Anyone passionate about fitness can attest to amassing a gym gear collection. Here are some of my tried-and-true fitness favorites from activewear to water bottles, resistance bands to yoga mats.
P.S. they’re all budget-friendly!
Leggings: Kamo Fitness
Kamo fitness leggings were my first investment pieces - even though their prices are super affordable, ranging around $15 -- $40. Kamo Fitness' quality is a massive step up compared to generic Target, Walmart, or fashion leggings. These 25" Serenity Leggings come in a great variety of patterns and colors, are super soft and stretchy, and - my favorite part - have no invasive front seam! I wear Kamo Fitness leggings several times per week, and they've held up through every kind of workout.
Tank Tops: Old Navy's First Layer Tanks
I generally avoid Old Navy's activewear line, but I love their basic tanks! These first-layer tank tops come in lots of neutral colors, great for pairing with vibrant or neutral leggings. The ribbed version currently comes in many bright, energizing colors, perfect in or out of the gym. While they're not specifically designed for the gym, I find that they are still incredibly comfortable, breathable, and flattering. Plus, I purchased mine for only $6.00 each!
Sports Bra: BCG Women's Zip-Front Sports Bra
These BCG sports bras from Academy are surprisingly supportive for only $20. The padding is removable, and the front features a hook-and-zip closure with a little zipper cover for comfort. The racerback design won't dig into your upper back - one of my pet peeves with many sports bras. I find myself consistently reaching for this bra for workouts with lots of variety.
Protein Powder: Vega Protein & Greens
To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of shakes or smoothies, but I understand the importance of protein when it comes to achieving fitness goals. Vega's Protein & Greens gives me the confidence that I'm meeting my necessary protein intake with the added benefit of "greens." Each serving has 20g of vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly protein. I'm currently loving the vanilla flavor, but if vanilla isn't your thing, the berry, chocolate, or unflavored varieties are great too!
Yes, I am someone who takes creatine. For those unaware, creatine is a natural compound found in meat and fish. Creatine has been shown to improve strength, promote lean muscle growth, and reduce recovery time. As a vegan, it is very hard, if not impossible, to find sources of creatine outside of supplements. There are good and bad creatine supplements (re: itching), but I'd say Transparent Labs' creatine falls under the good category due to its pure ingredients. I have only tried the orange flavor, which is great and not too sweet, and I'm excited to try more!
Water Bottle: Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth Water Bottle
You could say I'm a fan of the classics when it comes to water vessels. We've used Nalgene bottles on camping trips since I was a kid. They're generously sized, colorful, washable, and extremely durable. No matter where I go, you'll catch me toting one of these babies around.
Yoga Mat(s): Society6 and Five Below
I have two yoga mats - one for my home and one for the gym and yoga classes. I prefer to use my home mat, my nicer mat from Society6, as a sacred space (not adorned with gym floor grime). My cheaper mat from Five Below was only $5.00, and even though it has held up reasonably well, I plan on replacing it once it gets too worn. Five Below also has yoga blocks if you prefer to bring your own to class like me. Both sellers have a good variety of colors and patterns for their mats, but with the thousands of artistic prints at Society6, you're sure to find your Zen.
Headphones: Apple Airpods (2nd Generation)
What gym kit would be complete without a kick-ass playlist? The Apple Airpods are a little pricey, but in my opinion, they are worth every penny for their seamless Bluetooth connection, excellent sound quality, and ability to stay in my ears at every angle (I'm looking at you, downward dog). I received my first pair as a gift from a friend, and weeks later bought a pair for my boyfriend, who instantly loved them. If you're going to splurge on anything for the gym, I recommend starting with these.
I hope you've enjoyed reading about some of my favorite gym gear! Leave me a comment or send a message below to tell me about your collection and what I should try next!