Wearing the right clothing
can make the difference between an enjoyable workout and an hour of misery. And
investing in some stylish yet comfortable workout clothing is the perfect
motivation to get you moving, whether you’re hitting the gym, heading for the
hills or exercising in the comfort of your own home.
Technical or performance
fabrics are usually made of polyester and/or Lycra blends. They may cost more
than your average cotton T-shirt, but they'll also last longer and keep you
comfortable.
Cotton is comfortable, but
the more you sweat during exercise, the more perspiration it traps, weighing
down your garment and clinging to your skin.
In summer, that can prevent
your body from cooling properly. In winter, wearing those damp clothes for a
workout keeps you cold. Add a cold wind to the equation, and you'll be chilled
to the bone, just as I was.
Cotton socks can also trap
moisture and cause blisters, while a polyester-blend sock may help prevent
them. Shorts, gloves, hats, running tights, sports bras, workout pants—even
underwear—are also available in performance fabrics.
Five things to consider
while buying a Gym cloth:
Comfort
Choose materials that let
you move and don’t constrict you. Pay closer attention to fit than size, as
some workout clothes tend to be smaller and more form fitting than regular
clothes. Avoid skin-tight.
Perfect fit
If you feel good about
yourself, you’ll be inclined to exercise more often. Clothing trends change for
workout wear too, but the basics never go out of style.
Layerable
Your workout wardrobe
should be versatile, carrying you from the hottest months to the coldest months
Layering is done as:
• Start with a moisture-wicking dry layer, such as a wicking
T-shirt or tank top,
• then add a warmer layer such as a fleece pullover.
• Finish with a protective outer layer (for waterproofing and
wind proofing) such as a windbreaker or a nylon shell.
Technologically advanced
Many new workout pieces
feature anti-microbial treatments to combat odor, while others have built-in
ultra-violet protection to fight the sun’s harmful rays. You can also buy
glow-in-the-dark or luminescent jackets and running pants to help keep you
visible if you exercise after dark. If you are a hiker concerned about Lyme
disease, look for clothing that contains permethrin, a synthetic version of the
natural insect repellent found in chrysanthemums.
Activity appropriate
Baggy pants aren't feasible
for cycling or Spinning, and flowing tops won't keep you covered when you do
downward dog in yoga class. Consider the activities you do most, and make sure
the clothes you buy are comfortable and appropriate for that activity.
Express delivery and another
add-on for my gym section.
