Want a Discount on a Quality Sports Bra?

Influenster sent me the C9 sports bra from Target free to review. Let me describe the product a little so you get a sense for what it is like. It is made of a thick compression fabric and has no padding. So when I first saw it, I was thinking I would not like it since I'm kind of on the smaller bust size scale. Also, they were pink and so that probably skewed my opinion on the negative side.

Investing in Gym Equipment

When you first start working out, it is challenging to know what to wear, what works for your body, and what tools to use. In fact, it could get a tad overwhelming, especially in the age of the internet where there are 'quick solutions'. But I like to keep things simple, so here are a few tips to remember if you are trying to decide what you need:

Victoria's Secret Sports Bra Review

I love sports bras. I have them in various colors and feels. I am not a big girl up there so finding a sports bra that holds the girls down is not so difficult. However, what I have trouble with is finding one that looks good, actually fits (not fits one boob and feels loose on the other), stays in place during high impact workouts, and makes me feel great. I have a few that I honestly just reserve for when my cute ones are in the wash.

So Influenster, in partnership with Victoria's Secret, sent me the "Victoria's Secret Incredible" sports bra  for testing purposes to write this review for you folks. I didn't expect to, but I quite liked it. 

What are Your Must-Have Travel Fitness Items?

Whether you work out in hotel gyms or you try outdoorsy exercises in new cities, it is important to plan your exercise routine before you travel, and be prepared for the unexpected. I remember waking up in a hotel once and going down to the fitness center, only to find out that there had been an issue with water the night before. Because of the carpet and possible mold I guess, no one was allowed in there for the rest of the day. I was pretty glad I had an alternate plan.

Here are my top must-have travel items:

• Sneakers/Trainers: Of course this is the most important of the bunch. I know some workouts don't require sneakers (like yoga), but most do. So even if I plan to do yoga, I still take my sneakers.

• Exercise Video: Even if I am in a spot with a gym, anything could go wrong. Sometimes, I take a couple: one for cardio and one for strength training. 

• MP3 Player: Runners need music, and so my iPod and arm band are absolute necessities in my life. They go with me on every trip.

• Sports Wear: Do not ever ever underestimate the power of your workout clothes. I learned the hard way when I went on a half marathon trip and forgot my sports bra. I couldn't buy another one because the race started at 6am. Needless to say, the bruises on my chest helped me realize that a regular bra is NEVER to be worn to exercise.

• Nike+iPod Sensor: You all know about my love for the Nike+iPod app and sensor. If you are a runner, this is a great tool to help measure your distance, your time, and calories burned. It's such a small device that I take it with me on every trip.

Optionals:

• Jump rope: When I have room, I take my jump rope as well because it is an easy and fun way to burn some calories. However, I do have a jump rope that has 3 pound weights on the ends of it, so I only carry it when I can afford the extra pounds.

• Yoga mat: When I go on longer trips, I like to take my mat to stretch, do floor exercises, and maybe do some yoga. However, this takes up some room in a suitcase (and you need a big suitcase), so it all depends on how much room I have.

What are your travel exercise must-haves?

Cheers Eights & Weights!

Photo credit: Essence.com