It’s the second Saturday of the year, and go figure, I am already struggling with keeping to my fitness routine. Would I work out more if I had the latest Wii training system? Should I buy a new DVD to get myself motivated? No way, I know from passed experiences that my best bet is a group fitness class. I may do some working out at home, but I need the pressure of a class to keep me committed.

As an incentive to get me rolling on the weekend, I met up with personal trainer Lynda Gronlund after a rather grueling class at PKSA Karate. I asked her to share her top 3 shops around Ann Arbor for fitness related products. Here are the results:

Play It Again Sports. You can find old and new stuff, without having to pay a lot of money. Lynda favors the well priced used equipment, and is pleased with the selection. She recently picked up a BOSU ball (retails for about $110) for $30, and a mini trampoline for $25. The BOSU ball is a giant sliced in half workout ball that eases joints in cardio workout. It’s more fun and fits better in front of a TV than a treadmill. Play It Again Sports also will buy your used or grown out of equipment, so its a great store to know if you have growing kids that like to try out new sports. Their website lists specific types and brands of gear they are eager to buy.

Play It Again Sports is located in the Westgate Plaza, hours in information can be found here.

Dunham’s. Dunham’s is a go-to for fitness staples. They cater to a variety of sports, and you can almost always find what you are looking for. They have a good selection for items like kettlebells and hand weights. I found a 25 lb. kettlebell (the kettle-shaped hand weight) and DVD combo for $60.

Dunham's has two locations nearby, find hours and information here. Better Health Store. I asked Lynda about nutritional supplements and vitamins; where to go, who to trust? She said that her background and certification is through the American Council on Exercise, and that she agrees with their stance that it is best to get all of your body’s needs filled nutritionally. She added, however, that many people do rely on vitamins and supplements, and this is an area that she is exploring further. She likes the variety of products at Better Health Store, and they earn her top pick because the staff is helpful and knowledgeable.

Better Health Store is local to SE Michigan, and has 13 locations; one serving Ann Arbor. It is located in the Lamp Post Plaza on Stadium, and hours and information can be found at their website.

Lynda Gronlund offers her expertise and personal training services around Ann Arbor at a number of settings. More information and advice can be found at Balance Point Fitness.

Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals, and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com