Pop in an aerobics video from 20 years ago and you will be amazed at how far sports wear has come in recent years. Mixing thong leotards with tights and T-shirts with bike or soccer shorts is no longer sufficient to meet the demands of specialized workouts.
Today's manufacturers are placing more emphasis on function and comfort. Many of the materials claim to keep you cool and, in some cases, odor-free. According to medicinenet.com, the clothes you choose to wear while working out can keep you motivated, give you confidence and even improve your performance.
What to Look for
Allowing the arms to reach their full range of motion is important to weight lifters. Sleeveless T-shirts made from cotton or moisture wicking materials for those who sweat more are available in a variety of styles.
Clothes that allow ease of movement work best for yoga and Pilates classes. According to Yoga Journal, fitted styles (but not too tight) work best since many of the movements performed in these classes involve bending over and sometimes inverted (upside down) positions. You want to be able to concentrate on the exercises rather than worry if your oversized T-shirt is bunching up or flashing other participants.
Almost any sports apparel can be worn during boxing and kickboxing workouts, as long as the knees can move freely. Some manufacturers offer a line of "cardio combat" pants with seams in the knees to make kicking easier.
Due to intensity and over-crowding, aerobics classes tend to get very warm. Moisture wicking materials in ventilated styles can help keep you cool.
Workouts that require more repetitive motion, such as treadmills, ellipticals and stair machines, can cause rubbing. To avoid painful skin irritation, try to wear seamless clothing, especially sports bras. Low-waisted fitted shorts work well for biking to avoid rubbing of the thighs while pedaling and chafing of the waistband while leaning forward.
Common Pitfalls
Be wary of materials. Garments, including underwear, made from 100 percent cotton tend to get wet quickly and stay wet. This will make you uncomfortable and likely to cut your workout short.
If you choose to wear longer bottoms rather than shorts or cropped pants, make sure they are not too long. You don't want to trip while doing a step class or get caught in one of the machines.
Avoid polyester, rubberized or plastic suits, sweatshirts and sweat pants. Some people think they will lose weight quicker because these materials cause you to sweat more. But the weight you lose will be quickly replaced as soon as you drink fluids again. Since your body will naturally warm up as you exercise, you want to choose styles and materials that will keep you cool to avoid overheating.
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