Feel Comfortable at the Gym

When you're working out at the gym, always wear clothes and shoes that are appropriate and comfortable.  Now if you're bigger than a size XL, finding suitable gym attire can be a challenge.  Although I'm a borderline XL (L/XL or XL/2XL depending on the style and cut), finding comfortable clothes wasn't easy at first.

When you start shopping for gym clothes (or general work out clothes), you'll begin to notice that these exercise specific types of clothes usually range from sizes XS to L (certain brands cater up to XL).  I've checked out garments from the obvious makers -- Nike, Adidas, Fila, Puma, Schwarzenbach, Reebok and the likes -- as well as more casual brands and must admit that although I managed to grab a couple of workout pants that fit me, the tops were way too tight (even XL).

Then there's the price factor involved.  Due to the technology put into the material for the garments, the prices aren't very wallet friendly if you're on a tight budget.  For instance, a pair of long gym pants from Nike costs RM179.90 while tops range anywhere from RM80-RM169 (and more).  So you've already spent cash on the gym membership (and for some engaging personal trainers as well), now you'll have to shell out more money for clothes?

And of course, don't forget gym appropriate shoes.  I would suggest getting training shoes which gives you the support you need to do indoor training be it on the machines or floor workouts.  These shoes however are not suitable for group X exercises.  For that, I would suggest lifestyle shoes.

Here's a little guideline for buying clothes for the gym based on my own experience so far.  Regardless your size, you'll definitely find clothes for your work outs:

• Look for material that does not trap heat.  It should be able to absorb sweat and allow the sweat to evaporate to allow your body to stay cool during your work out.  (Dry fit, Dry tech, etc and cotton are good choices).
• Make sure the tops are not too tight for you.  You want to still be able to perform proper breathing while working out.  Plus, tight tops are just uncomfortable to begin with.  If you're like me and are not as comfortable to show off your work in progress body or if you're just modest, cotton t-shirts a size bigger would do (having it a size bigger allows more air movement to keep cool and ensures the top doesn't cling to your body and restrict movement).
• Go for exercise pants with a certain percentage of lycra in it.  Lycra is comfortable and flexible enough to allow comfort and movement while working out.  If you're not comfortable with leg hugging pants, opt for track bottoms.  They are usually either single or double layered (with cotton lining).  Brands like Forest, Cheetah and Rev Sport offer various track bottoms at affordable prices.

Also, a few points to take note & gym tips:

• Bring a water bottle when working out.  You will be sweating a lot and having water on hand is always a good idea to replenish lost liquids.
• Don't forget a hand towel as well.  I assure you, you'll need it.
• Always, always wear socks with your sneakers/trainers to avoid blisters and sores.  The socks works as a barrier between your skin and the insides of your shoes.
• Bring your MP3 (or any other music player you own) with you packed with motivating songs or workout coaching audios to help with your workout.  You can try Googling workout songs and coaching audios or record your own.
• If you own a smart phone, download videos of your favorite shows to watch while doing your workout.  Some gyms offer free WiFi as well so you can catch up on your YouTube subscriptions.  Remember to make sure you don't fall off the equipment though when you're watching videos.  Safety first!

I think that's all for this post.  Til next post!  Stay healthy and safe.