There are just some things that everyone needs to have in their closet in order to feel the best (and obviously look the best) while working out. I’m here to tell you about what those should be and suggest some of my favorite brands and styles!
1. A good t-shirt
The majority of my workout tops consist of Tulane free t-shirts and a few random others here and there. It wasn’t until I tried a t-shirt made for exercising that I realized what a difference this can make. These tops are made with materials to not only mask sweat, but absorb it, and keep you cool (or warm!) along the way.
My personal favorite is the Run: Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve at Lululemon Athletica. Not only did I never think I would wear anything other than a Tulane homecoming t-shirt to work out, but I certainly never thought I would wear gray to the gym. This top is made of Silverscent material that is anti-stink and perfect for great, long runs. It has areas where the fabric is thinner that let your skin breathe in the toughest workouts.
2. Nike running shorts A.K.A Norts
Tulane’s campus is filled with Norts on a day-to-day basis. Besides their fun colors and comfortable material they are also great for exercising. These shorts were designed for athletes and are made to withstand intense cardio workouts. While I cannot suggest any alternative brand for these awesome shorts, I can say this: there is a pair for everyone. Nike shorts come in every color and even pattern you can think of. And, obviously, they are multipurpose. Accidentally wake up at 8:45 for your 9am class? Throw these shorts on and run! Maybe they’ll even motivate you more to hit the gym after since you won’t have to change.
3.A great sports bra
Every girl that has ever exercised knows how important a great sports’ bra is to a great workout. My biggest anxiety as a competitive athlete was reaching in my bag only to realize I forgot one for that day’s pratice. You need a good sports bra in order to maintain comfort in tough workouts. To me: the tighter the better!
My personal favorite is from the GAP. I have this bra in three different colors and whenever I have it on, I’m never worried. They range in size from extra-small to extra-large. It depends on how your like a bra to fit, but for me, I usually have to go a size down in this to make sure it won’t cause any discomfort.
4. Sneakers
Sneakers could be one of the hardest things to find when trying to complete your exercise wardrobe. Last summer it took me almost two months to pick a new pair as my old ones fell apart. You must ask yourself what’s important to you in a sneaker. It all comes down to support. What level of support do you need for your foot/ankle and what pair is going to be the most comfortable?
To me, Asics running shoes are always a go-to! I prefer having a thick sole and these have just that. They provide great support for your ankle and the bottoms of your feet. They come in almost every color. Everyone has their own brand of running shoe, if you haven’t found yours, try Asics. They have never failed me!
5. Headbands
The last key piece to your wadrobe is a great headband! There is no bigger annoyance than your hair tie beginning to loosen and stray pieces falling in front of your eyes at the half way point on the elliptical. A good headband prevents any loose pieces from making their way onto your face and potentinally ruining your rhythm. Finding a good headband can be difficult, but there are some that always do the trick!
Under Armour Skinny Headbands are my personal favorite. They aren’t too thick and they provide just the right grip on your hair. They also always come in a package with at least four. Trying on a headband may sound strange, but I think it is the only way to ensure you have the right one! Everyone has a different size head and different texture hair. Figure out which one fits you best and which one is going to stay on your head no matter how much you sweat.
These five pieces are essentials in your workout wardrobe. In order to exercise well, it’s important you wear the right clothes and accessories to keep your body comfortable. Investing in these items will help you get healthy and look great while you do it.