Let Your Workout Attire Inspire!

Holiday fun has come to an end, and now is the time to get back to the gym or enroll in a fitness program. The Meijer Style Team can help you find the perfect winter workout gear so you don’t need to don the same ole’ clothes you’ve been sporting for the last year. 

 “Style and fashion trends have clearly made their way into active and athletic apparel,” said Lynn Hempe, group vice president of softlines for Meijer. “Meijer offers many affordable options that can fashionably take a person from their workout to run an errand or grab a cup of coffee, or simply to wear for leisure and casual occasions.”

 Here are some tips to keep in mind when selecting your exercise outfit:

Warm Up: As will any good exercise routine, selecting your apparel also starts with a thoughtful “warm up” that gets you ready for your workout. 

• Is your workout inside or outside? This is where layering your pieces is important.
• Do you have the right shoes and gear for the selected routine? Running or walking? Court or aerobics? Yoga or gym?
• Are you going to other locations or events on your way to or from your workout? Additional layer needed to cover up more? Need to lose a layer?

Routine: Your outfit should be put together in a way that inspires you and makes you feel good about your appearance. The Meijer Style Team has some advice for selecting performance-based and fashionable items that also reflects your personality and can put some spring in your step.

Yoga/Pilates:

• Bottoms should be of lightweight, breathable fabric. Select styles with wide-banded waists in bright colors and patterns. A small flair at the bottom of pants adds some additional interest.
• Flexible sports bra should be a workout staple for all women. Meijer offers a wonderful array of bright colors to choose from so you can rotate colors regularly to avoid getting stuck in the “same ole’ routine.”
• Yoga socks are a wonderful option for bare foot sessions. They come in a variety of patterns and offer open-toe control, mat less grip, and targeted traction zones.
• Layering a tunic or tank over a sports bra is perfect for cooler rooms or for additional coverage. Again, select bright colors in light weight fabrics that play well off of the sports bra tone.

Gym/Running:

• Bottoms should be of moisture-wicking fabric. Pay close attention to the length. Wear cropped bottoms or full-length pants that are snug at the ankle when using workout equipment. Bottoms should be comfortable, but not baggy. Again, be inspired to wear bottoms with color and pattern at the waist.
• Layering with a hoody or sweatshirt of moisture-wicking material can help keep your muscles, joints and ligaments warm for improved circulation. Mix and match colors and designs. A tunic or tank is also a great option for layering. Bottoms can be layered as well. Wear leggings or yoga pants under loose fitting shorts for additional coverage.
• Shoes can make a wonderful statement. Select shoes that offer the right amount of support for the activity, but let them reflect your personality. Athletic shoes are now designed in multiple colors and detailing that adds interest to any outfit.

Cool Down: Before you go back out in the cold, make sure to add an additional layer, such as a jacket, sweatshirt or coat. Enhance your style (and warmth) with a colorful headband, scarf and gloves.

Meijer offers a complete line of fashionable and functional activewear, shoes and accessories, including lightweight, breathable fabrics.

For additional advice on in-trend activewear fashions and other ideas from the Meijer Style Team, please visit Meijer.com/style.