Buggy Bootcamp recently had the pleasure of picking the brains of one of our friends and Australia’s leading gym wear manufacturers – Lululemon. Considering the brand designs their athletic gear mainly for women, who better to ask about how Mums can make the most of their workout wardrobe, and how to narrow down your search for comfortable, practical gym gear that lasts the test of time?
Jess Kirby, chief Lululemon advocate and Mum extraordinaire gave us her top tips for shopping for practical workout gear, specifically for pre/post pregnancy Mums and into early motherhood ~
~if you like it loose~
Jess recommends the Love tee, saying that V-necks are great for feeding but suggests opting for a darker colour to hide dreaded milk stains. Jess also gave a great big tick of approval to the Cardio squad tank, saying it is perfect for ‘side boob feeds’ when your baby is hungry.
Another favourite is the Bend and twist tank, which can be worn casually or to a non-sweaty class, because it is loose and easy to lift up for feeds or can be tied/tucked in.
Jess suggests that the Brunswick muscle tank is a popular ‘all rounder’ choice for those wanting to keep their workouts varied.
~On the Bottom~
One of Jess’s favourite items of clothing post-baby was the Align Pant/crop, which she says has a ‘naked sensation’, offering super soft material and crazy comfy fit, meaning it’ll feel like you are wearing nothing at all! LOVE!
For those wanting to find a pant that fits under the belly, Jess suggests opting for the Jet pant, which will give you a looser fit, and rides low, which is perfect for those nursing caesarean scars.
~if you like it tight~
A super popular choice among local mums, the High Times + Wunder Under High Rise Pant/Crop ‘makes everything feel hugged in’ Jess tells us. Jess liked the high, snug waist band which made her think of engaging her core, and gave awareness around the pelvic floor region.
Most of the Lululemon pants are high waisted now so you shouldn’t have a problem finding a style you like.
Another favourite among new mums wanting a little extra support is the All the right places crop – “they suck in the bum, thighs and tummy- wham bam, thank you mam!” says Jess!
~Bras~
Jess’s top pick in the bra section was the Flow Y + Free to Be because this style didn’t put too much pressure on her breasts but still offered good workout support – Jess suggests purchasing in a bigger size (or 2) if you are feeding.
Jess also highly recommended the Both Ways Bra, which she tells us is perfect for when you’re ready to get back to some exercise and need to keep your girls under control. This bra offers added support, will lock your breasts down and make you feel secure, and comes in a cross back or straight strap option.
~Extra Bits~
Water bottles are a must at all times – You’re constantly parched if you are breastfeeding and hydration is super-important, especially for those working out in the heat!
The Go Getter Bag – stores everything you could ever need with lots of internal pockets to keep organized and makes it easy to find your water, phone and keys, and an added bonus is that it also wipes down easy – great for the constant spills and sand pit collection that once was your beloved handbag.
Jess also shared a little bit of insider intel – the new Lululemon store at the renovated Warringah Mall is really taking people by surprise! For Mums struggling to find a particular item or size, customers can now utilise a nifty little in-house device that customers can order directly from and have items shipped right to your door. No more searching through racks when your ‘To-Do’ list is as long as your arm and bub is screaming the place down!
For further information on quality workout gear designed specifically for women, you can check out lululemon here.