How to Score Pricey Workout Apparel on the Cheap

Fitness lovers! (Or those of you who just love lounging in sports/active-wear and aren't so much into fitness) do you long for those super trendy strappy sports bras and ultra comfy, yet fashionable yoga pants? Let's be honest, who has the funds or wants to shell out tons of money for those items?

Maybe you should.

Old Navy, TjMaxx, and Target have a ton of good quality workout apparel that won't break your bank. Make sure you check the sale/clearance section of your favorite stores (usually hidden somewhere in the back) such as Lululemon, Dick's Sporting Goods, etc. I know, that is obvious to most, if not all of you so here are some other tips on how to score name-brand workout apparel on the cheap!

Because SHOPPING.

I know, I know sometimes nothing but the lavish high-quality active-wear will do and hey, maybe you don't want to make the trip all the way to the store to get it or there isn't a store around you. Also who wants to spend upwards of $100 on a pair of YOGA-PANTS. Seriously, WHAT. With my tips, you don't have to worry about spending a week's worth of groceries on that super trendy and adorable workout tank that you want all because of the label.

Ebay and Craigslist

So when nothing but the super expensive stuff will suffice (and hey, I'm not judging! I have my fair share of Lululemon, Under Armour and Nike in the wash as we speak), go to Ebay.com and Craigslist.org first. Often, you can find Lucy, Lululemon, Nike, Athleta, Under Armour, etc. brand new with the tags still on for less than half of what you would pay at the store. UM, YESSSSS. Who doesn't love a good steal? *For the record, I have never tried Craigslist since I always just assume serial killers sell on there, but it might be worth a try. I have however used Ebay -be sure to buy items with tags on them and/or brand new without tags. Sellers are required to list the condition of their items so check that out as well. There are also "slightly used" items for sale on there that are usually in very good condition. Be careful, though - items might be more worn than as pictured and they may not be authentic. Ask the seller lots of questions about the item and do your homework on how to verify whether an item is authentic before buying. This article offers some great tips to ensure that you are buying an authentic product on Ebay.

Remember: DO YOUR HOMEWORK before buying.

Apps: MapMyFitness / MapMyRun

If you don't already have it, download the MapMyFitness or MapMyRun apps on your phone. You can get coupons, join challenges and enter to win gift cards, apparel, and other products from Under Armour. All you have to do is workout! Don't you love when your fitness and inner-shopaholic worlds collide?

IT GETS BETTER.

Facebook Groups

Facebook has a ton of shopping groups you can join. There are groups to buy, sell and/or trade all different kinds of stuff, including workout apparel. Lululemon has a few groups that I am a member of and frankly, it's where I score most of my Lululemon workout apparel. I love it! Like Ebay, people sell items from brand new with tags to used. Usually stock photos are not allowed (depending on the admin's group rules) which is a good thing so you can see pictures of exactly what it is you are buying. Make sure you buy/sell using PayPal's buyer-protection option just in case s*** hits the fan. In my opinion, these groups have been the best way to find pricey items for sometimes half the price of what they go for in stores or online. A lot of times you can negotiate the price with the seller and sellers are willing to bundle if you buy multiple items.

Now get out there and score some workout apparel so you can look fabulous while you get your fitness on. After-all, workout clothes are the best of clothes.