Outfit: Lululemon Wunder Train Strappy Race Bra ($58). AARMY version ($80). Lululemon Align Waist-Length Racerback Tank ($58). AARMY version ($75). Lululemon Wunder Under SmoothCover High-Rise Tight 25" ($98). AARMY version ($115). Nike Free Metcon 6 Workout Shoes ($125).
AARMY is a class with two different training modes — bootcamp and cycle — based in NYC. I tried a full body bootcamp, which is a total conditioning program that involves both strength and agility moves in a high-energy setting. Essentially, you feel like you're part of a military crew being pushed to give your all, and the class starts by grabbing equipment you'll need to get the job done (loop bands, weights, jump ropes, or medicine balls). Fittingly, AARMY has collaborated with Lululemon on a full uniform offering, which instructors tell me most clients adhere to. "Athletes love to wear full-length leggings, supportive sports bras, and crew socks. A lot of us usually wear black and white or neutrals," instructor Danielle Carafos says, confirming that most of the pieces in the line fit like a glove.
As a Lululemon devotee, I wasn't surprised to find that I loved the smooth feel of the Wunder Under tights as soon as I slipped them on (and I obviously just felt cooler being branded with the AARMY logo). I usually don't work out in a tank, but I loved the layered feel of this look and appreciated the tight fit since there was no shortage of jumping movements throughout class. In that regard, the bottom hem of the tank stayed flat the whole time, rather than riding up as I shifted my body. The sweat-wicking properties of Lululemon's apparel also shouldn't be overlooked; I didn't expect to sweat quite as much as I did, but I left the studio feeling relatively dry.
Instructor Akin Akman notes that "typically it's better to have a cross training or tennis shoe with ankle and arch support for HIIT training," so I wore my trusty Nike Free Metcon 6 shoes to follow suit and keep the color palette neutral. These are some of my favorite shoes for cross training, and they definitely didn't disappoint at AARMY.
