Let’s face it – sometimes workout ruts happen. From average folks to fitness professionals, no one is immune to these periods of feeling unmotivated. Want to get moving again but don’t know where to start? It can be much simpler than it seems. One fun way to motivate yourself is to stock up on workout apparel that makes you feel confident and strong. There is no doubt that you’ll rock your workouts with the boost that comes from bright, colorful gear. Try lifting your spirits with some of the awesome activewear lines below.

Target C9 Collection: This is my go-to brand for fun, affordable leggings and tanks. It’s also incredibly convenient to be able to grab some new gear while I’m shopping for everyday supplies. Two birds. One store.

Fabletics: This brand is a top choice for people who want to effortlessly update their workout wardrobe. Fabletics is a subscription service that will send you new fitness apparel every few weeks. Monthly motivation? Count me in.

Adidas Stella McCartney Collection: If you’re able to invest in some designer pieces, you should start here. This fashion forward collection from Adidas and Stella McCartney is sure to turn some heads.

Onzie: This brand specializes in unique yoga apparel, but you could rock these pieces for a multitude of different workouts. The patterned leggings look like the perfect blend of fashion and function.

Victoria’s Secret Sport: Activewear probably isn’t the first thing you think of when you hear Victoria’s Secret, but it is definitely worth checking out. If you’re looking for the perfect sports bra, the staff will make sure you find the one that fits you best.

While colorful workout clothing can be fun to look at, the most important aspect is how it makes you feel when you put it on. My best tip is to rock whatever gear makes you feel most comfortable. Do you have a piece of workout clothing that makes you feel like a million bucks? Tell us about it in the comments below!

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Spring is in full swing, but have you really celebrated it yet? Change is always exciting, so what better time is there to switch up your routine? If you’ve been stuck indoors on the treadmill, hit the outdoor track. If you’re tired of bundling up in order to brave the cold, ditch some layers and get moving. Making small changes in your daily life may just give you the boost you need to finally reach a new goal. If you’re still in need of some springtime fitness inspiration, look no further. I’ve rounded up my current fitness essentials. Check them out below!

Sweat Inducing Workouts

I’m digging bodyweight-only workouts right now because you can complete them in any place at any time. From the backyard to the beach, wherever you are is the perfect place to complete them.

1. Total Body Strength Tabata from Life In Leggings
2. Cardio Blast Workout from Physical Kitchness
3. Boredom Blaster Workout from Creating a Better Tomorrow

Confidence Boosting Clothing

Two things draw me to activewear: great prints and flattering fits. The following pieces are definitely right on target and also happen to be affordable without sacrificing quality.

1. Space Dye Tank from Holloway Sportswear
2. Donut Delight Leggings from Emily Hsu Designs
3. Mercury Sports Bra from Lorna Jane

Energy Enhancing Snacks

It takes a delicious, hearty snack to motivate me before a tough workout. I try to make sure I get enough carbs and protein every day, and the following snacks are the perfect combination of the two.

1. Snack on the Run! Kits from Bumble Bee
2. Chocolate Almond Overnight Oatmeal from The Healthy Maven
3. Maple Spiced Nuts from Health.com

I hope some of my new fitness favorites inspire you to make the most of your spring! If you have any tips you’d like to share, leave a comment below.

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How would you describe yourself and your blog?

My blog TheFitCookie.com is all about health, fitness, and allergy-friendly recipes. I am a personal trainer and group fitness instructor part time, so blogging is my other part time job that I really enjoy! My kids and I have multiple food allergies and sensitivities, so the cooking gets interesting in our house! I started my blog as a way to share my allergy-friendly recipes with people. I started a second website for fitness and wanted to keep them separate, but decided to merge them into one site earlier this year.

As an athlete, I love variety! I want to try lots of things and I don’t stick to just one form of exercise. I do PiYo, yoga, weight lifting, Zumba, running, metabolic conditioning/bootcamp, rock climbing, biking, and hiking. Variety is the spice of life and I want to be good at LOTS of things!

I don’t fit into a category with fitness but I like it that way. I have done a triathlon, lots of 5Ks, a mud run, an adventure/scavenger race, and 50-mile charity bike rides. I want to run a half-marathon next year, and participate in another triathlon and beat my time. It’s all good stuff! It’s great to work your muscles and your mind in different ways, so things don’t get boring.

