PICKING THE RIGHT CLOTHES FOR EXERCISE

Whether you’re looking to buy some new activewear or thinking about what you have available already, fitness consultant Craig Wise has some advice.

If you’re like me, you look around any store that sells activewear and feel a bit bewildered. Can’t I just go for a run in my shorts and t-shirt?

The simple answer (and I am a simple man) is “yes”. There are, of course, some “buts”.

PLANNING AHEAD

While everyone has different needs for their own activities, there are some simple guidelines.

Firstly, consider your chosen activity and what will be most practical to wear throughout the session.

If you’re heading to a spin class, then shorts or tight leggings are more suitable than loose-fitting leggings. (People will recognise their own struggles when they see someone fighting through the pain to keep going in a spin class, but no one will ever forget the guy whose leggings got caught in the pedals.)

A loose, strappy top may work well for a yoga or Pilates session, but if you plan on getting moving with a high-intensity interval workout, then look for something more formfitting and flexible that gives plenty of support.

Also, be aware that some facilities may have their own clothing standards, so be sure to follow these.

FABRIC TYPES

Over the years, we’ve all watched as the hallowed All Blacks jersey has changed from a baggy, cotton oversized rugby top to a body-hugging, tackle-slipping barely there t-shirt. That’s thanks to men and women in lab coats and millions of dollars.

Thanks to those same lab-coat wearers, the options for us mere mortals just going for a run in an old cotton t-shirt and shorts have also changed.

Now don’t get me wrong, that old cotton t-shirt has its place in the grand scheme of activewear – but only if you don’t plan on working up a massive sweat.

Let’s take a closer look at fabrics.

COTTON

As a natural fibre, cotton is great. It allows the body to breathe and has some natural wind-breaking properties. However, it also absorbs sweat and soon becomes heavy. If you’re out for a light workout where you won’t be pushing your limits (think spring morning walks by the river or playing at the park with the kids), then cotton is great. But if you’re planning on stepping the activity up, then you might want to think beyond the old faithful cotton.

On the plus side, research has shown that odour-causing bacteria from sweat don’t cling to cotton in the same way they cling to synthetic fibres.

BAMBOO

Yes, that stuff the pandas chew all day! If you’re keen to stick to a natural fibre, then bamboo is a great alternative to cotton. It’s been shown to have antibacterial properties, it’s strong, and it’s moisture wicking. (It’s what? We’ll come to that later.)

SPANDEX (AKA Lycra)

Lycra is actually a brand name for spandex, but some excellent marketing has led many to believe that it’s something different. While, for many of us, the thought of going out in public in spandex and showing off our extra rolls can be a little intense, spandex is one of the most common and versatile materials in activewear.

Its stretchy properties and strength mean that it’s blended into just about all activewear, swimwear, and underwear.

Having some spandex blended into a clothing fabric will allow the body to move comfortably. One proviso: Smells can cling to spandex fibres after a heavy-sweat session, so don’t leave spandex clothing in your gym bag. Wash it as soon as possible, but don’t throw it in the dryer.

POLYESTER

Polyester is an inexpensive and durable material with a very low absorbency rate, so it won’t get heavy with sweat like that cotton t-shirt. Because of the way it’s manufactured, the fibres are very strong. This means it is less likely to shrink or lose its shape when washed.

NYLON

By itself, nylon can be scratchy, but it’s often blended with other materials to make the most of the fact that it’s a very strong material with very low absorbency – great for those sweaty workouts.

TECHNOLOGY TERMS

A couple of terms appear often on clothing tags; it’s useful to know what they mean.

“MOISTURE WICKING”

When we sweat, the moisture must go somewhere. It can either stay on the skin or be absorbed by our clothes. Natural materials such as cotton absorb the moisture and lock it into the fibres, which is why that cotton t-shirt gets so heavy after the mid-summer run. However, materials with wicking properties pass the moisture to the outer level of the garment and allow it to evaporate.

“QUICK DRY”

A quick-dry material does just that: it dries quickly. And while it’s an especially big sales point for hiking wear, I like quick-dry clothes for workouts because I can throw them in the machine, knowing they will dry overnight.

TRY IT ON!

This is important for active wear. It’s not size you’re checking but comfort and manoeuvrability.

In the changing room, don’t be afraid to walk about, bend over, and squat down. No matter how great a garment looks or what brand it is, if it doesn’t feel great to move in, then it’s no good.

Be sure to try different brands and styles. Make sure that you are 100% comfortable before you part with your cash.

WHAT’S UNDERNEATH IS IMPORTANT, TOO

While you’re checking out those great leggings and tops, remember: good sportswear always starts with a good base.

SOCKS

You’d think this was easy: just grab a pair from your drawer and go. But you’d be wrong. Avoid cotton socks, because, just like that t-shirt, they’ll absorb all the moisture. As well as being uncomfortable (and a bit smelly), this can also lead to rubbing and blisters. Instead, look for socks with a nylon or wool blend which will allow the feet to breathe and have that all important moisture-wicking effect.

UNDERWEAR

Your entire body sweats during a workout, even down there. So, look for lightweight undies made from moisture-wicking materials to draw away the sweat. This will also help reduce chaffing.

For breasts, a well-fitted sports bra will make all the difference. It will help minimise breast discomfort during exercise and prevent damage to the supporting ligaments. It’s worth taking the time to speak to an expert and get fitted properly for a bra. If your budget means you have to choose between good outerwear and a good-quality sports bra – go for the bra every time.

A FINAL THOUGHT

No clothes shopping – whether work clothes, party clothes, or activewear – should be rushed. Take your time. If it doesn’t feel right, no matter what brand it is or what sports celebrity is wearing it, then don’t waste your money.

You need to be 100% comfortable in what you buy and able to do the activity of your choice in it without restrictions.

If it’s comfortable and you enjoy wearing it, then you’re more likely to put it on and get active.