It’s no surprise style and sportswear have
started to merge. All you need to do is look round the gym and you can see the
days of throwing on an old t-shirt and pair of shorts are over. The modern gym
goer needs to look good with their clothes on, while in the process of trying
to look good when their clothes are off. And while I enjoy looking
stylish, it needs to be practical.
So here are my rules on how to avoid looking like
‘all the gear, with no idea’:
1.
Footwear
Your Nike Air Max’s might look great when you’re
lifting weights, but they’re not designed for running on a treadmill. Invest in
a pair of running specific trainers
2.
Shorts
What you do in the gym will determine what you
wear. If you’re planning a leg day, tapered shorts that finish just above the
knee. Don’t wear a high cut running short while lunging round the gym, with
your bits hanging out. No one wants to see it.
3.
Tights/Leggings
Make sure you know the difference. If you turn up
in tights without a pair of shorts on top, chances are we can see through them.
Tights are thin. Leggings however are thicker therefore don’t necessarily need
a layer on top. Just make sure you check before you leave the house.
4.
String Vests
I mean, seriously!? We get it, you’re a gym rat
and you want to show off your muscles, but you might as well be topless. A
slim-fit compression top, durable and wearable in either short or long sleeves.
5. Hoodie
Quite possibly the most important piece of
clothing you’ll never train in. A good hoodie ups your game, it says ‘I’m fit,
and I’m ready.’ A bad hoodie says ‘any spare change mate?’
6. Baseball
Cap
Given most gym lighting is unbearably harsh, gym
caps are a yes from me. Snapbacks however, are a no.
7. Headphones
If you can’t stand the incessant music gyms play,
I suggest a pair of wireless headphones. Just don’t play your music too loud,
no one else wants to hear it.
8. Gloves
Sure callouses are a sign you lift heavy things,
but who wants to hold a rough torn up hand. It makes sense to invest in a pair
of mitts.