Happy Monday, friends! Last week I shared with you how my half marathon training is going so far. I did my long run yesterday (outside!) and I really tried to focus on my breathing like some of you suggested. I still struggled through a few side cramps, but they weren’t as bad as before. Thanks for all of the feedback!I’ve been trying to build on my workout wardrobe for awhile now. I’m terrible about wearing ratty old t-shirts or Pete’s over sized shirts when I workout. Embarrassingly enough, the majority of them have holes in the armpits. So, I’ve been adding new gear here and there so that I don’t look like a hobo when I’m getting my fitness on. Below are some of my favorites along with gadgets I’ve found useful during my runs.
FitBit Zip Wireless Activity Tracker // I’m a big fan of my FitBit Zip. I won it at work in a drawing and have been pretty pleased with how easy it is to use. I try to pop this bad boy on every morning, but occasionally I forget. Whenever I start a workout I always make sure to put it on so I can compare how far my FitBit says I’ve gone to an app (if I’m running outside) or the treadmill. The step counter is also a huge motivator in the office.
Nike+ Running App // I’ve tested out several different apps, but nothing has compared to the Nike+ running app. I’ve found it to be accurate and user friendly. Bonus: it provides verbal updates on miles along your run. This keeps me from constantly checking the mileage count.
Nike Pro Compression Shorts // Everyone who’s not a fan of their shorts riding up while running, raise your hand (I’m picturing every single one of you holding up your hand right now). I have naturally long legs and at 5’7″ I’m taller than the average woman. So, I’ve been on the hunt for a pair of compression shorts that aren’t too short that I can wear the day of the race. I’ve been wearing longer pants during my outdoor runs because it’s still technically winter. I came across a pair of Nike compression shorts with a 3 inch inseam and I’m thinking they might just do the trick.
Champion Women’s Tech Tee // My stepmom got me one of these tees from Target for Christmas and I’ve practically been living in it. It’s breathable, affordable and comes in an assortment of colors. Pink, please!
Ribbon Hair Ties // These hair ties are a necessity. For starters, they don’t leave nasty creases in my hair and I love their no-slip grip. There is nothing worse than the feeling that your pony tail holder is slowly inching its way undone. That’s the last thing you should be worried about on a run.
For the feet // I’m still wearing the ASICS Gel Cumulus tennies I got back in October. How often do you replace your running shoes? After a certain number of miles or months? I’ve been on the lookout for a second pair so that I can rotate them out.
This weekend I picked up a few several things over at Old Navy. I’ve never really considered them a place to go when shopping for workout gear, but I was pleasantly surprised by what I found. Everything fit great and the price was unbeatable. I got three new tanks (on sale!) and a pair of compression capris (and as you can see, a few other items accidentally made their way home with me).Where are your favorite places to shop for workout clothes or training gear?
p/s KCFW is kicking off this week, be sure to follow along with me on Twitter and Instagram for a behind the scenes look!
I love Old Navy’s work outclothes! I find lots of cute workout pants at TJ Maxx too.
I haven’t tried Old Navy but Aeropostale has some killer comfortable tops right now. I normally shop at TJ Maxx for workout gear and always end up buying too much!
http://www.theadoredlife.com
those nike pro compression shorts look like some serious winners!
honestly, i buy pretty much all of my workout gear at tj maxx or marshalls. for the first time ever, my husband and i bought sneakers from an official nike store last month. i liked the experience! there are so many choices for such a specialized product.
oh, and i thought i was, but i guess i wasn’t–i’m following you via bloglovin now!!
They are so, so comfortable! I’ve tried TJMaxx a few times, but I must be going on the bad days. I’ll try again! However, I did find my yoga mat there 🙂
I haven’t been to Aeropostale in SO long, but everything you’ve been getting from there looks so awesome! Another excuse to shop next weekend…oops
I’ve heard that from so many people! There is nothing better than a great pair of tennis shoes. Woo! can’t wait to go check out your blog.
Old Navy has my favorite affordable compression crops! They seriously rock! Marshall’s always has great affordable workout gear too, and if you haven’t checked out Fabletics, they’re great too. And all decently priced! I’m all about affordable! As for the shoes, it’s really all up to preference i think. Some people say after so many miles, others say every few months. I would say that if you just bought your shoes in October, and you’re doing a race in April, then those shoes will probably be good for training for your next race. Then as you get closer to the next one, I’d buy a similar pair of shoes. Although, you totally need to jump on the Mizuno bandwagon girl. They seriously changed my life!
Ha, running makes me feel like a floppy fish – definitely not beautiful! You go girl! Have fun training!
Thanks for linking up to Beautiful You!
Tiffany Ima
Style Honestly
It’s sad to say, but cute workout clothes are what get me motivated to hit the gym. I’ll be like, “Don’t wanna go… Oooh but I can wear my new pink Nike Free’s… Okay, I’ll go.” Ha!
Old Navy is a great place to score cute workout stuff on the cheap- love their tanks! 🙂
-Ashley
http://lestylorouge.com
Sometimes
I feel like it makes me look that way too! Thanks for the words of
encouragement!
I’m finding that training for a half is quite the committment! I’ve been scheduling in my runs so I don’t miss them 🙂 Good luck with yours!!