Dose of Prose
Fitness is important to me and I consider it to be one of my simple pleasures. I always try to incorporate some type of movement into my daily lifestyle because it makes me feel good, both mentally and physically. Sometimes I receive questions/comments about the types of workouts I do, how I stay fit and what motivates me to exercise in the first place. The good news is, I have an entire blog post about it. Check out my post on How to Enjoy Exercise to learn about ways you can elevate your workout experience – no equipment needed.
My Quarantine Workout Routine
Since the pandemic began, I’ve been doing workouts via Zoom and/or Instagram Live. Speaking of Zoom, I had the incredible opportunity to film a yoga workout for a local TV show. If you’re someone who sits at a desk most of the day and are looking for a couple stretches to open your hips and get your blood flowing, check out the video below! You might just see a familiar face.
In addition to yoga, the other types of workouts I do include: barre, pilates, HIIT and core/sculpting classes. The style of workouts I’ve been focusing on lately are pyramid and circuit training. Think of a shape of a pyramid. You know how it starts narrow and widens out? That’s basically what a pyramid style workout is like. You start off heavy and gradually decrease the weights or reps. Alternatively with a reverse pyramid, you start light and gradually increase the weight or reps. A circuit style workout, however is when you cycle through several exercises/movements (usually five to 10) targeting different muscle groups with minimal rest in between. These type of workouts are so challenging yet so rewarding! I definitely recommend switching things up and giving this a try. I usually post videos of my workouts each week on my Instagram so feel free to follow me there if you want to stay updated.
The Impact of Fitness Apparel
Today’s post is not so much fitness focused as it is fashion focused. I’ll be honest and say that I used to not invest in my workout clothes at all. I would often get my workout gear from Target. Now let me be clear – I am not knocking Target what so ever. I still wear Target to this day. Fun fact: I participated in a focus group for one of Target’s athletic clothing lines (JoyLab) where I played the role of a buyer and got to try the clothes and provide feedback on how their gear could appeal to more consumers. So cool! Anyway, one day, after some of those cheaper Target and TJ Maxx workout clothes started to fade in color and literally rip apart (yikes), I decided to treat myself to some higher-end athleisure brands in Los Angeles…and, let’s just say, I was hooked. Not only did I feel more motivated to workout (because let’s face it, I wanted to show off my new outfit) but also, I could see and feel the functional difference in my new workout gear. I didn’t experience visible sweat stains on my clothes post workout or any wear and tear after long repeated use, like I did with my cheaper workout clothes. Not everything that is of good quality has to be expensive of course, but at the same time, you get what you pay for.
Today, I want to share with you some fitness brands that you should put on your radar if you want to sweat in style. Before you ask, no, I’m not talking about your typical Nike, Puma, Adidas or Lululemon (which are all awesome by the way). I want to give you some smaller, up and coming brands that you may not have heard of before. Some are sustainable, others are local, and a couple are even owned by women. All of them are fashion forward and I highly recommend you check them out. Whether you want something functional for physical activity, or you just want something cute and comfy to wear while you’re running errands, the list of brands I’ve curated in this post covers it all.
Bandier
A couple years ago I was shopping on Melrose (how LA of me) with one of my friends and she said, “Have you heard of Bandier?” I said, “No, what’s that?” and she replied, “It’s like a Revolve for activewear. Let’s go!” Once we went inside, I was in awe. Some of you reading this may not have heard of Revolve, but maybe you’re familiar with TJ Maxx. Bandier is similar to that. It’s a store that sells lots of different brands, specifically workout wear. The store stood two stories high with a fitness studio and coffee shop inside. I was in “hog heaven,” as my dad says haha. Since first visiting the store, I’ve gone back multiple times for workout classes, coffee and shopping their sales. They have a great selection of luxury workout brands, but my favorites, Avocado and All Access are featured below. Other brands that Bandier carries that I find so stylish are Koral, ARKK and Bala, just to name a few. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for all activewear, Bandier is the place for you. They have multiple locations and are constantly coming out with new styles. Browse their website and I know you’ll find something you love.
Year of Ours
YOS is the perfect combination of classic American sportswear with a modern twist. I’m obsessed with their ribbed football leggings and love the patterns and colors of their fabrics. You can’t go wrong with any piece from this brand!
Set Active
Looking for the workout set of your dreams? Set Active is the brand for you. Their activewear is so versatile, comfortable and chic. They have an amazing selection of colors and styles. In the photos below, I’m wearing the easy crop and sweat shorts in the color Berry. I chose this color because…the blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice. *winks* I’ve been eyeing the SCULPTFLEX™ ribbed one shoulder top as of late, so that will definitely be added to my cart soon. Overall, Set Active makes a statement and is so flattering on any silhouette. You won’t be disappointed.
Carbon 38
Here is another activewear marketplace that you should add to your list. I attended a fitness event and was gifted some Carbon38 gear and I briefly worked at a fitness studio that sold one of their brands (Michi) and it immediately caught my eye. At Carbon38, you’ll find anything from snake print to metallic to houndstooth and more. Their assortment of pieces will definitely have you standing out in the best way possible.
P.E. Nation
This athleisure brand is where streetwear meets sportswear. If you’re looking to workout with an urban flare, add P.E. Nation to your wishlist. Wearing this brand just makes me feel cool, you know what I mean? haha. Check it out!
Outdoor Voices
For those who are looking for sustainable yet stylish workout clothes, OV is a great apparel brand to put on your radar. I love the mission behind their brand. Not every workout you do has to be hard core and performance based. It’s equally as important to prioritize resting and recovery (I’m still working on this myself). In addition to my intense barre/HIIT/pilates workouts, I also do yoga, stretching or even just go on a walk. OV emphasizes making fitness fun and #DoingThings is a part of their mission, which I strongly align with.
Well, that’s all for today friends. Sometimes, all it takes to elevate your fitness experience is to cop some new workout gear. What does your quarantine workout routine look like? Share your favorite exercises and instructors below! Are there any additional brands you like that you want to share? Leave a comment and let me know. Friendly reminders: Everyday is a new chance to move your body. Movement is medicine. Movement is for you. I hope you take time for yourself everyday, even if it’s just for 5 minutes to move. You deserve it.
