Sweating it out is one of the best ways to feel good about yourself, inside and out. But who says exercising and staying in shape needs to be limited to repetitive and monotonous workouts in the gym?

From clothing that was seen as athlete-exclusive, to something your mom will wear on her busy days, and then finally a step further to something international celebrities will rock on the streets to show off their laid-back attitude, class, and healthy lifestyle. Activewear, or athleisure, is a trend that has been on the rise for quite some time now, and it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. We just can’t get enough of it. It’s comfort and style combined, it’s high fashion paired with practicality, so is it any wonder that we’re fully embracing this new direction?

This is the trend to follow right now, so let’s chat about how it was influenced, and what’s the most popular way to rock it today.

1. It Girls Sashy Down The Highstreet

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From the moment she became a Victoria’s Secret Angel, Gigi Hadid became a relentless gym-goer and healthy lifestyle supporter. We saw her in everything from sexy little purple training bra paired with faux leather leggings, to downright graceful and delicate black ballet leotard paired with a lush grey coat and a big handbag. With some comfy footwear and sassy sunglasses on, she’s giving us life every time we see her leaving the gym.

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Kendall Jenner doesn’t lag far behind her bestie either, and her look for the Milan Fashion Week this September was an incredibly successful mix of glamour and chic comfort. An oversized, shoulder-baring white sweater paired with an Adidas-like cropped pants? This girl is killing it with her fashion game. The perfect blend of slouchy and sleek gave her that cool vibe that we’re all longing for.

Take it from the A-lister ladies, this trend is the new version of effortless chic, and look at Gigi, Kendall, Selena Gomez, and even the Duchess of Cambridge for inspiration.

2. Queen Bey Comes To Rule The Gym

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Look, if Beyoncé is loving a trend, then we’re all for it. With her last year’s launch of Ivy Park clothing line and the idea that athleisure is there to celebrate every woman’s body, we’re seeing a significant spike in activewear movement. Pretty little crop tops, simple black and white prints, and giant hoodies are Bey’s go-to ideas for her own line, and we’re loving the casual, soft feel of everything.

Pair slim leggings and a baggy crop top, put on a colorful headband, and you’ll be looking as fierce as our queen.

3. Rihanna Slays It With Puma

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After her incredible success with Fenty Beauty, Rihanna seems to be fully embracing body-positivity, and activewear is definitely something that is meant to fit everyone. She paired up with Puma and the collection we’re seeing has this wonderfully retro feel that we’re absolutely loving at the moment. Velour tracksuits, varsity sweaters, turtleneck crop tops, and a bunch of biker shorts, French-cut racy swimsuits, scuba suits, and all of this in bright neon colors.

If you want crazy, if you want color, this is the thing for you, because it ties in fashion with fun, it’s bold, it’s unique, and definitely attention-grabbing.

4. How To Pull It Off Like A Celebrity

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Whether you’re a busy lady with a million things to do in a day, or just someone who loves their fashion to be both high-class and comfortable, activewear is probably one of the easiest things to pull off. You just have to let yourself go there, you have to embrace the slouchy, sexy feel of effortless beauty. Gigi Hadid’s combo of all-pink tracksuit and a coat is perfect for a feminine lady who wants some romance in her outfit, and we’re definitely seeing a trend of blue and orange peeking out on the runways for the next year’s season.

Don’t be afraid to make it all more fun though, that’s the greatest thing about this trend. You take something simple, comfy, and then you can feel free to go crazy and get a watercolor splatter print, or something with jungle motives. Ombre looks and geometric designs are also really in.

Embrace the relaxed ease of this trend, ladies! While you’re stocking up on some cute athleisure, why not renew your gym membership and really start enjoying the whole lifestyle?

Written by Sophia Smith

This season Virgin Active is treating our models to some goody bags making sure they remain in top shape. Virgin Active is a chain of Health Clubs, Gyms & Spas in South Africa, Namibia, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Australia, Singapore, Thailand and the United Kingdom.

