Style shouldn't be your first priority when you dress for the gym -- but workout clothing shouldn't be so uncomfortable that you dread putting it on. Although a simple T-shirt and shorts or pants is more than adequate for most workouts, putting a little thought into your wardrobe selection can help you strike a balance between comfort, functionality and a flattering-enough fit that you feel good about yourself.
Undergarments
You could, in theory, work out naked beneath your gym clothes. But most women choose to wear a sports bra of some sort. This supportive garment reduces uncomfortable breast bounce and limits stress on the Cooper's ligaments, which support the breasts. Men may or may not choose to wear a jockstrap for high-impact sports, and if your workout involves anything even remotely resembling body contact, a protective cup helps reduce damage from unintentional blows.
Hygiene
Feel free to work out in your underwear at home. But most people in the gym probably don't want to see your underclothing, and the more skin you leave exposed, the more sweat you drip on any equipment you use. More exposed skin also means more surface area in contact with the sweat and germs other people leave behind. So choosing appropriately modest workout clothing isn't just a style consideration, it also encourages proper hygiene.
Materials
Cotton breathes naturally, allowing air flow to keep your skin cool and dry. But cotton can become soggy from sweat or from moisture if you exercise outside. Polyester fabrics treated to wick moisture away from your skin can help keep you comfortable and dry, and reduce chafing. Some wicking fabrics also have antimicrobial treatments worked into the fabric to help reduce body odor.
If you exercise outside, cotton is appropriate for hot weather. But in cold weather, avoid cotton and dress in several layers of wool or other wicking fabrics so you can fine-tune your insulation according to your activity level.
Fit
The best workout clothing will move freely with your body. Try the clothing on and simulate your favorite workout moves such as deep squats, jumping jacks or yoga poses. Pay attention to whether the garment binds around your joints, slips out of place to reveal too much skin or if the seams chafe.
Sport Specific
Certain types of clothing may be accepted or even expected in specific sporting environments. For example, plan to wear padded bicycle shorts if you attend a stationary cycling class. High-impact sports bras are a must for running workouts, and more form-fitting clothing, such as yoga pants or shorts and a fitted top, is expected during yoga class so that the instructor can easily see and correct your body posture.
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