Any guy who works out regularly probably has a large collection of workout apparel. Some men stick to simple t-shirts and old sweatpants, while there are those who have a closet filled with expensive brand name workout gear. If you are spending several hours a week exercising, then your workout attire should be an extension of your personal style. You might have a simple and clean style, or favor wearing clothing in the same color range. Whatever style you choose, it should make exercising convenient. Here is the athletic man's ultimate guide to style, inside and outside of the gym.
What is Your Style?
Going to the gym doesn't require you to put on anything fancy. In fact, working out usually indicates that you will be wearing something comfortable, perhaps loose fitting, and made out of materials that will help you to maintain your temperature. However, you shouldn’t just be throwing on anything when you go to work out. A holey, old t-shirt says that you genuinely have no sense of style at all, and it doesn't reflect the fact that you are actually concerned about your health and fitness. You could be practical and still have a defined style, so make sure that you make somewhat of an effort when you get ready to sweat.
Preserving Your Individuality
If you just put anything on, then you are going to look like pretty much everyone dragging themselves into the gym. No, it isn't a fashion show, and you most certainly do not need to dress that way. However, you should wear athletic attire that will preserve your individuality. A silver dog tag necklace works well with any outfit, whether you are wearing athletic gear or dressed casually to go on a date. Look at the collection on Stephen David Leonard to find tasteful, masculine jewelry that you can wear in the gym, at the beach, and everywhere in between. This site offers a variety of customized jewelry for men that can work every day. Their rings, necklaces, and bracelets are eye-catching, yet subtle enough that you can wear it anywhere.
Fashion and Sweat Equity
When you wear athletic clothing, the point is to get in a really good workout. By the time you are done, you should be tired, sore, and at least just a little bit sweaty. Depending on what you wore and which workouts you performed, you could be dripping in sweat or just have a few areas that are drenched. Choose clothing that will hold up to your frequent sweaty workouts, yet still look good. Realize that clothing will change color, at least temporarily, as you perspire. So, think about whether you prefer to wear loose fitting t-shirts or more form fitting attire as you push your body on your next run.
Smartwatches and Similar Fitness Accessories
In addition to having a basic wardrobe of athletic gear that will enable you to exercise in all climates and accessories, you should also think about what accessories you want and need. Hats and visors can keep you cool in the sun, while fanny packs and arm cuffs can help keep your wallet and phone safe as you work out. Lots of people interested in fitness are wearing smartwatches to keep track of their vitals. In addition to looking sleek, they are functional and work in conjunction with other electronics. Wear a smartwatch on one wrist and a men’s cuff bracelet on the other to balance things out. Decide on what types of fitness accessories will look great and perform the best.
Keeping Things Simple
What you need to focus on is keeping things simple and light. You don't need to wear anything bulky that will weigh you down, of course unless you are working on strength training. In general, your workout shoes should be stylish but also aerodynamic enough to allow for quick movements. Consider all athletic attire based on simplicity so that your look comes off as being effortless. Special consideration to color, material, and the cut of the clothes you wear matters the most. For instance, you could find v-neck t-shirts to be much more flattering than regular t-shirts with circular necklines.
Work from Where You Are
You may already be a gym bunny looking for direction concerning fashion and style, or you could be preparing to work out outside of your home for the first time in years. Don't get caught up too much in how you look, and just start from where you are. Develop a basic wardrobe of workout attire, get comfortable in your own skin, and then worry about improving your accessory and clothing selection.
Working Out Indoors Vs. Outdoors
Before you get dressed for your next workout session, consider what the weather is going to be like. In addition, think about whether you will be in a gym that is climate controlled versus exercising out in the great outdoors. Even if you have checked the weather, you cannot always anticipate how your body is going to react. Exposure to the sun for long periods may cause you to sweat excessively, so you can wear a hat or carry a visor to help protect you. Working out indoors can also bring about similar challenges, particularly if you don't dress in a way that is comfortable for you.
Changing Things Up
Never be afraid to do the unexpected when it comes to workout attire. You could decide to throw out everything you own, and update your style as a reward for getting fitter, losing weight, or just becoming more mature. Men can sometimes feel like they have to dress a certain way in order to be respected or deemed attractive. They can also be especially sensitive in situations where they are wearing outfits that expose more skin than they are used to. Make changes to your wardrobe, change things up, and overcome these kinds of concerns. Not only will you surprise those closest to you, but you will surprise yourself with a boost in confidence.
Feeling Confident in What You Wear
Athletic apparel is first and foremost supposed to make you feel comfortable, even while you are pushing your body to the limit. Whether you're wearing thermal gear while running outdoors in the middle of the winter, or put on a thin tank top designed to wick away sweat at the apex of a hot summer day, your athletic wear should make you feel confident. No one is immune from body issues, which is why it can be a little unnerving to put on a pair of biking shorts for the first time. Beyond the structural design of athletic wear and accessories, the styles that you choose need to be complementary.
Getting ready to go and work out should be simple and easy. Once you have developed a great wardrobe, the perfect athletic apparel will be tucked away in your dresser or hanging up in your closet. You should have a collection of clothes that you can mix, match, and pair up to put on and take on your next intense workout session. Don't forget the accessories such as your smartwatch and baseball cap, so you can keep track of your fitness while also looking stylish. Once you get the wardrobe part down, actually working out will be the hard part.
