We should all do workouts regularly to attain good health, and improve the quality of our lives. Besides, it will give you that amazing hour-glass figure you can be proud of. Many experts feel that we should go to the gym at least four to five times in a week.
But what should you wear while working out? Any dress is not good enough. Your outfit should not just be comfortable, it should also help you do the exercises. Also remember, you don’t want to reveal too much on the floor.
Here are some clothes to avoid in the gym.
Baggy Cotton T-Shirts
You will certainly sweat in the gym if you workout intensely. And the sweat will make the cotton stick to your skin because it doesn’t evaporate quickly. You will have the chills and perhaps irritation too if the wet cotton sticks to your body for long. If it is too baggy, you may end up revealing too much in some poses.
Go for fabrics that hold moisture, such as Capilene, CoolMax, or Dri-FIT. These stretchy fabrics will cling to your body. If you are not comfortable, then wear a double-layer. Or, carry another shirt that you can change into, once the first shirt is wet.
Untested Tanks
Be careful with the tank top. Yes, it looks modest when you are standing up. But what about those times when you have to bend over for your push-ups? Always check the top view from different angles before going to the gym. You don’t want to flash in front of strangers. Lean sideways, bend over, and do those jumping jacks to see the bounce factor. Go for cleavage-proof tanks with a higher neckline. This should limit exposure.
Don’t Wear Clothes That Are Too Tight
Yes, it’s unwise the wear baggy outfits, but make sure that your clothing isn’t too tight as well. The key is to find a happy medium. The sportswear you choose shouldn’t hamper your body movements. You should be able to reach out comfortably.
Try short-sleeved fabric or workout tops that cover the armpits and shoulders. That would be roomy enough for flexing, lifting, and waving the arms. For the bottoms, they are too tight if your crotch area is restricted during the lunges, squats or forward folds.
Here is some more fashion inspiration at Outfit Ideas HQ. Check them out.
Baggy Sweatpants
There will likely be a lot of equipment in the gym, such as treadmills, stationery bikes and others. The hem of a long and baggy pant can get caught on the water bottle holder, pedals and such things. You will then have to untangle the pant. It’s a hassle, one that you can avoid by not wearing a baggy outfit. The better option will be to wear shorts, slim-fitting long pants or capris.
Unsupportive Sports Bras
You cannot focus completely on the workout if you are too self-conscious or feeling uncomfortable. Always wear a good sports bra. It will protect the tissues and ligaments in your chest from too much stretching. This will help you push harder.
Consider your body shape and the impact level of your workout schedule. A low-impact bra is good for walking or yoga. But you need a high-impact bra for intense cardio and interval training. Bras in moisture-wicking fabrics with covered or flat seams will reduce the chafing and trapped sweat. Go for bras with wider straps if you have a larger chest.
Jewelry
Never wear jewelry that sticks out, swings and hangs in the gym. It will surely get in the way. Besides, these things will not allow you to focus completely on the workout, because you will always want to protect the jewelry. Even wedding rings can get damaged when you lift weights. It may also get caught in the yoga mat.
It’s best to stow them away in the locker before you reach the floor.
Thong Underwear
Inconspicuous underwear is good below slim-fitting pants or shorts. However, a thong is not the right thing to wear. Rectal bacteria will travel along your thong when you sweat and may reach the vagina. The bacteria may even reach your urinary tract and cause an infection. The thong underwear may also worsen an existing irritation. So it’s best to avoid this. Wear a seamless, almost invisible underwear bottom. Make sure that it is sweat-wicking material.
Now that you know what NOT to wear, here are 37 ideas for the best outfits to wear working out.
