FitSugar -- Healthy, happy you.

Gear Review: Polar FT60 With GPS

FitSugar — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:30:00 -0800

The folks over at Polar recently sent me a few heart rate monitors to test out. I liked the FT40, but I think I am in love with the FT60 ($239 including chest sensor with changeable battery). Mine is a purple-pink color, reminiscent of raspberry sorbet, so even though it is large it is still somehow feminine and I wear a bunch, even when I am not at the gym. Points for being functional and stylish.

This heart rate monitor not only tracks your heart rate (either in percentage or beats per minute) and totals your calories burned, it keeps track of all your workouts. That's important because you can use the watch to set a fitness goal — lose weight, improve fitness, or maximize fitness. I chose the latter and my watch asks me to work out five hours and 35 minutes a week, and more weeks than not, I rise to the occasion. Yes — my heart rate monitor inspires me to work out.

There are a few more cool features, so

Gear Review: Polar FT40

FitSugar — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:00:00 -0800

The folks over at Polar recently sent me a few watches to test out. First up: the FT40 ($160). Being a woman, I was immediately drawn to its great color and design; it's much cooler than my other heart rate monitors of the past. I have even gotten compliments on it outside of the gym (big brownie points there).

The heart rate monitor does all the normal stuff that an average heart rate monitor does, such as showing your heart rate, calories burned, time, stopwatch, etc., but there are a few goodies that this watch also provides. The EnergyPointer calculates the point where training is turning fat-burning into fitness improvement. It also has a fitness test feature, which is able to measures your aerobic fitness at rest in just five minutes. Both features are very useful for someone who is looking to improve their own fitness without hiring an actual personal trainer.

With this watch, you can also upload all your workout information using a Flowlink (sold separately), which transfers data between the watch and PolarPersonalTrainer.com — a free site that allows you to track your workouts and progress and gives you access to helpful training tips and tools. My only complaint is that the software for the Flowlink is not Mac compatible as of yet. But all in all, I love this watch. It's easy to use and provides great information, making me focus on my workouts so I can fine-tune my training.

Gear Review: Zobha Yoga Cothes

FitSugar — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Since you move your body in so many different ways when practicing yoga or Pilates, you need clothes made out of material that not only moves with you, but keeps you covered no matter what. I hate when tops I have are low-cut, or if the waist on my pants is so low that people see more than they need to. If you're the same way, I just found this great new brand called Zobha that you're going to love. I feel moved to "ooh" and "ahhh" out loud about the fabric. It feels soft and slinky, yet totally durable. When you slip on a tank top or pants, you'll notice that the material hugs you snugly — just the right amount of tight. The clothes stay put, and you know they won't stretch out or fall down. I have the Grace Tank ($56) and the Straight Leg Capris ($60). You can see them in action in the Lower Back Release post. I love the high neck that keeps my girls covered, and the waist of the capris is high enough not to let my crack show when in Down Dog.

Zobha has so many unique styles of tops in so many bold colors. I love their bottoms too, and they have pants and capris in flowy or tight styles. Check out the pictures below to see what I mean.

To see the rest of the tops and bottoms

Gear Review: Nike Women's Gym Club Bag

FitSugar — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:30:00 -0700

I am always on the market for a new gym bag, especially since I'm not so easy on my bags and I go through them fast. I recently got my hands on the Nike Gym Club Bag ($55) and was immediately drawn to its bright colors. But this is more than just a pretty sack, it's extremely handy, too.

My favorite part about the bag is that it's large enough to fit all my gym gear (that's including my sneakers) and my lunch. Grossed out that I am mixing my sneakers with my lunch? Don't be. This bag has a drawstring shoe compartment, which keeps your smelly sneaks away from everything else you're toting around. There is also a pocket for your water bottle and a one of the internal pockets is super soft of the inside, which makes for a great place to store your jewelry while you're sweating your butt off. Another great feature is that along with the two fixed tote-bag straps, the bag comes with a detachable padded-shoulder strap so you can choose how you want to carry it.

I've been using this tote for a while now and the only drawback I can think of is that it's so roomy that I tend to over stuff it, leaving it quite heavy, but I can't really blame the bag for that now can I? Want one for yourself? Buy it from Nike.com.

Gear Review: Perfect Pushup

FitSugar — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 13:00:00 -0700

One of the random benefits of having house guests is getting to play with the toys they accidentally leave behind. My cousin's fiancé is working on his upper body so he can wow us all at their upcoming wedding. One of the tools in his traveling fitness arsenal is the Perfect Pushup ($40). His forgetfulness was my chance to try this "as seen on TV" gizmo, which meant I did many reps of push-ups.

By gripping the handles, the Perfect Pushup definitely protects your wrists. Since you are also slightly elevated off the ground, you work your center in a different way too and this makes the push-up seem more challenging. Since the discs rotate, you can twist your shoulder joints you press back up to the plank, but trying to keep the discs still emphasizes the core engagement of the push-up. I liked using them, but for $40 bucks (plus shipping and handling) I think I will stick all my push-up variations and wrist stretches. What about you?

