Working out should be an important part of your daily routine, but finding the right clothes to workout in is just as important as the physical exercise. What are the requirements for good gym clothes?
You want something that is practical and won't restrict your movement, but at the same time you also want to look stylish (don't worry, we're all guilty of it). Below are four things that you need from your gym clothes
The Right Fit
One of the easiest ways to ensure that you look pulled together at gym is to wear clothing that is the right fit, and that means avoiding everything that is oversized because this looks sloppy. Don't wear overly bagging T-shirts, pants with holes in them, or anything covered in stains. And avoid shoes that are dirty and worn (to the point where they need to be sent to shoe heaven, ASAP). Aside from not looking good, clothing that is oversized can actually be dangerous because it can get snagged on the equipment.
You also want to be able to work out in clothes that don't restrict your movement. The sleeves of your tops and the area around the shoulders should have enough room for lifting and flexing. While bottoms with elastic bands around the waist tend to be the most versatile and comfortable fit.
Quality Fabric
Emphasis should also be placed on the quality of the fabrics. You should wear clothing that is lightweight and moisture wicking — specifically designed to draw sweat droplets away from the skin. Avoid 100 percent cotton fabrics and those that don't breathe, and instead opt for synthetic fabrics that "wick" sweat away from your body.
Remember that if your workout clothes start to smell, even after you've washed them, it's time to ditch them.
Don't Forget Footwear
It's important to choose workout shoes that offer support and have cushioning for your feet as this can offer more stability and help reduce the risk of injury. But the type of exercise you plan on doing also impacts your footwear choice: If you're running you want something that's comfortable and light, if you're doing weights you need shoes that have ankle and arch support, and if you're doing high-intensity cardio then it's best to choose shoes that have protection for both the feet and legs.
Monochromatic Wardrobe
While your gym outfits do not need to look like they came straight off the runway, sticking to a monochromatic wardrobe can help you to look neat and chic. So, limit the colors you wear to solid, neutral tones!
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