Strike a Pose

Posted by Kim Forrest, Editorial Intern, whose obsessions include her mini-poodle, Cosmo.

I hate working out. I'm the girl who picked flowers during Little League practice, who could never hit a volleyball over the net in gym. But since I graduated from college, I've been trying to make more of an effort in my athletic pursuits. Since I can't stand lifting weights and get bored on the treadmill, I started taking yoga at my local gym. Still, I often couldn't focus on the instructor. Instead, I spent time admiring a classmate's perfect workout ensemble: pink V-neck top, stretchy capris, and matching headband. Doing Downward Dog in my college tee and ratty sweatpants, I once again felt like a middle-schooler watching her friends run laps around her.

Then, I overheard my stylish yogi friend telling the instructor the secret to her fitness-fashion success: Lululemon, a Canadian chain with locations throughout the U.S. and the best-kept secret in the yoga studio. Its built-in-bra tops and workout pants work for every body type, and there are loads of fun accessories, like mats and headbands. When I visited my local Lululemon, I found dancers from the School of American Ballet picking up gauzy wrap skirts and leotards, runners buying zip-up jackets and water bottles, and fellow newbies buying cute ensembles that make working out less of a drag. Lulu's shopping bag doubles as a gym tote, and some stores even offer free yoga classes. I was sold.

I bought an outfit (white sleeveless top, and black pants with a polka-dot waistband) and headed to class. This time, it felt different. As I transitioned from a lunge to Warrior Two, I glimpsed myself in the mirror. Even though I was sweaty and my hair was falling out of its bun, I looked pretty darn good. I finally felt like maybe, just maybe, I fit into this strange, new world of exercise. I think next I'll try Pilates. Or kickboxing. Or get a trainer. Or, um, maybe I shouldn't get ahead of myself.

looking like a pro ... sort of

Comments

[Jennifer Maciel]

lululemon has been the #1 workout store for me for a couple of years now! I am lucky enough to live in Toronto -- their warehouse sale in december is well worth the 3-hour line up in the SNOW! I'm plus-sized and their gear fits me, comfortably. lovelovelove my lulu.

[Ashlynn]

I absolutely LOVE this store! I was in Canada last summer & bought a couple pairs of shorts (long & short) & they were well worth the money! I also have a headwrap I love that I found on eBay since there isn't a store near me.

[S]

I really love pilates, I started with Yoga but moved to Pilates and love it!

[B]

lululemon is super popular here in Canada and with good reason. The workout clothes are super comfortable and really do make you look good while working out. I love that I can wear there tops with a bra already built in, they are great! And the colours that are available is just amazing... the only problem is that it can turn into an addiction fast! ;)

[maria]

I'm loving that top! I wish I could order their stuff online, its all so awesome. I much prefer the pilates & yoga routines vs the treadmill & weights.

[Sara]

Aren't those pants lovely? (And, they're reversible!) I highly recommend Pilates, by the way.