Hayashi recommends a quick practice in mirrored elevators, where the face is visible from all angles, and during bumper-to-bumper rush hour traffic when your car has come to a grinding halt.Walk into L.A.’s newest boutique fitness studio and you won’t find any weights, workout equipment, or barre. There are no inspirational slogans emblazoned across the walls, nor branded activewear for sale. Instead, in a bare and brightly lit room, rows of tables are set up with nothing but a mirror at each seat. Welcome to Skin Fit Gym, where you'll awaken dozens of new muscles without breaking a sweat. “There are 43 muscles in the face, but we only use 30 percent of them,” says Hokkaido-born founder and instructor Koko Hayashi of everyday facial movements like chewing, smiling or frowning. “Face training teaches you to use all of the muscles with over fifty different exercises that will lift and smooth the face.” Already big in Japan, face sculpting is fast becoming part of a growing global beauty trend—both FaceGym in London and FaceLove in New York City incorporate shiatsu-based massage techniques into their treatments, which increase blood flow and tone facial muscles. Skin Fit Gym in Los Angeles's DTLA neighborhood takes that idea to its logical conclusion: A standalone studio with exercise classes dedicated only to muscles in the face and neck. Similar to a spin class, group classes are set to energizing music; exercises like somewhat comical looking tongue thrusting, cheek puffing and eye squinting are performed in unison. For overachievers, private classes and streamed sessions via Skype are also available. The basic program focuses on combating common complaints like saggy necks, jowls and puffy eyes, while more advanced programs and customized routines focus on specific facial areas. “In Japan, the most common request is for more symmetrical eyes,” says Hayashi. Once devotees have mastered the moves, they can be performed anywhere, anytime. Hayashi recommends a quick practice in mirrored elevators, where the face is visible from all angles, and during bumper-to-bumper rush hour traffic when your car has come to a grinding halt. Or try it as part of a daily skincare routine, leaving you with no excuse to skip face time at the gym.
POST: 2024-04-20