7 Tips for Choosing Good Workout Clothes ...

If there's one mistake I notice that people tend to make when choosing workout clothes, it's that they throw on the first thing they find on the closet floor. Old sweats, baggy shorts, ripped up t-shirts, or stretched out PJ pants are NOT good options for working out! Not only will your workout morale be low, but you will perceive yourself as un-sexy and therefore you wont be pumped about your performance. Besides that, it can be dangerous to wear workout gear that is old or clothes that aren't even meant to be worn at the gym. Baggy clothes can catch on weights or treadmills and cause you to trip or fall or drop something. And clothes that are stretched out won't give you the support you need in certain areas of your body.

When choosing good workout clothes, keep in mind the type of exercise you will be doing. For running, jogging, cycling or any other type of exercise that involves a lot of leg usage, you'll want shorts or capris that fit well and aren't loose or baggy. This ensures that they won't get in your way or catch on machines. For yoga, stretches, weight lifting or other types of exercise that don't involve cardio or rapid movement, a pair of gym pants or yoga pants with a slight flare at the bottom would be appropriate. I like spandex or elastic ones because they fit well, show off your shape and are super comfortable!

The type of top you should choose to work out in, again depends on the workout regimen you have in mind for that day and the weather as well. My usual recommendation is that you should go with a sleeveless top. Sleeveless tops are more comfortable since they don't trap sweat against your body and they are cooler in the hot months, You can still wear a sleeveless top in the winter since most gyms are heated. Just wear a light jacket over your top until you start to warm up, then shed it. If you absolutely want a sleeve, don't go for anything heavy or super long. Keep the material light and the sleeve generally short to keep from hindering movement.

If there's one tip I can give you ladies about choosing good workout clothes, it's this one right here! Invest your money in a good sports bra. It doesn't have to be an expensive one, but a bra that supports your girls and holds them in place will do a lot for you! You will find that your breasts and back will ache much less if your chest is supported firmly and held into place. And besides, a women jogging with her breasts jiggling everywhere is not the most attractive sight in the world.

The right shoes can make a world of difference in your workout sessions, especially if you are a runner or if you do sprints. But even if you just lift weights, you will find that the right amount of support and cushioning on your feet can alleviate back pressure and give you more stability and traction. Again, you don't have to spend a fortune, but do find a pair of shoes that fit you well and offer support. You can often find name brand sports shoes on sale for a fraction of the regular price. Check online and in stores to compare prices and at the ends of seasons when deals will be the hottest!

Your best bet for looking stylish when choosing good workout clothes is to pick one or two color schemes and stick with it! Dark colors always look the most sophisticated for workout clothes. Another advantage of dark colors is that they keep you looking thin and slender. And black especially is always sexy! Most of my workout clothes are black, gray or navy. That being said, a pop of color is always refreshing! I like to pair black with orange, hot pink, bright purple or coral shades.

Don't forget, when choosing workout clothes that fabric matters! You do want clothes that fit you nicely and snugly, but nothing TOO tight or snug! You don't want to hamper your movement or be uncomfortable. And make sure the fabric your workout clothes are made of is breathable. If you trap sweat against your skin, you increase chances of breakouts, sweaty smells and sweat stains on your clothes. The best fabrics to choose for workout clothes are cotton, spandex or elastic types. You will be much more comfortable in something that allows you to move around!

When choosing good workout clothes, you can also remember the "fun" items! By this I mean, cute water bottles, a nice gym bag, colorful ipod covers and earbuds, a nice stopwatch, or whatever other little things you fancy. And always keep gym bag essentials on hand. Facial wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, body spray, makeup, a mini-blow dryer, brush or comb, a change of clothes and a towel are good things to have on hand in case you need to shower or freshen up after your workout-and those items are just as important as choosing good workout clothes. Good luck choosing good workout clothes, and happy working out to you! How about letting me know what you like to wear when you work out?

Top Image Source: weheartit.com