Jessi Fit Pilates

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4 Tips For Buying Fitness Gear

With fitness fashion trends changing every season, the temptation to go for what looks cute rather than what will last may become the real fitness challenge.

The US fitness market (valued at $5.24 billion in 2018) continues to thrive and is predicted to double or even triple in the next 10-15 years.

An ever growing number of brands are becoming more technical with new products, fabrics, and designs that are created to make exercise more comfortable and efficient.

I’ve bought so many things that just didn’t feel good when I was getting my sweat on, and I also don’t feel the need to plunk down 150 bucks on leggings every time I need a new pair. With options at every price point it’s important to look for certain factors

So here are some things you should consider to help you make the right choice.

1 The material used

You would want to pick a workout outfit made of a material that draws sweat away from your body (wicking) and allows you to breathe and move with ease.

Materials such as lycra, polyester, and spandex are excellent for wicking, but you have to keep in mind to pick quality brands designed to withstand the constant wear and washing. You may be asking yourself why cotton is not the ultimate workout fabric since it is a comfortable choice. Although cotton is soft and soaks up moisture, it does not dry quickly. This makes it bulky with sweat, uncomfortable, and can cause skin irritations.  Also look at the seams- are the sewn well?

And the big question- ARE THEY SEE THROUGH???

2. Form-fitting clothes

A comfortable workout outfit should not be the baggiest sweatpants you can find.

Baggy workout clothes are not best-suited for exercise as it can encourage excessive sweating and the excess fabric can get in the way of your routine. Instead, your clothes should be tight but not to the point of constriction. A snug outfit should feel comfortable on your skin and body. Sometimes, people choose to go in for a slightly loose gear, which does not move too far off from their body.

You want to feel your very best when taking positions and moving through your moves on your eco friendly yoga mat

3. A good sports bra

Have you ever been to the gym for a workout session in a regular bra?

It is an uncomfortable experience even for me and I am small chested. The only solution is a sports bra. These bras are designed to compress comfortably and to keep your tatas in place. This can help and possible tears to your breast tissue. The right sports bra has wider straps with a comfortable band at the bottom (usually around the diaphragm area) tand adjustable shoulder straps. The level of constriction you choose will depend on your size and the exercise you are performing. Pilates and yoga weill not require much compression but HIIT and running will require more

4. A good pair of workout shoes

 Did you know your shoes can determine the success of a sweat sesh?

However, this does not necessarily mean that all your comfy kicks are the right workout shoes. Instead, select footwear that supports your movement, arches and ankles. During exercise, it is not unusual for your feet to lengthen or swell slightly due to pressure. When purchasing your sneakers, make sure it has an inch of room from the big toe to the shoes' front. Try out several movements while trying it on before you purchase it. It is a good idea to buy them late in the day, as in the morning your feet will be the smallest.

If you’re are trail running, you’ll need different support then if you’re running on a treadmill. Sports like basketball with lots of directional changes need high tops for ankle support.

If you want to stay healthy through exercise routines, you need to invest in the right workout gear.

This does not have to be beyond your budget. There are several affordable, comfortable options that perform excellently on a day to day use. It would be best if you considered sustainability as a keyword in your exercises.

Need some new gear?

Check out my Amazon Storefront below!

I’ll be updating it with all my tried and true tested workout outfits;)