Hottest Trainer Contestant #16: Lauren Slater

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Welcome to Racked SF's search for San Francisco's hottest trainer. Over the coming weeks, we'll profile sixteen smoking hot candidates who work at local gyms and studios. Then, once you've gotten to know everyone, we'll host a March Madness-style showdown in which you get to vote for your favorite. Let the games begin!

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• Photos by Arlene Watson

Photos by Arlene Watson

Lauren Slater emanates the type of light and beauty that you often see in yogis. But really, it's her long legs and her lean, flexible, dancer's body that separate her from the pack. She began practicing yoga sixteen years ago and earned her teaching certification with Yoga Tree in 2004. These days, you'll find her teaching weekly classes at the Stanyan and Valencia studios, helping her students become more mindful of their movements while working toward stronger cores. Lauren is also a Lululemon ambassador, always making those stretchy pants look good. And if she hasn't won your heart over yet, her work with wildlife rehabilitation should seal the deal.

In one line, tell us about yourself.

Growing up in San Diego, I was constantly in the water or playing on the sand when I wasn't training in ballet and modern dance.

Why did you become a trainer?

Becoming a teacher felt like a natural extension of being an avid student. In order to really learn something, you have to break down the elements of whatever it is you are doing. I love the process of communicating [yoga postures], and pushing people to challenge themselves. Plus, the challenge of teaching and practicing keeps me youthful and engaged in living.

What advice would you offer to someone who is just starting in your class?

Always be you, even when learning something new. Laugh at the challenges your mind and body present, and then be kind [and open] so you can be more prone to accepting and overcoming those challenges. I spent years taking it out on myself and I can tell you it doesn't get you as far as being a little self-forgiving and kindly disciplined in your learning. Self-love heals and helps us to grow immeasurably.

Tell us one fun fact about yourself.

I'm a huge biology nerd. Growing up, I would wrap hammerhead sharks and stegosaurus dinosaurs into my little pink blanket. And whenever people would ask about them, I would regale them with every fact I knew about the creatures. Also, I love spiders.

If you weren't a trainer, what would you be?

If I wasn't a trainer, I'd probably be out sailing as a marine biologist who moonlights as a personal shopper on the side—oh, and cooking lavish vegetarian meals, as well.
· Lauren Slater Yoga [Official Site]
· All Hottest Trainer 2014 posts [Racked SF]