Working out is necessary, but are there specific pieces of clothing one should wear? Workout attire can actually provide some much-needed benefits to the daily gym goer. Workout clothes can add support, provide comfort, wick away moisture, add safety, and even trick one’s mind to work out harder. No matter if it’s a sports bra, fitness leggings, or some type of sweat-wicking material, it is important to know the purpose of each one:
1. Sports bra
This type of bra can help a woman hold her breasts in place instead of them flopping everywhere and giving a discomfort feeling. They also reduce the amount of breast pain one might feel from the muscle ligaments moving too rapidly in every direction from working out. Bras made for sports can also reduce long-term sagging and general premature sagging. This type of clothing can be worn instead of actual normal bras because they are easier to put on and can be fashionable.
2. Fitness leggings
Leggings have become popular not just for the gym, but for lounging around at home and using them as pajamas. These types of pants are compact, lightweight, and provide flexibility when working out. They also can give a woman a feeling of confidence by highlighting her curves. It is important to feel good in the gym because that can make one work out harder and gives a nice motivational boost. Leggings have been reported looking good in any shoe type and come in many different styles, colors, and patterns. Best of all, they are affordable.
3. Sweat-wicking tops
These types of tops are made from sweat wicking materials that makes exercising more enjoyable. When someone is working out they have to cool down by sweating. Normal clothing can keep the moisture trapped which prevents the sweat from evaporating quickly. Sweat-wicking tops have certain fibers which allows the sweat to reach the top and evaporate quickly. This type of clothing offers breathability, cooling capabilities, and drying.
4. Sneakers
Wearing the appropriate workout sneaker is vital for safety and function. Having a high-quality sneaker for exercising can protect one’s ankle and foot. What sneaker does that a normal shoe might not do is absorb more shock, and can be more flexible. The type of sneaker someone will need depends on the sport and activity. For example, tennis shoes have a flexible sole that protects the feet from quick side-to-side movements. Another example are flat shoes that are designed for deadlifting because they provide stability.
5. Cycling shorts
Cycling shorts are necessary because they are made up of fast-drying synthetic materials. A few of those sweat wicking materials include nylon, polyester, Lycra, and spandex. Cycling shorts also provide the ability to stretch and compress when needed. The main benefit of the shorts was that it protected the most sensitive parts of the body from long contact with the bicycle seat. A piece of leather, called a chamois, is mostly used to prevent chafing and painful vibrations. Being safe and comfortable during long cycling sessions are why cycling shorts are recommended.