Post-workout recovery (bliss!)

I know it's been a while... so peek at this post-workout recovery (bliss!) post I wrote for HonestlyJamie.com

Fitness gear review: Lorna Jane

I recently got treated to some new gear by Lorna Jane, an Australian based fitness and lifestyle brand. They've been producing women's activewear for 20+ years, but only recently became available in the US. I decided I needed to try their stuff out after I saw a student wearing a pair of super cute leggings from the brand.

Their clothes have these cute little tags on them:



Here's the strappy tank top (with a polka dot sports bra underneath) after teaching a double last week:


(Can't find it on the LJ website!)
The tank top is made of a super light material. I cut out and threw away the tags already otherwise I'd tell you what they're made of. I know you can't tell from the pictures, but it has really beautifully done mesh inserts. It wicks sweat well and felt great on. It was the perfect fit - not too tight, not too loose, and it moved comfortably with me through my full range of motion.

Here are my new super fun neon! printed leggings:


Lorna Jane Dimension 7/8 tight

The leggings are a sturdier, thicker material than the top, but they still wicked sweat really well. The neon is super vibrant and the pattern is great. They were not see through at all, even in deep squats and full forward bends. They didn't sag or stretch out at all.

Here's the whole ensemble:



Don't mind the funny face.

After more than three hours in the hot room in this outfit, they were still mostly dry to the touch. Both the top and the leggings washed really well (with no fabric softener, and air dried, of course) and they seem like they will be durable, but only time will tell. Overall, I love the clothes, and I'll definitely consider more from Lorna Jane in the future.

I was told in the store that the material will stretch up to15%, which is so practical for the full extension and stretching of a good yoga class. It's also good if you're between sizes. I found them true to size and completely comfortable to wear. The brand offers new styles on a monthly basis, which means they also always have stuff on sale. Their mission statement is "to inspire women to live their best life through Active Living" which is something I can definitely get behind.

Sweat happy - with F21?!

I'm surprised to find these really cute racerback tanks at Forever 21.  They're made of Nylon/Spandex just like most high end workout clothes, and they're perforated which would be perfect for hot yoga. 

This one's only $12.80

And this one's $11.80

I've definitely gotten to the point where I feel ::too old:: to go into Forever 21 - but these workout tops have me reconsidering.  I'll just be sure to go to Williams-Sonoma afterwards and fondle some Le Creuset pieces to bring me back to feeling my age again. 

Sweat happy.

Have you tried Athleta's activewear? I'm a huge fan of their Chaturanga Capri style, and they're offering a ton of fun new prints for spring. I have a few pairs and can definitely vouch for their durability and quality. They're never see through, they wash well*, and they have a great fit. I'm a huge fan of stripes, and I'd love to add these to my wardrobe.

I also absolutely love a good, slouchy, comfy sweatshirt to wear to and from, and this one looks flattering with the strategic seams, long sleeves with thumbholes, and soft fabric.

And nothing makes me happier to workout than a beautifully vibrant, flowing top. I am not a fan of the built-in bra, and it's hard to find cute tops that allow for layering with a real sports bra. This one fits the bill, and comes in spectacular hues. 

I can definitely see myself wearing these! I've had great experiences with all the Athleta store personnel I've worked with; they're welcoming to fitness professionals and everyone else, and offer tons of in-store events and community building opportunities. I recommend giving them a try. 

*Remember, when you're washing workout clothes that have wicking material: DO NOT use fabric softener! It keeps regular clothing soft by leaving residue on the clothes, which will hinder the wicking effect. Also, separate your workout clothes from towels. I've learned the hard way that it does make a difference! You'll prolong the life of your gear and keep it from pilling. It's worth keeping the loads separate.