Keep your workout cute…with a few fun eco tweaks
I absolutely love the ability to workout and move my body whether it be on a hike outdoors or on a bike at the gym. It truly helps me feel confident, powerful, and reduces my stress throughout the week. Sometimes it's hard to prioritize, but even if it's 30 minutes, I try to make it happen each week.
Over the last year I've tried to make my workout attire and gear a bit more sustainable, and here are the things I have done or added to my collection along with some things I wish I would have done! I have included links and ideas for everything from the budget-friendly workout down to the workout equipment splurge. I have also included some of my favorite outfits, accessories, and the app I'm loving the most right now that gets me outside!
Cute and eco-conscious workout wear
1. SheThinx Sport Period Undies- perfect for when you need them with a leak-free workout-friendly fit.
2. Allbirds Running Shoes- perfect for rainy weather. Washable and made from renewable and natural materials.
3. Girlfriend Collective Sports Bra- diverted 11 water bottles from the landfill, and when you're finished with it you can recycle it through their ReGirlfriend program.
4. Adidas x Parley Run For The Oceans Tank Top- made with upcycled plastic waste intercepted on remote islands, beaches, coastal communities and shorelines, preventing it from polluting our oceans.
5. Good Days Biker Short with Pockets- constructed from recycled polyester which comes from post-consumer plastic waste such as plastic bottles.
6. Lane Eight Trainers- perfect for your days in the gym, made with sustainable and recycled materials like algae and plastic.
7. Conscious step ankle socks- support Habitat for Humanity and their work to build safe housing for needy families.
Keep reading to find out more about my favorite eco-accessories, the app that gets me outdoors even on my laziest days, and budget-friendly tips!
Cute Eco-Workout Accessories
1. HydroFlask reusable water bottle- keeps water ice cold for up to 24 hours and comes with a lifetime warranty.
2. Adidas gym bag- Any gym bag will do, just get one you love so you can use it for many years. This one Adidas x Stella McCartney is made from 100% recycled polyester plain weave and is such a classic style and color it's sure to stay in style for years to come.
3. Meow Meow Tweet deodorant- a powerful deodorant stick that comes in a compostable tube. I've used this one for over a year now and it's gotten me through countless workouts and hot summer days smelling fresh.
4. House of Marley Earbuds- I CANNOT workout without music so, these are a great eco-option, and price comparable to Apple. Made from solid bamboo, recyclable aluminum, and natural wood fiber composite.
My favorite workout app to get outdoors
During the pandemic I tested out several workout apps to keep me motivated for both in-home and outdoor exercise since I couldn't go to the gym or spin-class. I absolutely fell in love with the Peloton app, and the outdoor classes were the only reason I got outside as the months grew colder and the days got shorter. I still use it to this day, so I think that's a testament to how much I enjoy them!
Final thoughts and budget-friendly tips
Finding eco-conscious workout options is not always easy, so hopefully some of these links can give you some great ideas about what's possible! Some of them are investment pieces, so here are other budget-friendly tips to keep your workout a little more sustainable!
1. Consider equipment rentals. I honestly never knew this was a possibility until everything was shutdown during the pandemic and my local spin studio started offering bike rentals with delivery to your home! If you're not ready to commit either due to the crazy cost or want to test out equipment, try a rental!
2. Go to local yard/garage sales. There's always someones workout equipment at those things, and honestly after the spike of people being overly ambitious about working out while being at home during the pandemic and buying out all available equipment gear, you're sure to see an increase of this!
3. Ask on your local facebook Buy Nothing Group. This has been a wonderful resource for me and is a wonderful way to be a part of your community! Usually if you ask, someone is always willing to part with it or offer other solutions you may have never thought of. If you have one, join your local group! I'm always amazed with the wonderful things people part with.
Here I am on my rented bike from my local spin studio in Alexandria, VA taking a Peloton spin class, wearing my Girlfriend Collective Sports Bra!