So I’m on my way to the gym and not really looking forward to exercising. I feel obligated, really, because of the guilt. I’m thinking, “You know…I probably shouldn’t have eaten that extra bowl of cereal…”
I walk through the doors of my school’s recreational center and immediately feel like Homer Simpson...
What’s a gym?
This clip always makes me laugh because I understand that confusion. Every time I walk into a gym, I never know what to do, where to start, the amount of sweating I should allow people to see (pit stains = too gross?), etc. People have their routines, and you know what? So do I.
As much as I dread going to the gym, it’s funny because after a good work-out, I feel fantastic. It puts me in a better mood, and my ridiculous insecurities seem to subside. Well, at least until the next time I feel the need to work-out...
Things remain consistent at my gym: The guys are always at the weights, pumping iron, flexing their muscles and grunting obnoxiously, the line of treadmills are always occupied by males and females alike, and the more modest types are at the far end of the gym working on their abs or doing extensive stretches.
The other consistency lies in clothing choices and this is what I have observed recently:
Females are trending towards form fitting compression pants/capris and racer back tank tops.
I always envy the girls that can pull off those pants, and I have yet to find the confidence to wear them when I exercise. But then I thought, why not try them out? I’m sick of the same heavy cotton shorts that seem to make me sweat more than I have to, and apparently these types of pants can help relieve my sweat fears.
Adidas has a great selection of compression pants, like these:
Courtesy: shopadidas.com
The compression fabric helps reduce muscle vibration and maximizes endurance and is also made of a CLIMALITE® fabric that absorbs sweat directly off your skin as it develops.
Cost: $40
A cheaper option: Old Navy.
Courtesy: oldnavy.gap.com
With the same features and characteristics as Adidas’s compression pants, you can buy these at Old Navy for less than half the cost! AND Right now they are having a 25% off discount in stores worldwide as well as on their website.
Cost: $15
Racer back tank tops are always in at the gym and lately I’ve noticed that fewer girls are making the decision of wearing a ratty old t-shirt. Okay, it’s comfortable, but I realize that it can also drag you down. Often I have chosen an old t-shirt in hopes of hiding my hips, but it really just made me uncomfortable and frumpy. A nice racer back is breathable and surprisingly flattering.
Courtesy: championusa.com
This tank top by Champion comes in an array of colors, featuring that same type of fabric that wicks away moisture, is stretchable, and sleek. It’s cheap too!
Cost: $20
Champion also has a line of racer back tank tops with built-in bras. Can you say, bonus!
Having the right exercise wardrobe can really amp up your work-out routine because it can boost confidence and confidence is what you need to begin living a healthier life.
Maybe the next time you enter a gym, you won’t feel so disoriented like Homer. Isn’t it better to look like you know what you’re doing? I bet you’ll inspire others, like what those girls did for me with those tight pants.
