I can’t be the only one who needs a great outfit to keep them motivated for a workout? On a normal day, if I don’t love what I’m wearing then I never feel truly comfortable and at ease, and that’s no different when it comes to working out.
On the rare occasion I do hit the gym, I’ve noticed a few tribes among the women, and some of the most confident and at ease gals in there are wearing Lululemon. The Lululemon girlies look slick and prepared: the brand’s combination of fashion and function makes for a minimal, neat outfit and surely therefore a better likelihood of a successful workout?
You won’t be able to beat them, so join them. Lululemon is one of the more premium brands in the affordable activewear section, but the quality, technical aspect and longevity of its pieces speaks for itself. Hit Vinted and wait for its sales if it’s still out of your budget, but if you’re keen on investing in one or two pieces to help keep your workouts on track, here’s what’s worth buying.
The bottoms
If you only take away one piece of information from this, make it that the Align pants are *the* leggings to get on your shopping list. They’re the first pair I’ve tried that are designed for yoga but truly work for everything else. I have them in burgundy and black (the former were bought on Vinted – top tip), and I turn to them all the time.
The bras
Any gym-going gal knows that her workout is only as good as her sports bra. Scrimp on quality and support, and you can expect back and chest pain and an uncomfortable time all round. For those with bigger busts, Lululemon’s zip-front bras are properly sturdy and have lovely back details that make it feel interesting.
I’ve heard great things from my runner friends about the Run Times bra – thick straps and a wide back band make it super-supportive.
Read more on activewear:
- 6 affordable activewear brands for stylish workouts, from Gymshark to Adanola
- What you should really be wearing to Pilates, by an expert
- I tried M&S’ Goodmove range for 3 different workouts – and the results were interesting
- Every winter running outfit essential you need when it’s freezing outside
The tops
I’m guilty of shunning proper fitness tops and wearing one of my trusty Zara T-shirts instead, after all, how much difference could a simple top make to your workout? Turns out it’s a lot. The right tops will keep you both cool and warm depending on your activity, and will handily wick sweat away. I haven’t looked back since I invested in the Swiftly long-sleeved top.
The accessories
‘All the gear and no idea’ should be my gym nickname, but I’d argue the right accessories give me confidence in my fitness abilities and help me to feel the part. This mood-brightening gym bag will fit in even the teeniest of lockers and a chic refillable water bottle is a must for the planet and my spin class.
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