CrossFit SandBox

CrossFit SandBox
925 Wilshire Bvd
Santa Monica, 90401

Type: Indoor, Classes
Category: Exercise
Company: If you like to workout, check it out!
Tip: Bring water, wear sneakers, and get ready to sweat

Review:
As a self-professed hater of plyometrics, I've been known to avoid any exercise regime that even comes close to including pull-ups, burpees, or planks. But then again, I'm also aware of the importance of mixing it up - so, when a friend sent me an invite to his recently opened box (term for a crossfit studio) I thought I'd stop in and try it out.

Huge and clean, to start, which is rare for any kind of gym. Mats and bars on one end, bell-ball weights and rowing machines and stepping stools on the others. At first it looks like it has the potential for torture, but as the whiteboard and clock come in to focus, you'll slowly realize that you are your own competition. I know, what?

Well, each WOD (workout of the day) is written up on a whiteboard and sits next to a stop clock. The class begins with a group warm up, a lesson or two about technique, and then gets to the meat and end by a series of a handful of exercises (the one I did was burpees, squats, kettle lifts, and pull ups). We did this seven times each and for seven rounds. Sure, everyone is going as fast as they can, but the goal is to get a time - and then try to beat it the next time.

Everyone at the SandBox was extremely welcoming, patient, and friendly. I highly recommend giving it a try, and coming from the mouth and muscles of someone who hates short bursts of strenuous movement, it must be worth the salt. Check it out!

Thai Vegan

Thai Vegan
2400 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310.581.4255

Type: Restaurant
Category: Lunch, Dinner, Late-Night
Company: It's rare that I say this, but from the most vegetarian-vegans to the piggiest omnivores!
Cost: $3-$7/dish
Hours: Mon-Thurs, 11am-10pm. Fri-Sun, 11am-10:30pm
A Quickie: It's what we all wonder when we drive/walk by....

So many questions. 

Review: Is it a restaurant? A massage parlor? Hard to tell. Having just moved two blocks away, though, I figured I should set the record straight and explain that Yes, it is a Vegan Thai restaurant and Yes, it's also a massage parlor. And yes...it probably used to sell teak furniture.

Bizzareness aside, the food is truly SO good that every night there is a cluster of people ordering or waiting or eating on the stump-benches next to the store front or inside on stools. And just HOW good, you might ask? Well, to start, it's certainly good enough to survive and thrive given the weird massage? food? conundrum and even better because it successfully surpassed my skepticism that usually gets stuck at anything related to vegan or vegetarian.

Back: Thai Spicy Wrap | Front: Paneang Curry

So back to vegan/vegetarian thai food. It's SUPER tasty, and instead of feeling sort of gross as I usually do after tucking in to beef pad thai or curry or fried-shrimp dumplings, Vegan Thai will feed you and leave you feeling quite pleased with yourself. Every item on the menu contains a hefty serving of veggies+, and the sauces/seasonings are spot-on thai.

OTC Tip: Miss the meat? You'll be tempted to order the "fake chicken/beef/shrimp" for +$2 but DON'T DO IT. It's kinda soggy and unnecessary and tastes like spongy tofu so..Just don't.

The Do's:
1. Order pad thai, curry, dumplings, and the spicy thai wrap
2. Dip everything in the peanut and teriyaki sauce
3. Order in advance for pick-up, the kitchen is slow and the place is popular
4. REVEL in the fact that the curry costs $5 and the pad thai costs $7

Did I forget to rave about the price?? Seriously, everything is $3-$7 which means you can FEAST for two for under $20. And for Thai? In Santa Monica? That's healthy, delicious, and for me, right next door? Yes, I'll probably be turning Thai very very soon as I stop in like once every-other day.

Pad Thai

The Dont's:
1. Order the fake meat. NO!!
2. Forget to check your order - it's occasionally misheard

For big portions and to fuel big appetites from vegan to everything-a-terian, go to Thai Vegan - and if you DO take one for the team and opt in to the menu in the back of the house, DO drop me a line and let me know how the massage is.

Twilight Concerts: Santa Monica Pier

Best Concert Venue in LA

Twilight Concerts: Santa Monica Pier
200 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Type: Outdoors, Seasonal
Category: Entertainment, Happy Hour, Dinner
Company: Everyone who loves SUMMER, BOOZE, and FOOD on the BEACH!
Cost: Free!
Schedule: July 5th-September 6th. Line-Up. 7pm-10pm. Get there early to secure a spot!

OTC Tip: Contrary to website info, the best spots are *not* on the pier but in the sand on the south side. Choosing to sit *on* the pier will result in bag checks, booze confiscation, and the typical concert crowding that is *so* not Santa Monica. Sit on the beach. Trust me.

Review: 
LA likes to battle out which side is the best side - East of the 405 likes to stock up on destinations like Runyon Canyon, restaurants like Animal, shopping through Beverly Hills and thrills like cupcake ATMs. But the Westside has the beach, and come summer there's truly no contest: The Westside IS the Bestside.

But forget your alliance. Summer is for all, and when the Santa Monica Pier decides to throw Thursday evening concerts from July until September you know where a majority of the LA population will be. And you should join us.

