It’s that time of the year. The cold, dreary mornings are a thing of the past, and it is time to step out and embrace the warm, golden sunshine. Whether you prefer those invigorating early morning runs or the intense work-out sessions at the gym, we’ve got the perfect training and running gear mapped out for you!
Packing a gym bag is a fairly routine process- you might even have one always packed and ready to go in the trunk of your car. But how many times have you made a mental note to throw out some of your old work-out gear and look for replacements, but forgotten anyway?
We compiled a list of some of our favorite training and running essentials, equipped with the latest technologies, so you can update your gear and your performance with it.
Apparel:
As obvious as work-out clothes seem when you’re planning to hit the gym or the running track, it’s shockingly easy to forget some of those key pieces. Maybe it’s a clean pair of socks, or your sports bra. Either way, you know the important role right-fitting, breathable apparel plays in achieving better and more comfortable results when exercising. Moisture-wicking technology is a no-brainer, but remember to keep an eye out for UPF 50+ protection if you’re going to be running outdoors!
Men:
The Nike Men’s Dry Training T-Shirt and the New Balance Heather Tech Tee offer the breathable comfort that you need to perform well at the gym or the running track.
The Nike Pro Training Short or the adidas Men’s Designed2Move Woven Short will work best with these tops.
If you will be doing some intense cardio or weights, you’ll need the Under Armour HeatGear Compression Shirt or the Threadborne Compression Top.
To complete your training outfit, you can pair these with the Under Armour HeatGear Compression Short, or the HeatGear Armour Legging.
The New Balance Anticipate 2.0 Top and the Nike Men’s Superset Long Sleeve Training Top are designed specifically to keep you warm and comfortable outdoors during cooler temperatures. Bring these out for your 6 am runs, or simply use them for layering!
Pair these with the Nike Men’s Knit Training Pants.
Women:
From sports bras and tanks to shorts and leggings, here are our top picks:
Nike City Sleek Running Tank, Under Armour Fly By Racerback Tank and the adidas Badge Of Sport Logo Tank are some of our favorite training and running clothes for women.
For extra coverage, the Nike Dri-FIT Legend Training Top, the Nike Miler Running Top and the Under Armour Tech V-Neck are ideal options.
The Nike Pacer Long Sleeve Running Top is perfect for those chilly mornings or evenings. You can use this as a layering option too!
Shorts are an overall staple this season. You can wear these breathable and lightweight running shorts as you head out to run some errands or grab a quick bite. The Nike Tempo Running Shorts are so comfortable you’ll want to live in them! The Under Armour Fly By Shorts are very similar. For intense work-outs and exercises though, you’ll want to opt for the Nike Pro Training Shorts or the Lucky In Love Olympian Training Short.
If leggings are more your style, go for Under Armour’s breathable HeatGear Armour Leggings, or the Armour Fly Fast Tight if you want to spice up your look with a spontaneous print!
If you prefer a capri, the Nike Victory Training Capri is sure to become your go-to for the season.
For supportive sport bras, check out the Nike Victory Sports Bra, the Strappy Light Support Sports Bra, the adidas Don’t Rest 3-Stripes Sports Bra and the adidas Don’t Rest Alphaskin Sports Bra.
Shoes:
Equally important are the correct shoes. If lots of cardio or a long run constitute your daily work-out routine, a well-cushioned and breathable pair of shoes are your best friend. Comfort and the correct fit can take the effectiveness of your training session a long way!
1. ASICS GEL-Nimbus 21 Shoes for Men and Women
2. adidas Solar Boost 19 Shoes for Men and Women
3. Nike Odyssey React Running Shoes for Men and Women
4. Under Armour Men’s HOVR Sonic Shoes and Under Armour Women’s Threadborne Push Training Shoes
Don’t forget those socks! There’s nothing more annoying than your gym charging you extra for a pair. Support, breathability and chafe-free construction are key features.
For those who prefer the low-cut, ankle design:
1. Feetures Elite Cushion Socks
For those who prefer the longer crew socks:
Towels:
A compact, microfiber towel is the way to go here. To keep yourself sweat-free during and after those intense exercises, check out these towels:
3. Mission Athletecare Endurocool Towel
Water Bottles:
For your work-out to sustain longer, whether you’re indoors or outside, hydration is key. Insulated water bottles help keep your water (or your favorite pre/post-workout mix) at the temperature of your preference, but remember to choose a bottle that’s durable, sleek and lightweight for your convenience.
These Takeya and Hydroflask bottles are not only efficient at keeping the beverages hot or cold for longer hours, but also come equipped with a lifetime warranty! Ergonomic designs and sweat-free, powder finishes make these bottles a great find and a valuable investment. The bottles come in different sizes (and a whole bunch of colors) so you can find one that best serves your training routine.
Energy Bars/Snacks:
Nutrition is key if you’re trying to make the most of your training and running sessions. Read our top nutrition tips here to best prepare your body for intense physical activity, but our favorite picks of light, energy-inducing snacks to boost your endurance include the GU non-caffeinated energy gels, Clif Bar energy bars and Honey Stinger energy chews.
And Bags (To Stuff All Of The Above In):
And finally, to update the bag itself! Some sort of internal division is imperative. So are extra compartments to store small essentials like napkins, keys and a portable charger. The Nike Brasilia Gym Sack, Women’s Radiate Training Bag, and Court Advantage Duffel Bag check all the boxes. You can make your choice depending on the amount of gear you carry with you!
There! You can now put your favorite songs on loop and get to work!
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