According to the CDC, 60% of women aren’t getting enough exercise and 25% of women aren’t exercising at all. Overall, women are less likely to workout than men.
Do workout clothes play a role in this discrepancy? It’s quite possible that there are women out there who want to work out, but are discouraged by workout clothes that don’t make them feel comfortable.
If this rings a bell, you’ve come to the right place.
Read on to learn more about what to wear when working out that will keep you comfortable and on track to achieve your goals.
Choosing Materials
When it comes to workout clothes, the material you choose will go a long way towards making you feel comfortable. Whether your goal is to get through 30 minutes of high-intensity cardio or an hour of yin yoga, you need to wear a fabric that breathes.
Before you pick up cotton tees and leggings, remember that cotton, while light and airy, tends to hold sweat. By the end of your exercise routine, your cotton get-up may feel damp and heavy. That’s because cotton absorbs moisture without releasing it.
What you want to find are fabrics that have high wicking capabilities. Wicking is the process of pulling moisture away from your body so that it evaporates from both your skin and the wicking material. This will help you feel cooler, lighter, and less damp.
Bamboo is one of our favorite wicking fabrics, although it is on the pricier side. Nylon and polyester also have great wicking capabilities, although you’ll want to look for a looser knit to retain breathability and stretch.
Choosing Styles and Cuts
Take a look at this inspirational workout gear. Notice the mix of fitted and loose clothing. (Notice, too, how cute those patterns are!)
Some women prefer exercising in sports bras and jogging shorts while others prefer fitted tees and leggings. There is no right or wrong answer, here. The most important thing is to find a style of workout clothing that suits your routine and your comfort level.
The only time a tighter fit is absolutely necessary is when loose clothing is a safety hazard. For example, bikers and even joggers shouldn’t wear loose or baggy pants because that excess material can get caught in their bike chain or underfoot. That being said, we recommend ditching the sweatpants for something a little more form-fitting, even if it’s not skintight.
Stretchy, form-fitting workout clothes move with you. They allow you to observe your body as you work out, which means that you can take stock of your form and your progress. Plus, baggier clothes send a message to your brain that you’re trying to hide your body when what we want is for you to celebrate your body!
Know What to Wear When Working Out and Exercise with Confidence
Are you one of the 60% of women who don’t get enough exercise? Knowing what to wear when working out is one of the first major steps towards exercising with confidence and sticking to a routine!
For more tips on what to wear in the gym, on the town, and in the boardroom, check out the rest of our fashion-forward content.
