The Right Stuff

No I am not talking about the 80's New Kids On the Block Song :P but instead work out essentials.  There was at one point in my weight loss journey so far where I actually had more workout clothes that fit me better then everyday stuff. Mainly because dress pants are just to darn expensive to constantly replace.  There are however I have come to realize a few must haves on your journey to working out, losing weight and staying fit.

 

Honestly the first major purchase I bought aside from one pair of workout capris was a sports bra and that was after months of working out.  I was convinced I didn't need one or that they would not have one that would support my girls. I was wrong. It makes a big difference.  My absolute favorite, mainly because I just stuck with what works and haven't tried any other is the Under Armour, Armour Bra. I think I like it because it does up like a normal bra and you shop for it the same way.  Strangely I think one of my first purchase was an actually water bottle.  I got sick and tired of taking a plastic one with me and drinking all of it and not having enough, so then having to carry around two bottles just became annoying.

 

One of my other major purchases were new running shoes. I soon discovered it was nice to have 2 pair of shoes, one strictly for working out and ones for everyday. Never would I have thought to own 2 pair of running shoes at once for dual purposes. Next came work out clothes and boy do I have a lot. Once I started leaving my house and going to Zumba on a regular basis I knew I needed more then one pair of pants and shirt. I got some capris, more tops, then it was summer and I got shorter capris and tank tops. I now have an entire drawer devoted just to workout clothes. And headbands boy do I love my headbands.  There is nothing more annoying then sweaty bangs on your face well working out.  I have a variety mostly Under Armour and a few lulu lemon. I can't come to buy a lot of high end brand name sports wear, I am mostly Walmart and Joe Fresh.

 

Lastly are the few things I never really think much of but do use. A sweat towel for one can be very essential item. Though I have seen you have to sweat like a pig to look like a fox! Speaking of sweating like a pig, that doesn't mean you have to smell like one either.  A good deodorant is definitely essential! I also like to use a dry shampoo for days I don't want to wash my hair twice but feel it needs a little sprucing up. One thing I never really thought to much about until a friend gave me one as a gift was a workout bag.  I was using a reusable shopping bag but I must say having a multi compartment, zippered bag is really nice when I go from work straight to the gym.  I still use small reusable bags (lulu lemon are wonderful) to transport my shoes and water bottle.

 

Now I read in Self magazine (remember my guilty pleasure) that Kelly Osbourne's secret to staying motivated is to dress up for the gym. That way, she says when you see your reflection in the mirror, you're like, "Oh, I look cute!" not "Get me out of here!".  Although I believe they say....