Global revenue for sports and fitness clothing is expected to reach $231.7 billion by 2024.

Likely this growth will be fueled by more and more people who are focusing on healthier lifestyles.

Read on to learn what to wear to the gym to be comfortable and safe. Then keep reading to find out what not to wear. 

Ease of Movement is #1

Looking fashionable is nice. But it must come second to ease of movement when choosing gym outfits.

No matter what type of workout you’re doing, you need to be able to have a full range of movement of your arms, torso, and legs. That means your clothes shouldn’t pull or bunch when you move.

Besides, if you are constantly pulling and adjusting your gym clothing, it can be annoying and make you less likely to want to go to the gym next time.

Clothes for bodybuilders, for example, can’t impede your movements or you could face serious injuries.

Moisture Wicking Clothing 

Gym clothes are designed for breathability and comfort. Most gym outfits you buy in stores are made out of synthetic fabrics.

These fabrics excel at pulling moisture away from your skin when you sweat. That way you don’t feel like you are walking around in a wet towel during your workout.

You should avoid 100% cotton gym shorts and tops because they absorb every drop of sweat. Instead, choose sweat-wicking gym clothing that was designed for working out. 

Quality Sports Bras are a Must

For women, an essential part of gym clothes is a sports bra. Regular bras and a sports bra for a decade ago just won’t do.

When you exercise you need a supportive bra that can minimize bounce. Choose a sports bra that is designed for high impact sports. Especially if you have a large bust.

Without proper support, you could suffer from shoulder and back pain after your workout. Plus, running or jumping without support causes the breast tissue to stretch and sag. You definitely don’t want that. 

While you’re at it, Make sure to keep your hair out of your face with a cute and functional gym hairstyle. 

Socks

Choose acrylic or an acrylic blend material for your socks. This will prevent your feet from smelling and getting blisters.

Never wear your thin dress socks to the gym. Your feet need the supportive cushioning from athletic socks as you do your workout.

Athletic Shoes

The right shoes are essential for a good workout.

If you are going to do a variety of exercises such as spin class, weight lifting, and the step machine, choose a pair of cross trainers.

Cross trainers are ideal for people who do a little bit of everything. If you just use the treadmill, running shoes are your best bet.

Make sure that your shoes are up to the job. Gym shoes from high school aren’t going to suffice.  

The general rule is that you should replace sneakers after 300 miles. If you aren’t running and tracking your miles, just look at the soles of your shoes.

If the tread is starting to wear out, it’s time to go shoe shopping. Remember, your shoes provide stability and support for your entire body. 

What Not to Wear to the Gym

Now that you know what to look for in gym clothing and shoes, let’s look at what not to wear to the gym.

Jewelry

If you are coming from work and are wearing jewelry, lock it up in a locker before your workout.

If it’s valuable, leave it at home or locked in the car. Pendants, dangling earrings, and rings have no place at the gym.

These items are a safety hazard because they can get tangled with the gym equipment. Wearing rings when you use weights can even break the skin on your hands.

Plus, if you’re lifting heavy weights, the dumbbell can dent or scratch the metal. 

Over-Tight Clothes

Clothing that is a size too small or too tight is a no-no. That doesn’t mean you should wear baggy clothes.

Gym clothes are designed to be close to the skin for a reason. Even compression clothing is acceptable.

But overly tight clothing can restrict your movements and even restrict proper circulation. Too-tight shirts can affect your breathing and gym shorts that are too tight can cause chaffing.

If your clothing doesn’t allow you to bend fully or lift your arms all the way up and out, it’s too tight. 

A Face Full of Makeup

A lot of women like to wear makeup anytime they are out of the house. But the gym should be an exception.

When you sweat, dirt and oil build up under makeup. But the makeup keeps that oil and dirt locked in the skin’s layers.

This makes your skin irritated. Likely, you will suffer from acne breakout as a result.

If your goal is to exercise at the gym, the only thing on your face should be a light sunscreen. Don’t worry about how you look. 

In fact, running makeup and raccoon eyes will draw the kind of attention you don’t want. So save your contouring for when you go out with friends. 

At the gym, let your skin breath and push out all that oil and dirt.

Final Thoughts on What to Wear to the Gym

There you have it! A list of what to wear to the gym and what not to wear. We hope this guide helps you understand the reasoning behind gym clothes.

Next, check out these 5 simple steps for how to get motivated to workout. You’ll feel so good after your workout that it will be easier to go the next time.