Great — here are practical, budget‑friendly picks and tips so you get good performance without paying premium prices.

Top budget brands (what to buy them for)

• Target — All In Motion / JoyLab: solid, inexpensive leggings, shorts, and sports bras that hold up for general workouts. (nymag.com)
• Old Navy (Active): cheap, comfortable leggings and PowerSoft bras — good everyday gym wear. (nymag.com)
• Amazon brands (Amazon Essentials, Core 10) and CRZ Yoga: excellent value, frequent sales, and surprising performance for price. Amazon Essentials was recently highlighted for strong value. (womenshealthmag.com)
• Uniqlo and Decathlon (Quechua/Kipsta): great basics and sport‑specific items (hiking, running, racquet sports) at low price points. (Decathlon is especially good for outdoor gear.) (wellandgood.com)
• Aerie and H&M Sport: stylish, affordable pieces and matching sets for light to medium workouts. (asweatlife.com)
• 90 Degree by Reflex, Baleaf, and other Amazon sellers: cheap Lululemon‑style leggings and workout sets — watch reviews and returns. (joinfitgear.com)

Budget shoe picks

• For running/walking on a budget: Brooks Ghost (outlet sales often drop price), ASICS and Under Armour have reliable budget models. GoodHousekeeping tested budget sneakers and named solid affordable options. (goodhousekeeping.com)
• For weightlifting or casual gym: Converse Chuck Taylors or affordable Reebok/Nike training shoes. (goodhousekeeping.com)

Quick shopping strategy (save the most, avoid wasting money)

• Buy staples in neutral colors (black/navy) — you’ll wear them more.
• Look for moisture‑wicking, four‑way stretch fabrics for leggings and tops (poly/spandex blends). Avoid 100% cotton for sweaty workouts. (joinfitgear.com)
• Prioritize fit for sports bras and shoes — compression and support matter more than brand. Use size charts and read recent reviews. (nymag.com)
• Use sales and outlets: Prime Day/Big Deal Days, seasonal clearance, and retailer apps often cut prices dramatically (recent Prime sales featured deep discounts). (womenshealthmag.com)
• Try outlet stores, thrift, consignment, or marketplace apps (Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace) for high‑quality pieces at big discounts.
• Buy 1–2 higher‑quality items if you can (good running shoes, a reliable high‑support sports bra) and fill rest of wardrobe with budget pieces.

What to buy first (starter list)

• 1 pair of neutral, high‑waist leggings (Target, Old Navy, Amazon brands)
• 1 medium‑ or high‑support sports bra (Old Navy PowerSoft, Aerie, Core 10)
• 1 lightweight performance tee or tank (Uniqlo / H&M / Amazon Essentials)
• 1 pair of training or running shoes (shop outlet deals; pick by activity)
• 1 light jacket or zip (Decathlon, Uniqlo, Target)

If you want, tell me: your primary activities (running, lifting, yoga, walking) and a price range (e.g., <$20 per item, <$50), and I’ll give a 5‑item shopping list with links and current sale suggestions.