Summer or winter, the Olympics always seem to seriously ramp up the intensity of everybody’s workouts, which got us thinking: How do Bare Necessities staffers stay fit, have fun and feel fab—even during these hazy late August days? Read on for your daily dose of fitspo, and check out our brand-new activewear arrivals for even more motivation.
Sonya Moursy, assistant buyer
Usual workout: Running, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or weightlifting, six to seven days a week.
Fuel: Before a workout I have a banana with a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter so I have enough energy to get me through. After a workout I have a protein shake or oatmeal with protein powder for a healthy mix of carbs and protein.
Wellness routine: Running really calms me. If I’m stressed, I absolutely cannot miss a workout because I feel all the tension inside me. So I always make sure to go for a run, even if it’s quick, to release some endorphins.
Essential activewear: Nike Elastika Biker Tank. The sides are open, so there’s more breathing room and you don’t feel so confined in a tight shirt.
Favorite Summer Olympics sport: I LOVE the Olympics, especially the summer ones, so it’s been four long years without them. Gymnastics and swimming are my favorites. I’m probably a bit more partial to gymnastics—I was a cheerleader growing up, so I know a little bit about the sport—even though it truly puts into perspective how amateur an athlete I was compared to them. These women are amazing, especially America’s sweetheart Simone Biles! Watching Simone perform so effortlessly has been incredible because I know to some extent how difficult it is. Not only is she an extraordinary athlete, she has a contagious smile and a personality that drew me in. This year’s games did not disappoint!
Erica Luster, associate buyer
Usual workout: I go to CKO at least three times a week. It’s a really intense 60-minute workout said to burn up to 1,200 calories per class.
Fuel: I eat an hour before. It’s generally a yogurt, fruit or a protein bar. Afterwards, my boyfriend will make me a protein shake, or I eat a light but filling dinner.
Wellness routine: I was doing yoga for a few weeks. It definitely made me feel more balanced and calm. It’s a nice way to offset the aggression from CKO!
Essential activewear: I love Onzie’s Chic Racerback Bra. It’s supportive for smaller busts and is adorably strappy. I wear it with Spanx Medium Control Capri Leggings. They’re slimming compression pants that fall slightly below the knee. They stay put while making your tummy and butt look great.
Favorite Summer Olympics sport: If I had to pick just one, it would be gymnastics.
Brooke Glassberg, copywriter
Usual workout: A weekly ballet and pointe class.
Fuel: A small, protein-centric meal before; lots of water during; a smoothie or piece of fruit after (or, let’s be honest, a glass of wine).
Wellness routine: I always feel virtuous—and exhausted—on the evenings I have class, so I take a steamy, relaxing bath or shower and try to get to sleep early.
Essential activewear: Onzie Weave Capris. I prefer a cute, feminine pair of Capri leggings to tights so my feet can really feel the floor in ballet shoes.
Favorite Summer Olympics sport: As a terrible swimmer, I’m in awe of Simone Manuel.
Shaneek Anderson, marketing project coordinator
Usual workout: When it’s not too humid and hot, I prefer trail walking. At the gym, it’s the 30-minute ab circuit area.
Fuel: Beforehand, I’ll eat either a banana or Greek yogurt. I find that eating a meal or drinking a lot of water before a workout makes me feel tired and sluggish. Immediately after, I drink at least 32 ounces of water to stave off dehydration.
Wellness routine: Every morning I make a smoothie using Shakeology, unsweetened almond milk, a banana and a tablespoon of peanut butter. It tastes delicious and keeps me going until lunch. Every few months, I like to do a 3-day juice cleanse. It’s tough but when it’s over, my skin looks and feels amazing and I feel refreshed.
Essential activewear: Enell Full Figure Max Control Wire-Free Sports Bra, because working out in a regular bra is the most uncomfortable thing ever. It should be outlawed.
Favorite Summer Olympics sport: Gymnastics. I have to sit on my hands during each routine because I get so excited watching them perform.
Devon Sanders, digital designer
Usual workout: Zumba once a week. I absolutely hate working out. I think it’s boring and torturous. With Zumba, you’re having fun and getting an intense workout. Dancing and laughing with friends is the way to go.
Fuel: I eat a little something—a granola bar, a banana—an hour before and drink a lot of water while working out and after. It’s best to drink electrolytes and have a small snack after a workout to replenish.
Wellness routine: Yoga resets my body. Doing it even once a week feels great. Also, listening to mediation apps in bed really calms me and helps me fall asleep.
Essential activewear: Spanx Medium Control Compression Leggings. They hold everything in and make you feel more confident while working out.
Favorite Summer Olympics sport: I seriously have no idea what sports are in the Olympics.