Do You Know The Real Effects Of Your Exercise Regime On Your Skin?

Going to the gym may seem too hard work on its own, let alone thinking about what to wear while pumping iron.

More often than not, searching for that perfect gym gear that will provide good support, ensure you get a quality workout while NOT looking like something that got caught in the drain resembles a quest for the Holy Grail.

We all get super excited about the new year and our goal to get fit and healthy. We spend tons of money on fitness gear, clothes and gym memberships only to give it up come March.

So why not try something different to help you, keep it up!!

Kickstart your children’s confidence (if you have kids, if not your niece and nephews will do)

Do this by incorporating a physical activity into their everyday routine. It can be to play catch, dance while doing chores around the house, or a fun weekend activity like cycling or walks in the park. Exercise should be fun so turn it into a family activity rather than a chore.

Be Mindful

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment. Pick an activity where you normally zone out and try to stay focused and in the moment while doing it. This is not easy but, it will contribute to a happier state of mind.

Find Your Fitness

Instead of investing in an expensive gym membership, buy a skipping rope, you can pick it up anytime during the day and skip for about 20 minutes it works the whole body or try a HIIT workout. Find some great workouts on Tone It Up

Workout wear available @ www.newlook.com

Take The Right Vitamin Supplements

Instead of buying up the whole health store, focus on what your body really needs. A multivitamin will top you up your health-supporting nutrients that are lacking from your diet. Omega-3 will boost your immune system. You can incorporate this through eating fish such as salmon and tuna.

Healthier Snacks

Fill up during the day with fresh fruit and unsalted nuts.

Sleep

Not getting enough sleep is bad for your skin, mental wellbeing, weight and immune system. Try to sleep for at least seven to eight hours a night. Create a routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Also try to switch your phone off before bedtime.

Invest In A Juicer Or Blender

Saving on a gym membership means you can invest in a good blender or juicer for healthy juices and smoothies. Combine your favorite fruits or try kiwi, banana, spinach, cucumber, ginger and lime for a nutritious drink.

We all know that looking good takes work and to achieve that we need to work out to make our bodies to be better, faster and stronger. To obtain a healthy body and achieve the best during our work outs we also need to take care of our bodies. That means having the right tools, a balanced diet and adequate restorative time ensuring that we get the most of our workouts.

Look The Part

Did you know that your workout gear can have a direct impact on your health that is why slipping into a new pair trainers can immediately make you feel healthier before you even begin to break a sweat. Old, worn shoes are one of the most common causes of injury especially if you are a runner. Always consider your foot type, is it flat, neutral or high-arched, when buying your trainers. Also pick clothing that is slim-fitted and designed to absorb sweat making you more comfortable when you run or workout.

Track Your Progress

You can track your progress with a wide range of fitness apps that monitor your activity levels and advise on your diet.

Fuel Your Fitness

Make the most out of your fitness routine by giving your body the fuel it needs so drink 500ml of water to avoid dehydration an hour before an intense workout. It is also a good idea to fill your body up with slow burning carbohydrates, before your workout. Feeling low on energy before your workout, eat a date or a handful of raisins as they are fast-burning natural sugars that will give you a quick energy-boost.

Workout Boosting Supplement

We all know that a balanced diet is important when it comes to health and fitness, but supplements can give you the essential ingredients that you are lacking. If you’re athletic you want to include Vitamin B in your diet to help your body break down carbohydrates, whilst Vitamin C will help you metabolise them and protect your immune system. Vitamin D will assist your body to absorb calcium, promoting healthier bones.

Recharge Is Important

Your body needs to recover after intense exercise, so allow it adequate time to repair. Protect your muscles with a supplement that will increase your endurance and protects your cells. Fresh ginger in boiling water are a great natural remedy for aching muscles or try a spoon of turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory.

Before taking any supplements do speak to a health adviser for advice on which supplements are the best for you.