The same principle applies to my diet and recipes. I don’t really fit into a formal “diet”. I’m not paleo but I have cut back my grains and I eat a lot of meat. I’m not vegan but most of the recipes for my baked goodies are vegan since I can’t eat eggs and dairy. I’m following a mostly low-FODMAP diet but still enjoy avocados and pit fruits. I find what works for me and go from there! Labels just make us feel guilty when we don’t stick to the “diet”, so I encourage people to find what works for them.

How did you get started?

I started getting serious about working out when I started college. I knew I needed to make a commitment to exercising but I was getting tired of doing DVD workouts at home. I joined a gym with my student discount and started to take group fitness classes to learn some things about fitness and I haven’t looked back! I eventually became certified to teach Zumba and taught for 5 years (it’s fun!!) and I became certified as a personal trainer a couple years after that.

Never stop learning and making new goals! I’m working on a running certification and I want to get yoga certified next year.

What is your best training tip?

Don’t be afraid to take days off and relax when you need them. One of my favorite ways to spend an active rest day is to go for a hike or a drive up to the mountains. I love it! The change of scenery and the fresh air does wonders.

What keeps you motivated?

How good I feel when I move. Exercise isn’t just physical; it’s mental too. I have struggled with depression off and on and I feel better mentally when I exercise, even if it’s something short. Those benefits are more noticeable when I can exercise outside and get some sunshine and fresh air!

When I exercise and race, I feel good about what I have accomplished and what I am capable of. Seeing progress in my strength, race times, or distances is encouraging to me and motivates me to set new goals.

What advice would you give someone who is just starting on his or her fitness journey?

Don’t compare yourself to other people. Focus on YOUR journey. It’s great to have others to motivate you, but people get too caught up in looking at what others are talented at and what others have that they forget that fitness is a very individual and personal thing. You have to find what works for you and what you enjoy regardless of what everyone around you is doing. Stretching outside your comfort zone is good, but don’t forget that your exercise is YOURS, not someone else’s and it has to mean something to you if you want to make it long term.

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When it comes to remaining active on vacation, the options are limitless. One of my favorite ways to ensure that I get moving is to try to find a race that takes place during my stay. It’s a fun way to take in the sights while working up a sweat. I’ve even taken it a step further and planned entire vacations around a particular running event. To me, blending a race weekend with a vacation is the perfect way to stay in shape while on the road. If you’re ready for a race-cation of your own, you can find them all over the country. From fun and fast to totally daunting, there is definitely a race out there for everyone.

7-Mile Bridge Run
This annual race is held in the Florida Keys by the Marathon Runners Club to raise money for youth activities in the area. The main draw of this race is clearly the scenery. It takes place entirely over water and offers views that cannot be beat. It may just be the best 6.8 miles of your life. Yes, the course is a little shorter than the name suggests, but that doesn’t stop people from running it year after year.

Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half
While this race boasts a great course, it is definitely more famous for its after party. The final mile takes runners straight to City Hall, where the post-race celebration just so happens to be the Wine & Music Festival. The festival includes massage tents, wine-tasting booths, great food, and live music. Can you think of a better ending to a race?

Kauai Marathon
If you’re looking for an all-around amazing experience, stop what you are doing and sign up right now. From the pre-race Hawaiian prayer to the beautiful scenery from start to finish, this race is steeped in local culture. The best part may just be celebrating your finish relaxing on the beach, though. After all, you’ll be in beautiful Hawaii!

Moab 5K Adventure Run
For those of us not exactly ready for a marathon or half in the desert, there is the adventure run option. Throughout the race, you’ll run through natural and manmade obstacles, including arches, caves, creeks, culverts, sand pits, a rock maze, an obstacle course, and so much more.

Blue Ridge Marathon
If you’re ready for a real challenge, look no further. Billed as the “toughest” road marathon in the country, this race is not for those wanting to take it easy on vacation. Starting and ending in Roanoke, the marathon includes three intense climbs and descents. Runners agree that the effort is worth it, due in large part to the bragging rights you’ll walk away with after the finish.

Have any races to add to the list? Leave a comment below!

