Gym wear essentials

Pia Hatch suggests ways to stay cool and clean

What you wear at the gym really does matter. Your attire affects the quality of the workout, impacting even your general health and wellbeing.

Old sneakers provide less cushioning

COTTON ON While cotton may seem like the best option for the gym, research has shown that it’s also the most absorbent. It keeps you damp and prone to bacterial infections – so opt for sweat wicking fabrics instead.

SNEAK AROUND Old sneakers provide less cushioning; and they’re less shock-absorbent. While most need to be replaced after 300 miles or so an easier way to judge this is by checking the treads or design on the bottom of your sneakers. If they have worn away, you need replacements.

JIGGLE NIGGLES A supportive bra is an absolute must at the gym. Don’t wear regular bras or stretched and ill-fitting sports bras. Improper support could result in upper back or shoulder pain and also increase the chances of sagging eventually.

TIGHT PLIGHT Like to show off that rocking bod? Well, who can blame you? But while compression clothing is all very well, clothes that are a size too small or simply too tight are a very bad idea.

Tight pants can cause leg cramps while tight sports bras can even constrict your breathing.

BYE-BYE BAGGY Do you prefer to cover up with your largest T-shirt and baggiest pants? The problem is that this doesn’t allow your trainer to check your form when you exercise. He or she won’t know whether you’re doing an exercise properly or not and may not be able to prevent an injury.

‘SWEATIQUETTE’ Shower after you work out… or at least towel off, and change into dry clothes and undergarments. If you don’t, you run the risk of yeast infections and allergies. And what’s more, other people don’t need to know what your gym sweat smells like!