Do:
Bring blankets, folding chairs, dinner (sandwiches from Bay Cities, picnics from Tavern, or assorted feasts to share), beer and/or wine. Yes, if you sit in the sand around the pier this is the only time you can drink on the beach without hiding it. Invite your well-behaved dog: he/she is welcome. Park in the lots around 3rd street or the meters off of Main.

Don't:
Fret about the line-up. It all sounds good when you're eating, drinking, and wiggling your toes in the sand. Bring your dressy clothes, work phones, and salty sailors - this us your chance to have happy hour al fresco so take the 3-hour moment to relax. Ride your bike: sure, they have bike valet but last year I remember being the last to leave the beach and walking past a line of 50 deep waiting to re-claim bikes. Yikes.

Enjoy!

Eat|See|Hear

3.5 stories tall and 52 ft wide!

Eat|See|Hear
Outdoor Movies

Type: Outdoor
Category: Summer events, dates, group fun
Company: Everyone who likes food trucks, music, and movies!
Schedule: Food Truck | Movies | Music

Review:
There are few things that Los Angeles loves more than music, movies, and food. So when it’s summer and we’re guaranteed warm weather, there’s nothing that makes us more happy than outdoor events. Introducing the summer series Eat See Hear, we can now listen to a local band before watching an outdoor movie while noshing on food truck fare – every Saturday until September 15^th. Yes, folks: School is out and Summer is in.

Locations: Santa Monica, Westwood, Pasadena, Sherman Oaks, San Pedro, Hollywood, Long Beach, DTLA, and more. Check website for specific locations.

Time: Doors open at 5:30. Band plays at 7. Movie starts at 8:30.

Food: Via truck, the drooltastic likes of CoolHaus, NomNom, Border Grill, Ragin Cajun, Buttemilk, Vizzi. See website for confirmed attendees.

Movies: Classic love/comedy. Upcoming: The Wedding Singer, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, The Goonies, The Big Lebowski, Zoolander (to name a few).

Tips:

Snacks, dinner, dessert

1. You don’t need to arrive at 5:30, unless you want to roam around or have friends to catch up with. If you want to catch the band, arriving at 6:30 would be fine since it’s first-come theatre/grass seating. Just the movie? Get there at 7:30 so you can grab some food before curtains go up.

2. It's summer, but that doesn’t necessarily make the nights hot or the ground soft. Bring a jacket and a blanket or pillow to sit on.

3. Alcohol? Some venues allow it. Check the website and stay classy.

4. Kids? Yes, but most seem to be of the event staff/producers.

5. Tickets? Order online or pay with cash at the door. $10/pp.

6. Fashionably late? Only in LA, but yes, you can purchase passes that give you access to reserved seating (taped off space) so you can arrive at 8 and still grab a prime spot. $20/pp.

Enjoy!

LACMA

Climbable courtyard installation

LACMA
5905 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Follow LACMA on Facebook

Type: Indoors, Outdoors
Category: Entertainment, Art, Food, Drink
Company: Everyone. Seriously.
Cost: $15 for adults ($20 for special exhibits), Seniors and Students $10, 17 and under free

Quickie: Aside from the art, LACMA has kid-friendly art pieces (re: touchable) and young-adult allures (re: an outside bar) which pretty much guarantees you can convince anyone to visit at least once.

OTC Tip: Admission is free for everyone on the 2nd Tuesday of each month and certain Holidays

Ray's and Stark Bar

The Do's:
1. Order tickets online (especially for special exhibits) and save yourself the stress of finding out day-of that your planned visit has been sold out
2. Have a drink and snack at Ray's and Stark Bar (conveniently located in the inner LACMA courtyard) - note: the drinks are stiff and the burger looks like a potential Rustic Canyon rival...
3. If you prefer sustenance on the cheaper side there is a resident line of reputed food trucks on the opposite bank of Wilshire

The Dont's:
1. Go tired or hungry or without a "plan" - LACMA is huge and the more direction you have the better your experience
2. Forget cash - unless you want to troll the surrounding neighborhoods in search for parking, you will want to park in one of the cash-for-parking lots (ranges from $7-$15)

3. Deny yourself a chance to play on one of the fixed outdoor toys! Art is fun.

 I recommend you jump right on

Stand Up Paddle - Go Surf LA

Stand Up Paddle
Go Surf LA
Santa Monica, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, etc
Follow Go Surf LA on Facebook

Type: Outdoors
Category: Fitness, Recreation
Company: Anyone (not afraid of the water)
Cost: $100/ ~2 hours (but I got mine for $48 from Zozi - and YOU can too for 7 more days!)

Quickie: Go NOW before LA remembers it's Fall and not Summer - plus, these guys are great!

OTC Tip: Wear lots of sunscreen (especially under your nose where the water reflection hits) - and if you listen to everything they say, you will be up and paddling within the first 30 minutes of your lesson!

Review:
Despite being absolutely in love with the ocean, I'm a bit of a paralyzed cat when it comes to handling the waves. However, since I'm a firm believer of forcing myself out of my comfort zone once and a while every now and then I enlist myself in an activity that requires me to take the tide head-on.

