Do you ever wonder, how can I be environmentally friendly and still get in shape or workout? I know I do. My workouts are pretty green but are my clothes? And the laundry detergent I use to clean my gross workout gear?

More companies are starting to make gear with recycled water bottles or other materials, but it’s not as common as we’d like yet. You can look for clothes made from sustainable materials like bamboo or soy. You can also find gently used workout clothes on sites such as ThredUp and Poshmark for a fraction of the original price!

If you outgrow or no longer love your workout gear, you can donate it or sell it through a site like ThredUp. Some retailers will even take old clothes and recycle them. And your old running shoes? A lot of running stores accept donations and give them to people in need.

If you need to get some equipment, look for lightly used items! You can usually find used weights and cardio equipment at places like Play it Again, Craigs List, or Facebook Market.

Reach for a reusable water bottle over single-use.

What about post-workout care? You can now find many brands that offer a more natural product. You can find shampoo and conditioner bars that reduce your dependence on plastic. Or try concentrates! You add water and then put it in your container! You can find shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (and more!) in concentrate.

Make your commute your workout. You can bike, run, or walk to work or the gym! Use your commute to the gym as your warmup.

There is still a lot of research I need to do on more sustainable clothing and personal care products. What sustainable products and brands do you use? What tips do you have to green up your workout?


Jenna

Jenna Volden has a degree in business and has spent the last 10 plus years working for others. She believes it is time to start her own photography and writing business. She enjoys running, coffee and helping others achieve their goals. Gluten-free foods are a lifestyle, not a choice, for her due to celiac disease. She is currently based in Phoenix, Arizona.