Layers & Leggings

Posted on June 20, 2013 by Kendall

With wavering weather and lots of rain this spring, I have found a new fitness fashion routine, layers and leggings. Layers, must be hooded and light (did I mention the excessive rain in Boston?) and leggings must be short and light for air flow when it is sunny. Pair with sneakers or cute sandals and I’m ready to teach!

 

My favorite light-weight hoodies: 

SoLow Eclon Stripe Track Jacket

SoLow Eclon Stripe Track Jacket

SoLow Eclon Stripe Track Jacket is the perfect simple zip-up hoodie that goes with everything. I love the thumb holes! It’s made from eclon which is wicking and Blue- Sign Certified sustainable.

 

PrAna Chai Hoodie

PrAna Chai Hoodie

The PrAna Chai Hoodie is knit, light and has beautiful detailing. I’m a big fan of the burnout style and the color purple!

 

Ryka Hypnotic Hoodie

Ryka Hypnotic Hoodie

I really like shapely stitching and a scoop neck. These details make the Ryke Hypnotic Hoodie extremely figure flattering . The Hypnotic Hoodie has thumb holes and is moisture wicking.

 

My favorite cropped leggings: 

SoLow Eclon Crop Leggings

SoLow Eclon High Waist Crop Leggings

The SoLow Eclon High Waist Crop Leggings are fabulous for any type of fitness class. I really like the high waist for fitness clothing so it doesn’t fall down in downward facing dog. I love the crop pants and of course, they are light weight which is one of my warm weather requirements.

 

Margarita Activewear Capri #1202T

Margarita Activewear Capri #1202T

I know, more purple activewear. I have the Margarita Activewear Capri #1202T and I’m obsessed with them. When I first got them I couldn’t believe how tiny they were. I didn’t think I could ever fit into them but they are super stretchy, light and they fit perfectly! The capri is really soft and makes you look amazing with their body slimming design. I highly recommend this capri for a light summer legging that’s very versatile.

 

Tell us on twitter and facebook… What are your favorite layers and leggings?

Posted in Margarita Activewear, prAna, Ryka, SoLow | Comments Off

Get Your Asana On, Yoga Mats

Posted on June 14, 2013 by Kendall

Finding the right yoga mat is like finding the right sports bra, it’s unique for what you are comfortable with. Design, size, shape, padding, and texture are all factors when selecting the right yoga mat. The good thing is, we have a huge yoga mat selection!

Manduka ProLite

Manduka ProLite

As a yoga instructor, I step on a lot of mats! I borrow mats from places where I teach and I also get a feel for my students mats when I assist during class. I recently purchased a Manduka ProLite in purple. I love my ProLite! It’s thick enough for my knee to feel padded enough in lunges and has just the right amount of grip without my feet getting stuck to it when transitioning from pose to pose. I really like that it is not super heavy (4lbs) so I can carry it around without much effort. The mat also comes with a lifetime guarantee! Talk about getting your money’s worth!

 

Manduka eKO Lite Mat

Manduka eKO Lite Mat

If you are a traveling yogi or yogini, the Manduka eKO Lite Mat is for you. It’s about 2lbs and folds up into a bag or suitcase, ready to use wherever you feel like breaking out into yoga poses. Stretching before and after plane and car rides is important to lengthen your spine and release your hips. The eKO Lite Mate doesn’t stretch and is tightly woven so it won’t absorb bacteria. Since traveling isn’t always the cleanliest adventure, this feature is very helpful for staying healthy and bacteria free!

 

Bolder 7 Chakra Heaven Yoga Mat

Bolder 7 Chakra Heaven Yoga Mat

If you are looking for a mat that has a pattern or is more spiritual, the Bolder 7 Chakra Heaven Yoga Mat is a great option. Its bright red color and 7 chakra orbs are centering for your yoga or meditation practice.

Tell us on twitter and facebook… What type of yoga mat do you prefer?

Always consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.

