How to Wear Workout Clothes

How to Wear Workout Clothes
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Wearing the right clothes while you work out can mean the difference between an active, effective workout and one that leaves you frustrated and discouraged. Wearing the right workout clothes for the type of exercise you prefer can help you improve your form and concentrate on your routine rather than worry about discomfort, support and excess sweat. Choose workout clothes made from breathable material, and wear the right clothes for the job to improve your workout and increase your fitness level.

Step 1

Purchase workout clothes that are breathable and movable. Restrictive clothing or clothing made from synthetic fabrics is typically less breathable than cotton, linen and high-tech fabrics that help wick away sweat and keep you cool while you work out. Try workout clothes on before you buy them to ensure the proper fit and comfort. Take note of any bothersome stitching, tags or emblems that cannot be altered after purchasing.

Step 2

Look for workout clothes that make you feel good about your body. Having stylish, functional and flattering clothes to work in can help motivate you to hit the gym a little more often. By accentuating your favorite body parts, you can see what you love about your body while working on sculpting and shaping the areas you want to change.

Step 3

Invest in a high-quality sports bra to wear under your workout clothes. Avoid one-size-fits-all types of bras, and instead look for one with adjustable straps in your regular bra size so you can adjust to your ideal size, such as the bras that Lindsey Emery, senior fitness editor for Fitness magazine, suggests. Look for thick straps and comfortable seaming so you feel secure underneath your workout clothes.

Step 4

Wear a sports bra underneath your workout clothes. Although most workout tanks have built-in shelf bras, they typically are not supportive enough to wear without other support. Men should wear their workout clothes without foundation garments other than breathable underwear. Wearing T-shirts or other items layered under workout clothes could affect the fabric's ability to wick away sweat and keep you cool.

Step 5

Wear the right clothes for the right type of fitness. While running or engaging in general fitness, you may want clothes that are looser fitting and comfortable for the most movement. Yoga Journal suggests wearing form-fitting clothes to a yoga class, so your instructor can see your form and correct you if necessary. When biking, you'll also need form-fitting clothes to avoid catching fabric in the mechanics of the bike.

Step 6

Wash your fitness clothes properly after each workout session. Because so many workout clothes are made from high-tech, breathable fabrics, it's important that you read the instructions on the tag to ensure that you're washing them on the correct cycle and drying them properly. By washing and caring for your workout clothes as recommended, you can ensure that they'll last longer.

References

Article reviewed by Samantha Davidson Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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