Gone are the days of leg warmers and unitards while working out. Instead, workout clothes have taken a turn from sweat bands and baggy tees to biker shorts and razorback tanks. What you wear at the gym might not be as important as what you do, but it’s still important to choose your fitness clothes carefully.
As the gyms start opening up again, people are finding their way back onto their fitness journey. Some people are starting up new memberships, and others are setting new goals. As much as we loved those neighborhood walks after dinner, I know that I can’t get through the week without a good sweat session. Loungewear, athleisure, fitness wear, workout wear… It can be so overwhelming. What do you wear while you work out?
You absolutely do not need to go out and buy an all new wardrobe before kickstarting your fitness journey. No leggings will make you run faster, and no tee-shirt will give you abs. A cute outfit might motivate you to work harder, but the aesthetic isn’t what matters. Fitness clothes are workout clothes for a reason. For example, loose basketball shorts and the leg press is asking for a peep show. No bueno. Resistance bands on leg hair is also not idea. Start small with a few fitness wear basics, and add on as your reach your fitness goals. As you do, keep these tips for choosing fitness wear in mind…
Tips for Choosing Fitness Clothes
Functionality
Athleisure is a leading segment of the fashion industry right now, and point blank: fashion designers are not wearing these clothes. Don’t be fooled by the glistening models, they are not at the gym. That fake sweat is a gel they rubbed on, because if there was actually a workout involved the model would be miserable. Be mindful of your movement. High waisted bottoms, adjustable straps, and full support tops are essential. No one wants their goodies falling out for fashion.
Lightweight and Breathable
Leave the joggers at home for lounging, and choose pieces that are lightweight. Thick sweat pants will quickly leave you overheated, and can interfere with your ability to work the machines. Yes, you want to sweat, but you don’t need to drown in it.
Sweat Wicking
This should be an obvious, but you want to choose fabrics that pull the sweat away from your body. This will help to keep you cool and dry (don’t forget to hydrate to replace those electrolytes). This is important even if your body runs cold, or you’re working out in the winter, because moisture on your body when you’re cold can actually drop your body temperature dangerously as well. Sweat wicking fabric should be worn whenever you workout, regardless of the weather.
Stick to Solids
Although a few accent pieces will give you a confidence boost, solid pieces have more wardrobe versatility. A pair of black leggings, black crops, and black biker shorts can match any top (solid or not). If black is too solemn, find your power color, like red, and integrate that. Sometimes I will purchase a patterned set, but opt to wear them as separates with a solid. This greatly expands my wear. As with any capsule, be sure that new pieces can be worn with at least three other pieces before bringing it home. You want to make a statement at the gym with your gains, not your wardrobe.
My Favorite Fitness Clothes
It’s no secret that I live, breathe, and exist in my workout clothes. Not only do I go to the gym every single night, literally, but I’ve worked fitness wear into my daily wardrobe as well. I have bought pieces that I love, and pieces that I hate, so here are my favorites to save you the time of trial and error.
Yogalicious
Don’t let the name fool you, these workout clothes are great for cardio, lifting, and group fitness too. I absolutely love the feeling of the fabric (they call it “nude tech”). Sometimes I need to size up, or I will get underwear lines, but they’re absolutely squat proof. And most of the bottoms have pockets. They come in multiple colors that coordinate well.
Shop Yogalicious:
90 Degrees by Reflex
These pieces are designed for movement, and that’s why I’m obsessed. The pieces are very functional, fit well, stay where they need to be, and are affordable. There are so many options, if you are looking for variety in the sizes. Plus, they have some pieces with fun patterns. This brand also has girls, mens, and work from home pieces, which I haven’t seen with any other brand.
Shop 90 Degrees by Reflex:
QT Racer Shoes
As a runner, shoes are so important. When looking for a new running shoe, I always shop at Fleet Feet or a local running store. However, when it comes to a sneaker at the gym, I don’t need as much tread for speed. Instead, I want a neutral shoe that keeps my natural gait. Right now my two favorites are QT Racer Shoes, and also I like the Swift Run Sneaker. Both are affordable and can last a long time. I need my gym shoes in my gym bag at all times, and change into them in the locker room. That way they stay clean, and don’t get worn down.
Jockey Molded Bras
Full disclosure, my boobies are small. But I love the way these bras are fully supportive without squashing, and still have a feminine touch. I can wear them under a tank without too much exposure out the sides, or under a longer statement sports bra for added support and security.
Shop Jockey:
It’s also super important to have good socks. Socks are the most underrated piece of workout wear. Casual socks without moisture wicking might during the day, but the sweat will not only cause blisters but could also lead to athlete’s foot. Yuck. It might be a shock to the wallet to spend
I also can’t workout without a towel. Some gyms provide them with membership, but sometimes you need to bring your own. I like huge gym towels so I can always find a dry spot for my face.
And remember, you don’t need a gym membership for an effective workout! There are so many online streaming platforms available right now, for free or low cost. Take advantage of YouTube videos, or IGTV, before jumping into a paid streaming service.
Stay happy, healthy, and keep finding fitness.
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