Truth be told, once I got to college, working out reached the bottom of my to-do list. After a long day of classes, an internship, and writing papers, getting on the treadmill was literally the last thing I wanted to do. Ultimately, laying in bed with a slice of pizza watching a Sex and the City marathon beat out going to the gym more times than I’d care to admit. I always found the gym boring, but this summer I committed myself to getting back in shape. I realized that while I find walking on the treadmill for an hour a total snoozefest, I absolutely love taking group classes. When I saw that my gym was offering a beginners yoga class I figured I would try it out.  To be honest I went in to that class thinking the whole thing would be “focus on your breathing, namaste” nonsense, but it turned out to be a challenging, yet somehow relaxing workout. Now I’m totally obsessed with yoga and have even gotten into other classes like zumba and spin. The best part about getting back into a fitness routine? Brand new workout clothes! Oh, yeah and you know, being healthy and fit is kinda cool too. When it comes to workout gear there are some things that you should invest in, while others can be found at bargain prices. Below I’ve compiled some save and splurge guidelines for workout gear!

Save: Sports Bras

Now, this might seem like a strange one to suggest saving on but hear me out. According to Women’s Health Magazine, most sports bras loose their supportiveness over time, and should be replaced every 6-12 months. So, while that super awesome sports bra that costs $50 might seem like a great buy at the moment, chances are you’ll have to toss it within the year. Personally I love Aerie’s Fit Racerback Bra for things like yoga and spin class. At $15 you can buy three of these for the price of one at other stores. If you’re participating in more high impact activities, Gap offers a great line of sports bras for just $24.99.

Splurge: Sneakers 

Lets face it: our feet put up with a lot. We shove them in 6 inch heels, we run to the subway in unsupportive flats, and sometimes we step on that hair clip we forgot to pick up off the floor. Since wearing worn out or unsupportive sneakers can cause injury, let us vow to give our feet a little more love. First, make sure you’re wearing the right shoe for the type of exercise your participating in. Since I’m certainly no doctor (blood = Rachel fainting) , I’ll let this article give you a little more explanation on that front. Don’t be shy to ask a sales assistant at whatever store you’re shopping in for some guidance. They’ll be more than happy to find you the right sneaker for your exercise routine. Nike has an excellent website that will help you narrow down the sneaker you need based on what kind of exercise your doing. Bonus: Nike has a feature that allows you to design your own custom shoe. Hot pink shoes anyone?!

Save: Workout Tops 

Since you’re probably going to want to buy quite a few workout tops, I would recommend keeping your eyes peeled for some budget friendly options. You can look just as stylish and comfortable in a $10 shirt as you would in a $50 shirt. This tank from Forever 21 is perfect for whatever you like doing at the gym and comes in adorable mint green and pink. At $12.80 you can get both colors without feeling the least bit guilty. Target also offers a wide variety of stylish workout gear at great prices. This top would be perfect for my weekly yoga class. Namaste y’all.

Splurge: Bottoms 

While some of your workout gear may be reserved solely for the gym, those yoga pants are guaranteed to make an appearance when you’re heading to the library or running errands. For that reason I would say go crazy and splurge a little on some cute and durable workout bottoms. I have to say I’m pretty obsessed with these capris from Alala. Not only would they be perfect for my workouts, but I wouldn’t think twice about wearing them outside of the gym. With the cute design and comfortable fit, these will definitely be your new go-to. Obviously we can’t forget our good friend the yoga pant. These yoga pants from Victoria’s Secret are a favorite of mine with the cute patterned fold over top. These pants are perfect to take you from the gym to a casual lunch with the girls.

So get out there and switch up your typical workout routine. You might just find a class or exercise that you never expected you’d love. What are your favorite exercise routines? What do like to wear when you’re working out? Any favorite stores to buy workout gear? Let me know!