gym bags

Considering my everyday handbag is large enough to carry more things than necessary, I was happy to receive the roomy Lululemon Hobo Bag ($118) for review. At 15 inches wide by 13.5 inches tall, this bag is made to fit everything you'll need before and after your workout, whether that's a sweaty Bikram class or a heart-pounding gym session.

After a few weeks of trucking the bag to and from work, the gym, and yoga class, I've gotten used to being able to lug around more gear than I probably should. For one, the Hobo bag holds its shape whether it's packed or empty, which makes it easy to fill when I'm getting my gear ready at night. A surprising number of pockets and compartments makes gym organization easy too — there are three interior mesh pockets, one zippered, for small items (most pockets have a label, like "before," "after", "keys," and, naturally, "chocolate"), not to mention a strap to hold your yoga mat (it will stick out of the unzipped top). On the outside there are two large zippered compartments that can fit your clothes, and two outside pockets for anything from a yoga towel to your phone; they also have toggle ties, which will keep your water bottle from spilling. With these organizational amenities it's no wonder the bag can fit everything I need; in addition to my shoes, sports bra, pants, cosmetics bag, and multiple workout shirts, I'm able to stuff my laptop in it as well.

Read on for more on my thoughts about the Hot Yoga Hobo.

There's not much time between PE class and the next period! Calm your tween's nerves by sending her off to gym class with a few beauty products that will come in handy when she has to forgo hitting the showers. This way she can focus on keeping fit and having fun!

• When you're dodging balls, climbing ropes, and running miles, a girl's got to keep the hair out of her eyes! Forever 21's metallic ties add a bit of sparkle and come in packs of 18.
• Boscia blotting papers are a quick way to absorb moisture when there's no time to shower.
• A natural and subtly scented deodorant spray from Origins keeps a tween fresh.
• The Body Shop's gentle and eco-friendly brush will put tresses back in place.
• A small bag like those at Sephora are perfect for stowing jewelry during class.