Active by Old Navy helps you look good while exercising without breaking the bank!

It seems that I'm not going to be able to use not being able to afford exercise wear as an excuse not to exercise anymore now that Old Navy has launched an incredibly affordable activewear line! Active by Old Navy is made with quality cotton, spandex and compression fabrics and includes a range of pieces designed for performance.

The collection for women and men is perfect for anything from running to Pilates to yoga and offers attributes like stretchy and slimming compression fabric, moisture wicking, tag-free labels, flat lock to seams to prevent chafing and zipper pockets in pants and jackets to keep keys and other items from falling out - all combine for comfort and functionality during low and high-impact workouts.

The pieces come in a mix and match palette of solid colours and patterns that will change throughout the year. Items include: Side shirred compression capris and pants - $29.94-$36.94; Compression crop and full length leggings - $27.94-$32.94; Compression tanks - $26.94; Seamless cami and racerback tanks - $16.50; Active sports bra - $16.50; Premium capris and pants - $42.94-$46.94; and Compression jackets (shown) - $44.94.

As someone who isn't crazy about activewear because it always makes me look like the before pictures in fitness ads - I was pleased to discover that compression is latin for "sucks in all your fat so you look 10 pounds thinner"!

Available now in-store or online at www.oldnavy.ca

Active by Old Navy was launched in style at 889 Yoga in The Thompson Toronto Hotel where not only did we get to wear an outfit from the new line, but also take a yoga class. I chose the Restorative class and I have to tell you, it was freaking amazing! I was just getting over a cold so I was worried that the class might be too much for me but it was kind of like quasi sleeping in weird positions for 45 minutes - often with a lavender scented bean bag over my eyes to block the light - any class that promotes sleeping during exercise is okay in my book! I understand there are also other classes that are a little more movement inspired but I'll leave that to you ambitious types.

You can find 889 Yoga at 889 Yonge Street or at their new location at The Thompson Hotel at 550 Wellington Street W. and you can get more info at www.889yoga.com

- Lisamarie -

Heidi Klum Launches Her Latest Project: An Active Wear Collection with New Balance

While Heidi Klum usually looks polished on Project Runway, I've heard from various sources that her everyday style is pretty casual, so it's not really surprising she's now launching an active wear clothing line in collaboration with New Balance. I find the garments to be pretty basic and not terribly exciting but hopefully we'll see more interesting designs in the future...

- Christelle-