A couple months ago, I bit the bullet and joined the gym where I work. It’s a fantastic facility, it’s super-cheap, and I can go on my lunch hour. Perfect!

It only took me six years to work up the nerve to join.

Why? Because I was afraid. The gym to which I’m referring is a university recreational center, which means it’s chock full of young and thin girls who are in great shape.

I am none of these three things!

I finally took the plunge and joined, but I seriously second-guessed my decision the first day. Not only was everyone around me younger, thinner and in better shape that me, but no one else was wearing baggy, worn-out, bleach-stained workout clothes.

I couldn’t automatically make myself younger, thinner or in better shape, but I decided I could definitely find some better clothes.

I put out a plea for fantastic workout clothes for women, and over the last several weeks I’ve had the opportunity to test out some really great stuff. Take a look:

Beyond Yoga

I’m not much of a yoga-er, but I might become one if I get to wear these clothes. Here’s a little background on the line:
Beyond Yoga was created by yogini-designer Jodi Guber to fit and flatter everybody and every body. The irresistibly soft, sweat-wicking Supplex and Organic Pima Cotton make Beyond Yoga the must-have active gear for Moms on the go. Whether you’re at a morning yoga session or workout, lunch with friends, carpooling, or afternoon errands, these easy pieces are designed to transition seamlessly and take you all through the day.
I love my Beyond Yoga pants and top! I have been absolutely living in them the last few weeks. They’re so comfortable and soft, and fit so well. I also love that in addition to the comfort, they’re stylish and give me confidence!

Kalyx Sports Bra

There’s really nothing like a mirror smack dab in front of the treadmill to let you know if your sports bra is doing the trick, and let me tell you, mine wasn’t. I always have a hard time finding a sports bra that’s supportive enough, even though after nursing my second kid, there’s not much left to support! I really like the Uplift Max from Kalyx, though. When I first received it, I wasn’t sure I would like it, because the fabric didn’t seem like it was, well, solid enough to do the job. When I put it on and gave it a test, run, though, I was pleasantly surprised. The bra provides a lot of support while still being comfortable – something I hadn’t been sure was possible! Another great thing about this line is that they have sports-specific bras, so you can find exactly what you need whether you’re golfing or running a marathon. Very cool.

BSkinz Activewear

If you’re looking for a way to make a statement when you work out, look no further than BSkinz! BSkinz is a line of spandex/compression shorts, leggings, capris, skirts, skorts, and sports bras in a fun, funky assortment of patterns. They’ve got everything from solid colors to stripes to tie-dye! I love the tie-dye sports bra I have – and while I would never, ever in a million years wear it by itself (hello tummy flab!), I think it’s fun to wear under a tank top! I also like the skort – it’s not something I would have picked out, probably (working out in a skort??), but that’s only because I wouldn’t have thought about it! I actually really like it – it has the functionality of stretch pants (aka no riding up!) without showing off everything you’ve got!

So there you have it – my best finds in workout gear for women. And in case you were wondering, joining the gym has totally been worth it – especially now that I’m not wearing my old sweats!