My Fitness Must-Haves + a Giveaway!

Whenever I can, I try to squeeze in a workout almost every day. I feel so much better when I do- it reduces stress, gives me energy and keeps me focused so I can be the best version of myself– as a mother, wife and employee.  Plus, it’s important for me to set a good example for my son.  When it comes to fitness, it really helps to have the right gear (and hey, a new workout DVD or outfit is always a nice to keep you motivated along the way!) Here’s my current fitness must-haves: 1// DVDs (exact) I started doing T25 workouts post-baby for several months and loved that they were intense and got me working up a good sweat in only 25 minutes. But after a while, I was ready to change it up and have been doing the 21 Day Fix DVDs. About 30 minutes each and a great workout. Beachbody knows how to put together a great program- especially if you are tight on time! 2// Water bottle (exact) Always necessary to have water on hand for workouts, and throughout the day. I love my monogrammed water bottle and I have it with me wherever I am! 3// Sticky socks (my fave, and for more athletic/running socks, these are my go-tos, plus some other great sock recommendations) I love wearing sticky socks throughout the house and for workouts like barre class, yoga and pilates- gives me some extra grip on the wood floors without having to wear slippers.  And even cuter that they make sticky socks for the littles so Bryce and I can match (and is perfect for him as he can use the extra grip when he walks around!)  When it comes to socks I wear with shoes for running, etc. I love Smartwool. 4// Headband (love these) If you have lots of whispies along your hairline like I do (that postpartum hair!), I love wearing a headband like this one that stays put. I’ve tried several other brands and these are the only ones that don’t slide off my head.  I have them in a variety of colors and wear them constantly. 5// Mat (exact) When it comes to ab work, stretching, and any other floor work, you have to have a nice mat. This mat has a ton of cushion and is super thick and holds its shape. It’s amazing. (Why yes, I am emotionally attached to my mat.) Worth the moolah if you ask me! 6// Tank top (fun, affordable options and if you like graphic tanks, these are fun, I wore a few here) Confession: I spend more on workout clothes than my work wardrobe. But technically, my work wardrobe these days is workout clothes since I work from home…so it’s justified, right? Regardless, workout clothes are comfortable and efficient, especially when I can do a quick workout over lunch- no need to change!  I prefer wearing tank tops, finding I have more freedom for movement. 7// Long sleeve/pullover (save, splurge— I own both of these and love them!) As I warm up, I love having another layer and same for after the workout. My “gym” is in my basement and it can get pretty cold, so having some long sleeves are essential! (In fact, just picked up a few in my April clothing purchases.) 8// Capris (save, splurge-waaaant!) I have a weak spot for cute capris. Stripes to prints to solids- I love collecting these bad boys. Perfect for every type of workout. I prefer wearing capris for runs too over shorts (no chafing!).  And a little secret? I prefer to go commando in these. Ever since a couple running pals of mine mentioned they do it, I tried it and never looked back. A game changer, I tell ya! 9// Sports bra (save, splurge) Proper support is essential, and it doesn’t hurt to have a stash of cute sports bras. I had to replace some of my old sports bras recently (they were worn well beyond their life) and what a world of difference it makes! 10// Watch (exact) Ever since I upped my running game a few years ago, I tried my first GPS watch. The technology is incredible! So great when you want to run for distance or time. (I used to own a Garmin and then won a Fitbit. I like the user interface and look of the Fitbit more, but find that the Garmin is a bit more accurate, especially when it comes to stroller runs.) 11// Cottonelle^® Flushable Cleansing Cloths (click here for a coupon!) As I mentioned in #8, it makes all the difference going commando- underwear is the last thing you need standing in the way of setting a PR at a race or showing through your capris in barre class. That’s where these cloths come in. Cottonelle® has CleanRipple Texture in their flushable cleansing cloths and toilet paper gets you clean so you can go without.

And if you are looking for a bag to carry it all, check out these options for hauling your gear.
Cottonelle® has CleanRipple Texture designed to clean better, so you’re clean enough to Go Commando. And for those of you in the Chicagoland area, Cottonelle® is sponsoring the upcoming Wanderlust 108 Festival on May 14. Wanderlust 108 is a triathlon a bit different than the rest. This “mindful triathlon” brings three events together in your favorite local park: a 5K run (or walk), an outdoor yoga experience, and a guided meditation – but with a twist. From DJs on the main stage to lawn activities like hooping, slacklining and acroyoga, to local food and craft vendors, there’s plenty to do when you’re not on your mat. Nationally recognized teachers, speakers and musical talent are featured at each event to make for a fun-filled day. Want to take part in Wanderlust in a warmer locale? Enter their sweepstakes for a chance to win an all-inclusive trip to Wanderlust 108 Festival in Miami on October 22! And even better, I’ve got a sweet giveaway too!  It’s called The Cottonelle® “Come Clean” Reader Giveaway, and up for grabs is a Cottonelle® Stylist Kit ($50 ARV). Each kit will include a selection of fabulous fitness “must haves” — Cottonelle® Flushable Cleansing Cloths, Benefit mascara, Dose of Colors lip gloss, Klorane dry shampoo, Emi Jay hair ties, and a plain black baseball cap. Giveaway starts today at 12:01 a.m. EST and ends at 11: 59 p.m. on May 22, 2016 (the “Entry Period”)  Enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Good luck! a Rafflecopter giveaway

What are your fitness must-haves?

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.