 

Posted in Bolder Yoga Mats, Manduka, Uncategorized, Yoga | Comments Off

Spin Clothes for a Smooth Ride

Posted on June 12, 2013 by Kendall

I can attest first hand that it is really important to wear spin specific pants when biking, spinning and cycling. In college, I went to a spin class with long yoga pants that were a little ripped at the bottom. A loose piece of fabric got stuck in the bike and was cutting off my circulation. I had to rip the pants to get my leg free. I wasn’t hurt, just a little flustered. I hiked up my pants and kept going. Afterwards, my friends and I had a good laugh and now I have a good story. Moral of the story, don’t mess with long or lose pants in spin. Get the right gear for a smooth ride.

 

Long and Sleek:

Terry Knicker

Terry Knicker

The Terry Knicker is a great pair of pair of biking crops. They are longer than shorts but not a full length capri or legging, keeping them light and keeping you cool. The Knicker is sleek with a multi panel design. They even come in plus sizes.

 

Short Short:

Terry Bella Short Short

Terry Bella Short Short

Looking for something a little smaller? The Terry Bicycle Bella Short Short is for you. It has six flat stitched panels that are form fitting and comfortable. The hem has a silicone leg gripper and the 4 way stretch keeps your legs cool with its breathability. They are also made in the USA!

 

Length without Losing Your Pants:

Terry Women's Coolweather Tights

Terry Women’s Coolweather Tights

If you don’t want to lose your pants in a bike (like I did) but still want a full length pant, try the Terry Women’s Coolweather Tight. These tights are designed to be worn without any other layers and are lightweight and durable. There is padding in the pants but they are also very sleek and breathable. The perfect mix for spinning or bike riding.

 

Tell us on twitter and facebook if you have had a bike mishap? What style pant or short do you like to wear when biking?

 

Always consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.

Posted in Terry, Uncategorized | Comments Off

Balance Your Energy in Juil Sandals

Posted on June 8, 2013 by Kendall

Did you know that standing could balance your energy? Well I didn’t either! Juil creates classic shoes that distribute your weight to balance your energy and to keep you feeling grounded. It’s like yoga for your toes!

Juil Hera Sandals Patent Black
Juil Hera Sandals Patent Black

Summer is here and it’s important to find a stylish and comfortable sandal to walk in. These shoes are perfect for the beach, walking around the city, walking the dog and running around checking tasks off your list. Feel comfortable and grounded in Juil.

 

For the girl who likes to shine:

Juil Hera Sandals Patent Black
Juil Hera Sandals Patent Black

The Juil Hera Sandals in Patent Black are really cute with their shiny black patent and classic thin strap.  I really like the contrasting black on tan. Definitely a sandal that can go with any outfit from jeans to a beach coverup.

 

For the girl who likes to make a statement:

Juil Brio Sandals Pewter
Juil Brio Sandals Pewter

I love the shiny and thick straps in the Juil Brio Sandals in Pewter. The pewter color is still a neutral that you could wear everywhere but you are absolutely making a bit more of a statement in these comfortable kicks.

 

For the girl who pays attention to detail:

Juil Mojanda Sandals Orange
Juil Mojanda Sandals Orange

The Juil Mojanda Sandals in Orange are so fun with the muted orange color and strappy details. The intricate straps dress the sandal up a bit and would even look great in a casual office setting. They also come in a gorgeous white and classic black.

 

For the girly-girl: 

Juil Brio Sandals in Magenta

Juil Brio Sandal in Magenta

 

Oh my Magenta! The Juil Brio Sandals in Magenta are perfect for the oh so pink girly-girls. Even if you aren’t, its always fun to add a pop of bright color on a classic sandal. I’m a big fan of the wide strap too. It creates a great bold look.

 

Tell us on twitter and facebook, do you have a favorite pair?

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National Running Day Gear

Posted on June 6, 2013 by Kendall

Today is National Running Day! We asked you all on facebook why you run. Answers included; staying in shape, alone time, and enjoying running with your dogs. To celebrate, we wanted to highlight some of our favorite running essentials.

