It's tough to figure out if there are more folks making resolutions to embrace healthier lifestyles in 2009 or just to hang on to their economic sanity and ride it out.
Or make no resolutions at all!
In this past Sunday's Health & Fitness section, my colleague Sam McManis discussed the various diets – from lemons to cabbage – that some readers might consider in order to lose weight.
It's no secret that feeling good about yourself goes a long way toward easing stress levels – at home and at work.
One thing's for sure: If you choose to save money and lift water bottles as opposed to dumbbells or do squats against a wall at home vs. joining a gym, you won't be exercising in your flannel pajamas.
Technology continues to be at the forefront of activewear, and Portland-based Lucy activewear is rolling out a new collection the company hopes will create instant business.
It's called Power Gym and features the trademark "lucypower" fabric, which offers that all-important moisture-wicking feature and a great body-compressing, supportive stretch.
Kathleen McNally, vice president of design for Lucy, calls the collection "highly technical yet functional."
And a smart move, even in a tough economy.
"While other stores are clearing out their merchandise, we're bringing in this new collection because we believe women will reassess what's important in 2009, and health is one of them," she says.
The Power Gym collection is for year-round use, for a mix of exercises, from yoga to running. Look for bright colors like Geisha Red and Dahlia Pink.
"One of my favorite pieces is the RPM Knee Short ($58) ," McNally says. "It hits right above the knee and offers great coverage."
How to care for the pieces? McNally says everything is machine-wash cold. "Line dry," she says, "and don't use fabric softener because it can break down the Lycra."
Call The Bee's Leigh Grogan, (916) 321-1129.
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