My #WorkItOut Essentials

Leggings, tank & sports bra c/o Forever 21

As you guys might know, I’m currently recovering from a back sprain—while some people might think that involves a lot of bed rest, other than the first period when you’re getting over spasms, it’s actually more important than ever to get lightly active and make sure you’re restrengthening the muscles that support those hardworking (and in my case, apparently abused!) back muscles in a strategic and proactive way. I’m so excited to be getting back into the swing of things with Forever 21 to #WorkItOut the smart and stylish way. Of course, having a killer workout and staying strong is so much about prep, and when you work out as much as I do you need a solid arsenal of workout gear, post-gym fuel and more! Click through to discover all of my essentials after the jump!

First of all, I can’t stress enough that having stylish workout gear really and truly helps my workouts. Especially when I’m in a bit of a compromised physical state like I am currently and don’t want to do much of anything, having something that I feel stylish and confident in gets me out the door and to my physiotherapist, Pilates studio or gym to start hitting my rehab goals. I basically want the whole current Forever 21 activewear line (think pops of blue, hits of neon yellow and awesome prints that look killer in or out of the sweat session) but especially because I kind of need it right now, I had to go for both the tank and leggings that send me the best kind of reminders to move and commit to my fitness, plus I’m obsessed with the unique details on both (the cut on the tank and the print of the leggings—love!). This sports bra has the cutest detailing in the back while still offering the right support for the low-impact workouts I’m currently hitting in my active recovery. And can we please talk about this yoga mat? Such a welcome pop of colour in a sea of black mats!

Even if I’m not working up much of a sweat, I always pack some quick refreshers to feel pulled together and fresh after my sessions. Some makeup wipes, natural deodorant and quick beauty touch-ups or all I need to feel somewhat “done” afterwards. I also am prone to low blood sugar spells (also known as getting majorly hangry) so always make sure I have something healthy with a good blend of protein and carbs (especially important while I’m healing) and lots of water to stay hydrated.

Of course, ear buds are always a must (especially when I’m hitting the high-impact workouts I’m missing so desperately right now and listening to hard-hitting faves like Ty Segall, The Orwells or Bass Drum of Death), but I’ve been switching over to something gentler like Lisa Hannigan for the more mind-body connection style movements I’m doing lately to stay more present and calm.

I’m going to be sharing my #WorkItOut journey with Forever 21 over the next few weeks here and on social media so please, do the same on your social channels! Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner training for your next big race, just getting into fitness now or recovering from an injury like me, let’s get talking and share how we’re hitting our goals in style!

A big thank you to Forever 21 for partnering with me for this post.