Whether you're a workout fiend or a first-timer, sometimes we all need a little morale boost before hitting the gym. TODAY Style Editor and 's Bobbie Thomas shares tips that'll help you look and feel your best before you even break a sweat.Hourglass Body Types
If you've got "girlfriends" up top and hips down below, a belted waist is always your best bet for showing off your shape when out and about. But in less formal circumstances like the gym, you can look to flare leg pants and slightly longer tops to help "balance" your frame instead. A flare leg can actually create the illusion of a smaller chest and hips. Just be sure not to visually crop yourself at your widest point and try longer tops that dip slightly in the center at the hemline, or layer tanks for an elongating effect. (Essential Tanks, 2 for $26; Yoga Classic Pant $29.50, ; Long Sleeve Wide-Neck Top $19.99, ).
Story: The most stylish fitness gear for under $25 Inverted Triangle Body Types
Whether it's from swimming or just genetics, countless women are given the gift of slender hips and a fuller chest and shoulders. These gals, sometimes referred to as "apple" body types, can streamline their silhouettes by drawings attention downward. Skinny, fitted leggings with a long, loose, top will do just that. Donning an open cardigan or zip-down hoodie is another trick that can help create an alluring, lean line through your ensemble. And a word to the wise, you may want to resist the urge to slip into a coordinated tracksuit — the broad cut and single color can leave you looking boxy! (Racerback Swing Top $58, ; O'Neill 365 Verve Wrap $89, ; Gapfit Gfast Colorblock Leggings $55, )
Story: New Spanx for the gym let you work it while you work outTriangle Body Types
Call it bootylicious, call it a "pear shape," or call it curvy...whatever you call it, be proud to flaunt this feminine body type at the gym! Baggy tops (particularly those with a dropped 'dolman sleeve') can add unwanted bulk and hide those sleek shoulders so slip into a fitted tank instead to show off your toned upper body. Tapered and harem pant styles can also be slightly less than flattering, so opt cropped! Slim capri pants can add length to your legs and balance your backside. The new "Ideology" activewear collection from Macy's is a particularly great resource, designed by dancer (and 'triangle'' body type) Cheryl Burke (Ideology Striped Racerback Tank & Cropped Leggings $28-$34, )