As a long time fan of both J.Crew and New Balance, it's always exciting to see what the two brands can come up with when working together. Their recent collaborations on sneakers have been nothing short of stylish. However, on February 1st (yes about a month ago), J.Crew released it's first activewear collection for both men and women.
You might think, oh - what's J.Crew doing in activewear? Well, you'd be surprised at how simple and comfortable their pieces are. They've taken the casual refined elements from their brand and carried it forward to into this collection. You'll also notice New Balance details here and there, such as the reflective features and subtle logos. The stylish mix of New Balance silhouettes and technical fabrics with J.Crew’s unique colours and prints really make the pieces stand out.
[caption id="attachment_2941" align="alignleft" width="665"] There is a much larger selection you can see on www.jcrew.com[/caption]It took me a little while to write this up since I wanted to try out the pieces for myself and compare them to some of my favorite pieces from other brands, such as lululemon. The pieces are very lightweight, breathable and are not constricting. I found myself being able to forget what I was wearing and simply focus on the exercises at hand. Beyond that, the garments are a little flattering too!
The performance-ready collection is available online at www.jcrew.com and at select J.Crew stores (Yorkdale Shopping Centre and Toronto Eaton Centre).
Below I've included a quick bonus full-body workout routine that I use when short on time. Feel free to modify as you please.
Full-body Circuit
This circuit can either be performed for time (ex. as many circuits as you can within 15-20 minutes) or by using a desired number of repetitions. To perform this circuit for time, complete 45 to 60 seconds, with no more than 30 seconds of rest in between each exercise. To perform this circuit using a set number of repetitions, complete 10 to 12 reps for each exercise, with 15 to 30 seconds of rest in between exercise. Perform three to four complete circuits before cooling down and stretching.
Prowler Sled Push
A tough exercise that will get your whole body pumping. Add weight as desired.
Pull-ups/Chin-ups
A great bodyweight exercise for back and bicep development.
Medicine Ball Lunge (twist optional)
This will get your legs and glutes pumping. You can add at the bottom of the movement for abdominal engagement and a challenge!
Single Arm Kettlebell Swings + Press
This is like a modified half-squat except you'll be pressing upwards at the end of the movement for a full-body engagement.
Photos are by the talented Julie Yeh!