Since I live in LA for the proximity to the beach, over my excursions I've seen many variations of possible water sports (surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, to name a few) - and for some reason, out of all of them I've always wanted to do stand up paddle. It's probably because it looks like the best of two worlds (surfing and kayaking) and you get work yourself out in to the middle of the ocean sans boat or swim cap and goggles.

Having purchased my Zozi deal earlier in the week, I called Peter to schedule my lesson. Despite aiming for Friday or Saturday, I appreciated Peter's insistence that I wait for Sunday since the waves were slated to be HUGE (oh my terror) throughout the beginning of the weekend. Finding it hard to disagree with anyone who has my back, I nodded to Sunday at 10 am.

As luck would have it, Sunday was a fantastic day. Hot by 10, I forfitted the offer of a wetsuit. I was also thrilled to learn that my group lesson was more semi-private (just two of us!) and after 15 minutes of basics (including how to handle the paddle and what to do if you fall off your board) we set out.

Next came the hardest part for me - the point of ocean sports I fear and reel back from every time - which is the entry. I'm not sure what it is, but the idea of heading in to the ocean at the face of crashing waves just freaks me out. No matter - Chris instructed me how to handle waves should they peak or crash right in front of me (crouch down low!) and with a huge smile pushed me forward.

He was right, of course. After the worst three minutes of the entire day, I managed to get myself through the waves and out in to that only slightly-ribboned bliss that us beach-goers, surfers, and runners can only reach by the cast of a longing gaze.

Next came standing up, which took me four tries (yes, I fell in three times and no, no shark bites!). After getting my balance, we headed out to the green buoy (aka chalet du sea lion) which is about a mile out from out starting point.

OTC Tip: Ask questions! Everything moves pretty slowly out there, so take the opportunity to have your instructor critique your technique. Also, do make sure to request a "speed demo" - if you get Chris, he's a competitive paddle racer, so it will be super fun to watch him crush through the water like he's the boat himself.

After a good hour and some we found ourselves much more steady, totally dry, and ready to head in. Much like a surfer, to get to shore you let the waves push you in - just be careful, you don't want any sneak attacks to send you awry.

I'll be curious to see how I feel tomorrow - I'm pretty sure my poor calves got the brunt of the strain from an hour and a half of balancing - but no matter what, I'm pretty sure I'll be going back. Thanks, Chris & Peter!

The Getty: 21+ Style

The Getty
1200 Getty Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049
Follow the Getty on Facebook

Type: Indoors, Outdoors
Category: Entertainment, Art
Company: Friends, Date, Family
Cost: $15.00 for parking. Museum admission is free!

Quickie: Go during the day for the gardens and the view. Stay at night for the wine and beer - who knew!

OTC Tip: Check out the event calendar for lectures, tours, walks, and "Saturday Nights at The Getty"

Review:
I know, I know - The Getty? One of the most stereotypical "things to do in LA"? Yawn.
But sometimes you just can't escape it. Maybe you have friends visiting from out of town, or perhaps your parents think you need to be more mature and cultured. Don't worry - we've got your back. Here is how you can do the Getty so you aren't just dragging your feet from exhibit to exhibit.

1. Check out the gardens and the view. These never get old.
2. Wine & beer & snacks - sold at the cafe. Note that there isn't a "bag check" or frisking station at any point, so you could probably bring your own bottle of wine or beer. But do keep it classy.
3. Saturdays Off the 405: Once a month, the museum stays open late with music, booze, and food (think night at the museum, 21+ style).
4. And if you want to spend every Saturday night at the Getty, Saturday Nights at The Getty offers musical or theatrical performances (free parking after 5pm).

I highly recommend grabbing a map, touring a few exhibitions/collections/installations, taking a stance outside for some photos with the views, strolling through the gardens, then planting yourself at the outdoor cafe with a glass (or bottle) of wine. Not your parents typical museum tour, eh? I thought not.

Sports Fishing: Marina Del Rey

Snapper

Marina Del Rey Sports Fishing
Dock 52 Fiji Way
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
310.822.3625 

Type: Outdoors
Category: Recreation
Company: Everyone, minus anyone prone to motion sickness
Cost: ~ $64/per adult for a 1/2 day (all inclusive), call for longer trips and other pricing

Quickie: Fresh fish tastes even better when you got up at 6am to catch it. Luckily, if you get obsessed you can go out everyday - MDR runs boats daily (sometimes twice) - even during the week. There's a reason most of these guys have been fishing since they were kids: it's calming, invigorating, marvelous - and absolutely contagious. 

OTC Tip: Make friends with Victor Ramirez, and crew tag-along Steve. They will take care of you all day - from baiting your hook(s) to switching out weights - they'll even clean/fillet your catch. 

Review:
Here's something you don't know about me: one summer while I was in college, I was a fishing guide (and bartender, but I'll save that for another post) at UCLA's alumni summer camp, Bruin Woods. Despite having fly fishing in my blood, there was nothing about me that took easily to the heroic act of gutting over 1000 fish - and while the story has served me well in many areas ever after in my life (job interviews, dates, etc) nonetheless, I haven't been fishing in years.

