In my many adventures as a marketing temp for Team In Training (an extra job I picked up about 3 weeks ago), I have been able to experience some new and interesting things, one of which was joining Lululemon's Fun Run Club on one of their weekly Wednesday evening jogs.
LULU WHO?
Apparently, this "yoga-inspired athletic apparel" company has exploded in the market of women's cute & comfy's that can transition with you from couch to grocery store to brunch with your gals and then, of course, your yoga class, without ever feeling like you look frumpy. They also have complimentary classes on Sunday mornings (things like yoga and pilates) and a Fun Run Club that meets at 6:00 PM every Wednesday.
To be honest, I had never heard of Lululemon until my girlfriend from Chicago started complaining about the ladies who, apparently, wear Lululemon gear from head-to-toe and obviously have no intentions of stepping inside a yoga or fitness class.
Not living in Chicago, I haven't been exposed to Lululemon in this way. I see more velvet Juicy sweats and that sort of thing. I didn't even know we had a store in Pasadena, until my Team In Training boss tells me I should take some info on our events to their Fun Run Club.
THE STORE:
Very bright and colorful clothes for being yoga-inspired. Love that. They even have clothes made for runners, which is nice, but expensive. For example:
A pair of running crops at Lululemon (shown left in blue) compared to Under Armour crops (shown right in pink).
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Lululemon's is about twice as much $.
THE PEOPLE:
Definitely happy employees. It makes a difference when the people who work at the store actually like being there. Very helpful. Very friendly.
THE FUN RUN CLUB:
So, as I said, it was drizzling and a little chill. I got there about 30 min. early and looked around. The gal at the store wasn't sure if anyone else would show up for the run. Sure enough, two ladies did and so the four of us set out for an easy 3 mile jog. We did do one set of stairs and a hill but, it was a very manageable and conversational pace. I love chatting and jogging. It's a great way to get to know new people. Great run.
OVERALL: Thumbs up.
It's good to know there's a neutral and friendly environment where average folk can come and try a new exercise (like Kangoo Jumps), run with some other people or try out a yoga class, without having to pay registration fees and monthly dues and get up the nerve. This also allows you an opportunity to meet new people who value fitness like you do. The more people you know who exercise, the more likely you are to get out there and do it with them!
As far as the apparel, it is cute, looks comfy and I can see the draw, but just can't afford to re-outfit myself right now. Which is just as well, as I was told by my friend in Chicago, she may have to re-evaluate our friendship if I did.
