Attending a group fitness class as a first-timer can leave you pondering over the perfect attire. Do you dress for comfort, agility, climate... or style?
Clue: screw the style. You're here to get fit, not flaunt your fashion.
What to wear for your fitness class depends on the type of class you're taking, and how you'll need to feel to get the most out of it. Here are some tips for creating the ideal workout outfit so you're ready for the gym or studio.
HIIT Class Wear
High-intensity workouts involve plenty of movement and a lot of sweat. These workouts are designed to push your body to its limits. With this in mind it's best to opt for leisure wear that fits the body, yet allows it to breathe.
Leggings or workout tights offer great freedom to move. They are perfect for maneuvers such as bear crawls and squats.
Shorts will keep you cool, but go for a tighter fit to prevent them from riding up. The last thing you want is friction burns!
For the torso, vests with loose-fitting arms will allow you to move quickly, whilst keeping your arms unrestricted.
Ladies - invest in a good sports bra to prevent back pain or discomfort whilst running, jumping and perfecting those burpees!
On the feet, choose a supportive shoe with plenty of bounce and shock-absorbing soles. You'll want to feel that your ankles are well-supported and that your feet are flexible. If needed, you can purchase soles separately from your shoe to ensure you have ample foot support.
Holistic Class Wear
Holistic fitness classes require flexible clothing for fluid movements, allowing you to stretch and contort your body into various positions.
Choose a top that fits snugly, made from lightweight, breathable fabric. Loose tops will just drape over your head during a downward dog, or restrict your movements during stretches. If you prefer tops that don't cling to your body, choose something loose at the top. Look for a fitted hemline to prevent it from riding up.
Check how your bottoms stretch! Thin fabrics can go very sheer when stretched into a yoga pose. Check out your behind before you hit the studio to avoid any embarrassing underwear reveals!
Muscle tank tops, racerback vests or fitted t-shirts are great for yoga, pilates and martial arts classes.
On the feet, wear socks with small grips which will allow you to smoothly glide, without falling. Or a lightweight shoe that allows the feet to move easily.
Cycle Class Wear
When cycling, you'll want to wear gear that fits close to the body. Nobody wants to be dealing with dangling joggers around the pedals. Think leggings or fitted shorts that won't ride up throughout your class.
Grab a sweatband to keep those pesky drips out of your eyes whilst you get your spin on.
And choose footwear that supports the ankles, with a good grip to avoid pedal slip!
Dance Class Wear
For dancing, choose lightweight fabrics that allow you to move freely. Tight tops will restrict your arms, so choose something with a larger armhole or dropped armpit for maximum movement.
You'll get a sweat on, so anything made from cotton, mesh or lightweight wear designed to absorb sweat is perfect.
Choose shoes with maximum support, preferably without laces, otherwise, tie those bad boys well out of the way - you can even tuck them into the sides of your shoes to stop them dangling freely.
Aerobics Class Wear
Aerobics classes make you sweat and are designed to push your body, so wear breathable clothes. It is also best to avoid loose ones that might get in the way of your workout.
Lose the accessories. You don't want that necklace or watch to catch a fellow class member whilst you get your step on.
Footwear should be comfortable, with grips on the soles and something you can run in, especially if you're taking a circuit class. Again, with most classes that include high-impact exercises, consider buying insoles designed to take the impact of jumping or running.
Whatever you wear, think comfort first, and style second.
We created a handy infographic to help you prepare.
Get Fit In Style At Village Gym
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FAQS About What To Wear At The Gym
What should I wear on my first day of gym?
For your first day at the gym, you'll want to avoid normal everyday wear such as suit shirts, denim trousers, or any kind of dress. You'll also want to avoid wearing boots, slip-on shoes, canvas shoes, loafers, or anything that won't do well when you hit the machines. A good pair of trainer shoes and clothes that are breathable as well as snug-fitting are often best.
What should I wear inside the gym?
For indoor classes and gym sessions, avoid cotton and choose moisture-wicking fabrics. There are plenty of synthetic fabrics designed for working out. The danger with using clothes made from fabrics such as cotton is that they can trap moisture and lead to sweat rashes (among other things). Stay lightweight and breathable for your clothes choice inside a gym.
Should I wear jewellery?
Generally, no. Wearing jewellery in the gym is not a good idea, as it may get caught in the machines that you are using. Jewellery can also get caught in other people, such as fellow fitness class members. This can lead to injuries, so it's often best to take off things like bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and so on.
This also applies to watches - except for a MyZone Switch, which has been designed to be used during exercise.
Is it okay to wear glasses in the gym?
If your glasses are required for your vision, then yes, it is okay to wear them. If you can function without them for short periods, then taking them off is also fine as long as you can see relatively well.
If you do need to wear your glasses, you can consider using contact lenses if you can use them. Alternatively, you can have your glasses professionally tightened by an optician if they become an obstacle to working out.
Can I wear rings while at the gym?
Generally, yes. Rings don't present much of an issue when it comes to working out unless you are lifting weights. If you want to be really safe at the gym, it's best to take off your ring. This way, you won't risk getting hurt.
