CHOOSING THE RIGHT WORKOUT GEAR


PC: POPSUGAR


When you make the decision to get started on an exercise plan, it is important that you pay attention to your workout gear. Workout gears are your- clothes, shoes and accessories. Not only should your workout gear keep you comfortable, but while it should also allow your body to have the right range of motion so that you can perform each exercise fully and safely.

When it comes to choosing the right workout gear, it can be hard to know where to start. With fashion trends and seasonal weather, the fitness fashion industry seems to be constantly changing. We should focus less on fashion and more on comfort and fit.

Here are few points you need to keep in mind while selecting your workout gear:


1. Pick form-fitting over tight fitting clothes


There’s a thin line between form fitting and tight fitting clothes. In simple words, form-fitting clothes fit your body closely. Whereas, tight fitting clothes rarely gives you a chance to breathe. When we first start our workout routine, we like to slip into something comfortable. Clothing that is too tight will make you uncomfortable and can also restrict your movements by limiting the range of motion. It will actually make you less motivated to actually work out. 
It’s best to choose form-fitting clothes that will move with your body and keep you comfortable. A slightly loose fit is also a good option as long as it doesn’t drape too far off your body. It allows you to focus more on your workouts rather than adjusting it all the time.

2. Consider the fabric
Does fabric matters? You just need something which is comfortable and form fitted, right? Guess what, choosing the right fabric is as important as choosing the right wedding ring. You need to choose a fabric that will easily allow your skin to breathe by drawing the sweat away from your skin – this is called wicking. Fabrics that are known for wicking are Polyester, Spandex, and Lycra.

Something like 100% cotton workout gear may seem like a soft and comfortable choice, but you need to avoid wearing this fabric to the gym. Cotton absorbs moisture and doesn’t dry quickly, so your sweat will literally stick with you. It works well for light workouts, such as walking or stretching, it doesn’t work well for more intense activities. It can become heavier, cause chills, skin irritations, breakouts, and cause friction in chafe-prone areas. Choose clothes made of dry-fit or moisture wicking material (like polyester, spandex and lycra) that will keep you nice and dry instead.

3. Right outfit for specific activity
An appropriate outfit for your preferred physical activity is of utmost importance. Different workouts call for different clothes. You can’t wear same clothes if you practice yoga and are also involved in intense workout session. So, think about the kind of exercises you’ll be doing before you put your outfit together. Tailor your attire to the specific activity you choose.

4. Choose the right footwear
The right pair of workout shoes can either make or break a workout. Every pair of shoes has their unique offering. Your level of activity and what you plan to do with the shoe will help to determine which shoe is right for you. There are specific shoes designed for running, walking, hiking, weightlifting, biking, and other activities. Invest in shoes which you can carry in multi-activities.  Look for shoes that are form fitting on the sides of your feet, but have an extra inch of room between the end of your big toe and the front of your shoe. The top of the shoes should not feel as though they are pressing down on the tops of your feet, and there should be no pain anywhere on your feet and ankles when you walk, run or jump.

5. Choose the right accessories
Whether it’s your gym gloves, wrist bands, gym bottles or any other stuff choose quality over price. Choose right fitting gloves that support hand and wrist during physical training. The gloves should feel natural as well as supportive to hands for allowing you to maintain proper position of wrist and palm while training. Opt for a good all natural light fragranced deodorant. And most importantly go for small wireless headphones rather than those big earphones or the one with crumbled wires, which you have to keep adjusting all the time.
The important thing is pick the accessory as per your need. You don’t need to go for something just because it’s in trend and everyone is carrying it. Many of us don’t like carrying too many unnecessary things while working out, which is fine. Most of the accessories are optional; choose as per your convenience.



You should understand that, the top priority is your health, wellness, and fitness. So, when it comes to choosing the right workout gear, what you’re wearing can be a huge benefit to your body and it can bring a change in your workout.

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