Tired of sitting in traffic each day during the morning rush? Keep forgetting to fill up your gas tank the night before work? Luckily, there's a bit of relief in sight, because it's Bike to Work Week! Originated by the The League of American Bicyclists as a part of National Bike Month, the next five days are dedicated to encouraging employees to ditch their four-wheel ride for a two-wheel one to ensure the trek to work includes some serious calorie burning. If you're not interested in peddling down the street in a suit, there are some pretty cool activewear shops around metro Atlanta that'll still have you riding in style.
West Stride
3517 Northside Parkway NW, Atlanta. www.weststride.com
If you're looking for new kicks, you're in luck. This shop is fully stocked with a variety of shoes for fitness enthusiasts of all levels. You can even test out your new sneakers with a custom fitting and mini run on a treadmill. Also offering spikes, apparel and accessories for both men and women, the store provides an updated list of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, dietitians and podiatrists in the area.
Lululemon Athletica
Perimeter Mall, 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta. www.lululemon.com
Calling all yogis! This one is especially for you. From tanks and pants to water bottles and, of course, mats, the international chain's "love for yoga runs deep." Here, you can learn about the different types of yoga and the clothing you need for each. But runners, cyclists and trainers aren't left out of the sweat fest. Products are now available for all athletes.
REI Perimeter
740 Barrett Parkway, Kennesaw. www.rei.com
Become one with nature when you shop at this boutique. Once you visit, you can pick up gear for hiking, camping, snowboarding and more. And what's super cool is that you're able to learn more about the outdoors by signing up for free classes such as the GPS One-On-One or Bike Maintenance course. Come here to service your bike, too, where professional and certified experts are there to repair any damages.
Athleta
Avalon, 6120 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. www.athleta.gap.com
This shop is exclusively for the ladies. Stocked with really cute workout tops, shorts, skorts, pants and swimwear, Athleta is all about the "Power of She" - an inspiring movement that promotes fitness amongst women. Find fashionable apparel and positive motivation when you drop in. Plus, you can bring your little girls, too, so they can start collecting attire to live active lives.
The Spindle
480 John Wesley Dobbs Ave., Atlanta. www.thespindleatl.com
Founded in Atlanta, creators and brothers Sharif and Ezz-Eldin Hassan launched The Spindle especially for cyclists. With stylish, functional and durable apparel, the products offered help commuters easily switch from their morning fitness routine to their daytime work life. The company also strives to build the biking community across the city by keeping their site updated with groups that come together each week to peddle down the streets of ATL.
Half-Moon Outfitters
1034 N. Highland Ave. NE, Atlanta. www.halfmoonoutfitters.com
Serving the Southeast region since 1993, this dealer makes sure customers have everything they need for their kayaking, rock climbing, backpacking, surfing, and traveling adventures. Don't forget to head downstairs while you're there. That's where all of the shoes are located. Dogs are welcome, too!
Big Peach Running Co.
320 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. www.bigpeachrunningco.com
With other spots in Midtown, Alpharetta and Kennesaw, Big Peach Running Co. carries a wide range of apparel, accessories and footwear. And the shop takes footwear fitting very seriously. Its three-step process includes testing of biomechanics (the study of muscular activity), foot characteristics, and feel and ride. You can even take advantage of the same-day shoe delivery service and the in-store workouts and training classes.