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I say this all the time, but one of my favorite pieces of gym equipment is a simple pair of dumbbells. It’s easy to forget that when it comes to fitness, you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg to work your arms and legs. Sometimes, simple really is better. In the case of dumbbells, it is certainly true. That being said, I do think it’s worth having options. I have one light pair, one heavy pair, and one pair that clocks in right in the middle. For my current fitness levels, I’m using 3, 8, and 15 pound dumbbells. The lightest pair is great for isometric triceps or shoulder moves, and the heaviest pair is perfect for working my biceps. One of my go-to dumbbell workouts using my mid-weight pair is a total body dumbbell circuit that incorporates combination moves. By working multiple muscles and using the same pair of dumbbells throughout the circuit, I’m able to get my workout done in record time.

If combination moves aren’t your thing, I’ve rounded up five other dumbbell workouts that you’re sure to love:

15-Minute Core Workout from Pumps & Iron
Dumbbells are great for more than just bicep curls. This workout, that only takes fifteen minutes, works your entire core and is way more exciting than basic crunches.

Quick Sexy Arm Workout from Redbook Mag
This workout includes eleven quick, efficient moves to get your upper body looking its best. From Speed Bags to Kickbacks, you’ll find plenty of fun and interesting moves to add to your routine.

Sexy Arms Dumbbell Circuit from Fit Foodie Finds
If you need a little cardio to spice up your weightlifting routine, you’re in luck. This circuit combines awesome dumbbell moves with cardio HIIT to get you beach ready in no time.

At Home Dumbbell Workout from Stay Fit Mom
Are you counting down to your due date but still want to squeeze in a few workouts? This at-home workout can be completed throughout your pregnancy, as long as you have clearance from your doctor. 

21-Day Arm Challenge from Popsugar
Ready for more of a commitment? This printable, twenty-one day arm challenge is the perfect prep for spring tank tops and bathing suits. Why wait? You’re less than a month away from sleek, strong arms.

Have a favorite dumbbell workout? Leave it below in the comments!

The post Dumbbell Workout Roundup appeared first on Bumble Bee.

Go Thrift Shopping

I have found countless fitness products at thrift stores. From workout DVDs to an elliptical, you can find some great deals if you’re willing to dig around a bit. Often times, they just need a little bit of cleaning up to be as good as new.

Improvise

Not ready to purchase any weights? That’s totally fine. You’d be surprised at how many items you can use around the house. Water bottles and canned goods make pretty good light hand weights, and kitchen chairs are amazingly versatile!

Stream Workouts

Group workout classes at the gym can be expensive. Luckily, you can find almost anything online. Fitness Blender is a popular choice for free full-length bodyweight workouts, but a quick Google search will provide you with even more options.

Be Social

Social media can be a little overwhelming, but you just have to know how to sift through the junk. If you follow quality fitness accounts, you’ll find new workouts, fitness tips, and healthy recipes every single day.

Join a Running Club

Interested in running but need a little motivation? Many local running clubs will be free, although some will have a small fee for specific training groups. For the most part, though, the large group runs won’t lighten your pockets at all.

Race Locally

If you end up with the itch to race, do so in your hometown. Local races tend to be much, much cheaper. There tends to be a little less course support, but the enthusiasm of the people organizing the races more than makes up for it.

Buy in Bulk

If you’re looking to clean up your diet, learn to shop in bulk. Grains are readily available in larger quantities, but you should also be on the lookout for frozen fruit and vegetables sold in larger quantities. When it comes to saving money, the freezer is your friend!

Make an Investment

If you do spend money, do so wisely. Some investment pieces are worth it, but you are the only one who can truly decide where to save and where to spend. For some tips on building a home gym, read this post.

Have any tips to add? Leave them in the comments!

The post Budget Fitness Tips appeared first on Bumble Bee.

While this is a “for time” workout, don’t sacrifice form for speed. Make sure to engage your muscles throughout each repetition and slow down if you need to at any time.

Want more themed workout options? Check out the list below for options from dancing to dead lifts.

St. Patrick’s Day Workout from Bombshell Bootcamp

St. Patrick’s Day Fitness Challenge from Self Magazine

Exercise Like The Irish from CNN

St. Patrick’s Day Beer Belly Routine from Sarah Fit

St. Patrick’s Day Acrostic Workout  from Fitness and Feta

If you’re in need of some motivation to power you through, you should check out this St. Patrick’s Day workout playlist full of fun Irish tunes.  Comment below with how you plan on getting active this March!

The post St. Patrick’s Day Workout appeared first on Bumble Bee.

What is your favorite part about Primal Fitness?

