What to Wear to the Gym

What to Wear to the Gym

Gym wear should keep you comfortable and supported. Depending on what type of exercise you plan to do, you may also need some gym clothing that has stretch, and is resistant to intense movements. Clothing can make or break a workout, and with the correct gym gear you can enhance your performance and exercise better. Don’t worry if you don’t know where to start with gym clothing. Whether you’re a complete beginner at the gym, or an experienced fitness enthusiast, our guide will help you get ready for the next chapter of your fitness journey. 

What should I wear to the gym as a beginner?

As a beginner whilst you’re getting into the swing of things, you want to find clothes that are comfortable and flexible. Cotton is a popular option, but it tends to hold moisture and become heavy as you sweat. Though the chances are, if you’re a total beginner your workouts will be shorter at first, so a t-shirt and gym shorts might be okay until you start more intense workouts.

However, if you want to start off right, you should look at wearing clothes made of synthetic materials such as nylon. These materials offer a good amount of comfort as they’re flexible and moisture-wicking, which will make your workout more enjoyable. While most gym-goers are aware of this already, many still forget that the same principle applies to socks. The preferred alternative to everyday cotton socks, an acrylic blend is often best to keep blisters away and ensure your feet can breathe.

Next, a good pair of gym shoes will make all the difference. If you’re going to be doing a lot of running, invest in some comfortable running shoes, which are also great for cardio based classes and general training at the gym. If you plan to lift weights or partake in other forms of non-cardio based training, make sure your shoes are comfortable and have a good grip.

Women’s Gym Clothing

Gym clothing is frequently gendered, sometimes this is for aesthetic purposes to make people feel more comfortable with their appearance at the gym. However, most of the time it is a functional choice. This includes essential items such as the sports bra.

Sports Bras

Choosing a supportive sports bra is imperative as this can help reduce injury or discomfort to the torso area by reducing movement. Additionally, the sports bra should have moisture-wicking technology to keep sweat and odour at bay.

Gym Leggings

Other items include exercise leggings, gym leggingsare a popular option for women as they provide support where needed and are more comfortable in terms of flexibility and material. Gym leggings have no excess fabric to create excessive movement, and the elastication makes them a snug yet comfortable fit for intense workouts. They also work to quickly wick-away moisture to avoid discomfort caused by sweat.

Fitted T-Shirts

Fitted shirts or gym tops are also a great choice for many women as this gives a better range of movement due to less excess fabric, which can help prevent chafing. Though they aren’t necessary, if you prefer a more oversized fit or a less figure-highlighting tee. Just be sure to pick a breathable material.

Men’s Gym Clothing

As with women’s clothing there are also some functional pieces for men that you may want to consider. Such as breathable and lightweight shorts.

Men’s shorts

Men’s shorts should allow for ventilation and ease of movement to enhance performance. These types of shorts are the best option for most training exercises at the gym. Contrarily, compression shorts are also good, when used for certain exercises such as cycling to reduce risk of chafing. Shorts with an elasticated waistband and hidden drawcord are the best option, as they can be easily adjusted and won’t fall down.

Men’s gym trousers

Many men find the tight fit nature of leggings uncomfortable, even the lightweight ones that are overlaid with running shorts. If shorts aren’t what you need, consider tracksuit bottoms. Look for gym trousers which are made from comfortable quick-dry fabric with a tapered fit, as this will allow you to move freely whilst keeping moisture away from your skin. Those with side zipped pockets are also a great option for a range of exercises from weight lifting to running. 

Gym tops

It’s a good idea to stock up on a range of gym tops made from synthetic materials. Men’s gym tops are available in a loose or fitted fit, depending on your preference. As long as the material is breathable and able to keep moisture at bay, the fit is up to you. Avec Sport offers men’s gym tops in a range of colours with both long sleeved and short sleeved options available, so that you can be prepared for any workout.

Unisex Items

Of course, there are some items that everyone should consider when thinking about what to wear to the gym. From essentials such as socks, to accessories to aid you in your workout. 

Socks

As mentioned earlier, sock choice is important to avoid getting blisters or excess moisture. Socks should have added support to cushion the arch of your foot when doing cardio exercising such as running. Additionally, it’s best to use long socks with an elasticated band to avoid them falling down whilst running.

Hoodies & Jackets

Hoodies and Jackets are a great addition to your sporting wardrobe because they can be used during gentler workouts, colder days, or for travelling to and from the gym. They usually contain zipped pockets to keep your belongings too, so if you need to take it off you don’t have to worry about where to put your items.

Gym Bags

A gym bag is extremely useful when carrying around gym gear, especially if you’re bringing towels and clothes to use the shower facilities at your gym. They’re also handy if you want to store a water bottle or accessories to enhance your workout such as shakers, grip chalk, belts and gloves. Usually made of synthetic materials, they’re good at keeping odours in and moisture out. 

Gloves & Supports

If you want to practise weight lifting, gloves and supports will be very helpful. Not only do they enhance your grip, but they can also reduce conditions such as calluses forming and damage to your skin. Supports will aid your workout and help to prevent damage to muscles and joints.

Get ready to hit the gym with Avec Sport

Now that you have an idea of what to wear to the gym, you can start to stock your workout wardrobe with essential items to start off your fitness journey. Browse the full range of men’s sportswear, women’s sportswear, accessories, and more at Avec Sport, or head straight to our full gym wear collection to discover everything you’ll need in one place.