We're in mid-summer mode and taking advantage of the warm weather and outdoor activities (while staying socially distant, of course). While we fitness editors take our workouts outside, we are also practicing self-care and fueling our bodies with healthy and tasty snacks. Take a look at what we are coveting this month.
Garmin Forerunner 645
"When my gym closed down in the middle of March, I got back into running outside, and forgot how much I love it! It's been so good for my mental health to have this hour outside alone just to breathe and take in the gorgeous country roads. I've slowly built up my endurance and enjoy tracking my runs to see my progress, and love this Garmin Forerunner 645 [1] ($220). I've actually stopped wearing my other tracker because this one is more accurate — it's even motivated me to get up for my 6 a.m. runs just so I can see if I can beat my pace from the day before. I also love that the display is so easy to read (even on sunny days), and it's water-resistant for rainy runs or swimming. I also love that I get text and calendar notifications, and the battery lasts up to a week." — Jenny Sugar, contributing editor, Fitness
Hylete Eclipse Petal Back Tank
"This Hylete Eclipse Petal Back Tank [2] ($48, previously $60) is my new favourite running top. I love the high neck that keeps me covered, and the feminine layered back that allows air to flow through, keeping me cool. The fabric is buttery soft and stretchy, and allows me to pull it up and wipe my face on sweaty summer runs." — JS
Banza Garlic Olive Oil Chickpea Rice
"Banza is known for its chickpea pasta, but I've been a fan of the chickpea rice for a while now. So when the brand announced it was releasing new flavours, I was excited to try them. My favourite is the Banza Garlic Olive Oil Chickpea Rice [3] ($25 for a pack of six), and it also comes in Chipotle Tomato and Ginger Scallion flavours. With 11 grams of protein and five grams of fibre per serving, it's more filling (and I think tastier) than an ordinary side of brown rice." — Christina Stiehl, senior editor, Fitness
Provoke XT Puma Training Shoes
"These Provoke XT Puma Training Shoes [4] ($90) give my feet a lot of support, and I'm really loving the secure fit and bold design. So far, I've worn them on long walks and for workout videos I've done in my home, thanks to YouTube and Peloton. I have quite a few pairs of training shoes, but these are one of my favourites so far. I mean, look how they stand out!" — Sam Brodsky, assistant editor, Fitness
Sleep Easy White Noise Machine
"I've had this Sleep Easy White Noise Machine [5] ($30) for years, and I use it every night to help ease me into slumber. It's also useful when I'm working from home and I'm not the only one in the house — it's a great noise blocker. There are different volume levels; all you have to do is twist the outer shell or the top. The more holes exposed, the louder the machine." — SB
Mineral Health Relief Body Oil
"Self-care is extremely important for me, and one way I like to take care of myself and my body is by using the Mineral Health Relief Body Oil [6] ($125). It's officially become an integral staple in my wind-down routine, and I love how it smells and how soft it makes my skin feel." — Tamara Pridgett, assistant editor, Fitness
Vuori Saltwater Anorak
"As I've been spending more time outdoors, I've been layering Vuori 's Saltwater Anorak [7] ($110) for my adventures. It's lightweight, fully water-resistant, and has UPF 50+. I love to wear it for extra sun protection for a hike." — Genevieve Farrell, Fitness and Wellness Director
Brooks Revel 3 Women's Road Running Shoes
"After a couple of nagging foot injuries, I finally ditched my ancient walking shoes and traded them in for a pair of Brooks Revel 3 Women's Road Running Shoes [8] ($80, originally $100). Technically these are running shoes, which means they have a good amount of support and cushion, but they're less chunky than my supercushy running-only pair. I use these for walks and errand running because they have a sleeker look but are still as comfy as an athletic shoe!" — Maggie Ryan, assistant editor, Fitness
Bombas Tie-Dye Ankle Socks
"I'm extremely particular about my socks (I know it sounds weird but I am), and the one brand that never ceases to amaze me is Bombas. The Bombas Tie-Dye Ankle Socks [9] ($46, originally $48 for a four-pack) are my current favourite because of how cushioned they are. In my opinion, these socks are great for all activities, especially running and strength training. They actually stay put and protect your ankles so that your shoes don't rub against your heel, which is essential in warm weather." — TP
Athleta Sutton Jogger
"I've been wearing exclusively stretchy pants for the last four months as I've been working from and mostly staying home, but these Athleta Sutton Joggers [10] ($89) make me feel a little more dressed up than my traditional black leggings. The high waist is comfortable and makes it easy to pair with a crop top, and I look a little more put together on the few occasions when I run errands around the city. I have the olive colour, which I love, but they also come in black and navy." — CS
Clifton Edge From Hoka One One
"I've been logging miles in the new Clifton Edge from Hoka One One [11] ($160). At first glance, I thought these sneakers, which feature an extended heel design, would be bulky, but they are so light. In fact, the extended heel helps to allow for a smooth landing! This month, I'm participating in the Hoka Ekiden Strava Challenge [12] to run at least 5K per week between June 29 and July 26, and participants can win a chance to wear a pair of Clifton Edge shoes."—— GFR
Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Creamer
"If I don't do a high-intensity workout in the morning, I'm rarely hungry enough for a full breakfast. I've been adding unflavoured collagen to my coffee for years now, but Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Creamer [13] ($29) makes my coffee a little more filling than collagen on its own. It's made with bovine collagen and coconut milk powder to give an extra 140 calories, nine grams of fat, and 10 grams of protein per two-scoop serving. Plus, the vanilla flavour is subtle but still complements my coffee (and doesn't have any of the bad artificial sweetener aftertaste)." — CS
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough One Bar
"My love for protein bars is well-documented [14], and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough One Bars [15] ($12 for a 24-pack) are my current favourite. You get a nice chocolatey texture on the outside and a creamy filling with lots of chocolate chunks, 20 grams of protein, and just one gram of sugar. I love these as a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up." — MR
Merrell Moab 2
"My other go-to hiking item this summer is Merrell Moab 2 [16] ($135). These waterproof shoes are incredibly comfortable and supportive for long treks." — GFR