What To Wear To The Gym
I’m not sure you should listen to me on this subject. Just the other day, while I was shopping RueLaLa’s Saucony boutique for new shoes, my husband peered over my shoulder and asked if I was planning to buy new workout tops as well. Apparently, according to him, some of mine are looking a bit ‘ratty’. So this is basically a shopping opportunity for me as well. Hmmm….
What NOT To Wear To The Gym
First of all, let’s discuss what NOT to wear to the gym.
Leotards – Though trends from the 80s have come back in other fashion realms, leotards and legwarmers are not stylish options for the gym.
Baggy Shirts – Likewise, the super baggy hand-me-down styles from the 90s are also not suitable (or practical) options.
Ill-fitting Pieces – Whatever you wear, make sure it FITS. Clothes that are too tight will make you uncomfortable. Clothes that are too loose will just get in your way.
IPhone – You do NOT need an IPhone at the gym. Focus on your workout, not the latest gossip. Plus, the girl on the treadmill next to you doesn’t want to hear your conversation. Trust me.
Key Pieces To Wear To The Gym
Well-Fitting Sports Bra – Wearing a sports bra that fits well is imperative for a few reasons. Obviously, you want a bra that’s tight enough to make exercise comfortable. That being said, you also want to make sure your sports bra isn’t to tight or restricting. Constricting sports bras have a tendency to chafe and pinch.
Slim-Fitting Tops – Tanks and tees that are slim-fitting are more practical than their baggy counterparts that get in the way of weight machines and show your tummy during ab workouts. For intense workouts, wear racerback tanks and tees made with moisture wicking material. For lighter workouts, I like to buy the packages of men’s fitted undershirts and tanks – they’re cheap and fit well.
Appropriate Bottoms (according to type of exercise) – This is one of the major issues I see women have at the gym. If you’re going to be lying on the ground doing crunches, don’t wear loose running shorts that will show your business. There. I said it.
Running/Cross-Training – Since you don’t need to worry about the weather at the gym, shorts are always an option. Wear either loose running shorts or short compression spandex.
Weight-Lifting/Floor Exercises – When weight-lifting, you want bottoms that won’t get in the way. Since you’ll be lying on a bench (often facing a mirror), you also want to make sure your shorts are not loose and revealing. Wear spandex, capris or yoga pants.
Yoga – To give you fluidity of movement, wear yoga pants or spandex.
Spin Class – Spandex, spandex, spandex. Pants that are loose at the bottom will just get in the way – loose shorts will chafe – spandex (just above knee length) will provide the coverage and flexibility you need to make it through your spin workout.
Shoes – Wearing the right shoes can prevent injuries. For the first time, purchase your shoes from a knowledgeable specialty shop. Chat with the shoe expert about what your needs are, what your typical injuries are and how you exercise. Listen to their recommendations so you will be able to shop on your own (at discounted stores or online) the next time.
Socks – Make sure to wear socks that provide enough cushion to prevent blisters and calluses. At the same time, make sure your socks are moisture-wicking to prevent athlete’s foot.
Cold Weather – Though cold weather won’t affect you nearly as much when you work out at the gym, you’ll definitely want to wear layers for coming and going. When you first arrive at the gym, do a quick warm up while still wearing your jacket and pants. Walk on the treadmill for a few minutes or hop on the elliptical. Your muscles should be warmed up before you do anything strenuous or you could injure yourself.
Accessories – Headphones, a towel and a water bottle are your essential accessories at the gym. Headphones will keep you focused and motivated (and able to ignore the IPhone conversation next to you). Have a towel on hand for your sweaty palms and sweat drips (it’s also good gym-etiquette to wipe your sweat off benches and machines when you’re done). And, a water bottle will keep you hydrated.
A Note About Makeup – If you can stand it, don’t wear makeup to the gym. A fresh, clean face is absolutely acceptable at the gym. If you MUST wear makeup, go for a sheer foundation and light coat of smear-proof mascara. Seriously – that’s all you need.
A Note About Spandex – Yes, spandex is in. And, not just for bikers. Spandex makes a lot of sense if you think about it. It doesn’t get in the way, it’s comfortable and it’s not too revealing. So, don’t worry…you won’t look too 1980′s if you wear spandex. Unless they’re neon green, of course.
Hope this helps! Happy exercising!
