Tips on What to Wear to the Gym as an Overweight Pear Shape

Ok, so you're hoping that this article will offer something a bit more helpful than "just cover it up until you lose it all." We all want to look and feel our best when we're out and about, and that includes when we hit the gym. After all, for most of us going to the gym is an experience that needs all the fun we can squeeze into it. Hoping to wear something a bit more flattering than a t-shirt and sweat pants but aren't sure how to maximize that curvy shape? Check out the following tips on what to wear to the gym as an overweight pear shape.

Tip #1: Re-think longer lengths. Sure, you may be trying to hide those thighs, but the truth is that wearing fabric that is too bulky over a problem area can actually attract attention rather than minimize the issue. Instead, try a more flattering shorter length when it comes to gym shorts, and wear a pair of slimming biker shorts beneath those for extra coverage and support.

Tip #2: Replace spaghetti strings with tank tops. While spaghetti string tops may be a great way to show off those slim shoulders, they are actually doing the rest of your body an injustice. Wider straps will help offset those wider hips, making your body appear better proportioned.

Tip #3: Opt for drawstrings. A drawstring around the waist allows the pear shaped woman to adjust the fit of her clothing around her most critical region. Traditional gym shorts and pants with spandex linings tend to pinch and create an otherwise non-existent muffin top. Choose looser designs that give you control around the hips and waist.

Tip #4: Add a jacket...around your waist. A jacket around the waist lets your thinner lower thighs take on the attention. Just be sure that jacket isn't too bulky, and that it doesn't add too much excess fabric to the backside. Tie it low on the hips.

Tip #5: Choose a sports bra that lifts. Pear shapes often dread the flattening affect of a traditional sports bra because it tends to make their figures appear even more disproportionate. Even things out a bit with a bra that offers separation, and perhaps even a wireless lift.

Tip #6: Stick with ankle socks. When pairing gym shorts with traditional crew socks, the body appears cut off at the middle of the shin. Pear shapes look best when their outfits add as much leg length as possible, so stick with socks that won't cut off the inches visually where they count the most.

Tip #7: Layer up on top. Wearing two thin tank tops (or something similar) gives the body proportion when thicker gym shorts or pants are being worn over the hips and thighs. Wear two contrasting colors for extra definition.

Tip #8: Shop for longer t's and tops. Choose gym tops that skim the hips to add length to the torso and even out the body. Do be careful not to go too long, however, or the leg length will be shortened. An inch longer than the average gym shirt will be sufficient.

Keep in mind that looking and feeling great at the gym before you lose the weight, especially as a pear shape, is entirely possible with a bit of strategy. Keep the above tips in mind before you hit the treadmill again, and resist the urge to don anything that doesn't highlight your best features when you're busy shedding the pounds.