But as I've mentioned before, I'm at my best near the water. So when the hankering for fish struck me hard last weekend, I decided to look in to it. As happy would have it, I discovered that for a quick trip I  didn't have to drive all the way to Lake Arrowhead - and instead could leave port right from local Marina Del Rey. 

OTC Tip: Call the day before your desired trip and reserve a spot. You don't need to bring anything aside from yourself, warm clothes, sunglasses, a hat, and cash ($80-$100 to be super safe, especially if you want to buy breakfast or snacks from the galley).

I went for the Sunday morning trip that required me to be at the dock at 7:15am. After getting checked in I purchased my ticket, rod rental and bait, and fishing license. Around 7:45 we pushed off, and stood/sat around as our captain escorted the boat to fishing grounds, and the rest of the deckhands accomplished several activities such as chopping bait, rigging rods, and directing those with seasickness to the bathrooms. 

OTC Tip: Some people get seasick, some don't. I didn't - but those who did looked pretty miserable and spent the trip wedged against the deck and the side of the boat. Don't do this to yourself if you get motion sickness - take dramamine.

We spent about three hours "at sea." As my genes would have it, I managed to catch a red snapper and a few mutt rockfish. I'd say about 1/2 of the boat brought home fish - which isn't too shabby. 

OTC Tip: Avoid the crowded stern (back) and fish off the bow (front). It's a bit more awkward to stand because it's pointed, but the fewer the lines the better your chance at hook, line, and dinner.

We got back to land around 12:30, and by 1:30 I was sitting down to a lunch of seared snapper and an ice cold beer. 

OTC Tip: The closest you can get to wronging your fresh fish is overcooking it - otherwise, slow baking, pan-frying, quick-searing or my favorite, butter-bathing, will deliver wonderfully. If you plan on eating your fish after three days of catching, freeze it.

Cheap and Easy Golf

If you're looking for a cheap, quick, and easy afternoon, how about some golf?  LA is home to hundreds of top-tier courses, but also has a variety of cheap Par-3's that won't take all afternoon nor bust your bank account.  Read below for an assortment of options

The Lakes at El Segundo
El Segundo (Map)
Rates: $11 weekday, $14 weekend (non-resident)
This is a great course, especially for the price.  A mix of short and long holes, with two Par 4's mixed into the 9 holes.
Pro: A very well maintained course, with water and bunkers coming into play just enough to keep you on your toes.
Con: The Lakes can get crowded and slow during peak hours, so keep that in mind before you head out.

OTC Tip: If you're anything like me, you like to enjoy a few beers in between hacks, but remember that you will be walking the course, so unless you want double the weight of your bag, stick to a few cans of beer.  Or just bring liquor.

Manhattan Beach Marriott Golf Course

Manhattan Beach (Map)

Rates: $17 weekday, $19 weekend (weekends start at noon on Fridays)

A hidden Par 3 gem in the South Bay, I had driven with a block of the course hundreds of times and never knew it existed.  Tucked behind the Marriot Hotel off of Rosecrans, the 9 holes have a nice array of water hazards and pristine grass

Pro: It tends to stay on the uncrowded side, relative to other courses in the area.  

Con: Somewhat on the pricey side for 9 holes; hard to find. 

OTC Tip: Although all golfers are always expected to follow golf etiquette, remember that these are low-key courses. Don't get too mad at other groups if they break the sacred golf rules, just enjoy the fact that you're hitting a little white ball with a stick for 2 hours.

Alondra Golf Course

Lawndale (Map)

Rates:

Alondra consists of a North and South course, with the South being an 18 hole Par 3.  I've always walked up to the pro shop and never had to wait for more than 10 mins to tee off.  Note that some of the greens relocate, while the distances aren't updated, so if the pin looks 30 yards too far, it probably is.

Pro: Cheap rates for18 holes.

Con: The course isn't in the best shape, with the occasional mat filling in for groomed tee boxes.

OTC Tip: Bring cash to Alondra, or you'll have to use the ATM in the snack bar to pay for your round.

Rancho Park Golf Course

Los Angeles (Map)

Rates: $7 weekday, $8 weekend 

Along with a full 18 hole course, Rancho offers a 9 hole Par 3 on the Pico side of the park.   

Pro: Very cheap course, and short - most golfers can get by with a few wedges, a 9 iron, and a putter. 

Con: Very cheap course - mats are in use on each tee. 

YogaHop

YogaHop
1612 Montana Ave, 2nd floor
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Follow YogaHop on Facebook

Type: Indoor
Category: Fitness and Recreation, Group Classes
Company: A-traditional yogis who like hip-hop, rock, and pop
Cost: 5 Classes $90, 10 Classes $150, 20 Classes $260, Unlimited
 
Quickie: If you are OK with possibly finding yourself
doing The Plow to "Bottoms Up" (Trey Songz), then this is the yoga studio for you. Self-described as "flowing yoga," YogaHop will take you through the typical Power yoga series while swapping the usual meditational soundtrack for - well - music that will make you want to dance.

