As we hurtle rapidly towards Christmas, many of us are on a last-minute panic and drive to lose a few pounds so we can look great for all of those Christmas parties and events, or so that we have a bit more leeway for the inevitable overindulgence.
However, if you have been off the workout wagon for some time, it can lead to the critical question of what to wear for a workout. For some people, this sounds like something that, as long as you are comfortable and safe, shouldn’t matter, but if you have an interest in fashion, you will still want to look good. Feeling happy and confident in the clothes that you are wearing can give you a huge boost and make you much more likely actually to complete a workout. Here are a few fitness clothing essentials to add to your wardrobe.
Shorts and T-shirts
You need materials that won’t make you feel damp and uncomfortable and are breathable when you sweat. Make sure your shorts are long enough that you don’t get any chafing, but not so long and loose that they get in the way while you are doing your workout.
Hoodies and sweatpants
If you exercise outside or prefer to be a little more covered up, hoodies and sweatpants are the most obvious choice of workout attire. They also have the benefit of being able to layer over the top of your shorts and T-shirt, so when you do start getting a bit hot and sweaty, you can take them off. Make sure that you go for a style that allows you to move freely, fit well and feel comfortable, and definitely don’t go for counterfeit sportswear. Decide if a hoodie that you pull on and off over your head is best for you, or if you’d prefer something with a zip down the middle for easy removal.
Footwear
What you wear on your feet entirely depends on the type of exercise that you are doing. For example, running will need proper running shoes which support your feet properly while being lightweight. Hiking needs functional boots with decent ankle support, and sports like football will need specialist football shoes with studs. Choosing the right footwear for the activity is essential – they need to give you the correct support because if they don’t, you can not only damage your feet but your knees, hips and back. Don’t forget that you need good socks as well – they need to wick moisture away and be breathable.
When you are working out, the very last thing you want to feel is self-conscious and uncomfortable because of what you are wearing, so it is vital to choose the right clothes to exercise in. Kitting yourself out properly means you are much more likely to stay on the fitness wagon and feel great about yourself in the long term.
