During a workout, nothing feels worse than ill-fitting workout clothes. Leggings that won’t stay up, a sports bra that won’t stop chaffing your shoulder, and a shirt that doesn’t wick off moisture are all things I’m sure you have encountered before. Those problems are extremely uncomfortable and they can make you not want to work out at all.
Another thing about workout clothes is we of course want to (try) and look cute in them. Athletic wear has come a long way over the years. Such a long way that we have a whole new style genre: Athleisure
Gone are the days of looking blah working out, but you still want to make sure the workout clothes you’re wearing are not only cute, but practical as well. Just because they’re cute, doesn’t mean they were made for the workout you’re trying to do.
Below are a few things you should consider if you’re on the hunt for new workout clothes:
Are They Suitable for Your Workout of Choice?
I’ll never forget the time I took a 90-minute hot yoga class and wore cotton workout attire. Terrible idea! It was my first time doing a hot yoga class, so I simply didn’t know any better.
My cotton leggings and cotton tank top would have been fine in a hatha yoga class or at home with a YouTube video, but they definitely weren’t okay for a hot yoga class.
If you’re going to be doing a workout where heavy sweating will likely be involved, workout clothes that wick off moisture will be important. Besides hot yoga, other examples are spinning, running, and kickboxing. Girl…you will sweat!
You also want to make sure you’re wearing something form fitting if you’re going to be sweating heavily.
Do They Fit Right?
Fit matters. Sometimes you may try it on in-store and feel great, but once that workout starts, the discomfort begins. When trying on workout clothes, don’t be shy about doing a 10-20 second jog around the dressing room area. Even running in place and doing a few yoga poses in the privacy of your dressing room is better than nothing.
This will help you notice any issues such as an ill-fitting sports bra that chafes, a sports bra that doesn’t give enough support, or leggings that roll down with activity. And don’t forget to do the bend test! The last thing you want is a pair of workout leggings that are see-through. *Cough* Lululemon *Cough*
How your sneakers fit matter as well. They need to be supportive; otherwise you risk injury and foot pain. Especially if running is your workout of choice.
When buying running sneakers, make sure you give those a test run as well. Many high-end sneaker shops have a treadmill where you can test out sneakers before you purchase them. You also shouldn’t bargain shop too much when it comes to sneakers. You definitely get what you pay for with most running sneakers. Believe me, the last thing you want is an injury because you were trying to save money. Been there, done that.
Are They Your Style?
Just because you found workout clothes that check off all the boxes when it comes to practicality, doesn’t mean they are your style. Be patient, it’s okay to shop around. You’ll like your workouts so much more if you’re comfortable in your workout attire and you feel cute and stylish.
Don’t you just envy the women that look super stylish before and after their workouts? That can be you, too! I personally love the workout attire at both Old Navy and Fabletics (when I’m in a position to splurge).
Don’t forget those workout accessories! Stylish hats and cropped sweatshirts can hide your sweaty hair and tanks so you can look just as fashionable after your workout as before.
Need some workout style inspiration? Check out these fun looks below!
What are your favorite athletic wear brands? Let us know in the comments below!
