workout gear

Everyone knows that nothing should ever come between a lady and her purse. It's what's in our magic bag of tricks that gets us through the day, although we're often guilty of a heavy load. The next time you go to lighten up or toss those lingering receipts, consider adding a few healthy essentials to the mix. From snacks to sanitizer, it may be what's in the bag, and not the actual bag that makes you feel like a million bucks!

• Floss: Aside from being an essential for oral hygiene, floss will help you avoid any possible (and awkward) post-salad moments. If you tend to have a sweet tooth, having dental floss handy in your purse is especially important since it wards off plaque.
• Hand Sanitizer: Need we say more? With everything that you and your hands come in contact with, hand sanitizer is an important part of staying healthy. Although it may not be foolproof, it's better to be safe than sorry!
• Stevia: Until all-natural sweeteners become more readily available at restaurants and cafes, consider making stevia a purse essential. Because it is a natural herb, it is a healthy, no-calorie option when compared to Splenda, making your daily cup of coffee all the merrier.
• Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, but sometimes it can be hard to do on the go. Rather than assuming water will be available or having to purchase a bottle wherever you go, keep a glass bottle ($20) on hand. You'll be surprised at how many times you'll reach for it and staying hydrated won't seem like a chore. For an extra bonus, keep a pack of Emergen-C with you during cold and flu season.
• Healthy snacks: Healthy snacks are key for staying on track and avoiding unhealthy temptations. Small snacks like Luna Minis or your own homemade energy bars will keep hunger at bay between meals and workouts.
• First aid kit: In case of an emergency (or a blister from your run) it's always good to have a bandage or two. A small first aid kit like the Minimergency Kit ($13) has everything from a bandage to some pain-reliever — just in case the unexpected occurs.

The perfect pair of workout pants, an exercise ball, a set of weights: investing in your fitness routine can add up. But it doesn't have to be expensive; here's how to save a few dollars on exercise equipment.

Know when to save and when to splurge: You don't have to throw down a ton of money for each part of your outfit, but you do want to make sure that you're not buying clothes that fall apart after just a few workouts. Certain foundation articles can be well worth the money, like a supportive sports bra or wear-anywhere workout capris, while you can save on other pieces, like workout tanks. Find out which workout clothes you can save on here.

Search for used equipment: Ever buy a piece of fitness equipment only to have it languish in a corner of your garage, gathering dust? You're not alone. If there's a big-ticket piece of equipment on your fitness wish list, check out sites like Craigslist or eBay, where you can buy it used and save some money, or ask friends if they have any unwanted equipment they'd like to get rid of. Many times the equipment will still be high quality and you'll save money over springing for the newest model.

Use what you have: You don't have to invest in an entire home gym as soon as you start your workout regime. Use what you already have around the house, like cans from your pantry for weights or towels as sliders, until you figure out just what equipment you'd like to invest in. Here are five workouts that use what you've already got at home.

Go outside: The world is your gym, so when temperatures make it easier to exercise outside, use it to your advantage. Benches, trees, and parks make for a simple way to work out, whether you are strength training or doing cardio. If snow never stops you, read these tips on working out safely outside during Winter, and check out our ideas for taking your workout outside.

A new gym membership is cause for a new pair of shoes, and not just ones that match your workout outfit. Here are a few things to remember when you are shopping for shoes to sport at the gym.

Weight lifting: When lifting weights, it's important that you have a firm, flat grip on the ground. This ensures proper form and that your stance offers you a safe grip — especially important if you are lifting heavy. Don't wear your high-tech, thick-soled running shoes in the weight room; stick with flat-soled shoes or barefoot-running styles to keep your weight-lifting routine safe and effective.

Gym class: A cardio or strength-training class habit means you need some supportive shoes. The constant jumping and side-to-side shuffling you do in class means you should invest in a pair of shoes that provide ample cushioning and support as well as grip. You may also appreciate shoes with a wide toe box for optimal movement in class. Look for minimalist cross-trainers that offer arch and ankle support without the bulk; they are light enough to keep your feet from feeling heavy or overheated.

Treadmill time: If you clock in miles on the treadmill every time you go to the gym, you should invest in running shoes. Choose shoes that give you the support you need based on how you run; overpronators, for example, need shoes that keep their feet from rolling inward while they run. For more tips on how to pick the right running shoe, read our advice here, and find out more about pronation and running styles here.