This post brought to you by Soffe. The content and opinions expressed below are that of Ashley Brooke.
Dance – and ballet specifically – have always been a huge part of my life. I started dancing when I was in kindergarten, and I was immediately hooked. I basically worshiped the advanced class as a little girl. I would sit and stare through the window and beg my mom to let me watch their entire class. The elegance of their movement, their unbelievable strength, and their unwavering determination made me dream of a brighter future. As I progressed through my ballet training, I fell in love with the discipline of the art, the routine of the class, and especially the camaraderie of my classmates. When your friends see you sweat so much that your clothes are dripping and nearly hyperventilate after a strenuous combination, you develop a lifetime bond. We went through the war of ballet training together, and they’ll always be family to me.
Even though I haven’t danced regularly for years, I still self-identify as a dancer. I taught dance for years, but I’ve recently taken a break…and I miss it terribly. I definitely don’t miss the blisters, but I miss every other thing about dance. I’ve been dreaming about breaking in a new pair of pointe shoes, suffering through a tortuous grand adagio, and surviving a never-ending petit allegro combination. Before I try to fit into my now way-too-small leotards and tights, I’ve decided to re-start my daily fitness routine. I’ve been working out at the gym off and on for years, but I’m really trying to get back into a consistent, regular practice. Not just to lose weight or look better in a bikini, but to re-gain my discipline, mental focus, and sense of well-being.
Something that I learned from ballet is that having the right tools is incredibly important to your overall success. It may seem silly to some people, but having workout clothes are functional and fashionable is really essential to my motivation to workout. When I’m in workout clothes that don’t fit or stay in place, I always end up quitting halfway through my workout. I need fitness clothes that are cute and stay in place, so that I can focus on workout – not on preventing a fashion mishap. Throughout my dance career, you could always find a pair or two of Soffe‘s cheerleading shorts in my dance bag. Thankfully, they know have a full fitness line that is absolutely incredible.
Shop The Look:
Soffe Dri Drape Back Tank c/o | Soffe Dri Legging c/o
Lately I’ve been living in this Soffe Dri Drape Back Tank and striped Dri Legging. The bright colors instantly cheer me up, and the moisture-wicking fabric keeps me cool and comfortable throughout my entire workout. My aquamarine tank is so light and airy, and it’s the perfect layering piece for any workout. The star of the show is definitely the Soffe Dri Legging. The compression fit and soft waistband are figure-flattering, and they stay in place throughout a yoga session or afternoon jog. They’re unlike any other workout leggings I’ve tried in the past, and I’m pretty sure I’ll be purchasing all ten colors – especially since they’re so affordable!
While I love the aesthetics and functionality of Soffe’s line, I’m head over heels for their philosophy. Soffe’s The Strength Is In Us campaign encourages women to support each other as a group, and I couldn’t agree more. When I was struggling to survive a grueling ballet class or the third performance of the day, my friends pushed me to achieve things I didn’t know I was capable of. They wouldn’t let me quit, and together we accomplished incredible things. I know that I work so much harder when I’m in a group because there’s a palpable energy in a group setting. There’s electricity in the air when you’re surrounded by motivated and positive women cheering you on. If you want to find out more about this amazing campaign, follow Soffe’s Instagram and Soffe’s Facebook!
I’d love for you to join me on my latest fitness mission. If you want to be online workout buddies or accountability partners, leave a comment below!
What’s your favorite workout activity? Do you enjoy group fitness activities?
