Friday Five {workout gear}

{1}

GapFit

Side note... I have a confession.  I'm afraid to try on Lululemon.  I've walked in the store and perused their website a handful of times, but I forbid myself from trying anything on or placing an order.  I've admired from afar, but will I try those pants on?  Heck no.  I know myself too well and when I like something, I get it.  Well, when it comes to clothes at least (within reason, of course).  I just can't justify the price for workout gear.  I work out five times a week, but I only wear the pants for a little over an hour each day.  Props to all of you ladies out there who are rocking your Lulu.  I've found some amazing alternates and I'm here to share.  

Gap has created a new line of compression active-wear called GapFit.  Y'all, it really, well... compresses.  I caught a major sale in our local store and racked up big time.  I'm obsessed with these two pants.  Comfy and slimming ...and wait for it... I got mine for $16 a piece.  Take that, Lululemon.

GapFit gFast Pants

GapFit gFast Leggings

Another item I just can't get over is their Full Zip Jacket.  The thumb holes sold me, what can I say?

{2}

Moving away a little from clothes, I have another love... Nike Stability Shoes.

Last spring, I went on a quest to find the perfect workout shoe.  I ran on a treadmill at a shoe store and was tested to see which shoe was best for my foot and stride.  The shoe below (on sale!) was recommended to me, along with the Zoom Structures.  I LOVE them.  Most comfortable workout shoes I've ever owned.

{3}

C9 Champion

Target did something right in a major way when they introduced the C9 Champion line to their stores.  I'm obsessed with their sports bras.  They are only about $15 and hold their shape for a long time.

Seamless Racer Bra

{4}

Murad Hydrating Toner

I usually am able to escape from the office to work out on my lunch break (gym is, lucky for me, across the street!).  Although I can rinse off in the shower after a workout, I don't have the time to remove my makeup and wash my face.  I improvise by using oil absorbing sheets to remove excess oil, but then I'm left with uncomfortable, tight skin.  This is where the Murad toner comes into play.  It calms my skin after a workout and refreshes my skin, leaving it soft and comfortable.  This stuff is also good for a midday pick-me-up after being stuck in yucky office air all day! 

{5}

Under Armour ColdGear

I definitely wouldn't say I live in a frigid climate -even in the winter, but I'm still thanking my lucky stars for these compression leggings.  They have the softest lining and really help to keep you warm when exercising outdoors.  Or, for going to the grocery store or mail box.  I have been living in these this winter.  

Under Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings

So there you have it.  My workout essentials.  

Happy, happy weekend!

get {fit}

Raise your hand if your new year's resolution was to get in the gym & eat healthier? 

This year, for some reason, I didn't have that resolution (unlike previous years) ...and it's not because I'm already doing it.

Last year at this time, I was preparing for the Miss Charleston pageant.  I was in the gym at least four days a week and was eating small portions & lots of fruits/veggies (eating healthy is really the #1 factor in weight loss). 

I felt so good about myself ...not just about the results I was seeing, but I - plain and simple - felt GOOD. 

Now... I feel like the nachos I ate for dinner.  Kind of soggy & lazy. 

Granted, I still am in the gym four days a week (on my lunch break), but my eating habits are horrible! 

I can always count on Pinterest to give me some motivation. 

I love this quote...

and of course, what's motivation without seeing a photo of Carrie's super toned legs? 

My new year's resolution (a little late) is to clean up my diet & see what kind of difference it makes in how I feel and look.

What are your favorite healthy snacks?

Xo.

all images via Pinterest