Ah, summer. A time for vacation, pool parties and the chance to do something for YOU. Summer may be far away, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start preparing now. Whether we like it or not, exercise is essential to leading a healthy life. For women, especially African-American women, we let excuses like hair, sweat and physical appearance keep us from the treadmill. Today is a new day. Whether it’s the first or the hundredth time, now is the time to make a statement. A fashion forward ensemble will turn heads and boost confidence. Our shopping guide’s got you covered from head to toe.
Quick Dry Clothing
For me, breaking a sweat at the gym means I’m doing good work. However, I could definitely do without that sticky, sweaty feeling that comes after. Need a solution? Quick dry clothing! Brands like Under Armour and Nike make products that take care of this AND have cute patterns and colors. Invest in a more expensive pair or go with a something cheaper to start a wide collection of workout attire.
Vixen Picks:
Aerie Slim Gym Boot Crossover Pant, $24.95
Under Armour Shatter Capri’s, $45
Asics PR Skort, $42
Old Navy Women’s Active GoDRY Running Top, $22.94
Nike Dri-Fit Knit Long-Sleeve, $70
Photo Credit: Nike Store
Undergarments
The worst place to get sweat is in between your legs. Truth is fabric matters more than style. Like your pants and shirt, undergarments should also air dry. Today, sports brands offer an extensive selection.
Lululemon Light As Air Hipster, $18
New Balance Seamless Boy Short or Bikini (3 pack), $29.99
Patagonia Women’s Active Hipster, $20
Under Armour Pure Stretch Cheeky, $12
Photo Credit: FinishLine.com
Sports Bra
Keeping the breasts in check is an issue for all women. We don’t want them moving all over and we don’t want to suffocate them either. I suggest getting an accurate bra fitting. Once you know your true size, buy a sports bra that isn’t so tight it gives you “back fat.” It should hold the girls up and minimize the bounce.
Ideology Sleeveless V-Neck Racerback Sports Bra, $40.00
Lily of France Breathable Sports Bra, $32.00
Panache Underwire Sports Bra, $68
The North Face “Bounce Be Gone” Bra, $32
Photo Credit: FinishLine.com
Accessories
Now that you have your top, bottom and undergarments, let’s talk about the extras. For all of the ladies who just hit the hair salon, the Save Your Do Gymwrap is your saving grace. Endorsed by Nicole Ari Parker, this product makes “sweating out your weave” a thing of the past. An insulated water bottle will keep your protein shake or water cool for hours and can be reused for hot coffee in the morning. Remember: yoga mats aren’t just for yoga. Stick one in your duffle bag and it will remind you to stretch after a strenuous workout.
Save Your Do Narrow Band Gymwrap, $24.95
Nike Varsity Metal Girl’s Duffle Bag, $35
Klean Kanteen Insulated Water Bottle, $24.95
Altus Hibiscus Yoga Mat, $14.30
Photo Credit: Saveyourdo.com
Workout to Try: The Pilates Chair
This is one of the many goals of Pretty Girls Sweat, a non profit organization grown out of Teen Diaries. The year old project is spawned from a fitness event that supported Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” campaign. Keri Hilson, who hosted, was currently atop the Billboard charts with “Pretty Girl Rock,” the song that inspired the organization’s name. Since then, PGS has continued to motivate women to work out and have fun with fitness.
Keep up with PGS at prettygirlssweat.com to purchase apparel and stay up to date on future events.
Photo Credit: Nicole Brown