The basics of workout clothing

Whether you're in the gym or doing outdoor activities, you should be appropriately dressed. Although that sounds like common sense there are times that I notice the unusual clothing worn in the gym. Granted, not everyone owns specific workout clothing but there are some unsaid rules to keep in mind. Gym clothing is meant to protect you during activities by keeping you cool, protected from the sun, or by keeping sweat out of your eyes. Choose items that serve their purpose and also keep you comfortable.

Ditch the lace bra

Lace bras are sexy but offer limited support during exercise. I prefer to wear a high-impact sports bra for all workouts but lighter versions are available to accommodate your needs. There are low, medium and heavy impact bras as well as underwire styles. Choose a sports bra that fits well and has the correct impact level for your activities. A light impact sports bra for weight training is ample but would not be for an aerobics class. If you just had a baby or pregnant; it's extremely important to wear the proper sports bra because of the weight of your breasts. Choose a high-impact bra and wear two if necessary or a regular bra with a sports bra over it.

You need more than comfortable shoes

Your shoes help protect your body from heavy impact so purchase your shoes wisely. You might wonder how different can a shoe be but there are big differences. Specific shoes are made for running, cross training, aerobics, swimming and more so choose your shoes according to your activities. For instance, will you be playing outdoors with your children or running a 5k marathon? Maybe you're unsure of how to choose a shoe? In that case, there are several athletic shoe stores that do foot tests. The test will determine your arch height and whether you're an under, over or normal pronator.

Shorts, pants and everything between

Although not often, I have seen people work out in jeans. There aren't always rules against wearing jeans in the gym but it's not recommended. Jeans are heavy and hot and can cause your body temperature to rise drastically. Choose shorts, capris or breathable pants instead. Cotton is the best choice for workout bottoms and combinations with spandex or lycra will keep its shape longer. Skorts are also popular and retailers carry a multitude of brands, colors and styles.

Tanks or T-shirts. Which one are you?

Do you prefer to wear a tank top or T-shirt? I prefer tanks because I don't like the feeling of damp material in the underarm area. I also have broad shoulders and the average T-shirt will fit my body but not my shoulders. You may be in the same position or you might choose a T-shirt because you're not quite confident with your arms yet. Regardless, comfort is key. Cotton choices with spandex and lycra are good but stay away from cotton and polyester combos. Polyester does not breathe well and is very hot for fitness activities. Also, choose a shirt that fits properly. It does not need to be form fitting or clingy but shouldn't hang to your knees. Shirts that are too big get in the way of certain movements and exercises.

Accessories for the gym

Accessories play an important role when working out. Each accessory does something specific and is worn for that reason. Here are some examples. Head bands will keep sweat out of your eyes. A towel will wipe off sweat or clean a machine. Your gloves will protect your hands during weight lifting. Your hat will keep sweat off your brow and the sun out of your eyes. Each accessory is accountable for something so take note of that when you choose what to wear. Although it isn't necessary to have many accessories, there are a few that outweigh others depending on your exercises and you'll want to have those first.

Source:Experience