Getting a great workout can mean something different for each of us. Some people are addicted to that famous runners' high and could not think of a better way to stay healthy and fit. Others would choose the tranquility and challenge of a powerful yoga practice. Yet others may love to head straight to the gym to work the circuit and get their body shaking to a vigorous aerobic class. Whatever the workout of choice, the gear is comfortable, stretchy and mostly made of non natural fabrics. If you are looking to green your workout routine with a few organic choices, here are a few ways to get eco-friendly with your exercise.
REI.com - Long known as the natural lifestyle company, REI is a great destination to pick up your outdoor gear including workout wear. Over the last several years, REI has done an outstanding job at adding organic and recycled material choices to their full line of clothing. If you become a member, all of your purchases throughout the year are added up and you will then get a dividend at the end of each year to spend at the store.
Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat
Yoga is a wonderful way to keep fit and find a balance within your daily life. By bringing focus to your breath, body and mind, you can create a mindful practice in your workout that carries over into everything else you do throughout your day. Some of the key ingredients to your workout routine is using a workout mat that is not too sticky, padded enough to keep your comfortable in all poses, and not to slippery to cause falls and injury during your practice. Adding the eco-friendly element to your yoga workout can bring your yoga practice to a whole new level.
LotusPadYoga.com - Believes that the tools you use in your yoga practice are just as essential to your awareness and growth as the practice itself. These beautiful double-sided yoga mats are made from TPE foam (thermoplastic elastomer), a newly developed and patented material that is resilient, non-slip, and incredibly lightweight and can be purchased with easy to use straps made from earth friendly materials such as hemp. What are they missing? PVC, rubber and latex which means they are decomposable in landfills.
Eco-Friendly Running Shoes
Today, even big name fitness companies are getting the message that staying fit is part of an overall lifestyle. It's a lifestyle that takes into account, not only physical health, but the overall health of the environment.
North Face - One of the great outdoor gear companies has been a front runner in creating a shoe from recycled materials. The North Face sneakers are made with post-consumer recycled materials, bamboo shank, cork mid-sole, bamboo/canvas uppers, and crepe toe guard, and 40% post consumer recycled rubber out-sole. Find recycled sneaker at Zappos.com.
End Training Shoes - Another great example of well priced eco-friendly athletic shoes that lets you workout and tread lightly as you run your path. End shoes can be found at Zappos.com and feature:
- PET recycled webbings and lace.
- Bamboo-infused lining has natural moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial properties.
- END® EVO Biosmart mid-sole consists of 15% recycled EVA and provides medial support, lateral containment, and outstanding cushioning.
You can even recycle your old running shoes at Recycled Runners and Run The Planet
Elena Lipson - Elena aka EcoDiva is a freelance eco-writer and consultant as well as a mama to sweet toddler who keeps her on the move and motivated to ...
