We all know decent gym wear costs a fortune. On top of the price of gym membership, the eye-watering amount you can end up spending on kit alone is enough to make you break into a sweat and burn a few calories.
However, Strictly star, professional dancer and mother-of-one Oti Mabuse’s new Reaktiv fitness range for Sainsbury’s Tu clothing could be about to change all that, as prices start at £10.
At first glance, the range oozes quality – and at a quarter of a price that big-name rivals, such as lululemon and Sweaty Betty charge, it’s got the potential to be the perfect designer dupe.
Plus, the range caters for sizes XSmall to XXLarge, which is another win.
But how fit is it for purpose?
As someone who spends a huge amount of money going to the gym, and is always looking for ways to avoid eye-watering prices for my fitness gear, I gave five items a try over a week to see how they shaped up.
Here’s my verdict…
Reaktiv Soft touch yoga roll top jogger, £22
Here’s your winner first off. The boot cut design make this instantly flattering and magically lengthens your leg. These are so soft and lightweight, I change into them after my workout and team with a chunky sweater for a perfect style combination.
The charcoal colour option is a great alternative to daytime leggings, while the navy blue option teams nicely with other colourway tops in the range.
A wide waistband sits snuggly around your tummy, and it’s true to size. I’ve seen yoga joggers for sale for three times the price, with exactly the same soft feel.
Reaktiv scuba half zip funnel sweatshirt, £24
Top fitness brands charge double the money per sweatshirt, and yet this feels like a premium product.
Super soft to the touch, with a reflective stripe sewn alongside the zip front, it’s perfect for workouts in a colder gym – or for chilling out at home in front of the TV.
I’m a size 12, and the medium was a nice loose fit, with a lovely subtle shape. Comes in grey or bright blue.
Reaktiv Bright leopard print swing vest, £14
To be honest, while this looks great on Oti, I wasn’t sure if this would suit me. But in real life, the dark colours make this look like a top-price designer range.
Fitness tops often pull at the arms, but the low-cut design under the arms gives you plenty of movement on the Cross Trainer. No friction or static either, just a lovely silky feel and a nice baggy shape around the tum. Generously cut, so size down if in doubt.
Reaktiv Mesh tank top, £14
There’s very few pieces of fitness wear I could team with jeans but this lovely deep teal shade, combined with the softest of material, means this doubles easily as a daytime top.
Size M was perfect for me, giving me plenty of space to move.
ReaktivPadded funnel-necked gilet, £20
Fancy a bargain? This lovely padded gilet, which comes in cream, green (more of a teal) and a lovely charcoal grey, is a perfect lightweight option for your gym bag.
Looks so much more expensive than it really is, and includes pockets for your keys. A gym must-have at a great price and guess what – machine washable, which is an extra bonus, especially if you get the white one! Win win.
Oti x Reaktiv by Tu is available exclusively online at Tu.co.uk and Argos.co.uk and in selected Sainsbury’s stores now. Find out more here.