Saturday, May 8, 2010

Workout Clothes

I always used to kind of roll my eyes at people who bought clothes specifically for working out in- for getting sweaty and being uncomfortable in. I didn't understand why anyone would put good money into something that only required grubby clothes. Until I started running, I always wore the same thing to work out- cut off sweat pants, cami, baggy t-shirt. Comfortable, covered everything, ok to sweat in. When I went and bought running shoes, I learned about wicking and stuff. Still didn't really get it but I wanted some money behind my passion so I would stick to it. So I bought expensive socks and a shirt and a bra and running capris. Since then, I've picked up a second pair of capris (not the expensive Under Armour of my first pair but Champion brand from Target instead), 2 more bras, a sleeveless shirt, and 2 t-shirts. And it isn't enough. I'd like to get a good built-in bra sleeveless tank. I'd like another pair of pants. I'd like a pair of shorts. I have to wash my workout clothes after wearing them because I sweat so much- no way around it. I have to do laundry more frequently now because I workout every day and don't have enough workout gear to match. Yesterday, I ended up running in a pair of cotton shorts, a cami, and a big baggy t-shirt. I had packed the gym bag for Thursday but we opted for sushi on Thursday instead. Thursday would have been strength training in the gym. But since we put it off until Friday, we opted to go run outside. Cotton shorts ride up. A lot. A bagy t-shirt interferes with movement and feels heavy- even though it was a very thin cotton. The cami... oh, how I missed my sports bra! Is it necessary to have workout clothes? No, of course not. But boy am I glad that I do. I really appreciate the run yesterday because it really demonstrated for me the difference between old slacker clothes and serious about a workout clothes. A piece of race day advise I've read several times is to make sure to wear clothes you've been training in- don't go out and buy brand new stuff and wear it. You risk chaffing and other issues. After the experience yesterday, I totally understand that. I could feel my thighs rubbing very uncomfortably. I had prepped certain more sensitive areas of my body... but not the thighs. How about you? Do you have workout clothing that makes a difference in how you feel about your workout? Or that actually impacts your performance? Photobucket

7 comments:

Katherine said...

I bought a pair of great workout capris, but other than that, my workout clothes are a hodge podge of old things I can't wear otherwise. This post makes me want nice workout clothes, though. Maybe I'd be more motivated.

Lola said...

It is so so true! I had to get over the fact that real running gear is generally skin tight. I'm very self conscious- but what I've also started to "own" is that I have invested in the things to make me successful and comfortable in my training- otherwise I wouldn't keep at it AND people take me more seriously even though I don't fit the typical "shape" of a runner - but its obvious that if you are spending $30+ for a shirt and $100+ for shoes that you're in this. And I love wicking wear- honestly- My thighs (and other various cracks and crevices) are so thankful for it! :)

p.s. - race report on my blog today!

Mrs4444 said...

I have lots of workout clothes, but I don't work out, so they are going unused. Some day....

I think that having the proper clothing makes you feel serious about your commitment. Of course, the bra is very IMPORTANT.

Teacher Tom said...

My "workouts" are walking the dogs and pick-up basketball games, so I don't even own special clothing, but my wife swears by them. I used to mock her (gently) for buying special things to sweat in, but she finds them motivating, and I say to go with whatever works!

C. Beth said...

For my runs I used to wear just cotton shorts, a cotton sports bra, cotton shirt. Actually not too bad for winter, but as it started getting warmer I realized I'd want something that wicked sweat.

I found 2 pairs of running shorts on the Roadrunner Sports website, both on sale. And then I found 2 running tanks w/built-in bras at Academy. They're the same style (Nike brand)) and I LOVE them!!! I got them on clearance for $20 each which is of course a fantastic deal.

What I told hubby is, "When I'm wearing my running clothes, I don't think about what I'm wearing." That's why they're so great. They don't distract me from running; they're just comfortable enough for me to rarely give them a thought. Awesome.

And I'm totally gonna get some good running stuff for the winter. :) In fact, I need to check around for clearance stuff if it's not too late.

C. Beth said...

P.S. In the winter I actually wore pants, not shorts. Hubby does run in shorts no matter how cold it is though.

Amy said...

I haven't bought much in the way of workout clothes, but have been lucky enough to have some handed down to me. I've found that I need a v-neck shirt to work out in and baggy stuff definitely does not work. As you said, it feels heavy and gets in the way.