You have finally found the motivation to kick-start your new workout routine and signed up to the sports workout app or decided to hit the gym to try a new class or two. But then creeps the inevitable and mind-boggling question as you pack your gym bag — what do you wear going to the gym?
Rest assured, you’re not the first and most certainly not the last to scratch their head in activewear despair. Workout apparel has come a long way from the humble sweatpants or revealing 70’s marathon shorts. Today it is a multibillion-dollar industry with an overwhelming amount of brands and apparel options that it can be confusing to know what we do and don’t need really. Before you go maxing your credit card out, we’ve got some useful guidelines that will help you make an informed decision when choosing the best workout clothing for you.
- Comfort is key
It might be nice to rock the latest workout fashion line but no matter how stylish it may be or how good you might look in it, if you are uncomfortable and pulling and adjusting here and there while exercising, it will compromise the quality of your workout, adding a motivational hurdle to your routine. It is important to feel comfortable so you can move with ease.
- Shoes
The right pair of sneakers is imperative for most workouts. You want to look for shoes that fit well, support your feet, and reduce impact mainly when you run and jump. If however, you are doing yoga or pilates, we advise you to go barefoot as wearing shoes will limit your mobility and constrict your ankles and calves
- Sports Bra
Finding a well-fitted regular bra is hard enough, let alone trying to find one that will keep the gals supported and safe while working out. When shopping for a sports bra make sure you choose one designed for high-impact sport, this is doubly important for women with bigger busts. Training without a sports bra can be quite uncomfortable, especially when doing exercises that involve running or jumping.
- Leggings, sweatpants, or shorts?
The best workout clothing, in this case, is dependent on mood and weather. The priority is that you can move without restriction and feel good while you are at it. One thing to be aware of is the type of material you choose, especially if you expect to sweat loads. But more on that later.
- Tank top or shirt?
Both are fine, and just like the bottoms, you choose to work out in, the best workout clothes for women or men are all about preference, weather, and comfort. We’re all guilty of grabbing that old oversized, grey t-shirt we got for free that one time to work out in, but sometimes choosing an exercise top designed for the sport will let your skin breathe a bit more. Plus, working out in clothes that make you feel great, will also boost your self-esteem while exercising — looking good, feeling great. If you don’t have a sports top, then any standard t-shirt or vest is fine.