Wearing the proper exercise wear is vital and recommended when training. Keletso Modisakeng shows us how to choose clothing that is comfortable, lightweight, breathable and that will absorb moisture.
Underwear
Comfort is essential when it comes to underwear. Choose one that is designed with no-sew to help prevent irritation and one that stretches to allow easy movement as you work out.
Underwear material
Avoid wearing cotton underwear as this soaks up water and doesn’t allow your skin to breathe. Wear underwear that contains nylon, spandex, elastane as they are comfortable and allow the skin to breathe and absorb the sweat on your skin.
Correct Bra
Your cup size will determine the sports bra you should wear when working out. Your chest has muscles and ligaments known as Cooper’s ligaments which hold up the breasts, give them shape and size. These muscles do not shrink to its original position if stretched. Wearing the correct sport bra will protect, reduce the stress and stretching on your breasts and of course help with the bounce as you work out.
Sports tops
Depending on your workout, your top should be a loose fit to allow movement with ease. Your natural thought may be to wear fewer clothing as possible when working out, to stay cool. However, covering up has more benefits. Wearing a long sleeved top will help keep your muscles and joint warm, which will improve your body’s circulation and function during your workout. This will also help prevent tearing or straining the muscles. Your body will sweat more and this will help burn more calories.
Sports pants
Whether you choose tracksuit pants or shorts, length and fit is an important element for your workout. Loose fit pants usually get in the way of your legs or even exercise equipment. Long pants should not sit lower than your ankles so you don’t trip over them. A comfortable pair of cotton bottoms works best for most workouts. Whichever you decide – shorts, calf-length pants, or long pants – they should be fit right, be comfortable and breathable. Some exercises, such as cycling have specific clothing. Make sure you wear the correct clothing for the sport you’ll be doing.
Shoes
Investing in a pair of quality sports shoes is a must for any form of exercise. For weight training and low impact sports try cross-training, running or walking shoes. When running, you need the best support for your feet. Choose sneakers that are comfy and firm around the ankles and heels to avoid getting blisters or being injured. It’s also advised that shoes with heavy soles and support for the arches work best too. Many sports, such as basketball and soccer, have specific sneakers you should wear so you don’t injure yourself.
Socks
A simple rule to wearing the right socks when exercising is if they’re too thick or thin they could possibly give you blisters. Thin socks tend to slip off the feet, making exercising uncomfortable. Your best choices are all-cotton or cotton blend socks as they fit snuggly and absorb sweat.
Tips
- Your sport bra will fit slightly tighter than a regular bra but it will not press your breasts against your chest.
- The straps should not dig into your shoulders.
- Raise your hand; if the bottom strap moves up against your rib cage, it’s too big for you.
