Reese WitherspoonIt's been 25 days since the first of the year when we all vowed to eat right, exercise more, and make 2012 our year to rock a bikini ... or at least appear publicly in a swimsuit of some sort. How are you doing on your resolutions?

Judging from attendance at my gym, I'd say many of us are still going strong. But I know that as the chocolates of Valentine's Day start springing up, and the weeks pass by, we often leave our good intentions in the dust ... covered by a heap of chocolate wrappers. So how to prevent what feels like the inevitable from happening?

My motivator: Great fitness gear. If there's some cute new tank in my drawer, I'm much more motivated to put it on and get going than I am if my only choices are ratty old t-shirts. Sure you don't need the fancy, pretty stuff, and it may cost a little bit more at times, but I can't think of anything better to spend my extra cash on than something that motivates my fitness routine. Here are five awesome active looks to help you keep that motivation and those resolutions:

tank topZobha; $68

Cute Tops

I love this version by Zobha that was sent to me to test. It's cute enough to run errands or go about my daily business before a workout without feeling schlumpy, but also functional enough to really get sweaty. This brand, is also a celebrity favorite. See it pictured on Reese Witherspoon above.


Lululemon; $98

Yoga pants

They are my staple for the gym and beyond. I wash and wear them so often that I refuse to buy another pair that's anything less than well-made, because I've seen too many of them get bally and saggy after just a few washings. These from Lululemon are made of some miracle material, because after a year, they still look fabulous. I know they're expensive, but they really are worth it. Plus, I live near a Lululemon outlet where I scoop them up for less.

workout dress
Athleta; $69

Fitness Dress

Fitness dresses rock for tennis, walking, hiking, and just day-to-day running around. I love the built-in bra of this one from Athleta that offers some real support.

exercise skort
$62; Title Nine

Skirt

I admit I was a late-comer to the whole fitness skirt movement, but I've come around. Cute and flirty and still totally flexible, they're a hot weather staple. I love the print on this one from Title Nine.

shortsPatagonia; $55Shorts

A solid staple, shorts work for any sport. These from Patagonia are specifically designed for trail running, but they have so many incredible features -- like reflective strips at the bottom and zippered pocket in back -- that you'll find yourself wearing them off the trials as well.

What are your favorite workout staples and splurges that are worth it?


Images via Zobha, Lululemon, Athleta, Title Nine, Patagonia