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Gear Review: Ibex Wicking Clothes

FitSugar — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:00:07 -0700

If you're looking for some new wicking gear, then you've got to check out the Balance Seamless Collection made by Ibex. Made from sustainable merino wool and a hint of Spandex, these base layers are soft, stretchy, and flattering. With cooler temperatures heading our way, it is time to think about layering for outdoor exercise.

Pictured on the left is the Balance Sports Top ($59). It has a built-in shelf bra that's great for A through C cup sizes, but only for medium- to low-impact sports. So I wore the Balance Support Bra ($69) underneath for a nice long run. Wearing a bra and top made of wicking material is incredibly comfortable because they pull sweat off your skin and let it breathe; I felt dry and fresh throughout my entire workout. I also love the racerback straps that stayed put on my shoulders. The fabric is seamless, so there weren't any irritating ridges rubbing on my skin. They both fit snugly and contour to your body, keeping everything tight and making you feel supported and strong.

Just when I thought I couldn't be more in love with this bra and top, I looked on the inside and noticed that these words were knitted in the material, "I am sick of four walls and a ceiling. I have a need for the sky. I have business with the grass." Talk about inspiration.

To hear more about the rest of the collection read more.

Check out the pics below to see what other tops and bottoms you can get made of this incredible wicking material. Most of them come in a few different colors so check out the Ibex website for more details. Wicking intimate base layers are a must if you're active because they can prevent rashes, chaffing, and yeast infections. I know these aren't cheap, but isn't your comfort worth it?

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If you want to hear more about fitness gear or share about gear you have, check out the Good Gear/Bad Gear Group.

Winterize Your Running: Wicking Clothes Are a Must

FitSugar — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:00:00 -0800

Don't let the cold weather keep you from running. You just need the right gear to stay warm. And that gear should be made of wicking fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin. They help keep you dry and warm. Start the slideshow to see some of my faves.

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Pearl Izumi Gets Technical

FitSugar — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:30:06 -0700

Pearl Izumi ruffled some feathers with its ad campaign pitting runner against joggers, but regardless they make amazing biking gear. Recently, the company released clothing made with four technical fabrics designed to reduce drag, regulate body temperature, and address the problems of moisture. They sent me a few items to check out, which meant a couple of bike rides and a spin class over the course of a few days - any excuse to hop on my bike.

The fabric used to construct P.R.O. Octane Shorts ($225) feels more luxurious than anything I have ever worn for a workout. These lightweight shorts feel great on as well. The technical fabric used in their construction is designed to keep a rider cool during a hot competition. In the hot spin I took wearing them, they did just that. Honestly, the price of these shorts indicates they are truly made for elite high mileage riders or serious competitors. I hope to wear them soon for a distance ride, but don't think I would ever drop that much dough on shorts.

To read about the other two more affordable items, just read more.

The W's Transfer Short Sleeve Baselayer ($50) worked well on a cold, yet sweaty ride. My core stayed warm and dry as I powered up hills and sped down the descents. It's made with Pearl Izumi trademarked Minerale fabric, a polyester fortified with carbon based minerals to improve wicking and keep the stink out of the shirt. After a three hour, sweaty ride the smelled only a little bit and the small amount of smell washed out easily. A short sleeve base layer for Autumn biking worked well for me. This shirt is seriously lightweight and tailored to fit the female form.

My favorite piece is the P.R.O. Barrier Lite Jacket ($95.00). A solid windbreaker can save you on a cold and blustery ride, and this windbreaker did just that. Should the sun come out and the wind dies down, this jacket packs down small to easily fit in a the back pocket of a biking jersey. I am impressed with how thin the material was yet how much wind protection it offered. This jacket might be pricey, but as long as it is not raining I think I can wear it all year long. I would wear it to run too.

All three items are available at the Pearl Izumi website. Look for them at your local bike shop too.

Running Tips: From Treadmill to Trail

FitSugar — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 05:50:06 -0700

Blistery hot Summer weather is cooling down, so those of you who were running in air-conditioned gyms can now move your workouts outside. Not only can you can advantage of the fresh air and nonexistent monthly fee, but if you opt for trail running instead of hitting the sidewalk or bike path, you'll end up burning 10 percent more calories. Keep these tips in mind when switching from the treadmill to the trails.

Buy some trail running shoes. Their soles are more rugged so they can handle slippery or uneven terrain. Trail runners also tend to be sturdier to support your foot while moving on the softer surface.
Wicking socks are a must. Sweat and wetness in your socks that may spray up from the ground can lead to blisters, so wear socks made of Merino wool or some other wicking material to pull moisture away from your skin.
Start off slow and easy. Trail running is much harder than running on a treadmill because of the hills, unpredictable terrain, and natural obstacles, and because your muscles are propelling your body forward instead of a moving belt. Run at a slower pace and for shorter periods of time. Don't be afraid to walk if you need to, and gradually build up your endurance as you're ready.

