Yoga, cold plunges, and beach workouts: LA Tech Week is embracing wellness over booze

On a cloudy Monday morning in Santa Monica, nearly 100 tech enthusiasts traded their suits for shorts and athleisure as they gathered for a group workout by the beach. This event was a standout among many at LA Tech Week, where traditional networking over cocktails was swapped for yoga mats and cold plunges. Oliver Fitz-Gibbon, cofounder of Rally—a network focused on fitness for investors and founders—emphasized the community's commitment to holistic well-being. "Our community consists of high achievers who prioritize building successful businesses while also wanting to maintain their health and family life," he remarked. "Waking up without a hangover is a priority for many of us." The trend of sobriety is gaining traction within the tech sector, especially in Los Angeles, known for its sunny disposition and health-conscious culture. This year's LA Tech Week featured a variety of activities, including running and surfing clubs in Santa Monica, hiking adventures in Brentwood, and rejuvenating ice baths and saunas in Venice. An invitation to a 'Puppies & Pilates' event in Beverly Hills teased attendees with the prospect of new connections and the chance to foster a dog. One of the most popular events, the 'Rejuvenation Mansion' in Bel Air, offered a range of wellness activities including cold plunges, sauna circuits, and meditation, catering to those who aim to avoid burnout while maintaining a fast-paced lifestyle. Software engineer and entrepreneur SoHa Zadeh noted, "This event stands out during Tech Week because it allows for genuine connections without the pressure of work discussions." While wellness events flourished, traditional networking opportunities were still available. From Long Beach to Pasadena, happy hours and parties offered boozy alternatives, including an exclusive after-party at Delilah in West Hollywood, where a dazzling pyramid of sparkling wine awaited a select few. Reflecting on the changing landscape of the tech scene, Kahlil Lalji, cofounder and CEO of the startup Natural, pointed out the stark contrast between Los Angeles and San Francisco. He observed, "All the energy seems to have shifted to San Francisco, leaving LA in a bit of a slump." Investors are increasingly seeking opportunities in San Francisco, leaving LA startups at a disadvantage. Despite these challenges, some believe there are still benefits to investing locally. Shamin Walsh, managing director of BAM Ventures, highlighted that while San Francisco's valuations soar, LA offers a more grounded approach. "We focus on valuations and find it challenging to strategize in the inflated market of San Francisco," she explained. The appeal of LA's lifestyle continues to attract talented founders, even as AI innovation is predominantly centered in the Bay Area. Interestingly, while LA lacks the extensive AI landscape, it is home to a burgeoning defense technology sector in El Segundo, exemplified by companies like Anduril, which recently achieved a staggering $30 billion valuation. One happy hour invitation captured the sentiment perfectly: "Thank God for El Segundo."