Just because you're hitting the gym doesn't mean you have to look like a sweaty, unattractive mess. I hate to admit that lately I've been skipping working out altogether and have been looking for ways to get myself motivated again. I've also been pretty lazy when it comes to pulling myself together in the morning and that's when it suddenly dawned on me–why not try to look cute at the gym?
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Hear me out here: Taking just a few minutes to look half way decent before making a trip to the gym can make a big difference. Don't get me wrong, I'm not telling you to get on the elliptical all decked out in makeup. That's just crazy! But there's absolutely nothing wrong with looking and feeling good about yourself while working up a sweat. With that in mind, I've come up with 6 different ways to get you looking your best the next time you visit your local fitness center. Here's my plan:
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Show a clean face

I definitely wouldn’t recommend you work out with foundation or heavy duty makeup on. This combined with sweat can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Instead, make sure you throughly wash your face beforehand. Carry some disposal cleansing cloths on you, like Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes in Pink Grapefruit ($8) to remove any greasiness from your face between workouts.
Wear a little eyeliner

A little bit of waterproof eyeliner can make a BIG difference, just don’t overdo it! Simply add a smidge of black pencil liner, like Sephora Collection Flashy Liner Waterproof Eyeliner in Deep Black ($8), right along your upper lashlines and lower waterlines to pump up your eyes. Avoid mascara and just curl lashes before applying liner with an eye lash curlier for a wide-awake look.
Cover up zits

If you struggle with acne, avoid foundation and apply a waterproof concealer to any imperfections. I like Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer ($22).
Try a cute hairstyle

Avoid wearing your hair in a plain ponytail and try experimenting with a cute French braid or a sleek low ballerina bun. Use a shine serum to keep flyaways and frizz at bay. I recommend John Frieda Frizz-Ease Hair Serum Original Formula ($9).
Hide a pesky pouch

Downplay a bulging tummy with a lose racerback workout tank that provides extra support while camouflaging those problem areas.
Zobha.com, $78
Wear the right pants

Nothing turns me off more than when I see a chick on the tredmill sporting a pair of see-through leggings. Not cute! Instead try a pair of compression capris that will tuck in your tummy, trim your thighs and make you look instantly slimmer. These snug work out pants also include heat gear technology to help regulate your body temperature for a cool, more comfortable workout. Our Assistant Managing Editor swears by these!
Essentialapparel.com, $38