If you want to see how everyone's favorite trainer Danny Bonaduce uses the Perfect Pushup, well then just

Gear Review: Hyde Yoga Trieger Tank

FitSugar — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:00:00 -0700

When I practice Yoga, I like to keep the girls in place. You know when you're in Down Dog and you notice your chest is slowing falling out of your top. Then have to stop to fix your shirt every five minutes. It can really disrupt your concentration and flow. I was so happy when I found this Yoga Trieger Tank ($42) by Hyde.

The straight neckline ensures that everything stays in place. I also love the thicker straps, so you don't have to worry about them sliding off in your Sun Salutations. It has a shelf bra built in, and I love the unexpected V in the back. Another favorite thing is that this tank is long, so when you raise your arms in Tree pose, your bellybutton won't be peeking out to say hello. It's made with a 92 percent cotton/8 percent spandex blend, so this shirt is comfy and soft like your favorite pair of old PJs. I have it in orange, but it comes in tons of colors like chocolate, black, sky, and lilac. This has quickly become one of my favorite tops.

Gear Review: Splits 59 Eve Cami

FitSugar — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Every once in a while I like to splurge on myself and get a great new workout item as a reward for all my hard work. The Splits 59 Eve Cami ($60) fits the bill for the perfect reward.

The tank has a built-in bra, though I would wear a sports bra underneath to make sure your girls are supported. It's a super-soft spandex and nylon blend, and the mesh panel in back provides ideal ventilation. But the real reason I love this tank, and would pay $60 for it, is because of the drawstring blouson bottom. Our tummies are not always as flat as we'd like them to be — after all that's part of the reason we're at the gym, right? — and there is no need to suck anything in while wearing this shirt. The cami flatters your waist by being tighter on the top and looser around the waist. Let's just say it doesn't hug your belly in places you'd rather not be hugged. This tank acts as my go-to top on days when I've had a few too many bagel sandwiches because I still feel great in it.

Gear Review: Lotuspad Eco-Friendly Mat and Strap

FitSugar — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0700

If you're an avid yoga or Pilates girl, and you want a quality mat that's good for the earth and light on your purse then check out Lotuspad mats ($40). They're made of 100-percent biodegradable TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), and even though this mat is 5 millimeters thick, when it's all rolled up, it feels really lightweight so it's easy to carry. It resists bacterial and fungal growth and is reversible, so you can use both sides. They come in three colors: earth brown/forest green, fuchsia/lotus pink, and deep ocean blue/soft blue.

If that wasn't enough, they also make these adorable and unique mat straps. The part that wraps around your mat is made with adjustable velcro, so you'll get a snug fit to keep your mat from unraveling. Lotuspad is running a deal right now where you can get a mat and strap for $49. I have the turquoise and brown-dot strap, but click on the pictures below to see the other cheery choices.

To see the other straps

Gear Review: Old Navy Short Shorts

FitSugar — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:00:00 -0700

I'm always looking for bargains on workout wear. Recently I found this steal of a deal.
Check out these Old Navy Active Yoga Shorts ($12.50).They're perfect for running or biking in this Summer heat and you really can't beat that price. I love the wide pink band at the top, which sits right at the hips, comfortably, without digging into the belly. They're short, but not obscenely short (5.5 inch inseam), and the material is stretchy but very soft. I love that they're fitted but not tight, so when I'm moving, they stay put. I just may have to get another pair. Too bad they don't come in other colors.

Gear Review: Sports Bra for Less-Endowed Women

FitSugar — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:00:00 -0700

I've reviewed sports bras for the well-endowed ladies, but what about for those of us with a bit less va-va-voom?

I recently purchased the Lululemon Flow Y Bra II and I am in love with this top. This great little bra is the whole package. It provides good support, the mesh back insert provides maximum ventilation, and the racer back shape allows for full range of motion without irritation (i.e. no chafing). Not only did the bra pass the yoga test, it also passed the ultimate bounce test: running. The colors are super cute (mine is yellow with white polka dots) and it even comes with light removable padding, which keeps things discrete even when it's a tad "nippy" in the gym.

I've been wearing mine so much that I've gone back and bought a few more. At $42 it's a little steep, but a good sports bra can be hard to come by and this one is worth every single penny. Go try one on at a Lululemon store near you.

Gear Review: Victoria's Secret Crop Foldover Pants on Sale

FitSugar — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:00:00 -0700

I have found flattering workout capris that don't break the bank and I didn't really have to look too far. Check out these Crop Foldover Pants by Victoria Secret.

I love the wide, comfy waistband since I hate when tight elastic digs into my belly. These capris are made of a cotton/Lycra blend, which feels soft and lightweight. They're perfect for taking a yoga or Pilates mat class, working out at the gym, jogging around the neighborhood, or running errands post-workout. I wear the black on black, but they come in wide variety of brighter colors. If you can't decide which ones to get, that's OK because they're on sale — two pairs for $40. I just may have to order some more.