OTC Tip: Bring your mat, water, and a compass - Yogahop's store front is behind Pinkberry on Montana (and up a staircase).

Two rooms: West and East

This morning I did Downward-Facing Dog to Juvenile's "Back That Ass Up." Now, if the idea of fixating in Warrior Two to 50 Cent makes you cringe - this probably isn't the place for you. But here's the thing: sometimes, I think we yogis take ourselves too seriously. Sure, I'm all for the meditation, mindfulness, and "letting go of my thoughts" - but a few times every month I honestly wouldn't mind silently rocking out while breathing in to Crescent Moon - and YogaHop is just the place for that.

OTC Tip: Check out the schedule here

As you can imagine, the class went by really quickly. The best comparison is the difference between running with and without music - YogaHop offers that extra bit of distraction we all crave when working out. Granted, it's much more awkward if you start singing along when your favorite song comes on - but then again, being sweaty and contorted in braided positions inches away from your neighbor is always treading on shamelessness - so - why not add the cherry. 

OTC Tip: YogaHop is pretty popular. The classes tend to sell out, so make sure you reserve online and go a few minutes early.

The best part is the location of YogaHop - which is right on Montana, across from Sweet Lady Jane and other coffee shops/eateries so you can make a morning/evening of it and eat after your class!

RealRyder Cycling Studio

Does your indoor bike lean like this?

RealRyder Cycling Studio
11677 San Vicente Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90049
Follow RealRyder on Facebook

Type: Indoors
Category: Recreation and Fitness, Group
Company: Everyone
Cost: $18/class, $80/6 classes, $140/12 classes, $240/25 classes

Quickie: Imagine your cushy spin class, then bring it back to the road a notch. While you still won't be moving forward, that's about the only action you'll be spared - these bikes sway back and forth, which provides all the benefits of being on a real bike (like engaging your core muscles) without having to fear cars barreling around you.

OTC Tip: First class is free! Bring your clip-in shoes and water. Little towels are provided.

Review:
They say that some of the best companies are not those that have re-invented the wheel, but those that that have taken the wheel and made it better (or in the case of RealRyder, made the typical stationary bike - well - loose).

Apparently, RealRyder is the name of the bike - the studio is just a franchized facility. As noted, the RealRyder is a bike for indoor cycling that appears to take the best from the world of normal fixed bikes (stable and easy for beginners) and mix it with the best aspects of riding a real road bike (you have to constantly use your core and other muscles to stay off the pavement). In addition, you have the perks associated with a gym class - a (cheer) leader, motivational music, and central air.

Naturally, I had to try it. This morning was my class - and I have to admit, unlike the evenings following my usual spin classes at Kinetic - I'm sore. My abs, my legs, and my arms. I feel as though I took a spin class followed by a pilates class - and then topped it off with a power yoga class. I'd go back, for sure - especially since the schedule boasts classes like Cardio + Core (spinning followed by a floor ab workout). All-inclusive workouts? Yes, please.

The Do's:
1. Ask questions before you start the class. I imagine there are a number of "lean" techniques and other various tips that would eliminate the minutes I spent guesstimating the bike's reactions to my various movements.
2. "Race" your neighboring classmates - you'll get more of a workout when you dig in to your competitive side.
3. Have fun - if you get your bike to sway wildly, it feels somewhat like you are on that 25-cent kiddie ride outside the grocery store.You know, the one you don't fit in anymore.

The Don'ts:
1. Be shy - even if you're a seasoned cyclist, not all bikes are the same. Example: the gears on the RealRyder bikes are controlled by a red knob. It's worth asking if you can't figure it out (same goes for the seat and handle bar settings).
2. Forget to thank your instructor! They just coached you through a hilly and intense "course" - and with a huge smile.

As I've heard before, my instructor (Tim) bid us off with a good morning with a prayer - "May this be the hardest thing you do all day."

Amen.

Tough Mudder

Tough Mudder

Various locations

Follow Tough Mudder on Facebook

Type: Outdoors, Adventure

Category: Entertainment

Company: Masochistic Friends

Cost: Varies depending on when you sign up – between $80 and $180

Quickie: Cross country mud and obstacle race, varying from 10 – 12 miles, incorporating mud pits, elevation changes, ice water, wall climbing, and a dozen other sadistic challenges.

OTC TRAINING TIPS AND ADVICE

OTC Tip: A big pre-race question is what to wear. There isn’t one type that works best for each obstacle, but I recommend a light trail shoe.  You want grip and ankle support, but also something that wont build up weight from the mud and water.  Ditching the shirt is also a good idea - you’ll get scratched, but you’ll also stay drier.  And you’ll avoid nipple chafing.

Review:  Tough Mudder advertises itself as the “Toughest Event on the Planet” and it does a damn good job of backing up the claim.  With races throughout the US (and now in Australia and Japan) about once a month, there are plenty of opportunities to subject yourself to an afternoon of hell.  And yes, I mean that in the best possible way.  Obstacles and distances depend on the local terrain, but you can count on two dozen challenges that will test your physical and mental fortitude.  And in my case, it will test friendships. (My apologies to my buddies whom I managed to talk into running it under the guise of “its fun and easier than advertised”.  Oops)

TM SoCal was my second race; I completed TM NorCal in Oct of 2010. TM SoCal was at least twice as hard as NorCal, and even that might be an understatement.  But consequently, SoCal was twice as fun as I had expected, despite the bloody shins, knees, elbows, nipples (yes, I said nipples), blisters, and sunburns. 

