Working Out In Style
By Susan Wagner
We all know how important it is to eat right and exercise regularly; the combination of 3 servings of dairy each day and three workouts a week will help maintain bone density as we age, which helps moms and families build stronger bones and better bodies. But I find that I'm typically squeezing my workouts into days that are already jam-packed with work and family commitments. I often go directly from a yoga class or power walk to carpool or the grocery store, because who has time to change? And inevitably when I'm running errands in my workout clothes, I run into someone I know--my son's teacher or my husband's boss or my mother-in-law's impeccably dressed best friend. Sound familiar? Fortunately, workout wear CAN be functional and stylish all at once.
The simplest way to make your entire workout wardrobe flexible is with yoga-inspired pieces, which can be worn for a variety of different exercise programs and can also double as lounge wear. Start with a great sports bra. Sports bras come in pretty colors and cool patterns, and can be worn on their own or layered under a tank or tee. Your breasts should fit completely inside the cups, without spilling over the top or out the sides. You should be able to swing your arms freely and move the way you would during exercise without your breasts bouncing around.
Next, look for sleeveless or short sleeved tops in lightweight cotton or fabrics designed to wick away moisture. Opt for a top with a slim cut, something that fits rather than hanging off you. A more fitted top is more flattering and easier to move in, no matter what your size. There are great workout tops available in longer lengths, if you don't want to leave your midsection exposed.
On the bottom, opt for slim, cropped pants (best for running or cross training), or a more traditional yoga pant, in a longer, wider fit (great for walkers, and, of course, for yoga). Again, look for lightweight cotton or blends that wick moisture, particularly if you live where it is very humid or hot. Steer clear of very short shorts or big, baggy shorts; both will ride up during your workout, which is both distracting and unflattering. Pants that fall between the top of your knee and the top of your ankle are the most versatile.
After your workout, toss on a colorful hoodie or jacket and pull your hair back with a chic headband. Now you're ready to run errands or take the kids to the park for an hour before dinner.
Having a functional workout wardrobe, composed of pieces that work beyond the gym or yoga studio, will keep you inspired to exercise. And being fit is always fashionable.
Susan Wagner is a writer, blogger, and freelance shoe shopper. She writes about fashion at Friday Style, BlogHer, and The Working Closet, and about everything else at Friday Playdate. Susan lives in Oklahoma City with her husband and their two sons.