Outfitted for Fitness

While you do have to accommodate seasonal climate changes when considering your exercise garb, bowing to fads over function can drain your wallet without furthering your fitness. Keep these hints in mind:

Leave the chic garments on the rack. While you can dress in flattering attire, some clothing sacrifices practicality for fashion. Stay sensible by purchasing undergarments, tanks, and shorts made of moisture-wicking fabrics that offer breathability, support, and mobility — such as polypropylene and spandex blends. Choose tagless and flat seams to lower your chances for chafing.

Don’t sack the socks. With so much attention rightly paid to securing high-quality shoes, it’s easy to forget about socks. But as the first line of defense between your skin and blisters, they can make all the difference in the quality of your workout. Look for socks that contour to your feet and repel moisture and heat. CoolMax® or Sensura® blends with polyester, nylon, and lycra will generally provide more comfort and ventilation than cotton varieties.

Keep cool. Exercise will raise your body temperature. To avoid overheating, dress in the fewest layers without sacrificing support or modesty. For cooler days, choose a light zip-up windbreaker over a heavy sweatshirt — your body heat will circulate within the nylon sheath and help keep you warm without weighing you down.