Side note: I use the term “race” very loosely.  TM is big on reminding all participants that it isn’t about winning, but rather the act of finishing.  Obstacles are designed to have be completed with the aid of other Mudders, and there was never a lack of comraderie. Everyone had a positive word to say; not once was anyone negative.  Not even under their breath. It was extremely refreshing to see the human spirit triumph, even after being dunked in 45 degree water.

Between the main obstacles, the course consisted of relentless treks up and down the ski slopes.  I thought snowboarding down double black diamonds was hard enough, but running UP them?  Excruciating.  A quickie highlight reel of some of the more challenging/interesting obstacles follows.

OTC Tip: Check your course map carefully, if there are going to be multiple hill climbs, pick and choose when you want to be an idiot and attempt to sprint up.  I made the mistake of killing myself early on the first major ascent.  

The easy downhill start quickly got real, as multiple snow blowers were positioned to assault runners with sprays of ice water.  10 seconds in, and my ears were already going numb and I was soaked to the core.  And one of my good friends already cursed my name.

After a short queue, I dropped to a full commando position and shimmied through a narrow irrigation ditch.  The “Boa Constrictor” was filled with rocks, mud, and 2 inches of water.  Oh, and there are two of them.  At this point, both forearms were bleeding.  But at least the mud acted as an external coagulant. 

At the top of the next hill awaited a mud pit to crawl through. And I literally mean crawl – the Kiss of Mud is a maze of barbed wire a foot off the ground, to discourage anyone who doesn’t want to get dirty.  At the end, other runners were offering a helping hand to pull/drag me the last few feet past the sharp wires.  How kind.

OTC Tip: Do not wear a Camel-Pak of any type.  Aside from the extra weight, the pack will definitely get caught on the barb wire, as well as other obstacles throughout the course.

The steady line of snow blowers felt like a day at the beach compared with the next challenge – The Blood Bath.  Empty bags of ice taunted us as we were forced to fully submerge ourselves under wooden partitions and climb back out.  The water was cold to the point of completely numbing all senses.  It was hard to think, but luckily natural survival instincts kicked in and I climbed out and chugged (non-ice) water from the first aid station.  And because I’m apparently an idiot, I doubled back and dunked again with the second half of our team. 

Monkey bars, bbq pit, and a log carry from hell met us next.  The monkey bars were a grade-school gym teacher’s wet dream: the bars were loose and slippery; the gaps between each rung weren’t consistently spaced, and they veered up before heading back down.  And TM employees kept a constant spray of cold water on each climber, thus increasing the odds of slipping and landing in the muddy water pit below.

OTC Tip: There was a lot discussion regarding climbing with or without the help of gloves.  Overall, gloves made the entire course easier; not having to worry about splinters is always a plus. However, with slippery monkey bars, there was fear that the gloves would actually worsen the grip.  To test the theory, I completed the bars with and without gloves, and noticed no real difference.   

After the bars was the BBQ pit – wooden tunnels with a clearance of about 3 feet billowing with smoke (dry ice).  Expecting the internal visibility to rival that of Los Angeles during the summer, I was briefly relieved to find that it was just pitch black...which was hiding the fact that the bottom 8 inches consisted of muddy water.

At this point, all of the obstacles were of the quick and physical variety.  That all changed with the log carry.  Runners grabbed a chunk of timber and made a long trek up and back down the slopes. Making it worse was that I could see just how far I had to go up, and in the back of my mind I knew I had to go back down.  About 15% of runners chose to grab a longer log and buddy up.  I made the dumb mistake of choosing one of the largest logs there, and only one buddy to carry it with.

OTC Tip:  Don’t be a hero.  Challenge yourself with the log carry, but don’t take it to the extreme.  There will be plenty of challenges.  

Now the real water challenges were upon us.  First were the Underwater Tunnels – bob under 3 tubes and swim back to shore. Next we had to get across the entire width of the lake, using steel cables to pull our weight across.  But then we had to get BACK across the lake, without the aid of any wires or ropes.  Taking the plunge into the lake off of a 15 foot platform, I realized how difficult swimming with muddy, rock-filled trail shoes is.  To make matters worse, the freezing temperature of the water resulted in numerous runners cramping up and/or having difficulty breathing.  Two members of our team personally helped save two drowning racers we came across.  The lifeguards that were there did a great job, but TM needed to employ about 5 times the number.  It was the only obstacle that was poorly designed, and should be re-designed for future races.

OTC Tip: Don’t listen to any TM employees when they tell you “it’s the last hill climb” – I heard that claim a half dozen times.  Lies.  All lies.

