What to Wear to the Gym

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A person wearing a black zip up top engaging in conversation at the gym

How to build an outfit for your workout

Your gym outfit ideas should prioritise your workout, so think about mobility, which fabrics and silhouettes allow plenty of airflow, and what look gives you the confidence to perform at your best.

Layering is your friend. It’s a good idea to keep your muscles warm as you get started in your workout, so don’t forget to bring some comfy outer layers like a sweatshirt to toss on in your breaks or while you’re waiting for your class to start. You might also like to layer with joggers.

Two people exercising in a fitness studio

What to wear for your cardio and HIIT session

For your cardio or HIIT session, you need to be ready to get your sweat on! If you’re jumping into a studio cycling class or onto the treadmill, you’re looking at spending a decent length of time building up your pace and you don’t want to feel uncomfortable.

An essential starting place is lightweight layers. Whether you want something short sleeved or higher coverage, the more important aspect is to pick clothing which allows a full range of movement. For high impact exercises, you might also be more comfortable wearing a sports bra which can offer some extra support.

A person attending a HIIT session and raising a barbell above their head

What to wear for your weightlifting session

Similar to a cardio and HIIT session, you need to pick an outfit with plenty of mobility to allow proper form when weightlifting. Compression shirts are a popular choice as they move with your body and can feel more supportive.

Depending on which muscle group you’re exercising, you can also find a range of accessories to help your workout feel more comfortable, from gloves to wrist straps to belts.

As a beginner, you don’t need to worry about stocking up on lots of extra equipment and accessories, but after you’ve defined your workout you might find tools like these helpful for supporting your progression.

A person using a cable machine at the gym

What to wear to your yoga class

For yoga, think soft, stretchy fabrics that allow you to cycle through the different poses (asanas). This activity focuses on posture and breath and is an excellent option for supporting your wellbeing, so comfort is key!

A group of people participating in yoga inside

What should I wear to the gym if I don’t like leggings?

Colourful two-piece sets might dominate your social media feed, but leggings aren’t your only option in the gym! Whilst they are a gym wardrobe staple, you have plenty of other great options.

A good alternative is to start with a pair of shorts. These make a great base layer in the winter underneath something loose and warmer, and in the summer months are the most practical for dealing with heat. You might also prefer shorts as they make it easier for you to check your form. Alternatively, you can try some joggers or a skort if you want to change up your outfits.

A person wearing black short and a white t-shirt doing pushups in the gym

Looking for gym outfit inspiration for a beginner?

If you’re just starting out in the gym and wondering what to wear, there’s no need to go out and buy lots of new things! Everything you need for your first gym session is likely to be in your wardrobe already. So, grab a comfortable T-shirt and joggers, pop on your trainers, and go and smash that first workout!

You can also elevate your confidence by taking a glance over our helpful blog which explains what equipment you might encounter so you feel prepped and ready.

Do gyms have dress codes?

Many gyms have dress codes to ensure the safety and comfort of gym goers. For example, gym clothing guidelines at Warwick Sport don’t permit jeans or bare feet. You can learn more about our dress code on our gym etiquette page.

A person raising a barbell above their head

What kind of shoes should I wear in the gym?

The right footwear can make a big difference in your comfort and control when you’re going to the gym. If you’re planning on using the treadmill, a good pair of running shoes is your best option.

Running shoes are built with cushioning and shock absorption to help with this high impact exercise and afford your joints more protection.

On the other hand, a flat-soled shoe with less cushioning is a good choice for weightlifting. If you’re all about cycling, be sure to bring in your cycling shoes to the gym or to a studio cycling class!

A close up of a persons shoes on a treadmill

What should I take to the gym?

Now you’ve got your clothing sorted and are ready to go to the gym for the first time, be sure to take your access pass and a bottle of water. Warwick Sport has a café along with its facilities so you can keep yourself refreshed and energised.

Once you’ve gained some experience, you might find it beneficial to bring some other accessories to the gym, like gloves, wrist straps, or belts which can be helpful for weightlifting. Depending on what kind of exercises you prefer, you may also want to bring extra supports like a squat pad to help your workout feel more comfortable.

Now that you’ve got your outfit planned, it’s time to get started! If you’re new to our facilities, why not try booking a class using our UoW Sport app for a fun introduction.

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