Seems like being a mom, you’re always in a time crunch. From taking the kids to school and lessons, to keeping on top of housework, maintaining an exercise routine, and a full family schedule, there is a lot of juggling to be done. On top of your crazy schedule, managing a budget can seem impossible.

Spending money on workout clothes can seem like a huge budget drain, especially when you need new running shoes every year, sweat-wicking shirts, and breathable fabrics that can be expensive. It can be tough to dress yourself while chasing after messy kids as well.

They are always growing out of clothes and shoes, and it feels like your clothing money is quickly siphoned away. But you don’t have to break the bank to find some great pieces. Before you start shopping, check out your workout wardrobe for a few pieces you might be missing.

Thrift Shopping

With your workouts in mind, start with thrift stores. Thrift stores are not the dusty, smelly places of the past. Many people donate their clothing they no longer wear or need, which often include name-brands like Nike and Under Armor. Women might donate clothing because the piece doesn’t fit right, or they didn’t like how it looked, and many items could be brand-new.

Smart Shopping with Coupons

You can also shop online with the right coupons. Shopping at an online stores like Overstock means you’ll be able to get name brand clothing at a discount, and sometimes you’ll even get discounted or free shipping.

Check to see if there are seasonal or weekly specials going on and compare prices to what you’d be getting at a department store. You can find a lot of coupons for free shipping or free club memberships for places like Overstock, Amazon, and more through a site like Discountrue.com.

Shop at the End of Seasons

If you shop at the department store, make sure you’re cruising for end of season deals. At the end of summer, there’ll be plenty of beautiful clothes for next year, you’ll just have to plan ahead by knowing what you’ll need next season.

Stay away from trendy items like patterned tanks and yoga bottoms that will be out of style by next year. The clearance rack is the best place to find inexpensive items and keep things under budget

Budget

Before heading to the store, make sure you have a budget in mind. After you’ve set aside enough money for bills and necessary items, you should set an amount you can spend on clothes. It might take saving up for a few months before you can have enough to spend on a shopping spree.

Create a monthly budget for yourself as well. When you find a bargain, you’ll be able to make a purchase without breaking the bank. Deals don’t always happen when you expect, so it’s important to have spare money in the budget for the valuable finds.

No matter what you buy, make sure it’s a quality piece that will last you a while. You can purchase a couple of trendy bras and tanks, but stick to classic pieces like winter leggings and sturdy running shoes that will last for years. You’ll be able to stretch what you wear to the gym for many seasons to come.

You don’t have to forgo fun workout clothing when you have children, but it is vital that you plan ahead. Use coupons before shopping online retailers and remember to shop out of season for the best deals.

Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most her time hiking, biking and gardening. For more information on getting discounts check out coupons at Overstock or Discountrue. Contact Brooke via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.