If you’re looking to get in shape, there are a few things you must first prepare for before you get started. Depending on the type of workout or program you’re planning to do and what your goals are, you’d need to invest in some fitness wear and gear.
Workout clothes are designed specifically to help you perform better and stay comfortable while exercising. The basics include your tops, bottoms, and footwear. While some activities like weight training and running may require specialty accessories like knee wraps and wrist straps.
If you’re a beginner, you might be wondering which clothes you should get. Since the choices can be overwhelming, follow this buying guide to get you on the right track.
Know your options
The first thing you’d want to do is find out what types of workout clothes are there. When you’re shopping online, you can shop by gender, sport, clothing category, and other accessories. To help narrow down your search, it pays to know what sort of workouts you plan to do. What you should wear for yoga could be different from what you should wear for running or strength training. If you have signed up for a program or gym, you can consult them about what types of workout clothes are required or recommended.
Choose clothes according to your needs
The next step is to pin down the items that will fit your specific needs. For example, if you plan to practice yoga, you can load up on comfy leggings, sports bras, and racerback tank tops. In this case, you need well-fitting clothes that allow for freedom of movement. If you’re enrolling in a CrossFit program, you’d want to wear training shorts or tights, breathable tanks, technical wicking socks, and a good pair of trainers. If you plan to run to get in shape during winter, you’d need to have breathable layers and gold-specific gear.
Get your measurements
Nowadays, most people buy their workout clothes online. While this is the most convenient option, there’s a possibility you’d get the wrong size or an item you don’t feel comfortable wearing. To avoid the back and forth, make sure you get your most recent measurements. Keep in mind that there are types of fitness wear that should be just the right fit or slightly smaller, as in the case of climbing shoes and sports bras. Checking each brand’s size guide and reading customer reviews about sizing can help you make more informed choices.
Try them on
If you’re not confident about your online shopping skills, you can get them from the brick-and-mortar store instead. You can visit brand stores or browse through the fitness section of department stores to know your options. Then try on as many items as you can so you’ll know which sizes, colors, and types are good for you. Get a good feel of the fabrics, as well, as these can make a huge difference to your fitness journey.
Check for quality
Wicking fabrics are great options for activewear. If you have the budget for it, opt for high-tech polyester and nylon as these hold up well to heat, sweat, the elements, and heavy use. But if you’re allergic to synthetic fabrics or if you have skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, consider natural, moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo and Merino wool.
They are slightly more expensive but are definitely worth the purchase, knowing that you won’t have any unpleasant reactions while working out. To ensure quality, opt for go-brands like Nike, Under Armour, Champion, Patagonia, and Reebok. You can also explore some reputable brands that offer hypoallergenic and eco-friendly activewear if you have specific needs.
Read customer reviews
Another way to research the quality of workout clothes is by reading customer reviews online. Instead of just taking the brand’s word for it, read through what other people say about each product. If the product has higher ratings and plenty of reviews, it’s usually a good product.
Pick the right color
The color of your activewear matters because colors can influence your mood and mindset. So choosing the right color can make or break your fitness journey. From the color of your yoga mat and tank top to the rug or paint color in your fitness gym or home gym, these factors will affect your attitude. Here are some of the best fitness colors:
- Blue – encourages productivity and concentration, ideal for those looking for long, steady workouts, and has a calming effect.
- Green – represents the natural environment and great outdoors, creates a fresh and invigorating atmosphere, perfect for cycling and running
- Red – the color of boldness and intensity, encourages fitness enthusiasts to go all out and push their limits, great for high-impact exercises and competitive sports
- Pink – encourages rest, ideal for yoga and meditation
Follow these tips to make sure you get the right activewear to support your fitness journey.
