Wow that’s probably my best alliteration so far.

Since losing almost 95lbs since my junk-food and all-nighter university days to now, I’ve discovered the happiness that comes from being in touch with what I eat, what I wear, and how I spend my time.

I started with wearing jogging pants and going for long walks, then I put books in my backpack, then began lifting weights and eating right. Now I’ve built my own standing desk at work from an Ikea coffee table and shelf, go for runs or walks at lunchtime and cycle to work on sunny days.

My attire never really updated though. It was practical but not stylish, and this is a big no-no in Vancouver. Seriously, if you’re not in the fanciest of leggings then you’re not even doing yoga right. I’ve never been much of a leggings-man. I just don’t have the bum for it, apparently.

Thank goodness for my go-to for everything remotely outdoors-y, Mark’s. I went with the key focus of updating my summer sports wardrobe, and then sharing it with you.

It’s pretty warm here in Vancouver, BC, so there aren’t too many reasons to layer up unless you’re running after dark, but the weather can be pretty fickle and if you’ve been getting sweaty, you’d be surprised at how fast you can cool off and start to feel the chill. The first piece I picked up was a Matrix Active 1/4 Zip top in dark grey. It’s moisture-wicking and antimicrobial so it dries out really quickly and you don’t stink!

Your choice in shorts is super-important too. They have to be comfortable but technically ready to handle any activity. The Matrix Active Woven Shorts are great for running as they’re nice and cool, but lots of stretch for cooling down or even yoga. 

Underneath the zip-up top is my running standard, a black short sleeve Driwear Cotton T-shirt.

I also got a knee support to address some aches I get now and again, as well as some shoe insoles for my work shoes to keep them soft while I compete in our office step-challenge.

Disclaimer: Thanks to Mark’s for the gear that will help me in my new healthy lifestyle and passion for fitness, as well as firmly dissuading me from squeezing into a skin-tight onesie like Flanders in a Ski Suit.