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It's a new year, and chances are one of the things you've promised yourself is that THIS year, you will exercise more. Whether you've committed to training for a marathon or taking a daily walk around the block, having the right workout clothes can make it easier to stay committed to an exercise routine.
Let's start with what NOT to wear to work out: gigantic over-sized anything. Our default when we know we're going to sweat is typically to put on the most worn out, ill-fitting casual pieces we own. But if the goal of exercising is to feel good in your body, why wear clothes that make you feel big and frumpy when you ARE exercising? Instead, choose pieces that fit properly and that allow you to move freely and easily.
As with every other wardrobe choice, the first step is to get a really great bra. The Women's Sports Foundation offers some terrific advice about how to fit a sports bra.
What are the features of a supportive sports bra?
* Smart seam placement - not over your nipples
* Wide non-elastic shoulder straps
* Breathable, wicking fabrics (Coolmax,etc...)
* Ample armholes
* Covered hooks or fasteners (if present)
* Little vertical stretch compared with horizontal stretch
* A supportive chest band underneath the breasts
They also suggest that you take the "jump test" in the dressing room, which is just what it sounds like: put the bra on and jump up and down. Your breasts should not come flying up into your face; if they do, you need a different bra.
Remember that as you work out and lose weight or change your shape, you will need to change your bra. Assess your workout bra at least every six months, to be sure that you are still wearing the right size. And toss your sports bra when it starts to wear out.
What do you wear over your fabulous sports bra? That depends both on what kind of exercise you're doing and on what you are most comfortable wearing. A simple tee is perfect, as long as it fits; shoulder seams should hit at your shoulders, and the hem should be no longer than your hip. An over-sized tee might seem like a good idea, particularly if you are exercising to loose weight, but a tent-sized top will both get in your way and make you feel even bigger than you are.
C19 by Champion tank, $16.99
Be sure that any top you choose is appropriate for your workout. A basic tee may be perfect for walking or running, but a yoga class may require something more fitted, so that your top doesn't flop over your head during that Downward Dog. Look also for fabrics that wick moisture, particularly if your gym is hot, or if you are running or walking in a warm climate. Look for bright colors and cheery prints -- if your exercise gear is pretty and inspiring, it will make it that much easier to get motivated to put it on and go work out.
Choose bottoms with enough room to move comfortably in but don't go for saggy, baggy sweats. Draw-string or elastic waist yoga pants, with a wide cut, are comfortable and flattering, and are perfect for walking or yoga. For any type of exercise that will involve waving your legs in the air over your head (Pilates, for example) think about bottoms with a slimmer cut, something that will stay in place when you point your toes at the ceiling. Because no one wants to see your underwear, ever. Trust me.
Take good care of your workout wear; wash regularly in cold water and gentle soap, and line dry whenever possible. Replace your workout clothes when they start to wear, or when they start to bag. Don't continue to wear too-big yoga pants just because they're there; celebrate changes to your shape by investing in new exercise clothes.
Ready to shop?
Activa has a nice selection of workout basics.
Gaiam carries terrific yoga wear, including graphic tees that benefit Doctors Without Boarders and Heifer International.
And don't forget Target. I like the C19 by Champion line because, unlike many other
