As I’ve said before, I love to eat. Always have, always will. But I haven’t been blessed with the fastest metabolism, so in order to eat what I want, I gotta WORK for it.

I haven’t always been into fitness though. About seven years ago, I decided I needed a lifestyle change. No more eating more than my dad. No more having secret chip nights with Ash (what can we say – Graham’s love chips). No more sitting on my booty while my friends and family were out there getting their sweat on. So, I signed up for Weight Watchers and got my booty to the gym. When I started seeing results – and more importantly noticing how much better and healthier I was feeling – I was hooked.

Over the last seven years, I’ve tried out a lot of products. To save you time and money, I thought I’d share my top 5 fitness necessities.

(**This post is not sponsored or affiliated with any products of the companies/products listed below. These are simply the fitness products I love that help me get my sweat on!)

MUSIC

It doesn’t matter what kind of workout I’m doing – I’ve got to have music! So, I turn on my Apple Music and get my sweat on. I can turn on my own playlist (okay I mean one that Abigail usually sends me) or I can choose one of the many playlists Apple has curated for hundreds of different activities. All that’s left to do is crank it up and get to work!

 

HEADPHONES

 

I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to spend a lot of money on headphones… primarily because I lose them often. But, having a pair that stay in my ears when I’m working out is essential. While Ash and I were training for a half marathon last year, we came across Yurbuds. These little buddies were lifesavers! Not only were they super inexpensive (about $20), but they stayed in our ears so we could get in the zone.

 

 

 

ENERGY SUPPLEMENTS

 

I am not usually a big fan of workout supplements. But, I am a big fan of my XS Energy + Focus supplement. I often workout at night, after a long day of work. So, when I need a little extra energy, I take one tablet and I’m ready to go. Don’t worry though, this tablet is all natural – made from natural caffeine from green tea extract and rhodiola rosea.

 

 

 

ACTIVITY MONITOR

I actually just purchased my first heart rate monitor (Polar – FT7) and I’m now asking myself how I ever worked out without it! This little device tells me the number of calories I burn during each workout. Which in turn tells me what kind of post-workout snack I should have (in other words how much more food this food-loving girl gets to have each day). It was easy to set up, is water-resistant (I sweat a lot, okay) and not only tells me if I’m hitting my target zones during my exercise, but also tracks how many calories I burned. Oh and it’s affordable too (no $300 watches for me thanks). Enough said.

 

 

LEGGINGS

I’m a firm believer that a great outfit makes for an even better workout. Because when I’m gross and sweaty, I at least want my outfit to look good. But in all seriousness, when you find the right pair of leggings it’s worth celebrating.

I’ll let you in on a little secret though… my fav brand doesn’t break the bank! It’s 90 Degree by Reflex and can be found at stores like TJMaxx, Marshalls, Nordstrom Rack, Walmart and more. Not only are they inexpensive, but they are comfortable, have the right amount of elasticity and come in some fun colors. Shop the look here.

 

 

So friends, now you can get your shop on so you can get your sweat on!

Happy sweating!

Hayley