Mixed among the series of death climbs were a variety of fun obstacles.  There was a slicked down ramp/slide, inviting runners to gather their speed and attempt to get a good enough jump to grab hold of the top and pull themselves up.  Other runners stayed at the top to offer a hand or two to make sure everyone could make it up.  It was a great moment of camaraderie and encouragement.  There was also one more water pit, which was essentially a giant downhill slip n slide into a lake, and then a swim/walk across. 

OTC Tip: While diving headfirst is certainly more fun and results in more speed, the face plant into the water was awful.  

The last big obstacle before the homestretch was a series of 4 walls to climb over.  After nine miles of hell, the mere act of getting a good hold on the top was next to impossible, so pulling myself up was serious hell. At this point, spectators lined the run, offering praise and high-fives.  It was a much needed morale boost to finish strong.  Well, until we hit the obstacle at the finish line – electrified wires.  Spaced at 1 foot intervals and spanning a 10 yard square, we were hosed down before sprinting through.  Not every wire was charged, which resulted in the temporary conclusion of “Wow, I might make it without getting..” then BANG.  Similar to touching a bug zapper, the shock twisted my entire body in ways I usually reserve for drunken dance-offs.  Then another BANG.  I managed to make it through with just the two shocks, but I met people who got as many as 5.

The end of the race was filled with random hugs and high-fives, Clif Bars, water, and the best tasting beer I’ve ever had/deserved.



So, was the course comically challenging?  Yes.  Did all of my friends spend equal amounts of time cursing/thanking me for talking them into it?  Definitely.  The only problem now is that I miss it.  Maybe it’s just Stockholm Syndrome, but I’m already excited for the next Tough Mudder I enter.  As the Dos Equis banner at the end of the race reminded us:

   

Hollywood Park Summer Concerts

Hollywood Park Summer Concert Series
1050 South Prairie Ave
Inglewood, CA 90301
Follow Hollywood Park on Facebook

Type: Outdoors
Category: Entertainment, Music, Drinking, Gambling
Company: Large group of friends
Cost: $15 admission, $1 beer (til 9pm), $1 hot dogs and soda all night.

Quickie: Every Friday night at Hollywood Park is part of the Fantastic Friday Summer Concert Series - an evening of horse racing followed by an outdoor concert.  Musical groups tend to be (awesome) cover bands of older pop acts (Prince, Neil Diamond, etc).  Check the schedule to narrow down who you want to see perform.  First race is at 7:05 PM, concert starts around 10:30 (depends on when the last race finishes). 

The Do's: 
1)  Bring a jacket of sorts; it will get cold outside, especially for the concert.
2)  Learn how to make simple bets (see below). Risk a few bucks each race and enjoy screaming at horses and jockeys.  And make at least one underdog bet.  Rooting for a 70-1 favorite is always a blast.
3)  Trust your gut feelings, coin-flips, and any other superstition you have when making bets. You don't know enough about horses to make educated guesses.  You won't figure out the sure thing.  Just have fun with your bets and hope for the best.

The Don'ts:
1)  Listen to your friend who has inside info. He doesn't.  And this way, when he's wrong, you can make fun of him and force him to buy you a dollar beer to make up for his unwarranted hubris.
2)  Take yourself too seriously.  Sure, there are hardcore gamblers there, but remember that you came for fun.  When you lose, laugh it off.  Same if you win. 
3)  Rush to get to the stage after the races.  We aren't talking about thousands of people here - you will end up with a good vantage point regardless of when you arrive.  Hang out with friends, take a restroom break, buy another beer, etc.

How to Bet: 
Betting can get complicated, with multiple horses and races involved.  But if you just want to have fun and keep each race exciting, there are only a few things to note.  

• Choose a horse and remember the number (ie the number 2 horse).  You can bet on the horse to come in first ("win"), come in first OR second ("place") or finish in the top three ("show").  Then just combine the horse and result with a dollar amount.  
• Walk up to the cashier and say "Two dollars on the number 6 horse to place" or whatever you want.  (Note that for these types of bets you need to wager at least $2.)  Hand the cashier your money and keep the ticket in return.
• Should you win, return back to any cashier and present your ticket.  If you lose, rip the ticket up and dramatically toss it in the air, as though the $2 you just lost actually ruined your night.  Then finish your beer and repeat the process. 

Upcoming Bands:  

The Wailers, June 8th
The Jesus and Mary Chain, June 15th

The Annenberg Space For Photography

Exhibit: Extreme Exposure, Michael Nichols

The Annenberg Space For Photography
2000 Avenue of the Stars #10
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Follow TASFP on Facebook

Type: Indoors
Category: Rainy Day, Day after Sunburn
Company: Everyone
Cost: Free! Parking ranges from $1.00-$3.50 depending on the day/time

Quickie: It only takes about an hour to walk through the entire exhibit AND watch the show - so even the most impatient adults/children/boyfriends will be able to handle this "museum" (shhh) - and absolutely love it.

OTC Tip: Save this activity for a rainy day when you want something a little more engaging and enlightening than the movies or the mall.

Review:

They say the best things in life are free, which means in the LA exchange rate you have to pay a buck or two (in this case, for parking). Don't feel bad if the free lunch that just walked up to your plate nags at your curiosity (what's your angle, Annenberg?), especially since you will find yourself so impressed with the (FREE) experience that you won't be able to stop telling everyone you know to go and see for themselves.

