Buying and planning the perfect gym outfit is an enjoyable activity for many people; however, it’s not just for fashion purposes. Wearing proper gym attire can improve the quality of your workout by providing many benefits to your body. Athletic clothing is meant to support the body during physical activity, not hold it back. Wearing the proper clothing can allow the body to move freely without restrictions. While shopping for athletic clothing is exciting and fun from a fashion standpoint, it’s also important to consider the type of clothes you buy to have a fashionable yet optimized workout. Let’s get into some important ways your outfit can enhance your workout’s quality.
Believe it or not, the clothing you wear while working out can prevent injuries. Choosing proper footwear can prevent blisters, shin splints and tight calves from forming while running or weightlifting. Compression clothing increases blood flow and circulation to the heart, allowing muscles to receive more oxygen and protection from becoming strained or fatigued. Compression wear can also reduce the pain of a pulled muscle, and the amount of time it takes to heal. Proprioception is conscious awareness of the body and limbs’ positioning, motion and equilibrium. Proprioception can improve by wearing compression garments which can prevent injuries from occurring by becoming more aware of your range of motion.
Proper gym attire can also regulate and control body temperature. Light and breathable materials work to draw moisture away from your body. As moisture is drawn away, a cooling sensation makes you feel dry and comfortable, ensuring you won’t overheat. When choosing your gym outfit, it is recommended to avoid cotton at all costs and select moisture-wicking fabrics such as Dri-FIT, COOLMAX or Supplex. Skin health can also improve by regulating and controlling body temperature while working out. By drawing moisture away from your body, clogged sweat glands can be prevented, reducing the risk of rashes or other skin conditions.
Dressing for success isn’t just relevant for a job. The way you dress for the gym can improve your performance and success. Wearing comfortable, thin and properly fit clothing allows the body to move with no restrictions, allowing a better performance during intense training. Clothing that is too loose or tight can become a distraction causing you to continuously adjust your clothes to a comfortable position before resuming your workout. A survey showed that nine out of ten people felt that performance-based wear helped them push themselves harder because when you dress for success, you can reach your full potential.
These are a few of my go-to brands if you aren’t sure where to find fashionable yet suitable workout clothes. Gymshark and Lululemon are two of the best athletic brands for buying compression wear. Gymshark clothing has just the right amount of compression, allowing it to fit in all of the right places properly. With the right fit, you have the capability to move without any restrictions. My favorite product at Lululemon is the Define Jacket, a compression zip-up that is flattering and perfect during fall and winter. Alphalete clothing has thin, breathable and comfortable materials that help you stay cool during workouts and improve performance. Nike offers running sneakers with breathable technology which can prevent your feet from overheating.
Many people may consider gym attire an unnecessary expense, but wearing proper athletic clothing is about more than just looking good, as it can enhance performance and help you have a better experience. For more fashionable yet quality-boosting gym attire, click here.