best buys
The best gym and fitness gear from just £7
This page contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small amount of money if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. All our articles and reviews are written independently by the Netmums editorial team.
It's so hard to motivate yourself to get fit, especially if it's been a few weeks (or months!) since you were last active.
We all know the health benefits of exercise, as well as the immediate improvement to sleep quality and energy levels that it brings, yet it still feels like such a chore!
Having the right clothes to exercise in is vital, because it makes going out for a run, following a fitness DVD or heading down to the gym that bit easier.
And if you can't get to the gym, we've got some great buys for getting fit at home.
We've rounded up the best workout buys that'll leave you with no excuse not to be more active.
So, wave goodbye to ill-fitting leggings that ride up, unsupportive sports bras and having nowhere to store your phone and keys ...
1. Maternity Leggings, £18
*With bum sculpt seam detail and pocket
*Has mesh panels on both sides for storing essentials
*Available in sizes UK 6-20
These maternity full length leggings are great for all kinds of exercise. They have pockets, so you needn't worry about having to hold your keys, phone and card in your hands. They come in a variety of sizes from UK 6-20, so you can choose your best fit.
2. Active Bra, £16
*Fitted shape sports bra with cropped length
*Offers light support
*Made from soft, breathable material that keeps moisture away
This sports bra is a great option for active women who don't want to feel compressed or restricted by their activewear. The fitted shape allows you to easily twist and turn, while the front is still supportive enough for running and other sports.
It's available in a range of colours to suit your personal style, and sizes from UK 6-22.
3. Puma Women's Training Leggings, £9.99
*Power mesh internal waistband for additional tummy support and comfort
*Laser cut internal waistband pocket for storage that keeps your possessions secure
*Full length is perfect for runs in the cold
These basic sports leggings by Puma are all you need for exercising in all weathers. They might look plain, but are made from clever materials that keep your skin sweat and irritation-free, plus they have a secret pocket at the back for your phone, key or debit card.
Whether you're off to a spin class or starting training for that 10k, these leggings will serve you well.
4. NIKE Women's WMNS Revolution 5
*Super lightweight trainer for distance running and other workouts
*Available in a huge range of colours and styles to suit you
*Super comfy durable trainers that support the foot
These trainers are a great choice if you need a comfy running shoe. They can be used for all kinds of sports, and are so lightweight that it'll feel like you're wearing nothing at all. Whether you're hitting the treadmill or planning outdoor runs, these shoes by Nike will support your feet without giving you blisters.
They're available in sizes to fit a UK 2 up to 9.
5. Nike Women's Drill Top, from £26
*Long sleeved top that's ideal for exercising in the cold winter months
*Fabric helps you to stay dry even during sweaty workouts
*1/4 zip design with mock neck for custom ventilation
Gone are the summer months where you could go out for a run in cycling shorts and a baggy top! Winter calls for more serious workout gear, and this drill top by Nike is a versatile garment that will keep your temperature regulated. It has raglan sleeves that allow for a natural range of motion, and is made from special fabric that allows your skin to breathe and keeps you dry.
6. Yoga Tops (three-pack)
*Pack of three relaxed fit tops which are ideal for yoga or pilates
*Baggy fit that looks great layered over a sports bra or tank top
*Comfortable and allow for a full range of motion
Stock up on these baggy tank tops which are ideal for yoga, pilates or similar. They're thin but not see-through and look great when worn over a sports bra.
They're designed to be as comfortable as possible and allow you to move your arms freely. They're made from soft, breathable material that won't irritate your skin.
7. Adidas Training 3-stripe Co-ord, £37
*Sports bra with racerback for unrestricted movement
*Co-ordinating set that's designed for high-impact workouts
*Available in sizes XS up to XL
This gorgeous set, doesn't only look good on, but will also support you through your high-impact workouts!
The sports bra provides more support than most, but won't leave you feeling squashed or restrained and the leggings feature a figure-hugging cut that's snug and extra flattering.
8. Puma Quarter Socks
*Sports socks that feel lightweight and comfortable
*Made from 76% cotton, 19% polyester, 3% polyamide, 2% spandex
*Not too long or short and won't roll down as some 'invisible' trainer socks do
Good sports socks are a hugely important part of your workout kit that are all too often forgotten! These socks by Puma feature a thick elastic cuff which will keep them securely in place and the brushed soft material won't irritate your skin during long workouts. Definitely recommended!
9. Padded Cycling Shorts, from £9.46
*Cycling shorts with built-in padding so you can ride more comfortably
*Image shows shorts inside-out, padding is less visible when worn
*Padding is 2.2cm thick, so ideal for long cycles or spin classes
Cycling is such a great sport, especially for starting out with a new fitness routine – and you can save money on the commute to work, too! One thing that puts many women off is the discomfort associated with prolonged periods of cycling. These clever shorts come with a thick padded crotch which is designed to keep you comfortable and bruise-free, even after long cycles. So there you go, now there's no excuse to drive when you can cycle!
10. Women's 2-in-1 Running Shorts
*Running shorts with reflective straps on each side for extra safety in the dark
*Quick drying and breathable so ideal for wearing on long runs where you might sweat
*Features generous pockets to store small belongings securely
These double-layered high waisted sports shorts are both functional and stylish. The tighter underneath layer clings to your legs to keep them warm and provides control and comfort.
They're available in two colours and in sizes from S up to XL.
Read on:
- How to get fit without leaving the house
- The best pushchairs for jogging
- Clever cookbooks for healthy eating