Working out. That phrase gives me the heebie jeebies. But I still do it, almost every day. Whether it's pilates, running or the gym, I do work out five days a week. And that's a lot of gym outfits I go through, I tell ya.
Leggings, sports bras, tops...and then there's the running tops and the odd rain jacket in case of showers while out pounding the pavements. I even have to do a dedicated gym gear wash. But it's worth it.
Keeping fit is one of the best things and exercise is good for the soul as it is the physical stuff. But if you want to know what to wear to the gym, then you have plenty to choose from. Whether it be the premium brands like Nike and Adidas, or the high street.
Penneys
From left: Purple top, €6; Sports cut off top, €4; Leggings, €9 all from PenneysPenneys started 2015 with a big push on their workout wear, and thankfully it has continued with a a whole section of some of their stores dedicated to work out collections. I can say from trying and testing, they wear well, and wash well, especially their running leggings that are super flexible and even have a built in pouch for keys.
Plus, the colours are like a rainbow, allowing you to be co-ordinated in fashion if not on the treadmill.
New Look
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From left: Printed leggings, €22.99; Sports bra, €14.99; Top, €9.99 all from New LookIf you want to be seen, then New Look's collection will do the trick. Lots of luminous pieces are the foundation for the collection which I think are a great option for outside workouts in the evenings.
The sports bras do give good support, but don't compare to that of Under Armour or Nike (both of which I have tried out, prices start at €40 for these).
Elverys Sports
Red top, €30, Under Armour; Printed leggings, €55, Nike all at ElverysIf you want to invest in a premium collection of work out wear then Nike and Under Armour are my two favourites. Under Armour tops have exceptional fabrics, and the cotton tops are incredibly cooling. For the ultimate support for you pro-runners out there, Nike's leggings are second to none. As yuk as it sounds, these ones have sweat-wicking fabric to draw away any moisture from your skin to keep you comfortable. They also have a nice wide waist band for support and extra comfort. A little more expensive, but a collection you can build up over time.
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I don't need to add that good footwear is key. Lifestyle Sports offer a gait analysis service in their Dundrum store, where you can have your run analysed by the in-store expert. I tried this out and it's great. You simply run for 10 seconds on their tread mill and your gait is filmed to determine what training shoe is suitable for your running style to support your legs, knees and feet. Once you try on the recommended style, you can hop back on the treadmill to test it out. A good pair of Asics fixed my sore knees! Sports bras are also a key investment. It's a good idea to know your exact bra size when you go to buy at a sports store. They do have maximum support so they will feel tighter than a normal bra. But the difference is amazing.
So tell me, what do you like to wear when you work out? Have you a favourite brand?
