By Lisa Miller

As a mother and a martial artist, I realize how important it is to get in a workout during the week. The stress relief and confidence that exercise brings to your routine is indispensable. Whether you’re there for the weights or the eye candy, a solid wardrobe for hitting the gym (or doing any kind of exercise) is a must.

If you’re going to splurge on anything in your wardrobe, let it be sports bras and athletic pants. A flattering pair of pants that isn’t see-through will do wonders for your ego. The same goes for a well-made athletic bra; who can focus on a workout with their breasts smacking them in the face? People tend to skimp on their exercise wardrobe because they aren’t trying to impress anyone. However, every woman I see yanking her tee-shirt down to cover her butt or camel toe mid-stride on the treadmill screams a different story. And, really, how many exercise outfits do you need? Surely you can buy yourself one quality get-up that won’t wear out from a couple of thighs rubbing together and get a little self-esteem out of the deal.

Lastly, how many of us run a few errands on the way home from the gym and, horrifyingly, end up seeing someone we know? At least this way, sweating aside, you’ll look put-together and your quality work out clothes will be holding you in (and up) in all the right places.

Yoga Pants ($98/Lululemon)

Kristin and I both agree Lululemon is the place to go for yoga pants. These two options, the Still Grounded Pant (5) and the Skinny Will Pant (6), are both figure-flattering and hold their shape forever. My Still pants from Lululemon have lasted through daily yoga practice and two pregnancies with little to no signs of wear and tear.

Puma Gym Bag, 9 ($69.99/eBags)

This lightweight bag has adequate space and a ventilated compartment for smelly gym shoes.

Sports Bra

These two options from Lululemon are great choices. The Energy Bra (3), $48, offers flexibility and support. For those who like to travel light, we recommend the Stuff Your Bra II (4), $52. An excellent feature for on-the-go moms. Three front pockets hold necessities, such as cash, IPOD, and cell phone.

Gaiam Purple Dual Grip Headband, 8 ($9.84/Target)

The two elastic bands will keep it from slipping off your head.

 ASICS Women’s GEL-Blur33 TR Cross-Training Shoe, 11 ($46.04-$99.95/Amazon)

This ASICS gym shoe offers gel for comfort and support and a mesh material for breathability. Endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association, they keep feet happy. A cross-training shoe offers flexibility; wear them for power strolling, tennis or weightlifting.

Mini Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag, Charcoal, 10 ($9.95/Amazon)

Slip these moisture absorbing sachets into your gym shoes post workout for some odor fighting action. A fresh smelling car is a must when carting your kids and their friends about town, even with sweaty gym clothes in the back. Not to mention, keeping shoes smelling fresh will help them last longer, saving you money. Use it again: Why stop at your gym bag? Add a pair to your kids’ sports bag and your husband’s ripe sneakers for natural deodorization.

Ideology Active Tee, 7 (sale $27.99, reg. $32.00/Macy’s)

Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you feeling dry.

THE NORTH FACE Women’s Sharlet Wrap, 2 ($49.98/Sports Authority – free two-day shipping)

Stylish with a cowl neckline and asymmetrical zip, this sweater has added length in the back for hiding any unseemly panty lines. Wear it again: Paired with skinny jeans or a flowy skirt, this unique jacket makes a statement.

THE NORTH FACE Women’s Corralitos Wrap, 1 ($34.98-$45.00/Sports Authority- free two-day shipping)

This lightweight wrap cinches at the waist to show off those curves and skims lightly over any excess tummy. Wear it again: Layer over a dress or tee outside the gym.

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