 

Essential #1 (for the ladies) A Great Sports Bra

Be Up Circuit Bra

Be Up Circuit Bra

When picking the right sports bra it depends on how much support you need. If you are like me, you could get away with a built in shelf bra. If you are like my sister and you don’t have the right bra, you will need to double up your bras which I heard was not fun. To prevent doubling up, its important to find the right fit and support. We love the Be Up Circuit Bra because its breathable, holds its shape, moisture wicking and has a four way stretch. It also comes with removable padding which is always a plus!

 

Essential #2 Running Pants

2XU Women's Compression 3/4 Tights

2XU Women’s Compression 3/4 Tights

2XU is known to be one of the “ultimate” performance brands. The technology is outstanding. The Women’s Compression 3/4 Tights uses PWX FLEX for flexibility and mobility. The tights provide superior support to the legs, abductors and gluts which also helps relieve damage and fatigue.

 

Essential #3 Breathable Top

LIJA Mesh Overlay Tank Top

LIJA Mesh Overlay Tank Top

The LIJA Mesh Overlay Tank is practical and fashionable. The built in double bra overlay peeks through in the front and wraps all the way around to the back. Its a racerback which is really comfortable when jogging, running, walking or a mix of the three.  As previously mentioned, if you need less support the Mesh Overlay Tank has a shelf bra.

 

Essential #4 Hydration

Fuel Belt Hydration R20 Outdoor Belt

Fuel Belt Hydration R20 Outdoor Belt

It is so easy to overheat and become dehydrated especially in the summer months. Make sure you have a stylish, smart and easily accessible belt to hydrate you along way such as the Fuel Belt Revenge Series R20 Outdoor Bottle Belt. The easy, one handed access is perfect for getting a drink mid stride.

 

Tell us on twitter and facebook… Did you celebrate national running day? What are your running essentials?

Always consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.

Posted in 2XU, Be Up, Fuel Belt, LIJA, Running | Comments Off

Bluefish Activewear, Bright Pattern Outfit for Summer

Posted on June 1, 2013 by Kendall

It’s amazing how it can feel like summer overnight. Here in Boston it went from freezing cold temperatures to a heatwave in a matter of days. Luckily, I was in Florida for the weekend having fun in the sun. I love traveling and especially to Florida where there are palm trees all around and the activewear clothing is sassy and so much fun!

One of my favorite companies is Bluefish Activewear, based in Miami, FL. Bluefish is not afraid to flaunt patters and bight colors! Their clothing definitely makes you want to hit a workout class or go for an outdoor workout. Wherever you wear them, you will absolutely stand out of the crowd!
The Bluefish Go For It Bra is absolutely gorgeous!

Bluefish Go For It Bra

Bluefish Go For It Bra

Bluefish Go For It Bra

Bluefish Go For It Bra

I really think it looks like a piece of artwork. The print above is actually called “Fine Art”. I’m loving the unique pattern, bold colors, the long length and the amazing back. It’s not just a pretty face, this bra is built for performance. The Go For It Bra is breathable, sweat wicking and doesn’t pull on your neck but is still supportive. It comes in a total of five patterns.

Want to make your bra to your pants, check out the Sexy Legging from Bluefish.

Bluefish Sexy Legging

Bluefish Sexy Legging

These pants are seriously sexy. As the picture above shows, you can even get away with wearing heels! The angle and seaming is really figure flattering. When you aren’t strutting your stuff in heels and instead breaking a sweat working out, the Sexy Leggings will hold up for even the most intense workout. They are sweat wicking, quick drying, light and keeps their shape after being washed.

 

Tell us what your favorite pattern is from Bluefish on twitter and facebook!

 

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A Day of Booty Lifting from Style Firm

Posted on May 30, 2013 by Kendall

Do you remember my post a month ago about Style Firm? I had the pleasure of speaking with Marissa Mills one of the co owners and learned all about their Firming, Lifting, Tightening Clothing.

I was lucky enough to try the famous Absolute Bootcut Pants.

