New Year, New You: Workout Gear

 

I am all for getting new workout goodies, be it either at home equipment or clothes. I’ll admit that most of the time my gym shirts make me a walking advert for the skin care brand Kinerase but sometimes I like to wear super cute workout clothes (like if I’m taking a class or when I was working out with the hot trainer). Some of the items shown above I own, while others are on my workout wish list. 

1. Nike Shox Turbo + VI iD Women’s Running Shoe, $130, nike.com: I want the aqua color (not shown) although the pink and yellow is actually kind of cute (and I don’t do pink). They are light weight, very supportive, and will also give you instant workout feedback when used with either an ipod Nano or Nike SportBand. You can even customize the size for your right and left feet. 

2. Danskin Now Pilates Magic Circle, $10, walmart.com: I rather liked my circle before my dog chewed up the foam pads. It helped to increase resistance for a better workout and it was easy to use. I ended up getting bored with it, though, and I think my little dog could tell. 

3. Balance Ball, various prices: My old roommate and I swore we’d workout every day when we got these. We didn’t. I, however, did eventually end up using it quite often. I purchased mine for around $15 as a set from TJ Maxx that included the ball, a pump, a resistance band, and a handy dvd. I’ve seen them sold from $12-$30 and up depending on the brand. Make certain to shop around for the best price. 

4.  Nintendo Wii Fit + Balance Board, $100, target.com: I have debated on getting this. I’ve heard a lot of good things about Wii Fit. I’d need to buy the Nintendo Wii first. Hmmm. This or gym membership? Or both? We’ll see. 

5. Gaiam Flower Power Yoga Mat, $24-62 ($62 includes matching case and water bottle), Gaiam.com: I have this design in purple and love it, though I like fun green color better. It’s non-slip bottom is perfect for klutzes (like me). Make sure to grab yoga mat cleanser when you buy your mat and clean it regularly. 

6. Nike Ace Women’s Tank Top, $35, nike.com: These tops are cute enough to run errands in before the gym and then work up a sweat in. They do not offer any support so you will still need to pair it with a good sports bra. Looking for a more affordable option? Try Target. They have a great choice at prices so low that you can buy two. 

7. Nike 5 lb Hand Weights, $35, nike.com: Finally! Weights that are sleek, stylish, and easy to hold. 

8. Puma Essential Fitted Shorts, $32, puma.com: I am not one of those girls that works out in shorts. If I was, I’d probably choose these as they are stretchy enough to not flash the entire gym a glimpse of your undies. Workout in good taste, ladies! 

9. Puma Agile Capri, $32, puma.com or zappos.com: These are some of the most comfy pants I’ve ever worked out in (except for some off brand capri’s I found at Target). They have a drawstring, which I love, and don’t make odd noises as you run on the gym treadmill. 

10. Earthlust Water Bottle, $18, Vickerey.com: I love my stainless steel water bottle. It’s a great way to cut down on plastic water bottles and stay hydrated. Confession: sometimes, if I’m running short on time, I’ll still grab a plastic water bottle. 

11. Uni Bodi Pilates Weight Balls, $20, unibodi.com: If you prefer not to hold hand weights during pilates, try weight balls instead. These are a little more ergonomic and easier to grasp. 

12. Old Navy Womens Funnel-Neck Yoga Jacket, $20, oldnavy.com: Besides Target, I love finding inexpensive workout clothes at Old Navy. I have this jacket in the carbon shade and love it. The pockets are easy to access and feature zippers so your personal items will stay put. It’s also pretty comfy and soft.