We’re almost two months into the year – how are those fitness resolutions going?! I have never actually had a new year’s resolution that had anything to do with fitness. Mine was always related to putting myself first, whether it be health-related, relationships, or just prioritizing what’s best for me. I have always struggled with that. It was easier for me to just get into a health kick when I’m feeling motivated, than having that “date” to start working out. This year was an exception. Long-winded explanation aside, after our wedding and the holidays, I had to start getting healthier when the year started. So I dusted off my go-to workout must-haves, and got to work! Patryk and I have been very consistent with our workout schedule, but I know things will change once I have to work in the office again.
All that to say – here are the items I’ve used for at least a year. I can confidently say they are my favorite items to workout in and with.
Clothing
I’m the kind of person who invests in workout bottoms, but will wear a ratty t-shirt or sweatshirt to the gym. So don’t expect any cute tops here!š¤£
Nike Free Metcons $120
I have the Nike Free Metcon 3, which is already discontinued. I got my pair when the 4’s came out just because I liked the 3 more. However it’s all personal preference! I’ve been wearing the 3s for almost two years and love them especially for leg days.
They provide great stability which I did not get from my other shoes that were too soft, but they’re still flexible enough for fast-paced workouts. That was my issue when I got the regular Metcon (not the Free Metcon). I loved them when I was lifting, but I could barely move around in them because they were too stiff. Will never workout without these now. They actually live by our door because I wear them so much, I never put them back in the closet! My years of searching for my favorite workout shoes have come to an end…for now.
Lululemon Align High Rise Pant 25″ ($98) & High Rise Short 6″ ($58)
I wear both for lifting and yoga. They’re buttery soft and supportive without squeezing me in too tight, so I can move comfortably.
A lot of people do high-intensity with their Aligns and complain they pill and don’t last. Well, they weren’t meant for those types of workouts! My Aligns have lasted so long that whenever Patryk wants to gift me new workout pants, I say no because I already have enough (Who am I?!). My Aligns are still in such good shape at least 4 years later, and it’s not looking like I’ll be replacing them soon.
Lululemon Power Stride Tab Socks $38 for 3-pack
Who here hates ankle socks that slip off your feet as you’re just heading out the door or mid-jumping squats?! šāāļø I found the socks, and I will pay premium for them so I never have to pull up my darn socks ever again. When my brother was visiting one summer, we all went to Lululemon just to buy a bunch of socks because they were somehow on sale that day. They’re worth every penny. If we’re talking workout must-haves, these are definitely a must have for anyone, whether you workout or not!
Accessories
I didn’t care much about accessories when I first started, but eventually I found a couple I liked and found helpful over the years. While I don’t use them daily, I’m glad I have them!
Lululemon Reversible (Big) Mat $98
Oh, the love I have for this mat. I mean I got my first yoga mats from TJ Maxx for $9 each. Now my sister uses them under a blanket when she sleeps on my floorš First couple weeks into the pandemic, I used the same yoga mat and the whole thing slipped and flew across the room, and I slid the opposite direction and fell face first. After that, I was on a mission for a new mat if I’m gonna use it daily. Then I remembered a mat I tried a couple times at the Lululemon yoga classes just before lockdown started! So I used my membership birthday discount and splurged on this. I have absolutely no regrets.
Fast forward almost two years later, my yoga mat is well-loved and is sitting next to my desk. I still love it for both high-intensity workouts to slower-paced yoga. It’s got great grip (even for sweaty workouts!) and a really good surface area (I hate moving out of my mat). They have smaller and thinner options too. While this isn’t necessarily in everyone’s workout must-haves, it has become one of mine. I also bought a strap for it that doubles as a stretch strap, as well as a yoga block to go with my mat. They’re bonus items I use regularly alongside my mat that I thought I’d mention.
SKLZ Resistance Bands $19
My resistance bands are so old, like 6 years old, and we still use them regularly at the gym and for at-home workouts. Great for activation, and additional resistance for your workouts when you don’t have the big gym equipment! They’re an affordable investment for something you can use so many ways.
TriggerPoint GRID STK Foam Roller $39
Love this stick foam roller. It’s the easiest way to foam roll without sprawling all over the floor! We use this regularly and it hurts so good when you have sore muscles, which lately I do because we’re just getting back into a consistent workout routine. In fact, I’m gonna use this after I finish this blog post! It’s also good for tight muscles from stress or sitting too long at my desk…
That’s it for me! What are your favorite workout must-haves?
