If the gym clothes you're wearing make your workout uncomfortable, you might be restricted in the exercises you're able to perform.
What you really want are workout clothes that look great, but that you completely forget about when you're getting your workout on.
After all, what's the point in looking good at the gym if you can't nail your routine the way you planned?
With that in mind, let's take a look at what to pay attention to when you're putting together your wardrobe.
These tips will have you looking and feeling great.
Make Sure Your Gym Clothes Are Activity Appropriate
We realize there's nothing to stop you from wearing the same clothes for all your workouts. But is that the best choice?
There are many forms of exercise that are easier to do (and more enjoyable) when you wear clothes that are appropriate for the activity.
As an example, if you're a cyclist a pair of padded cycling shorts will make long rides way more comfortable
Yoga pants and running tights look a lot alike. But they're made of different fabrics that fit very differently.
Running tights are typically tighter in the waist and have a drawstring to help keep them secure while running.
Most of them also have a pocket to hold a key.
Yoga pants don't have any of these things. They're made to keep you as comfortable as possible while doing yoga (or, I suppose, just lounging around the house!).
If you have a budget that allows you to buy clothing that's designed for specific activities, you'll be much more comfortable and effective in your routines.
Focus On Comfort
No one wants to feel uncomfortable or self-conscious when they're working out.
Some factors in gym clothes that might leave you feeling this way include:
- Tight, restrictive sleeves
- Thick seams
- Shirts that ride up when you lean forward
When you try them on, make exaggerated motions like you would while working out. See how they stand up.
You always want your gym clothes to be non-restrictive and vent easily.
They should be completely forgotten once you being your workout.
Look For Reflective Or High-Visibility Clothes
This applies to those of you that do most of your working out in the early morning hours or at night.
Make sure the clothes you wear allows you to stand out to drivers on the road.
Bright colors and reflective strips are a great way to go. While some people think that wearing black helps you look thinner, it may put you in danger on poorly lit roads.
What Materials Should You Choose?
You can find workout clothes in several different materials.
Of course, there's cotton. In general, cotton is inexpensive, easy to find and is really comfortable -- at least initially.
Unfortunately, cotton doesn't wick sweat away very well and tends to get soaked when worn by people who sweat a lot.
Scientifically designed synthetic fibers are great at wicking while also keeping rain out and pulling cool air in.
If you can afford it, look for breathable, wicking fabrics that keep you dry and cool in the summer, and warm in the winter months.
Layering
Laying your workout clothes is especially important if you workout outdoors in colder climates.
Sometimes it's hard to wear the perfect amount of clothes to keep you at the right temperature.
To solve this problem, wear workout clothes that you can layer. As you start to get warm, it's easy to peel off a layer or two and find the right temperature.
When layering, make sure your base layer is close-fitting and wicking. Wear loose-fitting clothes over the top.
If it's the dead of winter, don't forget a hat and gloves.
Choose Anti-Microbial Workout Clothes
Ever notice that after you wash your workout clothes, as soon as you put them back on and warm up they start to stink?
To solve this problem, buy anti-microbial or anti-odor gym clothes.
If these aren't for you, try a cheap trick that can help you get rid of the odor. When you wash your workout clothes, add a cup of white wine vinegar to the rinse cycle. Or, pre-soak them before you throw them into the wash.
Sports Bras
For all you female gym rats, a supportive sports bra is an essential part of your workout wardrobe. This is especially true if you're engaging in high-impact exercises.
Obviously, a good sports bra will help you avoid those humiliating chest-bounces. But more importantly, they help prevent stretching of the breast's supporting structures.
Since there are no muscles in the breasts, your ligaments absorb almost all of the shock. This can cause permanent stretching that isn't easily repaired.
Compression Apparel
Great gym clothes are designed to provide you with support during your workouts.
Compression clothing is made of a Lycra-type material that serves to compress your muscles.
This material is found in workout apparel like:
- Calf sleeves
- Compression socks
- Shirts
- Shorts
- Tights
Even if you're a recreational exerciser, you can still benefit greatly from compression apparel.
It can help you get over those never-ending aches and pains you get after pushing yourself farther than you thought you could go.
Choosing the Right Footwear
A lot of us buy a pair of running shoes and use them for every activity. However, what makes running shoes good for running (typically very shock-absorbant) doesn't necessarily make them good for strength training or cycling.
In a perfect world, you'd use footwear that matches your chosen activity. However, if you're into a lot of different workout routines, you should consider getting a nice pair of cross-training shoes.
Gym Clothes Can Make All the Difference
When it's time to workout, you want clothes that make you feel as good as you look.
Choosing the right clothes for your workout will make you more effective and more confident.
Learn more about us and how we can provide you with the right apparel to send your workouts into the stratosphere.