Healthful Bites

The right apparel can be awesome motivation to get your sweat on—who wouldn’t want to slip on a cute new top and show it off at the gym? That’s why making a few smart investments can be well worth it. But how do you sort through all of the capris, shorts, tanks and tops to know which are best? Well I haven’t been able to try them all, but these items are among my favorites this summer and are certainly Healthful Bites-approved!

• I challenge you to find another top with this many details at such an amazing price! Duo Dry stretchy fabric, a fancy (yet subtle) pattern and a unique strap layout make the C9 by Champion Seamless Mosaic Tank hard to beat. ($19.99)
• Strategic venting in the NUX Breathe Y-Tank helps you keep your cool during even the most heated workouts. And the strategic seaming slims your torso. ($47)
• Under Armour’s UA Great Escape Short is flattering and comes in awesome color combos. The super-comfy wide waistband keeps your tummy covered. The only thing that would make them better? Losing the slightly baggy brief that running shorts often come with. ($29.99)
• When shorts don’t cover you, but standard capris or pants are too toasty, the lightweight New Balance Go 2 Capri are just the ticket. Reflective details keep you seen during early morning and late night workouts and a small rear pocket can hide your house key or iPod. ($29.74)
• The ASICS Kayano Classic Low Cut Sock is cut just high enough on the ankle so your achilles area is protected but your legs still appear nice and long. Plus, the colors are bright and cheery! ($14)

For more of my favorite fashion finds, check out my earlier post, which includes a few pieces that are ideal for cooler days (coming quicker than I can believe!).

From today’s goodies, I’d pair the NUX tank and New Balance capris for a sweaty spin, and the Under Armour shorts with the C9 tank for treadmill session or cardio class. During a recent non-scientific poll (completed through Twitter) I found that the majority of ladies out there agree with my philosophy: capris and shorts have very distinct uses. When asked capris or shorts…

• “Totally depends on the activity. Shorts for running or bootcamp, capris for yoga or spinning.”—heathercRD
• “Capris for running, shorts for step and other group ex!” —theCHASEproject
• “Cute capris, unless it’s reallly hot.”—katdoesdiets

So interesting! Now it’s your turn to sound off. What kinds of bottoms do you prefer? Does it depend on the exercise method?

Inspired by Jenn’s recent first fashion-related blog, I decided to do mine as well. (And thanks to Maddie for the great post idea!)

As anyone who knows me can attest, I’m not a huge fashion plate, since my favorite attire is a nice exercise outfit. Not only is it the comfiest—for me at least—but the proper clothing can also make working out more enjoyable. Doesn’t thinking about donning your fantastic new top on the treadmill motivate you to hit the gym? Or if you don’t have your favorite piece of workout wear yet, it’s an ideal treat once you meet a health goal.

So in this slideshow, I have included four of Healthful Bites-tested and approved pieces, as well as two of my current objects of my desire. Here’s a key to the images, with shopping info in case you dig them too:

• The Helly Hanson W Pace Singlet is just right for a spinning class, with it’s slightly longer back for the leaning over posture. And I’m a sucker for the neat detailing higher up near the nape of the neck! ($40)
• Fitted Adidas pants are my weekend dress code, and the Marathon M10 Track Pants are one of the best of the bunch! The wide waistband insures that you’re covered. ($75)
• Another fun back and a calming, pretty color make the LA Marathon X-Back Tank a perfect yoga class pick. ($48)
• Ideal for a run, spin or a cross training class, the Ambition Running Tight surprised me with how flattering they are for leggings. You’ll be able to tell that these aren’t your ordinary running tights the minute you slip them on. One word: comfy! ($92)
• The bright print drew me in to the Escape Woven 3 1/2 Short first, and the drawstring, small internal pocket and wide waistband make these a wish list shoe-in. ($29.99)
• I love the thumb holes, flattering cut and v-neck of the Cold-Weather Pullover Hoodie…Not to mention the price! A truly affordable wish list item. ($19.99) 

Hooray for three adorable outfits! What’s your go-to gym wear? Or what’s on your apparel wish list?