Snug & Fitted | How To Pick The Right Sports Bra

I first wrote about the topic here but after a few years, it's time for a refresher as engineers have reinvented the bra since then. (Can I get an AMEN?!). However, 80% of women are still wearing the wrong size. 

Can you imagine feeling suffocated or having the urge to re-adjust a strap during kickboxing or hot yoga? No thank you. With that being said, make it a point this week, or sometime soon, to get measured at your favorite intimates or sports apparel shop. (Nike, Bloomingdales, and Lord & Taylor are only a few of the many that offer this service for free).

Wearing Brooks' Sureshot Racer Bra

With a marathon and a Classpass sponsorship under my belt, I was able to move and sweat in a variety of bras. There were a few standout favorites that aced all my needs with flying colors. 

Now some of you might be thinking, "but you basically have A cups." 

Kind of true, they're actually B cups. I've also made the mistake of heading to a race in a flimsy yoga bralette. My breast felt every single stride that took place during those 4 miles so much so that my hands ended up being my "sports bra". Yep. I ran a race while holding my breasts in place.

Wearing Brooks' Uprise Crossback Bra

But with that experience came knowledge and a few favorites which I'm always happy to share.

1. Sports bras do come in different styles and support, but the two main ones you'll encounter are compression bras and encapsulation bras. Compression bras are better for low-impact activities like yoga, spin, barre, etc. Bust out the encapsulation bras for high-impact activities like kickboxing, running, basketball, etc.

2. Sports bras are naturally tight but if you're having issues breathing correctly - it's too small for you.

Wearing Sweaty Betty's Resistance Workout Bra

3. Say no to the bounce! Try doing a few jumping jacks in the fitting room as your sports bra should keep any bounce at a minimum. If it's there and uncomfortable, you'll need a bra with extra support in the form of wider straps, racerback or "flexi wire".

4. Spillage means you're not fully supported. Try going up a size and to keep it contained for the best support.

5. Keep it fun when you can! Personally, cute gear always makes sweating a bit more fun.

Now go forth and crush those personal bests while with a supportive fit. AND, feel free to leave any of your favorite tips down below!

Wearing Nike's Classic Swoosh Bra

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

Shop my favorite sports bras below:

I'm a Classpass Ambassador!

You guys, I have some exciting news while overseas and I can finally let the cat out of the bag. I'm a Classpass Ambassador! To be honest, I almost didn't apply to the program because I didn't feel like I looked like a hardcore fitness girl. But sometimes you gotta ignore your self doubt and take a chance on things - besides, what's the worst thing that can happen?

So, there I was in Lebanon searching for a steady stream of wifi so I could take a chance and go all in. And I made the cut!

My Classpass obsession started last year and I dove head first into the plethora of classes throughout the city. One week I ventured into yoga, the next I fought wine-induced bloating at HIIT, when I felt too weak to run I hopped on a bike. It's been a lifesaver when it comes to reducing stress and toning up my desk-bod. And no, being an ambassador doesn't mean a free ride. I pay monthly for my membership because I honestly believe it has helped me live a healthier lifestyle. Also, their founder is a total #GIRLBOSS - with the help of her team she's been able to spread their program globally. Insane, right?

Next year I'm running the NYC Marathon (finally!) and my routine is going to heavy on the cardio & Classpass. For some weird reason I can run and run when outdoors but once I'm inside, in a gym, I lose all motivation to weight train or stretch. You would die if I told you how long it took me to finally cancel my unused membership at New York Sports Club. It still makes me cringe thinking about it. But now I know better. For instance, I generally do better in classes with peers and an instructor that guides me in a workout. 

There's actually a whole group of us kicking off the first Classpass Ambassador program and you can meet them all here and follow our adventures on social with #ClasspassAmbassador.

If you're a member, hit me up. I love finding new workout buddies. And if you're looking for a new fitness plan try out Classpass. I promise, it's so easy to do and there are so many different classes at all hours, you will definitely become obsessed.

Sign up here and get started with $10 off your membership (full disclosure I get $10 off my membership too but I indeed pay for my full membership).

Summer Into Fall Fitness Favorites

It's been a pretty long time (more than a year to be exact) since I rounded up my favorites when it comes to the fitness department. So what better time than the present to tally up what's been working for me throughout summer and will continue to make workout class a breeze come fall.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty let's get the gunk off our face and prevent clogged pores. I'm going to admit I've been trying A LOT of different face wipes but these from Dickinson's keeps my skin calm during breakouts or after an intense class. I've been doing a Retina-A treatment for my acne and this has reduced flare-ups for me which my skin appreciates.

At the top of my list were a few standout pieces from Lucy. I've ran multiple races (including the Brooklyn Half), sweated through bikram, and improved my bicep curls - all with pieces from this line. I've never worried about leggings being see-through or fabrics not wicking my sweat fast enough, instead I've been impressed with the fit and technology behind Lucy. If you're looking to start building out your fitness gear I highly recommend you start here even if you start small.
shown above: Hatha Shorts, Capri Leggings, Long Sleeve T, Strong is Beautiful Tank

To make sure my activewear lasts but without the funky smell I've been using Febreze In Wash Odor Eliminator. It really gets rid of the stink so confident enough to wear my clothes without a sniff check. In case you're wondering, my tops and bras get washed after every sweaty session. For pants, they can last about two wears (or two semi-sweaty classes) before needing a good Febreze Wash. The scent isn't overpowering either which I like.

What goes on my feet is equally important. As an active runner I tend to change my shoes every 6 months or if they start to give out. I've tried quite a few different brands and styles but Saucony's Guide are a repeat offender. The sneakers have enough bounce and arch support for my very flat feet. Let's not forget socks! They need love too. These from Bombas keep my feet blister free mile after mile. I don't feel too bad about keeping my sock drawer filled with these guys either; for every pair bought there's a pair donated.

Lastly, Sha-Glam is my go-to after my long runs & HIIT classes. It's really important to stretch and repair our muscles and this protein shake makes it really easy to do that. Now I need to get better about stretching. The drink is diary-free, soy-free, gluten-free and every single ingredient is GMO-free. It's not vegan but if you're looking for a vegan option I highly suggest DailyBurn.

Have any fall fitness faves or accomplishments you want to share? Let me know about it in the comments!