10 Thrifty Things: Budget Gym Gear for Her & Him

Looking good while getting in shape shouldn't break the bank. If you want to update your gym wardrobe but don't want to refinance your home in order to do it, check out these 10 performance-level (yet budget-priced!) gym gear selections for active men and women.

5 THRIFTY THINGS: WOMEN'S FITNESS

1. ASICS GEL-Express ® Cross trainers ($55, Sports Authority)
If your workouts often include running, walking, biking, and weight training, you might be tempted to buy the flashiest and most expensive running shoes. However, this isn't always necessary: a good pair of cross-trainers can be used across a variety of gym activities, giving you even more support than many running shoes. ASICS is a brand that can be found at mainstream sporting goods stores and is known for its durable products. These cross-training sneakers are no different. At $55, a steal for performance sneakers, they come with shock-absorbing technology that keeps the stress off your joints and the focus on your workout.

2. Women's Fold-Over Yoga Capris ($16.50, Old Navy)
Available in seven cute colors, these stretchy and comfortable capri-length yoga pants are sure to impress in the studio or on the walking trail. Instead of buying designer yoga clothes that cost a fortune (and are made out of very similar cotton and spandex blends), grab a few pairs of these workout pants for only $16.50. They're easily paired with tees or more fitted shirts, and can be found in petite and tall sizes as well!

3. Double Dry Women's Training Jacket ($13.99, Champion)
Our excitement about outside exercise like running, tennis, and golf is easily dampered by a cloudy sky or a chilly morning. With this super-cheap, super-cute jacket from Champion, we're left with less excuses! Not only will the extra layer keep you warm, its stretchy and silky material will wick away sweat and prevent the buildup of moisture in the fabric so you stay dry and comfortable. Pick it up in slimming black and feel more confident during your workout!

4. PhD Running Light Micro Sock by SmartWool® ($14, Athleta)
It never ceases to amaze how one little blister can cause so much discomfort: why, then, do we continue to suffer even after breaking in the running shoes? Beat the blisters with these lightweight high-performance socks from SmartWool. A favorite with hearty skiiers and trail bikers, SmartWool uses merino wool from New Zealand and crafts it into soft, moisture-wicking products that will keep your feet happy on the treadmill even if you're not. Choose the color that matches your sneaks and hit the trail.

5. Drawstring Active Tank ($24.50, Gap)
Let's face it - as women, we want to look our best all the time. That means that an old college T-shirt isn't always going to cut it when there's a chance of meeting a cute guy at kickboxing. With this adorable active tank from Gap, available in three colors to match your workout wardrobe, you'll look great even while working up a sweat. Plus, this shirt is not only great with a pair of yoga pants or running shorts, it’s absolutely acceptable to throw your jeans on and sport it in public while running post-workout errands.

5 THRIFTY THINGS: MEN'S FITNESS

1. Ventilated Compression Shorts ($29.99, Under Armour)
These shorts are great for lifting and other forms of exertion, and better yet, buying a pair won't break the bank. Compression shorts are a must when you want to feel, erm, secure while you're on the move. Combine their low price tag with Under Amour's renown quality, and you've got a win-win piece of gear for your next workout.

2. ASICS GEL-Maverick™ 3 Cross Trainers
($50.00, Sports Authority)
If you're into basic cardio and running then these ASICS sneakers are a great find at just $50. Gel comfort inside supports your heels, and durable rubber outside provides durability, making these cross trainers perfect for biking, hiking, or distance running — even on the treadmill. ASICS is a respected brand readily available at most sporting goods stores, so these are sneaks you can trust. What's even more? They're totally affordable, which is a rare find in the workout world!

3. Easton E-Pro Interchangeable Sunglasses ($34.99, Foot Locker)
Perfect whether you're going for a midday run or playing in a softball game with friends, these stylish shades have a soft rubber nose and ear pieces, allowing them to stay on your head but still be comfortable. As a bonus, they also come with interchangable lenses so you can alter them depending on the amount of sun. For just $35, these puppies are exactly what you need to protect your eyes and wallet this summer.

4. Tek Gear Performance Compression Tee ($22, Kohl's)
Any workout is amplified by a performance tee that not only compresses your muscles, keeping them warm, but also wicks away that pesky moisture. Any bank account is bolstered when you can get one for $22 (plus they're buy one get one free!) at Kohls.com. The fabric of this tee is also odor resistant, and since it repels water, you won't be afraid to really work up a sweat at the gym.

5. Headsweats Go Hat ($21.95, SwimOutlet.com)
These hats are a go-to if you're a guy who wants both form and function from your headwear. This hat has a built-in sweatband so you can protect your eyes from the sun while keeping the inevitable stream of sweat at bay. At barely $22, they're affordable enough to grab 'em in a couple of different colors. Less laundry = more log time at the tennis courts.

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