It’s a crazy intense workout, but always SO MUCH FUN! The classes are an hour-long full body workout and the time flies by. It’s a workout where you are only using your own bodyweight or a tire. I attend Primal Fitness classes at Amenzone.

How did you get started?

About two years ago, I went to a free workout at a nearby Lululemon that was put on by Amenzone Fitness. After that workout, I was hooked!

How many Primal Classes have you taken?

A LOT! I’m honestly not sure, but I’ve definitely gone to my fair share of classes. I try to go at least twice a week.

How long have you been going to Amenzone?

Two years.

What is your favorite primal workout?

I love the tire slams! They make me feel really strong, and it’s a great after-work stress reliever to slam those tires down as hard as you can.

What is your best training tip?

Listen to your body. If you’re overdoing it, definitely take a step back and give your body the rest it needs!

What keeps you motivated?

I love group classes because my classmates can hold me accountable when I don’t show up.

What advice would you give someone who is just starting on his or her fitness journey?

Just get out there and move! Do what feels good. Living fit is a lifestyle and will take time, so try to be patient and take baby steps to living a healthier lifestyle.

The post Athlete Spotlight – Natalie Bernacchi appeared first on Bumble Bee.

The only issue is that heading to the gym to complete the same old workouts week after week becomes totally mind numbing. To prevent myself from going crazy while working out, I’ve enlisted the help of some of my favorite bloggers. Below you’ll find five of their favorite lower body workouts, so you can continue to be excited about working those legs.

Killer Leg Day Workout

Do you love running and lifting? Try this workout from “He and She Eat Clean” that combines the two for one amazing sweat session. Finish this workout with a plank challenge and you’ll be feeling stronger than ever in no time at all.

Lower Body Burnout

This burnout workout from “Pancake Warriors” adds a healthy dose of cardio to your lower body routine. Circuits are a great way to add a little spice to your otherwise predictable gym schedule. I’m definitely giving this one a try soon!

Hip & Glute Exercises for Runners

It’s no secret that runners need a strong foundation to stay healthy while logging all of those miles. Head over to “Love Life Surf” to find moves for your hips and glutes that will keep you feeling your best before each and every run.

Booty Building Workout

Want a better booty? “The Fit Blog” will show you how to build it with tough and efficient lower body workouts. They stress that a combination of proper nutrition and hard work will get you exactly where you want to be.

Fun Leg Workout

This workout, by “Food Faith Fitness”, claims to be a weighted lower body workout that you’ll actually enjoy. It includes deadlifts, two squat variations, leg curls, and calf raises. She also recommends adding your favorite core exercise at the end of the workout. If it were up to me, I’d hit up my lower abs and back.

Have a favorite lower body workout? Leave it below in the comments!

The post Lower Body Workouts appeared first on Bumble Bee.

Below are five tips to keep in mind this year as you work towards your fitness goals.

1. Revisit Your Resolutions. Are they realistic? It can be easy to spread yourself too thin when it comes to yearly resolutions. Don’t set yourself up for failure! Choose one or two goals you’d like to accomplish this year and put the rest on the backburner. Often times, you’ll see that by achieving one goal, other aspects of your life seem to fall into place anyway.

2. Divide and Conquer. You know what you want to achieve. The next step is to set mini-goals that will get you there. Rome wasn’t built in a day, right? As with anything else, you need to take it step-by-step and day-by-day. A simple way to do this is to take a year-end goal and divide it into monthly sub-goals.

3. Make an Announcement. So you’ve set your goals. Now what? Shout them to the world! It’s much more likely that you’ll stick if out if you have people cheering you on. Building a support system in advance is a sure-fire way to keep you in it for the long haul. And, as a bonus, you may inspire someone else in the process.

4. Expect Delays. The most important thing to remember is that life happens. There will be setbacks from time to time, but you’ll be fine as long as you keep your end-goal in mind. One bad day, week, or month is not the end of the world. Just get up, brush yourself off, and move on.

5. Celebrate Small Wins. Don’t be afraid to get excited over the small stuff. That is how you keep your momentum going. Lose a pound? Shave a few seconds off of your 5k best? Baby steps are still steps. Celebrate them! A fun way to do this is to create a “brag book”. Write down every positive moment, because those are what get you through the tough ones.

Now, about that whole announcement thing– why not use us as your sounding board? Comment with your 2016 goals – we’re all ears!

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