MP3-player friendly workout gear for those sticky summer workouts

By Amanda Macmillan | Self I'm obviously not the first person to say this, but dang, it is really hot outside. And not just in NYC -- all over the country. (Remember when temps hit the 120's in the Southwest earlier this season?) It's so hot, in fact, that t I need every single bit of motivation I can muster to get out and run or bike in this heat. (I'm not a dreadmill kinda girl.) And what are two of my favorite sources of motivation? New workout clothes and new workout tunes! If you haven't seen it yet, our annual music issue is on sale now -- and with it comes awesome suggestions for the perfect calorie-blasting playlist, as well as our first #SongsofSummer Spin class. In-book and online, there's tons of inspiration for filling up your music player with lots of heart-pumping beats. So how do you plan on sweating it out with all these awesome new tunes?Alas, and then we run into the workout conundrum: Those tiny half pockets in your iotty-bitty running shorts can't hold much, and sometimes you just don't want to deal with an arm band or a fanny pack (like the SELF staff-loved SPI belt) to hold your stuff. So check this great new summer wardrobe essentials that will keep your MP3 player (or your keys, cards and cash) safe, secure and sounding great while you run, bike or otherwise get your outdoor exercise on.Moving Comfort Foxie Tank: Layer this top over a racerback sports bra, and slip your media player right in the back pocket. There's even a port for your headphones! ($56; movingcomfort.com)

Danskin Infiniti Training Top: This tank has a built-in bra, keyhole back, and a side media pocket with a hidden zipper. ($38; danskin.com)

Brooks Infiniti Capri III:  Lots of running pants have back-zip pockets, but the one in these patterned capris is moisture-proof -- very important for keeping your devices safe and dry in this sweat-inducing heat. ($68; brooksrunning.com)

Specialized RBX Comp Jersey:  Bike jerseys are a good option when you need to carry lots of stuff; they tend to have at least two generous pockets in the back. I love this one because not only is one of the pockets is sweat-proof, but also because it comes in a sleeveless version -- great for biking, running or doing both at once. (aka a triathlon Brick!) (starting at $90; specialized.com)

Oakley Burn Shorts:  When it's too hot for capris, these shorts will keep you cool -- and keep your gear in place -- with a hidden zip pocket. It may not be large enough to hold your smartphone (sorry, iPhone addicts), but will handle smaller mp3 players with ease. ($36; oakley.com)

Adidas Suprnova Short Sleeve Tee This wicking tee keeps shoulders covered on sunny days, while its reflective detail offers protection after dark. Plus, the back zip pocket lets you go hands-free with your tunes. ($40; adidas.com)PS: Pair any of this gear with a set of sport headphones that have controls built right into the cords -- like this Klipsch model -- so you can toggle from song to song (or pick up a call!) without digging out your device. Now that is music to our ears.