Exercise Clothes

Updated on July 04, 2011
S.B. asks from Encino, CA
9 answers

Hi Moms -
It's been a while since I've been to the gym, and I plan to start an exercise class (cardio and strength training) next week. I'd love some advice as to what folks are wearing to the gym these days, with an eye toward comfort and affordability. What affordable brand of shoes are good for this type of work out? What is a good sports bra brand for a D cup? What other clothes/gear is appropriate? Thanks!

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So What Happened?

Thanks, all! Very helpful information - I hit Target over the weekend and found some good stuff. I still am working on the right sports bra, and really appreciate the advice on where to look.

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J.B.

answers from Boston on

I get tops at Target - they have a decent selection of bras as well as tanks and tees. I am way more comfortable working out in a real exercise top instead of a regular t-shirt - they breathe better, fit better, stay in place etc.

For bottoms, I am heavy and hate having shorts ride up so I really like knee-length shorts that are fairly fitted. Nike Dri-Fit are my favorites and I have a Reebok pair that I also like as well. They are really flattering, comfortable, don't ride up and I don't feel like if I move in the wrong direction someone is getting an eyeful of my upper thigh LOL. Those are expensive though (maybe $45-$55 a pair). You can probably get something similar in Target that's on the long side. If you're doing strength training you'll be on the floor and want to be comfortable.

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L.M.

answers from Seattle on

Sports bra most important.. Hang dry no dryer. Ones with underwire are comfortable for our size.. I spend more money on a bra to stay comfortable. Dkny at nordstoms in bra section. Are so comfy and sportive. They are going on sale I believe July 5th. I like these because they last. They are sold by cup size and band size. No rubbing ect. Old navy has great capris or cute boot cut pants. I like Nike dry fit. And only buy them on sale. Also using tide made for workout clothes has helped my clothes last longer. Some are 3yrs old. Nordsrom has their half yearly sale starting soon. I buy my ascis shoes on sale. I wear plain white or grey shirts even gap or Nike dry fit. If u get blisters I learned my everyday socks were causing them. I bought under armor running socks at finish line with no seams. That helped so much. I always take a water bottle and a cliff bar in my gym bag. Have fun!
L.

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K.J.

answers from Los Angeles on

I'm a 36 DD and extremely active so comfort and support is very important to me when it comes to sports bras. Recently I tried the Champion Double Dry Sports bra with the closure in the back and really love it! Also, several times, I've found cute little capri workout pants at places like Walgreens and RiteAid for like $5 each! Once you've gone to the class a few times you'll get an idea of what others are wearing but at my gym in La Crescenta, people seem to just dress comfy in t-shirts, shorts or pants. Have fun with your new class!

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N.W.

answers from Eugene on

I found some cute workout clothes at Target, reasonably priced. They had sports bras, too. I usually look for something with cotton in the fiber content.

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M.L.

answers from Colorado Springs on

T-shirts and shorts are fine for the gym. Target is as good a place as any for finding them. Take a towel along with you (I use my old ones), and a water bottle.

I'd go with cross-training shoes at first. Once you're into your workouts, you may find that those shoes (and socks) will work well for you or that they won't. But by then you'll have a chance to ask other people what shoes they like and why. Athletic shoes have about a six-month exercise life.

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T.W.

answers from Syracuse on

Target C9 brand is really good but really all you need is a t-shirt and shorts to start out. The sports bra is important- I would try on several sports bras before making a purchase, you may want to splurge a bit on that so that you are comfortable and have needed support- Champion and Moving Comfort are two good brands. You could probably get a decent pair of sneakers at a place like Sports Authority or Dick's Sporting Goods, they often have sales...I would stick to buying sneakers made for either running or cross training. Do you have an old pair that you could wear to start out? I'd suggest just wearing an older pair and checking out what other people are wearing for sneakers, find out wear they bought them.

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T.J.

answers from Seattle on

I too get workout clothes at target, marshals, and TJ maxx. My favorite shoes are my reebok runtones, they help work your muscles even when you're just walking or running! They're not cheap but work it in my opinion. I got them at famous footwear for a pretty good price compared to some other places.

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J.S.

answers from New York on

Don't skimp on the workout bra. Cheap ones won't support you when moving esp bouncing- and it will hurt. So splurge on good ones, nike etc. THey also keep sweat from pooling there and making your boobs sweat. Pants and Shirts don't matter to me as much. Just as long as they are comfortable - I prefer stretchy so that when you're bent over the shirt doesn't fall and cover your face while doing yoga. Old navy has very affordable workout clothes, often on sale too.

1 mom found this helpful
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M.P.

answers from Portland on

Actually anything loose and comfortable is fine. I saw all sorts of wear at 24 Hour Fitness. I bought exercise specific clothes at Marshall's and Ross Dress for Less.

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