Want to dress for success at the gym? It takes more than knowing your Laain from your Lululemon. Here are seven common mistakes girls make with their workout wardrobes without even knowing it.
1. 100 PERCENT COTTON T-SHIRTSWe have two words for you: Moisture management. (Sorry.) Shirts made from 100 percent cotton will soak up sweat, but the fibers will hold onto the water, leaving you cold and clammy. Instead, opt for a light, breathable performance fabric, like Nike’s Dri-FIT, that will absorb moisture and not weigh you down.
2. PULLOVER SPORTS BRASThe wrong bra can make or break your workout! Unless you have an A-cup bra size and you plan on doing a low impact exercise, you should steer clear of pullover sports bras for one simple reason: lack of support. As you exercise over time, your sports bras will naturally loosen. You’ll want the ability to tighten your back band as it wears out.
Instagram content
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.
3. FANCY PANTIESUnderwear is one of the most commonly overlooked pieces of a fitness wardrobe. No matter how much you love lace, satin or silk underwear, they simply don’t belong at the gym. Why? Because these types of fabrics don’t breathe, so you raise your chances of throwing off your pH balance and getting a yeast infection. To play it safe, stick with cotton bikinis.
4. MAKEUPA full-face of makeup may sound like a good idea in theory, but it can clog your pores and cause breakouts. If you’re absolutely set on wearing something, try a light, tinted moisturizer from an eco-friendly brand like Josie Maran.
5. BAGGY SWEATPANTSFashion may be having a love affair with sweatpants again, but there’s a place and a time for everything. Did you know they slip off the barre in Ballet Beautiful class and get caught in the bikes at SoulCycle? Sad, but true.
Instagram content
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.
6. JEWELRYLeave the hardware at home. Pro athletes may wear jewelry all the time, but the rest of us aren’t that coordinated. There’s a good chance you’ll get your necklaces caught on your clothes, bang up your ring bands lifting weights or lose a stone during an intense CrossFit workout. We’ve seen it happen.
7. ANYTHING THAT HASN’T BEEN ROAD-TESTEDHave you ever bent over during Bikram only to have your leggings rip in the most awkward place imaginable? Nightmare. Avoid embarrassing moments by squatting, lunging and stretching in your new gear before you buy it. And remember to always bring a spare. You’ll thank us later.
Related: 31 Adorable Workout Outfits to Get You Through Your January Resolutions
