When you go to the gym, it's important to wear clothes that are breathable and flexible. It's fun to look good, but remember that fitness and safety are your foremost concerns. That’s why we’re here to lay out the dress code for both men and women, show you the proper footwear, and fill you in on other key accessories and tips, so you can sweat in style and comfort.
Putting Together a Gym Outfit
Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothes that allow for a full range of motion, without being so baggy they get in the way. Opt for breathable materials like cotton blends or polyester to stay cool and lightweight as you work up a sweat.
Steps
Expert Q&A
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QuestionDo men need to wear underwear to the gym?Michele Dolan is a Fitness Trainer based in Sidney, British Columbia. She has been a personal trainer and fitness instructor since 2002, and was certified as a Personal Trainer by the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA). Michele is also a Registered Clinical Counselor, and uses her 20+ years of fitness coaching experience to help clients understand their mind-body connection. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified Clinical Counsellor (CCC), certified by the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. In her work, Michele uses the tools of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. She practices and teaches mindfulness and acceptance in all of her coaching work. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology.Underwear helps soak up sweat and keep it off of the benches at the gym. However, only you can choose whether you wear underwear or not. If your underwear chafes, consider baggy, light-weight briefs or light-weight sweat pants instead.
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QuestionShould I wear sweat shorts at the gym, or do I need to buy gym shorts or sweatpants to wear instead.Michele Dolan is a Fitness Trainer based in Sidney, British Columbia. She has been a personal trainer and fitness instructor since 2002, and was certified as a Personal Trainer by the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA). Michele is also a Registered Clinical Counselor, and uses her 20+ years of fitness coaching experience to help clients understand their mind-body connection. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified Clinical Counsellor (CCC), certified by the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. In her work, Michele uses the tools of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. She practices and teaches mindfulness and acceptance in all of her coaching work. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology.Wear what feels comfortable and allows your legs to move freely during all your exercises. Remember that when you are lying on a bench, if your shorts are too short or baggy, people can see up the leg. The gym is full of mirrors so be aware of the views you are giving to other gym goers.
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QuestionShould I take water instead of a protein shake?Community AnswerYes, drink the protein shake before or after the work out and take water to the gym.
Tips
- Look for bottoms with secure pockets to place your phone, so that you don’t need to leave it in a locker.Thanks
References
- ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/what-not-to-wear-to-the-gym
- ↑ Hannah Park. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview. 21 February 2019.
- ↑ https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/beauty-style/5-tips-find-perfect-sports-bra
- ↑ https://www.gq.com/story/how-to-dress-for-the-gym-according-to-women-survey
- ↑ https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/gallery/gym-clothes-for-men
- ↑ https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a19962221/what-not-to-wear-to-the-gym/
- ↑ https://www.gq.com/story/how-to-dress-for-the-gym-according-to-women-survey
- ↑ https://lafayettefamilyymca.org/7-gym-etiquette-rules/
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20045506
- ↑ Paige Bowen, MA, EdM. Physical Education Teacher. Expert Interview. 9 March 2020.
- ↑ https://lafayettefamilyymca.org/7-gym-etiquette-rules/
- ↑ https://lafayettefamilyymca.org/7-gym-etiquette-rules/
- ↑ https://lafayettefamilyymca.org/7-gym-etiquette-rules/
About This Article
To dress for the gym, choose a lightweight t-shirt, tank top, or sweatshirt made of breathable material like cotton or polyester. Next, select flexible bottoms that allow full range of motion like gym shorts, sweatpants, track pants, or yoga pants. Opt for closed-toe athletic or running shoes with ample ankle and arch support, wear them with lightweight, breathable socks, and don't forget to bring a towel! For more tips on choosing appropriate footwear, read on!
Reader Success Stories
- "i went to gym using most of these tips and they really worked!! I used to wear a cotton tank top to the gym, but now after following your advice I am more comfortable and motivated to work out at the gym!" ..." more