Style Firm Absolute Bootcut

Style Firm Absolute Bootcut

I love the bootcut pants. They seriously hold you in. The fabric is thick and supportive, because of this, panty lines are not visible. I really think this is a plus for comfort.

Style Firm’s pants can go from day to night so I thought I’d walk you through one of my many days in the pants.

Morning: Teach a group yoga class in Boston.

I felt comfortable moving assisting and cruising around my yoga class. I could easily move around but I felt like I was being held in nicely.

Afternoon: Walk the puppy.

I have a little French Bulldog puppy. She is almost 8 months old and she has been shedding a lot lately. I have a lint roller on hand all of the time because of my little lady. We went for a nice walk around my neighborhood and I noticed that her hair did not stick to my pants. I realized that it was because of the close knit fabric and the quality and thickness that Style Firm uses. This is such a plus for me because really, who wants to avoid their puppy before leaving the house and who wants to be lint rolling their bum all day? Not me!

Afternoon: Corporate yoga.

When I teach corporate yoga its a bit different than my other group classes. It’s a tiny bit more formal. I try to be a little bit more put together so I love wearing my Absolute Boot Cut pants when teaching to my laptop loving yoginis.

Evening: Dinner with a friend.

After corporate yoga I went straight to Thai food to meet a friend. Perfect ending to any day right? Food was delicious and I felt fabulous transitioning from class to a casual evening with my friend and tofu pad thai.

Truthfully, I always “save” my Absolute Bootcut pants for classes or fitness meetings for when I really want to look and feel good. They are my feel-good, look-twice-in-the-mirror pants. We all need a pair of those right?

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Tennis, Best Dressed Sport?

Posted on May 24, 2013 by Kendall

I wish I were good at tennis. I really tried last year but it resulted in a broken tennis racket and a bunch of lost balls. Fitness is my thing, but actual sports, not so much. Playing tennis seems like so much fun and I know people obsess over their court time but  whats even better is the clothing. It has to be one of the best dressed sports! The short frilly skirts and adorable shirts are my favorite. I might just have to play dress up on a walk this summer… On to the clothes!

 

LIJA Deuce Skort

LIJA Deuce Skort

Lija-4238S-Deuce-Skort-Glam1-detail

One of my favorite frilly tennis skirts is actually a skort. Remember skorts? Basically, you could go to school, look cute and still play on the monkey bars.  Well, look cute and play tennis in this LIJA Clothing Deuce Skort.

 

Margarita Activewear Skirt #750

Margarita Activewear Skirt #750

The Margarita Activewear Skirt #750 looks like you could definitely wear the skirt out or on the tennis court. I absolutely love the pattern  and look but it also has some amazing features. The skirt has a body slimming design, its breathable and sweat wicking, it keeps it shape and dries quickly. You will definitely make a fashion statement on the tennis court!

 

LIJA Arcade Tank Top

LIJA Arcade Tank Top

The LIJA Clothing Arcade Tank is another favorite tennis top of mine. I definitely think you can wear it to all different types of activities. It has a great shelf bra and mesh detailed seaming. The V-neck and seaming under the chest is very flattering.

 

Zobha Anya Dress

Zobha Anya Dress

Zobha-Anya-Dress-Emerald1-detail

On to the dresses! If you read the ActivewearUSA blog frequently, you know my love of putting on one piece of clothing. Its easy, simple and looks great. The Zobha Anya Dress is one of my absolute favorite tennis dresses. It is feminine, flattering and the Emerald/Capri color is beautiful. There is a shelf bra with removable cups, pleated skirt and the back design is so much fun.

Are you a tennis gal? What is your favorite piece? Tell us on twitter and facebook!

Posted in LIJA, Margarita Activewear, tennis, Uncategorized, Zobha | Comments Off

The Cool Kind of Head Gear

Posted on May 23, 2013 by Kendall

Remember head gear? Or did you block it out of your memories from your middle school days? We can pretend that it never happened and focus on the cool kind of head gear, like head bands to keep your hair and sweat out of your face while keeping style in the forefront of your mind, literally.

