Memoir" by Patricia Gucci is available now.

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Read more from the May issue