Let’s face it: sometimes exercising can be a drag. It’s 7 pm and we’re tired from work and life- the last thing we want to do is break a sweat. NYgal has a secret to feeling better at the gym: dress to impress!
Here are four reasons why you should ditch the baggy t-shirt in favor of some stylish workout clothes. Look and feel your best!
Motivation
When we look good, we tend to feel good. And when we feel good, that’s when results happen because we push ourselves harder.
Image Credit: Jordan Whitfield via Unsplash
Functionality
At the very least, you should be putting care and attention into your gym outfit. Functionality allows you to focus solely on your workout instead of adjusting your clothing. It can even save you from an unfortunate injury. To be more specific, your shoes, undergarments, and material choice are important.
Let’s break it down:
Shoes
Your feet support you through thick and thin and they go through a lot. Treat them to well-fitting shoes! Make sure you’re choosing proper support for your ankles and arches.
If you’re at a loss of which shoe is best for you, hit up your local sports store. Odds are, they’re trained for this sort of thing. Or, you can even visit a sports doctor or podiatrist! Feet are their specialty and they would be more than willing to help you out.
Image Credit: Redd Angelo via Unsplash
Undergarments
Not only are undergarments a vital foundation to make the rest of your clothes fit right, they’re also protecting you from injury. As women, we have to consider the type of bra we wear to the gym.
That bralette from Victoria’s Secret may be super cute, but it will not protect your breasts and back from the strain of exercise. Make sure you’re choosing a bra with maximum support and the proper fit. The girls will thank you.
Image Credit: Bruce Mars via Unsplash
As for underpants, it’s important to choose a breathable fabric. If you don’t, you could be accidentally inviting bacteria near your lady bits and no one wants that.
Material Choice
If you’re like me, your go-to gym outfit is a t-shirt and leggings. According to fitness experts, this is a big no-no! T-shirts are not the most breathable when you’re working up a sweat. This can lead to uncomfortable wetness and chafing- go for synthetic, moisture-wicking fabric.
Image Credit
Boost of Self Esteem
What is one thing all gyms have in common? Mirrors! These shiny, reflective objects can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they allow gym goers to check for form, especially during strength training.
On the other hand, they can also be the cause of anxiety- catching a flash of a hot mess in the mirror can be detrimental to your self-esteem. The reason you’re at the gym is to treat your body well.
NYgal knows it’s beautiful and strong, and it’s your turn to believe it! By entering the gym looking good, your own inner confident light will shine through.
Also, gym selfies are still a thing!
Image Credit: Charlotte Karlsen via Unsplash
Become an inspiration
There is no better confidence booster than someone coming up to you and complimenting your workout routine. However, we are not saying you should exercise to get compliments.
On the contrary- we at NYgal believe you should exercise for YOU and your health and wellbeing only. However, a side effect of that can be being seen as an inspiration- someone who is put together and secure in the fact that the steps they’re taking at the gym are getting them to where they want to be.
We all know those people; the ones who genuinely enjoy going to the gym and who look good while doing it.
We are works in progress, but that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate and flaunt what we’ve got in this particular moment!
Maybe you’ll inspire another woman to love herself and her body–and honestly, isn’t that the goal?
Image Credit: Hannah Grace via Unsplash
Featured Image Credit: Melody Jacob via Unsplash