For more essential tips, keep reading

Drip Tips: Exercising in Summer Rain

FitSugar — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 05:55:00 -0700

For many of us, exercising in the Summer weather is no picnic. The heat and humidity can make it unbearable, not to mention, it can be a health risk. So when the clouds roll in and rain starts to sprinkle from the sky, it can offer relief. What's that? You've never considered exercising in the rain? It's time to give it a try since it be a really exhilarating experience. You just need to arm yourself with these tips.

Check the weather map. A little drizzle is much easier to run in than a full on downpour. Be patient and wait for a bad storm to pass before heading outside.
Just because it's raining, doesn't mean you need to get wet. Wear a lightweight raincoat like this one from REI ($119). It's made of breathable material, so it'll keep you dry on the outside and cool on the inside.
Get a pair of shorts or pants made of waterproof material that will repel water.

For more essential tips keep reading

You Asked: I Started Exercising, But Now I'm Breaking Out!

FitSugar — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 16:00:00 -0700

Dear Fit,
I just got on an exercise kick and joined a gym. I've been doing 30 minutes of cardio three times a week and finishing with 30 minutes of strength training and stretching. I feel amazing and am starting to lose weight, but now I have a new problem - acne. And it's not just on my face. I have it on my neck and back too. How can I prevent this?
- Blemished Back

Acne and bacne can be unfortunate side effects of exercise, especially in hot weather. There are definitely ways to prevent breakouts caused by sweating.

Wash your face before working out to remove excess oil and makeup that can clog your pores. Then apply a facial moisturizer that's made for acne-prone skin such as Neutrogena's Oil-Free Anti-Acne Moisturizer.
Always wear clean workout clothes, and choose sports bras and tank tops with shoulder straps rather than racerback style. You want the skin on your back to breathe as much as possible, and if there's material covering it, heat, sweat, and bacteria get trapped, which can lead to bacne. Also, the more your skin is covered, the hotter you'll feel, and the more you'll sweat, which also leads to breakouts.
Wear clothes made of wicking material that pulls sweat off the skin.

To find out what else read more.

After cardio, wash your face before you strength train and stretch. Also dry the rest of your body off. You can even change into a dry bra and top if you're especially prone to bacne.
Shower immediately after you're done exercising. Not only does it rinse the sweat and pimple-causing bacteria off your skin, but the water also helps to cool your body temperature down so you don't continue sweating once you get out. Don't have time to shower? Definitely wash your face and put on clean, dry clothes.
Unclog pores and remove dead skins cells from your skin by exfoliating in the shower with loofah gloves. They're gentle enough to use everyday on your face and the rest of your body. Use the gloves with an antibacterial cleanser such as Cetaphil, or soaps that have acne medicine in them, such as salicylic acid.

Whatever you do, don't stop working out. If acne is still a problem after trying out these tips, see a dermatologist.

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You Asked: What Should I Expect From My First Bikram Yoga Class?

FitSugar — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 11:00:00 -0700

Hey Fit,
I'm going to try out Bikram yoga for the first time next week, and I'm a little unclear on what to expect (and a little nervous). I know it's going to be hot, so I'm wondering if you have any tips or things that I should (and shouldn't) do that day so that I get through the class feeling good instead of feeling like I might pass out halfway through - foods to stay away from, should I hydrate more than usual, etc.?
Thanks!
tlsgirl

This is a great question since Bikram yoga is becoming increasingly popular. To find out how to prepare for your first class, read more.

In Bikram yoga the room is heated to about 105ºF, so that means you can expect to sweat - a lot. To prevent dehydration, drink at least four liters of water (about 128 ounces) on the day of class. Don't eat two to three hours before since it's best to do yoga on an empty stomach. A few days prior to class, you can prepare your body by consuming at least 64 ounces of water each day. Also cut down on caffeinated beverages and processed foods.

Bring your own mat and a big towel to absorb your sweat. Wear comfortable clothes, preferably something fitted made out of wicking material. Many women wear tank tops or sports bras and spandex shorts. If you wear baggy clothes, they'll become annoyingly heavy with your sweat.

Just to warn you, the studio may have a mirror on one side that everyone faces. This is to help you with correct alignment, and not meant to make you feel bad about yourself. You'll be led through a series of 26 postures by an instructor who may be wearing a microphone. She may walk around and assist you, meaning she'll give you verbal cues or touch your body to help you do poses correctly. Before class begins, it may be a good idea to let the instructor know it's your first time.

