Heart & Sole: Embracing the Joys of Running with Alo Head Trainer Louis Chandler

Alo’s ethos centers around inspiring mindful movement, a concept we also cherish deeply at 1 Hotels. We believe that when you find the types of movement that nourish your body, center your mind, and soothe your soul, exercising can effortlessly turn into a healthy habit you crave.

Our partnership with Alo beautifully celebrates this belief, bringing you fitness classes, yoga flows, and group running opportunities with some of the top trainers in the world. One of those trainers is Louis Chandler, the Director of Fitness & Head Trainer at Alo Wellness Club.

Before Alo, Louis’s love for movement led him to a 12-year career in professional soccer and boxing. Since his move to LA in 2017, he’s trained top athletes, models, and actors, showcasing his fun, empowering workouts that fuse HIIT and functional strength training. Louis’s approach revolves around the idea that exercise should be enjoyed, not endured, and that it nurtures your mind just as much as (if not more than) your body.

We’re thrilled to have Louis as the guide of our Run Club at 1 Hotel West Hollywood, a weekly three-mile run fit for all levels. To highlight this amazing community experience, we sat down with him to explore the benefits of running, the incredible routes that wind through the city, and his top tips for beginners. If you’re intimidated by the thought of starting a new program or joining our weekly jog, read on to feel inspired to hit the ground running.

Get to Know Louis Chandler, Director of Fitness & Head Trainer at Alo Wellness Club

What inspired you to pursue a career in coaching and share your fitness expertise with others?

I wanted to share my passion for fitness with a broader audience, helping individuals of all backgrounds experience the benefits of an active lifestyle. Through coaching, I combine my love for sports and knowledge of physical training to make a positive impact on others' lives. This profession allows me to inspire others and contribute to their health and well-being, which brings me immense fulfillment.

1 Hotel West Hollywood offers a variety of Alo Moves wellness classes, including the Run Club where you guide a three-mile run around West Hollywood. Can you tell us more about the routes you take and what makes them special for guests or locals joining the run? Is it fit for all levels of runner?

The guided three-mile run is open to all runners, featuring a challenging hill incline. Don't be intimidated—two pacers ensure no one gets left behind, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

Marathons and run clubs are becoming increasingly popular. Why do you think running has captured the interest of so many people?  Why is the run club so special to you?

I believe running has gained popularity due to the strong sense of community it fosters. Marathons and run clubs bring together hundreds of people, all striving for a common goal, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. Participants share their experiences, challenges, and successes, building connections and friendships that go beyond the sport itself. The Run Club is particularly special to me because it has allowed me to build a supportive community of like-minded individuals in my local neighborhood.

For those who are new to running or feel intimidated, what are your top tips to succeed as a beginner runner or someone looking to participate in their first run club or 5K?

Start at a pace that feels comfortable, even if it includes walking breaks. Walking breaks are a strategic way to build endurance gradually, allowing your body to adapt to the demands of running without overwhelming it. Over time, you'll find yourself walking less and eventually running continuously.

You’ve had the chance to run in many cities. Which is your favorite?

Definitely Los Angeles!

Where can people follow you? Can people work out with you anywhere else?

You can follow me on Instagram @louischandler and join my workouts on the Alo Moves app under Louis Chandler.

Louis’s Favorites

Running shoe: Hoka 

Pre-/post-workout snack: Oats

LA restaurant: Da Carla

Travel essential: Headphones

Party trick: Back flip 

Hit Your Stride

As Louis mentioned, the Run Club at 1 Hotel West Hollywood is accessible to all fitness levels. Join us in LA and across our sanctuaries to jog through some of each city’s hidden gems and ramp up your confidence as a runner.