In My Bag: My workout essentials (pregnant or not)


Last week, just before we left for Tahoe, I stopped into Old Navy to try out the latest from their Active line. I’d been invited to try it out and was a little hesitant about looking at new clothes this late in my pregnancy, but I honestly loved everything. And the kicker? I bypassed the maternity section entirely. They actually do have a great selection of maternity workout clothes, but these will work for everyone—pregnant or not. (And all Active wear is 40% off right now!)

Truth: I haven’t been that great about working out these past few months. I was super-active at the start, so hopefully my body will take pity on me and remember that! Either way, I’m happy to have found some workout clothes that look sleek enough to also lounge around in—now and after the baby arrives. If memory serves, stretchy yoga pants are key.

Some more essentials…


workout essentials

1. Comfortable, attractive clothes: The price point and design of Old Navy Active is awesome. I especially liked their Adjustable-Straps Sports Bra, their Mesh-bubble tank, and their  1/4-zip jacket (all of which I’m wearing in these photos). The bubble-tank and the jacket both had enough stretch for me to wear while pregnant—and will be comfortable (i.e. not too clingy) afterward, too. Both tops are tag-less and the jacket has longer sleeves with a thumbhole for cool weather warm-ups. These Cinch-tie Hoodies are a nice, warm-up option, too.

My pants are GapFit (can’t find these anymore, sadly), but I brought home a new pair of the Active by Old Navy Cross-front panel Yoga Pants. The design of the panel means I can wear it under my belly without contending with uncomfortable elastic; there’s a lot of flexibility in the fit. The back rise is higher than usual, but I like knowing that I won’t have to worry about plumber-syndrome at the gym. Many prefer the look of compression capris for workouts, but I might actually use these as leggings in other scenarios.

2. Appropriate, supportive shoes: Obviously, the definition of this is entirely up to you. Really, I just like these retro New Balance 420 Sneakers because I think they’re pretty. If I were going to seriously go running, I’d make a different choice.

3. Headband and/or hair-tie that stays put: This Sweaty Bands Headband is the only one I’ve tried that doesn’t slip backwards. The underside is lined with velvet.

4. Reliable, Sport Headphones

 and an ArmPocket: The ArmPocket holds a smartphone as well as keys, cash, and credit cards.

5. Basic Gym Bag with a towel and water bottle: I’d tote a  SportLite RatTowel and bkr glass bottle in a reusable Baggu Bag

 to a class.

(And I’ve never really taken to Yoga, but if I had, I’d definitely choose this Magic Carpet Yoga Mat)

This post was sponsored by Old Navy. But all opinions expressed are my own. Check out Old Navy’s latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com.

And P.S. On a totally unrelated note, I LOVE the new chiffon shirts at Old Navy and am going to go back in soon to try on their faux-leather, single-strap sandals.


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