Shop and Sweat in Sarasota County

Whether you live in athletic wear or limit its use to workouts only, Sarasota County stores and fitness studios can help you shop local to look fashionable and feel comfortable as you’re running around town or running along a trail. Gear up for your favorite exercise activity by shopping at these local retailers.

Running

Forgot to pack your athletic shoes or need a new pair? Locally owned Fit2Run, The Runner's Superstore, has two locations in Sarasota, one downtown and one in the Mall at University Town Center. At both stores, you can get expert advice on shoes – from brands like Brooks and New Balance – and even try them before you buy on an indoor track.

Once you’ve made your selection, take your new shoes outside at popular running spots, such as the Legacy Trail, a recreational trail built on a previous railroad corridor, and Nathan Benderson Park, where you can enjoy the view of a lake, see native birds and maybe catch a glimpse of world-class rowers practicing.

If the indoor gym is more your vibe, grab a temporary pass to Around the Clock Fitness where you’re guaranteed to find every piece of equipment imaginable, including treadmills.

Yoga

With a number of yoga studios and opportunities to do yoga outdoors all year long, Sarasota invites visitors and residents alike to engage in the ancient practice. Treat yourself to a new outfit to help get you into the right frame of mind.

Under the moniker Lisa L. Designs, Sarasota artist Lisa L. Frechette offers women an artful clothing line translated from her paintings, with her signature design titled Empower. Garments include brightly colored capris, yoga leggings and tops that will complement the equally artistic atmosphere of a free yoga session at the Ringling. (Note: Lisa mainly sells online, so order your pieces online before your trip.)

If you want to try on and purchase workout wear in person, visit national chain Fabletics in the Mall at University Town Center or stop in at downtown Sarasota’s Lotus Active-Travel-Leisure specialty boutique, which carries chic luxury brands like Alo, Ultracor, Vimmia and Strut This.

By following these chic shopping tips, you’ll discover how easy and fun it is to get (or stay) in shape and in style while in Sarasota County on vacation this year.  

Dancing

When you go out dancing, you want to show your best self. The same holds true when you’re in a fitness class. So why not enhance your dance wardrobe with a fun new piece or two?

At Fly Dance Fitness, you can do just that and truly dance like you’re on vacation. The primarily hip-hop studio turns the lights down during classes to add a nightclub-like vibe and allow for some privacy. But you won’t want to stay hidden long if you’re sporting the studio’s own au courant line of athleisure clothing. Instructor Stacey Marks designs the merchandise, all of which is emblazoned with Sarasota or SRQ, the airport code that doubles as the city’s nickname. New items arrive monthly.

Drop-in classes are $15. Be sure to plan on taking two classes during your week’s holiday because the second one will be free. Plus, you’ll have another occasion to sport your new Fly wear before heading home!