New Year Fitness: Getting fit in 2019 doesn't have to break the bank
It’s officially 2019…a New Year for new beginnings and fresh starts. As many of us already know, some of the more popular resolutions or goals tend to be related to fitness or better health. It’s well known that gyms are booming in January when everyone begins their pursuit of getting into better shape.
If you’re interested in finding deals and bargains on fitness equipment, active wear and accessories (sports-gloves, fanny packs), now is the best time to score goodies towards your fitness resolutions, especially at-home gym items.
If there’s a Dd’s Discount or Ross Dress for Less in your town, check them out for workout capris, tops and sports bras for less than $20. They carry brands that, although not so well-known, are still great in quality and style as well as name brand items like Nike, Puma, and adidas. Even if they’re closeout items, it’s a savings!
You can also find massive discounts on your favorite brand of sneakers at various retailers. Just make sure the shoe you pick is best suited for the exercise regime you plan to participate in.
For the new year, I organized my workout wear to make it easier for me to see exactly what items I have. Spending five minutes digging through items searching for my favorite capris can be a discouraging start to a workout session. It also reminds me what colors I have at my disposal, which helps when picking out combinations that suit my mood. It was also an opportunity for me to sort out pieces that weren’t in their best shape, anymore, and take note of items I need to replace, etc.
Keep in mind, when I first started working out in 2014, my color palette was hot pink/white/black/gray. I had a total of maybe 7 items to start with (1 pair of black capris, 1 pair of black yoga pants, 1 pink/black/gray sports bra (reversible), 1 pair of black and pink shorts, 1 pink tank top, 1 black tank top, 1 pair of pink and black Fila sneakers). Every week or so, I would add a few more coordinating items to expand my active wear wardrobe. Months later, having stuck to my workout goals, I found myself getting bored with that theme, so I branched out.
From there, I began incorporating neon greens and yellows, gradually working my way on to oranges, blues and purples. Next, I began to bring in funky prints, patterns and more elaborate sports bra styles. Now, I have a variety of items to suit whatever color I'm motivated by at the time I want to work out. The results are below:
Sports bras:
Bottoms:
Tops/Tanks/Cover-ups:
Also, if you’re planning to hit the gym before or after work, think about coordinating outfits in advance and keeping them in the trunk of your car. That way, whenever you’re able to make a gym stop or feel motivated, you’re already set to go. I advise you to include at least one pair of various items so you have something suitable for whichever activity you’re up for. And keep a spare pair of headphones in your gym bag. How many of us blew off a workout we were motivated to do because we forgot to pack our earphones and wouldn't be able to hear our tunes? Ugh!
Lastly, don’t allow ill-fitting items to keep you from your fitness goals. It’s trial and error before you find the perfect fit on some items. As someone who shunned chunky sports sneakers most of my life because they made my tiny ankles look even more spindly, I eventually found a few styles that were lightweight and less bulky, while still giving me comfort and protection. If you’re heavy-chested, keep trying sports bras until you find a style or brand that keeps your girls secure during exercises involving jumping or running. It’s only a matter of time before you find that perfect fit!
Wishing everyone a successful fitness journey! Don't just say 2019 is going to be your year. Let's make it so! 👍
If you haven't checked out Parts 1 and 2 of my Affordable Fitness Series on this blog, please check it out. There, you will find more information and links to items available at affordable prices.