Gaiam

CES

First Look at Gaiam's Zen-Inducing Cases and Earbuds

Achieve digital enlightenment with Gaiam's new yogi-inspired tablet and ereader cases and earbuds.

Achieve digital enlightenment with Gaiam's new yogi-inspired tablet and ereader cases and earbuds. The maker of popular yoga and fitness products is branching into tech accessories, adding a natural, spiritual spin on audio gear and cases for active lifestyles. Gaiam launched its new tech line at CES, and we got a first look at the wood- and fabric-covered accessories.

The cases and earbuds aren't available for retail yet, but we'll keep you posted once they are. Check out Gaiam's take on tech, and let us know if you'd want to "ommm" with these nature-inspired accessories by your side.

Pilates

Gaiam CorePlus Reformer: For a Pilates Workout Anywhere, Anytime!

The Gaiam CorePlus Reformer Kit is one of FitSugar's favorite ways to get a dynamic resistance workout without the use of bulky, expensive equipment or having to take a trip to a Pilates studio.

The Gaiam CorePlus Reformer Kit is one of FitSugar's favorite ways to get a dynamic resistance workout without the use of bulky, expensive equipment or having to take a trip to a Pilates studio. It tones, strengthens, and stretches the entire body anywhere, so it's great to use in your home gym or to pack in your suitcase. And bonus — when you purchase this Gaiam CorePlus Reformer on ActivewearUSA.com, you'll get free shipping!

Eco

Green Your Fitness: 5 Eco-Friendly Companies Doing It the Right Way

We're all for companies adding eco-friendly gear to their lines, but what makes us really happy is when a company commits itself to the environment by adopting a sustainable business model.
Patagonia

We're all for companies adding eco-friendly gear to their lines, but what makes us really happy is when a company commits itself to the environment by adopting a sustainable business model. Because, let's face it, caring about the planet involves much more than offering one organic shirt in your line. From where they source their materials to the kind of energy their buildings run on, here are five companies that we already love for their athletic gear, but who impress us even more for the eco-friendly ways they run their business.

Yoga

Yoga Blocks Come in All Shapes and Sizes

Yoga blocks aren't just for the injured or inflexible.
How to Use Different Styles of Yoga Blocks

Yoga blocks aren't just for the injured or inflexible. Since these lightweight gems offer stability in both beginner poses like Triangle to more advanced moves like Forearm Stand, yogis of all abilities find blocks useful. Blocks help to deepen stretches and allow you to hold poses longer, helping to increase flexibility. If you're confused by all the different shapes and sizes, here's an explanation. So the next time you need a little support, you'll know which block to grab.

Eco

Conscious Shopping: Five Eco-Chic Pieces We Love!

Just further proof that eco-friendly shopping doesn't have to be hippie-dippy — we've rounded up five totally chic pieces with sustainable materials and a socially, environmentally conscious approach to fashion.
Eco-Friendly Jewelry and Accessories

Just further proof that eco-friendly shopping doesn't have to be hippie-dippy — we've rounded up five totally chic pieces with sustainable materials and a socially, environmentally conscious approach to fashion. From recycled metals and repurposed products come some very cool pieces — click through for the five on our wish list right now!

Yoga

5 Yoga Bags For Bikram Yoga Enthusiasts

Slipless towels for hot yoga?
5 Yoga Bags For Bikram Yoga Enthusiasts

Slipless towels for hot yoga? Check. But now that I have the perfect towel and mat, I need a fashionable bag that will effortlessly carry both. Fear not my fire breathing Bikram yogis, there are bags specifically designed to transport your mat, towel, and accessories to yoga class. I've rounded up some of my faves here. And if you're looking for a regular yoga mat bag that fits your unique style and personality, here are some colorful handmade yoga bags from Etsy that are sure to grab your attention.

Source: Flickr User lululemon athletica

Yoga

Which Yoga Mat Is Your All-Time Favorite?

Since I've been studying the basics of yoga, I've been in the market for a yoga mat to call my own.
What Is the Best Yoga Mat?

Since I've been studying the basics of yoga, I've been in the market for a yoga mat to call my own. While I have an old one that I bought while trying out yoga for the first time, I know it's time to invest in a durable mat that I can use for many years. So I've rounded up five popular mats that have graced the floors of countless studios across the world. Click through to see if your favorite one is included, and at the end vote on which one you think is the best!

Source: Thinkstock

Strength Training

Gear Review: Gaiam Core Balance Kit

Toned abs not only look amazing in a bathing suit, but they're also important because they make activities like running, biking, and swimming easier.

Toned abs not only look amazing in a bathing suit, but they're also important because they make activities like running, biking, and swimming easier. Plus a strong core makes for better posture, too. If you've ever done strength training exercises on an exercise ball or Bosu, you know that the unsteady base forces you to engage other muscles aside from the ones you're trying to target. That's the idea behind using the balance pods in Gaiam's Core Balance Kit ($30).

To find out more about this kit and to see a video clip of how to use the balance pods, keep reading

Eco

Fit For April: Must Haves

I love the arrival of Spring, so April is one of my favorite times of year.
Eco-Friendly Fitness Products For Earth Day

I love the arrival of Spring, so April is one of my favorite times of year. It makes total sense that Earth Day falls during April, too. We all get to head outdoors for our workouts and celebrate everything that the planet has to offer. Our April picks are all about being fit, but in the most responsible way. You'll find gear that is made in sustainable ways using responsible materials, and it's my hope that you'll even be inspired to plant a tree or two!

DVD Review

DVD Review: Valerie Bertinelli — Losing It and Keeping Fit

Valerie Bertinelli dramatically transformed her body over the last couple of years, and to help others find success, she made a new fitness video, Valerie Bertinelli — Losing It and Keeping Fit ($15).

Valerie Bertinelli dramatically transformed her body over the last couple of years, and to help others find success, she made a new fitness video, Valerie Bertinelli — Losing It and Keeping Fit ($15). It's led by her personal trainer Christopher Ross Lane, who has also trained Jillian Michaels.

This video includes two workouts: 20-minute Body Basics and 40-minute Keeping Fit. The first video, aimed at beginners, reviews basic strength-training moves as well as proper form. It's also a good workout if you're short on time, and let me tell you, the word "basic" doesn't mean easy. These challenging moves effectively target your glutes, quads, hamstrings, abs, upper back, and arms. You feel like you're joining Valerie in a private session with her trainer. The workout includes a lot of mat work like push-ups, Superman lifts, and reverse crunches, along with familiar moves like squats and lunges.

To hear about what I didn't like, read more