Water Bottle | Sports Bra | Shorts | Beach Towel | Yoga Mat | Face Towel

Working out doesn’t have to be something to dread; instead, it can be turned into a positive event by going to the gym with friends and having fun. This list of workout gear is sure to give anyone motivation to get off the couch and into the gym, while also looking stylish.

1. Layered Running Shorts
These shorts are not only super comfortable, but they also come in seven colors that are sure to help you stand out in a sea of grey sweatpants at the gym. The built-in shorts do not ride up and are sure to be a super fit.

2. Patterned Tank
This soft tank goes with any outfit, and the geometric design adds an extra flare. It is also comes in Icy Aqua and Black Jack- two awesome colors to make any outfit pop.

3. Seamless Sports Bra
All of the reviews on this sports bra agree that this is a fantastic purchase. One customer says “I really love this bra! I've come to love seamless workout undies, and these are no exception. They wick very nicely, which is great in hot yoga or spin.” It looks great under workout shirts, and the removable padding also enhances for extra “oomph.”

4. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential to a healthy workout, and this cute water bottle does the trick while still staying fashionable. The bottle comes in three great patterns to match any workout outfit.

5. Colorful Yoga Mat
For those who like the calming effect of yoga, this mat is durable, yet lightweight and chic.

Working out does not have to cost a fortune, and these trendy workout accessories assure that no one has to go to the gym in boring old sweats. No matter if it’s the gym, park or studio, with these workout accessories, any College Gloss girl is sure to look confident and chic while getting in shape.

Article Sources: Forbes, Livestrong, Health Enhancement Group, Health, Fit Day, ABC News, NBC News, Active

Spring break is one of the most anticipated breaks for college students. However, the preparations for sculpting a perfect beach body after holiday feasting aren’t as popular. There’s no need to join a gym, or even go to one for that matter, with these exercises that can be done from the comfort of home.

Squats: For basic squats, spread both legs shoulder length apart and squat down to a 90 degree angle; come back up and repeat. Also, be sure to keep the back straight, as if the body was positioned against a wall. Take this exercise up a notch by holding a 10-pound weight parallel from the chest cavity or do squat-jacks. Squat-jacks begin as a normal squat, but then bring legs together and do a closed-leg squat. That’s one rep. Aim for 20.

Planks: Lying on the abdomen, lift the body onto toes and elbows, positioning feet shoulder length apart. Stay in this position for a minute. For advanced plankers, try the plank-style pushups. Simply stay in plank position, and lift off each elbow one at a time. Drop back down to each elbow; that makes one rep.


High Knees: Stand up straight and lift the starting leg to waist level at a 90 degree angle, alternate legs at a quick pace (maintaining comfort). This can be done for two reps of 30 seconds or longer.



Mountain Climbers: For mountain climbers, lie on the floor, position the body into a plank, bring one leg up (high knees style) and alternate legs at a quick pace for two reps of 30 seconds.


Wall Sits: This is a simple exercise, and it can be done while studying over note cards. Studies have proven that working out can improve memory; so you have nothing to lose. To get started, lean back on a wall and squat (position legs at a 90 degree angle). Hold this pose for one minute. If a whole minute is too much, break the time into 30 second increments.

Butt Trilogy: These three exercises are specifically for toning the butt area. Do them in a sequence for best results. For each of the exercises, the position will be “all fours.” Attempt to do at least 20 reps for each leg.

Donkey Kicks: Take the right leg and lift, as if reaching for the back of the head, then switch legs. Without a break, go on to Fire Hydrants. Take each leg, one at a time, and lift out to the side at a 90 degree angle. Finish up the trilogy with side whip kicks (whipping the leg at a quick, steady pace). Start with the right leg and whip-kick it to the side (alternate to the left leg). Be sure begin with the same leg each time.

Level-up Crunches: Begin with both feet positioned on the ground in a 90 degree angle, and place both hands behind the head. Begin the reps. Lift both legs into the air in 90 degree angle and do another rep. Once the second rep is complete, lift both legs straight into the air and do another rep. Repeat these steps going in the opposite direction.

Six Inches: Lie on the floor, placing both hands behind the head (sit-up position), and lift both feet 6 inches off the ground and slightly lift the head. The nose should be aligned with the tips of the big toes.


Here are some tips to remember when toning:

• Aim for at least 20 reps on each exercise or hold positions for a minute.
• Turn up the tunes. Working out with music makes it seem like less of a chore. Not to mention it will help block out that bittersweet burning sensation! Studies show that music can help reduce the feeling of fatigue; with an upbeat workout, throw together an equally upbeat playlist -- this will help keep the workout in sync with the tempo of the music. Likewise for a more mellow workout, such as yoga.
• Stretch before beginning any workout. This is a common rule of thumb for any workout. It will warm up the body and reduce risk of injury.
• College Gloss understands that exercise may be challenging to fit into a packed schedule, but attempt to workout at least 45 minutes to an hour, 5 days a week. According to The New York Times, this time frame will potentially prevent weight gain, as well as promote cardiovascular health.
• As you begin to see results, reward yourself with some spring break items, such as new bikini.

Now that we’ve provided a guide to becoming a bikini goddess ditch the machines and excuses and get started.

By: Kiarra Sylvester | Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Staying in bed and snuggling up with a cup of hot chocolate always sounds much better than going to the gym when it is below freezing outside. The hardest part about working out is actually getting there. It’s time to bundle up, grab a friend and get moving ASAP!

