Day 20: New workout clothes for a New You!

So I have a confession to make. It is Day 20 of the new year and I still haven't been to the gym yet. This very unlike me! I usually hit the gym really hard the beginning of the year, and it counteracts all the poor food decisions of the previous month. Maybe I'm still recovering from the holidays, but this week I have no excuses.  

You want to know why? Because I just got a new workout wardrobe!  

I just couldn't resist a sale, and with it I got enough fun pieces to ensure that I go to the gym more than once a week. Sometimes you just need that extra push, that extra motivation like a workout buddy, a new playlist you can't stop listening to, or some light as air printed leggings from Reebok and Addidas.  

Need something more casual yet warm to wear when you run outside? Try a pastel colored retro Addidas sweatpants. Pair these bottoms with a few coordinating tees, along with a geometric Puma sports bra, and you're "Ready ta ga!"

Day 229: Hit the barre!

Today I discovered barre3.  I've taken barre classes before, but never something online or through a video (or without a barre!).  Founder and instructor Sadie Lincoln uses a simple kitchen counter to go through a sequence of moves that not only breaks a sweat, but tones your butt and thighs.  If you think by looking at this video it looks easy, trust me, it is a challenge!  One that I intend to take tomorrow!

Check out this video which is a 10-minute barre exercise that you can do every morning in your kitchen.  If you like what you see, you can find a barre3 studio near you, or join on-line to continue the workouts from the comfort of your own home!

Founder and instructor Sadie Lincoln.

Day 22: How to increase your steps per day

1.  Skip the elevator, use stairs whenever possible.

2.  Park your car far away.

3.  Chase your kid or dog around.

4.  Make multiple trips to your car when unloading it.

5.  Walk in place while watching TV.

6.  While doing housework, including making multiple trips.

7.  Instead of driving, walk if you can.

8.  Take a walk during lunch.

9.  When at an airport, take laps instead of sitting at the gate.

10.  If all else fails, 20 minutes at a brisk pace outside or on the treadmill will help you reach your goal!

Day 6: Work it with a new wardrobe

Need some motivation to get yourself to the gym?  Here are a few reasons to get you off the couch and in the move!  Having a few key favorite pieces will help you build a great workout wardrobe as well as a great body.  It'll help you feel good by wearing things that you like!

Start with a good pair of sneakers.  Many athletic shoe stores have knowledgeable staff that help direct you to the right pair.  If running is your thing, they will even observe your gait on a treadmill to help you decide.  

Having comfortable track pants are also important.  Many yoga stores have popped up the past decade that also fill this need.  Not to mention help you transition from your errands to a workout.  

Hint: start your Saturday's off in workout clothes!  You'll be more likely to hit the gym later on in the day!

Need a few other accessories? Get a Fitbit to help you monitor how active you are.  You can even log your calories and compete with your friends!  

Reebok slim fit black pants; RBX patterned pants;  Adidas walking sneakers;  Under Armor "urban uptown" French terry cloth hoodie;  Lulu lemon yoga pants; Adidas love shirt.  

Put together and ready for a work out with an Aerie lace bra.

Day 2: The Pre-Shower Mini Workout

Getting in shape is a common new year's resolution.  One recent pin-worthy item making the rounds is a pre-shower workout routine.  Sometimes just the thought of facing a strict one hour, six days a week workout can seem daunting.  However, a quick five-minute circuit on days that you can't make it to the gym can help prevent a total derailment of your fitness goals!  This is the very simple four step routine, plus some jacks and lunges.  This entire routine takes just under five minutes!  

If you have more time, or want to make it more challenging, here are some suggestions:

- increase the reps

- repeat the cycle, once or twice

- for more cardio add some mountain-climbers and/or high-knees

- add plie squats

- add back and/or side lunges

Good Luck!