Gear Review: Express Basic Bra Cami

FitSugar — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:00:00 -0700

Since I practice yoga, Pilates, and strength training a lot, I need to have some comfy clothes on hand that allow me to move freely while feeling covered and supported. Sugar user chariander wanted to know where I get my long tops like the ones shown below. They're actually the Basic Bra Cami ($16.50) from Express.

I love this top because it has adjustable straps, a supportive shelf bra and the best part is that it's long, so when you're moving and stretching, you don't have to deal with your shirt popping up every five seconds. I also love that it keeps my cleavage covered, so when I'm bending forward, no one gets a sneak peek of my girls. They come in tons of bright colors and prints too. At a price this inexpensive, you can buy a bunch and wear a different one each day. You work out every day, right?

Gear Review: Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Water Bottle

FitSugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:00:00 -0700

I'm sure you've heard the bad news. Polycarbonate water bottles that contain the chemical Bisphenol A, like the ever popular ones made by Nalgene, are probably bad for you. Studies show that hard, clear plastics might possibly cause cancerous tumors, urinary tract problems, and early puberty. With news like that, you're probably in the market for a new, safer water bottle. Enter Klean Kanteen!

This Klean Kanteen water bottle ($16.95) is made of stainless steel (SIGG bottles are made of aluminum). It holds 27 ounces of water, is toxin free and can be cleaned in the dishwasher, which I love. The mouth of the bottle is wide enough to handle ice cubs, and the polypropylene screw cap is easy to grip and seals tight to prevent leakage. The bottle is skinny so I can slip it into my backpack easily or in the cage on my bike. If you are super outdoorsy, you can use a spare carabiner to attach the bottle to the outside of your backpack with the handy loop on the bottle lid.These are a little cheaper than SIGG bottles (a 20-oz. bottle is about $20), so if you're trying to save some dough, I'd definitely pick one of these up. You can buy one here.

Gear Review: North Face Apex Softshell

FitSugar — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:45:00 -0700

Since we're getting a hint of warm weather, I'm tempted to rip off all my heavy layers and run outside in shorts and a tank top. Unfortunately we're not quite there yet, so you'll need some thinner layers to keep you warm. That's why I love my North Face Apex Pneumatic Softshell ($99). It's a lightweight jacket that's stretchy so it has a feminine, flattering fit. I wear it for Spring runs, hiking, biking, and to and from the gym. I love that it's soft and fuzzy on the inside, but the outside is smooth so it stays clean and doesn't pill (like fleece jackets tend to). The two pockets are great for keeping my hands warm, or for carrying my keys, cell phone, and iPod. I wouldn't wear this on super cold and windy days, but if it's around 50° F, it's the perfect layer.

I have it in brown, but it comes in tons of other colors too. To see them, click the images below.

0 Comments 61 Views

0 Comments 1 Views

0 Comments 91 Views

0 Comments 31 Views

0 Comments 0 Views

0 Comments 31 Views

0 Comments 0 Views

Gear Review: Pearl Izumi Ultrasensor Bike Shorts

FitSugar — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:45:00 -0700

I decided it was time for a new pair of biking shorts. I received a pair as a gift from a biking enthusiast boyfriend, way back in my college days, but this time I was buying my own. After trying on a thousand pairs, and polling my biker-chick friends on their favorite brands, I went with the Peal Izumi Ultrasensor Shorts ($95). They may be a little pricey, but the investment in keeping my backside comfy is certainly worth it. More than the padding, which they amply provide, these shorts are designed to wick. The padding and the fabric of the shorts both promote evaporation. Plus, since we are talking technology, I should add that the chamois (aka padding) contains silver fibers to provide some antimicrobial action by reducing bacteria naturally.

Most importantly these bike shorts are comfortable and flattering. They have a little leg gripper action at the bottom seam so the shorts don't ride up, but the gripping elastic is comfortable and doesn't dig into your legs. Another key feature, these shorts are machine washable, which is always important in workout wear since you are hopefully going to do some serious sweating while wearing them.

You can find them here.

Source.

Gear Review: Champion Action Sports Bra

FitSugar — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 02:00:00 -0700

When Spring rolls around, I like to buy myself a new running outfit (complete with a sports bra), to get me excited about running outside. When I was shopping for my new bra, I had some criteria. I didn't want a racerback, since I'd be running outside and my back gets super sweaty (did someone say bacne?). I also wanted it to have a clasp closure in the back, since peeling a sweaty sports bra over my head after a workout is not the most pleasant thing. So I found what I was looking for in the Champion Action Comfort Sports Bra ($29.99).

Don't you love how it looks like a real bra? Don't be deceived though since this baby offers amazing support. It may not be the best bra if you have a DD bust and like to run, but it'll definitely keep your girls in place if you're jogging with an A or B cup size. If you've got a little bit more going on in the chest department, this is great to wear under a tank top that has a shelf bra attached. I liked that the straps were adjustable, although my favorite part about this bra is that it has two separate padded cups. That means it makes your boobs look more attractive instead of looking like one big smooshy mound. It also prevents the world from knowing that you're cold (if you know what I mean). If you're in the market for a new sports bra, I'd try this one out. It may be your new favorite.