1) Grab and Go
An hour before heading to the gym, have a protein bar. Protein keeps hunger at bay, while still giving you enough energy to get through that tough workout! LUNA Protein Mint Chocolate Chip bars are loaded with the right nutrition, are gluten free AND taste like heaven! Protein bars under 200 calories are the best to get you going for a workout.

2) Plug It In
Make a rocking playlist of music to pump up with. Today’s Top 100 is always a great place to start, but don’t forget about the hits of the past. Try “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, “Rock You Like a Hurricane” by Scorpions, or even the amazing Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” Listening to music while pumping iron or taking a jog on the treadmill raises your heart rate and gets you going!

3) Keep It Fresh
We get it, the cutest boys are always at the gym, and this seems to be even more true on days when we feel our worst. Don’t fret; most boys are just as insecure! Don’t overdo it with the bronzer, blush, eyeliner or foundation; a clean face that is makeup-free will keep your pores from clogging. And if you want to put on a little something, check out our favorite makeup products to wear to the gym!


4) Cute but Casual
There is an enormous amount of workout gear in the malls today -- even some stylish leggings! But remember, it’s the gym, not a fashion show! Don’t worry about matching a watch with a T-shirt. Be comfortable and feel good while hitting a punching bag; the girl on the elliptical isn’t concerned about who is best dressed at the gym either!

5) Hydration Station
H2O is one of the most important factors when working out. With sweat dripping while burning those calories, don’t forget to refuel! Grab an ice-cold bottle of water and drink up!


6) Kick It Up
We all love shoes, but remember comfort is key. Check out Nike Free Run+ 3 for a lightweight running shoe. Starting at $100, these sneakers come in various colors including orange, pink and green. There’s no reason to feel dragged down while getting moving at the gym!

7) Try Something New
The elliptical and treadmills are great ways to burn off calories, but there is so much more offered at gyms! Zumba classes are easy to follow, effective and make working out fun. Check out a Zumba class, and dance, dance, dance!

We don’t know what you’re waiting for -- get up, get dressed and head on over to the gym!

By: Sarah Mattoon | Images: 1, 2, 3

For beauty fanatics that also love to work out, it may be challenging to go to the gym completely bare-faced. Wearing as little makeup as possible (or none at all) is great for skin, but every once in awhile a little pick-me-up may be needed, even at the gym. The trick is finding the right products with the right formulas so they don’t smudge or run when it’s time to turn up the heat. Here are six products that will enhance natural beauty without creating a “done-up” look.

1. Waterproof Mascara
On the eyes, definition is most important. To achieve definition, curl lashes with a lash curler, and then apply a waterproof mascara from the base of lashes to the tip. The application doesn’t have to be perfect, but make sure to apply an even amount on each eye and try to avoid clumping. One of the best waterproof mascaras is Maybelline’s Lash Discovery Mini-Brush Waterproof Mascara, ($7), which can be found at Ulta or on Amazon.

For light-colored eyelashes, applying mascara is especially important because without noticeable lashes, eyes can appear smaller and less defined. For those blessed with naturally dark and lush lashes, mascara isn’t necessary.

Drugstore alternative: L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof Mascara, $7

2. Brow Color
For eyebrows, there are two options. For light brows that need to be filled in, or completely drawn on, opt for a waterproof brow color. Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Brow Color, ($21), comes in light and medium to match any hair color. Unlike a pencil, this product won’t run or smudge. But if you have darker brows, keep reading.

Drugstore alternative: Cameo Perfect Brow, $7

3. Brow Gel
On the other hand, if you have thick, unruly brows, use a clear brow gel. Sephora released a Transparent Brow Gel, ($12), that is waterproof for maximum staying power. Just run a coat through the brows to smooth the natural shape.

Drugstore alternative: Ardell Brow Sculpting Gel, $5.50

4. Mattifying Mineral Foundation
When you’re at the gym, skin is an extremely important part of a workout. The body’s natural cooling systems open pores for sweat. So caking on a layer of heavy foundation and concealer will only clog pores. A light moisturizer is ideal. Those not comfortable with going au naturale, can apply a mattifying mineral foundation all over the face. BareMinerals’ Matte Mineral Foundation SPF 15, ($27), will provide coverage without clogging pores because it is free of oil, wax and chemicals that can cause breakouts. Also, its mattifying formula can help combat oil buildup from the gym.

Drugstore alternative: Maybelline Mineral Power, $8

5. Waterproof Bronzer
For greater coverage, apply a bronzer on the temples and the hollows of the cheekbones. Tarte’s Matte Waterproof Bronzer, ($29), works on any skintone, is waterproof and doesn’t contain sulfates or synthetic dyes. Blush isn’t necessary because working out will provide a natural rosy flush to the cheeks.

Drugstore alternative: Sally Hansen Waterproof Bronzing Powder, $10

6. Eye Makeup Remover
Makeup remover is essential for removing the difficult-to-wash waterproof products post workout. Try Sephora’s Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover, ($9.50). It’s safe for sensitive eyes and skin.

Drugstore alternative: Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover, $6.50

The best part about waterproof and long-lasting products is that they are useful for many different occasions. Use this fresh-faced look on days with too little time to retouch makeup, when it’s raining, during the sticky summer months or for a night of dancing.

Now that you have the beauty secrets for hitting the gym, don’t forget a no-slip hair band, iPod, student ID and water bottle!

By: Flannery Underwood | Images: Listed retail stores