Its always fun to wear something different but chic. Check out the Cozy Orange Hatha Headband. I love this headband for a few reasons:

Cozy Orange Hatha Headband

Cozy Orange Hatha Headband

1. The width is great for wild hair days. In the summer, I wear my hair curly a lot. I think curls would look really cute in the Hatha Headband.

2. It’s made from recycled plastic bottles! I’m always a fan when fashionable items are made from recycled materials. Good job Cozy Orange!

3. It’s adjustable. Just like the rest of our bodies, we all have different size heads, too. I like when a headband is snug but not cutting off my circulation. It’s great to have options!

 

You know when your favorite headband stretches out and loses shape? Well, this Lole Thea Headband will not do that!

Lole Thea Headband

Lole Thea Headband

Reasons why you need the Thea Headband:

1. The Supplex, nylon and Lycra keep the headband from losing its shape and stretching out.

2. The triple strap keeps triple the amount of sweaty tresses out of your face.

3. It’s also cute! Technology is great but technology paired with looks, even better!

 

I have a test; when something is on sale, pretend that it isn’t and see if you still want it at full price to make sure you actually use and love the product. Is it functional? Practical? Fashionable? If you answered yes to all three, then by all means buy it. One of my favorite items that is totally functional, practical and fashionable is on sale! Check out the Prana Women’s Reversible Headband.

Prana Women's Reversible Headband

Prana Women’s Reversible Headband

Why I love this head gear:

1. Reversible clothes and accessories always catch my attention. It’s like you are buying two new items!

2. It comes in 5 unique colors and patterns.

3. It’s comfortable, stretchy, and keeps sweat at bay.

 

Tell us, what is your favorite cool kind of head gear is on twitter and facebook!

Posted in Cozy Orange, Lole, prAna, Uncategorized | Comments Off

The Best Review We Ever Had

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Kendall

We wanted to share the best review we have ever received. Thank you Dr. Karen!

Margarita Pants #805

Margarita Pants #805

At the end of 2010, I re-visited my Bucket List!!! As a physician passionate about my two specialties, i.e., Ophthalmology and Age Management Medicine, I am always seeking to continue my education. This allows me to add value to my community at large and my community of loved ones. So, as part of my commitment starting in 2011 and at the age of 52 years, I decided to be a founding member of an outstanding group of exercise enthusiasts – SELF (Sisters Engaged in Life-Long Fitness). The goals of this closed Facebook group were to exercise 234 days a year; and either accomplish a half marathon or a 50-mile bike tour. In my local city of Shreveport, LA, I excitedly involved myself in various exercise forms, not only for the above challenge but to share with my Health and Wellness patients. I had a chance to explore some exciting exercise activities and support local lady-owned businesses, some of whom are my patients. When I plan my days, I aim to use my body as a canvas for which I can be creative…looking my best!!! The same holds true while exercising, because from a psychological standpoint, this concept allows me to perform well. By networking with my “Zumba Goddess” Instructor, I discovered ACTIVEWEARUSA!!! With the professional guidance of “Sweet Leyla”, I immediately ordered my first pair of the Margarita Pants (#805, ribbon) for the scheduled Zumbathon Fund-Raiser, supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Because I love speaking with Leyla, she assisted me in my next order of Margarita Pants (#510, daisy).

Margarita Pants #510

Margarita Pants #510

When I received them I wore them to all of my classes – Hula Hoop, Belly Dancing, Zumba, Aerial Yoga, Pilates and even Fencing. Everyone I encountered both in class and causally complimented me (the pants) and they literally wanted to take the pants off of me!!! The better plan was not to undress but to give them the website; and Leyla and/or Avi as “the contacts”. So, as per my medical practice’s mantra: Be Healthy…Look Better…Perform Well…I certainly prescribe ACTIVEWEARUSA!!! Thank you ACTIVEWEARUSA for adding to my ” Feminine Mystique”!!! Karen M. Pendleton, M.D. aka “Dr. Karen”

Posted in Margarita Activewear, Review, Uncategorized | Comments Off