Tag: fitness gear
I’m a strong believer that working out in fitness gear that you look and feel good in is motivating. Cute outfits are powerful–I bet on some days, a great fitness outfit can play a role in whether you do your workout or not. I’m pretty good at sticking to my marathon-training schedule, but on the days my favourite pieces are in the laundry and I have to wear some bland, shapeless top I got from a race (most race tops are not very flattering or stylish, right?), I just don’t step out and pound that pavement feeling my best.
If you’re seeking cute fit gear, LOLË Yorkville is a cheerful little boutique where you can find pieces in fun prints (and solids, too) with flattering details, but, of course, with your athletic needs in mind (sweat-wicking fabrics, venting where you need venting, flat seams so you don’t risk chafing, etc.). I’m partial to the running gear (since that’s my main form of fitness) and I love that designer Andy Thê-Anh is a runner himself, so we of course always chat halfs and marathons when I see him at the media previews. But there is a lovely assortment of yoga, lifestyle and some swimwear, too. In fact, what I’m currently coveting are cashmere pieces from from the White by LOLË — although I’d probably wear them more for lounging than sun salutations…
In addition to gear, the shop is a fitness hub where you can take part in yoga classes or run clubs. The run clubs are held in the spring and summer, and yoga meet-ups take place once or twice a week in the store (and occasionally are held in studios for specialized classes such as reformer Pilates). You can get more details on the run clubs and yoga on the Atelier Lole Yorkville Facebook page.
Oh, and if you’re peckish and in need of some fuel when you pop in, there are complimentary beverages and bars available, too. There’s no need to shop hangry!
Atelier LOLË Yorkville, 88 Yorkville Ave., Toronto, www.lolewomen.com
November 5, 2014
You know when you’re running and you accidentally yank out your earphones? Or when the wire catches onto someone’s purse when you’re sprinting on by them downtown? I hate when that happens. It takes you out of your zone, and then you’re busy fumbling with getting them back on instead of focusing on your run.
So I was super keen to test out the Sport Wireless+ earphones Jabra sent me. I kept forgetting to use them at first, and then I’d remember right before heading out for a run, but would think “I don’t have time to figure out how to set it up.”
It turns out they’re simple to connect–you just need to enable and connect them via Bluetooth (something even technologically challenged me was able to do).
I used them on a handful of short runs, and enjoyed the freedom of not having the fussy wire to deal with. Plus skipping songs, and pausing the workout is simple, just a tap on button on the right earphone. It also has a built-in FM radio, but I usually run with Songza or my iPod on shuffle as I use Nike+ Running so I never tried the radio. The sound quality is good, and they fit comfortably (and btw, they come with a variety of eargels so you’ll likely find one that fits well for you!).
I decided to use them for running Around the Bay (where I ran a personal best on Sunday!) even though I knew it was risky given I’d never done a long run with the earphones. I did bring an extra set of earphones, just in case. And I’m glad I did as not even one-third into the race I got a warning of low battery. I checked my iPhone, which had 71 percent. I got two more low-battery warnings and then all I had was silence and not the sweet sounds of NKOTB in my ears.
So, turns out you need to charge these earphones. Oops. (see above, where I say I’m not technologically inclined?). I didn’t realize they have a battery and I hadn’t noticed the charge cord in the packaging so I assumed incorrectly it ran off the power of my iPhone and the Bluetooth somehow
Love the earphones (I feel more streamlined without having a messy wire to deal with during runs) but I would refrain from using them in the very long runs. Jabra says the earphones will provide 4 hours of battery life, but I’ll just stick to using them on my runs of up to a half-marathon or so to be safe.
April 4, 2014
New from Forever21? Activewear. From tights and sportsbras to tanks and capris, in a mix of solids and prints in sweat-wicking technical fabrics. All of it, like everything else from this fast-fashion chain, is super easy on the pocketbook: pieces range from $10.80 to $33.80.
I tested out the gear last week over a fun session of Skyrobics at Skyzone (an indoor trampoline park). Comfy and does the job, but as for wear and tear, I’ll have to put it through several uses and laundry cycles to determine that. Do try on the items first — sizes tend to run small, but it also depends on the style, too. I do love the playful touches (I need that charming heart-print sports bra!) and the functional details (a hole in the hoody so you can wear your hair up in a high ponytail!).
What better way to stay motivated with your get-fit resolution (don’t tell me you’ve already given up??) than some inexpensive new gear? A few of my fave F21 Activewear pieces:
Space Dyed Workout Shorts, $9.80.
Reflective-trimmed Performance Capris, $23.80.
Medium Impact Heart Print Sports Bra, $16.80.
Hooded Running Jacket, $33.80.
January 30, 2014
Next page
Previous page