Sparing you the Google search, Annenberg was a well-known tycoon, ambassador, and philanthropist. Over his lifetime, Annenberg gave away an estimated half his worth (a number that straddles a handful of billions) to various causes ranging from university groups and orchestras, to community beach houses and museums.

While this explains most of the circumstantial existence, it doesn't quite uncover Annenberg's motivation (I'm sure there are entire books and college psych lectures on this very topic): but don’t waste your mind or energy on thoughts of money and semantics - all you need to know about the Annenberg Space for Photography is that admission is free, it’s open most of the time (unless between shows) and it's one of the most thought/feeling provoking things you can do in LA - so - soak it up.

Extreme Exposure, Donna & Stephen James O'Meara

Rotating every 4-6 months, The Annenberg Space for Photography showcases themed digital and print photography displays accompanied by video reels of the works via "state of the art" visual technology. This "museum," if you will, is literally dedicated toward the betterment of the Los Angelean people by aiming to instigate the "spark" that encourages visitors to believe that they can "be the change they see in the world" (Gandhi).

When I visited back in March, the exhibit was "Extreme Exposure," a highlight of five "extreme photographers" known for braving the most impossible elements to "capture the shot" (example: Clyde Butcher has had malaria 25 times, and Paul Nicklen scuba dives in -40 degree F waters). Despite being of the feather that likes to "get in and get out" of museums, I found myself so enthralled by the quality and magnitude of each photograph, not only did I spend considerable time in front of each photograph reading its description and photographer back-story, but I also sat through the entire video (and I never "just sit").

The next show debuts this weekend (5/21), and even though it sounds stereotypical LA (as it's called "Beauty CULTure"), feel comforted that the collection is much more Warholian in perspective than ENews groupie. Based on the website previews, while images of airbrushed models and plump botoxed lips dominate the screen, I guarantee that the theme of beauty, culture, and impression will trump any initial notion of feeling lost in Elle magazine.

I know, I know - why, you ask, would you want to spend an hour inside this weekend when you could be outside in the lovely Southern California sun? Well, think of it this way - when you get home all sunburned like poached lobster on Saturday and need something to do on Sunday that gets you out of the house and doesn't involve exposure to UV rays - take an hour and check it out.

Cinespia Hollywood Forever Screenings

Cinespia Hollywood Forever Screenings

6000 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Follow Cinespia on Facebook

Type: Outdoors
Category: Entertainment
Company: Dates, Friends
Cost: $10 donation at the gate; $5 parking on-site

Quickie: Monthly screenings of classic Hollywood films projected onto the side of a building at Hollywood Forever cemetery. Outside food and beverages are allowed.

OTC Tip: Bring a blanket or two at the least, although small folding chairs would be ideal. And if you bring wine, don’t forget an opener.

Review: Take a drive-in movie, replace the parking lot with an old cemetery, and trade sitting in cars for picnicking on the grass. What do you get? (No, not the premise to a bad horror film.) Cinespia at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, a monthly event from May to October. Located at the corner of Santa Monica and Gower, Cinespia is the perfect alternative to the usual cookie-cutter romantic comedy date at the local multiplex.

I’ll be the first to admit that the premise sounds weird (and it involved the convincing of a cute girl to get me to go), but the execution is flawless. Once a month on Saturdays, classic movies from days past are screened outdoors in front of a large grass field – devoid of gravestones, don’t worry. Our screening was the 1967 film “Bedazzled” starring Peter Cook, Dudley Moore, and Raquel Welch. Admission is cheaper than a standard movie theater, and it comes with one very good perk – BYOE. That’s right, it’s Bring Your Own Everything, more or less. Food and beverage, including booze, are allowed, along with chairs (nothing so tall that it will hinder others’ views), blankets, pillows, etc. The effect is a cozy picnic vibe that makes it perfect for both a large group of friends as well as a date. Note that “date” and “food” don’t include dogs and BBQs, so leave Fido and Weber at home. And yes, there are restrooms available nearby (in the form of Porta-Potties).

While you can park on-site for $10, I suggest looking for street parking. Not only will you save money, but you’ll avoid the gaggle of cars and pedestrians leaving the cemetery. As with everything in life, early arrivers will have a better choice of seats. We arrived about 30 minutes before the figurative lights dropped, and were regulated to a spot near the back. However, the “screen” (technically a wall, but whatever) was large enough and the speakers placed perfectly that I didn’t have to strain to enjoy the movie. For those that want to arrive an hour or two early, a DJ spins music before the movie, so you’ll be entertained. (I guess you’ll have your friends to entertain you too, but you never know...) And despite the large crowds, everyone is extremely friendly and polite, a rarity in LA.

Overall, this is a great way to spend a Saturday night in Hollywood. It combines everything that’s great about LA – Classic Movies, Hollywood, and drinking in a cemetery. Or something.

Next screening: June 9th, A Nightmare On Elm Street
Gates open at 7:00, Movie starts at 8:30