Feel Good and Look Great During Workous

Buying new fitness clothing can be just as difficult as buying a new swim suit. In fact, sometimes it can be worse. Some brands seem to cater only to women who are super thin. Of course, their designs look great on skinny, hard plastic mannequins on the showroom floor, but it's often another story when you take the items into the dressing room.

Many of the big brands (Nike, Adidas, lululemon, Champion, etc) now sell workout clothes in a wide range of sizes. But there are some lesser known brands that make impressive styles as well. These brands sell capris, shorts, tanks and tops designed specifically for women with curves and muscles. 

• Lorna Jane. If you're an American consumer, this workout clothing brand may not be familiar, but it is one of the top fitness clothing brands in Australia. That fact won't surprise you when you see their workout clothes. Lorna Jane's signature Amy tight is designed with the company's exclusive "Nothing 2 See Here" fabric so that you don't have to worry about showing too much when you're down-dogging in front of a stranger. The tights also have a higher waist band for added support. Amy comes in sizes from XXS to XL (representatives for the brand encourage women to size down when they shop for leggings). You'll also find plenty of tops, jackets, hoodies, and even maternity workout gear.
• Brooks. This brand, known for its running shoes, also makes fitness apparel in a range of sizes to fit a variety of body types. If you like the graphic prints and bright colors you see in many trendy stores, you'll find them on workout capris by Brooks. Sizes range from XS to XXL. Sports bras come in designs for high impact, medium impact, and low impact activities and offer all levels of support. Many of the bras are sold by cup size so that you can get the fit you need. There is even a trial run guarantee. You can wear the gear and if you are not happy with it after 90 days you can still return it for a refund. 

In addition to the brands listed above, there are a few companies that excel at making sports bras that fit women who need extra support.

• Sportee Sports Bra. This training top made by Shapeez minimizes bounce during workouts and also has a design that minimizes back fat. And if you hate the dreaded uni-boob look, you'll love the Sportee. It is designed with individual shaped cups (and comes in cup sizes) so that you look your best in the gym or during your outdoor workout.
• Shefit Ultimate Sports Bra If your girls need some extra support, make this your go-to brand for sports bras. The design allows you to customize the wide bust band so you get a comfy fit and the shoulder straps adjust in the front for convenience. While the bra comes in sizes ranging from XS to 6L, this level of support will be especially appreciated by women with a larger bust. 
• Nayali. This brand (named for feminine courage) makes activewear focused on women with a fuller bust (D cup to G cup). You won't have to worry about side boob, under boob, digging straps or wearing double bras. Nayali bras come in a range of styles and colors. The brand also makes swimwear and active streetwear.

• Active Ego. Whether you're looking for a stylish hoodie, workout capris, or a fun poncho for a day on the beach, Active Ego has you covered. This fun gear comes in sizes ranging from 1X to 4X so you don't have to worry about fit. And not only does Active Ego cater to plus size women, their leggings have a panel that "sucks it in" so you don't have to. Buy the brand online or at Neiman Marcus.
• Nuu-Muu. It might seem odd to think about working out in a dress, but once you see the active apparel at Nuu Muu, you'll see why it makes sense, especially for larger bodies. In fact, the company's goal is to inspire women of all sizes to "love themselves into action." Their exercise dresses can be worn alone or with tights for workouts or for comfy daily activities. Some are even designed with smartly placed pockets for keys, ID and credit cards. The dresses come in sizes Small to 3 XL to accommodate a range of body types. Dresses are even made for girls. 
• Flexi Lexi.  If you don't feel comfortable in form-fitting capris or workout leggings, consider a stylish alternative by Flexi Lexi. The brand makes harem pants and palazzo pants that are both comfy and cool to work out in. You'll find a wide range of colors to go with every bra top or tank ...and Flexi Lexi makes those, too.

Your footwear can easily make or break a workout. Sore feet will derail even the best intentions in the weight room or on the cardio floor floor. Most big brands sell shoes in medium widths and standard styles. But sometimes women with bigger bodies need shoes with more cushioning, arch support and a bigger toe box. These brands offer unique designs that may work better for your feet.

Hoka One One. Hoka has become a popular brand among runners because of their comfy, fast, light shoes. Hoka shoes have a cushioned midsole, and meta rocker technology that propel your foot forward during runs and other fitness activities. Hoka also offers a Time to Fly 30-Day guarantee, so if you're nervous about trying a new design, you have the option of returning them for a refund.

Altra. Altra shoes have a unique design that may look odd if you're used to buying shoes with a narrow tapered toe box. Altra shoes have a toe box that is shaped like the top of your foot so your toes have room to move naturally. In addition, the shoes have a Zero Drop platform and cushioning to keep your feet healthy on the road. Altra is also the first shoe company to introduce an entire line of truly female-specific shoes.

Vionic. Whether you are looking for shoes for a night on the town or for shoes to take to the gym, Vionic has you covered. The company's Orthaheel technology helps promote alignment
from the ground up and you'll find it in all of their shoes—even their slippers. If you suffer from sore feet from running workouts, walking sessions, or just standing on your feet all day, check out Vionic's line-up of styles to suit every occasion.

You'll find most of these brands in stores and also online. In addition to those listed, be sure to check out workout shoes in width sizes from Brooks, Ryka, and Asics as well. If you're not sure what size to buy, head to your locally owned running or walking store and have a professional measure your foot. Taking the extra time to buy the right shoes, and the best workout gear will help keep you motivated to stay active and stay fit.