100 Years of Women's Workout Style: Heels Were Once Gym Bag Staples

Heels Were Once Gym Bag Staples
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In the world of fitness footwear trainers face little competition, but that hasn't always been the case.

For much of the last 100 years women have worn heels to work out, as demonstrated in the '100 Years of Workout Style' video from MODE and Blogilates founder Cassey Ho.

The video kicks off in 1910 when women would work up a sweat in collared blouses, maxi skirts and heeled ankle boots.

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Heels made way for a slightly more practical onesie and flats in the 1930s - although the shoes on show would have offered a distinct lack of support.

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Heels were back in the 1940s and remained the fitness footwear of choice for the next two decades.

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From the 1960s work out outfits started to look a more like the sportswear we know today, with lace up sneakers and t-shirts, and the 1970s saw the birth of the leotard.

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But of course it was the 1990s that took the lycra to the limit with this Mr Motivator inspired get up.

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Watch the video above to see 100 years worth of fitness outfits in all their glory.

Best Fitness Gear January 2016
We Are Handsome Kinabalu Active Leggings(01 of08)
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£135 from Hipandhealthy.com

Even if your workouts are confined to the gym, you can still embrace the great outdoors with luxe graphic prints. These leggings are also made from Subli-Cool 2.0 Polyester - sweat absorbing, quick drying, plus cool and comfortable to wear.
Varley Ella Technical Vest(02 of08)
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£50 from Hipandhealthy.com

Show off your sports bra and the top of your leggings with pride with this modern mesh vest. The loose fit will keep you feeling cool, as well as looking stylish.
Nike Air Max Thea Jacquard Premium(03 of08)
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£105 from Nike.com

The shoes we're dreaming of owning this year. Nike's lightweight, yet supportive, Air Max design has received a new season revamp complete with desert camo detail.
Lorna Jay LJ Chevron Phone Holder(04 of08)
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£22 from Activeinstyle.co.uk

Because workouts are so much more enjoyable when you get to pick the soundtrack. This lightweight phone holder has safety reflective tape and a clear window, so you can switch songs on the go.
Sweaty Betty Thermodynamic Run Top(05 of08)
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£95 from Sweatybetty.com

Don't let the weather get in the way of your runs. This thermal top, with dropped back hem and reflective panels, provides the perfect amount of coverage.
Lululemon Women's Ultimate Running Sock(06 of08)
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£10 from Lululemon.co.uk

Who says socks have to be boring? Stop your feet feeling the burn when you run with these high-density cushioned socks. They also feature wicking nylon and mesh inserts to avoid the dreaded 'sauna sock' scenario.
Reebok Hero Power 2.0 Bra(07 of08)
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£35 from Reebok.co.uk

This sports bra may look sweet, but its sturdy design means your cardio routine doesn't have to be. The chafe-free seams and mesh ventilation are a great finishing touch.
Adidas 3-Stripes One-Piece Swimsuit(08 of08)
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£26 from Adidas.co.uk

Bring back 90s sportswear chic with this classic swimsuit. It's made from chlorine damage-resistant fabric, has comfy medium-cut legs and a X-back for speedier swims.