Mother Stories
Momboss: Celebrity Trainer Lauren Kleban Of LEKfit
Written by James Kicinski-McCoy
Photography by Photographed by Nicki Sebastian
Oct 10, 2017
Now that fall is in full swing, there’s no doubt you’re already making the shift into holiday mode and beginning to plan for family celebrations, menus, and more. So, while working out might not be the first thing on everyone’s mind, allow our second Momboss feature to serve as a motivational guide to endless fit-spiration (and biz-spiration!) as the holiday season draws near. Meet Lauren Kleban, founder of the high-intensity, it-girl obsessed workout program, LEKfit, and mama to two blonde babes (Miles, 4, and Romy, 2). Aside from daily carpool runs and balancing her role as “mama”, she also fearlessly runs a successful business from a chic garage-turned-home studio. Here the inspiring and in-shape #momboss gives us the grand tour and talks all things business, fitness, and family.
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“I began my career as a professional dancer and choreographer, and continued until I had my son, Miles. I've been teaching dance and yoga-inspired fitness since college.”
Lauren is wearing a Reformation top and Re/done jeans. Miles is wearing a Sol Angeles top and H&M pants. Romy is wearing a dress from Paisley Magic.
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- “I've taught at numerous studios and gyms, and saw a need for a more beneficial dance-inspired workout. Most of the workouts I had experienced were either pure cardio or mat work, but no one was combining the two. I also wanted to create something more feminine, so I consistently draw inspiration from my ballet, jazz, burlesque, and yoga training to create fun and effective workouts that empower women, and promote body love and acceptance.”
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- “A momboss is a working mom who strives to balance her career and family. Isn't it strange that we don't use the phrase or hashtag #dadboss, though? Honestly, I really think (and hope) that by the time my daughter is a mother, the dynamic will have changed, and entrepreneurial women and mothers will be just as common as businessmen and fathers.”
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- “Find something you love, feel passionate about, and believe in. When things get tough and overwhelming, remember why you started. It sounds so cliché, but you'll need to hold on to that passion, and never give up. Surround yourself with like-minded women because you'll need the support of people who actually get it. I am beyond lucky to have many 'momboss' clients, and a best friend who owns and runs three successful restaurants. She is my number one go-to for all things motherhood and business.”
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- So cute!
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- “When I had Miles, who’s four, I was able to take all the time I needed. When I had Romy, who’s now two, we were in a huge growth stage, and maternity leave just wasn't possible. I was teaching literally until I left for the hospital. I took two weeks off to recover, but that's all I could do at the time. I armed myself with a lot of outside help, and did my best to keep the mom-guilt under control. I know I'm a better wife and mother when I'm working, and reminded myself of that often.”
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- “I think it's important for them to see me working hard at something I am passionate about.”
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- “Motherhood has forced me to be more organized and goal-oriented. I am certainly more aware of how precious time is, and therefore more cautious about how I use it.”
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- “I'd say the same thing that I tell my clients when they first get started: be patient, start slow, and take breaks when you need to. It really is a juggling act that is constantly changing and, at times, can feel completely overwhelming. When you're at work, be at work. And, when you're home, be at home. This is beyond easier said than done, and something I strive to achieve daily. My husband and I have a standing date night each week with each other. We almost never miss this, and it’s been a really important part of keeping our relationship healthy.”
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- “I'm not from L.A., so I don't have family here that I can rely on. But, I do have an amazing nanny, and I thank my lucky stars we found her. My husband has also taken an active role in raising our kids, as well as LEKfit. And, it's been really fun to build the business together.”
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- “Finding the right talented people to join your team isn't easy, but essential for growth. There has definitely been some trial and error, while learning to trust and delegate, so I can focus on other things.”
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- “We moved to our home in Hancock Park when my son was a year old. I had been teaching and training part-time, and I was ready to take it the next level, but completely unsure how I would balance mom life with work life. So, my husband and I decided to turn our garage/guesthouse into a studio. We started really small with private sessions, and then private classes. It's grown rapidly from there. I can honestly say that we grew completely organically, and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. It's been great to work from home for the past three years, and with both kids about to be in school full-time, the timing couldn't be more perfect to move to a new flagship studio space away, but not far from home.”
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“Currently, it's harder than normal because the studio is behind our house. I think when we move into our flagship later this year, this will be easier.”
Lauren is wearing a top from Project Social T and vintage Levi's.
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- “We definitely have the coolest ladies working out with us—famous or not! I've been so lucky to have people like Busy and Emmy who graciously Instagram their LEKfit workouts both in the studio and online. I think other celebrities see our non-pretentious, laid-back, and supportive vibe, and gravitate towards that. Busy has been particularly instrumental in helping spread the word about LEKfit because she is so willing to talk openly and honestly about her mission to achieve her healthiest self. It also doesn't hurt that she looks fantastic!”
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- “I prefer to teach our 7 a.m. class before my son goes to school, or the 9:30 a.m. class, so I can do drop-off. After I teach, I'll spend the rest of the day responding to emails, working on social media, creating new content and playlists, and working with my LEKfit team. Both Miles and Romy just started dance class, so I break during the day twice a week to take them. I like to wrap by 6 p.m., so we can have dinner as a family. Then, I usually get back to it after the kids are in bed. Owning a business really is a 24/7 gig, so finding balance is absolutely key.”
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- “I still make time to personally answer as many emails possible.”
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- “Essentia water, Adidas Ultra Boost X sneakers, a Varley bodysuit, or Michi bra with Vie or Koral leggings, plus a perfectly curated playlist.”
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- “I'm super into Alt-R&B, and I'm currently obsessing over: Gallant, Daniel Caesar, Adrian Daniel, Dvsn, and Jack Garratt. Plus, badass female singer/songwriters like: Niia, Banks, Jhené Aiko, Nikka Costa, and H.E.R. I always throw in some ‘90s R&B, and anything with an inspiring beat for cardio.”
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- “All black everything.”
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- “I listen to my clients both in the studio and online. I listen to what they are saying, their goals, feelings, changes in their bodies, etc. I get inspired by them.”
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- “I don't stress it. I focus on delivering a great product to my clients.”
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“Berries with almonds, or a hard-boiled egg with green juice.”
Lauren is wearing a Blue Life Fit top, Varley leggings, and Adidas sneakers.
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- “Netflix and an epsom salt bubble bath.”
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