Step into spring with the best high street workout wear – from bold prints to designer collaborations
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THE sun is out and I don’t know about you but this warm spring weather makes the chance of me working out much higher.
And what’s more, the high street’s spring work out offering is really impressive this year.
As someone who exercises most days, I’ve noticed a huge increase in the number of people out pounding the pavements since the hour went back at the end of March - and at my regular pilates classes.
Whether those first rays of sunshine have spun people into a frenzy about getting in shape for summer - or, as research suggests, it's simply down to the fact that spring is the most popular time to exercise - there's no doubt now is as good a time as any to show off your workout wardrobe.
I've tested the newest sportswear from the high street and these are my top picks this spring season.
SWEATY BETTY - Best for style
Coming in first are the trailblazers of fitness fashion: .
Their Spring collection is one of the prettiest I’ve seen, with an array of floral leggings, bralets and tops on offer - as well as block colour prints like this Day Break Blue sweater, £70.
With matching shorts, £50, this set is perfect for heading to the gym for a strength session, popping on the white Athlete Seamless Ruched tee, £45, underneath for when you break a sweat.
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The sweater is deliciously soft inside and would look great over jeans for a day out, too.
The fitness giants have also released a range of Blue Meadow printed leggings, shorts and tops. I tested the range at a yoga class and was impressed by how lightweight and comfortable this range was while doing more complex poses.
I'm also obsessed with their brilliant blue Sweaty Betty X Saucony Guide 18 trainer, £130, which are sure to add a spring to your step - and outfit.
ONER ACTIVE - Best fit
Designed by global fitness entrepreneur Krissy Cela, the ‘squat-proof’ Oner Active sets are flattering, stylish and comfy all at once.
Their Peony Pink bralet, leggings and long-sleeve combo had me feeling like a real life fitness Barbie while running through my local park - and I love these bright, bold colours for spring.
Despite their simple design, the sports bra, £35, was extremely supportive and the top, £32 and leggings, £54, were breathable and lightweight.
The key test for running leggings for me is that they don’t slip down at the waist - and this pair passed it.
I also love that they come in two lengths and are seamless for a better fit - plus there are several other short sleeve and strappy top options which you can pair with them as it gets warmer and warmer.
They also washed really nicely - and dried extremely quickly.
F&F - Best supermarket range
Tesco's F&F spring edits are something to behold this year, with Kate Ferdinand's new collection launching this week.
These bold red stand-out pieces are my favourite - they wash really well and they stay up on the waist during workouts.
The 26-piece collection focuses on a range of quick dry attributes which is essential for this time of year.
The leggings are also seam free and soft to touch, made from buttery fabrics that cater well beyond the gym.
H&M - Best high street
High street giants H&M have been smashing it with their sportswear of late.
I love their simple designs and how affordable the pieces are.
Their pale pink Move sports bra, £18.99, is designed with contouring support and with their DryMove fabric which helps pull moisture away from the skin - and it actually works.
While this bra doesn’t have the support needed for running, I wore it in a hot pilates class and was impressed by how sweatproof it felt.
I also rated their lightweight running shorts, £18.99, and the DryMove sports top, £12.99.
Plus their move Sun Visor, £11.99, is great for sunset runs at this time of year.
Adidas X Farm Rio - Best designer collab
It’s impossible not to be obsessed with this co-ord (shorts £33, top, £28) from Adidas and Farm Rio - one of my all-time favourite brands.
The bright, vibrant print is perfect for spring and the fit is light and flattering.
The special CLIMACOOL fabric helps keep sweat marks at bay - and the entire outfit is made from 100 % recycled materials.
It’s a showstopper - and available in Lucis Fuscia prints too.
SLOGGI - Best for comfort
They aren’t a brand I’d usually look to for fitness - but lingerie brand Sloggi have created some of the comfiest work-out leggings I’ve tried in their EVER Infused range.
The Azura Blue leggings are a steal at £18. I’ve worn then running and to yoga and they worked well for both exercises.
THE COUTURE CLUB - best for quality
A lesser know brand in the fitness space, The Couture Club is swiftly becoming one of my favourite workout-wear brands.
The leggings are thin - yet never see-through, and the sports tops offer genuine support - so much so that you don’t actually need to wear a sports bra as well, even for long runs.
This baby pink top, £35, and leggings £40, are my favourite.
COLUMBIA - best for transitions
While the weather has been brightening up, I’ve still been finding it chilly while starting out on runs - or on the way to and from studios for classes.
This Helvetia cropped Sherpa Fleece from Columbia is my absolute favourite throw-over at £65.
The retro print is stand-out and the fabric is super soft but not overbearingly hot. It’s also water-repellant for any April showers.
Step into Spring fitness
Spring is a wonderful time to refresh your fitness routine - here are five free and easy exercises that you can do in 30 minutes or less
Outdoor Circuit Training: Create your own circuit workout in the park or garden, combining bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, lunges, and planks. Use park benches or playground equipment for added variety.
Running or Jogging: Spring is an ideal time to start or return to running, as the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. You could train for a local springtime charity run or simply enjoy a jog through the park.
Stretching and Mobility Work: Use spring as a time to focus on flexibility and mobility. Stretching outdoors can help loosen up muscles after a long winter and prepare your body for more intense activities.
Outdoor Boot Camps: Many fitness instructors host outdoor boot camps during spring. These group workouts often include a mix of cardio, strength, and functional exercises, making them a fun and social way to get fit.
Walking or Hiking: Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it perfect for walking or hiking. Choose a local park, nature reserve, or countryside trail to enjoy the fresh air and scenery.
GEORGE AT ASDA - best for dupes
I’ve been impressed with George’s sportswear offerings for some time now.
The Gym Locker purple Zebra So Power Sports Bra Vest, £17, and matching legging, £18, are a great dupe of a Sweaty Betty style ensemble.
The fabric is durable and easy to move in - but still have a secure waistband that prevents any movement during squats.
VUORI - best for quality
There are few sportswear brands that have impressed me more than Vuori.
The clothes are flawlessly designed and last for years - one pair of leggings I bought in 2020 still look brand new despite being worn many times.
Their new Bright Violet range of sports bras and leggings are made with BlissBlend Form fabric which is soft with enhanced compression.
Their pieces fit slightly larger - so I'd recommend ordering a size down.
NOBODY’S CHILD - best for big discounts
They are renowned for making pretty summer dresses but Nobody's Child are now making even prettier sportswear.
This green set is currently reduced - the bra is now £18, was £45, and the leggings now £24, were £59.
I tried a spring run in this set and absolutely loved the fit - it was comfy but really secure and the fabric colour has a lovely depth to it unlike cheaper brands.
MARKS AND SPENCER - best fitness range
Every time I try the M&S GoodMove range I am more and more impressed.
The designs often follow a Sweaty Betty dupe style for half the price, and the quality is often as good.
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I tried out the bright yellow crew neck, £25, which quickly became a staple in my gym bag (I've washed it three times and it still feels brand new).
Plus, I absolutely love this brilliant blue swimsuit - prefect for an indoor or outdoor swim.