Since most people aren't used to working out in this kind of heat, you may feel dizzy, nauseous, or tired during or after class. You may also get a headache, so continue to drink water. Also know that it's normal to feel extremely hungry or not hungry at all after class. Don't worry about it since it might take your body several weeks to get used to the extreme heat and challenging poses. Many people claim it's the best kind of yoga because it increases their flexibility, strength, and energy. So have fun at your first class!

Ho Ho Ho! Healthy Gift Cards

FitSugar — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 13:05:03 -0800

Sometimes it's tough to pick out the right gift for that special someone. In those cases, a gift card is a great option, especially as a stocking stuffer. It lets the gifted know you're thinking of them but allows them to pick out something they really want or need. But you still want to encourage the people on your list to live healthy lifestyles, right? Here are some gift cards that will do just that.

Patagonia: Great technical clothes for active people, from wicking underwear and warm Capilene tops to windproof fleece jackets.
iTunes: The recipient can buy individual songs, albums, or workout playlists to help motivate her while she exercises.

For all of my picks, read more.

Whole Foods: Not only does this store have terrific organic produce and fresh baked whole grain breads, but it's also a great place to pick up supplements and natural beauty products.
EMS: The recipient can choose between outdoor clothes, shoes, climbing gear, skis, camping gear, and much more.
The North Face: A leader in outdoor clothing, this brand also has gear such as tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and anything you'd need for your next outdoor adventure.
REI: Perfect for everything from clothes and outdoor gear to gifts for active pet and neat gadgets such as heart rate monitors and two-way radios.
Nike: Great sneakers, clothes, and equipment for the active person.

If I Won a $1,000 Nike Gift Card . . .

FitSugar — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 03:30:00 -0800

Nike may have started out as a sneaker company, but they also make gear that is flattering and fun to wear. This is why we are excited to be offering a $1000 gift card from Nike along with other great prizes in our Get Fit for 2009 giveaway. If I had $1000 to spend on Nike gear, I would definitely invest in a pair of Zoom Sister One+ training shoes. These shoes are so light on your feet, they make strength training feel like a dance.

My other major splurge would be the Monika Club Bag ($160); full of pockets for organizing all your gym gear, the bag even comes with a "dirty clothes" bag to help keep your sweaty duds separate.

My shopping spree wouldn't end there. To see what else I would choose read more.

The Nike Spring collection is full of color, hot pink and cobalt blue, and long shirts. Yay! No more worrying about showing off more of your backside than you intended. Nike uses their special blend of Dri-Fit fabric, which wicks away sweat without feeling synthetic, in some colorful striped long tanks ($30) - perfect for any workout out. Sticking with the "long" theme, Nike has created a fitted zip hoodie that will cover your bum too.

I would round out my $1000 with some hot pink training shorts for the girlish tomboy look as well as a hot pink Dri-Fit top to keep me cool when I am running hot.

If you won a $1000 Nike gift card, what would you get?

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You Asked: My First Winter Running Outdoors

FitSugar — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 05:30:00 -0800

Dear Fit,
I've been running consistently, at least three times a week for a couple years now. I live where the Winters are cold and snowy, and last year I moved all my workouts and runs into a gym, but I really didn't love it. I decided that this year, I wouldn't let the cold stop me from continuing my outdoor runs. Can you give me some advice for dealing with the cold, snow, and ice?
- Not Afraid of the Cold Carla

First of all, good for you for staying motivated to run outside, even when Winter is in full force. I'm sure many readers can relate to feeling disgruntled about ending their runs outside. To hear some tips on how to deal with the cold conditions read more.

Wearing wicking clothes is a must, and be sure your gear blocks the wind. Avoid overdressing because you'll end up sweating, which will make you freeze.
Prevent frostbite by wearing gloves and slightly thicker socks. You'll also want to wear one of those face and neck masks to protect your cheeks and nose. You may look a little weird, but people already think you're crazy for running in the Winter, so who cares, right?
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun's reflection on the snow.
If you prefer running in a few inches of snow (or don't have the option not to), spring for a pair of sporty waterproof boots, or racing snowshoes. Wear a pair of gaitors to keep your lower legs dry.
If you want to wear your sneakers, and there's only an inch of snow on the ground, you can attach a pair of YakTrax to the soles of your shoes to add traction. Get a set of the Yaktrax Pro ($30), since these are made for running.
After your run, get out of your wet clothes immediately. Staying in them can put you at risk for hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature).
Another important thing to keep in mind is that sometimes the conditions won't allow for a Winter run. If the temps drop in the single digits or below zero, or the ground is covered in ice or black ice, remember that it's OK to choose the treadmill. You don't want to risk injuring or overexerting yourself.

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